Gloucester by The Local Answer

The Local

ANSWER

GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S BIGGEST LOCAL MAGAZINE MAY 2022

GLOUCESTER WIN £1,000 FOR YOUR CHARITY OR CLUB – DETAILS INSIDE!

The Local

ANSWER

Gloucester: 50,000 copies Cheltenham: 43,000 copies Cotswolds: 30,000 copies North Gloucestershire: 20,000 copies Stroud District: 40,000 copies

Inside this month ... Delicious Dish Holidays & Travel TLA Distributors Required Mirror Mirror on the Wall Looking Good, Feeling Great TLA Leaflet Distribution Parenting & Guardianship Quick Crossword Money Matters Motoring Leader’s Life Sudoku What’s On TLA Charity Giveaway Homes & Gardens In the Garden Wildlife Matters Interior Design Gadgets & Gizmos Word Search TLA Sport Index, Competitions, Solutions

5 7 9 11 13 14 17 18 19 21 22 22 24 26-27 28 33 35 37 39 46 49 50

Unit H, Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7EG

Telephone 01242 510500 info@thelocalanswer.co.uk @thelocalanswer

www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

May’s winning cover photo: Dave Stening

Welcome to May We are so excited to announce our new TLA Charity Giveaway, through which we will be giving away an amazing £5,000 to five lucky Gloucestershire-based charities or not-for-profit organisations! Our giveaways have made a huge difference to previous winners so hopefully we’ll have the same result this time around. You can find full details of the giveaway inside. Both Julia Smith and Gill Greenwell share their tips for enjoying your outdoor space in their respective articles, while Laura Nicklin offers her gadget recommendations for all you foodies. Roberta Smart looks at the magic of music and how we should encourage our children to learn from a young age in her Parenting & Guardianship article. Meanwhile, Al Hidden takes us to the City of Love in his Holidays & Travel article, giving us a whistle-stop tour of ever-popular Paris.

If you use the services of any of our advertisers, please tell them you found them in The Local Answer!

Contacts MANAGING DIRECTOR Dave Kingscott dave@thelocalanswer.co.uk

MARKETING & EDITORIAL Lois Kingscott lois@thelocalanswer.co.uk

ACCOUNTS Rob Kingscott (01242 541071) accounts@thelocalanswer.co.uk

SALES

Amber Enright amber@thelocalanswer.co.uk

DISTRIBUTION Jamie Kirby distribution@thelocalanswer.co.uk ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: info@thelocalanswer.co.uk LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES: leaflets@thelocalanswer.co.uk Page 3

The Home of Real Ale and Great Food Traditional pub classics D G and a whole lot more! FRIENDLY SUNDAY SPECIAL 2 Courses for £13.50

Private Function Rooms AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

Choose either

Soup of the Day & Roast or Roast & Dessert Pork/Lamb/Beef/Nut

Every Sunday 12-5pm Booking advisable

We have two function rooms available daytime and evenings for occasional meetings, parties or regular club/group gatherings. With capacity to cater for 6-60 people, The Orange Room or The Long Room are excellent venues for private get-togethers with family, friends or colleagues. From simple snacks and refreshments to 3-course dinners, we provide a bespoke, personal service with flexibility to match your needs. Please call or email for more information ...

STEAK SPECIAL 2 Steaks & 2 Drinks or Bottle of House Wine

FOR ONLY £28! Fridays & Saturdays 5-9pm Booking advisable

The Fountain Inn, 53 Westgate Street Gloucester GL1 2NW • 01452 522562 thefountaininngloucester@gmail.com • www.thefountaininngloucester.com

Ren afLeé Pub

OPEN Mon-Sat 11am-11pm & Sun 11am-6pm• FOOD SERVED Mon-Thur 12-8pm, Fri-Sat 12-9pm & Sun 12-5pm

& Restaurant

Steak & Grillhouse

SPRING OFFER

FREE DESSERT! WITH ANY MAIN MEAL WITH THIS VOUCHER*

NOW OPEN

ALL DAY EVERY DAY

Café René are celebrating 19 years on the 19th May!

FOR FOOD!

ExcEpt Sunday night

Full Menu served 7 days a week Mon-Sat 12-9pm ~ Sun 12-5pm

Sunday roasts • Real Ales & Ciders

tel: 01452 309340 www.caferene.co.uk

Page 

*EXCLUDES SUNDAYS, SANDWICHES & LIGHT BITES. PRESENT THIS VOUCHER BEFORE ORDERING YOUR MEAL TO RECEIVE A FREE DESSERT WITH EACH MAIN MEAL. Valid until 31st May 2022

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Delicious Dish with Helen Kingscott

Creamy chicken pasta

Simple enough for an easy mid-week dinner, but elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party – this recipe is a winner all round. Serves 4

Ingredients: 1 finely chopped onion 4 chicken breasts 1 pack fresh pappardelle pasta 150ml chicken stock 300ml double cream 50g halved pitted black olives

50g drained and halved semidried tomatoes in olive oil 50g baby spinach

Method: 1 Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan and cook the finely chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft. 2 Cut the chicken into small pieces, add to the pan and cook on a medium heat for 810 minutes. 3 Add the chicken stock and

double cream, then cook gently until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir regularly so the sauce doesn’t split. 4 Add the olives, tomatoes and finally the baby spinach until just wilted. 5 Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the packet (usually around four minutes for fresh pasta) then drain and stir through the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper, and serve.

We care about the environment Precision Colour Printing Ltd (our printer) are proud to be a Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certiﬁcate holder, and The Local Answer is proud to have this publication printed on paper certiﬁed to FSC® standards which helps to protect the World’s forests. The Local Answer

To advertise call  

Fully-recyclable As well as the paper, the inks and varnishes used in producing The Local Answer are biodegradable. The process used by recycling companies to extract inks and coatings including UV varnishes from the paper render the paper suitable for pulping and recycling. Page 

The largest print marketing platform in the county just got bigger!

We now distribute over

50,000 magazines to homes and businesses across Gloucester

EVERY MONTH! The Local Answer is now delivered to over 183,000 homes and businesses every month – one of the best ways to get your messsage to the residents of Gloucestershire.

NOW COVERING TUFFLEY! Abbeydale • Abbeymead • Barnwood • Barton • Brockworth • Churchdown • City Centre Coopers Edge • Elmbridge • Hempsted Highnam • Hucclecote • Kingsholm • Kingsway • Linden Longford • Longlevens • Quedgeley • Tredworth • Tuffley • Upton St Leonards

Take advantage of our incredible distribution and book your advertising campaign now! Email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk for more details Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Holidays & Travel with Al Hidden

Under Parisian skies Day dawns over the 15th arrondissement like a Jean-Luc Godard movie scene. In our third-floor Rue Blomet apartment, early-morning traffic whispers amorously across the pleasant Sèvres-Lecourbe neighbourhood. Beyond open shutters, Eiffel’s tower peeps over grey rooftops. A glorious week awaits us… Call it the City of Light, Love or even the Grey City – November’s ‘ville grisâtre’ – ultra-cosmopolitan Paris keeps drawing us Brits. Whether by rail, air or by car via Le Shuttle, this eternally romantic capital is enticingly close.

Exploring by Metro and on foot We loved our stay, with Vaugirard and Sèvres-Lecourbe Metro stations nearby for getting around when not walking. What’s more, every boulangerie, charcuterie and Monoprix needed for Rachel Khooinspired ‘Little Paris Kitchen’ self-catering is on the doorstep. When not cooking, myriad local cafes and bistros provided all the coffee, croissants and The Local Answer

relaxing al fresco suppers we needed – Le Wallace on Place du Général Beuret was a particular favourite on several balmy evenings. The Eiffel Tower, the signature Paris landmark, is visible day and night – always strikingly lit up – from every street corner. Of course, you’ll climb The Arc de Triomphe, get your art fix at The Louvre and roam the Rive Gauche’s Latin Quarter too. Then there’s Notre-Dame, still closed post-fire, but due to reopen for 2024’s summer Olympics.

Wander up to Montmartre Wander up to Montmartre, the artists’ quarter; like so many Paris must-sees, it’s both a tourist cliché and unmissable. At one end of its cultural spectrum is the Moulin Rouge. At the other, Sacré-Cœur, with stunning cross-city views, is always a joy. For an alternative – decidedly petrol-headed – perspective, watch Claude Lelouch’s ‘C'était un rendezvous’ (1976) as the film director dashes cross-town to meet a To advertise call  

girlfriend on Sacré-Cœur’s steps while dawn breaks and church bells toll. Romantic Paris captured in a moment. Later, stroll the Seine’s famous banks and bridges and enjoy Promenade des Berges, an archipelago of floating gardens near the Musée d’Orsay. Don’t miss the adjacent Flame of Liberty, now an unofficial Princess Diana memorial above the Place de L’Alma tunnel. Where were you that fateful morning in 1997?

Delights for everyone From irresistible macaron shops and calming parks like Jardin du Luxembourg, to the inside-out brutalism of Centre Pompidou and chic Marais, Paris has delights for everyone. If you’ve visited, you’ll already know. If not, make that Charles Trenet, Édith Piaf, Françoise Hardy, Peter Sarstedt and Supreme NTM playlist to soundtrack your stay. Then catch the next Eurostar and enjoy ‘La Vie Parisienne’ in the footsteps of Hugo, Sartre, Jim Morrison – and Rachel Khoo! Page 

Distributors Required Immediately in Tuffley and to join our waiting list for Brockworth Please visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk/becomea-distributor.aspx Please do not call the office – our staff are very busy, so may not always be available to take your call. Each round is made up of 150-400 copies per month. The rate of pay is 6 pence/copy. Depending on property types, our current team of people average The Loca l between 100-150 copies/hour ANS WER (equivalent to £6-£9/hour). Magazines are delivered to Distributors’ homes towards the end of each month and we expect deliveries to be completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm. You must be 13+ years old, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically GLOUCESTER fit to perform the duties.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S BIGGEST LOCAL MAGAZINE MAY 2022

WIN £1,000 FOR YOUR CHARITY

The Local Answer

OR CLUB – DETAILS INSIDE!

