South Warwickshire Now October 2019

South

Warwickshire AND NORTH COTSWOLDS

Now

Exciting Development

at Aylesbury Park

ENERGY SAVING IDEAS All THINGS PINK What’s on this halloween october 2019 | Issue 40

PI C I’m K M FR E U EE P

Cameron Homes is offering a collection of beautifully designed properties for sale.

Turn to page 21 for more details

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HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK • WALKS • HEALTH & BEAUTY • WHAT’S ON • COMPETITIONS

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South

Warwickshire AND NORTH COTSWOLDS

Now

Contents

20 14

OCTOBER 2019

HERE & NOW

22

04 All the latest news from around Warwickshire.

24

Home & Garden 14 Keeping warm this winter

COMPETITION 20 Win an overnight stay in a treehouse

HEALTH & BEAUTY 22 All things pink 24 The benefits of yoga

What’s ON

30

30 Halloween fun this October

south

warwickshire

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazines.co.uk

2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

editor

Advertising

Contributors

Dawn Pardoe PW Media & Publishing Ltd dawn@pw-media.co.uk

Emma Cox 01905 727902 emma@pw-media.co.uk

Our walk writer Glynis Dray had an accident whilst riding her bike and has damaged her hand.

There is no walk in this issue and I am sure you will join with us in wishing her a speedy recovery.

Kate Gilmartin 01905 727905 kate@pw-media.co.uk

Age UK Daisy Bennett Total Fitness Wyevale Garden Centre

design Daisy Bennett daisy@pw-media.co.uk

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 South Warwickshire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA

Get yourself in the musical mood

As the holidays approach, why not join Leamington Music for its Christmas Festival, and get yourself in the musical mood?

The Festival comprises three very varied concerts; the first is The Mellstock Band’s Christmas Frolics in the Lord Leycester Hospital, Warwick on Tuesday 3 December - an evening of carolling and carousing in English Tradition with songs, tunes and tales

from Hardy’s Wessex.

Stile Antico takes us back in time to Renaissance Spain on Tuesday 10 December in St Mary’s Church, Warwick with A Spanish Nativity, which will be colourful whirl of sumptuous polyphony and infectiously joyful folk dances.

Then, on Wednesday 18 December we celebrate Christmas with The Carice Singers

in a glorious concert of favourite carols and seasonal vocal works in St Mark’s Church, Leamington which is the town’s Victorian finest.

With mulled wine and mince pies included in every ticket, a celebration this will be!

Tickets and details on www.leamingtonmusic. org or call 01926 334418 to book today.

Name a Shakespearean Guide Dog Stratford’s popular and free to enter Arts Fair Discover:Gather:Give returns to the historic Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall over the weekend of 2 & 3 November. Alongside the 40 exceptional artists with an exciting and eclectic mix of paintings, illustrations, ceramics, jewellery, glasswork, decoupage, textiles, wood turning, digital art, sculpture, upcycling steampunk and book binding, visitors will also be able to vote to name a Shakespeare’s Puppy Guide Dog. The Arts Fair Discover:Gather:Give was set up in 2014 to raise monies for Shakespeare’s Puppies Appeal to sponsor a Guide dog and after raising £2,500 the puppy now needs a Shakespearian name! Visitors can vote for their favourite name by donating

for Ariel, Briar or Curtis, the name with the most donations will be the name given to the puppy.

As always the fabulous Golden Cup Cafe situated upstairs in the Ballroom will be shimmering with golden teapots and vintage golden tea sets on crisp white linen tablecloths with fresh flowers where visitors can enjoy an excellent cup of tea, a delicious coffee from Monsoon Estates, moreish cake or a snippet of biscuit.

The Arts Fair is open to the public on 2 November from 10.30am – 5pm and on 3 November from 10.30am - 4pm.

To find out more information please visit www.discovergathergive.co.uk

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA Creating something special with Escape Arts MORE than two decades ago when Karen Williams established a small arts project in Warwickshire, she didn’t dream it would evolve into the success story it has become today.

A passion for the arts alongside a sense of frustration at an increasing lack of creative resource in the community, inspired Escape Art’s co-founder to follow her dream – and today she is the driving force behind its continued growth and success.

Escape Arts became a charity in 2003, as a result of two local projects: Escape founded by ceramic artist Robin Wade in 1997 and Community Art in Action, founded by Karen in the same year. Their shared vision for a creative arts community group to aid health and wellbeing, quickly won hearts and minds and today it is recognised and respected on both sides of the county, where it operates out of two main hubs, in Stratford and Nuneaton.

