Worcestershire Now APRIL 2019

Worcestershire

Now

*

THE SECRET GARDEN PLANNING YOUR BIG DAY VOLUNTEERING AND PARKINSON’S APRIL 2019 | ISSUE 187

PI C I’M K M FR E U EE P

* See our website for further details: kingfishershopping.co.uk

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

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Worcestershire

08

Now

APRIL 2019 HOME & GARDEN 08

The Secret Garden

14

Darren Spencer - A Bright Spark

16

OHMS - Garden Machinery

Sales, Service & Repair

18

Should I Downsize

20

Nature Notebook

20 26

HEALTH & BEAUTY 22

Put a Spring in Your Step

WEDDINGS 26

30

Planning Your Big Day

FOOD & DRINK 30

32

What’s in Season?

GOLDEN YEARS 32

Volunteering and Parkinson’s

EDUCATION 38

44

Hand in Hand For Oscar

OUR EVENTS DIARY 40

What’s on this month?

44

Competition Wychwood Festival

46

Keeping Active Blossom Trail -

Wickhamford to Childs Wickham

WO RC E S T E R S H I R E

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazine.co.uk 2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

38

EDITOR

DESIGN

CONTRIBUTORS

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

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

Daisy Bennett

ADVERTISING Rachel Seabright 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Wendy Carter Glynis Dray Crowthers Darren Spencer Electrical OHMS Parkinson’s UK Toys & Games Worcester Wychwood Festival

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope. DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 3 n your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA

£1.2 million in National Lottery Funding

Awarded to Worcestershire Community Projects Worcester. This will provide opportunities for people of all ages and disabilities to take part, where they can meet new friends and improve their fitness, physical and mental health. The funding will be used to purchase bespoke wheelchairs and to train coaches at the club which will be based at Perdiswell Leisure Centre. Worcestershire Wheelchair Rugby Club will officially launch in April – to find out more visit www.disabilitysportworcester.org.uk.

Kimberly Grenfell, Disability Sport Coordinator at Disability Sport Worcestershire, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, people will be able to take part in an exciting sport that is accessible to all. Anyone over the age of 12 is welcome to come along and have a go. We’ve held taster sessions over the past few months that have been so popular, where we’ve seen families, carers and friends all get involved. It’s a fantastic way of bringing people together to socialise, get fit and learn new skills.”

Community organisations across Worcestershire are celebrating today after being awarded over £1.2 million in National Lottery funding. The money, raised by players for good causes, is being distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK. In total, 45 community projects across the county are receiving a share. These range from a wheelchair rugby club to an animal therapy farm. Key villages, towns and cities, including Broughton Hackett, Redditch and Worcester, will benefit from the funding.

One of the projects celebrating is Safe Haven Parrot Refuge in Broughton Hackett. It has been awarded £10,000 to provide therapy using animals for people living with dementia and disabilities. The group currently visit care homes and community centres with their animals, but this funding will make their farm accessible to visitors, after receiving requests from many people wanting to visit the farm. n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Schools, care homes and families will be able to visit the farm from Saturday 16 March, which will provide a safe and peaceful space to improve people’s wellbeing, reduce loneliness and build friendships. The farm is home to a range of animals including alpacas, parrots, donkeys, goats, chickens, pigs and rabbits. To find out more contact Kim Spence on 01905 381748 or safehavenkim@outlook.com.

REDS Enterprise in Redditch has had a £10,000 boost so it can open a pop-up café that will be run by people with learning disabilities. This will provide them with more opportunities for volunteering and work experience, which is what people with learning disabilities told the group they would like. At the café, they will be able to build relationships with the local community by serving drinks, lunches and cakes, helping to improve their confidence and communication skills.

Disability Sport Worcestershire will use almost £10,000 to set up a wheelchair rugby club in

Matt Poole, Senior Head of Regional Funding for the Midlands at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “National Lottery money continues to change the lives of thousands of people across the West Midlands. From community-led projects that reduce loneliness and isolation to those looking at ways of tackling bullying amongst young people, this quarter’s funding has one thing in common – it’s all been awarded to groups with the ideas, knowledge and passion to make the changes they want to see in their local area. Thanks to National Lottery players, projects like Disability Sport Worcestershire are investing in what matters most to them and their community.”

The National Lottery Community Fund is responsible for giving out money raised by National Lottery players for good causes. It awarded more than £7.2 million in funding to over 300 community projects across the West Midlands this quarter. To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk. n

FINANCE OPTIONS NOW AVAILABLE

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HERE & NOW

Toys & Games of Worcester

is Celebrating 25 Years in Business family, customers, suppliers, everybody. Thank you The business has gone through many changes, through premises in Pershore, Cheltenham & Worcester and specialising in VHS Video, then DVD Video and now & for the last ten years toys & games. We’ve seen our customers grow with us, we have some who used to come in in pushchairs, now theyre pushing their own kids in in pushchairs

25 years ago on March 1st, director Timothy Evans started the business.

Originally as Evans Video, then The Videodrome and more recently The Superdrome and now Toys & Games Of Worcester. It was always his dream to run his own, sustainable business, it still is, but its also a pleasure. Thank you everybody who has helped along the way, staff, friends,

Crowthers - 30 Years Strong We are delighted to announce that it is over 30 years since the Pershore Office of Crowthers Chartered Accountants was established by Jonathan Crowther in 1989.

Many of the original clients from those early days are still clients today and so we would like to thank all our clients and other contacts for their ongoing support.

Our business has gone through many changes from the early days and today consists of 3 offices in the towns of Pershore, Ledbury and Cheltenham. We now have a team of 31 in total including a specialist farming team and the most recent addition is the recruitment of dedicated bookkeepers to support our clients in complying with Making Tax Digital (MTD).

Jonathan’s wife Alison is now our Practice Manager and she has been an employee throughout the last 30 years. Thank you for all your hard work! n

As for the future? We’re here to stay, we don’t want to do anything else, we love it. Here’s to the next 25 years. n

Knitting Forget Me Nots For Dementia Awareness Week

The Redditch and Bromsgrove Dementia friendly Community are reaching out to all the knitting community and asking for donations of the forget me not flower petal. We are asking for them to be knitted and delivered to Burcot Grange care home, Chandler Court care home, Bromsgrove library or Redditch library by the end of April ready for dementia awareness week which commences from the 20th May. We will be placing the flowers over Bromsgrove and Redditch for anyone to pick up. n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Materials Yarn and Needles: It doesn’t really matter what yarn you use. You can play with whatever is leftover in your stash. Just make sure to use the suggested needle size for your yarn and you’ll be good to go (if you knit on the tight side, I’d suggest going one needle size up)!

