Warwickshire Now March 2020

Warwickshire

Now

New homes close to Stratford-Upon- Avon

at Birnam Mews

L&Q is offering a stunning collection of new high quality houses in Tiddington with a fully inclusive specification at no additional cost.

PERFECT LUXURY BEDROOM MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS WEDDING FAYRE MARCH 2020 | ISSUE 44

PI C I’M K M FR E U EE P

Turn to page 7 for more details

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

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Warwickshire

04

Now

Contents

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08

MARCH 2020

29

HERE & NOW 04 All the latest news from around Warwickshire.

HOME & GARDEN

22

08 Your guide to a luxurious bedroom

MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS 18 Your guide to the best gifts for your mum

WEDDINGS 22 Get the most out of a wedding fayre

30

COMPETITION 29 Win a meal for four at Flamenco

HISTORY 30 Archaeological Travel

WA R W I C K S H I R E

EDITOR

DESIGN

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

Daisy Bennett daisy@pw-media.co.uk

01905 723011

ADVERTISING

Alzheimer’s Society Daisy Bennett NHS

NOW nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd Lower House, Whyle Lane Pudleston, Nr Leominster Herefordshire HR6 0RQ

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

CONTRIBUTORS

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

Kate Gilmartin 01905 727904 kate@pw-media.co.uk

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA

STEAM fortnight at Motor Museum The British Motor Museum is pleased to announce a fortnight of STEAM based educational activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Maths) for Key Stages 2 & 3 from March 2 – 13 2020.

Designed to coincide with National Science Week, the Museum will be offering a new range of interactive activities to enhance students’ learning and tackle some of the transport issues facing future generations.

The STEAM fortnight is an addition to the Museum’s normal schools programme and offers students an immersive and active learning experience, surrounded by the world’s largest collection of historic British cars. During the day of their visit each group will rotate between four or five different activities each lasting around 20 minutes, keeping enthusiasm and engagement around a special racetrack. Whilst the levels high. maths & technology elements of STEAM The students will meet the Museum’s resident will involve getting hands-on in a LEGO® mad scientists, Professor Pickle and Dr Pumpkin, workshop investigating the effects of gears and help them solve the problem of how to be and ratios. green and power the cars of the future - delivered in a high octane interactive science show. Schools can also benefit from the Museums Students can also become car designers for a day Travel Support Fund (made possible by expressing their creative sides as they design a support from Arts Council England). This fund will cover the full cost of coach travel Land Rover cut-out car for the 21st century. for schools booking a place during the Collaborating as ‘engineering’ teams students STEAM fortnight and offers up to £300 will road test remote controlled Jaguar D-Types towards travel costs at other times.

The STEAM programme cost is £12.50 per pupil for a full day at the Museum (10am – 2pm). Maximum number of pupils per day is 150 (5 groups of 30).

For more information about the Schools Programme or to request a brochure please visit www.britishmotormuseum. co.uk/schools or email education@ britishmotormuseum.co.uk or call 01926 649649. n

Local MP visits Campden Home Nursing Campden Home Nursing was delighted to welcome Cotswold MP, Sir Geoffrey CliftonBrown, to its headquarters in Chipping Campden recently. His visit coincided with the charity’s 30th anniversary, as well as ‘International Year of the Nurse and Midwife,’ which provided a perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the charity and the valuable hospice at home nursing care it provides to the local community.

During his visit, Sir Geoffrey spoke with nurses, staff and volunteers about the charity and end of life care in and around Gloucestershire.

Over the last two years, the charity has expanded its services considerably. In 2019, Campden Home Nursing nursed a total of 178 patients and provided 5,386 hours of nursing n 4 | Warwickshire Now | Issue 44 | March 2020

to the community, compared with 48 patients and 1,252 hours the previous year. They worked with over 13 local GPs’ surgeries and covered patients in 3 counties: Worcestershire, Gloucestershire & Warwickshire. They have also recently launched a Cancer Support Service which provides psychological support through one to one appointments for those with a recent cancer diagnosis.

They also spoke about the lack of parking in Chipping Campden, and the district nursing care service in the area. Sir Geoffrey CliftonBrown also paid a visit to the award-winning Campden Home Nursing Charity Shop, where he even made a couple of purchases. n

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA

Reopening for popular Warwick pub THE Hatton Arms pub in Warwick reopened its doors this week with a fresh look and menu to greet visitors old and new. The popular country pub, which enjoys sweeping views of the idyllic Hatton Locks, is back in business after closing on January 20th for refurbishment.

It hopes to further build on its established reputation locally for authentic dining and classic British cuisine made with the finest ingredients, often sourced direct from the Hatton Estate.

Diners will be able to enjoy an enhanced modern look inside and out, including a new porch creating a more welcoming entrance area and rear bi-fold doors to open up the terrace during the warmer months.

A new lighter, brighter and contemporary interior also awaits, including new booth seating, while still staying true to the traditional pub vibe the locals have come to love.

A team of 35 full and part-time staff are headed up by general manager Stephanie Ward and deputy manager deputy manager Shaney Ayre.

The Hatton Arms’ new day and dinner menu will also reflect the pub’s provenance with an emphasis on locally sourced fresh seasonal ingredients, serving the best of Britain’s seasonal treats from the farms, shores and artisan producers, including award-winning Oxfordshire beef from Rowleys butchers in Warwick; venison from Wellesbourne Estates; free range eggs from Chadwick End and breads from Le Petit Croissant in Stratford-upon-Avon.

There is a good selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes plus daily Specials and new bar snacks menu are being introduced. It’s all prepared under the expert eye of head chef Jakub Fijak, who returns to the Hatton Arms after five years.

An extensive Drinks Menu celebrates local brewers with Alcester’s UBU, Harry’s Heifer from Church Farm Brewery and Hooky ales available, as well as The Philosopher’s Daughter, from Warwickshire Gin Company and Hatton Country World’s Moore’s of Warwick.

