Worcestershire Now - AUGUST 2022

HOW SAFE IS YOUR HOME? A GUIDE TO RETIREMENT HOMES TUTOR PROGRAMME CHANGES AUGUST 2022 | ISSUE 220 t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n

NEWS • HOMES • GARDENS • HEALTH & BEAUTY • GOLDEN YEARS • PUZZLES • WHAT’S ON

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

Worcestershire

Photo courtesy of Ensign Conservatory Roof Solutions. Visit www.ensignroof.co.uk

Now

08

20 22

AUGUST 2022 HOME & GARDEN 08

Home Security

18

More Hot Weather on the Way?

20

Your Chance to Help Change the World

22

Nature Notebook

GOLDEN YEARS 24

The Pros and Cons of Retirement Villages

24

Quality care you can trust in Worcestershire

EDUCATION 30

Schools Options for the National Tutor Programme Narrow

24

30

WHAT’S ON 32

Puzzles

34

Great Days Out

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

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd

EDITOR

ADVERTISING

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

DESIGN

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

Wendy Carter, WWT Care UK Colwell Park The Eco Experts Everyone Active Open University Worcester Theatres Worcestershire County Council Worcestershire Open Studio

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

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

WHAT A TREE-T!

HEREFORDSHIRE HOTEL PLANTS TREE IN HONOUR OF LONGEST RETURNING GUEST Staff at a hotel located on

“I have to say that the newly decorated rooms

the

and

were absolutely lovely, everyone was so kind,

Worcestershire

have

the service was excellent and the food was

planted a tree in honour of their longest

Herefordshire

border

marvellous. I am looking forward to returning

returning guest.

with more family again soon and to see how much the tree grows over time.”

Colwall Park, a dog-friendly country house hotel, planted a blossom tree to celebrate

In the year 1945, Anne Dunn, who was just six

Anne Dunn, the hotel’s longest returning

years old at the time, embarked on her first

guest of nearly 80-years.

family holiday to Colwall Park and enjoyed it so much, she continued to visit all these years later.

After first visiting Colwall Park almost eight decades ago, Anne has plenty of memories to reminisce over, with her most recent visit with her family and puppy, Bronte, this Easter where Anne was gifted a tree to commemorate her time spent at the hotel.

General manager, Matt Homans, said: “We love to celebrate every guest that stays with us at Colwall Park, but there has always been one particular guest that we have held dear to our hearts - Anne Dunn.

“From starting her holidays at the hotel during the Second World War to meeting the world-renowned artist, Dame Laura Knight, Anne is most definitely a part of the Colwall Park family and it has been so lovely to be able to give something back to Anne to show our huge appreciation for her and her family.”

Talking of the tree donation, Anne Dunn said: “It was a wonderful surprise and so lovely to have a tree planted in my honour. I particularly loved the plaque that includes not just my name but my husband’s name too.

Reflecting on one of her favourite things about Colwall Park, Anne said: “There is such a lot to choose from! I think that it has such a lovely, warm, welcoming feeling. I think I associate it with when I was little which brings back so many nice memories. The staff are amazing

“I was joined by my daughter, my son in law and their three boys and we had such a wonderful weekend together. The weather was amazing and we managed to fit so much in just the space of two days. From long walks up in the Malvern Hills, enjoying drinks in the garden to a quiz night with the locals.

“Bronte was also having so much fun in the garden, especially with the other dogs but what was truly amazing was while we had our breakfast, Bronte was also served her own meal to enjoy with us.”

and always so helpful too.”

Anne has enjoyed every trip she has had to Colwall Park and doesn’t plan on stopping her visits any time soon. As the hotel’s longest returning guest, Colwall Park has been an integral part of her life that she has shared with friends and family over so many years. n To find out more about the hotel, or to inquire about a reservation, you can find Colwall Park online at www.colwall.co.uk or call the helpful team on 01684 540 000.