Pattern

Depending on the weight, one flower requires 2 to 3 yards of blue yarn for the petals and 1 yard of similar or lighter weight yarn in yellow for the centre. This will give you enough for the long tail for bookmarks.

right needle)

Notions and Accessories Tapestry Needle: Your choice: hair clip, pin backing, bookmark fabric etc.

right needle)

Knit Flower: There is only one row to this flower after you have cast on. Cast On 40 sts Row 1: K1, Bind Off 6 (you should have 2 sts on your right needle) K1, Bind Off 6 (you should have 4 sts on your

K1, Bind Off 6 (you should have 6 sts on your right needle) K1, Bind Off 6 (you should have 8 sts on your

K1, Bind Off 6 (you should have 10 sts on your right needle)

Your choice: yarn or thread to sew it onto the above, or a hot glue gun to glue it

Cut your yarn 8” long. Thread the 8” tail

Size and Finished Product Measurements: Varies according to what type of yarn is used

needle through each of the remaining 10

through a tapestry needle and pull that stitches on your needle. Secure tail and

Pattern Stitch Knit: You need to know how to cast-on, bindoff, and knit

shape flower. Sew in ends.

Gauge: Varies according to what type of yarn is used

centre. Satin stitch works well, or daisy stitch

Add yellow centre using any embroidery stitch you like to make a five-part yellow or French knots. Sew in ends. n

WORCESTER TOPS POLL OF KNOWLEDGEABLE NEIGHBOURS a real mix of people chatting, eating and just getting to know each other better. That’s what neighbourhoods should be about. Lots of vulnerable members of our society can go weeks without seeing or talking to another person, so anything that encourages a bit of human contact gets a thumbs up from me... and a double thumbs up if it involves cake!“ The Big Lunch, an idea from the Eden Project, made possible by The National Lottery, now In a new nationwide survey out today, Worcester tops the table of people knowing their neighbours name. A whopping 80% know who they live next door to, compared to the national average of just 60%.

better. Three quarters (77%) of people in

attracts millions of people across the UK. This

Worcester think it is better for communities if

summer it’s getting even bigger and is being

we know our neighbours and 75% would say

turned into a two-day event, June 1-2.

This is reassuring news for Presenter &

with the UK’s response to The Big Lunch, he

Over half (55%) of residents in Worcester have chatted with their neighbours in the past month.

Comedian Jo Brand, Ambassador of The Big

says: “Every year it keeps getting bigger as

Lunch. “At a time when the country feels so

more and more people realise the importance

divided and disconnected, it seems more

of community and the benefit of knowing their

important than ever to come together and

neighbours. We know that when people come

remember the importance of community

together good things happen and that is what

spirit. Every year millions of people get

The Big Lunch is all about. We’re thrilled to see

together to share food, have fun and get to

so many people across the UK joining in and

know each other better. Last year over 31,000

having fun as we know The Big Lunch is just

people took part in an estimated 350 Big

a spark that helps to build happier and more

Lunch events across Worcester. I went to my

resilient communities where people know one

first Big Lunch last year - a street party with

another and neighbourhoods thrive.” n

Despite nattering with the neighbours though, a poll of 4,000 people undertaken by The Big Lunch, revealed that 66% of all respondents from Worcester felt people were closer to their neighbours 20 years ago than they are today.

The good news is that there is a strong appetite for getting to know our neighbours

‘yes’ if a neighbour invited them round for tea.

Peter Stewart of the Eden Project is delighted

More and more home owners in Worcestershire are choosing to enjoy the benefits of retirement with a life-changing cash injection via independent specialists The Right Equity Release.

Through its Worcestershire-based financial advisor Robert Levy, home owners over 55 can release some of the equity hitherto locked up in their property tax-free. They can take it as a lump sum or in smaller amounts as and when required and spend the money exactly as they wish, whilst continuing to own their home as before.

As you’ve probably seen in the media, equity release is becoming increasingly popular. There are a number of different schemes from competing providers, so for such an important decision it is vital to seek expert, impartial advice and guidance.

Robert works through The Right Equity Release, a highly reputable national company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Also a member of The Equity Release Council, he offers a free initial consultation to provide you with a full understanding of the available options.

Thanks to him, many people are now enjoying retirement in ways they never thought possible, perhaps taking their dream holiday or repaying existing mortgages and loans and so benefit from increased cash flow. Some people choose to use the money to help their children or grandchildren get on the property ladder or fund university fees, effectively releasing their inheritance early while still being around to enjoy seeing the benefit.

Robert, who lives near Malvern, says: “Many people are unaware of what the latest products can offer. A Lifetime Mortgage for example is simply a loan secured on the property so you still own your home. The main difference between these and traditional mortgages is that with most schemes there’s no commitment to make any repayments or have any minimum income to qualify, the loan and any interest accruing is repaid upon the last death or moving into care.”

Robert Levy, Tel: 0800 145 5399 Mob: 07730 517671, email: robert.levy@therightequityrelease.co.uk or visit the website for more detail www.equityreleaseworcestershire.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

h T

c e S e

n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

G t e r

n e d r a

n pe i a c s te rfec e p e e th t a e Cr

n. rde a g n r ow u o y ED

NU

NTI

CO

R OVE

THE

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PAG

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

A hidden hideaway or a place for teenagers to have their own space, there are a multitude of benefits from having a secret garden.

But how do you create a secluded area away from your home to give yourself a peaceful and tranquil retreat?

We explore the different ways you can create your own space in the garden.

Shut out the world Close off a corner of the garden by adding trellis or fencing and introduce climbing plants around the base. Evergreen climbers such as trachelospermum Christbel Bielenberg and the clematis cirrhosa Ourika Valley are superb all year round, with the Ouika Valley having white bell shaped flowers throughout the colder months.

A smaller brick wall can also work wonders in separating a corner of the garden. Climbing plants ideal for walls include pyracantha, ivy, honeysuckle and the Virginia Creeper.

Honeysuckle are popular plants, with heavily scented flowers which can bloom during the spring, summer or autumn. Their nectar

n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

attracts hummingbirds and different species of butterflies, helping pollination.

For a more unusual take on the garden wall, stack logs ontop of each other of varying diameter to create an eco friendly retained wall.

Leafy Canopies Create a world of discovery by adding different layers of plants throughout your garden. Australian tree ferns are slowgrowing architectural plants with spreading fronds above a thick trunk. They create a sheltered and shady garden and can grow up to 6m.

For gardens that are short on space, a large shrub can provide a certain amount of privacy to tight spaces. The Japanese maple, not only has beautiful foliage but are hardy throughout the winter and can be placed in large containers for low maintence.

Home from home Secret doesn’t necessarily mean small.

A separate annexe to your house could provide valuable space for teenage children CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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Lifetime Guarantee on installation work Contact Chris direct on 07791661347 E: chris@crgkitchens.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

or elderly relative. Ginger Badger are a family

wooden step path, or use the wood panels

run construction business that design, develop

from old pallets, laid out for a relaxed look.

and construct beautiful oak framed buildings, extensions, stables and multi purpose garden rooms. They use traditional, sustainable materials with handcrafted methods, to create stunning additions to your home

Water feature The sound of running water has a calming effect and can bring about improvement in our health. Time spent around water can relieve stress and can be soothing for the mind. A

A smaller summerhouse can also create the

waterfall can also reduce noise pollution,

right environment to relax. Whether it’s to

blocking out the sound to create a quiet oasis

house a seating area for you to start a new

in an otherwise hectic and loud environment.

hobby, sit and have your favourite drink, or a space big enough to house a hot tub, a summerhouse is a perfect hub to wind away

A pond, however big or small has the added benefit of helping to save British wildlife.