More projects meant Escape Arts also needed more room to grow, and soon found themselves moving out of Robin’s garden studio and taking over five unoccupied shop units in Stratford’s town centre, transforming them into a vibrant gallery, youth music and film studio, office, home for Stratford Men In Sheds and a huge community arts space.

2014 marked the biggest milestone for the charity when it was awarded a share of a £1 million Community Funding Challenge led

by Stratford Town Trust. Where to invest this money was instinctive - new premises – to be precise, a Grade II-listed former 15th-Century cobbler, Tudor pub and slaughterhouse now sitting derelict in Stratford! Over the course of the 22 years Escape has been ably supported by a loyal army of volunteers, now numbering more than 150 and they can all reflect on the thousands of people whose lives they enhanced through a host of cultural and creative projects.

The charity is only able to continue its good work through continued funding support. Any businesses who are interested in sponsoring or partnering with the charity are invited to contact karenwilliams@escapearts.org.uk

Grieving parents back drowning campaign Grieving parents whose children drowned whilst at university, are backing a national water safety, behaviour change campaign, urging students to stay away from the water on their night out and leave no one behind.

Tom Jones 18 (Worcester), Daniel Williams 19 (Reading), Megan Roberts 20 (York), Orlando Nyero 19 and 19-year-old Charlie Pope (both in Manchester), are just some of the students who’ve drowned after ending up in the water when they walked home alone after they’d been drinking with friends.

Parents of Tom, Megan and Charlie, desperate to prevent further tragedies, are pledging their support to the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK) Don’t Drink and Drown campaign, that ran from 12-19 September, that aimed to cut down the number of alcohol-related drowning accidents that happen in the UK every year.

A staggering 70 young people, aged between 18 and 21, have drowned in the last five years whist under the influence, and 93% of these were male. As part of the Don’t Drink and Drown campaign, Vicki and Ian Jones revealed new water

rescue equipment near the spot where their son, Tom, is thought to have fallen into the River Severn during Fresher’s Week last September. As part of the campaign, universities, police services, fire and rescue services, pubs and clubs, and a range of other organisations work with the RLSS UK to run events across the UK, talking to revellers in club queues, at shopping centres and on campuses about the importance of walking home together, away from the water.

Following Tom’s death, a collaborative effort is taking place across West Mercia, through the Police and Crime Commissioners Home and Dry Network to raise awareness of water safety. Worcester City Council and the University of Worcester have both pledged their support.

Reach and Rescue develops long-reach, telescopic water rescue poles, that enable emergency services and members of the public to carry out swift and accurate rescues, by retrieving casualties in water from safe distances, minimising the danger posed to themselves and boosting the casualty’s survival chances.

Local optician raises money for cancer charity Richard Fantom of Richard Fantom Eyecare cycled from London to Paris to raise funds for Bloodwise on 19-22 September 2019.

In August 2012 Richard was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma. Only a few months earlier he had felt healthy and well but by the time he was diagnosed with this very aggressive cancer he was gravely ill. He received superb treatment at the University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire and was lucky enough to make a good recovery.

He had intended to ride London to Paris in September 2018 but was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in June 2018. He is hoping to raise as much money as he can

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for Bloodwise, a charity to support those affected by Blood Cancers.

For more details or to sponsor Richard Fantom London to Paris contact Richard Fantom, 15a High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4BQ or donate at justgiving.com/ fundraising/richard-fantom-l2p

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Home & Garden

Indoors out

As we adopt ‘greener’ shopping habits, diets and lifestyles, the boundaries between the indoors and out are becoming increasingly blurred, with the trend set to reach new heights this year. Interiors are transforming into jungle-like environments, while garden designs are now reflecting the styles and layouts of interior space, with separate areas to dine, entertain, relax and be active.

Bigger, Bolder and Greener For Brits, size really does matter. Statement plants and feature foliage are set to be huge in all senses of the word for 2019, replacing soft furnishings throughout the home, as well as styling cafes, restaurants and other public spaces.

Though bold and dramatic in their aesthetic; oversized plants also have cool and calming effects, helping Brits to create tranquil jungles throughout their living spaces.

garden.

Tropical and botanical styles continue to trend, with 2019 welcoming increased ranges of indoor palms, such as the elephant ear (Alocasia), banana plant (Musa), bird of paradise (Strelitzia), aspidistra (Aspidistra elatior) and fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata). Low maintenance and easily portable, these houseplants are often found in multiple rooms throughout the home.

Leafy houseplants are bringing new dimensions to minimalist interiors while adding depth and texture to a neutral colour palette, often used as screens between openplan rooms. Where side-tables once stood and fireplaces sit empty, layered displays of greenery and low-level planted pots are now filling the spot.