To advertise call  

Page 

Specialists in bathroom design Walk in showers Wet rooms • Bathrooms Cloakrooms Tiles • Wall boards Full bathroom design service Choose from well-known brands in the comfort of your own home Contact Rex for a free home VAT visit to discuss your needs If you need to make changes to 07496 057281 your bathroom due to disability or a medical condition, we are 01453 884167 able to supply your bathroom rex@lifestylebathrooms.net VAT free, saving you 20%. www.lifestylebathrooms.net PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS

Save 20%

Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Mirror Mirror on the Wall with Val Starr

Wedding bells After so many cancellations and postponements owing to the pandemic, weddings are back in a ‘big’ way. Venues are fully booked, as are caterers, photographers, dress designers – everyone is trying to make up for lost time. Whatever the dress code, from the bride and groom to guests, most of us will want to dress up after so long being dressed down. Planning a wedding can be stressful, so here are a few tips that might help!

The dress and, most importantly, one that you feel confident in.

The bridal trend for 2022 is larger than life sleeves, which have filtered down from the catwalks, and many of these sleeves are detachable. Sweetheart necklines have always been a favourite look, but you will also see many square necklines that are often very flattering. Soft colours are also popular, meaning white isn’t the only option. When you are shopping or going for a fitting for the gown or planned ensemble, always bring the shoes you are planning to wear, as well as underwear, so you can ascertain what you need for the perfect look. Do not leave it until the last minute.

Lots of us are interested in sustainable fashion, and this can extend to our wedding gowns. Many can be incorporated into our wardrobe for future use, often with only small alterations. This means you can enjoy the item for more than just one day. Storage is very important so a professional dry clean after the big day is essential; but do read the cleaning instructions very carefully. You will need a suitable box and acid-free tissue to wrap the dress in. This will preserve it beautifully.

Veil or no veil

Makeup

According to top bridal designer Kate Halfpenny, a veil can make even the simplest of gowns look magical. As she points out, a veil gives you time to catch your breath when you arrive with all eyes on you. Veils come in many forms from really sheer to 3D appliqued, so find the one that you feel suits you

My advice is to experiment well in advance. If you are using a professional makeup artist it is imperative you try out the look you want them to achieve so there are no nasty surprises on the big day. Makeup looks change so much with what is in or out of fashion, but a classic, natural

The Local Answer

Storage

To advertise call  

look never goes out of style. When it comes to hair, don’t schedule any last-minute big haircuts that won’t allow you time to grow it out. Planning and timing is key for hair and make up trials.

Photography Selfies have made a lot of people more confident with posing, but when you are the star attraction it can be more nerve wracking. Every couple wants the perfect wedding day pictures and your photographer should be able to guide you on how to achieve them. A top photographer told me a good tip is not to look like you are posing at all – try to forget the photographer is even there. If you still feel tense he suggests whispering a private word or joke to your other half which makes you laugh, as only you know what has been whispered. Lo and behold, a natural personal shot will follow. Your wedding only lasts for one day, so the key is to make happy memories that will last a lifetime. Page 

Looking Good, Feeling Great with Will Mbanga

Fitness and wellness lifestyle In order to get the maximum “bang for buck” out of your health and fitness activity, there are a number of areas you need to target specifically to see ‘gains’. While I’m not here to tell you that you’re doing something wrong, wasting your time at the gym, or eating the wrong foods, there are some very clear elements that, taken together, will empower you to make the most of your fitness and wellness journey and see the results your efforts deserve. In this two-part series, I am going to focus on the combination of elements that will result in achieving successful fitness and wellness outcomes, so if you’re looking to get ‘in shape’ this year, pay attention! Whether you’re aiming to get bigger muscles, fitter or stronger for performance, or just into ‘good shape’ as a lifestyle choice, essentially what you’re saying on a physiological level is that you want to lose fat and build muscle. Now, while most of us don’t want big bulging muscles, building lean muscle is the surest way to achieving a lean, healthy physique and enabling wellness in an individual. The first pillar to work on in bringing about this goal is your nutrition.

Nutrition High-calorie, high-protein meals and snacks are essential for muscle growth. The best method of ensuring optimal protein intake for muscle growth and repair is to spread it out throughout the day, through both meals and snacks. The Local Answer

When it comes to building muscle, some people go for the quickest and easiest route, which is eating a lot of caloriedense, but not necessarily nutrient-rich, foods. A much healthier way to increase your caloric intake is eating ‘clean’, where the focus is on eating mostly whole, nutrient-dense foods. While we’re all unique in the way our bodies react to food, the following guidelines are helpful in working out our macro-nutrient intake amounts: • Carbohydrates: 45-60% • Protein: 30-35% • Fat: 15-30% (predominantly unsaturated fats such as plant oils, nuts, avocados, etc.) Additionally, high-calorie, highprotein snacks are important within one to two hours before and after a workout to fuel muscle growth and repair. In these busy times, preparing your food in advance can save you both money and time, while also maintaining your control over the ingredients and portion sizes of your meals. Meal prepping is a great way

to ensure you’re eating healthy, nutritious meals and can be a useful way of teaching children how to cook and eat healthy food.

Training While it might sound counterintuitive, regular, appropriate intensity exercise is one of the key habits that will enable you to build lean muscle and ensure your cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems are at an optimal state. There is no magic bullet – getting in shape isn’t difficult, but it does require effort and consistency. Like your diet, variety of exercise or training methods stimulates the muscles differently, reduces injury risk and minimises training plateaus, while keeping you from getting bored. Movement is key, so whether you lift weights, swim, cycle, run, walk, hike, climb, play sport or engage in Yoga, doing something you enjoy is the best way to ensure consistency and longevity in your fitness journey.

To advertise call  

Page 

SAINTBRIDGE HOUSE NURSING & RESIDENTIAL HOME

01452 300307

Leaﬂet Distribution Service • Delivering direct to over 169,000 properties every month • Targeted Delivery across our 500+ individual rounds • Hassle-free storage and delivery (we accept delivery of your leaﬂets direct from printing companies)

And with a maximum of 2 BOOK non-conﬂicting leaﬂets EARLY delivered with each copy of for this The Local Answer magazine, very popu service! lar you will receive fantastic exposure for your advertising.

For more details please email

leaﬂets@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Page 

Offering single en-suite bedrooms for up to 36 residents Tastefully decorated and homely Lovely patio and landscaped lawn area for residents to enjoy in the warmer weather ● Dedicated, caring and hardworking staff ● Exceptional hygiene standards ● Weekly unisex hairdresser. Chiropodist, dentist, physiotherapist and optician visits arranged ● Activities Co-ordinator with an ongoing programme of events to keep residents occupied and maintain both physical and mental well being. ● ●

189 Painswick Road, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL4 4QQ info@saintbridge-house.co.uk www.saintbridge-house.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Are you looking to sell or let your home?

Get in touch with YouR LocAL AwARd winninG estAte AGent todAY foR A FREE no oBLiGAtion PRoPeRtY APPRAisAL!

WHAT’S MORE – List a property with MoVe and we will donate £250 to a charity of your choice!* *Subject to Terms & Conditions

01452 597994 www.move.uk.net

New Dave and Darcy stor y coming this su m mer! Dave and Darcy’s next adventure is coming in summer 2022! The option to pre -order will be available soon – sign up to my newsletter via my website to be the first to know when . PLUS . . . new Dave and Darcy products will be coming later this year!

SAVE 10%!

£6 .99 each or pu rchase the bu nd le of four fo r on ly £24 .99!

Shop online at www.loiskingscottauthor.com Fun , engaging stories for ages3 -7 10% of profit donated to Cotswold RDA Activities and resources on my website Wholesale and school discounts available – please email lois@loiskingscottauthor.com

Follow Dave’s story on social media – @loiskingscottauthor

Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart

Making magic with music “If music be the food of love – play on.” William Shakespeare Nothing fills the heart quite like making music, and these days it can be so easy to learn an instrument and make your own music using online resources. Kids of all ages will benefit from spending time practising their instrument; creating their own songs on the piano or guitar, singing along to their favourite bands and imitating their idols. Any form of performance art is great for building resilience, commitment and skills, as well as being enjoyable as a pastime, but long gone are the days of playing boring scales endlessly or practising classical pieces for grading exams.

Find a teacher to suit you and your style These days you can access amazing tuition online – check out YouTube for an incredible array of music teachers to find one that suits you, your family and your preferred style of music.

The Local Answer

Why should the kids have all the fun? If you hanker to learn yourself, there is no better time to start, so why not make it a family affair? In my house, my partner plays guitar – self taught – with a band, and our son now loves to noodle on the acoustic to relax in the evening. He has even created some rather nice pieces for himself. I, however, am into my second year of studying the piano because I believe in the old adage – you are never too old to learn something new. There is nothing to beat the joy of playing with others, so getting together with other musicians, attending gigs, festivals, family events and parties and bringing the instruments out is such a great way to bond and feel truly connected to each other – and who knows you may have a future Ed Sheeran or Taylor Swift in the family! If your kids love technology they may prefer to To advertise call  

explore production and love nothing more than creating music using their laptop, mixing software and recording apps. So much modern music is made in a room at home these days, without anyone even touching an instrument, so there really is no barrier to creating soundscapes that you love, just for yourself if not for the mass market.