The RSPB’s 2018 Birdwatch survey found that sightings of toads have fallen by a third and those of frogs were down by 17%. The dwindling numbers are due to a lack of natural habitat, with intensive agriculture and new developments major contributing factors.

Pond-planet.co.uk are starting a campaign to raise awareness of a world without frogs to ecourage homeowners to add this habitat back into their gardens. If you don’t have space for a pond, choose instead a bird bath to encourage wildlife back into your garden. n

By Daisy Bennett

the hours away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life.

Secret walkways Whether it’s a large annexe or summerhouse, add stepping stones or a mosaic pathway to your desired secret location. Design your own picture out of coloured pebbles or clay tiles to personlise your path or simply scatter bark chippings or smaller pebbles for a more discreet look.

Alternatively, large stone paths not only stand the test of time, but come in different sizes and textures. For a more rustic feel, create a simple n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Two bedroom annexe by Ginger Badger www.gingerbadger.uk

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

Darren Spencer

A Bright Spark

Finding a trusted domestic electrician is worth its weight in gold, which is why Darren Spencer Electrical has become the first choice for households across Worcestershire. achieved after thorough vetting and on-site inspections have been performed. The company’s core values echo that of TrustMark with the three cornerstones of quality being... Good Trading, Good Customer Service and Technical Competence.

With over 20 years’ experience in providing reliable, stress free domestic electrical services from changing a light bulb to fuse board upgrades and homebuyers reports, the team at Darren Spencer Electrical can deliver on all levels. Their unique six year insurance backed warranty on all work carried out guarantees peace of mind to the highest standard which stands the test of time.

Keeping up-to-date with the latest electrical regularity requirements is very important to the team at Darren Spencer Electrical. As experts in their field they take the burden of electrical safety off the homeowner.

They always advise customers requiring an electricians services to do their research... is the electrician accredited and do they hold the latest qualification for the work that needs to be carried out? It’s all very well having the experience but do they have the recent qualifications to back it up?

Darren Spencer Electrical are proud to be approved by the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC). Having the backing by the UK’s leading voluntary regulatory body for the electrical contracting industry, gives their customers the confidence that all electrical work being carried out will be completed to the highest standard. Plus, they are TrustMark certified, an accreditation that can only be n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Darren Spencer, the Founder of the business gives an insight into why their customer base just keeps on growing, he explains “The success of our business is definitely built on trust. Trust that we quote for electrical work accurately, trust that we use quality products for installation & testing and trust that we always do what we say we’re going to do. That even includes tidying up after ourselves as promised! One of our biggest pleasures comes from knowing we have customers who have been with us right from when the business began and who still use us now. Many of them over the years have been so impressed with our quality domestic electrical work and great customer service that they’ve referred friends and family to us too!”. Darren adds “Above everything else safety comes first every time. We pick up the pieces on so many jobs done by other electricians that either don’t meet current regularity requirements or which are just down right unsafe. We’re always at the end of the phone for anyone who believes their home electrics aren’t up to scratch and requires a full electrical health check”.

A health check normally starts with the fuse board as the centre of the electrics in your home. Since the 1st January, 2016, new regulation means that approved contractors must only install non-combustible material fuse boards. The main reason for this is the concern that older fuse boards containing fuse wire pose a higher risk of fire as well as contributing to larger household electricity consumption. n If you are concerned about the electrics in your home and for peace of mind require a full electrical health check with Which Trusted Trader Darren Spencer Electrical, please call 01905 915001 or email darren@darrenspencerelectrical.co.uk.

HOME & GARDEN

Willow Bank Residential Home Dementia specialist home in stunning rural location near Pershore • 24 hour personalised care for your loved one • Extensive activities schedule and regular events • Excellent home cooked meals and fresh cakes daily

“I would without reservation recommend Willow Bank. Their understanding of dementia care is second to none.”

Relative Review, carehome.co.uk Call us now to arrange a tour and an informal chat with the manager, Carole.

Tilesford Park, Throckmorton, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2LA Tel: 01386 556844 • Email: willowbank@bucklandcare.co.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 15 n

HOME & GARDEN

Garden Machinery Sales, Service & Repair One of the aspects of the British way of life is the pride and attention we pay to our gardens and one demonstration of that care that is changing rapidly is how much we now rely on powered equipment such as mowers, strimmers, chainsaws and similar tools.

More recently the introduction of ever more sophisticated technology,

particularly

in

battery powered tools, has resulted in a confusing array of products of varying quality and utility. There are however leading brands that offer very real improvements that can lighten the work load and offer significant advantages.

OHMS

of

Bridge

Street,

Pershore

is

particularly proud to be able to offer the leading brands in this field. Their stock of products includes the very latest battery powered tools for longer work life and reliability. They are also agents for classleading garden machinery manufacturers such as Husqvarna and Atco. Of particular note is the Husqvarna Robotic Movers, some of which use all the latest GPS and smartphone

technology

to

provide

a

completely autonomous mowing machine even within the most complex garden layout.

n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Atco have also not been resting on their wellearned laurels and have recently introduced a new twin cut blade design to their rotary mowers which greatly enhances the cutting performance.

With over 20 years’ experience in the small horticultural machine business Peter and Hayley Moffat and their team have the knowledge and skills to be able to offer sound practical advice to back their highly customer-focused service.

Such has been their ever growing reputation that OHMS now supplies their services to small estates and commercial horticulture businesses.

OHMS also offers a first class servicing facility for all types of garden machinery backed by a collection and delivery service. n OHMS LTD, The Garden Machinery Centre, 13 Bridge Street, Pershore, WR10 1AJ Tel: 01386 552886 Email: info@ohmsmowers.co.uk www.ohmsmowers.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

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If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

Should I

Downsize?

There are a number of reasons why downsizing to a smaller home is a good idea.

As the number of over 55’s looking to downsize in the UK grows the Home Owners Alliance looks to help you decide whether it’s right for you.

Why downsize?

Release equity: A common complaint after you retire is that you become asset rich but cash poor. By selling your house and buying a smaller, less expensive property you can free up equity locked in your home.

Reduce monthly outgoings: With low interest rates badly affecting returns on savings, you may decide to downsize simply to reduce the cost of bills. Current estimates suggest that you could make annual savings of over £500 on energy bills alone by relocating from a four bedroom to two-bedroom house.

Reduce your maintenance burden: Smaller homes obviously require less in the way of general maintenance.

Move to a better served location: If you’re living in wonderful rural isolation and depend heavily on driving to get to local amenities, you

might

want

to

consider

moving

somewhere with good transport links and a vibrant high street in close proximity.

Costs to consider The accumulative costs of selling a property n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

can be considerable and should be carefully considered and accounted for before downsizing. Stamp Duty, estate agent fees, conveyancing fees, clearance: Don’t underestimate the job of decluttering! and moving costs all add up.

Why do smaller houses look expensive compared to my 4 bedroom property? If you are looking to move to be closer to family, then you may be restricted in where you can move to and may end up competing with first time buyers, landlords, new families and the like who are also looking for smaller properties with gardens, amenities within walking distance and good transport links.

With low stocks of suitable housing helping to push property values upwards, it can be difficult for downsizers to find a suitable home at a price which will make moving worthwhile.

According to research by Legal and General, the number of houses built each year in this country is 25 times lower than the numbers needed to accommodate the 3.3 million over 55’s who currently want to downsize.