Room to Grow The garden often serves as a multi-functional space - a place to retreat and relax, as well as to entertain, grow fresh produce and for children to play. Gardeners are introducing subtle ways of differentiating between these areas to allow the many demands of the garden to coexist together, while making best use of the space.

Cheese plants (Monstera deliciosa), kentia palms (Howea forsteriana), areca palms (Dypsis lutescens), rubber plants (Ficus elastica) and yuccas (Yucca elephantipes) are increasingly popular due to their interesting cut-out leaf designs, which have filtered through to home interiors and accessories as well as outdoor cushions and picnic crockery.

With neighbours often being in close quarters, Brits are seeking ways to create secluded spots within the garden, and are turning to plants as a way to screen from any prying eyes. Towering, upright grasses and fast-growing evergreen bamboos have seen a huge surge in sales, providing privacy while also evoking a sense of calm and order in the

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The plants-as-furniture trend is also spurring a new demand for plants that create instant shade for patio space. With summers predicted to get hotter and sunnier, ornamental trees for patio pots, bamboo and fast-growing shrubs are set to be increasingly popular. Wyevale Garden Centres has introduced more instant impact plants for 2019, from grasses to instant hedging and statement pots for large specimens, making it even easier to create a statement in limited time, all landing in centres in time for spring.

Sophisticated Styling Our gardens today are often smaller and yet much more important to us visually as a statement of our identity – a private space to enjoy as well as showcase to the world via social media. More than ever, Brits are using sophisticated rugs, cushions, swing seats, solar lighting, sofas and other interior-style products to recreate home space outdoors.

Gardens have become an extension of our homes – the ‘fifth room’ - with the style of our kitchens and living rooms flowing effortlessly outdoors through the blurred boundaries of Continued over the page

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Home & Garden bi-fold doors.

Homes are welcoming industrial-style finishes, with bare brickwork and concrete elements, and gardens are adopting the tones and materials of their surroundings. Rustic paving is being used to marry the home and garden, while pots, planters and furniture are being favoured in grey, earthy finishes that offer a muted palette as a foundation to be accessorised.

Outdoor Plant Gifting As the nation steers away from ‘singleuse’ items and towards more sustainable, long-lasting alternatives, the gift sector is welcoming some colourful new additions.

The trend stems from Brits’ desire to achieve value for money and longevity with each purchase. When sourcing new plants, nearly a quarter of Brits claim ‘how long they will live’ to be the most important factor. These savvy, eco-conscious shoppers are behind the emerging trend for gifting outdoor plants – a relatively new concept following houseplant gifting and the more traditional cut-flower bouquets. n For more information and to find nearest Wyevale Garden Centre www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

your visit

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Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

Keeping warm in winter With winter approaching fast and the cold nights drawing in, it’s easy to head straight for the thermostat and turn the heat up. But with the rising costs of energy prices throughout the UK, households are trying to find the best way to cut down on how much gas they are using. We take a look at the eco-friendly ways you can help heat the home without spending a fortune and reduce your carbon footprint.

Consistent heat Boosting heat can use up more energy than constantly having the heating on. By keeping the temperature on a low setting, we are not wasting energy charging up the thermostat every time. Set your heating to come on just before you get up and switch off after you’ve gone to bed. If it is very cold, set your heating to come on earlier and n 14 | South Warwickshire and North Cotswolds Now | Issue 40 | October 2019

turn off later rather than turning the thermostat up.

Open the oven door.

The warmest room in the house is going to be the kitchen whilst cooking. After using the oven, keep the door open, to release the excess heat left over from cooking. The high temperatures from the oven can help heat the kitchen and nearby rooms.

Do not use an oven to solely heat your home as there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Only open the door after cooking, whilst the oven is turned off.

Keep internal doors closed.

Trap heat in the room you’re in by closing the doors. If you can still feel a slight draught coming in from underneath the door, use a draught excluder or thick mat to keep any cold out. Watch out for cracks or small holes that heat can escape Continued over the page

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Home & Garden from. Any gaps can be filled with a sealant, or even rolled up newspaper if you’re on a budget. Close curtains and keep windows closed when the sun isn’t shining Don’t block the heat Don’t cover radiators when they’re on. Trapping the heat with wet..or dry clothes can cause the radiators to work harder and work less efficiently. The room will stay colder if the radiator is working too hard to heat a single item.

Instead use an airer, not only will it dry your clothes without using too much space, but will help get rid of creases in your laundry. Keep them next to direct sunlight to help your clothes dry quicker. If your home has higher ceilings, you may find it takes a long time to heat the whole home.

