N W WORCESTERSHIRE
JUNE 2017
issue 167
AIMING HIGHER, ACHIEVING MORE AT EVESHAM COLLEGE see page TEN for more information
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
WORCESTERSHIRE Now 2nd Floor, Richardson House, 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP Tel: 01905 723011 www.nowmagazines.co.uk
CONTENTS
ADVERTISE
Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk Michele Ford Tel: 01905 727902 michele@pw-media.co.uk
Editor
If you choose a wood floor for your lounge then you can be sure that what you are going to get is unique
Dawn Pardoe PW Media & Publishing Ltd dawn@pw-media.co.uk
DESIGN
Paul Blyth Amy Thomas
CONTRIBUTORS
Wendy Carter Glynis Dray Peter Garside Aspen Retirement CBSO Droitwich Food Festival House of Colour M. Leach Jewellers Taylor Wimpey Wychavon District Council Wyevale Garden Centres
COMPETITION WINNERS Restaurant Package For Two at Worcester Racecourse H. Dyson, Tibberton
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We take a look at the six key types of flooring for each room of your home.
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A Pair of Weekend Tickets to Nozstock D. Smith, Worcester A Pair of Tickets to The Royal Three Counties Show L. Botherton, Severn Stoke H. Robinson, Worcester J. Turner, Bromsgrove ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope. DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.
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June is the perfect time to spot some Orchids.
prepare your lawn for summer
36
Products that either protect us from the sun or help us look sunkissed!
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CONTENTS
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42
Trail Around Tardebigge
perfect father`s day gifts
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Salmon, New Potato Salad with an Asparagus & Herb Sauce
JUNE 2017
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ISSUE 167
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Care Homes: What are the options?
visiting DROITWICH spa
win with the WOOD NORTON
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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Win tickets to Camper Calling!
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HERE & NOW
Vale of Evesham Asparagus
wins protected status
C
elebrations are underway to mark the British Asparagus Festival - but
for local gras growers this year's
festivities are extra special. Last year, Vale of Evesham Asparagus was awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status - putting it amongst an elite group of delicacies including Champagne, Cognac and Parmesan. Revills Farm Shop, in Defford, near Pershore, sells PGI accredited Vale of Evesham asparagus grown at the first farm in the country to be awarded the status - G Wilson Revill & Son. It has taken five years to secure the status from the European Union and the team at Revills are thrilled with the achievement. Darren Hedges, shop manager, said: "This
is an excellent achievement for all the growers in the region. Some of the best
And, of course, shoppers can buy the PGI
with all the Regulations. Only growers who
asparagus in the world is grown here.
accredited asparagus to take home, with
have been checked to comply with these
bundles priced at just ÂŁ2.20.
regulations can say that their asparagus
"It's really nice that we can now say
has this status.
that we have this status. We can
The 15-year-old business runs tours
promote the region and it will bring
for visitors who can enjoy a talk in the
more people into the county."
Darren Hedges from Revills Farm Shop
asparagus fields, explore the farm shop,
and a group from The Asparagus Festival
and learn how to cook the vegetable.
organisers took a Minibus to Brussels
The delicious asparagus sold at Revills is grown outside and hand-cut during the natural season, which begins on St George's Day, April 23, and finishes on June 21.
microclimate combine to create the gras,
which
can
be
sampled at the shop's cafe in treats such as asparagus soup, salads and snacks.
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Festival which has been celebrating the Vale gras for 10 years with a host of traditional, annual events.
Perfect soil conditions and the Vale's unique-tasting
Revills also supports the British Asparagus
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
to meet local MEP's as a thank you for granting the Asparagus PGI status. The group presented the EU parliament with a traditional 100 round of asparagus, this was then given to the Head Chef at the
Only asparagus grown outdoors in the
EU kitchen. Darren and the Asparagus
Asparagus season St Georges day till
Festival organisers were treated to lunch
Midsummers
the
with relevant MEP's and had a guided tour
PGI Status we were checked by Trading
of the parliament building before taking
Standards to make sure that we complied
the minibus back to the Vale.
day
comes
under
Revills Farm Shop & Farmhouse Café
New Kitchen Now Open Treat yourself to homemade cakes and pastries, afternoon tea or a traditional English cream tea. • Breakfast • Seasonal Lunch Menu • Homegrown Asparagus Lunches
Bourne Road, Defford, Worcestershire, WR8 9BS
Tel: 01386 750466 www.revillsfarmshop.co.uk
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7
Hanbury WI Centenary Year 2017
H
anbury WI is celebrating its 100th
Royal Events and War Time Efforts to
Stanley and Mrs Powick and Mrs Poultney
Birthday this year being one of the
support the forces and local community.
and great thanks were due to them. A
oldest in the country established
We have been reading extracts from
cosy raffled by Mrs Pinches realised £1.1.9.
in 1917 with Lady Vernon of Hanbury Hall
these at our meetings and making them
It was won by Mrs Harry Rudge and the
as its first President. We believe in having
available for everyone to see. Every event
money given to the WI Fund.
fun, making friends and learning new
this year is being recorded in photos and
skills. We make sure that every meeting is
posted on our face-book page. Photos,
and singing kept us going until 9.45pm
interesting, inspiring and informative with
documents and our commemorative
this year’s centenary programme being
rags rugs made by our members will be
especially exciting.
on display at the Annual Council Meeting
Extract from Minutes
in October and we hope to share our
November 1940
rich history over the last ten decades
Thirty-Five
with members across Worcestershire
where there was a Ministry of Information
Federation of WI’s.
talk about ‘Spies and Their methods’.
We held a special
members’ Centenary Dinner on the 5th May at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre, the actual day our WI was founded. This was followed by a Centenary Meeting at Hanbury Hall on the 11th May where members re- created the original photo on the hallway stairs and enjoy a celebration
To give you a flavour of meetings in the early years here are two extracts;
Dancing
when we sang “God Save the King” and Jerusalem.
members
were
present,
It was extremely interesting and the lecturer warned his audience of the many different ways in which information
toast, buffet and Birthday Cake. In the
Minutes of the
may be given to the enemy by chance
autumn we are hosting a Centenary
January 12th 1928 Meeting
remarks. It was announced that the raffle
Group Meeting where Professor Maggie
Annual party, about 100 were present.
for the comforts Fund had made over £2
Mrs Bearcroft presided as Lady Georgina
and also that that the credit balance of
was ill and away from home. We were all
the Fruit Preservation Centre was over
World Wars.”
so disappointed that we could not have
£5, which was also being given to the
All of our meetings have been inspired
“should carry on (as) best we could”. We
by looking back through the minutes and
began with tea provided by Miss Betts
Michele Dunn
scrap books which map WI Anniversaries,
but managed in her absence by Mrs Alice
Hanbury WI President
Andrews from the University of Worcester will talk to us about “The WI in the two
her with us. But it was her wish that we
Comforts Fund.
Hospital pilot a success for Breast
Cancer Haven in Worcestershire
I
n March 2016, national breast cancer
specialises in complementary support –
outreach centres in North London hospitals.
support charity, Breast Cancer Haven
visitors receive up to five free therapies
A fifth centre is due to open in the West
(BCH), opened an outreach centre at
to help relieve the side-effects of breast
Midlands (Solihull) in October. The charity’s
the Worcestershire Royal Hospital as part
cancer treatment, including counselling,
support programme provides a unique
of a one-year pilot scheme. Following an
acupuncture, and nutritional advice.
model of care that is fully integrated with
extensive service evaluation, the centre –
hospital medical treatment.
which was the first to open on a hospital
In its first year – to the end of February
site – will continue to be offered by the
2017 – there have been almost 500
For further information about Breast
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust
supportive therapy sessions at the centre
Cancer Haven support services, please
due to overwhelming support from visitors.
from a total of 138 new service users.
visit www.breastcancerhaven.org.uk
Breast Cancer Haven has been offering
Breast Cancer Haven is a national charity
their supportive therapies just one day a
which provides free, one-to-one, emotional
week from the new, £1.8m Worcestershire
support and supportive therapies for people
Breast Unit. For each patient – as well
affected by breast cancer. It currently has
as an initial consultation with a Breast
four flagship centres in London, Hereford,
Cancer Haven breast care nurse who
Wessex (Hampshire) and Leeds, with three
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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Everyone’s talking ab
A
s a parent or relative of teenagers,
head of mechanics, is a good teacher
you know it can be difficult to find
and knows what he’s talking about.
something that will excite their
The teachers are all very helpful and I
interest or spark a passion in them. If
would definitely recommend Evesham
they’re looking for a new challenge after
College motor vehicle for all levels.”
GCSEs, it can be particularly important to find that something to give them a new direction and something to aim for. Evesham College, part of WCG, could be the change they’re looking for - it was for these students: After GCSEs, Rosie Driver chose Health and Social Care: “In the future I want to be a teacher in a primary school” says Rosie. The difference from school is very clear for her: “One of the best things about the College is the freedom and
Rosie Ricketts, who is on the same course, agrees: “What I like about the College is that it’s the complete opposite of a school; everything’s more your choice and you have a lot more independence.”
Engineering at Evesham: developing the future workforce
everyone’s really nice to each other.
Jordan Davies is learning every aspect
In a few short months, WCG will be
There aren’t any cliques.”
of motor vehicle mechanics: “Dave, the
launching a new Engineering Centre at
ED SHEERAN AND COLDPLAY SUPPORT NEW WORCESTERSHIRE CHARITY
T
wo of the world’s biggest music
signed the beautiful cream coloured
acts
new
Fender Squire Affinity Electric guitar.
The
The band have also donated VIP tickets,
help
with the winning bidder able to choose
children with life-limiting illnesses and
any date and location in their current
their families.
tour.
Ed Sheeran, who dominated the pop
The auction will also include many
charts and broke records around the
other celebrity and ‘money can’t buy’
world after releasing his album Divide,
items.
has got creative and painted a fun self-
Ball are £100, including a champagne
portrait for the charity, while Coldplay
reception, three-course meal and live
have donated a guitar signed by the
entertainment. Information on how to
whole band, along with VIP tickets to any
buy a ticket is on the charity website:
of their concerts.