Downsizing options In many cases, if you own your home outright,

you will be looking for a straightforward sale on their current home to a smaller and (preferably) cheaper property. Other options, shared ownership or part exchange.

When should I downsize There is no right time, but there may be another life event that triggers you thinking about downsizing, such as retirement, the final payment on your mortgage or moving nearer to grown children and grandchildren.

It makes sense to consider downsizing before you get too old, as the accumulated stress, hassle and sheer timescale of negotiating and completing a house move should be easier to deal with at this stage, when you are still relatively fit and healthy, as opposed to later in life when illness or mobility issues potentially start to take their toll. The psychological or emotional upheaval of moving from a family home, full of poignant memories, or of saying goodbye to friends and family is another significant obstacle to factor in, but the sooner you move, the sooner you are likely to make new friends and feel settled. n For more information visit hoa.org.uk

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NATURE NOTEBOOK Blue Tit © Pete Cheshire

Feathers

Feathers. They’re amazing. When we watch our garden birds, we don’t usually give their feathers a second thought... perhaps we should.

Like our hair and fingernails, feathers are made from keratin. Not all feathers, however, are the same. Body feathers, for example, are different from flight feathers; the latter are longer and stiffer. Even flight feathers aren’t necessarily the same - if a robin flies past you, you’ll hear it; if a barn owl flies past you, you won’t. For a barn owl, it’s vital that its prey doesn’t hear it coming and so their feathers are loose, a little ragged and the front edges have spikes that move the air in a different way so it doesn’t ‘whoosh’ over them.

Tail feathers differ too. It may seem obvious when you think about it but a woodpecker or tree creeper would be lost if they were trying to cling to a tree with a duck’s tail! These boreal birds need really stiff tail feathers to help them balance against a tree as they search for food or make their home.

KEEP UP TO DATE Worcestershire Wildlife Trust @WorcsWT t worcestershirewildlifetrust G worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w

Like our hair, feathers grow and are replaced (although it takes more energy than growing our hair). Some birds moult many feathers at the same time – this can ground some birds for a short while – whereas others moult them bit by bit. It’s why many garden birds disappear from late July – they’re hiding away, trying to keep out of the way of predators whilst they’re at their most vulnerable.

All birds have downy feathers close to their bodies that they fluff up to keep them warm. It’s how they use the larger feathers, the ones that are visible at a

n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

distance, that are used to appeal to the opposite sex.

Take great crested grebes as an example. Most of the time you may wonder what the ‘crest’ in their name is for as they often look rather sleek. When they want to attract a mate or ward off a rival, though, they fan out their crest and look most impressive. Goldcrests, our smallest birds, do the same with a thin strip of gold along the top of their heads.

The black stripe down the front of a great tit’s tummy can indicate not just whether it’s female or male but how old (and experienced) it is; females have a thinner stripe, males have a thicker one that runs down between their legs. It isn’t always quite so easy for us or the birds. To us, blue tits look pretty much the same but they take their cues from the colouring of the crest – when seen with their ultra-violet vision, the feathers in their blue crests can be startling.

Starlings have the most beautiful iridescent feathers that change colour as the light hits them (males are glossier, females spottier) but they trade this beauty for a weakness in their feathers.

Next time you’re watching the antics of your garden birds, don’t forget to admire their beautiful feathers.

Visit www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk for more information about our work and Worcestershire’s wildlife. n Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

NATURE NOTEBOOK

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Gwillam’s Farm Shop OPEN Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Telephone: 01905 756490 Ombersley Rd. Claines, Worcester. WR3 7RH

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Put a Spring in Your Step Running low on energy after hibernating over the winter months? Get fit this spring, with these sure fire ways of boosting your health and well-being.

INSULATED DRINKS BOTTLE

Never need to take a plastic bottle with you again - use this high quality, super insulated marine grade stainless steel bottle (which will not corrode like others) to keep hydrated. www.redoriginal.com

BURLINGTON TRAINER GIRL

New ergonomic design features a plush sole and non-slip dots.

The moisture regulating material blend provides a comfortable climate during heavy activity. www.burlington.de

SOUNDSPORT FREE WIRELESS HEADPHONES

The SoundSport Free headphones were engineered to strike a new balance between size, performance, power and stability – in a no-wire, made-for-exercise design. www.bose.com

NORVIA ACTIVE PERFORMANCE SHAKES

Specially developed total nutritional formula from Nordic company Norvia. The product is a vegetarian protein plus 25 essential vitamins and minerals. www.norvia.com

LUMIE BODYCLOCK SPARK 100

Lumie lights are a real game-changer for people who want to get into shape by training in the morning. Spark 100 features the essential 30-minute sunrise and sunset plus a couple of popular customisations.

Available at John Lewis, Amazon, Lumie.

n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

AUSTER MODULAR SUSPENSUION TRAINER

Designed to be carried with you and used anywhere, the special anchor system and dual carabiner means it can be mounted anywhere and have straps and dynamic resistance bands attached to the same point, allowing for hundreds of exercises. www.austerfit.com

FREELETICS FITNESS APP

Dubbed a ‘personal trainer in your pocket’, the Freeletics Coach is powered by artificial intelligence, and is able to create an almost infinite number of HIIT workouts and training plans. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, the Freeletics Coach is able to learn from millions of users worldwide, determining which workouts and exercises will work best for you, continually analysing your development to make sure you’re constantly challenged, motivated and progressing towards your goals. www.freeletics.com

PROTEIN BALLS

With 8 unique flavours plus 3 clean protein sources to suit your taste, health and lifestyle. Plus the option of vegan or vegetarian our honest-to-goodness balls are deliciously sugar free and gluten free. www.theproteinballco.com

n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

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WEDDINGS

Planning Your Big Day There are a lot of things to consider when planning your perfect wedding.

Here are some handy tips to help you get started.

Location

budget and approximate number of guests.

Wedding Flowers

Where you decide to hold

Both of these pieces of information will be

With dozens of florists to choose from,

your wedding ceremony and

crucial when you begin the search for your

choosing one to create your wedding

reception is one of the most important and

dream venue. All venues have a maximum

flowers can be a difficult task. Your floral

costly decisions you will make. Therefore there

number of guests, for instance, and some have

arrangements will be one of the most

are a lot of factors and considerations to keep in

a minimum. If you have found an ideal venue for

important features of the decoration, so it is

mind before you commit yourself. Will you have

your wedding, but it is a bit out of your price

important to choose your designer carefully.

your ceremony in a church and go elsewhere for

range, enquire as to whether they have seasonal

your reception, or will you have the whole day in

or weekday discounts to cut down on the costs.

Catering

Photography

plan early. Book a caterer at least 12 months

Your wedding photographs will be the

before the wedding date if the engagement

singular lasting memory of your special day.

period permits. There are two types of

They are likely to be displayed in your home,

caterers: on-site (in-house) caterers and off-

as well as the homes of close family and friends

premises caterers. On-site caterers work

and will last for generations. The same is true

within a particular facility and provide all

of your wedding DVD. Therefore, choosing

catering services if you book your event with

your photographer and videographer is not a

that facility. You will typically find on-site

one venue? Do you want a traditional wedding, or a fun, unique wedding that is personal to you?

