South Wa by PW Media & Publishing Ltd

SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE

N W APRIL 2016

issue ONE

The Complete Bathroom Transformation

See page THIRTEEN for more information

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ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

CONTENTS South warwickshire now 2nd Floor, Richardson House, 24 New Street, Worcester. WR1 2DP 01905 723011 www.pw-media.co.uk

ADVERTISE Jess Keare Tel: 01905 727908

the entrance to your home is the focal point of its kerb appeal and it can also reflect the home’s interior design. Adding a blast of colour is an easy way to drastically increase the kerb appeal.

jess@pw-media.co.uk Michele Ford Tel: 01905 727902 genna@pw-media.co.uk

Editor Dawn Pardoe PW Media and Publishing Ltd

Charles McQuaid gives us some tips on how to improve your kerb appeal

dawn@pw-media.co.uk

DESIGN Paul Blyth Amy Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS Kate Baker Jane Brook Glynis Dray Emma Richmond Charles McQuaid 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

SPRING GARDENING TIPS

Creating creative planters

care is taken, neither PW Media and 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 and 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 South Warwickshire and North Cotswolds Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust’s walk across the Welcombe Hills

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CONTENTS

18 TIME TO REVITALISE

CRISPY ASPARAGUS FRITTERS

Jane Brook gives us some tips how to look great on the school run... in minutes

APRIL 2016

ISSUE ONE

Honeybourne to Pebworth Circular walk

WHAT’S ON NOW

SPRING IN EVESHAM

34 4

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

Win a luxury night for two at Worcestershire’s leading wedding venue!

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homestyle

the entrance to your home is the focal point of its kerb appeal and it can also reflect the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior design. Adding a blast of colour is an easy way to drastically increase the kerb appeal.

5 ways to improve your

kerb appeal Kerb appeal is one of the most important factors to take into account if you are looking at renting or selling your house. It can also be an easy way to give your home a fresh new look and give a lasting first impression to your guests and neighbours.

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

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homestyle

Adding a blast of colour is an easy way to drastically increase the kerb appeal

mproving the kerb appeal of your

planting and lighting which will draw

look. A candle, a designer door mat

home doesn’t have to be a big

the eye and create a clean and smart

or even a small piece of furniture are

undertaking; use these 5 ways to

look. An example of using plants

just some examples. My personal

change your kerb appeal from a

is by placing two identical planters

favourite are hanging baskets that

on either side of the door. Planters

reflects the current season and

can be easily made with some

matches with your door colour.

basic before to an inspiring after! Spruce up the entrance The entrance to your home is the focal point of its kerb appeal and it can also reflect the home’s interior design. Adding a blast of colour is an easy way to drastically increase the kerb appeal. If you are happy with the condition and colour then

organisation and planning. Don’t be afraid to get creative with colours and shape. You can even make your own with help from my other article in this issue: Creating Creative Planters. You can apply the same idea with lighting by fixing a pair of lights on to the wall either side of the door, but keep

you can still give it a fresh look by

in mind that if the lights are too big

cleaning it and using metal polish on

or too ornate they can look brash.

the knob and fixtures. This polished

You can even use lighting to light up

look makes the house more inviting.

the edges of a pathway, this looks especially appealing if the pathway is

Create symmetry

Maintain the essentials House numbers, the door fittings, a

wall-mounted

postbox,

and

an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home's exterior kerb appeal. If they are out of date or rusting, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. Maintaining them is easy and should be completed regularly. If you are thinking about replacing

decorative in some way.

them remember that they work

Accessorise

rather than mixing pieces with

symmetry at the front of your house

Adding design accessories are a

different designs and colours. The

can create a lasting effect. You can

quick and easy way to draw the eye

same idea can be implemented to

create symmetry effortlessly using

and complete your front of house

larger objects like the guttering,

Symmetrical design positively effects our

Adding design accessories are a quick and easy way to draw the eye

subconscious

and

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

creating

best if they function collectively

window sills and the gate. These

the front door and thus increasing

should all be maintained regularly

your kerb appeal. Improving your

and match visually if they can.

kerb appeal is important when looking to sell your house or rent it

Upgrade your windows

out as it gets the person interested

Do not let the only design feature

into the right frame of mind before

of your window be the design of the net curtains from within your

they have even stepped through

home. Windows have the potential

the front door. The house market is

to dramatically change the look

all about split decisions and it takes

of your home as they cover so

perspective homeowners 8 seconds

much surface area of the front of

to make a decision about a house so

your house. One way to upgrade

first impressions are vital.

your windows is to install some window boxes which can add tons

Creating a clean, welcoming facade isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

of character to a house. Wooden

just important when selling or renting

window

boxes

are

perfect

your home. Taking a fresh look and

achieve that cottage feel, but if you

carrying out some simple alterations to

are looking for something more

your driveway or front garden can help

contemporary then choose copper

alleviate stress when arriving home

or iron as the material. Fill them

after a hard dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work and generally

with plants that match your outdoor

makes coming home each day that little

lighting and colour scheme. Combining all these steps will create a better feeling when approaching

bit more pleasant. You can even use lighting to light up the edges of a pathway

By Charles McQuaid @NOWWARWICKSHIRE FIND US ON FACEBOOK WWW.SOUTHWARWICKSHIRENOW.CO.UK

homestyle

Kenilworth cASTLE, WARWICKSHIRE Tips for gardeners in early spring by Fiona Tansey,

Head Gardener, Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Garden

he weather is finally behaving like early spring

light. Sow seeds such as Aubergine and Peppers on a heated

with cold frosty mornings, improved light and

bench and you will notice the results in stronger plants later

even some sunshine in the afternoons. Now is

in the season. Check old pots for vine weevil grubs, especially

the ideal time to tidy up the garden in preparation

around strawberries. Destroy the grubs if you can, and order

for late spring and early summer.

nematodes later to apply when the temperatures rise.