TheAnnaWilkinsonMockingbirdTrus t.
are
supporting
Worcestershire
Mockingbird
Trust,
a
charity, which
will
Tickets
for
the
Mockingbird
The Mockingbird Trust Chris and Wendy Wilkinson from Ombersley, together with their daughters Jessica and Elizabeth, set up the Mockingbird Trust after their youngest daughter, Anna, died aged 16 of a brain tumour.
co.uk
The Anna Wilkinson Mockingbird Trust
the items at the charity’s official launch;
The Coldplay items are going to be
with
The Mockingbird Ball, which is taking
auctioned at the ball itself, while the Ed
families. It will focus on helping families in
place near Great Witley on June 24th or
Sheeran painting will be auctioned on-
Worcestershire and is named after Anna’s
by visiting the charity’s website.
line, with ball attendees also bidding on
favourite book.
Music fans will have the chance to bid for
The painting by Ed Sheeran and the Coldplay guitar will be at the ball to view. Ed Sheeran painted his fun self-portrait on canvas with the words ‘Feed Me’ across the top, while Coldplay have each
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
their phones and the auction ending during the ball. Bidding on the Ed Sheeran painting will begin in the middle of May. To find out more, including how to bid, visit the Mockingbird Trust website.
will arrange trips and events for children life-limiting
illnesses
and
their
More information, including how to buy tickets, sponsor or donate can be found on the charity’s website: TheAnnaWilkinsonMockingbirdTrust. co.uk
bout Evesham College Downhurst Engineering, has an excellent
Open Event
track record in training engineers at all
With a wide range of full-time courses and
levels and has over 300 engineering
apprenticeships on offer, why not come
students.
along to our Open Event on Thursday 29
With new and advanced engineering technology
companies
developing
facilities in the Evesham area, WCG’s
June, 5.30-8pm, and discover Evesham College for yourself. Book your place today at www.wcg.ac.uk
new Engineering Centre will provide the trained workforce needed locally. The investment is jointly funded by WCG and the Worcestershire LEP and it will focus on training mechanical engineers at levels 1, 2 and 3. The new engineering Evesham College to help meet the growing demand for trained workers in the area. WCG, which has strong apprenticeship programmes in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover, BT Fleet, Greenmech and
facilities will boast a fully equipped CAD suite including 3D design, a material science, meteorology and mechanical science laboratory as well as refurbished workshop facilities.
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Inspirational Achiever of the Year
Highlights Success in Worcester
L
ocal
business
Balmer a
has
winner
woman, been
in
the
Caroline
revealed
the Year, with 46% of the vote, she is a
as
deserving and clear winner. Hopefully
Inspirational
her
business
will
champion
further
Achiever category of Pitman Training’s
recognition
SuperAchievers
announced
Dementia care; Carloline will also receive
today, after hundreds of nominations
a cash prize of £500 from Pitman Training
from across the globe were submitted to
and a free distance learning training
the business Superbrand.
course from the wide-selection of courses
awards,
in
the
development
of
from Pitman Training Group, to help her
The local Worcester community got
progress in their business.
behind Caroline, as the public voting system was announced, resulting in a
Claire Barratt, who sat on the judges panel
category win in the International Awards.
of Pitman Training SuperAchievers said of Caroline “Without doubt Caroline is
Caroline was nominated in the annual
truly an Inspirational Achiever of the
awards after founding a dementia care
Year. Completing a degree, starting
service. After working in the care industry
and
for over 15 years and witnessing, how developed
to start working closely with the disease with view to helping others in her local community. Through her experiences, Caroline was driven to start her own business to provide the high level of service she feels those in need deserve, here began her business - Caremark. There were a number of challenges at the beginning of her journey. Of course the care industry is highly regulated so the first challenge was to register with the Care Quality Commission which would then allow her to provide specialist care services. Once registered a solid recruitment drive was put into action to recruit and train the new staff ready for a role caring for the vulnerable. Not only was she tackling the processes and legalities of setting up a new business, Caroline was also studying for a degree in Dementia Studies and of course Caroline and her husband still had the usual bills to pay throughout. Her husband fully supposed Caroline in her efforts and
husband has joined the business and now manages the recruitment side of things. They are delighted to see the difference their services make to the customer lives. As Caroline says herself “Often you only hear about the negatives in the care industry, but there are thousands of hard working carers out there every day doing an amazing job”. Happily, through hard work and determination, Caroline completed her degree within the first year of training achieving a 2:1. Caremark has now been trading for over 12 months and now handles over 60 customers and employs over 30 staff members. Plans are already underway for further business growth with hopes to be able to provide a further 40 jobs and expand further afield. As future plans progress Caroline hopes to involve herself with charity fundraising and further her interests in Dementia and become a Dementia Specialist Service. Caroline is delighted to receive the
a steady income.
accolade of Inspirational Achiever of
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
business,
– her determination to continue to Now the business is more established her
maintained his role as a Postman to retain
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own
involve herself in charity fundraising
Alzheimer’s
disease in later life, it spurred Caroline
her
employing 30 staff and ambition to
dementia can affect a family, whist her grandmother
building
achieve is outstanding”. Fellow
judge,
Jennifer
Corcoran
commented “Caroline is the definition of a true SuperAchiever! Over the course of a year she has completed a degree and set up a thriving business which is serving a real need in her community. Not only is she helping to provide care and companionship to people in their own homes but she is also providing employment to a team of 35 people. This is one lady who truly deserves to toot her own horn!” Pitman Training offers flexible, tailormade with in
courses one-on-one
subjects
and
qualifications
student
including
support
Office,
IT,
Administration, Finance and Business, which are recognised by employers. The teams also offer free career clinics and CVs advice. For more information see www.pitman-training.com
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13
WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR 2017
W
ychwood Festival has unveiled
Wychwood this year aims to bring out the
The question How Can Autistic People
it's extensive family programme
creative side of family life by running a
Help You? will be explored with fun
for 2017, featuring a host of
selection of amazing workshops. Festival
sessions explaining how the condition has
workshops, performances and talks. The
goers will have the chance to glamorise
already benefitted the world, alongside
offering includes everything from yoga,
their wellies during a Pimp My Hat and
this Cheltenham Poetry Festival bring
circus classes and dance workshops to
Wellies session or transform an old LP into
along singer song writer Chris Hemingway
multi sensory music sessions and much
a brilliant festival souvenir with Groovvy
to lead a lyric writing workshop.
more. Arts and crafts will also feature
Records. Salix Arts will also be on hand
heavily with Absolutely Clay, as well as
to show families how to weave willow
Muggins Pottery, Pimp My Hat & Wellies
and other techniques during their Willow
and Origami all appearing. The festival
Workshop.
not to mention Come and Sing workshops
Those looking to get a little bit physical
ones will also have the chance to explore
takes place on the stunning grounds of Cheltenham Racecourse, 2nd - 4th June.
will be able to join in with dance work
For the musical minded Ukulele lessons for all abilities will take place at the festival, for adults and Open Mic Session. The little languages through music, puppets and
Over the past 12 years Wychwood
shops including Belly Dancing, Swing
Festival has cemented itself as one of
Dance and the 80's favourite Shim
the country's favourite family friendly
Sham Dance. BBC 6 Music's resident
weekends. Welcoming all generations,
poet Murray Lachlan Young will provide
Weekend tickets start from £140 for
the festival has a packed programme year
an enlightening hour of merriment and
an adult, £70 10 - 15 year olds and
on year with timeless greats, upcoming
mayhem whilst Professor Elemental will
£27.50 for 5 - 9 year olds. All tickets
music, comedy, children's entertainment,
be running an interactive Rap Workshop
and more information is available from
food & drink and more.
for every age and ability.
www.wychwoodfestival.com.
Summer Concerts ¯
A French Affair
Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine. The Requiem especially is a favourite on BBC’s Desert Island Discs (chosen recently by Darcey Bussell,
A
Roald
Dahl
and
Kirsty Young). It radiates an soothing of
programme
beautiful
French
music might be just
astonishingly beautiful peace. There
are
also
gloriously
what you need this Summer.
beautiful pieces by modern
Performed by the acclaimed
composers: Poulenc, Duruflé,
Birmingham Bach Choir in the
and Pierre Villette as well as
calm of both Pershore Abbey
from the Renaissance period
(17 June) and Birmingham
by Mouton and Phinot (who
Cathedral (24 June).
was executed for being gay
The French are a nation of romantics programme
at
heart.
This
reflects
the
and whose music is so soulsearching). Tickets
in
advance
or
sensuality in their music with
on the door: £15 (£12.50
pieces spanning nearly 500
conc).
years. The most well-known
www.birmingham.bachchoir.com
and best-loved are by Fauré:
or tel: 07901 798442.
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
For
details
visit:
parachutes with the help of Multilingual, Multisensory Music Session.
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15
homestyle
If you choose a wood floor for your lounge then you can be sure that what you are going to get is unique
flooring a room by room guide There are several questions to consider when choosing your flooring, including: How big is the area? How often are you going to walk on
L
ooking at six key types of flooring, journeying through the home - carpet, wood, laminates, vinyl, LVTs (luxury vinyl tiles) and real stone or tiles.
the floor? Who is going to be walking on it?
Bedrooms
How many people are in the house? Have you
By far the most popular choice for the bedrooms is
got pets, such as dogs? Have you got young
carpet. The majority of bedrooms are carpeted because
children? Is your floor likely to get muddy? Will it stand the test of time? What is your budget?
of the softness, warmth and underfloor luxury that carpet provides. Carpet means comfort, which you need in a room that you are likely to be walking around in bare feet. It is also available in a wide range of colours to suit any bedroom – you aren't limited with carpet.
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
>>
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17
homestyle
Generally, you want a good quality
Kitchen
be expensive to fit and the sub floor
carpet in the master bedroom. It is
Patterned vinyl or LVTs are the two
must be completely flat.
the room you sleep in, the room you
great options for a kitchen. Real
spend each morning and night in. So,
stone or tiles are long lasting and
it is the room you most likely want a
easy to clean. Laminate is also an
bit of luxury in. The spare bedroom
option, but there are drawbacks.
is HDF/MDF backing. It is ideal for
Vinyl is a great option for your
is relatively scratch proof and requires
kitchen because it requires minimal
only a mop to keep it clean. The
maintenance. All that is required
downside is that if water gets to the
to keep vinyl clean is a mop. Vinyl
backing, such as washing machine
doesn't mind water, you can drop
leak, you will need to replace it.
on the other hand is the room that most people looking to economise can save money in. Of course, you may not choose to economise, as many people like to have the same carpet throughout the upstairs of their home. Not all bedrooms have carpets - it depends on your house and your circumstances. For example, you may feel that you want a particular floor to match the character of your house, or you or your family might have allergies or be badly asthmatic. If either of these scenarios applies then you could choose a wood, laminate, vinyl or LVT floor, all of which are very good for a bedroom. If you go down this route, you might want to consider underfloor heating, which should not be put under a solid
18
food on it and it will wipe clean, and it
Laminate is an option for a kitchen, but it has drawbacks. The product kitchens because it is easy to maintain,
is very hard wearing and robust.