The former 18th-century coaching inn is part of the 900-acre Hatton Estate owned by Johnnie and Arabella Arkwright.

Johnnie said: “The Hatton Arms has been a part of our family for about 180 years and is already a popular destination for so many of us who live nearby. We want to thank everyone for their patience while these exciting new changes have been taking place behind the scenes – and are proud to show it all off to customers both old and new – marking the latest chapter in its rich history.”

New extended dining times are Monday-Thursday 12-9pm; Friday and Saturday 12-9.30pm and Sunday 12-8pm.

And bar hours are now extended until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit: www.hattonarms.com n

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HOME & GARDEN

Elegant touch Our top tips, guaranteed to turn your bedroom into into an opulent night time retreat.

Make a statement this spring, by turning your bedroom into a luxurious haven full of bold colours and decadent fabrics. We take a look at the ways to upgrade your room with a touch of elegance.

Orbit Peacock Velvet Chair www.oakfurnishings.co.uk

Bold colours Don’t be afraid to add some colour into your bedroom. Deep blues and greens can add drama to your room without it being too over-the-top colourful. Stick to one colour scheme and build from that foundation. Iliv Interior Textiles have thoughtful, beautiful and unique fabric designs to inspire you to create stunning interiors. Like the Cotswold Prussian fabric shown in the image above, pick out the bold colours and run with it.

By adding accents of browns and yellows to compliment the deep hues, you can brighten up the space.

Experiment with different fabrics If bold colours aren’t your thing, mix different fabrics and textures throughout

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the room to add depth and style to your bedroom. From lush velvet to faux fur, bold brass decor to simple elegant wood finishings, there is a multitude of ways to feel luxurious without comprimising on style. Velvet is a type of woven tufted fabric in which the cut threads are evenly distributed, with a short dense pile, giving it a distinctive soft feel. Choose the Orbit accent chair in blue (shown opposite).

Invitingly deep seated, with curved, velvet covered arms that invite touch. With hardwood in the frame, and slim hardwood legs, the accent chair is made to last.

Add comfort and glamour with a faux fur made from 100% acrylic, ideal for adding a luxurious feel to your home. A perfect addition to bedrooms, the deep and shaggy pile offers a super-soft warming effect, especially on hard-flooring.

A popular textile throughout interior design, silk is a natural fiber known for its luster, shine, strength, and durability.

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HOME & GARDEN

Fox & Ivy Cushions, From ÂŁ12 www.tesco.com

Silk is the epitome of luxury due to its soft touch, and elegant appearance. You may not want however to cover all your furnishings in this luxurious fabric, instead, use it sparingly in cushions, headboards, drapes or curtains.

Just Fabrics, one of the leading independent designer fabric retailers in the country has a huge selection fabrics for curtains, upholstery, cushions. Their range of range of velvet or velour and chenille fabrics are great for adding a touch of luxury to your interiors. Velvet fabrics make fantastic upholstery fabrics for a sophisticated look. Visit them online at www.justfabrics.co.uk or visit one of their fabric shops and warehouses in Burford or Cheltenham.

Don’t forget the walls Go for wallpaper with bold prints and

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different textures. Available in a variety of colours, Club Damask by Eijffinger (shown below) is a large scale damask design printed on a foil wallpaper, resulting in a stunning wallpaper with a wow factor.

For an added dramatic effect, try adding large mirrors to your wall to open up a room. Place them opposite a window to instantly make the room seem bigger than it actually is.

Light it up Add a statement pendant light or a sleek metallic floor lamp for a simple luxurious look. Be bold and choose an unusual shape with a shiny glass or crystal finish, to really add elegance to your bedroom.

Pillows pillows and pillows When you see perfectly designed luxury CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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HOME & GARDEN hotel rooms, there are always more than enough pillows on the bed, piled high to sink into after a long day. In your own home however, it may not be practical to have layers upon layers of pillows strewn across your bed. Instead, go for a two or maybe even three rows of plumped up cushions, varying in size and texture. Again go for high end fabrics; silk, faux fur and velvet.

Fabulous furniture Boutique hotel-style furniture immediately instils contemporary and modern bedrooms with a luxurious presence. Avoid highly detailed and complex designs and instead aim for simple elegance through softly balanced frames and straightforward colour combinations.

Layering simplistic furniture pieces with defined features across a richly coloured backdrop evokes feelings of an opulent and luxurious night-time retreat.

Pavillion Broadway has a range of luxury bedroom furniture in all shapes and styles, offering a selection of individual pieces and designer bedroom furniture sets to create your desired interior look. Their Theodore Alexander Bedside Chest Eli in Polished Nickel (shown opposite) is a perfect example of how to get the polished luxury look by using a simple colour in an elegant design. n

By Daisy Bennett

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HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

Wet & waterlogged soil With the recent downpour throughout Warwickshire and surrounding areas, we take a look at how heavy rain affects the structure of your soil and what plants are the most resilient in extrmely wet weather.

Our climate which is influenced by the Atlantic, throws a lot of weather at us and over the last few months has waterlogged most of our gardens.

Many gardeners have seen their plants lying under water at the worst, or thoroughly sodden at the best. However, plants are resilient and will normally survive. If they do succumb, take an optimistic stance and see it as an opportunity to plant something else.

How to improve soil drainage You can improve your soil’s drainage by adding coarse grit and this is highly desirable on heavy, sticky soil - but counter productive on lighter soil.

However adding well-rotted, home-made garden compost on a yearly basis will helps to aerate any soil, thereby aiding drainage. If you haven’t got a compost heap, build one. The other thing is to lightly fork the soil surface, using a small hand fork, without treading on the soil. There are longhandled versions available at your local garden centre for bigger borders . This will break up the crust, and allow further rain to sink in better.