Percussion is always a winner for little ones To start the little ones off, percussion is always a winner; why not treat them to a ‘sound box’ filled with drums, shakers, rattles and bells, and give them the gift of music – I can guarantee you will see smiles for miles. For the crafters among you, why not make instruments out of household items such as sticks, nuts and seeds, or rice, and decorate as part of your indoor play activities? Making magic with music is so much fun, and you will never regret opening the door to your child and their musical world. Page 

Quick Crossword ACROSS 1 Suspect’s excuse 7 Flight industry 8 Skewered dish 10 Sleepy feeling 12 Ocean voyager 14 Wheedle 16 Actor, ... Sharif 17 Calmly 20 Counterfeit 23 Song of the Swiss 24 Sketching carbon 25 Bequeath DOWN 1 Lower leg joints 2 Necklace component

3 4 5 6 9 11 13 15 16 18 19 21 22

Affirm Paved terrace Missile’s strength For men or women Snap Twin-hulled boat Supplement, ... out Wet (weather) Place of business Daffodil hue Authoritative command Lend to Urban community

Promote your business in Gloucestershire’s largest magazine! © Lovatts Puzzles

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

Call 01242 510500 or email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk

UNWRAPPING THE MYSTERY OF CLOUD HOSTING We empower business owners and IT managers to transform their business with cloud technology CLOUD DESK Desktop as a service, remote access from anywhere. CLOUD WIFI MANAGEMENT Centrally manage single or multiple sites with corporate and guest access OFFICE 365 Unlock your email and files with Office 365 GOOGLE WORKSPACE Centrally Your local managed location for multi-user access solution to

t 0333 577 6060 e info@hooble.co.uk w hooble.co.uk

Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

everywhere!

The Local Answer

Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran

Wrong call Rishi?

Are you recruiting? Save money by promoting your vacancies in The Local Answer Other recruitment avenues can be costly, but The Local Answer can help you reach up to 183,000 homes and businesses across Gloucestershire for less. Promote your vacancies with a Full Page advertisement and reach 50,000 homes and businesses across Gloucester from only £680+VAT per month*.

Book your recruitment advertising campaign now! For more details please email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk *This rate is based on a 12-month booking. The rate for a one-off Full Page advertisement is £840+VAT. Half Page rates range from £400+VAT per month to £475+VAT for a one-off advertisement.

The Local Answer

Last month we looked at the hike in energy prices that came in at the start of April. Whilst we were digesting the impact of that, the Chancellor was delivering his ‘spring statement’, alongside another increase in interest rates and the highest rate of inflation for more than a decade. We were all hoping for a helping hand from Rishi, but did we get it? I fear not. The headline giveaway was an increase in the threshold at which we start to pay national insurance. The Chancellor says it will cost him £6 billion and it’s certainly a welcome measure. It will make lives easier in an accountant’s office for sure, but it doesn’t come in until July, by which time we will all have been paying the additional 1.25% levy that Rishi announced in November last year for three months. And that’s due to raise the Chancellor twice the amount every year that he’s giving away in his recent announcement. He had the chance to scrap the 1.25% levy before it kicked in. That would have helped us all – employers, businesses, investors, pensioners alike – but Rishi chose not to, insisting it was being ring-fenced for the NHS. Don’t insult us, Mr Chancellor, we know that’s going straight into your treasure chest.

No help for businesses The spring statement was much more notable for what it didn’t do than what it did. There was no help for businesses, who face spiralling energy costs in the way that households do, rising inflation, staff shortages and no more covid support, save for an extra £1,000 of employers’ NI. The hard-hit retail sector faces an increase in the VAT rate back to 20% at a time when we are hardly flocking back to shops and restaurants. A couple of months ago, the government announced it was removing the triple lock on state pension increases this April because they would have increased by an ‘unfairly high’ 8%. Inflation will go beyond that in the next couple of months, so all those relying on state pension income will be worse off in real terms. There was no help for those paying for childcare and student loan repayments were harder hit as a result of changes in what the Chancellor had in his printed statement but didn’t announce in the Commons. I don’t want your job, Rishi, but I think you’ve probably made the wrong call here.

To advertise call  

Page 

Shipton Golf Course A 9 hole pay & play course in the heart of the Cotswolds

Everyonewelcome! Open 7.30am ’til dusk weekdays & 7am ’til dusk weekends Friendly 9 hole golf course Hot food and snacks available all day

PAY & PLAY – NO NEED TO BOOK!

12,000 MILE/ANNUAL SERVICE with MOT is from inclusive of parts, labour and VAT 6,000/6 MONTHLY SERVICE with MOT is now from

MOT TEST ONLY £35!

Bacon roll and hot drink after your round until Only £4 with this advertisement! Valid 31/5/22 Available for corporate days, birthdays and special occasions

Tel: 01242 890237 www.shiptongolf.co.uk

☎

shiptongolf@tiscali.co.uk

✉

Shipton Golf Course Nr Frogmill, Shipton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 4HT

Page 

www.julianrogersautoservices.co.uk KINGSBARTON STREET, GLOUCESTER

01452 526778 or 308006

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Motoring with Toby Aiken

The right car at the right time I’m often asked what my dream car would be. I know for a lot of people this is a hard question, and having been lucky enough to drive some truly amazing cars, I always struggle to answer. There are so many strong contenders and I think it would end up as a toss-up between a Tesla Model S and a V8 Ford Mustang. Until a recent Friday night. And then my answer changed. My hockey team were celebrating the end of the winter league (we came eighth) and as the designated driver I was happily dropping some friends off at the end of the night, when my Mini hit a pothole or two and very rapidly developed a catastrophic flat.

‘A minor speed bump’ Usually that would be a minor The Local Answer

speed bump (see what I did there?) at most, but my Mini has a tyre re-inflation and repair system that sadly wasn’t able to deal with the situation. At this point it was past midnight and the prospect of calling a breakdown service who wouldn’t be able to take me anywhere to fit a new tyre didn’t appeal, so my friend kindly offered me her car to get me home and then deal with the tyre in the morning.

A 13-year-old Fiesta was my dream car Right then, in that moment, that 13-year-old Fiesta was my dream car. Yes it had some foibles that she had to take me through. The boot open alarm will go off but don’t worry, it’s a sensor issue. Sometimes you have to lock and unlock a few times for To advertise call  

the interior lights to go out and the front screen wash is somehow controlled by the rear screen wash, but right then, right there, it was perfect.

Comfortable, compact with lots of charm The Fiesta has always been a great car. My wife’s first car was a late 70s model and it had so much charm. The 2009 model is still great to drive, it handles well, and is comfortable, compact and yet spacious. So I want to thank my friend, in print, (and I know she gets this magazine) for her kindness! Driving back the next morning, it occurred to me that your dream car is allowed to change as often as you like, and that night, in that moment, my dream car was a 13-yearold, feisty Fiesta. Page 

Leaderʼs Life with Councillor Richard Cook

Climate change

Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

I have written previously on the subject of climate change and what the council is doing to try to mitigate the effects in the city. The Council has committed to be carbon neutral in all its activities by 2030 – only 8 years – so the changes will have to come ever faster. Readers will already be aware that we have planted 13,000 trees in the city in the latter part of this winter – more will come in future years. At the start of April the Council’s new partner – Ubico – commenced work to deliver waste and recycling collections and all the grounds and street maintenance. They introduced two new all electric vehicles to the fleet. By 2030 all the Council’s vehicles are planned to be electric. Last year, I wrote to the Treasury to point out how illogical it was to make new building VAT free, whilst VAT is charged on improving existing buildings. I was gratified to see that the Chancellor’s spring statement recognised that and has introduced some changes. Sixty percent of all the carbon cost in a building is produced during construction, so it makes sense to repurpose a building rather than demolish and rebuild.

The expansion of onshore wind energy Further to this, I have written to the Secretary of State to express my support for changes to the planning system that allow for the expansion of onshore wind energy. It offers the most cost-effective choice for new electricity in the UK – being cheaper than gas, nuclear, coal, and other renewables, in addition to reducing the carbon intensity of UK grid electricity. Onshore wind already generates enough clean power to meet the annual needs of more than 7.25 million homes a year and produced 9% of the UK’s power needs in 2017. Overall, the UK has installed over 12 gigawatts of onshore wind capacity, which supports jobs and local economic growth in areas such as Gloucestershire, which has potential for investment in renewable energy generation. The cumulative investment impact of the UK’s existing 1,500 operational onshore wind farms is over £35 billion, demonstrating the significant contribution that onshore wind can make to delivering low-cost, low-carbon energy. I would further note that the generation of ‘green hydrogen’ from surplus renewable energy also has the potential to assist with broader energy system decarbonisation and there are some plans for sites in Gloucester. email: richard.cook@gloucester.gov.uk

Page 

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

Promote your business in

50,000 magazines Call 01242 510500 or email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Book your recruitment advertising campaign now! Email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk for more details *This rate is based on a 12-month booking. The rate for a one-off Full Page advertisement is £840+VAT. Half Page rates range from £400+VAT per month to £475+VAT for a one-off advertisement.