If you want underfloor heating in your
Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) are designer
real stone and tiles and LVT.
floors. They have an incredible impact.
kitchen, this is possible with laminate,
People will walk in to your kitchen,
Lounge & Dining room
look at the floor and say "Wow!
The key factor when it comes to
That is gorgeous!" They are very low
choosing flooring for the lounge is
maintenance, only need a mop clean,
what kind of look and feel you are after.
and wear so well that after 25 or 30 years when maintained correctly they will still look like they were laid yesterday. The only downside can be the price because it is not an easy floor to fit. However, if the subfloor is in a good state then the price can be reasonable.
If you want softness and warmth then consider a carpet for your lounge. You should go for a high quality carpet, as the lounge is usually a key high traffic area of the home. If you want a hard floor for the lounge then laminate, wood floors
wood floor, but you can put under
Real stone or tiles are a great choice,
and LVTs are all fine. If you choose a
an engineered wood floor, laminate
infinate colours and patterns, easy
wood floor for your lounge then you
floor or LVT floor.
to clean and hard wearing. They can
can be sure that what you are going
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
>>
MALVERN CURTAINS
Malvern’s Leading Curtain Fabric Specialists
Clients have praised Ellen’s experience and advice, commenting that her ‘in home consultation service’ is ‘just what they were looking for’. From a varied selection of fabrics, clients can perfectly match colours to complement existing décor.
As a long established business, which she previously ran for 20 years from her Malvern shop, Ellen provides experience and uncompromising quality and Malvern Curtains’ clients have returned to see Ellen again and again.
Ellen will visit your home to help you choose your fabric, measure up and fit bespoke curtains, blinds and rails.
There is a wide range of competitively priced, high quality fabric to choose from suiting all budgets and personal choices. From black out curtains for a child’s bedroom to full length curtains for the living room; kitchen roller blind or Roman blind for a cloakroom - Malvern Curtains can create it all.
Changing your window dressing, either with curtains, blinds or adding a pelmet, can alter the whole look of a room, and Malvern Curtains offer a full service from start to finish.
CONTACT ELLEN NOW TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT T: 01684 561425 M: 07955 074813 E: malverncurtains@btconnect.com
www.malverncurtains.co.uk
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19
homestyle
to get is unique. Each plank of wood
that's the same as having it sanded off
going to sit in it and read on a sunny
is different. You also need to bear in
and sealed.
afternoon, or will it be a key living
mind that it is prone to movement, and whilst it is long lasting, it is also higher maintenance than many other finishes. Wooden floors scratch, and that is part of the charm, beauty, natural ambience and aging process of a wooden floor. Laminate is ideal for high traffic areas like the lounge because it is easy to maintain and easy to keep clean, just make sure you are buying a good quality floor. If you want underfloor heating in your lounge or dining room, you cannot have a solid wood floor, but you can have an engineered wood, laminate, real stone or tiles or LVT floor. Hall A wood floor is ideal for the hallway. This is because it has a fantastic impact on visitors when you open the front door and they see a lovely looking wood floor. However, if you choose to have a wood floor in the hall, get an outside
20
But there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the hallway – it really depends on the size and layout of your house. Wood, carpet, laminate, real stone or tiles and vinyl are all great options.
space? Is it a major thoroughfare – do you and your family use the door of the conservatory as the main entrance and exit to and from the house, or does the conservatory door remain locked most of the year round? Bear this in mind when choosing the type of flooring you
Landing & Stairs The majority of landings are carpet. In fact, the majority of upstairs areas, apart from wet areas, are carpet. This is because, as with the bedrooms, you are likely to be walking on the landing with bare feet. Carpet provides underfloor luxury, softness, warmth and comfort.
want for your conservatory. LVTs, carpets, vinyl, real stone and tiles and laminates are all fine for a conservatory. If you want underfloor heating in your conservatory, you cannot have a vinyl floor, but you can have any of the others. Bathroom and wet areas
Lots of people also choose carpets for
The three real options for a bathroom
the stairs for the same reason. When
or wet area are patterned vinyls, LVTs
selecting a carpet for the stairs and
and real stone and tiles. If you want
landing, make sure you choose a better
underfloor heating in your bathroom,
quality carpet, as this is a high traffic
you can have with LVT floor finishes
area, with people walking up and down
or real stone and tiles.
stairs several times on a daily basis.
This article is not intended to replace
doormat and an inside doormat, and
Conservatory
speaking to experts. Please speak to
make sure that people tread on those
Your choice of flooring for your
any of our local experts listed around
mats and not step over them, as if they
conservatory
this article to ensure you have a flooring
travel dirt and grit into your wood floor,
how you use the room. Are you only
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
really
depends
on
to exceed your expectations.
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21
homestyle
seven simple steps for summer lawn preparation If you're a part of the nearly 90 percent of the UK who believe it's important to have a well-maintained lawn, you and your back garden will appreciate these seven simple steps for tending to your natural turf lawn with minimal effort. Investing a little repair time in early spring and a small amount of maintenance time in summer will pay off with a lush lawn ready for all your summer activities. 1. Test your soil
small plugs of soil out of the ground, allowing increased
Good soil is one of the essentials of a healthy lawn.
movement of water, nutrients and oxygen. Aeration
A soil test is simple, inexpensive and provides
can also increase the soil contact with new seeds and
valuable information about current pH levels. Simple
promote new growth. You can rent an aerator or hire a
amendments like lime or sulfur can be added to
professional to do the work for you.
neutralise overly acidic or alkaline soil and help grass thrive. Find a soil test kit at a local garden store.
22
3. Seed The ideal lawn planting season is April through the mid-
2. Aerate
to-end of October, depending on where you live. Turf
Older or heavily trafficked lawns can suffer from soil
specialists at a garden store can help select the right seed
compaction. A core aerator with hollow tines will pull
for your area and usage, pointing you toward the seed
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
>>
T: 01905 358 384 - M: 07789 791 982 / 07970 636 827
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23
homestyle
You can plant lawn seed through to the mid-to-end of October
closest to existing grass or suggesting alternatives for
6. Fertilise naturally
problem areas. After seeding, water lightly but regularly,
Don't break your back trying to bag lawn clippings. If you
keeping the reseeded areas damp.
mow frequently (about once a week during the growing
4. Control weeds Healthy lawns essentially control weeds by squeezing them out. However, if crabgrass or dandelions invade, herbicides may help. Consult a garden specialist about which herbicide
third of the blade), you can leave the grass clippings on the lawn. They contain the same nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as commercial fertiliser.
is right for your lawn and how to use it. Applying a pre-
7. Mow to the right height
emergent herbicide in the spring before weed grass emerges
Wait until your grass is 3 inches tall before mowing
can reduce problems down the line. If you've applied seed,
and then cut it to 2 inches in height. By only trimming
keep in mind herbicides can kill it, so use a product that will
one-third of the blade length, you will avoid stressing
not affect new growth. For dandelions, digging them up is
the grass while leaving enough leaf to protect the roots
often effective, but a broadleaf herbicide may be applied.
from the sun - helping you create a low-maintenance,
5. Water as needed
drought-tolerant lawn.
On average, a lawn needs about 1 inch of water per
A lawn doesn't need constant pampering. Ongoing lawn
week, from rainfall or irrigation. Letting the lawn dry out
maintenance can be quick and easy, and the reward is
completely between waterings will encourage the grass
a beautiful, environmentally-friendly setting for outdoor
to grow stronger, deeper roots as it searches for water
activities of many kinds. So, fire up the grill, hang up the
deeper in the soil. Put a rain gauge on your porch to
hammock and get busy enjoying your personal great,
measure rainfall; skip the watering and save money if you
grassy outdoors.
receive 1 inch of rain in a week.
24
season) and don't remove too much height (only one-
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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25
homestyle
make the most of
your outdoor space With so many different looks available to make your outdoor space stand out, it can be difficult to choose the right one for you and your garden. Luckily Hayley Thornton, Head of Home and Leisure at Wyevale Garden Centres, is here with some top tips for her favourite styles.
Marlow bistro set £199, Cole & Bright 10 LED lightbulb string lights £20, Glass lantern £16.99, all available at Wyevale Garden Centres – all other product stylist’s own.
The Urban Courtyard
chosen a string of colourful lights
Finally – if your space is grassless,
With so many people living in
and teamed this with creative
or paved with unattractive slabs
urbanised areas in homes with
planting at different heights and a
then invest in some slate chips to
limited outdoor space. Here is some
statement tree in a pot (that you
inspirational advice on how to get the
can take with you when you move)
cover them up. The chips come in
perfect Urban Courtyard look.
to give the space greenery and
"You don’t need a large garden to
26
interest.
create an outdoor oasis, choose
Creating a statement wall is also
a small bistro set that doesn’t
another way to create interest in
dominate the space and set it
your small space – whether that’s
off by placing a few key products
by painting it a bold colour or
to sit alongside it. Here we’ve
training foliage up it.
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
a variety of rich colours that will instantly update the look of your space with minimal time or effort!"
>>
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27
homestyle
Atlanta 6 seater dining set [full set not shown] £1299, Outdoor cushion £9.99, Antique copper lantern £16.99, Metal tea light holder £6.99, Square glass candles £7.99, Classic blue tall egg pot £49.99, small pots from £9.99, all available at Wyevale Garden Centres – all other product stylist’s own.
Day to Night Tropical Dining
with
As the evenings start to get longer,
vibrant block colour wall with
we start to re-focus on our outdoor
lush foliage and bold flowers to
spaces as the perfect party and
transport your ordinary urban
dining spots. Here are a few top
garden to something from the
tips on how to update your outdoor
Mediterranean.
space with minimal effort so you’re garden party ready!
28
this
look.
Combine
a
Using a minimalistic dining set allows you to go wild with soft furnishings to replicate that highsummer Mediterranean feel. I love these jungle-inspired cushions to
Ambient lighting is a key aspect
bring another pop of colour to the
of outdoor living, but large bright
set – the more colour the better!”
“We don’t need tropical weather
lights can be too overpowering.
to recreate the ultimate al fresco
For this look I recommend sticking
dining experience; it’s all about
to simple table top lanterns and
the use of colour and accessories
candles in beautiful glass holders
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
to set off this intimate look.
