Worcestershire NOW JUNE 2017

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

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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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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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11

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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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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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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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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All our buildings are made to order, so we maintain maximum flexibility in terms of creating a design that suits all of your requirements.

We’d love to discuss how we can help with your garden building project. Whether you are looking for a garden office where you can break away from the daily commute, an art studio for your own quality time, a Kids Cave away from your living area or just a place to relax. Please call today for an appointment and see how we can add quality and value to your garden space.

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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

44

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

54

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

58

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.

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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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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

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk

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

email

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

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ISSUE 167 WORCESTERSHIRE Now JUNE 2017