Whatʼs On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit. 7-8 MAY HARVEY Since their mother’s death, Veta has lived with elder brother Elwood in the old mansion he inherited. She aspires to social acceptance and seeks a good marriage for her daughter, but Elwood’s behaviour is getting in the way. He drinks, plays cards, mixes with riff-raff, but worse than anything: his best friend is a six-foot white rabbit that nobody else can see. This charming comedy of psychiatric errors asks the question, just who is sane in an insane world? Various times. Tickets £8-£12. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. rosestheatre.org CIRENCESTER BOWLS CLUB OPEN DAYS You are welcome to try your hand at bowls. We are offering free taster sessions from 10.30 onwards. The Club is adjacent to the Brewery Car Park in the centre of Cirencester. For more information please visit www.cirencesterbowls.org.uk 10-14 MAY ‘AND THEN THERE WERE NONE’ BY AGATHA CHRISTIE Ten strangers are summoned to a remote island. All that the guests have in common is a wicked past they’re unwilling to reveal and a secret that will seal their fate… A performance by St. John’s Players at St. John’s Hall, Churchdown, GL3 2DB. 7.30pm. £10. Concessions £8. Box Office: 01452 713952. Bar. Car park. www.stjohnsplayers.org.uk

12 MAY KATHRYN ROBERTS & SEAN LAKEMAN This multi award-winning husband and wife duo exude timeless class with their exquisite brand of traditional and contemporary music. From early days in folk supergroup ‘Equation’ through to their most recent work, the evening promises a whistle-stop tour through their artistic journey. 6.30pm. £21.50£23.50. The Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. thesubrooms.co.uk 14 MAY BARNSLEY VILLAGE FESTIVAL 10.30am-5pm. 15 Open Gardens, stalls, BBQ, tea, coffee and cake, jazz band, Morris dancers, bell ringing, church choir. £10 in advance (Eventbrite.co.uk) or £12 on the day, includes car parking. Children under 14 free of charge. 15 MAY ROUNDHOUSE POETRY SLAM – GLOUCESTER HEAT One of the highlights from across the Roundhouse calendar, the competition offers young poets from across the UK the chance to compete for the coveted Roundhouse Poetry Slam champion title. 7pm. Tickets £5. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk 20 MAY JAY RAYNER: MY LAST SUPPER Imagine you are about to die. You have one meal left. What are you going to have? It’s the question award-winning restaurant critic, MasterChef judge

and writer Jay Rayner has been asked most often by audiences across the UK. It happened so often that he decided to investigate the concept of the last supper and why it intrigues us so. 6pm. Tickets £24. The Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. thesubrooms.co.uk 21 MAY CHARLTON KINGS CHORAL SOCIETY Vierne; Mass for choir and two organs; Carillon de Westminster; Rutter Psalmfest; Parry I was glad. Soloists Helen Wright (soprano), David Smith (tenor), Fiona Brown and Russell Burton (organs). Conductor: John Wright with the Regency Sinfonia. Saturday 21st May 2022 at 7.30pm. St Philip and St James’s Church, 60 Grafton Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL50 2DL. Tickets £18 (under 25s in full time education £10). 01242 510820. www.ckcsonline.org.uk 22 MAY AN AUDIENCE WITH MARK ‘BILLY’ BILLINGHAM TV’s most experienced, highest-ranking and most decorated SAS leader and sniper. Billy is a former SAS Sergeant Major Class 1 and Bodyguard to Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Sir Michael Caine and other stars. Hosted and produced by Endurance Running World Record Breaker and Bestselling Author Mark Llewhellin. There will also be a Q&A and a chance to meet Billy. 7.30pm. Tickets £24 (£22). 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. bacontheatre.co.uk

Promote your 2022 events! Promote your 2022 events in the county’s most widely-distributed magazine and reach up to 400,000* potential visitors! Advertise in print and receive a FREE equivalent listing on our website!

Event listing prices (per month) 40-word** listing: £30+VAT 65-word listing: £45+VAT 90-word listing: £55+VAT

Include a 3cm deep image with any of these options for an extra £30+VAT

Prices are per edition area – Cheltenham, Gloucester, Cotswolds, Stroud District or North Gloucestershire.

To promote your event, please email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk *Figure based on 2.2 readers per magazine with a total monthly circulation across Gloucestershire of 180,000 magazines. **The name and date of the event are included in the word limit (you can also include a description, timings, ticket prices, contact details, website address, etc.).

Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

1-8pm hosted by The Old Post Office. beckfordopenvillage.org.uk 5 JUNE CHELTENHAM MIND BODY SPIRIT WELLBEING SHOW By Deer Spirit Events. Over fifty fantastic exhibitors: 1-1 tarot, psychic, shamanic & clairvoyant readings, holistic therapies, self-help, crystals, jewellery, books, arts and crafts, healthy living products. Thirty talks and workshops, inside and out. Refreshments onsite. Sunday 5th June. 11-5pm. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL32 3JE. www.deerspirit.co.uk 1-3 JULY LINTON FESTIVAL

28 MAY THE CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN The show that Kingdom Come always wanted to do in the 70s is now possible with the latest developments in technology. Join us for a full evening of psychedelic individuality, ingenuity and madness. Featuring great musicians, iconic dance, stunning visuals, and sonic adventure, this is your chance to be part of the whole genuine psychedelic experience. 8pm. Tickets £31.50. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074. rosestheatre.org 4-5 JUNE BECKFORD JUBILEE OPEN VILLAGE Beautiful open gardens, church flower displays, teas and homemade cakes, champagne bar, barbecue (Saturday), hog roast (Sunday) and ice creams. Also plant sales, children’s quiz trail, classic cars, glassware, preserves, tombola, raffle and more! Entry £5 (U16 free). Dogs on leads welcome. Free parking. GL20 7AD. Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June 1-5pm, followed by family Jubilee celebrations. Platinum Party at the Pub on Saturday 5pm-late hosted by The Beckford Inn. The Big Jubilee Hog Roast on Sunday

Celebrating 20 years of great music and beer! Proceeds to local charities. Headliners include The Counterfeit

Stones, Walter Trout and One Night of Queen plus many more amazing international bands/artists. Tickets from £22. Camping available. Full lineup on website www.lintonfestival.org 15 JULY TAKE A CHANCE ON US

Put on your platform boots and funky suits or just a boa, and have a night of ABBA madness!! This is a fantastic live show that celebrates the music of ABBA through a fully live six piece band, voiceovers, costume changes, choreographed dance routines, and light show. Lots of audience participation and all the favourite ABBA Hits! 7.30pm. Tickets £20. 01242 258002. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, GL51 6EP. bacontheatre.co.uk

THE SELL OUT THEATRE SHOW

15th JULY 2022 COMING TO BACON THEATRE CHELTENHAM GL51 6EP FULL LIVE 6 PIECE TRIBUTE BAND BOX OFFICE 01242 258002 https://bacontheatre.ticketsolve.com/shows/873611741 FOR BOOKING & INFO W W W. TA K E A C H A N C E O N U S . C O M

The Local Answer

To advertise call  

Page 

We’re giving away

£5,000!

to five local charities or not-for-profit organisations Lots of people are feeling the pinch at the moment, including our local charities and not-for-profit organisations. With costs rising and donations from the public understandably slowing down, The Local Answer have decided to support the local community with a giveaway. We’ll be donating a grand total of £5,000 to be split between five Gloucestershire-based charities or not-for-profit organisations – and the lucky winners of our draw will get to choose which ones! So, whether you have a personal involvement

or just like to support a specific local charity, club, society, group, trust or association – provided it is, essentially, a non-profit making enterprise – you could help boost their funds by £1,000! Entries for the giveaway are on our website and the more times your charity or club’s name is submitted, the higher their chance of being drawn. So make sure you share this giveaway with friends, family, colleagues and neighbours to give your organisation the best chance of becoming a winner!

August 2022

The Local

ANSWER

Your charity, club or society One thousand pounds 01234

102030

£ 1,000 TLA

12345678

MEDICAL CHARITY ANIMAL CHARITY AGED CHARITY ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE SPORT & RECREATION CHARITY LIBRARY SCHOOL FOOD BANK VILLAGE HALL EDUCATION CHARITY HOSPICE DISABILITY CHARITY VISUAL OR HEARING IMPAIRMENT CHARITY SPORTS CLUB YOUTH CHARITY RESCUE SERVICES CHARITY TRUST BROWNIE GROUP SOCIAL ENTERPRISE PLAYGROUP ENVIRONMENTAL SCOUT GROUP CHARITY

It’s easy to enter our draw... For your chance to choose one of the five organisations that will benefit from this prize, please visit our website and enter online.

www.thelocalanswer.co.uk/competitions.aspx Closing date: Sunday 31st July 2022. In addition to our usual competition rules, by entering you agree to have your name and photograph featured in our September 2022 issue and online should you win. Only one entry per household accepted. The organisation must be based in Gloucestershire. The winner will be chosen at random (via a random number generator), but the more times an organisation’s name is submitted, the higher the chance it has of being drawn. Good luck! The list above is not an exhaustive list of charities or not-for-profit organisations – it is a guide for the types of organisations that can be nominated.

Homes & Gardens Free quotations ~ Free samples ~ Free brochures

B.E.RUDMAN DRIVEWAYS & GARDENS • Driveways • Patios • Resin • Fencing/Walls • Landscaping • Tarmac • Block Paving • Artificial Grass CALL TO ARRANGE A FREE ESTIMATE

RIGHT CHOICE

ROOFING & BUILDING

& Battening • Re-Felting Roof Re-Fits • Complete of Ridges, • Re-Pointing Chimneys & Walls Lead & Valleys • Renewed or Repaired Soffits, Fascias, • New Guttering & Cladding EPDM Rubber Roofs – • inc. Flat Roof Repairs Removal • Moss Dry-Verge and • Dry-Ridge Systems • Exterior Painting

20%

DISCOUNT

ON ALL NEW RO OFS & FLAT ROOFS TH IS MONTH!