The other great way of draining soil is to create a woody canopy using shrubs and trees. If the soil is very wet throughout the year consider the European dogwoods and willows. The redstemmed dogwood Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ and the green-stemmed Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’

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will both grow in very damp conditions. These produce pencil-thick stems that pop up every now again, so they are not suitable for the small garden. The technique is to cut out the old stems every April to encourage new, colourful growth, but do allow the plant to get established for two or three years first. The cream and green leaved ‘Elegantissima’ is pretty throughout the year and still has red stems, although not as bright as ‘Sibirica’. Willows are notoriously thirsty, but they can be pollarded back to the base every year - again, once established. The orangestemmed Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Britzensis’ glows in winter light.

Heavy rain and its effect on the soil structure Heavy rain compacts and pans the soil surface.

Keep off until it’s drier. Use a plank to stand on when digging and try to aerate the soil surface with a fork to prevent panning, but without setting foot on it. Excessive rainfall tends to wash out nutrients and you will need to feed your plants.

Use a potash-rich slow release fertilizer that’s excellent for roses, peonies and fruit trees, or you may prefer an easily applied powdered chicken/ animal manure. All feeds are best applied to damp soil on still days when your plants are dry.

Yearly applications of garden compost will also feed your plants and then you will not need to CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN purchase manufactured fertilizers which take a great deal of fossil fuel to produce. It will also save plant material from being transported by fossil fuel and either composted under heat for green waste, or put into landfill.

Which plants will suffer in wet conditions?

Alpine plants need very sharp drainage during winter because they’ve evolved on bare mountainsides where snow and frost desiccate the ground.

These plants will struggle and many will die in very wet winters. If you love alpines, consider making a sunny scree slope, using rocks and gravel so the water can escape. Or plant on a slope, or create your own slope, to aid drainage.

You could also invest in an alpine bulb frame, or glasshouse to keep your treasures dry. Bulbous plants may also suffer, although those with large bulbs will cope far better than smaller bulbs.

Fungal diseases are more of a problem, usually showing themselves as brown leaf tips or leaf margins. Also look out for botryitis, grey mould.

If you see either of these remove the bulbs and examine them. Throw any infected bulbs away, or move them to a quarantine area and watch them carefully. Silver-leaved Mediterranean plants (sages, thymes, dianthus etc) may also suffer in wet conditions. These short-lived plants

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should be regularly propagated because older, leggier plants are more vulnerable. Cut all leggy Mediterranean plants back in late March: this will rejuvenate them.

March: Spring arrives Spring usually arrives by mid-March and the frequent sunny days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks. It’s time to get busy preparing seed beds, sowing seed, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden. The RHS gives us their things to do in the garden (if it ever stops raining) 1. Protect new spring shoots from slugs 2 Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes 3 Plant summer-flowering bulbs 4 Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials 5 Top dress containers with fresh compost 6 Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed) 7 Cut back Cornus (dogwood) and Salix (willow) grown for colourful winter stems 8 Hoe and mulch weeds to keep them under control early 9 Start feeding fish and using the pond fountain; remove pond heaters 10 Prune bush and climbing roses n

HOME & GARDEN

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MOTHER’S DAY

Mum's the word

Pick out something special for your mum this Mother’s Day, Sunday March 22nd MAMA’S MOMENTS BIRTHING ESSENTIALS £20 MILANI PREP & BRIGHTEN ROSE FACE OIL £20 Rose Face Oil is an indulgent custom blend of Vitamin C, Sunflower, Apricot Kernel, Sweet Almond, and Crambe Abyssinica Oils designed to brighten, balance your skin, and reduce the signs of aging. www.boots.com

Wherever you plan to give birth there will always be those ‘go-to’ essentials that you will want to grab just as you need them.The Natural Birthing Company have brought together a selection of our products that we feel would really support you in a natural way during your birthing journey. www.naturalbirthingcompany.com

LUXE GARDENIA £20 A perfume inspired by bountiful, beautiful and blossoming floral bouquets.

Containing 90% naturally derived ingredients and a vegetable derived alcohol base. www.yardleylondon.co.uk

ROSALIQUE 3 IN 1 ANTI-REDNESS MIRACLE FORMULA £29.99 Combines micro encapsulated redness concealing technology as well as clinically proven redness reducing a-Bisabolol, zeolite, provitamin B5 and shea butter plus an SPF 50 for outstanding results. www.rosalique.co.uk

DAVINA STEEL BAKING KITS From £2.49 Perfect for mums following gluten-free diets who struggle to find tasty bread and cake alternatives, Davina Steel’s easy-to-make mixes are a simple way to make yummy, homemade scones and focaccia when you’re short on time or lack the confidence to prepare a recipe from scratch. www.davinasteel.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

10 painful foot conditions that can be cured Have you ever heard the phrase “when your feet hurt, it hurts all over”? Well for many people, it really is true.

Foot pains & problems are very common, and they reduce our mobility, restrict our activities, and even affect our mood.

However, there is good news - these painful foot problems can be cured. They just need accurate diagnosis, indepth assessment, and individualised treatment plans. If you want your foot issue cured, then (in the vast majority of cases) whoever you see with the problem should be able to do that for you or they should refer you on to someone who can. If they don’t offer you this, then maybe its time to look elsewhere as there really is no need to suffer.

Corns: These have a tendency to keep coming back, but they don’t need to. Permanently removing the cause is what matters most.

Fungal toenails: If you want to get rid of fungus infecting your nails, then tablets from your GP or Lacuna treatment by someone qualified to do it MAY be your best option.

Cracked Heels: Try our special value Cracked Heels Pack from www.firstaidforfeet.co.uk. If that fails, then an intensive treatment programme can resolve these before summer sandals make them worse for you.

Metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain): This isn’t a true diagnosis in the same way that “headache” isn’t one. It’s just a description of a symptom, so its important to get an accurate diagnosis from a specialist.

Diabetic foot ulcers: These don’t always hurt, and NHS Podiatrists

are generally good at looking after them, but sometimes they don’t

Ingrowing toenails: These don’t normally resolve permanently by just taking antibiotics, and nowadays we should be careful of our use of those. A simple operation creates a virtually guaranteed cure, so why put up with this painful problem unnecessarily?

have access to cutting edge technologies to help resolve them, for

Verrucas: For these, we need to generate a cell-mediated immune response and they clear up. Falknor’s needling and SWIFT microwave therapy have the highest levels of success.

on it and found the description wanting. It is most definitely not a

Plantar fasciitis (heel pain): Getting the correct diagnosis is key as true plantar fasciitis is actually quite rare, yet the number of people who are told (incorrectly) that they have it is disappointingly high.

For more details on each of these, visit www.healthfirstsoutham.co.uk,

Athlete’s foot: This is one that can probably be cured by yourself with appropriate self-care, but you may need guidance on how to reduce the fungal load so that you remain cured.

example low level & high intensity laser therapy.

Excessive/over pronation: This is a misnomer that is still banded about even though, in recent years, science has put a spotlight “condition” in itself and therefore doesn’t need “treatment” or to be “cured”, so don’t waste money on expensive insoles you may not need.

read our blogs and visit the “Your Foot Pain” section. Also, follow us on Facebook @healthFirstSoutham. Remember, there is no need to let your feet affect you negatively. At Health First Foot & Gait Clinic, we fix the feet that others can’t fix. We take a positive, evidencebased approach and aim to cure you if possible as we are passionate about helping you to keep active, mobile and healthy. n

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Your guide to

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine. Fine needles are inserted at certain sites in the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. It is used in many NHS GP practices, as well as in most pain clinics and hospices in the UK. Acupuncture is often seen as a form of complementary or alternative medicine (CAM).

How acupuncture works Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles.

This results in the body producing natural substances, such as pain-relieving endorphins. It’s likely that these naturally released substances are responsible for the beneficial effects experienced with acupuncture. A course of acupuncture usually creates longer lasting pain relief than when a single treatment is used.

Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force”, flows through the body in channels called meridians. This life force is known as Qi (pronounced “chee”). Practitioners who use acupuncture in the traditional way believe that when Qi does not flow freely through the body, this can cause illness. They also believe acupuncture can restore the flow of Qi, and so restore health.

Uses of acupuncture Acupuncture practitioners – sometimes called acupuncturists – use acupuncture to treat a wide range of health conditions. However, the use of acupuncture is not always based on rigorous scientific evidence.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines for the NHS on the use of n 20 | Warwickshire Now | Issue 44 | March 2020

treatments and care of patients.

Currently, NICE only recommends acupuncture as a treatment option for: • •

considering

chronic tension-type headaches migraines

Acupuncture is also often used to treat other musculoskeletal conditions (of the bones and muscles) and pain conditions, including: • • • •

chronic pain, such as neck pain joint pain dental pain postoperative pain

However, the evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture compared with other treatments is unclear.

Acupuncture on the NHS Acupuncture is sometimes available on the NHS, most often from GP surgeries or physiotherapists, although access is limited. Most acupuncture patients pay for private treatment. The cost of acupuncture varies widely between practitioners. If you’re being treated by an acupuncture practitioner for a health condition or are considering having acupuncture, it’s advisable to discuss this with your GP. How acupuncture is performed An initial acupuncture session usually lasts 20 minutes to 1 hour and involves an assessment of your general health, medical history and a physical examination, followed by insertion of the acupuncture needles.

Courses of treatment often involve several separate CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HEALTH & BEAUTY sessions, but this can vary.

Insertion of the needles The needles are inserted into specific places on the body, which practitioners call acupuncture points.

During the session, you’ll usually be asked to sit or lie down. You may also be asked to remove some clothes so the practitioner can access certain parts of your body. The needles used are very fine and are usually a few centimetres long. They should be single-use, presterilised needles that are disposed of immediately after use.

Acupuncture practitioners choose specific points to place the needles based on your condition. Several points may be used during a typical session, depending on the number of symptoms you have.

The needles may be inserted just under the skin, or deeper so they reach muscle. Once the needles are in place, they may be left in position for a length of time lasting from a few minutes up to around 30 minutes.

You may feel a tingling or a dull ache when the needles are inserted but you should not experience any significant pain. If you do, let your practitioner know straight away.

Acupuncture safety and regulation There’s no statutory regulation of acupuncture in England. If you choose to have acupuncture, it is recommended that you check the acupuncture practitioner is either a regulated healthcare professional

such as a doctor, nurse or physiotherapist or a member of a national acupuncture organisation. You can find an accredited register of acupuncture practitioners on the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care website.

When it’s done by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is generally very safe. Rarely, some people experience mild, short-term side effects such as: • • • • • • •

pain where the needles puncture the skin bleeding or bruising where the needles puncture the skin drowsiness feeling sick feeling dizzy or faint worsening of pre-existing symptoms If you have a bleeding disorder, such as haemophilia, or are taking anticoagulants, talk to your GP before you have acupuncture.

Acupuncture is also not usually advised if you have a metal allergy or an infection in the area where needles may be inserted.

It’s generally safe to have acupuncture when you’re pregnant. However, let your acupuncture practitioner know if you’re pregnant because certain acupuncture points cannot be used safely during pregnancy.

For more information, go to www.nhs.co.uk/conditions/ acupuncture n

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WEDDINGS

Get inspiration for your Big Day! Wedding fairs can often provide you with an opportunity to get some great discounts but will also give you a chance to meet suppliers, get inspiration for your big day or view a venue that you’ve been longing to look at since you said yes.