Give the compost heap a good turn and use up any well

Why not try your hand at a little easy tree surgery? Using

rotted matter on flowerbeds, or around tree and hedge roots.

a pruning saw rather than a chainsaw you can quickly

Any compost that hasn’t turned into nice dark humus can be

change the outlook of your garden by coppicing various

returned to the pile and added to throughout the year. It’s a

trees. Willow, Hazel and Dogwood respond especially

good idea to weed and tidy through the beds as you go, cutting

well to this treatment. Try cutting a third of the stems or

back deciduous shrubs and edging the grass to smarten up

branches to six inches above ground level. This will let in

those areas you can see from the warmth of the sofa!

more light and produce young growth which can then be

Roses and fruit trees should be pruned now. Remove dead or diseased branches, and those that cross over. Making an open “goblet” shape will help encourage fruit and flowers. Feed and mulch around the roots for best results. Order summer flowering bulbs now from the many catalogues that arrive in the post. Also order those bare root trees and shrubs that can be planted as soon as they arrive. Now is the best time for planting the hedge you have been planning since last year. Native trees such as Hawthorn and Blackthorn work best and are surprisingly fast growing, providing food and shelter for birds too. Deciduous shrubs can be moved at this time of year while they are semi-dormant. Make sure you take as much of the root ball as possible and plant at the same level. Watering in the roots is essential to establish the plant in its new position. Clear out the greenhouse or poly tunnel. Scrub benches with a mild disinfectant and wash the windows to let in maximum

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

harvested for pea sticks or plant supports. Finally, look around at what looks great at this time of year and make a wish list for your own garden. The Daphne mezureum here at Kenilworth Castle is in full flower, and the Wallflowers are brightening up the Elizabethan garden. It won’t be long until spring is finally here.

MORE INFORMATION From Medieval fortress to Elizabethan palace, Kenilworth Castle has been at the centre of England's affairs for much of its 900 year history. Today, you can scale the heights of the tower built to woo Elizabeth I and relax in the beautifully recreated Elizabethan garden, with magnificent carved arbours; colourful abundant planting and an 18-foot-high fountain carved from dazzling Carrara marble; just some of the glories that make it the most complete picture of an Elizabethan garden anywhere in the world. Castle Green, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 1NE Tel: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

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homestyle

creating creative planters Planters of the past went hand in hand with terra-cotta, but gone are the days where this was the case. Those pervasive red clay pots, long beloved by gardeners, make great showcases for plants of all kinds, but they have some limitations and are now seriously outdated.

f you are looking for alternatives, you

sand or perlite for drainage. Ask your local

another easy way to make funky planters.

will find plenty of containers made from

nursery or gardening centre for potting

Pots and pans can even be used and come in

various materials. From rugged stone to

soil that is water-retentive in order to lock

a variety of shapes and sizes for all different

lightweight fibreglass, they look good, age

in the moisture and nutrients. To put the

styles. You just need a drill strong enough to

gracefully and can hold up all year-round in

finishing touches to a healthy planter you

any climate. A local gardening store will hold

get through the tough metal.

can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil

a good stock with a wide variety.

when planting; once plants are established,

Use the gifts of Mother Nature

continue to feed regularly. Remember that

Tree trunks can be modified to create a

the type of soil mix also depends on the

table-top of flowers and can transform a

plant being used.

ugly stump to a beautiful display. Empty

Another way to cater to your very specific needs is to make the planters yourself; this gives you total creative freedom and can save some money as well. This simple DIY

Content

project is sure to add visual interest and

The best flowers for containers can be

colour in your landscape or even your living

found in the “annual” or “bedding plants”

room! Before you get your greenfingers out

section of the garden centre. While they

there are some tips and guidelines to keep in

only live one summer, they’ll bloom the

mind when creating your creative planters:

entire season. Other flowering plants

Drainage Your prized planter will need watering and the amount of drainage holes will affect how much water is required and how often you will need to water. You can manage the drainage holes by placing a

(such as perennials, bulbs, and shrubs) may be blooming beautifully right now, but the flowers will be gone in a few weeks. Don’t forget to read the labels to be sure your chosen spot offers the right light and temperature conditions for the plants.

shells can also be filled carefully and drilled appropriately to create a wonderful mini display for both the indoors and outdoors. Mighty Minis Mini Planters are awesomely cute and are perfect for giving a room a subtle fresh feeling. These are very intricate and can be tricky so being patient is key. Some of my favourite examples of these delicate planters are made from egg cups, light bulbs, books and even bottle corks! These are best used with plants that do not require much water

layer of pottery shards over the holes, this

Now you can apply these tips to almost any

or care and are best for indoor use for

will keep the soil from washing out. If you

container imaginable if you stay within the

example succulents and cacti.