>>
Made-to-Measure Curtains & Blinds Saphira by Romo
• Free consultation in your own home • Fitting service available • Extensive range of fabrics and accessories • On-line shop Opening Hours Wednesday - Friday: 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm | Sunday - Tuesday : Closed 2 Cowleys Way, Pershore, Worcester, WR10 1EY
Just off the High Street next to The New Inn Pub. Parking at the rear of Pershore Market
T: 01386 556 411 | M: 07527 047647 | E: enquiries@veragilesinteriors.co.uk
www.veragilesinteriors.com
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29
homestyle
Moreton casual dining set £1799 [whole set not shown], Outside In Eureka! BETA lantern £5, Pittsburgh industrial firepit £100, Blue zig-zag outdoor cushion £9.99, Blue heart outdoor cushion £9.99, plants shown from £8, planters shown from £49.99, White metal lantern with LED Candle £12.99, Rope tied glass lantern £11.99, Rope doorstop £11.99, all available at Wyevale Garden Centres – all other product stylist’s own.
Coastal Living More
and
more
people
are
embracing their gardens as the fifth room in their home. Here's how to bring the interiors outdoors and use soft furnishings to create a relaxed and liveable outdoor space. “This year outdoor furniture is all about casual dining and modular sets like this one, much more
30
and casual feel make these sets
A simple piece of fabric, dyed in a
the perfect centrepiece for an
colour that suits your space, will
outdoor living room.
create a beautiful texture and an
Accessories are key to this trend, choose plenty of cushions, paired
For more outdoor living ideas
with beautiful lanterns, candles
and
and soft lighting to make this space as comfortable and cosy as possible.
relaxed than their formal dining
Why not make a statement with
counterparts. The soft cushions
a canopy in your outdoor space?
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
intimate feeling.”
products
head
to
visit
www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk or your nearest Wyevale Garden Centre.
homestyle
Audley - Luxury retirement villages Everyone has a different vision of what their later life should look like. Some people want an exciting fresh start, whereas others might want to simply keep doing the things they love but with the reassurance that support is available if needed.
O
What’s important is finding a home that suits your needs and can adapt as your lifestyle does. ne option to ensure you can
6 Claverdon House, BINSWOOD
live whatever life you want is a
An elegantly designed fourth floor apartment set within the beautiful renovated art block.
retirement village. Audley works to
This spacious two bedroom home is equipped with luxury Villeroy & Boch bathrooms
create luxurious and aspirational
and a SieMatic kitchen, it also benefits from excellent storage space. £400,000
homes for those looking to downsize – not just as a place to live, but a place to enjoy. Located in the Malvern Hills, Audley Ellerslie offers 101 luxury one, two and three bed apartments and cottages for over 60s. Just a short drive away, in the heart of Leamington Spa, is Audley Binswood, home to a further 88 apartments.
27 Walton Court, BINSWOOD This very special two bedroom cottage is a true gem in the Audley Binswood village. The ground floor has a luxury SieMatic kitchen, shower room and living/dining room that leads out onto a private south-facing terrace. The first floor has two spacious bedrooms, with the master bedroom enjoying a double wardrobe and shower en-suite. £385,000 4 Kineton Hall, BINSWOOD A spacious ground floor apartment with a stylish kitchen and large living room which has a west-facing large feature window. This unique apartment sits within Kineton Hall,
Both villages have been transformed from Grade
a sympathetically renovated building nestled near the heart of the village. £299,995
II* listed Victorian Gothic mansions to create a
3 Southlands, Ellerslie
unique and luxurious place to live. Not only are there beautiful properties, the villages also offer
This spacious one bedroom apartment sits to the north-west of the Audley Ellerslie village with excellent access to the superb facilities of the main house and stunning
owners, and people from the local area, a chance to
views of the Malvern Hills. This beautifully renovated Grade II listed apartment has
enjoy luxury facilities at the Audley Club, including
high ceilings, period features and bay windows. £299,950
a restaurant, bar & bistro, library and health club. Sumptuous interiors and world-class service are typical of Audley’s luxury villages. With a portfolio of fifteen villages across the country, Audley’s
1 Southlands, Ellerslie Two bedroom apartment with a separate entrance and spacious terrace. Dual aspect living room over-looking the Worcestershire countryside. Situated in a Grade II* listed building with period features. £460,000
vision as the pioneer of luxury properties is
Cherbourg Cottage, Ellerslie
setting the bar high for retirement living.
This unique detached two bedroom duplex cottage enjoys a large open terrace on the lower
To find out more and book a private tour, call
ground floor, accessible from the master bedroom and second bedroom. The lower ground floor has an en suite shower room and a study that could be used as third bedroom. The
01926 258 080 for Audley Binswood and 01926
ground floor has a spacious living/dining room with a Juliette balcony and an adjoining kitchen
258 080 for Audley Ellerslie.
with space for a breakfast table. There is a further bathroom on this floor too. £625,000 @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk
31
homestyle
How to turn a Worcestershire fantasy into reality! For ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Lord of the Rings’ author JRR Tolkein, Worcestershire was the place that claimed his heart.
L
ook round rural Worcestershire today, and you
Kidderminster is just five miles away for a wider range of
can still see the pretty, comforting countryside
amenities including sports centres, pubs, restaurants,
– dotted with orchards and criss-crossed by
shops and supermarkets.
winding rural lanes and paths for peaceful walks,
with the beautiful Malvern Hills on the doorstep – that inspired the most famous fantasy fiction writer in the world.
riverside village of Ryall, located within half-a-mile of the buoyant little town of Upton-upon-Severn, where pleasure craft nuzzle in the flourishing marina. What’s
Better still, now is the right time to buy into
more, selected plots at this development include stamp
Worcestershire yourself, and turn a writer’s rural fantasy
duty paid and flooring throughout.
into your real-life home!
Upton's delightful old buildings are now occupied by
Leading local housebuilder Taylor Wimpey has four
attractive shops, inns and restaurants. The town’s lively
superb Worcestershire developments, all selling fast.
calendar includes Jazz, Folk, Blues and Water Festivals
The Elgar Park development has a fabulous selection of
all drawing crowds.
homes on the southern edge of the village of Kempsey,
Last but not least, Stour Valley in Kidderminster, offers fine
bordered by picturesque Worcestershire countryside.
town houses bordered by tranquil waterways. Integrated
Kempsey offers a host of local amenities, including
appliances and turf are included on all properties.
a village shop, a bakery and a day nursery. Historic
The charming development is within easy reach of
Worcester, with a huge array of shopping and leisure
Kidderminster town centre, where the regenerated
opportunities, is just five miles away.
Weavers Wharf heads up a high-quality shopping
Meanwhile,
32
Pennywell Walk and Pennywell Rise are in the quiet
Taylor
Wimpey’s
classy
Bowbrook
experience.
development offers great homes in the large, smart
Tolkein loved Worcestershire so much he turned it into
village of Hartlebury, home to a wealth of amenities,
The Shire, at the heart of his novels. Now is the time
including farm shops, a petrol station, pubs – and the
for you to buy into this idyllic lifestyle, and aspire to The
historic Hartlebury Castle.
Shire!
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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33
NATURE NOTEBOOK
Common Spotted Orchid © Dave Butler
orchids
Orchid. Just that word conjures up glamour and mystery – a plant-hunters delight or an exotic bloom. It’s not really that far off the truth, either.
U
ntil I started working for Worcestershire
verge nature reserves in Worcestershire, we don’t know
Wildlife
of many places where this is happening locally and
Trust,
I
was
under
the
misapprehension that orchids were all as rare as hen’s teeth. It’s not the case. As with
many things, some are very very rare indeed but some are relatively common in our beautiful county and June
would love to hear from you if you know of anywhere. To finish our triumvirate of orchids, I’ll introduce you to the common spotteds. Like the name suggests,
is the perfect time to spot them.
common spotted orchids are our most common UK
Worcestershire is home to around 20% of the flower-rich
ago, I was amazed to find them in along wide sunny
meadows that remain in the UK; we’ve lost an incredible 97% of meadows in the last 70 or so years. We’re a really important county for orchids. ‘Orchis’ means testicle and refers to the root tubers underground – one growing and one withering – and this led to concoctions of root tubers being used as aphrodisiacs in classical times. The
orchid and have black spots on the leaves. A few years rides of a couple of our woodland nature reserves (I was clearly very orchid-ignorant before my colleagues educated me). Common spotted orchids are found in woods, amongst scrub and along railway embankments as well as the more traditional meadows and grasslands.
interesting thing about orchids is that each species has a
Please bear in mind that if you head out to spot orchids
close symbiotic relationship with fungus; without certain
this June, they grow in very sensitive areas...and we all
fungal mycorrhizals on their roots, they just won’t grow.
tend to have quite large feet. Please stick to paths and
By now green-veined orchids are almost be over but
trample as little as you can.
they’ve been looking fantastic throughout May (they
Visit
www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk
arrived a little early this year). They get their English
information or join our events to help you on your way
name from the ‘hood’ of each flower, which appear lined
www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on
with green veins. Morio, from their Latin name, Orchis morio, means fool and refers to the jester-like motley of its flowers. Rather handily, you’ll find that many orchids
for
Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust
have names that help to describe their looks! Pyramidal orchids mostly grow on old well-drained grassland usually on limy soils where they are most
Keep up to date with us...
specific fungus in order to grow, they do appear on
• on Twitter @WorcsWT
towpaths and more. Aside from designated roadside
34
MORE INFORMATION
abundant. Rather amazingly, given that they need a suitable soils on motorway verges, roundabouts, canal
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
more
• on Facebook worcestershirewildlifetrust • our events www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on
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35
BEAUTIFUL
BEACH BODY BEAUTIFUL Sunshine or no sunshine, we all love to look bronzed! Here are a few of our favourite products that either protect us from the sun or help us look sunkissed!
CLINIQUE
CLARINS
ESTEE LAUDER
Gentle 100% mineral
Limited Edition Bronzing and Blush Compact.