ORCHIDS DISCOVERED AS CITY COUNCIL BIODIVERSITY PLAN BLOSSOMS Worcester is looking blooming

– reducing the fertility of the ground and thus

In 2020 the city council declared a biodiversity

beautiful this summer – thanks

allowing native wildflowers to flourish. Ninety

emergency, recognising that action needs to

to

seven percent of similar hay meadows have

be taken immediately to stop the decline of

measures taken by the City Council.

been lost since WWII.

native species. This year has seen even more

The council’s policy of planting wildflowers

Councillor Karen Lewing, vice chair of the

and leaving some areas to nature itself is

Environment Committee, said: “We’ve had

paying dividends – and has resulted in what

such a lot of positive feedback about how pretty

The

is believed to be a first for the city – several

Worcester is this summer – but of course, it’s

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Worcester

southern marsh orchids. Around a dozen of

not just about that – our colourful displays of

Environmental Group, Severn Rivers Trust

the plants have appeared in Trotshill Field,

wildflowers are also providing the ideal habitat

and the RSPB. n

one of several sites that the City Council has

for a whole variety of insects and wildlife.

biodiversity-boosting

managed as traditional hay meadows for the last three years.

roadside verges in Worcester filled with a host of native wildflowers. council

is

working

alongside

To find out more about the City Council’s

“We’re absolutely delighted to see southern

plans

to

boost

biodiversity,

go

to

marsh orchids in one of our meadows and we’re

www.worcester.gov.uk/climate-emergency/

In the meadows, the grass is cut and the

excited to see what other rare or unusual species

enhancing-biodiversity.

cuttings removed in summer and late autumn

will return to the city in the coming years.”

www.theweg.org.uk/wild-about-worcester

n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

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HERE & NOW

WELL-LOVED ANNUAL ART EVENT IS BIGGER AND BETTER FOR 2022 Worcestershire Open Studios the well-loved free annual art event, where artists throw open their doors to the public, returns this year bigger and better, running over ten days from 20-29 August 2022.

Artists and makers across the county will welcome you into their homes or studios giving you behind the scenes access into how they make their work. All studios are free to visit. There is a diverse range of artwork to see - painting, sculpture, printmaking, jewellery, ceramics, photography, textiles, furniture making and lots more. 108 artists are taking part across 91 venues, with 36 artists new for this year. Artists are excited to share their work and how they work. This is the first time the event is over ten days, so there’s more opportunity than ever to see the artists taking part.

“It gives you access to the vibrant and creative makers we have on our doorstep, to be able

to meet them and enjoy looking at local art.

Learn and ask questions, see the tools and materials they use, you may even have the chance to have a go.” said Gillian Simpson of Worcestershire Open Studios.

garden overlooking an old cider orchard,

Bic Beaumont, a painter and printmaker who has been part of Worcestershire Open Studios for five years said “Visitors may see me carving, painting or printing during the weekends. I’m influenced by animals, nature, folk and fairy tales, where I can I use recycled, compostable, biodegradable products and repurposing materials that would otherwise go to waste. There will be a variety of originals, prints, greeting cards, homewares and gifts available to purchase.”

Visitors are also encouraged to explore our

Deborah Catesby, who has also taken part before, said “I work as an oil painter making figurative paintings - pictures of people, stories and places full of colour, movement and life. At my studio, set in a lovely meadow

myself and fellow figurative artist Erin Conel, will show paintings, as well as drawings and works on paper, to intrigue and fascinate you, with some for sale.”

beautiful county, and plan an inspirational day out. Printed guides are available in libraries and tourist information centres from July, or can be downloaded from the website, and have all the detail on the artists taking part. n Full details are also available on the new Worcestershire

Open

Studios

website,

where you can search for artists by art form, location or, new this year, by theme. www.worcestershireopenstudios.org.uk Check the website or printed guide for an artist’s opening times as these vary and not all artists are open every day.