require more drainage then add to 2 to 3

guidelines. Here are some of our favourite

inches of gravel on top of the shard.

successful creations that you can try for

Whether you’re planning to use them as

yourself or use as inspiration.

the basis for a courtyard container garden,

Choosing the soil is, unfortunately, not

Kitchen Delights

front entry, or simply to add visual interest

as easy as filling up your planters with

A colourful colander can be used as a

and colour in your landscape—or even in

excess garden soil. Garden soil does not

perfect planter. There is no need to drill

offer enough air, water or nutrients for

drainage holes and you have the option to

your living room—creating a planter is a

container grown plants. Containers require

place a chain or strong rope to each handle

a lightweight potting soil, or soil mixed with

and voila! A DIY hanging basket. Loaf tins are

Soil

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

to hold a pair of shrubs on either side of a

great way to achieve all this. By Charles McQuaid

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homestyle

Choose your incentive

and get moving to your

dream home at Fair Acres Homebuyers in South Warwickshire are being offered all the help they need to get moving to their perfect property – thanks to the fantastic range of incentives available at Taylor Wimpey’s Fair Acres development in Honeybourne.

their

which sees the leading housebuilder

What’s more, idyllic rural life is

circumstances, there’s

find a purchaser for an existing home

complemented

in just a few weeks – and sometimes

transport connections – thanks

as little as a fortnight.

hatever

helpful offer

initiative to

make

purchasing a dream home even easier and more affordable for every aspiring mover. And with a superb selection of three, four and fivebedroom houses now on sale at Fair Acres, there’s a wealth of choice to suit a whole range of requirements. Just one of the homebuyer schemes available at the development is Help to Buy. Available to both first-time buyers and those with a property to sell, this Government-backed initiative enables eligible customers to access a 20% equity loan towards the cost of their new home – so they only require a 5% deposit and a 75% loan-to-value mortgage. Alternatively, existing homeowners

Anne Wallace, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “With so many great customer incentives and a stunning choice of

beautiful

homes

available

right now at Fair Acres, this is the perfect opportunity for buyers to get moving to their perfect place. I’d advise would-be movers to come and see us as soon as they can to find out more.” The wide range of three, four and

Honeybourne’s

exceptional direct

rail

services to London Paddington and proximity to the A44 – making it the ideal destination for house-hunters up and down the M5 corridor. The development is also an ideal location for shopping and leisure opportunities, with the nearby historic market town of Evesham boasting a range of cultural and contemporary amenities, including the Riverside shopping centre and supermarkets.

five-bedroom properties currently

available from £228,995 at Fair

moving

Acres includes the impressive four-

home at Fair Acres, property-

bedroom

seekers can visit the Sales

‘Downham’

showhome,

which comes fully decorated with all fixtures and fittings for just £339,995.

find

out to

how

get

brand

new

Centre, located off Weston Road, 7QJ,

Honeybourne, and

open

WR11

Thursday

can opt for Part Exchange, through

Surrounded by exclusive villages

which they receive an agreed offer

and with the stunning backdrop of

price for their current property

the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding

based on the average of independent

Natural Beauty less than two miles

information is available by

professional valuations, with Taylor

down the road, Fair Acres offers a

calling the Sales Executive

Wimpey acting as their cash buyer.

unique opportunity to enjoy Cotswold

on 01386 579625 or by visiting

There’s also the easymover scheme,

living for a great-value price!

www.taylorwimpey.co.uk.

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

to Monday from 11am to 5pm.

Alternatively,

further

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

i One touch of nature makes the whole world kin...

2016 is a year to celebrate the immortal works of William Shakespeare. On 23rd April, the country will be marking 400 years since the bard’s death, and what better way to make your memorial than to walk in his footsteps across the Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park; the landscape that helped to inspire some of his greatest plays.

arwickshire Wildlife Trust’s brand new audio

absorbed in rumour and hearsay, and where folklore taught

trail crosses this historic landscape, and is your

of witches, frightening creatures and mysterious traditions.

guide to the flora and fauna that can be found there, as well as the people that have called

the Welcombe Hills home. The audio trail has been created by a group of young people from Warwick-based youth theatre company Playbox Theatre. With the help of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, they have spent several hundred hours researching and recording the audio trail, and can now offer an unforgettable tour of this most surprising of nature reserves.

you can visit the 40 metre Victorian obelisk built by Robert Philips in memory of his brother Mark, who was a figure heavily involved in the changing industrial and political landscape of the 19th century. With the audio trail as your tour guide, you can experience the greatest eras of this landscape’s history; explore how nature and wildlife have played their part is Shakespeare’s

Meet the Clopton family, whose local prestige allowed them

works; and climb to the highest points on the Welcombe Hills

to hold influence over Stratford-Upon-Avon for around 600

to breathe in the stunning views across Stratford-Upon-Avon.

years. Experience their horror as family tragedy strikes, and learn how their personal losses may have inspired a young William Shakespeare to create two of his most tragic heroines; leading to the family’s most enduring legacy.