Buff. Polish. Glow. This luxurious scrub
sunscreen is incredibly
Embossed with a botanical palm motif, this
with mineral-rich salt crystals gently
comfortable, even for
beautiful palette warms your complexion
smooths and exfoliates for sensual,
sensitive skins. Lightweight
with the blend of three matte bronze shades
luminous skin. Decadent oils help soften
formula glides on easily,
and an iridescent coral blush.Inspired by
and nourish with the seductive, sun-
absorbs quickly for non-
the setting sun, this harmony of shades
kissed Bronze Goddess Eau Fraîche
irritating broad spectrum
complements all skin tones whilst the formula
fragrance.
defense. Invisible Shield
cares for the skin and gives luminosity to the
Technology forms a
complexion. Containing Clarins’ Anti-Pollution
protective veil that’s
Complex,LightOptimizing+Complex and
virtually invisible on all
Micropatch Vegetal to maintain skin’s natural
skin tones. Oil-free.
hydration, with one sweep of this powder your skin will be protected and appear radiant.
£25.00
36
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
£30.00
£34.00
CHANEL
CLINIQUE
CLARINS
Les Beiges Healthy Glow Gel Touch Foundation
Tinted lotion gives you
After Sun Moisturizer
SPF 25 / PA +++ is an innovative gel foundation
instant colour, golden
Self Tanning. The perfect
that reveals a complexion glowing with
“tan” develops in just a
post-sun two-in-one. The
freshness and radiance. Its dewy finish revives
few hours. Looks smooth,
same surprisingly fresh-
the skin at any time of day. Its ultra-fine, fresh
even, natural. Self-tanning
feeling, creamy body balm
aqua-gel texture provides buildable coverage
plus: No surprises-it
to deeply replenish and
on either bare skin or over existing makeup
shows where it goes.
soothe, but this one also
for any touch-ups. For extra convenience, its
Oil free, non-acnegenic.
intensifies your natural tan
flexible fabric screen releases the perfect dose.
Dermatologist tested.
with a touch of self-tan.
£43.00
Oil-free.
£18.50
£21.00
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Stockist Details: Clinique - www.clinique.co.uk. Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Estee Lauder - 0870 034 2566 - www.esteelauder.co.uk. Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.
BEAUTIFUL
37
BEAUTiful
top tips for
busy mums Having children is one of the most positive, life-changing moments of our lives. It’s also one of the most challenging. They demand bags of energy, lots of time and a complete shift in focus. As a mother, it’s easy to let your own identity disappear into the background.
B
ut here’s the thing... If you put yourself back
The life-saving pashmina
onto the agenda then your loved ones will
At the moment, you probably don’t have time for
benefit. They’ll gain from your confidence. Easy
make-up – not even the 90-second routine. Let’s face
to say, less easy (if not impossible) to do when
it, brushing your hair can sometimes feel like a luxury.
you’re a frazzled mum? Here are some tips and ideas:
38
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
This is when the pashmina comes to your rescue.
>>
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39
BEAUTiful
Throw on a pashmina or scarf in one of your `wow’
jeans may not zip up. Don’t beat yourself up, it’s
colours. Your skin will look bright and fresh – even
normal.
when you’ve had zero sleep – and if you’ve chosen to breastfeed, it can double as a cover-up when you’re out and about.
If you can invest in a new pair of jeans. They’re easy to wash, easy to wear and they’ll last for years. Go for the best possible fit in a colour that’s right for
Don’t fade to grey
your season and they’ll work with anything in your
Children’s clothes are chock full of colour, personality
wardrobe – warm and dark for Autumns, cool and
and all-round cuteness. It’s tempting to invest in them,
deep for Winters, bright and blue for Springs, soft and
and lose yourself in grey. Accessories are the easiest
cool for Summers.
way to bring back your naturally colourful self.
Don’t forget, these are small steps and not a
OK, we hear you. Earrings and necklaces stay on for
revolution. A beautifully coloured pashmina, a couple
a nanosecond with a small curious baby who loves
of accessories... something that makes you smile.
sparkly things. How about a bag? A really big colourful
Once you start feeling confidently `you’ again, your
bag with lots of pockets. You get a practical way to
family will reap the benefits.
carry all that stuff - wet wipes, tissues, toys, nappies, a change of clothes, snacks... But most importantly, you get to express your individuality. Get comfortable in your skin... and your jeans Your body shape has changed. Even if you’ve fought like hell to get back to your pre-pregnancy size, those
40
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
MORE INFORMATION Colour Analysts & Personal Style Consultants jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk charlotte.scriven@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk
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41
FATHER`s DAY
For your Father’s Day gifts
look no further than M. Leach Jewellers Based on Worcester Road, Link Top, Malvern, they have a great range of jewellery, gifts, trophies clocks and watches.
O
wner Mike Leach said customers can
manufacturers who only deal with independent
currently take advantage of some very
jewellers so we have something different to the
good deals on Seiko watches as they are
high street & the prices are very competitive.”
offering up to £50 discount on current
retail prices. The shop is a registered Seiko elite dealer and stocks the whole of the company’s range from every day wear to sports watches, including a large
years, servicing and refurbishing watches, clocks and jewellery. Mr Leach, a qualified horologist (a watch and
range of Seiko’s latest solar-powered watches. The
clock repairer), offers a personal service, carried out
shop also has a vast range of Wall & Mantel piece
on site. They also offer an engraving service for gifts
clocks.
and trophies so choose that ideal gift for Dad and
The business has an extensive range of gifts for men including a selection of cufflinks, tankards, hip flasks,
42
M Leach Jewellers has been trading for more than 30
personalise it with a message or his name. M. Leach Jewellers
pens and pocket watches. Mr Leach said: “We’ve
98 Worcester Road, Link Top, Malvern
got lots of nice things in stock from established
Tel: 01684 573673
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
N W WORCESTERSHIRE
if you would like to advertise in the next issue please contact one of our sales team Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk
Michele Ford Tel: 01905 727902 michele@pw-media.co.uk
@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk
43
FOOD & DRINK
SALMON, NEW POTATO SALAD WITH AN
ASPARAGUS & HERB SAUCE SERVES 4 Brian Turner CBE will run a cookery demonstration for visitors to this year’s Droitwich Spa Food & Drink Festival on Saturday 17th June and will officially open the festival together with Nigel Huddleston MP on the Saturday morning along with meeting and greeting festival goers. The Droitwich Spa Food & Drink Festival has become one of the main events in the town during the summer and is fast building a reputation as one of the leading foodie festivals in the Midlands. Festival organiser Patrick Davis said; “We are thrilled to have secured Brian Turner to join us for the day on Saturday 17th June. Brian is the President of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts which he has combined with a successful career as a TV personality. Having been on the first ever Ready Steady Cook Show Turner served 14 years on the very successful programme as well as many appearances on This Morning, Saturday Kitchen etc and more recently his own show ‘A Taste of Britain’ on the BBC. In 2015 Turner recorded a new show also with the BBC, ‘My Life on a Plate.’ The Droitwich Festival was first set up in 2013 and after only 3 years has become a leading foodie festival in the Midlands with some 130 exhibitors and an estimated 18,000 visitors. Here is what some of last year’s exhibitors said about the festival: Nigel Craig Pie Creator “The best food festival of the year for us”; Dave Checketts Checketts Fine Foods Ombersley “Droitwich was one of the first festivals we attended 3 years ago and it is one of our favourites and most successful and on our door step”; Gillian Kerton Churchfields Farm Ice Cream “ Great event for us and so good to see local producers supported and promoted in this way” The festival this year will be a one day event taking place in the Lido Park Droitwich on Saturday 17th June, with a strong emphasis on “local” food & drink produce and is completely free to enter – bit of a rarity these days! Around 100 exhibitors with a wide range of food & drink and related products. The Droitwich Spa Food & Drink Festival is run by a committee of volunteer representatives and is supported by Wychavon District Council and Droitwich Town Council and Local Businesses. www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk Email: info@droitwichspafestival.co.uk
INGREDIENTS
B 1tbsp Droitwich spa brine salt B 1x 650gr piece fillet of salmon, skin on
B 4tbsp chicken stock B 2 oz butter B 8 medium sized new potatoes B 2tbsp crème fraiche B 1tsp creamed horseradish B 12 sticks asparagus B 1 clove garlic B 2tbsp chopped parsley B 1tbsp chopped basil B 1tbsp chopped mint B 4 chopped midget gherkins B 1tsp chopped capers B 1tsp Dijon mustard B 1tsp white wine vinegar B 4tbsp olive oil B Salt & pepper METHOD 1. Scrape the scales from the skin of the salmon and ensure that all pin bones are removed 2. Cut into 4 steaks from back to belly 3. Cut through the steaks down to the skin, but not through it and open up 4. Rub gently with the spa salt and leave in the fridge for 5. Take out and rinse salt off
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
and put the salmon pieces in 7. Pour the chicken stock over the salmon 8. Cover with a buttered paper and put in the oven 180°C 9. Cook gently for 10 minutes, keep pink and take out 10. Meanwhile wash the new potatoes and boil until just cooked 11. Take off the heat and allow to cool 12. Pour off the water and allow to drain 13. Mix with crème fraiche and horseradish and season 14. At the same time cook the asparagus 15. When cooked, take off and plunge into cold water to cool
20 minutes
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6. Butter an ovenproof dish
16. Take the tips off, approx. 3” and cut the stalks into a small dice 17. Crush the garlic and add to all other ingredients and mix well 18. Add chopped asparagus and season 19. Make sure salmon is still warm 20. Plate with salad and sauce over 21. Decorate with mini basil leaves
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45
FOOD & DRINK
STRAWBERRIES
the Quintessential Taste of Summer June, rightly or wrongly is often seen as the beginning of Summer, and of course the beginning of the strawberry season. These halcyon days would never be complete without the humble strawberry accompanied by lashings of cream.