The options are endless. These days you can hold your wedding in a zoo, underground cave, aquarium, theme park, castle; the list goes on.

For this reason, it is important to establish the theme of your wedding before you set about choosing your venue.

The first things you should decide when you

task to be taken lightly. It is important to find

begin to plan your wedding should be your

someone who will capture your day perfectly.

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Finding a good caterer is paramount. So

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS

caterers at hotels, banquet halls and country

that matters is that you feel your absolute

your big day. Hair stylists and make-up artists

houses.

best on your big day. Don’t let anyone

are often most comfortable with their own

interfere with your dress choice!

tools and equipment around them.

Bridal Hair

Bridal Make-Up

The first thing to consider when trying to

Hiring a professional to apply your make-

choose a hair style for your big day is the

up for your big day is a popular choice

tone of the event. For an informal daytime

with brides. Ensure that the artist will offer

wedding, wearing your hair down is probably

a trial beforehand. Discuss your ideas prior

appropriate, while an up-do may be more

to the wedding and make sure that you are

suited to a formal evening occasion. Many

both on the same page. Many brides opt

brides choose to hire a specialist designer to

for a natural look on their big day, although

Off-premises

caterers

provide

mobile catering services for events held at nearly any location, indoors or outdoors.

If you find a reception facility with on-site catering service, be certain not to base your decision on location alone, as a beautiful locale will not be as fondly remembered if the food wasn’t to match. Always sample the catering menu.

Bridalwear exciting

style their hair on the day. This is advisable, as

some prefer to go for a glamorous style. This

aspect of wedding planning is deciding

a professional will be able to provide advice

option is becoming increasingly popular,

what you will wear on your big day. There

about what looks good with which face

which is logical. Often for special occasions,

are thousands upon thousands of wedding

shape, colour, accessories, veil and general

women will change their clothes, jewellery

dress styles, designs and options; there is

theme. If you do opt to hire a professional,

and accessories but not their make-up. The

literally a dress for every single bride. Often,

a ‘test run’ will often be included in the

difference between natural-looking make-

the style of dress you choose will fall in line

package. When you go for this appointment,

up and glamorous make-up is usually the use

with the tone of your big day. However, this

be sure to walk around with your styled hair.

of darker, more shimmering colours. These

is not a strict rule, merely a starting point.

Ensure that it is comfortable, and likely to stay

will give you a much more distinctive look

There is nothing to say that you can’t have

in place for the whole day. A general rule is,

than shades that naturally blend into your

the princess dress you have always dreamed

the more simple the better. Lots of hair pins

skin.Whatever your preference, don’t forget

of if you are getting married at a registry

can sometimes be uncomfortable, and a very

to discuss it thoroughly with your chosen

office. Likewise, if you are getting married

intricate do may be too delicate for the wear

make-up artist. If you are unsure, experiment

in a grand building, there is no rule against

and tear of a wedding day. Furthermore, it is

until you come across a look that will make

wearing a simple, elegant gown. The choice,

often a good idea to make an appointment

you feel a million dollars. You deserve

of course, is entirely yours. The only thing

with your chosen designer in their salon for

nothing less for your big day! n

Probably

the

singularly

most

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Tel: 01386 871300 | Email: events@salfordhall.co.uk | www.salfordhall.co.uk n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

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FOOD & DRINK

What's in Season?

Enjoy early spring in April and the seasonal foods that come with it, the most wellknown, of course, being lamb. Asparagus and apricots make their debut, and it’s also the season for tuna and crab. Buying what is in season is usually better value and is always at it’s tastiest.

Vegetables: Asparagus (lovely local fare just coming into season) Rhubarb and Spinach.

Meat: Lamb (Spring Lamb coming into season)

Fish and seafood: Crab, Salmon and Tuna Slow roast shoulder of lamb • 1 whole shoulder of lamb • Olive oil • Salt and pepper, for seasoning • 6 sprigs each fresh rosemary and fresh thyme • 1 bulb garlic, broken into cloves and unpeeled (crush half the cloves with a knife) • 2 red onions, quartered • 3 carrots, cut into batons • 2 sticks celery, sliced • 1 large leek, sliced • 4 or 5 ripe tomatoes, halved • 2 bay leaves • 1 x 375g tinned tomatoes • Half a bottle red wine or 1 x 375ml bottle dry cider

n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Method 1. Allow the meat to come to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F, gas mark 6).

2. Rub the lamb shoulder with a little oil, season with salt and pepper and place in a large roasting tin. Place in the oven and brown on all sides for about 15 mins.

3. Remove lamb joints from the oven and carefully place the rosemary, thyme, garlic, onions, carrots, celery, leek, fresh tomatoes and bay leaves into the roasting tin below one of the joint.

4. Pour the tinned tomatoes, wine or cider over the top of the joint and cover the tin with a double layer of foil. Return this to the oven for 10 mins, then lower the oven temperature to 140°C (275°F, gas mark 1) and cook for 2½ hrs or until the lamb is tender and sticky. Check the meat juices run clear.

Remove the first joint from the oven, place the lamb on a warm plate (allow to rest for 20 mins), remove the whole cooked vegetables and keep warm. Use the delicious juices to make gravy, if you like, adding a little redcurrant jelly to taste. Serve with the vegetables and gravy, accompanied by polenta or couscous and green beans. n

FOOD & DRINK

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• Revills home grown PGI Asparagus • • Seasonal vegetables • • Friendly staff • • Free parking • • Local food suppliers •

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 31 n

GOLDEN YEARS

g n i r k e r e t a n P u l d n Vo a

n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

s ` n o s in ED

NU

NTI

CO

R OVE

THE

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GOLDEN YEARS

Lots of people with Parkinson’s have told us that, despite the condition, they still share their skills in the local community.

As well as helping to change attitudes about Parkinson’s, this can improve your confidence and wellbeing. Arthur was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012. In this editorial from Parkinson’s UK. Aurther tells us about volunteering and getting involved with his local community.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with vulnerable people and building bridges between people from different backgrounds and communities. My wife Issy and I were one of the first married couples to volunteer with the VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) when we lived in Ghana in the early 1960s.

We were a great team then and we’re a great team now. I then had a career with the British Council and we lived and worked in lots of different countries around the world. Our current house in Yorkshire is our 18th home! I now volunteer at Rotary York Ainsty’s SpecSort project in York. We sort secondhand spectacles and get them ready to be recycled. The glasses are then taken by our own optometrist to different

African countries. It’s quite methodical

otherwise disadvantaged people. I’m very

work sorting the glasses but there’s a

open about my Parkinson’s and I have lots

friendly social atmosphere and we chat

of interesting conversations about it. I know

as we go. Issy runs workshops for another

lots of people who come to the project very

Rotary York Ainsty charity project, Days for

well and I make sure I introduce myself to

Girls, making feminine hygiene kits for girls

new people. I always find everyone to be

in developing countries. We sometimes

very thoughtful and concerned about my

run the 2 projects working side by side. I

welfare when I speak to them. My advice

also volunteer at a local project providing breakfasts for homeless, unemployed or

Award-winning Day Centre for adults in Redditch and Bromsgrove specialising in supporting people to live well with dementia, sensory impairments and disabilities

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Pavement Scooters | Road Legal Scooters | Powerchairs Wheelchairs | Rise Chairs | Stairlifts | Walking Aids | Bathing Aids

Join us for our

Care Fee Planning Seminar Wednesday 10th April, 6.00pm We will be holding a care fee planning seminar with Nicola Bywater who is an Independent Financial Adviser specialising in care fee planning.