If you’ve recently got engaged or are attending a wedding fair or open day at a venue for the first time, it’s hard to know what to expect. So let’s start at the beginning...

A wedding fair is a prime opportunity for you to gather inspiration for your special day and meet suppliers that you might want to work with. Most exhibitions are held at wedding venues, which is a great opportunity to view a venue informally and see it set up, or in big conference centres, like the NIA in Birmingham. Most wedding fairs cover a range of different suppliers but you can also find more specialist fairs that cater to niche markets, which are perfect for vintage-loving or alternative brides.

There will always be a range of suppliers at any wedding fair and you’ll often find a couple of suppliers in each category. The aim of the fair is to introduce you to suppliers that will fit with what you want for your big day, and no two brides are the same so it’s good to have a mix of suppliers that can cater to different budgets or who have different styles.

You’ll have the chance to meet photographers, cake makers, wedding dress designers or wedding boutiques, florists, accessory designers, hair dressers and make up artists, entertainers and musicians, caterers, stationers, jewellers...

To attend the event you could bring your partner, your friend, your parents or go solo - suppliers and event organisers don’t mind so it’s entirely up to you. The suppliers are there to introduce themselves to you and want you to work with them, so there will always be an incentive for you. They often use competitions to win a bottle of champagne in return for your email address or a big discount if you sign up for a consultation on the day of the fair... You might just get a bargain

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on your dream dress or find the entertainment you never realised you needed at a reduced rate, so it’s always worth having a look around.

If you haven’t set your date yet, can I still go? It’s not essential, but a ballpark date is always welcome, from a supplier’s point of view, even if that’s as vague as “2021”. Some suppliers get booked up very quickly so it helps if you have an idea of a date but it’s not the end of the world if you don’t.

To make the best out of the day - Make a list of things you need or want for your wedding; it will help you to find suppliers that can offer advice and give you an idea of how much what you’re looking for will cost.

Best to do this before you go!

If you’ve sorted out your budget, have this in mind when you look round. It’ll help you to consider what you really want and where you’re willing to cut back.

Most fairs will ask for your email address when you come into the fayre.

Make sure you specify if you don’t want your details to be passed around to suppliers after the event (there’s usually a box to tick) Take a little notebook and pen to write down any suppliers you liked or ideas you saw that you hadn’t considered. Pick up business cards and leaflets for things you like the look of and if you want a supplier to contact you with a quote or give you more information, scribble down your email address or phone number for them to call you later and they’ll be happy to do that for you, with no obligation.

Last of all eat the cake. Always eat the cake. And try the chocolate fountain, drink the champagne and try every canapé that’s on offer... most of all, have fun. n

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SENIOR LIVING

Dementia Care Costs to soar

over the next decade

The total cost of dementia care in the West Midlands is set to almost double over the next decade, putting those affected by the condition under increasing pressure. The latest figures for the West Midlands estimate care costs will rise from their current level of £3,376,000 to £5,297,000 in 2030, an increase of 66%.

The shocking prediction highlights calls by Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia charity, for immediate social care investment to be a key pillar of the Government’s forthcoming Spring Budget on 11 March.

The figures, calculated by the London School of Economics and Political Science, combine costs to the NHS, social care and the value of unpaid care provided by family members. Worryingly, across England it is estimated that around 60% of social care costs are typically met by people living with dementia and their families because they do not qualify for state support.

As part of its on-going Fix Dementia Care campaign, Alzheimer’s Society is demanding urgent investment, backing calls for £8bn in extra funding for adult social care in England by 2020/21. The charity estimates at least £2.65bn of that amount could be spent on care for people living with dementia to improve the devastating financial and emotional impact they and their families face when accessing care.

Kumbi Mandinyenya, Alzheimer’s Society’s Area Manager for the Midlands said: “The social care system is unfair and unfit for people living with dementia. Alzheimer’s Society is campaigning to end this injustice. We are calling on the Government to commit to £8 billion in immediate funding to bring care to an acceptable level, as well as a clear timetable for long-term reform that provides a fairer system and n 24 | Warwickshire Now | Issue 44 | March 2020

ensures access to quality care. “For far too long, families have been privately struggling to care for their loved ones with dementia, left to pick up the pieces of a social care system that’s coming apart at the seams. This can’t go on any longer. The Government must live up to its promise to fix dementia care.”

Across England, care costs are predicted to rise from their current level of £29.4bn to £50.4bn by 2030, an increase of more than 70%. At the same time, the number of people living with dementia across the UK is expected to rise from around 850,000 to 1.2m by 2030.

The report predicts that as our population ages, a higher proportion of people with dementia will have higher care needs for longer, driving up the average amount spent on care. Previous research by Alzheimer’s Society has shown that someone with dementia will typically have to spend £100,000 on their care. Many are forced to sell their homes to pay for it.

Alzheimer’s Society is calling for dementia care to be funded like other public services, such as the NHS and education, where the cost is shared across society, protecting individuals and their families from the devastating costs of specialist dementia care.

Today, the charity releases a hard-hitting animated film telling the story of one family’s financial plight to get the care their loved one with dementia needs. You can view it by visiting www.youtube.com/ watch?v=-n7dh3rHlB0&feature=youtu.be To find out more about Alzheimer’s Society’s Fix Dementia Care campaign, and to write to your MP asking them to take action, visit alzheimers.org.uk/FixBudget n

SENIOR LIVING

Quinton House Engage and re-lift the senses

At Quinton House we understand the needs of every individual. It’s not just about the first class care, it’s about every facet of someone’s life. It’s about what newspaper they read, knowing their favourite breakfast, where they went on holiday as a child, the list is exhaustive.

By understanding each individual we are able to help them settle quickly, and enjoy the benefits that community living in such a special place can offer. You’ll notice from our reviews that our staff’s attention to each resident is exemplary and it’s this genuine interest coupled to compassionate care which keeps our residents so content.