A quick tip to help prevent long use of central heating is to place a shelf above your radiator helping to circulate the heat, rather than let it rise to the ceiling.

Invest in a winter throw Keep your bed or sofa cosy by investing in a thick winter throw. Not only will it be aesthetically pleasing but will also be insulating and cosy throughout the colder months.

Stay mobile It is very important to stay active during cold spells, even if you’re inside. Don’t sit still for more than an hour, get up and walk around to stretch your legs – even moderate exercise can help keep you warm and help circulation.

When sitting down, try to keep your feet raised as the floor will be much cooler than the air above it.

Put a jumper on!

As Jim Royle would say, it’s better to put a jumper on

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than turn the heating on. It’s easier to change your body temperature than the room temperature, so dress in layers to help trap the heat and keep you warm. Several layers work better than one, especially if they’re fleecy material, and don’t forget your slippers and thermal underwear!

Use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket to keep you warm in bed. But be careful not to use both at the same time!

Eat regularly According to the NHS website, www.nhs.uk, you should eat at least one hot meal a day during the winter as eating regularly helps keep you warm; and make sure you have hot drinks regularly.

Install a digital thermostat.

There are many benefits from changing to a programmable thermostat and many homeowners are making the switch.

From being able to maintain a consistent temperature allowing increased efficiency, homeowners have spent less time fiddling around with their old thermostat and more time saving money by being able to programme their ideal temperature on a daily basis Check on vulnerable people It is also vitally important to check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives to make sure they are warm and have enough to eat during the cold snap. n

By Daisy Bennett

Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

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COMPETITION Home & Garden

COMPETITION WHAT’S WHAT’SON ON

Win an overnight stay and Champagne welcome basket at

Will's Tree House

South Warwickshire and North Cotswolds Now Magazine has teamed up with Winchcombe Farm Holidays in Upper Tysoe to offer one lucky reader and three guests the chance to win a night’s stay in Will’s Tree House – Warwickshire’s very first holiday home tree house.

Winchcombe Farm is home to three bespoke luxury holiday homes nestling in an idyllic Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the rolling Warwickshire countryside on the North East tip of the Cotswolds, and lies beneath the famous landmark battleground of Edgehill.

The prize winner will be welcomed with a Champagne hamper at the breathtaking architecturally designed structure, which nestles in four sycamore and ash trees with three of them poking through the outside deck and one growing through the kitchen!

The woodland area which the tree house sits in is a children’s paradise (and some adults too!) with pirate ship, lookout tower, climbing frame for toddlers and ground- level trampoline.

This luxurious abode has a bubbling hot tub situated on a lower deck and an outdoor shower hidden in a private alcove.

Designed with outdoor living in mind, the huge tree-lined partcovered deck area is extremely well equipped with charcoal pizza oven, gas barbeque, hanging chairs, hammock and dining area.

The spacious main living area houses a comfy king size bed and some ingenious full size single bunk beds imported from France, that fold down from a hidden cabin behind the sofa. It also has a fully fitted kitchen and bathroom.

Winchcombe Farm Holidays has two further lodges – Bob’s Lodge (sleeps 8) and the Chicken Shed (sleeps 5), both with private hot tubs and geodesic domes for stargazing, which can be viewed at www.winchcombefarm.co.uk or call 01295 680190 for details.

And, after a busy first year of trading, the couple’s vision for the future is already taking shape with building work on a new lodge just being completed. The new three-bedroom luxury lodge will sleeps between 6-8 people and features will include a geodesic dome or tepee on raised platform and spacious decking, plus private hot tub.

Early plans for the second – and largest lodge - include four bedrooms and three bathrooms plus private hot tub.

Will’s Tree House – originally converted from the former nursery forest school classroom – is also set for an expansion with the couple planning to create one of only a handful of treehouses in the country that will sleep six people.

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Visit the South Warwickshire Now Facebook page for details on how to enter!

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EDUCATION

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HEALTH EDUCATION & BEAUTY

Pretty in Pink From clocks to toasters, bras to candles, this month we take a look at all things pink.

LETTER CHARM NECKLACE £149 Choose your initial or your lover’s or kids’ or dogs initial - the choice is your! Then your favourite charm and then the finish.