Nicola will be joined by Lynda Bragg-Walker from Hallmark Hulme Solicitors who will be speaking about Wills and the Lasting Power of Attorney process.

If you would like to attend the event please call 01905 679 300 to reserve your place.

Drinks and nibbles will be available.

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GOLDEN YEARS

to other people with Parkinson’s is to try to keep a wide range of interests and a wide circle of acquaintances. My volunteering helps me do this.

With my Parkinson’s, I get very tired if I’m standing for too long, so rather than serve the food I tend to serve the tea and coffee and then sit and chat. It’s a great excuse to talk with people! I feel really valued when I volunteer, no question. Another of my interests is running a study group for U3A (University of the Third Age) on the Roman poet Horace. And I make a real effort to keep up my language skills in Latin, Greek,

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Portuguese, French and German. I find I’m physically slower than I used to be. This is frustrating as I was a marathon runner and a mountain climber, and was known as the fit one in the family. I go to a Parkinson’s dance group with Issy, which is brilliant and really helps. I’ve always enjoyed dancing and used to teach Scottish country dancing in Nigeria and India. Often I’m not feeling good first thing in the morning and I find it helps to force myself to get going, even if it’s just to pop out to buy a newspaper to get the legs warmed up. I also found that my handwriting got very small so I use a computer for all my writing now. I write articles for my church magazine and the British Council retirement association’s magazine. My advice to other people with Parkinson’s is to try to keep a wide range of interests and a wide circle of acquaintances. My volunteering helps me do this. Also, tell people you have Parkinson’s.

Find Out More Everyone has their own skills and talents they’ve developed through work, hobbies and life experience. Parkinson’s UK welcomes volunteers from all walks of life and we’ve got lots of opportunities for you to get involved.

About Parkinson’s • Every hour, someone in the UK is told they have Parkinson’s.

• It affects 127,000 people in the UK - which is around one in 500 of the population.

• Parkinson’s is a degenerative neurological condition, for which there currently is no cure. The main symptoms of the condition are tremor, slowness of movement and rigidity.

• Symptoms vary from person to person, so people with Parkinson’s can benefit hugely from local groups which provide support and an opportunity to share experiences with others in a similar situation.

Parkinson’s UK is the UK’s leading charity supporting those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s through cutting edge research, information, support and campaigning. n For advice, information and support, visit www.parkinsons.org.uk or call our free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.

GOLDEN YEARS

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EDUCATION

Hand in Hand For Oscar

Nearly 5,000 people queued in the rain over the weekend to see if they are a stem cell match for boy, five, battling rare cancer after his parents launched a desperate plea in hope of saving his life to the local media in Worcester.

Oscar Saxelby-Lee, from Worcester, has acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and his doctors say he only has three months to find a donor to help cure his cancer. This promoted thousands of people have tried to become stem cells donors to save little Oscar. He has already had chemotherapy since being diagnosed in December, but will need more aggressive treatment in order to overcome the disease. Oscar’s parents first became concerned when they noticed unexplained bruising on their son’s body, and in December they were told he had ALL. The family is now in a race against time to find someone who can donate blood stem cells – they say his chances of survival will ‘severely diminish’ if a donor isn’t found within three months. The crowds of people turned up to an event at Pitmaston Primary School in Worcester, where Oscar is in reception class, over the weekend to see if they could be a

n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

match. The charity which will test the swabs, DKMS, said its previous record for a single event was 2,200 people – meaning Oscar’s more than doubled that. Oscar’s teacher Sarah Keating told the press: ‘I’ve been teaching for 20 years and I’ve never had a child go through something like this. ‘You hear about children getting cancer and you think “that’s dreadful”, then you move on. In this case we haven’t moved on, we will fight this.’

ALL is a rare illness and only affects around 650 people in the UK each year, around half of whom are children. It is a fast-growing, aggressive cancer which causes large numbers of underdeveloped white blood cells to be released from diseased bone marrow. These blood cells continue to spread and cause symptoms like tiredness, difficulty breathing, pale skin, fever, and bone and joint pain.

Oscar’s teaching assistant Laura Senter, 22, said to the press “his diagnosis came as a shock to their class because his illness developed so quickly. I couldn’t believe it.

I saw him before Christmas and he was his usual happy-go-lucky self.” Oscar’s mother, Olivia, said he has been ‘a true warrior’ throughout his illness “It’s a nightmare for

this to happen. You can’t really do anything about it, it’s heart-breaking. We have gone into action mode to try and find a donor.”

About 80 volunteers queued outside in the rain and took over two of the school’s halls for the weekend, handing out swabs and completing donor registration forms.

Scientists will try to find a donor whose blood cells have a similar structure to Oscar’s so his body will accept them if they are transplanted. He needs a stem cell transplant to replenish his own blood cells, which are being destroyed by chemotherapy – the closer the match is, the more likely the treatment is to work. Ms Senter added: ‘I visited Oscar in hospital last month when it was his birthday. ‘Because of all the chemo he was very swollen but you could tell he was very much still him inside.

Sarah Gray, spokesperson for the charity DKMS told the BBC Hereford & Worcester: ‘It’s really difficult to find a match, it’s essentially like winning the lottery. ‘It’s very complex and so the more people we can get on that register, the more chances there are to saves lives of patients like Oscar.’ n

EDUCATION

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What's On

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH

Saturday 6th

Come and Sing Workshop - Beethoven’s mass in C at Worcester Cathedral

APRIL Thursday 4th Astaria String Quartet It doesn’t matter if you’re a classical music novice or enthusiast; there will be something tonight for everyone to enjoy. it may even be something you’ve never heard before!

The event takes place at Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate 7.30-10pm.

Friday 5th Aston Under Hill, Spring Foraging Course Ashton under Hill is a lovely little village in the Wychavon district of Worcestershire, making it within easy reach of Evesham, Worcester, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stratford-uponAvon, Bromsgrove and even Redditch. We will meet at the Star Inn, a friendly country pub in idyllic surroundings. The course starts there with a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers. Drinks are available from the pub.

After the course we will email you a list of everything we talk about on the day; to help you remember what you have learnt. The event takes place 11am- 2.30pm. There are limited spaces available so please book your tickets online. n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Saturday 6th Come and Sing Workshop Beethoven’s mass in C Join amateur singers from across the country for this one-day choral workshop hosted by Worcester Festival Choral Society, exploring Beethoven’s majestic Mass in C in the magnificent surroundings of Worcester Cathedral. The day will include singing, vocal tips, teamwork and an informal performance – all in the company of around 100 other musically minded people. The workshop will be led by Worcester Cathedral director of music Dr Peter Nardone and accompanist.

You don’t have to have choral experience, but some ability to read music is useful.