The story then takes you into the industrial era, where

The audio trail is now available to download onto your mobile phone, tablet or mp3 player.

To listen to the trail simply visit

www.warkswildtrails.org.uk or head out

See the natural world as the Elizabethans saw it, and discover

for a springtime walk across the Welcombe

strange mythical creatures such as the manticore, with the

Hills and Clopton Park nature reserve and

head of a man and the body of a lion. Venture into a world

scan the QR codes on the interpretation

where, as darkness fell, a community of rural farmers became

panels that you find there.

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

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BEAUTIFUL

it’s time to

revitalise

Refresh and pamper your skin this month with our top beauty buys

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vertivert, camomile and sandalwood, help rest your

anti aging eye cream

butter nourishes,

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that combines

soothes and conditions.

night’s sleep. Extracted from crystallised sea salt

colour coverage with

Developed for dry and

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enhancing skincare

dehydrated skin, this

pure salt, renowned for its therapeutic effects, has

benefits. Eradicating

Hand & Nail Butter

a rich ionic mineral content, for a soothing bath

fine lines and blurring

reinforces the skin’s acid

experience. Enjoy a moment of pure indulgence.

away dark circles Tinted

mantle and moisture balance.

£18.50

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

£42.00

Wonder Eye Cream gently hydrates and refreshes.

£20.00

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lifted-looking skin with

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prevent and visibly

wide awake, refreshed.

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Hydrates, brightens,

oat kernel extract

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Stockist Details: Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk. Aromatherapy Associates - 020 8569 7030 - www.aromatherapyassociates.com. Balance Me - www.balanceme.co.uk Clinique - www.clinique.co.uk. DHC - www.dhcuk.co.uk. Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk.

COMIN G SOON

RETAIL THERAPY

How to look great on

the school run... in minutes Does this sound familiar? It’s Monday morning, you’re on the school run and it’s chaotic. You’ve got the children up, dressed and fed, checked the homework situation, just about remembered their PE kit. And then it’s a mad flurry getting them to school on time.

aking yourself look great is at the bottom

and Lipstick. And that’s it. When you’re short of time,

of the list. How could you possibly

don’t worry about eye make-up. A brush of mineral

find the time? And besides, you may

foundation takes about 20 seconds.

embarrass the kids – or the other mums,

who’ve just struggled with the same morning routine.

A quick slip of lipstick or lip gloss, in your most delicious `wow’ colour, will have more impact than

But what if we said you could look effortlessly stylish

any other make-up. It will light up your face and

in a matter of minutes? And feel great about how

make your eyes sparkle – and sometimes, that’s

you look. You wouldn’t believe us, right? Here’s how:

enough to make you feel wonderful.

Magic make up

The effortless wardrobe

There’s a secret to looking alive and vibrant in

On the busiest of school run mornings, imagine

seconds. Actually, there are two: Mineral foundation

having a choice of stuff in your wardrobe that you

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

can just grab and put on, knowing it will look fabulous. If that sounds impossible, don’t worry. You’re not alone. We’ve all stood in front of bulging wardrobes thinking `I’ve absolutely nothing to wear’. So what’s the solution? In short, colour. Once you know which spectrum of colours make you look great, your wardrobe becomes a joy. You can pick clothes at random, even in the dark. Everything goes together. Getting dressed is easy, and it takes a matter of seconds. On chaotic mornings, it’s a life-saver. The power of accessories To be honest, you only need one gorgeous accessory to make you look and feel alive and bright on the school run. It could be a good quality shoulder bag or how about a stunning scarf? Just pick your best colour, drop it around your neck, and you’re good to go. Give yourself permission to look good

When you feel great on a daily basis your family reaps the benefits. Once you give yourself permission to look good, everyone wins - especially your kids. You don’t have to spend a fortune. That fabulous lippy alone will make all the difference. Wear it every day on the school run – you can be as windswept and muddy as you like, you’ll still look wonderful. The trick is to be consistent. Once you’ve found that perfect lipstick, the colours that make you look younger

and

accessories that speak your language, wear them every day. A couple of weeks, the other mums will start asking what your secret is. You’ll be the most stylish person in the playground.

MORE INFORMATION

When it comes to spending money, busy mums often put

Jane Brook

themselves last. It’s completely understandable, especially

Colour Analyst & Personal Style Consultant

if you’re on a tight budget.

T: 07970 293341

But think of it this way: when you look good, you feel good.

E: jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk/janebrook

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FOOD & DRINK

Best pub national win for The Fleece Visit England has named The Fleece Inn at Bretforton as Tourism Pub of the Year in its Excellence Awards.

mid competition from four other shortlisted pubs from across England, Worcestershire’s The Fleece Inn won Gold, with it's many delights, including good food, local ales, and traditional

entertainment wowing the judging panel on their mystery visits. The Visit England judges cited its contribution to local communities and impact on the local tourism economy to distinguish National Trust owned The Fleece from the other finalists. ‘Tourism Pub of the Year’ is a brand new category and is one of 16 categories in the prestigious, annual Visit

the pub and all the landlords that have gone before me

England Excellence Awards. The Excellence Awards have

to keep this quintessentially English atmosphere and

grown this year, with applications up by 20% across

offering going strong. Thanks must go to the entire

the categories with the number of direct entries nearly

team at The Fleece. They do an amazing job every day,

doubled. The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence are

and this and our other 2 recent awards are testament

different to other quality standards as they recognise and

to this. I am proud to be celebrating the unique

celebrate excellence across customer service and the

tradition that is the great British Pub and very much

quality of the experience.

appreciate Visit England's recognition of the catagory

Iain Stewart, Director of freetobook, sponsors of the

as an engine for tourism growth."