Visit our community and you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special.

This is a family-owned home and has been for over twenty years. This continuity coupled to our team’s dedication enables us to deliver ever more impressive levels of compassionate care, the best Warwickshire has to offer.

At Quinton House, we are passionate about what we do and how we care for the older people we work with. Our insight and reputation is built on 20 years of experience in care. We are committed to providing all of our residents, wht exactly the right level of care and support, where and when it is required.

New Sensory Room Our new sensory rom is a specially designed environment that provides a sensory experience to our residents, with a wide variety of different abilities. A sensory room is designed to help people engage with the world around them.

We have sand, sea, seagulls, seaside background music. Chips in a cone or icecream.

We aim to engage and re-lift the senses of all our residents.

We understand the value of maintainung our residence independence and that privacy and choice are important. Our dedicated and highly trained care staff know that no two people are the same, whic is why we make sure we listen to our residence needs and always create bespoke support packages that are tailored to the residence personal circumstances and lifestyle preferences.

Top 20 Small Care Home Groups 2019 Quinton House and Gardens Nursing Home are pleased to anounce that we have won this Award and we couldn’t be any happier. Our staff has worked hard over the years to not only make a difference to our residents but, to assure families that their loved ones are in safe hands.

The carehome.co.uk Group Awards 2019 highlight the most recommended Care Home Groups in the UK. The awards are based on over 120,000 reviews from care home residents as well as their friends and family.

Quinton House Nursing Home, Main Road, Lower Quinton, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 8RY Tel: 01789 720247 Email: info@quintonhouse.net

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EDUCATION

Hidden funding

for students

Hidden scholarships and funding If you’re going to university, there are some hidden pots of funding available.

They’re often less about academic ability and more about factors such as religion, where you live or what your parents do for a living.

Family Action’s Educational Grants Programme: This service offers students, especially disadvantaged ones, over the age of 14 the chance to get grants of £200 to £300 to start or continue their education.

Postgraduate funding: New master’s students are able to get a master’s loan of up to £10,906. Doctoral level students are eligible to apply for the doctoral loan of up to £25,700.

Scholarships and bursaries: Search https://www. postgraduatesearch.com/funding you’ll be surprised at what’s available.

Study in Europe If you want to study abroad for a year at one of 33 participating European universities, grants are available from the British Council as part of the Erasmus scheme.

16 to 19 Bursary Fund If you’re aged between 16 and 19, you could be eligible for the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund to help with educationrelated costs. You’ll need to be studying at a school or college in England (not a university), or on an unpaid training course. If eligible, you could get up to £1,200.

Vulnerable student bursary. If you’re in local authority care or have recently left it, if you receive income support or universal credit, or if you are disabled and receive both employment support allowance (ESA) and disability living allowance (DLA) or universal credit, or you get personal independence payment (PIP), you could be eligible for this.

Discretionary bursary: If you don’t qualify for the vulnerable student bursary, you may qualify for this. Your education or training provider will set their own criteria for this and will look at family income among other things.

If you think you might qualify for the bursary you will need to apply to your school, college or training provider.

Widely Available Student Loans No-one in the UK should be put off studying because of potential student debt. Done right, it’s very different to normal debt. It’s only repaid when you finish studying, and if you don’t earn enough when you leave you don’t have to pay for it.

Types of funding are as follows: Student loans: Most UK higher education students are eligible for a student loan. The tuition fee loan can cover tuition fees up to £9,250 (for the 2019/20 academic year).

Maintenance loan: Students are also eligible for a loan of up to £11,672 (for the 2019/20 academic year) to help with living costs, depending on circumstances.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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EDUCATION

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EDUCATION Tuition loans for students aged 19+ in England An advanced learner loan can help with college or training tuition costs in England. How much you get depends on what you’re studying and what you’re charged in tuition fees. The minimum loan is £300 and it’ll be paid directly to your college or training provider. The maximum you can get depends on your course. You might get less from the loan than your college or training provider charges – if so you’ll have to pay the difference yourself.

To get this you must be 19 or over and studying level 3 upwards. Ie if you are taking 4 A Levels you get 4 loans.

Those resident for more 3 years are eligible, there’s no credit check to get it, and it doesn’t depend on your household income. Once earning you pay back 9% of your earnings above £25,725 a year.

There’s also an advanced learner loan bursary fund, which you can apply to if you need learning help, or to cover childcare or residential costs. It could be paid directly to you or to your landlord or your childcare provider. Apply directly to your college or training facility for the bursary.

Other grants can be found called Learner Support, Care to Learn (if you are main carer for a child), Local council grants, yes there are still some! Plus don’t forget Free online courses in almost any topic to start your education adventure.

We recommend you start your search on Moneysavingexpert.com, they have lots of links to available funding websites. n

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COMPETITION

HOME & GARDEN

Win a meal for four or enjoy free dessert for mum on Mother’s Day

at Flamenco

A WARWICK restaurant is helping to ensure a sweet gesture for your mum doesn’t have to cost the earth with its special Mother’s Day offer. Flamenco Spanish Restaurant in West Street is promising every mum who dines with them on March 22nd a FREE DESSERT of their choice from the menu.

Not only that, but Flamenco has teamed up with NOW Magazine to offer one lucky winner a complimentary family meal for four with this month’s competition. Every mum who visits with their son or daughter will be entitled to take their pick from a delicious selection including Bailey’s Tiramisu, Chocolate Pot, Chocolate Tequenos, Amaretto Cheesecake, Neapolitan Layer Cake, Raspberry & Coconut Cake, Salted Caramel Brownie, Ice cream or Sorbet when ordering a main course from the Spanish or Sunday Lunch Menus.