LEISURE CENTRE SET TO LAUNCH FREE MEMBERSHIP FOR CHILDREN IN CARE AND CARED EXPERIENCED YOUNG PEOPLE A leisure centre in Bromsgrove is set to offer free memberships to children in care and care experienced young people from this month.

Bromsgrove Sport and Leisure Centre run by award-winning operator Everyone Active in partnership with Bromsgrove District Council is taking part in the new initiative to reduce the barriers between children and young people participating in sport and physical activity.

The free membership will give them access to a range of facilities depending on their age, including gym, swim, soft play and group exercise.

According to latest figures from the Department for Education for children looked after (CLA) in England, the number of children in care is at an all-time high, at more than 80,000 children or 67 in every 10,000.

This year, Everyone Active has launched its national Community Health and Wellbeing Strategy, with the aim to meet the needs of individual communities through programmes that support people to be physically active, and to feel happy and healthy. n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

As part of the strategy, this membership will support children in care or care experienced young children with free access to leisure facilities that can help improve their physical health and mental wellbeing.

and feel this membership will make a real

The complimentary membership for cared for children and care experienced young people can be accessed and set up through a referral system from local Council Family support teams.

we want to offer them a safe space to enjoy

Lloyd Barraclough, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said: “We are immensely proud to launch this partnership in Bromsgrove District Council. We understand the vital role we play in supporting all areas of the community

difference to many young people’s lives.

“We want to provide opportunities for young people and children who have been in or currently are in care, that activity is for all, and our sports and activity offering.”

Bromsgrove

District

Councillor

Michael

Thompson whose portfolio covers Leisure, said: “We are committed to making activities available to and affordable for all of our communities and this latest move supports that.” n www.everyoneactive.com/about-us/ what-we-offer/health-and-wellbeing/

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 7 n

HOME & GARDEN

e S e

y t r i u c

m o H

safe w Ho

n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

e? hom r u o is y

ED

NU

NTI

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R OVE

THE

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HOME & GARDEN

Protecting your home is one of life’s most pressing priorities. There’s an ongoing need to keep your home, family, and priceless possessions safe – especially with government statistics about burglary revealing there were more than 1.3 million household thefts in England and Wales during 2018 (an 8% rise from the previous year).

Don’t worry though – we’ve got you covered.

From defensive home security tips to more proactive steps, these are the best ways to protect against a traumatic and costly attack on your home.

1. Lock everything When it comes to home security tips, this may sound obvious – and with reason – but locking all of your most common entry points has to be step one on your checklist. Make sure that your front door, side gate, and garage door are all locked, and are able to withstand someone trying to break the door or its lock. Britain’s police force warns that in most burglaries, the thief simply uses the front door, either by kicking it down or forcing the lock. A 2017 survey

by MoneySupermarket also showed that 74% of burglars enter homes this way. n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

2. Secure your door Check that your door is solid enough to pose an obstacle to burglars, and think about whether fitting a bar might help make it more secure. Consider contacting a professional at the Master Locksmiths Association to check if your external doors meet British security standards (known as PAS 24:2016).

3. Keep your keys away from intruders After you’ve secured your doors, render burglars even more powerless by making it impossible for them to reach in and steal your house or car keys. While you could buy a letterbox cage, the easiest way to solve this issue is by simply keeping your keys out of reach of intruders. That means that if you have a key bowl or a row of keys hanging near the door, they should be kept at a safe distance.

And of course, if you are unfortunately burgled in this way, make sure to change your locks.

4. Get an alarm system If the nightmare scenario happens and someone breaks into your home, you’ll want to know – you’ll want your neighbours to know, and you’ll certainly want the police to know. Alarm systems fulfil this function, with sensors detecting intruders before playing a loud, high-pitched sound to alert you to

danger and encourage your unwelcome guest to leave.

Some systems even allow you to add a helpful feature like CCTV cameras, to capture thieves in the act. If you choose this option, make sure they’re able to take high-resolution images which will help officers to catch the criminal – grainy, pixelated pictures help no-one.