Tourism Pub of the Year category said, "Along with

The award for Tourism Pub of the Year was presented to

VisitEngland, we celebrate our great English pubs

The Fleece Inn by Iain Stewart, Director, freetobook and

and inns. As an independent, family-run business we

Joss Croft, Director of Marketing, VisitBritain

know how important it is for them to offer a service that sets them apart and keeps customers coming

This is the most recent in a series of awards won by The

back. We offer our sincere congratulations to The

Fleece Inn at Bretforton in recent months. The Fleece

Fleece Inn and the other finalists for getting this far.”

was also one of the first five pubs to be awarded the

The Fleece Inn’s landlord Nigel Smith accepted the Award at the ceremony in Blackpool, joined on the stage by members

Pub Accreditation accolade by Visit England and named Country Pub of the Year 2016 by the Good Pub Guide.

of The Fleece’s winning team. He comments: “We work

For more information on the menu or accommodation

really hard to give visitors to the pub a welcoming,

options at The Fleece Inn, or to see the diary of

historic and all round enjoyable experience. The

forthcoming events, or to find out more about The

Fleece has a wonderful and rich history, and a stunning

Fleece as a venue, please visit www.thefleeceinn.co.uk or

location in beautiful rural Worcestershire – I owe it to

call 01386 831173.

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

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FOOD & DRINK

CRISPY ASPARAGUS, MISO MAYONNAISE, SWEETCORN & ASPARAGUS FRITTERS

MASTERCHEF PRO CHAMP MARK SERVES UP FOR ASPARAGUS FESTIVAL The British Asparagus Festival is home territory for reigning Masterchef Professional champion, Mark Stinchcombe who, with his wife Sue, run the restaurant at Vale of Evesham's Eckington Manor. To show their support, they'll be offering Asparagus Tasting Evenings throughout the two month festival and Mark has created a special recipe in honour of the asparagus festival. The festival kicks off on Saint George's Day with the Great British Asparagus Run and is a celebration of the first-cut round of asparagus. The British Asparagus Festival has earnt a reputation for being one of the UK's quirkiest and most eccentric festivals, thanks to the likes of the asparamancer, Gus the Asparagus Man, the asparafairy and lots of other strange goings on. As usual, the Run begins at the National Trust's only pub - the 600-year-old Fleece Inn in Bretforton. This year however, the main festivities will take place next to Evesham Abbey Bell Tower to celebrate its recent restoration. The newly-renovated bells will ring out for the first time to welcome the Great British Asparagus Run. Also joining the morning's celebrations will be worldrenowned asparamancer, Jemima Packington, Eve the Asparafairy, troupes of Morrisdancers, including the all-female "Asum Gras" Molly Dancers, together with The Archer's Eddie Grundy who will be reading odes to the vegetable. The newly-harvested spears will then be escorted by a fleet of vintage and Morgan Cars to a secret destination in London. To find out more about the British Asparagus Festival 2016, and all its associated events, please visit www.britishasparagusfestival.org or to find out more about the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Evesham, take a look at www.battleofevesham.co.uk

(Serves 4)

INGREDIENTS FOR

INGREDIENTS FOR THE

SWEETCORN & ASPARAGUS

MAYONNAISE

FRITTER

B 1 tbsp of miso (fermented

B 2 spears of raw asparagus,

soy beans - you can get this from supermarkets)

B 3 tbsp of mayonnaise (homemade is best, but any mayo is great too!) INGREDIENTS FOR CRISPY ASPARAGUS

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

B 160g sweetcorn B 5 tbsp self raising flour B ½ chilli, finely chopped (or as much as you like!)

B Sprig of coriander, finely chopped (can be replaced with any herb, eg basil, chive,

parsley) B 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs B ½ cup grated parmesan cheese B 2 egg whites, lightly whisked B Sea salt and freshly ground B Oil to deep fry black pepper, to taste B Salt & Pepper to taste B 1 pound asparagus, trimmed B ½ cup all-purpose flour METHOD B 2 large eggs, beaten 1 Blend sweetcorn to a puree in a food processor and then METHOD

transfer to a mixing bowl. Add

1 Preheat oven to 180°C. Lightly

remaining ingredients to the

oil a baking sheet or coat with non stick spray. 2 In a large bowl, combine Panko and parmesan; season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. 3 Working in batches, dredge asparagus in flour, dip into

mixture, egg white, flour, chilli, asparagus and coriander; combine until you have a thick paste like dropping consistency. Carefully drop spoonfuls of mixture into deep fat fryer, pre heated to 170°C, cook until golden.

eggs, then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat. 4 Place asparagus in a single

TO SERVE: A big plate of miso mayo in the

layer onto the prepared baking

middle and fritters and fries

sheet. Place into oven and

served all around!

bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

finely chopped

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keeping active Start/Finish: Walk starts/ends at Honeybourne. Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station at Honeybourne. Please check current timetables. Short-cut from walk route to station via road-bridge or to village of Honeybourne, needs extreme caution. Parking: There are parking spaces scattered around Honeybourne. Please respect residents and park sensitively. O/S Map: Explorer Map 205. Distance: The main walk is 7 miles. Shorter option 4 miles. Time: Allow all day to do main walk. Shorter walk approx. 2 -3 hours. Refreshments: There are no cafes or eating places en route so please take a picnic and enjoy it along the way. Terrain: This walk is not arduous, there are a few gentle slopes, some steps, stiles and gates but apart from a walk around the village it is unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Poles useful in places. Dogs on leads near livestock and traffic please. History: In the Domesday Book, Honeybourne was called ‘Huniburn’ which meant ‘the stream on the banks where honey is gathered’. Honeybourne has two churches, 13th century St. Ecgwyn Church at Church Honeybourne and another dating from 15th century at Cow Honeybourne. These were two separate villages, either side of the Roman Road, Ryknild Street (see sketch-map) and they were in different counties until 1931. In 1953, the two villages were united to form the ‘Honeybourne’, Worcestershire, we know today. Note: Honeybourne is being developed on a number of sites. Please be aware of this in case any footpaths are diverted.

1: Walk starts near converted Church in ‘Cow Honeybourne’, Worcestershire, (formerly in Gloucestershire). Walk almost to ‘Gate Inn’ and take path between houses on right. 2: Cross Roman ‘Ryknild Street’. Turn right, take path on left across stepping stones to late 13th century St. Ecgwyn Church at Church Honeybourne. Down Church drive turn right along footpath behind houses, across Mickleton Road and exit over stile. 3: Go beneath two railway bridges and ‘right’ up drive to cattlegrid. Continue along track between two hedges, parallel to Honeybourne to Stratford line and up slight gradient to railway level. At top, look back at Bredon Hill, Malvern Hills, Dumbleton Hill and spire at ‘Church Honeybourne’. Keep on bridleway with Cotswold Hills running out into Warwickshire and Avon Valley

ahead. Note: shorter walk goes left at brow of hill and zig-zags back to join main walk between points 7 and 8. (see sketch map). 4: Pass through gateway and along right edge of field beneath pylons. Notice railway on right is operational as far as Long Marston. Walk drifts gently downhill to small gate in far right corner of field leading into woodland. Note: If path is impassable, take shorter route across to lane to reach Pebworth, resuming main walk near point 5. (see map). After 80 yards, fork left round corner and out into open field. Walk along grass strip kindly left by farmer (hedge on left) to far left corner. On right is 636 ft high Meon Hill crowned by clump of trees and hill fort. Cross stile and plank over ditch. Walk down left hedge to corner and over double-stiled footbridge. Turn right for 20 yards to right then left walking straight ahead with hedge and ditch on right. In far right corner, cross planked footbridge and next two fields towards Pebworth. 5: Exit into Broad Marston Lane and turn left then right down Friday Street with its pretty thatched cottages. 6: At Back Lane, turn left to explore village and Church. 7: Leave Pebworth along road to ‘ Littletons’, turning left at sharp bend onto footpath that goes southwards in front of a hedge. Walk along right edge of next few fields with hedge on right and Meon Hill now on left. Cross stile, right of way/permitted path goes straight on to stile in far left corner. Continue southwards, gently uphill, along swathe of grass with hedge on right to a sixway junction. (Note: shorter route joins in here at top of Bayliss Hill). Main walk forks right towards Bredon Hill, through large gateway at far end of field and right into double-hedged track. Cross fields via stiles towards Dumbleton Hill to exit onto busy Roman Road near Honeybourne Station. (Note: turn left to station or back to ‘Honeybourne’ avoiding ‘railway crossing’). 8: Cross to Sheenhill Road. Take bridleway on left that zig-zags to crossing over railway (Cross with care). 9: Walk ‘straight’ to line of trees and turn left. Continue, passing caravan park on left. Exit near 13th Century ‘Thatched Tavern’. 10: Turn right towards Church where walk ends. Written and illustrated by glynis dray

honeybourne to pebworth circular 26

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

antartica - the 7th continent Travel to Antarctica has long been in the realm of documentary films and legendary explorers. The ethereal beauty and immense scale of this last great wilderness is like nowhere else on this planet. It excites the imagination of even the most seasoned traveler with images of towering ice walls, vast untouched panoramas and busy penguin rookeries.

lthough myths of a Terra Australis

Gap” because of its magnificent scenery

(Southern Land) date to the time

and wildlife. Humpback and killer whales are

of Aristotle, the first confirmed

common sights in the calm waters between

sighting of the 7th continent did

the sheer cliffs. Icebergs also float these

not occur until 1820. Now, more and more

waters and elephant seals bask on the shores.

people are discovering the seventh continent

With a travel company such as Collette, you’ll

through cruises that embark during the

find yourself leaving the ship via PolarCirkel

Northern Hemisphere’s winter, when the great wilderness covering the South Pole enjoys plentiful daylight during

boats and cruising into small bays and harbors for an in-depth

its brief “summer” and the sea ice permits their approach.

exploration. Make your way to famous places like Whalers Bay on Deception Island, Port Lockroy, Yankee Harbor, and Almirante

Tours usually start in the “Paris of South America”, Buenos Aires.