Authentic and traditional Spanish cooking methods are used, specialising in tapas, paella cooked over flame and hot stone cooking (meat is cooked on a hot stone). It’s this cooking style that was the inspiration behind the restaurant’s new name which is a play on Flame’nCo. Indeed, most of the ingredients including cheeses, hams, chorizos, olive oils come from Spain, along with locally sourced meats and fish from Cornwall. But tradition is not forgotten and Sunday roast favourites of beef, pork and chicken are all available, served up with roasted butternut squash, roasted parsnips, maple-glazed carrots, roast potatoes and tender stem broccoli, all accompanied with homemade gravy cooked for over 12 hours.

There’s something for all tastes with a selection of pizzas and burgers as well as a children’s menu for any younger diners accompanying their mums. Flamenco is the second project for Alex Clayton who recently won Best Spanish Restaurant Award for Tasca Dali which opened in High Street seven years ago.

Following an extensive refurbishment, he now hopes to replicate this success at the new Spanish restaurant and cocktail bar, marking the latest chapter in the rich history of The Tudor House Inn in West Street.

Chef Rafael Liste Toledo uses authentic and traditional Spanish cooking methods specialising in tapas, paella cooked over flame and hot stone cooking (meat is cooked on a hot stone). It’s this cooking style that was the inspiration behind the restaurant’s new name which is a play on Flame’nCo. To enter the competition to win a meal for four just answer the question on our Warwickshire Now Fscebook page.

Visit the website at: https://flamencowarwick.com.

Terms and Conditions: The winner is entitled to a three-course *family meal (*four people including at least one child) and includes one bottle of house wine per two adults and two soft drinks for under 18s.

The meal must be pre-booked and taken before April 30th and is subject to availability and excludes Mother’s Day. (March 22nd). The prize cannot be exchanged for its cash value and no correspondence can be entered into. n

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EDUCATION

COMPETITION HISTORY

Archaeological Travel “The past is a foreign country: they do things differently there”.

The immortal first line to L.P.

cosmos. Malta strategic location also

heard of the myth of Atlantis and most

Hartley’s ‘The Go-Between’

ensured it a vital role in the great conflicts

archaeologists now agree that the Aegean

(1953)

condenses

of the world, from the valiant defence of

island of Santorini is the very place. It is

the nature of history, travel and the accord

Christendom by the Knights of St John to a

simply awe inspiring to stand today on

between the two. The past underlies the

celebrated World War II history.

the rim of that volcanic crater and realise

wistfully

character and identity of everywhere and, like a foreign country, is full of difference and interest. It is also the wider story of humankind, with universal relevance for us all. This is why archaeological and historical

It isn’t necessary to be a history buff; tours are available which bring it all together for you, so you don’t have to do all the planning and research yourself. Ancient

the scale of a single historical event; a massive eruption some 3500 years ago that devastated the Bronze Age world and has been remembered ever since.

Greece, for example, may seem like the

The world’s historic and ancient sites are a

preserve of classical scholars but a tour of

veritable ark of profound insights, unsolved

It is said that travel broadens the mind,

the ancient sites with an expert guide can

mysteries and great discoveries. They are

and especially so when we explore the

be a profoundly satisfying experience for

often in beautiful locations too, so visiting

history and archaeology of the places we

everyone. It’s not just the warm weather

them can get you off the beaten track to see

visit. Everywhere has a story to tell, and the

and good food; it’s an intellectual and

more of the country. Go with a specialist tour

breadth of interest is endless; from simple

emotional connection, a return to the

company and turn your next holiday into a

everyday life to historical wonders and the

cradle of our modern world, to the thoughts

more worthwhile experience. Archaeology

rise and fall of great civilisations.

and actions of people whose philosophy,

and history tours give meaning to travel

science, art and politics laid the foundations

and can become part of a personal journey

of European culture.

through life in which the interest never ends

travel is so fascinating.

Take, for example, the tiny Mediterranean island of Malta. There are temples here that predate Stonehenge and the pyramids

The physical remains of the past create

and give us fascinating insights into our

landscapes of memory that still resonate

ancestor’s beliefs in life, death and the

in

our

modern

minds.

Everyone

when the tour ends. n HiddenHistory.co.uk

has

HIDDEN HISTORY TRAVEL Fascinating journeys into history, prehistory and the ancient world Minoan Crete & Santorini • Malta’s Millennia • Sicilian Civilisations Aphrodite’s Cyprus • Bulgaria: Old Europe • Glories of Greece Pompeii & Campania • Andorra & Occitania • Makings of Asturias Romney Marsh • East Anglia • Ridgeway Hillforts • Hellfire Corner Expert Guides • Small Groups • Beautiful Locations www.hiddenhistory.co.uk

Tel: 0121 444 1854

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What's On March Saturday 7th - Sunday 15th Jigsaw Festival The Jigsaw Festival at Coughton Court is on Saturday 7 March – Sunday 15 March, 11am – 4pm on open days. There will be hundreds of jigsaw puzzles for you to peruse and buy, the perfect hobby for a rainy day.

An ideal hobby for a rainy day, jigsaws on display will include children’s puzzles, seaside scenes, picturesque landscapes, Impossipuzzles and brand new jigsaws to name but a few. Entrance to the Jigsaw Festival is included in the admission price so come and hunt out your perfect puzzle, enjoy a long lunch with friends in the café or take a stroll around the gardens and admire the spring gardens. For more details, go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughton-court

Sunday 8th Kinky Boots The Musical Kinky Boots The Musical, filmed live at the Adelphi Theatre in the heart of London’s West End, is strutting onto the big screen! With songs from Grammy and Tony award winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, book by legendary Broadway playwright Harvey Fierstein (La Cage Aux Folles), and direction and choreography by Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde, Hairspray), the musical is based on the film written by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth. Inspired by true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common – or so they think.