Handcrafted in the UK Made from 18ct pink gold vermeil. www.janareinhardt.com

BLOOM & GLOW FACE OIL £20.50 This is a wonderful oil great for nousishing, repairing, softening, brightening and boosting radiance to your skin. www.angelalangford.com

1950s PINK METAL WALL CLOCK £19.95 Throw back to the 1950’s with this super retro wall clock in pink! www.rexlondon.com

BEOPLAY H8i £350 Immerse yourself in your music LIFT, SLIM AND SHAPE with premium, wireless, on-ear SKINNY JEANS ANC headphones with Bang £45 & Olufsen Signature Sound, www.next.co.uk luxurious materials and a streamlined, lightweight design – ideal for your daily commute or longer journeys. www.bang-olufsen.com

FOX & IVY CRACKLE TEALIGHT HOLDER £4 These stunning tealight holders are a perfect addition to any home.

Available to buy in store at Tesco stores throughout the UK

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Cloud Robe in Pink

£58 Pretty You London’s textured faux fur Cloud robes are light and luxurious with an oversized hood and luxury lining for added warmth. www.prettyyoulondon.co.uk Heart Eye Sleep Mask £9.99 For the amorous and cute light sleeper this Heart Eye Sleep Mask is the ideal accessory for blocking out the world and getting some well earned rest www.prezzybox.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Special edition pink Matador armchair £1395 The clean lines, angular silhouette and tapered back of this modern take on the traditional wing back chair perfectly partner the bold zig zag design of Clarke & Clarke’s velvet Empire fabric in the Orchid colourway creating a striking statement piece for any space with a positive impact on the lives of others. For each one of these stunning chairs sold in the month of October, Content by Terence Conran will donate over £200 per chair (15%) to Pink Ribbon Foundation, the celebrated breast cancer grantmaking trust to help them continue their vital work. www.contentbyterenceconran.com

Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 100ML £110 Elemis are proud to continue supporting Breast Cancer Care for another year with the supersized Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 100ML. Our No 1 bestselling moisturiser is clinically proven* to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in just 14 days giving the skin a feeling of firmness and elasticity. Elemis will be donating £25,000 to Breast Cancer Care. www.elemis.com FUSCHIA PINK VEST £19.95 Online fashion brand Damart is once again showing its support Breast Cancer Now, with its redesigned, limited-edition fuchsia pink vest. The vest costs £17 with £5 from every sale going to the charity. www.damart.co.uk

Maisie’ bra (in blush pink) £19.95 Royce Lingerie, the world’s only dedicated wirefree bra specialist, will donate £1 to the charity Against Breast Cancer for every post-surgery bra sold throughout October via www.royce-lingerie.co.uk. The charity donation also applies to any pocketed bra (pockets are available on request on all styles excluding sports and teen bras).

Dualit Classic Four-Slice Toaster in Petal Pink for Breast Cancer Haven, £195 Iconic British manufacturer, Dualit is proud to be continuing its support for national charity, Breast Cancer Haven with its muchloved Classic Four-Slice Toaster in Petal Pink. Available all year from www.dualit.com/ haven exclusively, retailing at £195 with Breast Cancer Haven receiving a £20 donation from each sale.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ten reasons

to take up yoga

Whether you’re looking to take up a new hobby, want to make positive changes to your health regime, or are simply looking for an excuse to get out of the house, yoga could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

The ancient artform has been practiced since 3000 BC and studies estimate that there are currently around 300 million people practicing yoga worldwide. But what are the benefits? Is it really as good as it seems? We look at the top ten reasons to take up yoga.

RELEASE TENSION If you’ve ever found yourself with a sore back or aching shoulders from being hunched over a desk all day, yoga could be the release you need. It offers a huge array of stretches to improve mobility and release tension throughout the body. Shoulder flossing is one example of a technique that most of us in office jobs could benefit from implementing on a daily basis. This simple stretching technique mobilises the entire shoulder joint throughout its entire range of motion. It does this by freeing up space behind the joint - a heavily congested area associated with neck and thoracic spine stiffness if not managed correctly.

BOOST IMMUNITY If you’re prone to colds, headaches and sore throats then chances are you’re doing one, if not all, of the following; working long hours, not getting enough sleep, or burning the candle at both ends. Deep breathing during yoga ensures enough oxygen is being sent to the parts of your body that need it most, whilst many of the poses increase blood flow to the sinuses, helping to ease congestion.

INCREASE BRAIN FUNCTION Exercising the brain through meditation in this way is shown to improve brain performance in those key cerebral cortex areas and aids learning new skills. So, in essence, yoga could actually make you smarter!

BEAT BLOATING Ever wished there was a quick way to relieve bloating? Yoga poses can be used reduce bloating quickly and efficiently. Activities that improve blood circulation and stretch out the body will help to release the build-up of gas and fluids in the body. Try lying on your back and hugging your knees into your chest to achieve a nice stretch and get that circulation moving.