S
urprisingly the strawberry is a member of
opportunities enough to “pick your own”, just Google
the rose family and comprises 103 different
“pick your own Worcestershire” and you will have
species coming in various shades of red, white
choice enough.
and yellow. Easy to grow, the strawberry just
needs sun, shelter and fertile, well-drained soil to thrive. The plants are widely available and can be grown in borders, containers or hanging baskets, with different varieties maturing in June, July and August. There is then no reason not to spoil yourself at any time of the day – no reason to wait for the dessert course at dinner. Cultivating strawberries commercially can be very
Our love affair with the strawberry goes back into our history and when the first Grand Slam was played in Wimbledon in 1877 the ubiquitous strawberry assured its place as an indispensable accompaniment to the tennis, albeit washed down with Champagne or Pimm’s these days. Those fruits destined for Wimbledon are harvested at 4 am on the day they are to be served.
labour intensive but with the increasing opportunity
Back in 1907, Mrs G W Hillyard, a six-time Wimbledon
to “pick your own” both the grower and the consumer
winner, lost a semi-final after eating strawberries as
benefit. It lowers the cost of harvesting for the grower
part of what she described as a “fearful tea” during
and enables you to have the freshest produce possible
the rain delay. She complained bitterly to tournament
– straight from plant to table. It can also be immense
officials – but, as irony would have it, her pleas turned
fun for children as they strive to find the biggest and
out to be fruitless!
most juicy examples whilst having the opportunity to
BY PETER GARSIDE
enjoy the great outdoors. Worcestershire, with its mild climate and fertile soils is a haven for fruit growers. This means that there are
N W worcestershire
we will be delivering even more copies to more homes and are looking for distributors in the following area:
GREAT MALVERN If you are interested in earning extra income please contact: Dawn Pardoe Tel: 01905 727909 dawn@pw-media.co.uk
46
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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47
FOOD & DRINK
STRAWBERRIES with everything 1
2
4
3
1. Shaken Udder has just launched its Strawberry & Clotted Cream Milkshake blending British strawberries, with British milk and Rodda’s clotted cream. A lovely British-inspired protein packed drink. RRP £1.49 per 330ml bottle. Available from Tesco, Waitrose & Ocado. 2. Fresh whipping cream Strawberries and Cream fudge from the Fudge Kitchen - available to buy online at www.fudgekitchen.co.uk. 3. Spode Strawberry Thief Teacup and Saucer Set - £12.50 Strawberry Thief is one of William Morris’ most iconic designs and was inspired by the thrushes he witnessed stealing fruit from his garden. Spode has created a beautiful interpretation of the original Morris & Co. pattern, depicting finebilled thrushes, sumptuous strawberries and rich blooms. Available from www.spode.co.uk 4. Bullards Spirits has just launched its delicious Strawberry & Black Pepper Gin. A fruity blend that’s best served in a tall glass with fruit, ice and mint. RRP £40 per 70cl bottle. Buy from www.jarrold.co.uk
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
Come Visit us at: St. Michael’s Farm, Stourport Road, Great Witley, WR6 6JB Opening Hours: Monday: Closed • Tues- Sat: 9am-5.30pm Sunday: 10am-4pm
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49
FOOD & DRINK
have a crafty one Something rather spectacular is going on down the pub – something you don’t see written about among reports of binge drinking and recession-hit pubs being flattened to make way for more homes. There’s a revolution going on, beer has been reinventing itself. Across the country, small breweries are refreshing, reviving and reinventing beer as we know it.
Y
ou’d have to go back 70 years to find as many
The
breweries in the UK as we have now. From
proliferation of styles we’re now enjoying can all be
genuine Czech-style pilsners and golden ales
traced back to that single fiscal measure. Initially, the
that pack a pint full of flavour at alcohol levels
independents brewed cask ale, just like the older, more
as low as 3.8% ABV, to zingy India pale ales (IPAs) and
traditional concerns. But then they started hearing
mighty export porters and imperial stouts – today,
about beers from outside the UK – beers that had
there is such an incredible variety that if you think you
flavours no one had tasted before, beers that were so
don’t like beer, you just haven’t found the right one
strong they were drunk from brandy balloons, beers
yet.
that were so intense they changed people’s lives. And
The future for the UK’s beer industry wasn’t always this rosy. Once, Britain was the greatest brewing nation on the planet, but there was little evidence
variety,
creativity,
innovation
and
stranger than any of these beers was the fact that this new scene was coming out of the country that made the blandest beer in the world...
of that by the Seventies. Traditional British cask ale –
Except it shouldn’t have been a surprise – not really.
revered around the world but less so at home – was
In the US, three identical beer brands accounted for
dying out in favour of mass-produced keg bitter and
80 per cent of the market between them. So craft
low strength lager. The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra)
brewers started digging up forgotten beer styles and
formed in 1971 and saved real ale from oblivion, but
reinventing them.
saddled it with an image problem.
There are now more than 800 breweries in the Brown,
UK – higher than at any time since the Forties with
introduced Progressive Beer Duty, which gave tax
about 80 openings each year. Camra itself has seen
breaks to brewers below a certain size. The number of
membership more than double in the past decade,
small brewers in the UK began to grow.
and its beer festivals now sell out in advance.
In
50
choice,
2002,
the
then
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
chancellor
Gordon
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51
keeping active
Start/Finish: The Walk starts at Tardebigge Church near Bromsgrove. Public Transport: The nearest Railway Station is at Bromsgrove with an hourly bus service to Tardebigge. Please consult ‘Traveline’. Parking: There is parking in the village car park near the Church. O/S Map: Explorer Map 204. Distance: 7 miles. Shorter 3.5 mile route shown on sketch-map. Time: Allow all day to do the main walk to fully enjoy the countryside. Refreshments: You will need a picnic and drinks as there are no shops along the route of the walk. Terrain: This walk is flat along the canal towpath and drops gently down the Tardebigge flight of locks. Away from the canal, the route is gently undulating with a few gradual climbs. There are stiles, gates and a number of footbridges. Boots are recommended due to uneven paths and muddy areas. Wheelchairs (with assistance) and pushchairs can enjoy a walk along the canal between points 1 and 5. History: Tardebigge Church is a local landmark with its ornamental spire visible from many places. The history of this building is well documented with copies available to visitors. Below the Church is the 30 mile long Worcester and Birmingham Canal that celebrated its bicentenary in 2015. The flight of 30 locks between Tardebigge and Stoke Pound is a challenge to boaters. Back in the 18th century, canal engineers had the job of planning and building this ‘flight’ across two miles raising and lowering boats across a height difference of around 367 feet, averaging 12 feet per lock.
3: Bridges, locks, tunnel and cottages were built with bricks made from clay dug out of the pit which later became the reservoir. If you climb bank near Lock 53 you can view reservoir. You will also see a pumping station (now a private residence) that pumped water from reservoir into canal to top up locks in dry weather. 4: Short Walk - Just beyond reservoir, (lock 50) is a footpath on left that goes over hillside in a straight line to ‘Patchetts Farm’ (point 8) where it rejoins main walk. The main walk continues along canal towpath passing beneath bridge 51 at Upper Gambold’s Lane.
1: The walk starts outside St. Bartholomew’s Church at Tardebigge
5: Between Locks 34 and 33, you will leave canal via footpath on
- highest point on walk. The Church, with its interesting history, is
left that takes you down bank, over stile and across to stile into lane
worth exploring. From adjacent car park, walk through small gate in
near ‘Copyholt Farm’. Turn right taking 2nd footpath on left. Walk
corner, down curved causeway to canal towpath where Tardebigge Tunnel entrance is on right. The tunnel is 580 yards long and horses were led up over the top while bargemen ‘legged’ through tunnel until motorised boats were introduced (tugs towed boats through prior to barges having their own motors). Horses often changed at stables near tunnel where horses were fed and watered and could stay overnight. It is worth glancing back at Tardebigge’s Church tower. 2: The walk continues westwards along canal towpath and shortly you will reach a lock cottage (dated 1816) adjacent to Tardebigge’s Top Lock number 58 (30th lock in flight). As you walk down canal towards Tardebigge Reservoir, you will go beneath several numbered bridges and past 25 of 30 locks in flight.
down right side of field to large gate then past a kiss-gate to a waymarker beyond where you turn left and cross field to footbridge over brook with gate onto it and stile off it. Turn right keeping to right of orchard then cross to far left corner, over a planked footbridge, through small metal gate and straight across paddock to gate beyond. Cross footbridge onto farm track with lane beyond. 6: Near ‘Orchard Farm’ turn left and walk in a straight line for 1/3 mile to Coalash Lane. Turn left and walk for half a mile to junction with Copyholt Lane. 7: Turn left and walk past Tardebigge Farm to Upper Gambold’s Lane. Turn right and walk to corner, taking second path (bridleway) through woodland strip to gate. This old lane leads to ‘Patchetts Farm’ where ‘Short Walk’ joins from left. 8: Walk past farm forking right along bridleway. At top, Tardebigge Reservoir is down on left. Walk down through woodland to London Lane. 9: Cross to High House Lane. Notice spire of Tardebigge Church. 10.After 1/3 mile, take footpath on left past school into churchyard where Earls of Plymouth are buried. Turn right to Church where walk ends. Written and illustrated by glynis dray
Trail Around Tardebigge
70
WALK
S
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
Congratulations Glynis! Thank you for your continued hard work coming up with a walking route every issue and for hitting an impressive 70 walks! The Proclaimers would be proud!
living history
THE SALT KING is 200 The Anniversary of the birth of John Corbett
J
ohn Corbett, son of a canal boat carrier, Joseph
John Corbett amassed a huge fortune and became
Corbett, was born at The Delph, Brierley Hill on
known as one of the most generous philanthropists of
June 12th, 1817. He was sent to school at the
his time. He never forgot where he came from and was a
age of five but left at the age of eleven to join
substantial benefactor to the Brierley Hill area, supporting
his father Joseph in the canal carrying business.
many charities and St. Michael’s Church, Brierley Hill. In
In 1840 he went as an apprentice to William Lester,
Amblecote in 1891 he purchased a mansion known as
Chief Engineer for Messrs Hunt and Brown of The Leys
‘The Hill’ and converted it into a Hospital.
Ironworks, Brierley Hill. After seven years he left to become a partner with his father in the canal carrying business now known as Joseph Corbett and Son. Try to picture the type of person with the following qualities: entrepreneurial, visionary, single minded, hardworking and prepared to diversify into various kinds of business. The chances are that you will come up with someone like Richard Branson. Roll the clock back about a century and a half and think of John Corbett. He had all the above qualities and, whilst he may have lacked Branson’s flamboyance, his was no less a remarkable lifetime of achievement in many respects. He will forever be linked with salt but did not make his fortune through salt alone. He had already illustrated his business acumen by investing in many properties and
His memory is commemorated on many street names and buildings throughout the areas of Worcestershire and the Black Country where he was connected. In the middle of the 19th century it was he who had the vision to change Droitwich from a dirty, smelly little town into a tourist spa, building hotels, brine baths and a new railway station for the many visitors coming to take ‘the brine’ in the hope of curing their ills, aches and pains. His generosity put Droitwich on the map. By an official Order dated 1993 ‘Spa’ was added to Droitwich Town Council’s name. John Corbett died at Impney Park (Chateau Impney) 22nd April 1901 in his 84th year. He is buried at St Michaels Church Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, his legacy lingers on.
agricultural land before he made the risky decision to
The 200th Anniversary of John Corbett’s birth in the Black
go into salt production at Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove. Salt
Country will be celebrated at a picnic to be held in the
production in Droitwich finished in 1922 when ICI closed.
grounds of Chateau Impney on June 25th 2017. @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk
53
golden years
CARE HOMES: WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS? If your relative is struggling to live alone even with the help of carers, friends and other relations, it might be time to consider a care home. When is it needed?
probably need to look for a care home that provides nursing
It may be time to start thinking about a care home for your
care.
relative if they need additional help with any of the following situations: a significant deterioration in their physical health or mobility caused by an illness or a fall; a problem with their mental health that limits their ability to stay safely in their own home; loss of help that was previously provided by a partner, relative or neighbour; loneliness, isolation or depression. What type of care home? A care home can help with personal care – such as supervision, washing, dressing or going to the toilet; nursing care – medical care from a qualified nurse; or both. Residential care homes A care home without nursing (also known as a residential care home) offers personal care, such as help getting up in the morning, going to bed at night, going to the toilet and eating meals.