FREE SCAFFOLDING – SO NO EXTRA COST! FOR A FREE QUOTE CALL US ON:

01452 345889 / 07922 069253

Drop Kerb Approved www.berudman.co.uk

rightchoiceroofingandbuilding@hotmail.com Thank You! www.rightchoiceroofingandbuilding.co.uk 68 Moor Street, Gloucester GL1 4NJ

Covering Gloucestershire

FULLY INSURED – ALL WORK GUARANTEED

LANDSCAPING DRIVEWAYS PATIOS

CPAVING G

07843 277723 ~ 01242 255043

Block Paving • Tarmac • Gravel Drainage • Kerbs • Steps • Paths Turfing • Fencing & Decking

NEW Resin Bound Driveways

r 99le ca £r7singrive fo d T&

ply

10% OFF ALL WORK BOOKED IN MAY 2022

5 YEAR GUARANTEE WITH ALL WORKS

FULLY INSURED Page 

FREE quotations

01242 801706 01452 341699

candgpavinguk@gmail.com

Guaranteed to beat any genuine quote

www.cg-paving.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

FREE

SCAFFOLDING!

• New roofs • Roof repairs • Flat roofs • GRP & Felt • EPDM rubber roof systems • Rotten timbers replaced • Felt & battening UP TO • Chimneys • Repointing • Rebedding • Lead work • External painting any orders in & much more May 2022

30% OFF

UPVC ROOFLINE PRODUCTS: • FASCIAS • BARGE & CLADDING BOARDS • SOFFITS • APEXES • GUTTERING & DOWNPIPES Roofs cleaned/demossed • Fungaseal treatments Guttering cleaned & cleared from as little as £30

T&CS APPLY

ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED • FULLY INSURED For a FREE QUOTATION please call:

07786 058696 / 01452 348487

Customers are entitled to a 14 day cooling off period

(Please dial area code)

or email mitchelldavishomecare@hotmail.com

47 Worcester Street, Gloucester GL1 3AW • www.homecareroofingbuilding.co.uk

JHD

ROOFING & BUILDING

UP TO 30% off all ranges of flat roof systems, UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering

Many local references available upon request Fully Insured ~ All work guaranteed We’ll beat any ‘like for like’ quotation! The Local Answer

• Roofing Repairs & Full Replacement • Slate & Tiled Roofs • Lead Work • Skylights • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • Gutter Replacement & Cleaning • Roof Cleaning • Chimney Repairs, Removals & Rebuild • Dry Verge Cops • Dry Ridge Copping

• Fully Insured • All Work Guaranteed • Professional & Reliable • Free Quotes • Free Roof Inspection

THANK YOU! & ALL KEY WORKERS

For a FREE ESTIMATE please call:

dial 01452 347643 (Please area code) 07879 370178

or email: jhdroofingandbuilding@gmail.com

To advertise call  

Page 

1st Choice

Aerial & Satellites

YOUR LOCAL RESIN BOUND DRIVEWAY SPECIALISTS BLOCK PAVING • PATIO SLABS • RESIN DRIVES TARMACADAM • NATURAL STONE • BRICK WALLS FENCING & TURFING • POWER WASHING

Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs

Waste clearance and recycling • House/ﬂat clearance • Garage/shed clearance • Garden waste • Builders waste • Jet washing • Lawn mowing

10% off with this advert

www.yestomess.com 07830 844932

Mark Hawkes

yestomess365@gmail.com

Tel: 01452 311511

www.nationwidepavingandresinltd.co.uk

WB Home Improvements FAMILY RUN BUSINESS ~ 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

Gloucester 01452 533924 Mobile 07712 201634

info@nationwidepavingandresinltd.co.uk Unit 810, Jupiter Court, Cheltenham Road East, Staverton GL2 9QW FREE ESTIMATES • ALL WORK GUARANTEED

All aspects of roofing – new installations, repairs, cleaning, chimney repointing, ridge tiles, gutters, fascias, soffits and flat roof work. Re-pointing and general brick work and garden wall replacement and repairs. NO JOB TOO SMALL – for a free ‘no obligation’ estimate please contact William ... PLEASE DIAL AREA CODE

01452 348760 • 07407 431751

wbhomeimprovements427@gmail.com www.wbhomeimprovements.co.uk

Conway House, 31 Worcester Street, Gloucester GL1 3AJ

& Sons Ltd

Paving & Tarmac Specialists Block Paving • Tarmac • Landscaping Fencing • Patios • Driveways Garden Walls

ALSO

Before

After

All our work is Guaranteed for 5 years! Guaranteed to beat any genuine quote

Resin Driveways, Patios & Paths

• Low Maintenance • Choice of Colours • Durable & Long Lasting • Weed Free • Porous for Drainage

• Reduces Puddles • Firm, attractive Surface • Can be applied over Existing Surface • Cost Effective

Rectory Fields, Rudford, Gloucestershire GL2 8DT – Company registration: 11415390

Tel: 01452 668005 / 01453 297010 / 01285 238089 / 01432 800559 / 01594 801075 All major debit and credit cards accepted.

Page 

www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

NICHE EXTERIORS CONSTRUCTION ALL EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE REPOINTING • CHIMNEYS RENDER & ROOF REPAIRS FASCIA & SOFFIT GARDEN WALLS EXTERNAL PAINTING

www.nicheexteriors.co.uk nicheexteriors@outlook.com 07305 066424/07305 088414

Cheltenham & Gloucester

All Work Fully Guaranteed • Specialise in EDM rubber roofs • New Roofs G.R.P Fibreglass • Certified CURE IT Installers • Roof Cleaning & Coating • Roof & Chimney Repairs • Slate Repairs • Dry Verges • Flat Roof Repairs • uPVC • Fascias, Soffits & Guttering • uPVC Repairs • Painting & Decorating

Redgrove Scaffolding LIMITED

01452 899903 07503 858963 www.a1roofing.uk

Cheltenham Rd East, Gloucester, GL3 1AE

ROOFING

EPS Support Trays • Dry Verge System • Dry Ridge New Roofs • Flat Roofs • Ridge Tiles Re-bedded UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering • Bird Stoppers Valleys • Leaky Roofs Repaired • Chimney Repairs Lead Work • All Re-pointing Work • New Porches Moss Removal & Treatment ALL OF OUR DRY RANGE IS FIT & FORGET FULLY INSURED • REGISTERED WASTE CARRIER ALL WORK COMES WITH CERTIFICATE OF GUARANTEE FREE QUOTES & 14 DAY COOLING OFF PERIOD

Call Dave on 07900 015764

FOR PROPERTIES LARGE & SMALL Let the experts professionally install safe scaffolding for all your decoration and maintenance work For a free no-obligation quote please call Mark or Connor on 07510 689007 or email redgrovescaffolding@gmail.com

Premier Paving, Driveway & Landscaping Services

Projects star t from just £895! Gloucester 01452 341881 Mobile 07723 955269 quotes@paverightcontractors.co.uk

www.paverightcontractors.co.uk BLOCK PAVING • TARMAC • GRAVEL • RESIN • PATIOS The Local Answer

To advertise call  

Page 

G GRANT FENCING & LANDSCAPING Domestic & Commercial Fencing Driveways • Patios • Turf Shed Bases • Gates ~ 40 years’ experience ~

01452 722548 07841 753082

ggrantfencing@outlook.com

Woodlands Landscapes All types of gardening work undertaken PATIOS•FENCING•TURFING For a FREE no obligation PRUNING•TOPPING•FELLING quote call: HEDGE CUTTING 01452 GARDEN CLEARANCES 899771 A family run business – we won’t be beaten on price! leewoodlands@hotmail.com

MC Gardens & Landscapes Creative Designs & Grounds Maintenance RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Fencing • Turfing Hedge Cutting • Planting Hard & Soft Landscaping We can also supply Trees & Plants

07919 837765

07787 400221 martincarter592@gmail.com

Rob Cockburn

Tree & Hedge Services • Take down, reductions, crown lifting & thinning, bracing FIREWOOD • Stump grinding • Tree and hedge planting • Hedge laying, trimming and reductions A LOAD • Site clearance & excavations

£60

ALL TREE WORK OPERATIONS UNDERTAKEN Fully NPTC Qualified and Insured m: 07787 578845 t: 01452 700388 e: rob.cockburn16@gmail.com

All Landscaping and Horticultural work undertaken • Tree Work • Garden Design • Garden Maintenance • Turfing • Lawn Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pond Work • Patios • Decking • Pergolas • Fencing • Sheds • Driveways Diploma in Horticulture ~ Established 1993

Free Quotes ~ Competitive Rates

01242 713800 / 07778 340485 www.markclifford-landscapes.co.uk

Keep up to date on social media!

• Landscape Design/Advice • Garden/Commercial Maintenance • Grass Cutting • Turfing • Artificial Grass • Fencing • Decking • Patios • Planting • Pruning PROFESSIONAL • TRAINED • COMMITTED

Call Garry on 07398 162908 or 01452 612379 www.gslandscapesolutions.co.uk

JOE & JAMIE

~ Established 25 years! ~

LANDSCAPING & GARDENING All garden work undertaken and guaranteed! Block Paving, Gravel Driveways & Patios laid and cleaned Tree Felling, Trimming & Hedge Pruning Turf supplied and laid ~ Lawns removed 10% OFF for OAPs Fencing & Retaining Walls built/repaired

No job too small or too large ~ All waste removed

@thelocalanswer Page 

For a FREE ‘no obligation’ estimate, call Joe or Jamie on

01452 500942 or 07724 159342

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

In the Garden with Julia Smith

Enjoy time outdoors this spring May is usually a lovely month, especially with the Bank Holidays – although don’t forget the Spring Bank holiday falls in early June this year to coincide with the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations! It seems a perfect time in the garden to enjoy BBQs and al fresco eating of all kinds. It is nice to have a well-cared-for patio area for sitting, which is kept swept and interesting with pots of seasonal flowers. Don’t forget to repair any broken or loose slabs which can be dangerous, especially to the elderly or young children running around.