We’ll lend you a vocal score for the day and lay on free tea and coffee within the ticket price. Regstration starts from 9:30am, with the first singing session at 10.15am. Adults £20. Full time students £10 (under 18s accompanied by an adult). Online bookings and a full information leaflet available from the WFCS website from Jan 2019.

Martin Turner ex Wishbone Ash-Wishbone Gold The Spring 2019 Wishbone Gold tour will see Martin and his band performing 1976’s iconic New England album – as well as other

favourites from the classic era of Wishbone Ash, including Argus highlights. New England was written and recorded in the loose environment of a basement rehearsal facility set up at Martin Turner’s Connecticut home, resulting in an album that was brimming with live energy. With a mix of powerful rock numbers such as Runaway and Mother of Pearl, alongside melodic cuts like Lorelei and You Rescue Me, the album was an instant crowd-pleaser. Martin Turner’s Spring 2019 shows will mark the very first time New England has been performed in its entirety on stage, and this tour is an event that no Wishbone Ash aficionado will want to miss.

The event takes place at Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate 7.30 pm-10pm.

Alvechurch French Dance and Music Come and enjoy a variety of traditional French dances, Bourrees, Scottisches, Polkas, Mazurkas, Waltzes, Breton etc. All abilities of dancer and musician welcome.

This is an afternoon event, from 2.30-5pm.

Please bring your own refreshments. There will be a small charge (max £2) to defray the cost of hiring the hall.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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What's On Sunday 7th Spring Show Bishampton Village Hall, Worcestershire WR10 2LY. Come, enter or just enjoy our first foray into the colours of Spring with displays of tulips, daffodils, and other seasonal plants. You can download a programme of the classes from our website, or contact the club for a printed copy. Entries and staging 9-11am. Show itself 2-4pm 50p entry, exhibitors and children free. www.bishamptongardeningclub.org.uk

Friday 12th Phil Phillips International Clairvoyant Come and join Phil Phillips where he will be bringing forward messages from your loved ones. Not a night to be missed at Worcester Whitehouse Hotel, Foregate Street, 7.309.30pm. Limited Spaces. £10 per person.

Tuesday 16th So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs – Starring Dr Ben Garrod Dr Ben presents an interactive, educational and highly entertaining show using film footage from the BBC’s Planet Dinosaur.

So come and test your knowledge against Dr Ben in this hit live interactive show at Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate that is bigger and better than ever! Ages 5+, 3-5pm.

Running Time approx. 1hr 45mins including interval. For more details, call 01905611427.

Saturday 20th Plant Hunters’ Fair at Bodenham Arboretum With free entry to this Plant Fair the event offers the opportunity to pop along and visit many specialist nurseries from across the country to get your gardening season off to a great start. All the nurseries attending are happy to offer expert advice to help less experienced gardeners select the right plants for their gardens. “For true ‘plantaholics’ there are always those little treasures to discover that can’t be obtained elsewhere.

The visitor centre and lakeside restaurant are housed in an award winning environmentally sensitive building and serve a wide variety of home cooked meals and light refreshments including meats from the farm or why not enjoy the spring weather and take your tea on the terrace overlooking the main pool.

The plant fair run from 10am – 4pm on Easter Saturday with free entry to the Plant Fair and excellent Lakeside Restaurant.

Entry to Beautiful 156-acre arboretum with over 3000 types of trees and shrubs is optional at normal prices. Free parking.

For full details of nurseries attending please see at www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk Greatest Showman, Sing-a-long Sing a long to the songs you can’t get out of n 42 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

Sunday 7th

Spring Show at Bishampton Village Hall your head from your new favourite musical!

Fancy dress encouraged, participation and enjoyment essential! Please note this is a screening of the movie not a live stage show.

Screenings at 2pm and 7pm at the Swan Theatre, The Moors. For more information, call 01905611427.

Monday 22nd Churchill Forge Water Mill Open Day The Forge was one of the last working water powered forges in the country, making hand tools such as spades, shovels and ladles. The Bache family ran the Forge from before 1800 until it’s closure in 1969. Today the Forge still looks much the same as it did in 1900. On the open day both water wheels will be turning, driving some of the original machinery.

Open 2pm – 5pm. For more information go to churchillforge.org.uk Animal Mania Meet a host of animals at Hartlebury Castle at 11-2pm including baby rabbits, chicks, chinchillas, skunks, and snakes and enjoy children’s craft activities.

For more information, go to www.hartleburycastle.com.

Tuesday 23rd The Spencer James St George’s Day Special Spencer James has been the lead vocalist and guitarist with the legendary sixties group The Searchers for the last thirty three years and has seen phenomenal success with them over that period of time. With The Searchers retiring at the end of March 2019, Spencer has agreed to do this first ever solo theatre show at Huntingdon Hall, hosted

by John “JB” Banner, supporting Breast Cancer UK. The show is from 7.30-10pm.

All tickets £15, to book call 01905 611427.

Further details can be obtained from www.johnbanner.uk

Friday 26th - Saturday 27th The Rustic Folk, Acoustic & Roots Music Festival The Rustic Folk, Acoustic and Roots Music Festival will be returning in 2019 for its second year. Held at The Rustic on Hopley’s Family Campsite, Bewdley, Worcestershire.

The Festival is hosting 27 great acts over two days, with continuous music alternating between two indoor stages. Incredible music, great food, reasonably priced and all in a lovely setting. Come along for the day or the weekend. The festival is family friendly and dogs are welcome. Discounted camping prices available for festival goers. Please see the website www.therusticfolk.co.uk

Saturday 27th Mambo Jambo in Concert Acoustic Roots Music A truly unique two-piece with their own rhythmic and joyful sound they’ll take you on a musical journey bringing together sounds from roots, world, folk and jazz, plus their own compositions. With Frankie on sax, vocals, clarinet, flute, guitar and spoons plus other percussion and Pete on guitar, vocal, ukulele, tres (traditional Cuban guitar), banjo, accordion and suitcase! Pete and Frankie have been gathering admirers at shows and festivals the length and breadth of the country. A fabulous musical treat is in store wherever they roll up, their tour bus. Concert starts at 7.30pm – bar opens at 6.45pm. We will be holding a raffle in aid of Sight Concern.

Tickets are just £8 (or pay on the door) and are available from the Ark office Monday to Friday between 9am and 2pm, email – thearkalvechurch@yahoo.co.uk or call Ian in the office on 0121 447 7955. Ian Price, The Ark, St Laurence Church, School Lane, Alvechurch, B48 7SB.

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What's On

Competition Wychwood’s 15th year celebrations Wychwood Festival returns to the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside to celebrate its 15th year in style on 31 May - 2 June 2019.

With more than 100 acts performing across four stages, plus a plethora of activities offering something for all ages to enjoy.

Voted the UK’s favourite family festival, this year’s line-up so far includes headliners and legendary punk band The Stranglers, 80s new romantic heroes ABC, and pop rock sensations Scouting for Girls; plus T’Pau, Toyah, Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club, Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band, Mr B the Gentleman Rhymer, DJ’s Steve Davis (yes the snooker player!) and Kavus Torabi, Bez, Count Skylarkin, Tankus The Henge, John Otway and Wild Willy Barrett and many more, including Wychwood’s world famous house band Thrill Collins.