Pros
B In a residential care home, someone is on call at night. In a nursing home, care is provided 24 hours a day.
B Residents have their own room and can usually personalise it with their own furniture, pictures and ornaments.
B Regular meals meeting nutritional needs. B The opportunity to socialise with peers and take part in organised activities or outings.
B Supervision of medication. B Peace of mind that a vulnerable relative is being taken care of and not living alone.
B No upkeep or household bills to worry about. B Safe, warm and clean living environment. Cons
Residential homes might be a good option for people who need regular or frequent help with personal care, and who can no longer have their needs met at home. Nursing homes If your relative is unable to leave their bed, or has any sort of medical condition or illness that requires frequent medical attention, their options are more limited. Long-term nursing care is not provided in sheltered housing or through care at home services. If your relative needs medical care, they will
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Care home pros and cons
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
B There may be a limited choice of suitable homes with a vacancy for your relative.
B Unfamiliar surroundings. B Loneliness and loss of contact with neighbours and old friends.
B Care homes can be very costly, particularly if your relative has to fund their own care.
B Families can feel guilty that they are not looking after their relative themselves.
B Your relative may feel rejected. It can help if you talk things
golden years
through beforehand. Regular contact once they’ve moved in will also help.
B Loss
of independence, although a good home should
encourage your relative to be as independent as possible.
B Lack of privacy. This might be difficult to adjust to. B A smaller living space means your relative won’t be able to take all of their furniture and personal possessions with them.
B The quality of care may vary from home to home. So just how do i Choose a care home? There are three key steps that will help you and your relative make an informed choice. 1 Shortlist: find care homes in your chosen area that provide the type of care your relative needs. 2 Contact: ask for brochures, statements of purpose and written details of costs. You could also enquire about availability
preferences so that you can refer to them on your visit. Just how do I fund this change to my life? Local authority funding Local authorities have a responsibility to:
B contribute
to the cost of care for people who fit their
eligibility criteria, in the form of the needs assessment and cannot afford to fund themselves
B arrange residential care for everyone who is assessed as needing it and is unable to make their own arrangements. Financial assessment Not everyone is eligible for local authority funding, but many people will be able to get some kind of financial support. It all depends on the amount of savings and assets your relative has, as well as their income.
of places that suit your relative’s needs.
The key difference between the financial assessment for
3 Visit: where possible, both you and your relative should go
residential care and for care at home is that, when moving to a
together. If your relative is unable to visit, ask a representative
care home, the value of your relative’s home is taken into account.
from the home to visit him or her and talk things through.
Self-funding a care home is quite common, and around two-
Before you make a visit, sit down with your relative and discuss
fifths of places in independent care homes are funded by
what’s important to them. What do they consider ‘essential’
private individuals. In these cases, he or she can choose their
and what do they consider ‘desirable’? Make notes about their
own residential care home.
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55
golden years
ENJOY HOTEL LIVING ALL YEAR ROUND FOR LESS AT EASTBANK COURT Hotel style living doesn’t have to be reserved for holidays – it can be enjoyed year-round, and for less, by older people in Worcester with a move to Eastbank Court.
Eastbank Court in Worcester offers hotel style living
T
he Aspen Retirement development often draws
things in life, perhaps being pampered in the on-site
comparisons to a five-star hotel thanks to the
salon before having a spot of lunch in the licensed
excellent communal facilities and the friendly
restaurant followed by a leisurely stroll through the
staff. It’s a lifestyle that’s proving popular –
gardens, a fitness class, quiz or sing-a-long.”
more than 90% of the owner-occupied apartments have now been sold. With limited availability, retirees are being urged to act fast if they want to secure an apartment and take advantage of the offer to ‘live free’ for a year and save thousands of pounds. For reservations before the end of July, Aspen is offering to cover the first year’s service charge, ground rent, reserve fund for the long-term maintenance of the development, as well as rental for a car park space, plus pay the Stamp Duty. The service charge covers some things householders would ordinarily pay themselves on any property, such as buildings insurance. It also covers staffing costs for cleaning, gardening and security, giving homeowners and their families the reassurance that help is at hand around the clock. It even subsidises the cost of meals in the on-site licensed restaurant. Aspen’s Glenys Bastin explains: “Taking more holidays is something many people look forward to doing in their retirement. At Eastbank Court homeowners can
56
The final phase of Eastbank Court includes a choice of one-bedroom apartments, with prices from £187,950. Buyers could find that the luxurious level of living at Eastbank Court is available at a reduced cost with the Aspen Assist shared equity scheme, which gives those aged 70-plus the option to pay just 80% of the purchase price (£150,360). Under the scheme Aspen retains the remaining 20% equity until the property is resold at a later date. “The spaciousness of the apartments has to be seen to be appreciated, along with the grounds of the development which look stunning at this time of year. We have landscape gardeners who tend to the gardens, but homeowners are welcome to lend a hand too or simply sit back and enjoy the shared outside space,” Glenys adds. Located on Eastbank Drive, Northwick, Eastbank Court is ideally placed in a quiet residential area. There’s a post office, Co-op shop and chemist just 250 yards away, as well as the bus stop for journeys into the city centre. There are even motorised scooters available for homeowners to hire.
embrace hotel style living all year round and without
For more information call 01905 455 182 or visit
having to keep packing and unpacking or travel.
w w w. a sp e nre tire me nt .co.uk /deve lopme nt s /
It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the finer
eastbank-court.
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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57
DROITWICH
VISITING DROITWICH SPA Families looking for a location that offers the best of everything will be hard-pressed to find a rival to
Droitwich Spa. The town is of great charm, heritage a-plenty, and provides something for everyone from an ideal central location.
I
ts semi-rural attributes are a huge draw. The Spa
and Birmingham make getting around extremely
town is surrounded by the beautiful Worcestershire
accessible.
countryside and possesses a number of idyllic green spaces including two picturesque Green Flag Parks
and local woodland. Lido Park, perhaps most wellknown because of its open-air saltwater Lido Pool, is also home to a wealth of sports and leisure facilities. The pool is open during the summer months and is an ideal day out for all the family. Alongside the 40m pool is a ‘wet play area’ full of fountains and water cannons to keep the children happy. Vines Park sits between the River Salwarpe and the Droitwich Canal (the canal being part of the Mid Worcestershire ring and accounting for much of the town’s heritage) but despite being the smaller of the two, also contains a children’s play area. Both are excellent locations to relax on a sunny afternoon with a family picnic. For families who enjoy the busier life, Droitwich Spa makes perfect sense. Being situated close to the M5, M6 and M42 Motorways makes the town not only an attractive proposition for commuters but also an ideal base for holidays and sightseeing with many exciting attractions nearby. Despite the surrounding landscape, only a little further afield sees the likes of Birmingham, Worcester, and Stratford-Upon-Avon. Public Transport
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Closer to the town centre, Webbs Garden Centre at Wychbold is an award winning retail complex offering everything for the gardener and the horticulturalist. The centre also features a restaurant, children's play area and craft shops. Hanbury Hall and the Jinney Ring Craft Centre are other popular local attractions on the town’s doorstep. The mix of urban and rural is further demonstrated by the retail offer within the town featuring a good choice of independent and national retail shops, restaurants, pubs and takeaways catering for every taste. The quirky independents blend seamlessly with the well known national stores, including a Waitrose and Morrison’s supermarkets, to create a vibrant shopping hub. A weekly Friday Charter Market and a monthly Farmers’ Market provide the icing on the cake for retail therapy. Throughout the year, Droitwich Spa boasts an exciting annual programme of events which are popular with people of all ages from the local community and beyond, with an eccentric offering including a Canal Festival (recently occurred), Food and Drink Festival (17 June), ArtsFest ( July) and Salt Fest (9 and 10 September).
links are well provided with regular direct bus services
It’s no surprise then that housing developers have in recent
to all surrounding areas. Furthermore, direct rail
time chosen Droitwich to build upon – with everything it has
connections from Droitwich Spa station to Worcester
to offer families, perhaps it’s worth taking a look too?
ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
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59
our events diary
WIN TICKETS TO The 2017 August Bank Holiday sees Camper Calling return for not just 2, but 3 nights now at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire. The three day family festival takes place in the stunning grounds of Ragley Hall in Warwickshire on bank holiday weekend between the 25 -27 August 2017.
A
mazing music from your best loved
Jam at Weston Park, the music and entertainment
bands, as well as introducing you to your
extravaganza quickly established itself as the
new favourites! Combine that with family
Midlands’s finest family friendly, boutique music
entertainment, adventure playgrounds, loads of
festival featuring some of the very best loved
activities including craft workshops, lake activities
bands and emerging new music.
and some seriously tasty food & drink, you'll be
The organisers of Camper Calling have pulled out
as busy - or as chilled out - as you choose!
all the stops to ensure that the August bank holiday
Three Lions chart toppers The Lightning Seeds
weekend is filled with a host of family friendly
will headline the opening night alongside rock
activities, from craft workshops to campfire tales,
legends Reef who perform on Saturday and
lake activities to children's circus shows. There
indie rockers Cast who perform on Sunday.
will be several live music stages, craft workshops, scrumptious street food, AüguztFest for the
90s indie legends Space, indie-punk act The Ordinary
Boys,
Birmingham
reggae
connoisseur of fine beer with a live Oompah Band,
stars
a fun fair, and an array of outdoor activities for
Musical Youth and X Factor break-out star Lucy
visitors of all ages. Brothers will also be serving up
Spraggan also join line -up alongside BBC Radio
a wide array of flavoured ciders.