Ensure your garden looks well-tended Even if your garden is a bit messy and weedy, the patio will lift it. If you have a lawn, keep it well cut and trim the edges – this also makes the garden look well-tended. It is the equivalent of vacuuming the carpet! As the weather should be milder now you will find

aphids starting to appear. They suck the sap from the tender young growth of plants and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can then cause sooty mould! Some also transmit viruses to the plants so they are a problem. You can squash them by hand if there are not too many, or some people use soapy water to squirt on them to knock them off. If you encourage beneficial insects such as ladybirds, lacewings or hoverflies into the garden they will help control the little beasts. Plant varieties of single flowers which these insects like as opposed to double flowers, and perhaps make insect boxes to help them overwinter. You can use biological controls in greenhouses but they are not suitable to use in the garden.

Runner beans add interest to borders One vegetable that I wouldn’t be without is runner beans. The Local Answer

To advertise call  

I tend to sow them in yoghurt pots and plant in their final position when they are about 10cm high. Make a wigwam of canes and keep them wellwatered. The flowers on the beans are actually quite pretty so can be put into a herbaceous border for height interest, as long as you can reach them to pick the beans! If you don’t have the time or patience to sow your own herbs, you can use the crowded plastic pots you buy in the supermarket. Carefully separate them and replant in fresh compost in small pots, two or three plants in each. Keep watered.

Trim your hedges Give box hedges and topiaries their first trim in early May – use sharp shears, or hedgetrimmers on long runs of hedging. Keep a look out for Box blight or the signs of the Box Moth caterpillar, both of which were a real problem last year. Page 

Master Sheds Each structure is custom built to your own requirements – perhaps to fit a corner of the garden or a difficult location.

01452 314011 07831 762644

www.mastersheds.co.uk Unit D, Sudmeadow Road, Hempsted, Gloucester GL2 5JA

Garden Sheds, Summerhouses, Home Offices, Garages, Workshops, Site Huts, Stables, Kennels, Aviaries, Pavilions or any large timber buildings!

APPLECRUSH CONSTRUCTION

Specialising in all aspects of groundwork

Rest assured

• Driveways • Patios • Footings • Drainage • Landscaping • Concrete floors/bases

FULLY INSURED & LICENSED ALL WORK GUARANTEED OPERATING WITHIN GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES PROFESSIONAL & FRIENDLY

Contact Matt for a free no obligation quote

07894 017253 applecrushconstruction@outlook.com

@applecrushconstruction

Applecrush Cottage, Aston Ingham Road, Kilcot, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1NR Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Wildlife Matters with Lois Kingscott

Baby boom From blossom and buds to the dawn chorus, spring is a wonderful time of year for new life and the promise of brighter, warmer days. You’ll likely have noticed baby lambs prancing around in the countryside, but which wildlife babies might we also spot at this time of year?

Mammals Otters are generally solitary creatures, only coming together to breed. While they mate all year round, most pups are born between May and August. They are dependent on their parents for more than a year and usually leave at about 15 months old. The roe deer is the most common native deer in the UK. Another species that tend to live solitary lives, their rutting (mating) season is in the summer, although the female delays implantation of the fertilised egg until the next January so that her babies are not born in the winter. She’ll give birth to two or three whitespotted fawns in May or June.

The Local Answer

Birds

Amphibians

Chiffchaffs are one of the UK’s smallest birds and are mostly green-brown in colour with dark legs and a pale stripe just above their eyes. They live in woodland and parks, but you may also spot them in your garden. They nest low to the ground in dense vegetation and lay five to six eggs in May or June, which hatch after about two weeks and fledge two weeks after that. Cuckoos are a sneaky species, as they trick other birds into raising their chicks. They mate in April and then lay a single egg in another bird’s nest, often after scaring it off so that it vacates the nest. After 11 or 12 days, the cuckoo chick hatches and pushes any other eggs out of the nest so that it gets the sole attention of the host parents. They leave the nest after about three weeks, but continue to be fed by their adoptive parents for another couple of weeks.

The smooth or common newt. is dark green or brown in colour with a vibrant orange, blackspotted underside, and can be found in ponds, bog gardens and marshes. They breed from February to June, with the female laying up to 300 eggs on aquatic plants. Once the larvae hatch, they metamorphose over 10 weeks into juvenile newts.

To advertise call  

Insects The peacock butterfly is one of the most recognisable butterflies, with its colourful eye-spots on its upper wings. They mate in spring and females lay eggs in batches of up to 500 at a time. The caterpillars hatch after a couple of weeks and spin a communal web that they live and feed in. As they grow, they live in the open and pupate alone, emerging as adults in July. Enjoy keeping an eye out for some of these species in your garden or local green space this spring. Page 

ELITE LOFT LADDERS

FEMALE DECORATOR Home Help Agency Ltd

Safe and easy access

LOFT LADDERS SUPPLIED & INSTALLED LOFT HATCHES ENLARGED 01452 412119 07972 777876

mark@eliteloftladders.co.uk www.eliteloftladders.co.uk

Helping you get home. Helping you at home. Helping you stay home. For those with Health Issues

WE OFFER HELP WITH

•Housework•Shopping •Laundry, changing bed linen & ironing •Attending medical appointments •Pension/benefit collection & general errands•Dog walking & pet care

07462 708232 or 07462 709160 Fully insured enquiries@yourwayhomehelp.co.uk and www.yourwayhomehelp.co.uk DBS checked

YOUR ELECTRIC COOKER OR OVEN NOT WORKING? EST 2004 l cal Tel: 07955 295360

For more information please visit the website @

www.fix-my-oven.co.uk

DIRTY COOKER OR OVEN? Tel: 01242 227067

www.ovenbusters-cheltenham.co.uk

Page 

All decorating needs met. No job too big or small. Friendly and professional work ethic with quality finishes every time. Cheltenham, Gloucester and surrounding areas. Telephone:

07891 194005 Email: michellepowell81@hotmail.com

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

25% Discount during May 2022 2-BED PROPERTIES WAS – FROM £180 NOW – FROM £135

3-BED PROPERTIES WAS – FROM £220 NOW – FROM £165

Call 01242 279590 or 07754 417650 www.cheltenhamregencycleaners.co.uk

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Interior Design with Gill Greenwell

It’s all about the garden We always know when spring is here and summer is on its way in my family – my son-inlaw decides to wear shorts every day and my husband brings out the garden furniture. During the pandemic we rediscovered our outside spaces, but after an English winter your garden furniture may need a bit of a refresh. Here are some ideas for creating a new look for your alfresco space.

An outdoor room If you’ve got the space, it’s a good idea to have separate areas for relaxing and entertaining. Create a comfortable outdoor living room; inject a laidback atmosphere with a lounge set or a corner sofa. Ever popular all-weather rattan or bamboo-effect sets are good choices for a classic-rustic feel. Add a coffee table and a statement chair – on-trend Egg chairs are featuring particularly strongly on Instagram (check out B&Q’s Apolima chair).

Patio pieces To make your patio summer party ready, you may be looking to invest in a new

Image: OKA

outdoor table and chairs. I am loving the latest rope effect dining sets – Barker and Stonehouse has a great selection at great prices. Create a contemporary look for your al fresco dining with colourful metal and woven designs. John Lewis’s Salsa range comes in bold Jolly Green or bright Two Tone Yellow, and Jennifer Newman’s splash stool comes in a variety of fun, bright colours.

Balcony chic Zhuzh up your balcony space with a charming French café style bistro set and transport yourself to Paris. There are some lovely options available from Habitat and OKA, perfect for early evening cocktails or breakfast outside on a sunny morning. For a more cost-effective option, check out foldable bistro sets available in a range of ontrend colours and add some cheerful planters.

Sustainable options Image: Habitat

The Local Answer

For that all important retro vibe, look no further than your local To advertise call  

charity shop, eBay or online auction houses. Search out unusual pieces with potential for upcycling. The latest vintage look is whimsical and fantastical faux bois, a pre-art deco style originating in 19th century France. If your existing furniture is a bit winter worn, it’s never been easier to upcycle using specialist garden paint. Most top brands have a range of colours to choose from. I particularly love Rustoleum’s soft chalky green Aloe, and it comes in an easy to use spray can.

Seasonal extras There are so many options now for dressing up your yearround entertaining space. A firepit is a must for keeping warm on those longer evenings. Add some comfort and sunny colour with zingy outdoor cushions (La Redoute has a great selection). I’m also a real fan of Weaver Green’s recycled plastic outdoor rugs. Now you can enjoy your outside space in style – just put your feet up, sip an Aperol spritz and dip into your summer read. Page 

QUALITY KITCHEN MAKEOVERS by simply replacing the doors and worktops

kit

UKFrom ma ’s the ke # ov 1 er ex

GET IN TOUCH TODAY TO START PLANNING YOUR NEW KITCHEN

rts

Before

● FROM

SIMPLE DOOR REPLACEMENTS TO COMPLETE FITTED KITCHENS

● FULLY

INSTALLED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS IN JUST A FEW DAYS

DO YOU DREAM OF A NEW KITCHEN?