Brown Research Station.

This lively city offers much in the way of entertainment, history, and culture. From there it is off to Ushuaia, Argentina; its name itself

A trip to Antarctica is much more than a chance to get away for

evokes adventure. This Patagonian peninsula town on the southern

a few days. For many people it’s a defining moment. To seasoned

tip of South America sits between the majestic Martial Mountains

travelers it might mark the crowning achievement to years spent

and the historic and beautiful Beagle Channel. Expedition ships

seeking out singular destinations. Others might have worked hard

cruise south from here toward the Antarctic Peninsula.

and saved for years for that holiday of a lifetime. Well, they don’t get

One of the most beautiful passages these ships traverse is the glacier-lined Lemaire Channel. It’s been nicknamed the “Kodak

any bigger than this. For more information visit Carrick Travel in Pershore.

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living history

Shakespeare’s Flowers by Kerry Goodwin

Chairman, Hugh Edwards, with his wife Maureen, receiving the Chamber of North Staffordshire Lifetime Achievement Award

Queenie’s Van by Emma Bossons FRSA

the evesham collection "The wonderful thing about the Vale of Evesham is that memories tend to linger, whether they spring from the almost cloying, perfumed sweetness of ripe plums, rows upon rows of colourful gillies (wallflowers), asparagus, spring onions or the soft rustle of a breeze through a plum orchard scattering in its path, petals of white blossom like snowflakes in springtime." - Hugh Edwards.

ounded to the east by the Cotswold Hills and to

their school to nearby Stratford-upon-Avon to watch one or

the west by the Malvern Hills, the Vale of Evesham,

other of Shakespeare’s plays.

in all its beauty, is said by many to be the gentle, beating heart of England, a place to fall in love with

the moment you arrive. At its centre stands Bredon Hill and, at just over 1000 feet high, it is technically a mountain shaped like a loaf of bread with a flat top and the stone built Parsons Folly stuck curiously at one end. It was in the Vale of Evesham that the couple who are today credited with saving Moorcroft from bankruptcy and oblivion back in the mid-1980s, spent their childhood. With just four years separating them, it was between their studies at the same school, that the two learned, in their separate ways and in different places, how to graft fruit trees, grow vegetables in their gardens and fish for a family supper in Shakespeare’s Avon. They picked plums and apples to earn pocket money, supplemented their meagre income harvesting strawberries and blackcurrants and usually alone, they walked the

In recognition of their 30-year contribution to Moorcroft (a second career for both of them), Maureen and Hugh Edwards were given unrestricted access to the Moorcroft Design Studio to whose members they divulged a whole basketful of stories and dreams about the Vale of Evesham. These are now embodied in a unique collection of Moorcroft, each piece individually designed and crafted at what today is said to be the finest art pottery in the world. It is a collection born of love for two people who abandoned successful careers to ensure that Moorcroft survived. Those baskets of fruit, flowers, mushrooms and berries they once picked have been transformed from dreams of the past into the gentle, yet colourful, reality of today. It is a collection to be enjoyed because captured within every piece is a story waiting to be told to those fortunate enough to take it home.

hedgerows and fields gathering mushrooms for breakfast

Because of the intensely personal nature of the pieces

and picking blackberries for jam to be made at home mixed

comprised in The Evesham Collection, Moorcroft invited Hugh

with Codlin apples. There were few luxuries for either of

to write the story giving rise to the designer’s inspiration for

them, but one very real luxury was the weekly coach from

each piece. To the pleasure of all concerned, he agreed.

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

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in the area

spring in evesham In the springtime, the Vale of Evesham is adorned with blossom. Hillsides rising from the Avon shimmer with plum white and apple pink, and country lanes deliver views into orchards. This is the perfect occasion to follow the 45 mile AA signed

Blossom Trail by car, coach or bicycle, to appreciate the views across the Vale and eat in a local pub or restaurant.

f walking is your thing, the Blossom Trail has three

Festival and celebrates St George’s Day. This seasonal

different routes designed with blossom in mind to offer

tradition sees a “100” round of the finest Vale asparagus

you the best views of the countryside and its unblemished

transported in true “Asum style”.

blossom. Blossom Walks Packs are available from local

Tourist Information Centres for £2.95 or call Angela Tidmarsh

The famous Asparagus Auctions on Sunday 29 May and 5

on 01386 565373.