IMPROVE BREATHING Once again, those of us in office jobs are found to be at a disadvantage and in this instance may not be breathing correctly. Practicing yoga stretches out the body, opening the chest area to allow for full, deep breaths and a healthy intake of oxygen. Practicing regularly strengthens n 24 | South Warwickshire and North Cotswolds Now | Issue 40 | October 2019

the lungs and improves posture for a better quality of respiration, even when away from the mat.

SWEAT OUT IMPURITIES Sweating through exercise is a good way to cleanse the skin of nasties, so why not take it to the next level with hot yoga, like Bikram or Vinyasa, to up the ante? Practicing at a higher temperature demands more energy and encourages the body to sweat more, which has fantastic detoxifying benefits as it removes toxins, grime and bacteria from the pores.

FIND A STYLE THAT SUITS YOU If hot yoga isn’t your cup of tea then why not try one of many cooler practices of yoga. Alongside Bikram and Vinyasa there is also, Hatha yoga, which covers any style of yoga involving breathing and simple poses - this is a good one for beginners and those wanting to enter a relaxed state of mind. There are plenty of different types of yoga so you’re sure to find a style that suits your individual needs.

PRACTICE MINDFULNESS The 21st century is fast-paced. We could all benefit from slowing down and taking a little time for ourselves here and there. Spending half an hour to an hour practicing yoga a few times a week is a great way to slow down and be mindful of our surroundings. Yoga encourages those practicing to elongate the spine, open out the chest and breathe deeply and slowly to increase oxygen supply to the brain.

SOCIALISE Yoga classes like the ones offered at Total Fitness are a great way to meet new people or commit to regular face-to-face time with friends.

Practicing with a friend or meeting someone at your local class will help you commit to that regular exercise regime as it gives you a reason to not skip your practice - you can hold each other accountable for showing up to class each week.

YOGA IS FOR EVERYONE Historically, there has been a stigma surrounding yoga, with many believing it to be a woman’s activity. However, a recent study by Total Fitness concluded revealed that this sentiment is outdated and there is in fact a significant percentage of men who have practiced or would like to practice yoga – 34% to be exact.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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SENIOR LIVING

Protecting yourself from

doorstep scams

Doorstep scams take place when someone comes to your door and tries to scam you out of your money or tries to gain access to your home.

Doorstep scammers aren’t always pushy and persuasive, they may seem polite or friendly. So if you’re not expecting someone it’s important to be vigilant when you answer the door, especially if you live on your own.

It can be very easy to fall victim to a scam, but you can be scam savvy if you know what to look out for.

What are some common types of doorstep scams?

There are many different types of doorstep scams, some of the most common ones include: Rogue traders A cold-caller may offer you a service you don’t really need. They may claim to have noticed something about your property that needs work or improvement, such as the roof, and offer to fix it for cash or an inflated price.

Bogus officials People claim to be from your utility company as a way of gaining access to your home. Always check the ID of any official, and if they’re genuine they won’t mind waiting while you check.

Fake charity collections A fraudster may pretend they’re from a charity and ask you to donate money, clothes or household goods. Legitimate charities will all have a charity number that can be checked on the Charity Commission n 26 | South Warwickshire and North Cotswolds Now | Issue 40 | October 2019

website.

Made-up consumer surveys Some scammers ask you to complete a survey so they can get hold of your personal details, or use it as a cover for persuading you to buy something you don’t want or need.

Hard luck stories Someone may come to your door and ask you to help them out with cash, ask to use your telephone or claim they’re feeling unwell. The story is made up and intended to con you out of your money or gain access to your home.

How can I protect myself from doorstep scams?

There are things you can do to feel safer when answering the door, such as; Putting up a deterrent sign: You could put a ‘no cold callers’ sign up on your door or window, which should deter any cold callers from knocking on your door.

Setting up passwords for utilities: You can set up a password with your utility companies to be used by anyone they send round to your home.

Phone your utility company to find out how to do this.

Nominating a neighbour: Find out if you have a nominated neighbour scheme where a neighbour can help to make sure if callers are safe.

Contact your local Neighbourhood Watch or your local Safer Neighbourhood police team to find out more. n www.ageuk.org.uk

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EDUCATION

Warwickshire schools are top in tackling bullying England’s worst areas for school bullying have been revealed in new research that has explored the number of exclusions across the country.

Using the latest Department for Education data, Oxford Home Schooling identified the regions which have experienced the biggest increases and decreases in bullying exclusions between 2011/12 and 2016/17.

New research from Oxford Home Schooling analysed Department for Education data to identify the regions seeing the biggest increases and decreases in the number of exclusions for bullying.