As well as amazing musical entertainment, Wychwood hosts a packed programme of workshops, dance and music sessions, circus skills, crafts and a kids’ literature festival, as well as a well-curated programme of talks, debates and comedy for all ages, with lots aimed at families to do together.

Aardman Animations will bring model making classes for everyone to create and take home their favourite character. The Olá Samba Bateria brings a taste of Brazil, and Tiny Wild Fox is a collective of actors

and interactors who will be running sports, games and activities for the whole family, joining Chichi Fit, Mr Dilly’s World of Wonder, Jo Porter’s Kitchen Dancing, comedy juggler Ben Cornish, and family songs with Nick Cope, with more to come.

The latest additions to the workshops programme include the Danceworks Studio, pre-school yoga sessions with Andrea from Tatty Bumpkin, Robot and Retro gaming experts Raspberry Jam, with Junk Drumming workshops and World Class Street Theatre set to delight.

Music and light adventure playground specialists Bleephaus will bring an unusual mix of bald head hoopla, slow motion movement, robotic dance, contact juggling and audience participation. And join Sohan Kailey for live family stage shows performing songs from Bhangra, Bollywood, Dino Rocks, Bhangra Pirates and more.

Other attractions include Magical Musical Theatre, The Art and Science of Rockets, The Maverick Mime Show, ukelele for adults and children, Gospel/Harmony Singing, Music Technology and Kashaka, plus Family Boogie, Belly Dance, Belly Rock, Sea Shanties and Melody Mamas and board games.

Plus there’s loads of crafts including screen printing, jewellery enamelling, space discs, Cool-a-Shakers, Hackspace, Robotics, Funny

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL Festival figures, Still Life, Masks, Friendship Bracelets, Head Dresses, Flags and Banners, Magical Masks, Shakers, Giant Origami, Raggy, Withies, painting.

And an open Mic Session gives everyone a chance to perform, along with poetry for all ages and plenty more besides.

For cycling enthusiasts, Wychwood has launched discounted festival tickets when purchasing a Red Fox Cycling Tour through the English countryside – a chance to make new friends, reduce your environmental impact and enjoy picturesque beauty, with start locations in Bristol, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.

With optional idyllic camping and something to satisfy all appetites, it’s no wonder Wychwood has been nominated as ‘Best Family Festival’ each year at the UK Festival Awards.

And kids under 5 go for free!

Tier Three tickets are almost sold out but are currently still available. For further info and to buy tickets head to www.wychwoodfestival.com Facebook - @wychwoodfestival Instagram - @wychwoodfestival Twitter - @WychwoodFest www.wychwoodfestival.com Wychwood Festival is offering readers the chance to win two weekend camping tickets. Please visit the Worcestershire Now Facebook page for details on how to enter. n

Visit the Worcestershire Now Facebook page for details on how to enter! n 44 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

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KEEPING ACTIVE Start / Finish: The walk starts/ends at Wickhamford Church.

Public Transport: The nearest railway station is at Evesham. R4 Buses run periodically throughout the day between Evesham and Broadway (ask for Badsey Lane turn at Wickhamford). More frequent bus service to/from Badsey which adds 2 extra miles to walk see sketch-map). Please check current timetables/Traveline. Local people have been very helpful with information, historical detail, local knowledge and other factors contributing to this walk.

Parking: There is plenty of street-parking in Wickhamford but please respect local residents and park sensitively. There is a car park outside the Church for individual cars but not larger walking groups.

Blossom Trail

Wickhamford to Childs Wickham

O/S Maps: Explorer 205 and Outdoor Leisure 45 (most of walk is on OL45).

Distances: 7 miles with shorter option of 4 miles Time: Allow all day for main walk so that you can enjoy a picnic on the way and enjoy this rural walk at a leisurely pace.

Refreshments: There are no shops along the route so please ensure that you take a picnic and sufficient water/snacks.

Terrain: The villages at each end can be explored by wheelchairs and pushchairs but the main walk is rural with kissing-gates, stiles, footbridges and steps. The walk is across a floodplain so in the unlikely event of a flood, please do not attempt this walk. Dogs should be on leads for the majority of this walk as it is across a vast area in food production.

History: Both villages are steeped in history with excellent examples of timberframed buildings and cottages built of local Cotswold limestone. Wickhamford has a beautiful dovecote and an old watermill nearby and Childswickham has plots exemplifying the old ‘ridge and furrow’ field system. There have been Roman finds including 5 coins and there is evidence of a lost Medieval Village nearby. Both villages have noteworthy Churches.

1. With St. John the Baptist Church, Wickhamford on left, notice community orchard on right. Go down track turning right up Wickhamford Lane to footpath on left. Cross Badsey Brook, walk across field and through gate. Walk diagonally left to footbridge, go through kissing-gates keeping Badsey Brook on left until you reach old road.

2. Cross between roads to kissing-gate beyond that takes you onto A44 at foot of ‘Pitchers Hill’ – look for orchards old and new on its southwest slopes. Cross to large farm-gate opposite. This hillside has been a provider of apples, pears and plums for several centuries. Recently there has been a revival – regenerating the old and establishing new orchards. Nearby Aldington, the slopes around Evesham/Pershore and ‘The Lenches’ are favoured areas for orchards. On your journey here today, you may have seen some! Low and close ridges in fields are sometimes clues to former orchards. Go through gap ahead and shortly you will pass a lovely old watermill which once harnessed the power of Badsey Brook to grind wheat grain into flour. Cross the next ½ mile long field diagonally to a footbridge over Badsey Brook which is now on your right.

3. The fields to east and south of ‘Lower Farm’ were previously orchards. From Lower Farm, follow drive round to Murcot.

4. Turn left along lane and take footpath through kissing-gate on right. You are aiming for Childswickham and can see its slim Church spire in the distance. Keeping hedge on left cross several fields, walking due south to Hinton Road. Bredon Hill is on right and Broadway Hill with its tower on left.

5. Cross Hinton Road, through a kissing-gate and down left side of next field and along bottom to footbridge. Curve round ‘right’ edge of next field to stile near far corner and walk to Bridleway. Turn left along lane to cross-roads.

6. Go straight ahead passing ‘Manor Farm’ to old preaching cross on green at Childswickham. Turn right to visit church. Take path left of Church, left again, over footbridge crossing smaller Badsey Brook and down track to Vicarage Lane. Turn left to junction taking ‘bridleway’ through barrier on right. Walk down Twitchams Lane. Turn left then right up Blacksmith’s Lane, past children’s playground to Hinton Road. n 46 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019

7. Go through kissing-gate opposite and walk with hedge on right across two medieval ‘Ridge and Furrow’ fields. Approaching Perrins Farm, cross double stile on right, pass farm then left through gap to continue walking northwards, hedge on right then hedge on left to reach Old Well Farm. Go through gap beyond farm and continue walking northwards on right side of next three fields, crossing two more fields to lane (‘Murcot’ to left).

8. Cross lane and walk straight on, then walk on right of ditch to bridleway, through gate and turn right keeping to right of field and through metal gate onto A44. Turn right, crossing to Badsey Lane.

9. Shortly, turn right through Wickhamford.

10. At corner (dovecote opposite) turn left and follow lane round to Church where walk ends. n Written and illustrated by Glynis Dray

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n 48 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 187 | April 2019