If you want to stop unwanted guests before they enter your home, you can use detectors to identify when someone applies pressure to the outside of a window or door. These systems can spot motion, or even detect sound waves. And if a burglar manages to get in your window, glass-break detectors will prompt your alarm to start.

5. Protect your windows On that subject: one of the best home security tips we can give you is to make your windows more secure. While it’s important to have an alarm system which tells everyone if someone breaks in through your window, it’s better for your family’s safety if no-one can get in at all.

Consider getting extra locks on your windows, particularly if you have any on the ground CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN check if someone is present before breaking in: knocking on the door. If you’re looking for home security tips from a master burglar, this is a big one. In 2017, when Idaho-based TV station KTVB asked 86 burglars if they did this, every single one said yes. A video doorbell will let you know who’s outside your home, whether they’re a friend or foe, and give you the chance to talk to them as if you’re inside.

7. Make your garage door impenetrable You’re on your way to making your home into a fortress, having secured your windows and doors – but what about your garage? In terms of home security tips, it may sound simple, but it’s never a good idea to leave thieves with an opening. floor. Pin locks will stop burglars from lifting your windows, while keyed locks will present another obstacle for the intruder to get past.

You can also strengthen your windows by replacing the pane with tempered glass, which is four times stronger than regular glass, according to safety.com. It also crumbles instead of shattering, making it generally harder to penetrate. And if you

n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

want to protect certain windows more than most, consider buying plexiglass, which is 10 times stronger than normal glass. It’s more expensive, but also more durable. For your most high-risk windows, you could even consider polycarbonate windows, which are made from the same material as riot shields.

Make sure the main garage door and any side doors are made of a solid material, such as metal. Cover any windows, and consider installing a specific alarm for the garage. After all, vehicle-related thefts are more common than any other kind of household theft, and have been ever since government records began in England and Wales in 1981.

6. Get a video doorbell Many burglars will use a simple method to

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN 8. Store your most priceless valuables in a safe Protecting your home externally is crucial, and will stop most burglaries. But on the off-chance that a burglar is still able to get in and out before the police arrive to arrest them, you’ll want all your most precious items to be out of reach. A safe is the simple solution, giving you peace of mind that anything which you consider priceless will remain untouched. Safes can range from £30 to upwards of £29,000, so make sure to do some research before making a decision – but if you’re wondering how to improve home security, it’s all about making a safe bet.

9. Keep ladders and tools stored away The British government warns people not to leave anything lying around the outside of your home which could be used to break in. It’s a simple step, but one which can keep you from becoming a victim. This includes ladders, gardening tools, and even loose rocks – anything which could make access to your home easier.

10. Don’t let it appear like you’ve gone on holiday If you’re travelling this year, plan ahead so it isn’t obvious that your home is empty. If you

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

don’t manage to convince one of your friends or family to housesit, the next best option is making your place look like it’s occupied.

First, cancel any regular deliveries such as newspapers or milk, and consider not ordering anything (like clothes) to your home while you’re away. You can’t always control when people

your mail for up to 100 days, meaning you won’t have to worry about a burglar seeing a gigantic pile of mail outside your home and thinking: “Oh, they’re away. Guess I’ll steal everything.”

If you have a neighbour who can collect your mail for free (or for a small gift), then that’s even better. If they’re really nice, you could also ask them to park over your driveway, since seeing

send you mail, however, which is where Royal Mail Keepsafe comes in. This service will keep

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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HOME & GARDEN a car in front of your home will make a burglar

local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. The

think twice.

organisation told The Eco Experts that 2.3 million households across the UK are covered

Finally, hold back from making public posts

by the programme, which essentially involves

about your holiday on social media sites.

people looking out for each other. Protecting

Checking in at the airport on Facebook is a

everything important to you while making

sure-fire way to put your home and all your

the world a bit better? That’s a win-win.

belongings at risk. And remember: unless they’re locked, everyone can see your

How to improve home security

Instagram and Twitter profiles, too.