● CHOOSE

FROM A LARGE SELECTION OF DOORS, WORKTOPS AND APPLIANCES

● 93

SHOWROOMS NATIONWIDE

CALL US NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

www.dreamdoors.co.uk Book now to visit our showroom at

01453 299344 18 High Street, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2NA

Gadgets & Gizmos with Laura Nicklin

Gadgets for gastronomes Did you know that 6th May is ‘International No Diet Day’? This useful fact popped up when I googled ‘events in May’ for some tech inspiration and it might be my new favourite holiday. Yes, technically this can apply to any day, but if there’s a day literally dedicated to it, then it’s certainly worth celebrating. So, here are some useful gizmos to help you get on board and satisfy those food cravings…

Electric Popcorn Maker With Bowl Lakeland: £29.99 What goes best with a movie? A gigantic tub of popcorn, of course! Whether you’re more of a salty connoisseur or prefer your popcorn sweet, this handy gadget from Lakeland will help you enjoy the classic cinema experience from home.

Make delicious fluffy popcorn in just a few minutes with this clever contraption. Simply fill the chamber with popcorn kernels and let it start popping! You don’t even need to use oil, as this popcorn maker only uses circulated hot air to craft your tasty treat, making it a The Local Answer

healthier alternative. Once it’s done, all you do is remove the bowl from the machine and you’re all set for movie night.

Tefal Toast ‘n’ Egg ‘n’ Beans 2 Slice Toaster Argos: £55 If you’re more of a breakfast foodie, this 2-for-1 gizmo is a solid choice. To save you time in the mornings, try out the Toast ‘n’ Egg ‘n’ Beans toaster to prep a perfect breakfast. As the name suggests, this gadget can toast your bread and cook your beans at the same time, meaning less cooking time and more eating time! And it also saves you time on washing up, thanks to its easy-to-clean dish. You could swap out the beans for egg if you fancy adding something different to your morning meal.

for dessert! This gizmo is equipped with programming that helps you make ice cream, milkshakes, sorbet or gelato. All that’s needed is to fill the included tub with ingredients and let them freeze overnight. Then, you let the dessert maker do the rest of the work as it gets churning. Choose from one of seven programs on the touchscreen menu to get started and look forward to your frozen dessert. This machine even comes with a guide for delicious recipes, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth. Bon appétit!

Ice Cream & Dessert Maker Currys: £199 If you’re anything like me, you’ll know that there is always room To advertise call  

Page 

Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Tel: 01452 522 422 enquiries@interiorneeds.co.uk

interior needs

Luxurious Curtains and Soft Furnishings

FREE

DESIGN VISIT

Interior shutters are becoming more and more popular timeless elegance. Good advice is essential, we can guide you through our many different options finding the shutter to suit your practical needs and style.

It’s a perfect time to brighten and enhance your home: from a lick of paint to a full home makeover, you can find what you need at Interior Needs.

10% Blinds & Awnings OFF ◆

throughout May

CURTAINS & FABRICS ◆ TRACKS & POLES ◆ INTERIOR SHUTTERS ◆ CONSERVATORY ROOF BLINDS ◆ BLINDS/PERFECT FIT BLINDS ◆ BAY WINDOW TREATMENTS ◆ LIGHTING ◆ WALLPAPER

GET READY FOR SUMMER Interior Needs are local leading experts in specialist window treatments such as conservatory roof blinds and shutters. From tricky bays to unsual shapes, “We’ve got it covered!”

CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPDATED IMAGES OF OUR WORK AND OUR WEEKLY PRIZE DRAWS! SHOWROOM OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Tues-Sat 10am-3pm Sun-Mon Closed Eastern Avenue, Gloucester GL4 3BU (Next to The Weavers Shop, opposite SMYTHS)

www.interiorneeds.co.uk

50,000 magazines CALL NOW!

01242 510500

GRP Electrical

LTD

Promote your business in

DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL

Getting your Garden ready for the SUMMER • Rewires • Fault ﬁnding • Showers • Inspection & testing • Distribution board upgrades FREE ESTIMATES, NO CALL OUT CHARGE

10% OFF EVERYTHING

for work booked and carried out before 31st May 2022

01452 690650 • 01242 649642 info@grpelectricalltd.co.uk

SP Plumbing & Maintenance Your friendly neighbourhood plumber. All plumbing undertaken. No job too small.

Contact Scott:

07496 309339 sp_plumbing22@hotmail.com

Domestic & Commerical Local, qualified and reliable electricians Electric Vehicle Chargepoints Rewires New circuits Consumer unit upgrades Inspection & testing Landlord certificates Please call to arrange a free estimate enquiries@byardelectrical.co.uk 01452

www.byardelectrical.co.uk 470444

• Boiler service £60+VAT • Landlord gas safety check £60+VAT • Boiler breakdowns and repairs • Boiler installations • General plumbing and plumbing maintenance

• Heating installations • Complete bathroom installations • Gas Safe and Oftec (oil) registered • Free no obligation quotations

01452 452002 • Office@gloucesterplumb.co.uk www.gloucesterplumb.co.uk

Leaﬂet Distribution • Delivering direct to over Service 169,000 properties every month • Targeted Delivery across our 500+ individual rounds • Hassle-free storage and delivery (we accept delivery of your leaﬂets direct from printing companies)

And with a maximum of 2 non-conﬂicting leaﬂets delivered with each copy of The Local Answer magazine, you will receive fantastic exposure for your advertising.

BOOK EARLY for this very popular service!

For more details email leaﬂets@thelocalanswer.co.uk Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

9 20 YE 13 AR ~2 S 02 2

QUEDGELEY CARPETS 01452 883113 www.quedgeleycarpets.co.uk

100s OF ROLLS IN STOCK WITH

HUGE DISCOUNTS Mention The Local Answer at poin of order and we will honour the t

WINTER 10% SALE DISCOUNT

WE ARE HERE

5 M

The Bumble Bee

Holiday Inn Express WA TE RW EL LS DR IVE

Police Custody Suites

IRE RSH Y STE AR CE BUL OU TA GL ONS C

• Carpets • Vinyls • Laminates • Luxury Vinyl Tiles • Engineered Wood • Rugs • Artificial Grass

STANLEY COURT

OSE EDISON CL

Y TELFORD WA

We stock:

TEL FO RD WA Y

Discount applies to stock item Discount does not apply to the s only. fitting.

A38

We don’t pride ourselves on being the biggest independent flooring shop in Gloucestershire, we pride ourselves on being the best. We believe the smallest things make the biggest impact. Firstly we focus on providing extraordinary customer service. For example, unlike our competitors our expert fitting team can – • Move your furniture • Remove your flooring • Uplift your flooring • Ease your doors … And even vacuum up if required before we leave! Selecting your flooring couldn’t be easier! Our salesmen do not work on commission, so we can ensure our customers are getting the right product for the right price. If you can’t get to the shop then don’t worry. We offer a free measuring, estimating and home selection service. Finally, reviews speak for themselves, check ours out … we are # above the rest!

GLO UCE STE R

Why choose Quedgeley Carpets...

Unit 1, Stanley Court, Telford Way, Quedgeley, Gloucester GL2 2AE info@quedgeleycarpets.co.uk

FLETCHER

STEVENS

LOCKSMITHS RECYCLING

Recently moved house? Got all the keys?

BE SECURE!

Domestic and Industrial Skips

GET NEW LOCKS FITTED

LITTLE WHITE VAN MAN Gloucestershire’s friendly, cost effective removals, collections, deliveries and house clearance service!

SAVE

Discounts for OAPs, students, NHS, emergency services

WITH THIS ADVERT

BIG VANS AVAILABLE

Great reviews on

PLEASE CALL BEN:

01452 898224 fletcherlocksmiths.com

07903 097465 info@youbettercallpaul.co.uk

BM SERVICES

ATTENTION!

Window, Door & Conservatory Repairs

Let us lighten your load!

A specialist repair service for windows, doors and conservatories.

Misted Glass Replacement Locks • Hinges • Handles • Seals

Stevens Recycling Ham Villa Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6NB

01242 522647/529397

stevensrecycling584@gmail.com

For free quotes and a reliable, friendly service: A member of Call: 07963 217998 Email: barrieminett@mail.com Web: www.bm-services-glos.co.uk VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES

Don’t replace the Frames ... just the Panes! Broken or Damaged Windows? Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks? Want the latest ‘A-rated’ energy saving glass? 10 year guarantee on new double glazing!

WINDOW REPAIR SERVICE Gutter, Fascia & Cladding Cleaning Service also available!