2 favourite Betsy, UK reggae legends Backbeat Soundsystem, Ivor Novello Award-winning
The event is set in the opulent grounds of
Scott Matthews, Upbeat folksters CC Smugglers,
parkland, woodland and gardens of Ragley
rising British folk star Will Varley, Shropshire based
Hall. Surrounded by 27 acres of delightful ever-
indie-pop band Jack in a Box, Worcestershire pop/folk
changing gardens, the parkland contains the
band Grafton Ash, alt-rockers the Ravellas, acoustic
Children's Adventure Playground, Woodland
skiffle party band Thrill Collins, BBC Introducing stars
Walk, and Lakeside Picnic Area.
the Ragley Hall estate within 400 acres of
Animal Noise, rhythm and blues act The Atlantic
You don’t need to be a camper van owner or
Players, disco, synth popsters Smooth Ends and festival favourites Barbarella’s Bang Bang.
enthusiast to enjoy the festival. Camper Calling
Offering fabulous food and exciting activities for
a tent, motorhome, caravan or campervan,
all ages Camper Calling settled spectacularly into
Camping onsite will be available from across all
its stunning home at Ragley Hall in Warwickshire in
3 days, with free hot showers, a quieter family
2016. The brain-child of the team behind Camper
zone, plus VIP and clamping options.
has a relaxed atmosphere. You can camp in
Competition
Answer:
Ragley Hall, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the
Name:
For your chance to win one of four pairs of tickets to Camper Calling at following question:
Which group is headlining the open night of Camper Calling? Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Camper Calling WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 21st June 2017. ISSUE 167
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WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
Address: Tel: Email:
If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Camper Calling please tick this box
National Association of Goldsmiths Member
Quarter Jewellery(Worcester)
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We make wedding rings, all carats, all widths, all patterns. We beat any other jewellers price, even the internet.
Personalise Your Wedding Ring 1. Choose a plain wedding ring (9ct, 18ct or platinum 2. Keep it plain or have it diamond cut (any pattern) + £15 3. Set some bright white diamonds + £30 each (including setting) 4. Engrave dates or something lovey dovey on the inside + £20 (approx) Congratulations, you have just designed your very own Wedding Ring! Plain Wedding Rings are £37.50 per gram for 9ct or £75 per gram for 18ct
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our events diary
JUNE
Information Centre: 01584 810136, or online from our website. TEL: 0844 8842920 • WWW.TENBURYMUSICFESTIVAL.CO.UK
THURSDAY 1st
Birmingham Bach Choir - Fauré Requiem
Worcester Wildlife Week
Pershore Abbey, Church St, Pershore, WR10 1DT. 7.30pm.
Waterworks Road, Worcester, WR1 3EZ. 10am–5pm. Join
Tickets £15 (£12.50 concessions). Book online by credit or
Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Worcester City Council and
debitcard via PayPal or tickets@birmingham.bachchoir.com
Duckworth Worcestershire Trust for fun ways to discover the
Tel: 07901 798442
wildlife at Gheluvelt Park! Free* activities for all the family from guided bug hunts and pond dipping to trails and crafts throughout the day. No booking required. *Donations welcome. Tel: 01905 754919 • www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk SUNDAY 4th Spin Us A Yarn Almonry Tourist Information and Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham, WR11 4BQ. Follow our sheep shearers trail and make your own pom-pom sheep with our craft activity. Learn some fun facts about sheep, knitting and the history of Baa Baa Black Sheep. Kids trails cost £1 per trail to include craft activity. Standard museum admission applies. Open daily 10am-5pm (Sundays 2pm-5pm). Tel 01386 446944 • www.almonryevesham.org SATURDAY 17th The Midland Sinfonia - A Classical Summer’s Evening St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, B48 7SB. 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets: on the door £14.50, in advance £13 from The Village Green Grocer and Florist, Alvechurch or book online. FT students and schoolchildren accompanying an adult free. TEL: 07889 147 861 • www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk TENBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL IN AID OF TEENAGE CANCER TRUST
THURSDAY 22nd - SUNDAY 25th Upton Jazz Festival Upton upon Severn, Worcester WR8 0JN. Hot rhythms on the banks of the River Severn at Upton-upon-Severn at the annual Jazz Festival. Tel 01684 593254 • www.uptonjazz.co.uk FRIDAY 23rd - SATURDAY 24th JINNEY RING CRAFT CENTRE ANNUAL FESTIVAL Some of the UK’s best folk acts will be heading to Hanbury for the Jinney Ring Craft Centre’s annual festival. Headlining the festival programme on Saturday, June 24th will be celebrated songwriters Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman - twice winners of the BBC Radio 2 folk award for best duo and acclaimed for their wideranging, acoustic repertoire. The eight acts on the Marquee Stage also include Ruth Theodore, Mumbo Jumbo and The Haunted Souls. The festival also includes an intimate gig on Friday, June 23 by traditional folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Steve Turner, followed by an open mic session. The performances the following day run from midday until 11pm. Tickets are priced from £22 in advance from the website with camping packages also available. www.jinneyring.co.uk
JULY
SATURDAY 1st
The Burgage, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8SF. 12noon - midnight.
The 70th annual Hanbury Show
12 hours non-stop music with Mike Sanchez and His Band,
Park Hall Farm Hanbury B96 6RD. 9am to 6pm. A fantastic
Arcadia Roots, Sticky Wicket, etc. 3 stages and BBC H&W
summer outing for the whole family. Tickets Adult: £10 on the
"Introducing". Food, Beer tent, Cocktail bar, Poetry/Crafts,
day book early £8.00 Chidren 12 years and under free of charge.
Camping, Rain marquee. Tickets: £20 (£25 on gate) (12-17: £10,
Tel: 07876 408814 (MON-WED or 07884 033502 (THURS-FRI)
accompanied under12s: free) available from Tenbury Tourist
www.hanburyshow.co.uk
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
Pershore Midsummer Brass Saturday 1st July, 10am - 10pm
Pershore Abbey Angel Inn With Beer Tent
Baptist Church Chapman Court Only £7.50 for 12 hours of entertainment
A day of AMAZING music Tickets available now from BLUE, Broad Street, Pershore and on the day
Check our website for more information
www.pershoremidsummerbrass.org.uk
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63
CBSO ANNOUNCES IT's 2017-18 SEASON "Whatever the music that speaks to you, for
musical mind of Claude Debussy 100 years
Constantinos
me and for every musician in the CBSO, it’s
after his death, and a concert performance
and Leo McFall. Plus we welcome back
all about connecting – with our instruments,
of his fairytale opera Pelléas et Mélisande
conductors
with our souls, and above all with each
with an outstanding international cast.
Edward Gardner, Michael Seal, John
other... I can’t wait to see you."
of
Birmingham
soloists
Mallwitz
including
and Nicola Benedetti.
Music Director City
and
Joana
Wilson,Nicholas Collon, Rudolf Buchbinder
Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
The
Carydis,
CBSO Friday Night Classics are all about
Symphony
great tunes and fun times. This season,
Orchestra is delighted to announce their
you can rock out to ABBA, boogy along to
new 2017-18 season of concerts, on sale
Bowie, enjoy the thrill of great movie music
from Monday 22 May. There’s music to
or belt out a West End show stopper. Not
help you celebrate or unwind, indulgent
forgetting the ultimate chill-out of our
romantic classics, thrilling symphonies
Classic FM Smooth Classics night, and
and fascinating new music to explore.
our hugely popular Christmas and New Year shows. Come on your own or bring a
CBSO Music Director Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla opens the season on 21 September with
party. Whichever you choose, we promise
a performance of Haydn’s masterpiece
We also can’t wait to introduce you to
The Creation - the beginning of an exciting
CBSO Artist in Residence: Jörg Widmann
series of concerts which sees her working
– maverick composer, dynamic conductor
with the whole CBSO family. Mirga will
and
conduct 26 concerts across the season:
a stunning line up of debut artists
including the curation of a major festival in
including Ning Feng, Rafał Blechacz,
March 2018 to celebrate the exceptional
Xavier de Maistre, Sheku Kanneh-Mason,
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
clarinettist
extraordinaire;
and
you the best night out on Broad Street! Plus with special Family Concerts for younger
concertgoers
and
toddler-
friendly Notelets, there’s music for all ages too. Explore it all at cbso.co.uk
@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk
65
our events diary
Win an overnight stay for two Escape to Worcestershire’s leading hotel and wedding venue, The Wood Norton, for a luxury night for two! Included in the
prize will be an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s top suites and a full English breakfast for the following morning. Perfect!
N
estled discreetly within the Vale
Wood Norton provides an exquisite fine-
on the front lawn, an intimate exchange of
of Evesham, The Wood Norton
dining experience, using the very best in
vows in the hotel’s wood panelled hall, and
is a beautifully crafted grade II
local produce. What’s more, its famous
the gathering of close family and friends in
listed Victorian manner house,
Fleur de Lys Brasserie overlooks the hotel’s
our impressive events suit, The Orangery.
originally built for French royalty. In 1939 the estate was brought by the BBC so it could relocate its operations away
southern terrace, boasting a stunning viewpoint of the cascading Worcestershire countryside and Bredan Hills.
Couples can enjoy say ‘I do’ from just £4,950 with the hotel’s ‘All-inclusive special offer’. Available for dates throughout
from London in the event of hostilities.
A stay at the grade II listed mansion also
2018, the package includes a delicious
Following an extensive refurbishment
provides the opportunity to explore what
three course wedding breakfast, drinks
is arguably some of the best scenic towns
package and evening food for 60 guests -
in the country, with Stratford-upon-Avon
together with a number of exciting extras,
and the Cotswolds very much on its
such as reduced accommodation rates
doorstep.
and your very own Wedding Co-ordinator.
Weddings at The Wood Norton
For
programme during 2012 the hotel reopened, wowing guests with its original 19th Century French decorative interiors throughout, combined with the very best the modern world has to offer.
more
details,
From the moment you approach The Wood
Sandie
Norton, you can imagine the wedding of
thewoodnorton.com or call the hotel
AA rosette in culinary excellence, The
your dreams. Arrival drinks and canapes
directly on 01386 765 611.
Answer:
Norton, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the
Name:
For your chance to win a luxury overnight stay for two at The Wood following question:
Who took over the use of The Wood Norton during the Second World War? Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Wood Norton WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 21st June 2017. ISSUE 167
66
WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017
at
Having recently been awarded its second
Competition
Griffiths
please
weddings@
Address: Tel: Email:
If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from The Wood Norton please tick this box
@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk
67
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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017