Charlie (Killian Donnelly) is a factory owner struggling to save his family business, and Lola (Matt Henry) is a fabulous entertainer with a wildly exciting idea. With a little compassion and a lot of understanding, this unexpected pair learn to embrace their differences and create a line of sturdy stilettos unlike any the world has ever seen! The event is being held at Warwick Arts Centre at the University of Warwick, 3-5pm. Cost: £15 (£13), £11 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk/whats-on/2020/kinkyboots-the-musical/ Stratford Upon Avon Militaria and Medal Fair Established in 1998 this indoor event at Stratford Leisure Centre replaced the popular Gloucester fair which dated back to 1987.

Buy, sell and exchange at the 80+ tables of quality militaria, medals,

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OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH badges, uniforms, helmets, insignia, military books etc., etc. Close to town centre and just 10 minutes from M40 (Junction 15) which helps attract top U.K. dealers. Local signposting, large adjacent pay & display car park. Enquiries : Telephone 01753-534777 or 07871777062 ; Email markgcarter6@gmail.com ; Webpage www.milweb. net/dealers/trader/markcarter.htm. Preview admission (Open to all) 9.30am to 10.30am : £3.50. Standard Admission 10.30am to 2.00pm : £2.50. Accompanied children free at all times.

Thursday 12th Best of Be Festival 2020 Each year, BE FESTIVAL packages up three of their favourite shows from their international festival and sends them on a tour of the UK. Three companies from Belgium, Switzerland and Hungary will showcase snapshots of storytelling, dance, physical theatre, in three, 30-minute shows all in one exhilarating evening. Hungarian dance-artist Anna Biczók mixes memories, imagination and shifting perspectives to explore the phenomena of an ‘experience’ in her solo dance lecture Precedents To A Potential Future. In The Sensemaker from Switzerland, a mute dancer panics and strains to keep her tightly orchestrated routine in time to the chopped-and-spliced soundtrack.

Bits and pieces of music and spoken word are contrasted to push the protagonist to the limit.. Levitations by Belgium’s Hannah De Meyer is a dark, funny and surreal trip around Hannah’s universe. She effortlessly crafts together movement and poetry where hope and despair, being and not being, sexuality, love and death rub shoulders. The show takes place at the Studio in Warwick Arts Centre. Tickets: £13 (£11) Under 26s £10. Students £6.50.To book, go to www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Friday 13th St Johns House Ghost Hunt St Johns mansion situated in the heart of Warwick is said to be home of many residential ghosts. The cellar is a terrifying place there is male angry spirit who haunts here, Poltergeist activity is very common here, many guests refuse to go back into the cellars due to them feeling like they have been pushed and grabbed. The sound of doors banging is often heard. Will you be afraid of these cellars? For more information and how to book, go to www.paranormaleyeuk.co.uk

Saturday 14th David Baddiel: Trolls Not the Dolls David Baddiel comes back to the stage with a brand new one-man show, Trolls: Not The Dolls. Following his five-star Olivier-nominated hit My Family: Not The Sitcom and the return to number 1 of his seminal football anthem Three Lions, David Baddiel comes back to the stage with a brand new one-man show, Trolls: Not The Dolls. Trolls – the terrible people who spend all day insulting and abusing strangers for no other reason than to fill the huge gaps in their souls. There is a common wisdom about how to deal with trolls: don’t, for goodness sake, encourage these people by replying to them. It’s a good law.

And it’s one that David Baddiel has consistently broken. Because David has always seen trolls as hecklers, and if a comedian gets heckled, it is their duty not to ignore the heckler, but to wittily put them down.

Over the years, David has spent a lot of time doing this, which has led him to think that there might be a show in it: a show that would say something about how we live now. David has stories to tell, of the dark, terrible and hysterically absurd cyber-paths that interacting with trolls has led him down. Come with him on this comedy journey into our culture’s most dank virtual underground on the Main Stage at the Royal Spa Centre. You will come back safe, more able to deflect your own trolls, and only a little bit soiled. The event starts at 7.30pm. For more information, and to book tickets, go to www.warwickdc.gov.uk

Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd Mother’s Day at Stratford Butterfly Farm

Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th Midlands Garden Rail Show 2020 marks the 19th year of The Midlands Garden Rail Show which returns to the Warwickshire Event Centre in Leamington Spa. The show continues to go from strength to strength and is regarded as one of the leading garden rail exhibitions in the UK. The exhibition is well

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supported and organisers are expecting over 35 leading suppliers and 15 layouts and displays covering many gauges, attracting over 2,000 enthusiasts from all over the UK and Europe. Local clubs and societies will also be present showcasing their members work, and providing advice from their experiences. There will be leading specialist suppliers and retailers attending. Don’t forget that children under 5 enjoy free entry and children 5-14 years enter for just £4.50. Adults entry is £9 and for Seniors it is just £8.50. There is ample free parking and full restaurant facilities available at the venue. For further details and discounted tickets please go to www.midlandsgardenrailshow.co.uk.

Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd Mother’s Day at Stratford Butterfly Farm All Mum’s and their children and can take part in our popular Meet the Mini-Beast handling sessions and hold creatures such as a giant African millipede, African land snail and a variety of stick insects. These will take place at 12pm in the Discovery Zone.

Friday 27th - Sunday 29th Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show The Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show is the show to attend to kick-start the classic car season. Whether you are looking to ignite your passion to a finish restoration project or simply want to reminisce with family and friends over the beautiful completed classic cars on display, then go to the NEC Birmingham in March.The event brings together 1300+ cars on display, 170+ car clubs representing a wide variety of marques and models; 350 exhibitors and autojumblers including restoration companies, services providers and product suppliers; car auction, celebrities, car competitions and practical workshops on restoration skills. Opening time on Friday 27th March is 10am. and closing time is 5.30 pm. Closing time on Saturday 28th March is 6pm. n

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