… we make saving money perfectly clear! Call Paul on or paul@mistytoclearglos.co.uk

01452 543158 Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

07530 940610 The Local Answer

Word Search R Y O P U Y F F V O S R F G L E H H N O P S E L

Y E K N O M R E D I P S O O R U U G C Y B N L Q

T Q T Z J I I S C U R R J U M R A W N C D P B R

O O C A U N E X U S F S T I R B G I H A P A B M

R O A M E U A A Y T E A D A T X D W N N Z G Y B

R D U K Y T X R R C N Q F S Q S A G X U Y A G K

A T D W E R N A M A L E H M K T E A M Y Z P G T

P J W W K H D A U A H Y I D U R I L W B K O P E

R R F W N N X A T R D A Q A E Y P L E Y J F C I

F F S I O M X M R N G I S D Q J N I W A H O N U

R L D S M S R K G N A R L T J D W R F F A X K F

S I I E L U Y P O Q A I S L C D E O F B E C R I

L O V S E R S F H V M G G R O E D G Y B O S K R

P U U E R C A T A R A N T U L A S N K L C D R P

K D W G R C A E I J Z I I D B X X N H Q V H A G

I W U V I P Y N A G O E V Y A F A P I S D Y I T

N S A C U B T D O L N K L Q G U I G G M R F N Y

Q A B U Q F N M Y P Q P Q C V R C U B K V P F L

I Q C U S O P M R P Y Q O E A Y N A N F M C O D

L C O U C D R A P O E L F N O G N O C V T C R I

R W I A O Z T C S S P M H S L O T H S Y F K E V

Q G N E U T C A E O J A H X E K H W A V F G S H

G A R E V Z M W J A G U A R T H H A Z Y R P T O

B O A C O N S T R I C T O R P C B G F V Q J H L

Rainforest AMAZON ANACONDA ARMADILLO BOA CONSTRICTOR CANOPY CONGO ENDANGERED GIANT ANTEATER

GORILLA HUMID INSECTS JAGUAR LEOPARD MACAW NATURE PARROT PIRANHA

POISON DART FROG RAINFOREST RIVER SLOTH SPIDER MONKEY SQUIRREL MONKEY TARANTULA TOUCAN

Installers of top quality windows, doors and conservatories. For a free no obligation quotation call

01242 511384 Showroom – Units 40 & 41, Space Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FL

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

To advertise call  

Page 

We now distribute over

50,000 magazines to homes and businesses across Gloucester

EVERY MONTH! The largest print marketing platform in the county just got bigger! The Local Answer is now delivered to over 183,000 homes and businesses every month – one of the best ways to get your messsage to the residents of Gloucestershire. NOW COVERING TUFFLEY! Abbeydale • Abbeymead • Barnwood • Barton • Brockworth Churchdown • City Centre • Coopers Edge • Elmbridge • Hempsted Highnam • Hucclecote • Kingsholm • Kingsway • Linden • Longford Longlevens • Quedgeley • Tredworth • Tuffley • Upton St Leonards

Take advantage of our incredible distribution and book your advertising campaign now! Email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk for more details

Sport with Roger Jackson

WANT TO SHARE YOUR SPORTING STORY ON OUR WEBSITE? Please email full details to sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Jack Whiting is ready to lead Hard-hitting opening batsman Jack Whiting will be leading from the front when he captains Gloucester Cricket Club this season. The 25-year-old replaces Tom Collinson, who stood down at the end of the last campaign, and he’s certainly relishing the challenge. “I was always a captain growing up,” he said. “I was captain at school and I was captain at youth level so I’ve got plenty of experience.” He’ll be able to call on the experience of Collinson, too, because he remains a big part of the club going forward and Whiting is certainly a big fan. “Tom took on the captaincy with the club in a very vulnerable situation,” he said. “In five years he has taken the club – not just the team – forward in leaps and bounds, and we now find the club in a much more promising position. He has dedicated so much time to the cause and everyone at the club is very grateful for all the hard work Tom has put in.” They are clearly big shoes to fill and Whiting readily admits that it’s “a big job” facing him at Gloucester, but he will captain the side with the same goforward approach that he adopts when he bats. “I like to think I’ll be an attacking captain,” he said. “I want to get my foot on the opposition’s throat, if you’ve got them under the cosh keep the pressure on. I will be aggressive.” And he will challenge his players too. “I’ve got a few ideas,” he said. “We need to be a bit more disciplined in every aspect. “Don’t give your wicket away when we’re batting and with the ball don’t bowl loose deliveries.

Opening batsman Jack Whiting will captain Gloucester this season

“Our behaviour on the pitch needs to improve too, we had a few issues last year.” Whiting clearly wants to set the right example and as an opening batsman he certainly gets the chance to set the tone for the innings. “I don’t like to leave a ball,” he said. “If it’s up there I go for it, I back myself to clear the field. I’m not afraid to give it a go from the first ball, I look to take advantage if it’s there to be hit because you don’t know when you are going to get another one.” And Whiting always likes to face the first ball of an innings. “It’s something I’ve always done, it means I can’t get run out without facing a ball,” he said with a laugh. Whiting believes that batting is Gloucester’s strength and his runs will again be needed if they are to improve on last season’s third place in the Gloucestershire Division of the West of England Premier League. He was the second highest runscorer in the division with an average in the early 40s and

he said: “I think our batting is really solid, we’ve got a good top five or six. “If we can all fire on the same cylinders we can score 250-plus each week, it all comes down to applying ourselves.” As well as Whiting, the likes of Scott Montgomery, Dave Hemmings and Dan Brabham will be key batsmen and Whiting says he can’t wait for the league campaign to get started. He’s very pleased that the club have recruited left-arm seamer Sam Winton from overseas saying: “I wanted someone to share the load with Tom Morris and Craig Collinson. Hopefully if we can get the runs on the board we can bowl sides out more regularly.” Whiting will obviously have a key role helping Winton to settle in. Mind you, that shouldn’t be too difficult because Winton is an Australian and Whiting’s job as a technical salesman is to sell sandpaper so there should be no shortage of banter! But while the aim of the game is obviously to enjoy it, Whiting is very serious about his cricket. He’s also a realist. It wasn’t so long ago that Gloucester were in Premier One, a time when they were rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest and best teams in the area. These days they are two divisions below that level and Whiting said: “I think there’s quite a lot of people with ambition at the club but it’s not an easy division to get out of.” Only one team go up – Corse and Staunton won the title from Cirencester last season – and Whiting, a former Newent School pupil, said: “I think we’re strong enough to compete this season.” Full story online.

For full articles and more stories visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk

Index of Advertisers EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS Take a Chance On Us VRXperience

25 25

FOOD & DRINK Cafe Rene The Fountain The Vanilla Pod Bakery

4 4 6

HEALTH & BEAUTY Atlantic Home Eyecare Fitness Superstore NHS Home First NHS Let’s Talk

9 12 10 9

INFORMATION Gloucestershire County Council 8

PROPERTY Move Property

SPORT Shipton Golf Course

Ovenbusters Regency Cleaners

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Byard Electrical GRP Electrical

34 10 51

GARDEN SERVICES

BUILDING SERVICES 31 34 28 28

31 36 29 29 30 30 31 31 31 28 30

G. Grant Landscaping GS Landscape Solutions Joe & Jamie Lawn Doc Mark Clifford Landscapes Master Sheds MC Gardens & Landscapes

Rob Cockburn Tree & Hedge 32 Woodlands Landscapes 32

HANDYMAN SERVICES Your Way Home Help

HEATING & PLUMBING Gloucester Plumbing 42 M.J. Harris Domestic Repairs 40 SP Plumbing & Maintenance 42

LOCKSMITHS

Misty to Clear

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CARE SERVICES Coate Water Care Saintbridge House

14 14

COMPUTER SERVICES Complex Systems Hooble

19 18

44 HOUSE CLEARANCE PAINTING & DECORATING Yes to Mess 30 Michelle Powell Decorator 36 MOTOR SERVICES 36 TV & AERIALS Approved Car Buying Centre 20

Fletcher Locksmiths

1st Choice Aerials

WINDOWS, DOORS & 42 CONSERVATORIES 42

FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors Dream Doors Interior Needs Quedgeley Carpets

BATHROOMS

A1 Roofing Applecrush Construction BE Rudman C&G Paving

CLEANING SERVICES

HOMES & GARDENS AHM Installations Lifestyle Bathrooms Severn Vale

Cheltenham & Gloucester Roofing Elite Loft Ladders Home Care Roofing JHD Roofing & Building Marshalls Driveways Nationwide Paving & Resin Niche Exteriors Paveright Contractors Redgrove Scaffolding Right Choice Roofing WB Home Improvements

36 38 41 43 32 32 32 32 32 34 32

Albany Windows BM Services C&L Windows Clearway Windows Glevum Windows

46 & 52 44 45 47 2

Julian Rogers Autoservices 20

PUBLISHING Lois Kingscott

REMOVAL SERVICES Little White Van Man

SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling

To promote your goods or services in The Local Answer, please call 01242 510500 or email info@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Puzzle Solutions R Y O P U Y F F V O S R F G L E H H N O P S E L

Y E K N O M R E D I P S O O R U U G C Y B N L Q

T Q T Z J I I S C U R R J U M R A W N C D P B R

O O C A U N E X U S F S T I R B G I H A P A B M

R O A M E U A A Y T E A D A T X D W N N Z G Y B

R D U K Y T X R R C N Q F S Q S A G X U Y A G K

A T D W E R N A M A L E H M K T E A M Y Z P G T

P J W W K H D A U A H Y I D U R I L W B K O P E

R R F W N N X A T R D A Q A E Y P L E Y J F C I

F F S I O M X M R N G I S D Q J N I W A H O N U

R L D S M S R K G N A R L T J D W R F F A X K F

S I I E L U Y P O Q A I S L C D E O F B E C R I

L O V S E R S F H V M G G R O E D G Y B O S K R

P U U E R C A T A R A N T U L A S N K L C D R P

K D W G R C A E I J Z I I D B X X N H Q V H A G

I W U V I P Y N A G O E V Y A F A P I S D Y I T

N S A C U B T D O L N K L Q G U I G G M R F N Y

Q A B U Q F N M Y P Q P Q C V R C U B K V P F L

I Q C U S O P M R P Y Q O E A Y N A N F M C O D

L C O U C D R A P O E L F N O G N O C V T C R I

R W I A O Z T C S S P M H S L O T H S Y F K E V

Q G N E U T C A E O J A H X E K H W A V F G S H

G A R E V Z M W J A G U A R T H H A Z Y R P T O

B O A C O N S T R I C T O R P C B G F V Q J H L

Competition Rules 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless stated. 7 Proof of posting is not regarded as

proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party. 11 One entry per household.

BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Tuesday 10th May 2022 Page 

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Gloucester

Articles inside

TLA Sport

Interior Design

Wildlife Matters

In the Garden

Money Matters

What’s On

Holidays & Travel

Parenting & Guardianship

TLA Distributors Required

Looking Good, Feeling Great

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

Motoring