In summary, you can make your home safer for you and your family by making your entry

11. Secure your smart devices

points harder to access, giving burglars no

On that note, remember that home security

reason to think you’re away, and keeping your

isn’t just physical – it’s also electronic. Your

most precious belongings in the places which

savings, your identity, your car, and even your

are hardest to break into.

fridge could be under threat if you control them with smart technology.

Equipped with all of the home security tips above, take a look at your home from a

Make sure to get the latest security updates

an eye out in general, especially as you can

for all your devices, and keep up to date with

offer to do the same for them. You won’t be

whichever malware protection you use. When

home every minute of every day throughout

your laptop or phone wants to download

the year, so it’s important to ask for help

a system update, let it do so. Create a wifi

keeping your belongings safe. This doesn’t

network for guests who you don’t know well (like

mean slipping them a pair of binoculars and

And most importantly: lock your doors. You

tradespeople), and make sure that your smart

asking for them to set up a constant vigil – just

don’t need home security tips from a master

TV, fridge, and bin all have different passwords.

ask them to report anything suspicious.

burglar to figure that one out. n

12. Ask a neighbour for their assistance

13. Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme

Josh Jackman, Senior Writer

If you can ask a neighbour to help out while

If you want to feel even more secure,

The Eco Experts

you’re away, you can certainly ask them to keep

you

www.theecoexperts.co.uk

n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

could

do

worse

than

join

your

different perspective. Case the joint. Get into the mindset of any potential thieves, and see if your home has any weaknesses which they could exploit – then fix them.

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

More Hot Weather on the Way? Severn Trent and Welsh Water are urging us to think about how we use water.

Hot weather and the dry Spring and Summer places increased demands on water network which can impact supplies to customers. The water companies are calling on customers to help by using water sensibly and not wasting any. Where our water comes from has seen low rainfall in recent months with only 60% of long term average between March and May. This combined with the recent, extended amber weather warning for extreme heat in Worcestershire, the water companies are asking customers to be help them keep the water flowing by being mindful of how much they use. During the recent spell of warm weather, the company has already seen demand for water soar to near record levels.

This extra demand makes it a challenge to get water through the pipes fast enough and also drains the water quicker from the reservoirs and rivers that supply the water.

To help customers play their part and identify simple ways they can save water around the home and in the garden, the companies are offering handy hints and tips. These include: • Don’t leave the tap running while washing hands or brushing teeth • Take a shower instead of a bath. n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

• Wait until the washing machine and dishwasher are full before putting them on.

• Don’t fill the paddling pool to the top – and when you’ve finished, use the water on the plants in the garden.

• Don’t use a sprinkler on the lawn to keep it green – the colour will soon come back once it rains.

Businesses are also being asked to make an extra effort not to waste water, particularly caravan parks, golf courses and farms. Even making small reductions in the amount of water a business uses has the potential to make a big difference in helping to keep water flowing this summer, with the added benefit of reducing a business’ water bills and helping it protect the environment.

Ian Christie, Managing Director of Water, Asset Planning and Capital Delivery Services said: “Sometimes though the demand can cause problems on the network which is why we need to ask customers for their help so that we can make sure the water reaches everyone.

It’s also essential so that we can help preserve the supplies in our reservoirs and rivers after what has been a dry Spring and early Summer.

“Our advice is simple for customers, use the water you need but avoid wasting it.”

Minister for Climate Change Julie James said: “ Remember to switch the tap off when brushing your teeth, take showers instead of baths and reconsider your use of garden sprinklers and paddling pools. Our drinking water in Wales is world class, so whilst you are being asked to save water, please make sure you’re keeping hydrated as we stay cool in this sweltering heat.” Minister for Climate Change continued: “These measures may seem small but all actions we take will help keep our water flowing and minimise our impact on the environment”.