Since 2012, Warwickshire has seen a 64% decrease, from 91 down to 33, which is a better rate than any other local authority in the region.

This is significantly better than the average for both the West Midlands The East of England is by far the biggest bullying hotspot, with the area seeing a 16% increase in the number of fixed-term and permanent exclusions for this reason over the five years. This is over five times the percentage increase of any other English region, with the North East coming second with a rise of 3%.

More specifically, eleven local authorities saw their figures more than double in this time. Staggeringly, exclusions in Wolverhampton nearly quintupled, with a massive 386% increase, while schools in Hartlepool witnessed a 233% jump.

However, across the country, the situation looks less bleak, with the national average of exclusions for bullying dropping by 5.6% over the time period. In 2016/17, there were 4,275 such exclusions in English schools, or 82 a week - fewer than in 2011/12, when there were 4,530 cases recorded (87 a week).

Schools in the West Midlands are the best performing in this regard, with the area experiencing 20% fewer bullying exclusions in 2016/17 than five years previously.

The English regions which saw the biggest increases and decreases in the number of school exclusions for bullying are: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9)

East of England - 16% increase North East - 3% increase East Midlands - 1% increase Inner London - 1% increase South West - 0% change Outer London - 1% decrease Yorkshire and Humber - 3% decrease North West - 14% decrease South East - 17% decrease

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10) West Midlands - 20% decrease Dr Nick Smith, principal at Oxford Home Schooling, said: “The sad truth is that bullying is rife across English schools - in fact, our previous research[2] revealed that more than three in five Brits were bullied at least once while in education.

“However, it is encouraging to see that in many areas the numbers of exclusions for bullying are decreasing. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that bullying is becoming less of an issue, it might suggest that schools are taking measures to deal with the problem, rather than just removing the children involved.

“Anecdotally, nearly half of the parents who enrol their children with Oxford Home Schooling list bullying amongst their reasons for doing so. If your child is being bullied at school, then home education is a viable solution.” n

EDUCATION

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What's On October Saturday 5th The Stratford Town Ghost Walk Award-winning Ghost Walk in Shakespeare’s ‘haunted’ Stratford upon Avon. Join Vincent, Herbert, MIB or Jocasta for a magical evening walk around the ‘haunted’ streets of Stratford upon Avon. The stories you hear are true, what you make of them, is up to you. Good old-fashioned storytelling with entertainment. Discover the buildings seeping with tales of ghosts, witches, murder and misery. Hear about the witch who lived in a slum, a 17th century haunted tearoom, the theatre ghost and a jilted bride. Don’t go home alone! Every Saturday - 7.30pm to 9pm.

Book on the day or a few days before: 07855760377.

Sunday 6th Sing-a-long Productions, The Greatest Showman Sing-a-long-a Productions, producers of Sing-a-long-a Sound of Music and Sing-a-long-a Grease brings you their newest show, the smash hit film musical that everyone can’t stop singing – The Greatest Showman!

Cheer on Hugh Jackman, lust after Zac Efron and hiss Rebecca Ferguson (…or maybe not) as you experience The Greatest Showman in the greatest way possible – with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud as you want. The event takes place at Butterworth Hall, Warwick Arts Centre. Tickets: £18 Under 16s £14.

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OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH Warwick Chocolate Festival A firm favourite at Sketts HQ is the Warwick Chocolate festival. With up to 30 stalls all providing something chocolate based, what’s not to love? From artisan chocolate bars to chocolate wine there is something for everyone. This year Sketts are also excited to announce Fresh Radio will also be joining us with a Music stage. There will also be our resident stilt walker & face painter for all children to enjoy! Free event at Warwick Marketplace, no tickets required.

Monday 7th The Horne Section 2019: That’s How I Like My Tour Five outstanding musicians, one non-musical stand up, there’ll be comedy, songs, enthusiastic dancing and a lot of mucking about.

A unique show from the hugely talented band and Alex Horne, the creator and co-host of The Bafta and Emmy nominated Taskmaster, which won Best Entertainment Show at last year’s Broadcast Awards.

The event takes place on the main stage at the Royal Spa Centre. For more details go to http://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre

Saturday 12th Freddie Mercury Tribute Night Carl Ryder a well respected and popular Tribute artist will be performing at Ansty Social Club on October 12th, 7-11.30pm. Carl has been an award winning Elvis Presley tribute for many years, but more recently he has started his tribute show to Freddie Mercury. With his powerful

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What's On vocals and mannerisms, Carl makes a high energy performance. Carl always ensures his show is enjoyable and entertaining for all Freddie and Queen fans. Tickets are £7.50.