June, take place at the Fleece Inn, a National Trust property

If you prefer exploring on two wheels why not celebrate the

sees hundreds gather in the courtyard to bid for the

Blossom Trail with the annual Bikeaway on Sunday 10 April

season’s largest freshest local asparagus, it has attracted

starting from Raphael’s Restaurant, Evesham. The event provides

media coverage including BBC’s Countryfile and Terry

a choice of four routes around the Vale of Evesham to suit all ages

and Mason’s Great Food Trip. The Fleece Inn provides a

and capabilities, whilst raising money for St John Ambulance

heart warming venue for all visitors throughout the entire

and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. For

asparagus season and will be welcoming families on Monday

an application form please contact Henry Prudden on 01386

30 May for their Asparagus Family Fun Day.

565564 or email henry.prudden@wychavon.gov.uk.

in Bretforton, these auctions prove a popular ritual that

AsparaFest, a boutique festival providing an A-Z of weekend

Experience an historical and entertaining coach tour of the

entertainment will take place on weekend of the 4 and 5 June

delightful apple and plum orchards throughout the Vale of

at Ashdown Farm near Badsey. With a mix of magical music,

Evesham. With your own tour guide providing a wonderful

the freshest of food, fascinating farm and country crafts,

sightseeing journey, it promises to be an interesting and

barrels of beer and awesome asparagus!

enjoyable day out. This value for money tour will be picking up at various points throughout the county on Wednesday 13 and 20 April. Booking is essential, for details call Dudley’s

As well as all these asparagus related events, 2016 welcomes back the Dudley’s Coaches Asparabus Tours delivering you

coaches on 01386 792206.

a value for money “Asparagus Experience” around the Vale of

Also in April the asparagus season begins, starting on 23 April

come complete with an asparaguide to provide you with an

and continuing until 21 June. This year the Vale of Evesham will be

entertaining insight into this majestic green vegetable.

going asparamad once again with numerous events taking place throughout the area providing the opportunity to taste, buy, cook and learn about one of the nations most sought after delicacies. The Great English Asparagus Run kick-starts the Asparagus

ISSUE ONE SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

Evesham. Tours take place on Wednesday 11 and 18 May and

For more information on the local area and its events please visit www.visitwychavon.com and

for

all

your

asparagus

www.britishasparagusfestival.org

news

visit

SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE

N W we will be delivering even more copies to more homes and are now looking for distributors in the following areas: STRATFORD¯UPON¯AVON KENILWORTH WARWICK

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golden years

it pays to plan for the future Many of us find it hard to think about making a will or putting the right legal documents in place to protect our interests should we ever lose the capacity to make certain important decisions ourselves. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easier to bury our heads in the sand than contemplate what the future might hold.

planning

appoint one or more people to help

loved ones at what is already a

you make certain decisions, or to

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knows what lies ahead and

make those decisions for you, should

potentially costly and lengthy court

any one of us could fall

you ever lose the capacity to make

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victim to accident or illness. There

those decisions yourself. It is the

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with an acquired brain injury every

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property and financial affairs LPA covers

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welfare LPA covers issues from your

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will, the law decides what happens and this may not be in line with your wishes. Writing a will is particularly important if you have children or other family who depend on you, or if you want

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what happens, no matter what the

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COMPETITION

Win a luxury night for two at

Wood norton's amazing wedding venue! Nestled discreetly within the Vale of Evesham, The Wood Norton is a beautifully crafted grade II listed

Victorian manor house, originally built for French royalty.

ollowing an extensive refurbishment programme

and canapes on the front lawn, overlooking the cascading

during 2012, the hotel reopened, maintaining its

Worcestershire countryside. An intimate exchange of vows in

original 19th Century French decorative interiors

the hotel’s wood panelled hall. The gathering of close family

throughout, combined with the very best the

and friends in our impressive events suit, The Orangery.

modern world has to offer. All team members work hard to ensure each and every

Norton's original Royal Wedding of Princess Louise of

guest enjoys a first class experience from arrival, enhanced

Orleans, the hotel has launched a new all-inclusive 2016

by The Wood Norton’s recent appointment of Head Chef,

summer wedding special offer, available for dates between

Kieran Hunt. In just a matter of weeks Kieran has completely

mid-July to mid-September.

transformed the hotel’s fine dining experience, combining innovative and conventional cooking methods to create

The Wood Norton is delighted to launch their Off Peak 2017

mouthwatering dishes to suit all tastes.

Wedding Offer. For just £4440 couples can enjoy the wedding

In late 2013, The Wood Norton wowed local residents and

breakfast, drinks package and evening food for 60 guests,

brides alike with the introduction of its very own events

together with a number of exciting extras, such as reduced

suite ‘The Orangery’ - and is now one of Worcestershire’s

accommodation rates, your very own wedding co-ordinator

leading wedding venues and establishments for functions

to help with your pre wedding planning and Dinner for the

and corporate events.

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Weddings at The Wood Norton

For more details, please email Sandie Griffiths

of their dreams, including a delicious three course wedding

From the moment you approach The Wood Norton, you

at weddings@thewoodnorton.com or call

can imagine the wedding of your dreams. Arrival drinks

the hotel directly on 01386 765 611.

Competition

For your chance to win a luxury night for two at The Wood Norton, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Which Royal Princess was married at The Wood Norton in November 1907? Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: The Wood Norton SWN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 27th April 2016. Prize details: Included in the prize will be a delicious three course dinner crafted by new Head Chef Kieran Hunt, an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s top suites and a full English breakfast for the following morning. ISSUE ONE

In celebration of the 109th anniversary of The Wood

SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE Now APRIL 2016

Answer: Name:

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

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2016 Leamington Music

Festival Weekend Royal Pump Rooms

Friday 29 April to Tuesday 3 May

ince 1990 one of the

The programmes in the eleven