Rhodri

Williams,

Wales

Chair

of

the

Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said: “As temperatures soar so does our demand for water and that can put an extra strain on the network, which is why it’s important we all use water as wisely as we can.” “Our research shows that in the last six months two-thirds of us have not made an effort to use less water but there are lots of simple ways to save – whether that’s shaving a couple of minutes off our time in the shower or opting to use a watering can rather than a hosepipe. These simple changes can ease the pressure on the environment and save us money too.” n

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 19 n VIEW OUR FULL RANGE OF NEFF PRODUCTS AT WWW.CHAPMANSRETAIL.CO.UK

HOME & GARDEN

Your Chance to Help Change the World Worcestershire County Council is seeking keen individuals who would love to talk rubbish and help the residents of the county reduce their waste. a year and any reduction in this cost will help the Council save money and be able to provide better services elsewhere, so it’s so many people that will benefit just from that one talk, one social media post or chat at a school fete.

The Council’s Let’s Waste Less volunteer programme is looking for people who can spare time to help spread the waste reduction message; it could be via social media, working at events, doing talks or just writing articles for newsletters. Whatever your skill is, it will be gratefully received!

There are lots of groups working hard to create a more sustainable world, so why not join ours and learn new skills, make new friends and help shape the future for the next generation. n

With the emergence of the country out of the grips of COVID, there’s now lots of opportunities for volunteers to get involved.

You don’t need to be an expert. All you need is enthusiasm, an interest in the subject and the willingness to communicate the important messages about waste prevention to the residents of Worcestershire.

bins with the wrong materials, so if all you do is tell your family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues how to recycle correctly, that will be a massive contribution!

With the passing of the Environment Bill last year, the world of waste is moving quickly and is affecting everybody, so what a perfect time to learn all about it! One of the biggest problems is the contamination of recycling

Full, free training will be given on a variety of waste topics including composting, recycling, food waste reduction, reuse and repair and the support to develop your knowledge and skills.

Waste disposal in the county costs around £32m

n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

For an informal chat about the positive effects of volunteering please call Rob Whitehouse at Garden Organic on 07971 280985 or email RWhitehouse@gardenorganic.org.uk

HOME & GARDEN

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

House martin artifical nest © Jonathan Cartwright

Wild housemates

If you’re missing the feathered friends that call your home theirs for a few months each year, you’re not alone…

Arriving on holiday a couple of years ago, I was delighted when I spotted that we were sharing our cottage with

the chuckling chatter of house martins. There were several nests under the eaves and we watched fluffy faces appearing at the hole, eager to know when the parents would be back with more food. It was delightful to watch these birds grow up; I was only disappointed that we weren’t there long enough to watch them fledge.

Sadly, I see fewer house martins every year. These beautiful bluey-black birds with a white chest and white rump have seen a 57% decline in their numbers between 1969 and 2018. What’s gone wrong for this formerly widespread and familiar bird that many of us have enjoyed sharing our homes with…and is there anything we can do to help?

There are three main reasons but there are things that we can do to help. One of the reasons is that breeding success is lower than it once was. Recent studies show that newly built nests and those built on plastic soffits tend to produce only one brood (in ideal conditions, house martins can produce up to three broods in a year). Artificial nests or old ones that need a bit of maintenance help the birds to raise more broods.

KEEP UP TO DATE Worcestershire Wildlife Trust @WorcsWT t

When you consider that it takes at least 1000 beaks of mud per nest and that mud can be difficult to find, perhaps this is no surprise. Another major reason for

worcestershirewildlifetrust G

brood failure is the lack of insects to feed on. House

worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w

martins catch their insect prey as they fly but with

n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

huge decreases in our insect populations (41% of UK insect species face extinction), finding meals is becoming harder to do. Finally, these are birds that leave our shores in September, bound for warmer weather in Africa. Climate change and agricultural intensification along their migratory route, though, are making it harder to find food as they move from country to country.

It may sound bleak but there is hope. If we all do a little something, we can start to turn around the fortunes of house martins and other wildlife. If you own your house (or have an easy-to-persuade landlord), why not erect a couple of artificial nest boxes (or leave up the old nests) ready for next year’s breeding season?