Tuesday 15th A Taste of Leamington Join us on Tuesday 15th October 2019 and enjoy a three-course dining experience which will take you to three different independent restaurants in Royal Leamington Spa. The evening starts at 6.30pm with a drinks reception at The Town Hall on The Parade before you are guided to three of the town’s unique restaurants. Tickets £38.

A fundraiser for Rotary charities and Parkinson’s UK. Generously sponsored by AC Lloyd, Moore & Tibbits solicitors and Warwick Glass.

Saturday 19th Alcester Food Festival Alcester Food Festival is a Community Benefit Society run by a small group of un-paid volunteers. Two, one - day Food Festivals are held in

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH May and October each year. The events take place in the historic and attractive centre of the town of Alcester, Warwickshire; filling the High Street, Church Street and Henley Street with a wide range of fabulous food and drink. This is a great day out, especially if you love good food and drink. The Alcester and Forest of Arden Food Festivals cannot be beaten!Both events offer seasonal produce, artisan cheeses and breads, beers, wines, fresh produce and a wide variety of mainly local food and drink. The event takes between 9-5pm.

Saturday 19th - November 3rd The Haunted Castle: Halloween With wondrous witches, Horrible Histories and the return of the spectacular Fire Joust, experience Warwick Castle’s biggest ever Haunted Castle event this Halloween. For more information go to www.warwick-castle.co.uk

Saturday 26th Halloween Spooktacular Firework Display to Music Doors open 6.00pm til 9.00pm at Warwickshire Golf & Country Club, Fireworks start 7.45pm. There will be a DJ, bar, family BBQ, indoor spooky games and craft area, bouncy castle and face painting. All food/drink and stalls are cash only. Family ticket – 2 adults, 2 children under 16, under 2’s Free. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets online until Friday 25th October. Tickets also available at Health club reception until 1pm on the day. Gate price Adults £12, Children (under 16) £8. Family ticket not available on the door.

Old Warty’s Halloween Family Fun Night Bring the whole family to Ryton Pools for a spooky evening of Halloween fun and games with Old Warty the witch and friends!

This evening event includes a ride on the ghost train, the halloween Teddy Hospital and Old Warty the Witches Haunted Garden. You can also visit the Tunnel-web Spider Lair, Bat Cave, Clumsy Ranger trail and other areas during the evening! Don’t forget to bring your own carved, named pumpkin to put out in Old Wartys Pumpkin Patch to be judged by the visitors! The Courtyard Cafe will be open all evening selling hot food and Halloween treats at additional cost and the Visitors Centre will be open selling Halloween gifts and goodies!

Please bring a torch and a teddy for patching up in the hospital! An event suitable for children aged 4 years + who must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential. Cost is £11 per child. There is no adult ticket this year.

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WHAT’S ON

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What's On Halloween Fireworks Do you love Halloween? Do you love Fireworks? Then come along to Ragley Hall to celebrate Warwickshire’s biggest event for them both at this family fun scare-ific night out! There will be music playing throughout this fright-tastic evening and many things to bewitch you such as a state of the art laser show, fun fair, a fang-tastic face painter and a fancy dress competition – Make sure you come along dressed up to win the coveted prize! There will also be a scrumptious selection of food and drink available to buy on the night. So why not grab a toffee apple and get your face painted like Frankenstein as you wait for the Halloween Fireworks to begin! To buy tickets go to www. halloweenfireworks.co.uk

Thursday 31st Guys Cliffe Ghost Hunt Join Dusk Till Dawn Events on a terrifying overnight Ghost Hunt at the very haunted Guys Cliffe House Warwickshire. Guy’s Cliffe in Warwickshire dates back from 1751 and is said to be one of the Most Haunted locations in the UK. An imposing long forgotten building, stood lost in time, this building holds within its walls a plethora of ghostly activity just waiting for you to investigate! Tickets are £65. For more information, go to www.dusktilldawnevents.co.uk Hocus Pocus Halloween Outdoor Cinema Warwick Hocus Pocus is 26 years old this year! Can you believe that? This is the

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OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH first time we are screening this favourite on the big screen outdoors at Warwick Racecourse. When tickets go on sale, we are going to be taking a £4 deposit from you online. The reason for this is that the weather is not summer no more and in the days leading up to the event, if there is any sign of high winds or rain. We will refund you no questions asked but if we continue simply pay the difference on the door. How awesome is that, all you would have to do is wrap up warm, bring your chairs and enjoy this spooky Halloween outside and who knows what surprises will appear. n

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