House martins need insects on the wing so if you’ve got a garden, a patio, a balcony or even a window ledge, get planting. Whether it be nectar- or pollenrich flowers, leaving patches of long grass or allowing a small patch to go wild, our insects will thank you for it and, in turn, so will our feathered friends. Visit https:// www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/blog/seasonal-spot/ saving-our-high-fliers for lots of inspiration, ideas and a free book to download with more information.

We’re keen to know how our house martins are doing across Worcestershire so if you’ve got them nesting on your house or nearby, take a picture of their nest and send it to us via www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife-sightings n Wendy Carter Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

NATURE NOTEBOOK

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 23 n

GOLDEN YEARS

The Pros and Cons of Retirement Villages What are retirement villages?

So should I choose Retirement villages or

Retirement

sheltered housing: what is the difference?

villages

(or

At

retirement homes) are property

a

basic

level,

retirement

villages

developments built especially for older

and sheltered housing are similar. Both offer

people. They provide high-quality homes for

housing designed for older people who

those who wish to live independently in a safe

want to continue living independently. But

and comfortable environment. They usually

there can be significant differences between

offer a range of different accommodation

these housing options. Retirement villages

types, including houses, bungalows and

offer premium facilities in an attractive

apartments,

environment

and

are

often

located

in

promote a luxury lifestyle, offering a variety of leisure facilities, such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bars, plus the opportunity to enjoy social activities within a community of people of a similar age.

While the number of people living in these types of developments is relatively low in the UK, the market is growing steadily, and many

and,

as

a

consequence,

are usually more expensive than other

attractive settings. Most retirement villages more villages are expected to be built over the coming years. Properties in retirement developments are often considerably more expensive than homes on the open market.

Research by the real estate company Jones Lang LaSalle suggested that, on average, a retirement apartment in England cost around 17% more than a standard apartment of the same size in 2018.

options. They are generally aimed at people who want to enjoy an independent lifestyle; they may not be suited to people who require a higher level of support or supervision.

Although some developments do provide access to additional care and support – at an extra cost – so it’s worth investigating all the CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

Quality care you can trust in Worcestershire When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best - they want to know that the care home they choose will put their loved one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first.

Care

UK’s

Brook

Court,

Brook Court, Chandler Court and Perry

Chandler Court and Perry Manor

Manor care homes are part of award-

care homes in Worcestershire

winning provider, Care UK – one of the UK’s

provide residential, dementia and nursing

most successful care home operators* with

care, giving families peace of mind that their

over 40 years’ experience of delivering high

loved ones can stay living at the home should

quality care to older people. n

their needs change.

Brook Court care home Living at Brook Court, Chandler Court

37-38 Oldnall Road, Kidderminster DY10 3HN

and Perry Manor is all about quality of life.

kay.mayes@careuk.com

Every colleague in the home is passionate

Careuk.com/brook-court

about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling

0333 331 7657

lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and preferences. The lifestyle teams organise

Chandler Court care home

a huge variety of group and one-to-one

Recreation Road, Bromsgrove B61 8DT

activities, with plenty going on each day.

paul.chambers@careuk.com

With the extra support that Brook Court, Chandler Court and Perry Manor offer, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

Careuk.com/chandler-court Whether your loved one enjoys a quiet cup of tea in bed before starting the day, loves going for strolls in the landscaped grounds, or enjoys a chat over a beer, the team at Brook Court, Chandler Court and Perry Manor will spend time to enable them to continue living life the way they want to.

0333 331 7657 Perry Manor care home Charles Hastings Way, Worcester WR5 1ET careuk.com/perry-manor donna.townley@careuk.com 0333 331 7657

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 25 n

GOLDEN YEARS

options within retirement villages. Sheltered

So what are the upsides?

housing is often operated by local authorities,

• Freedom: The freedom to live

housing associations or charities, while

independently in your own home as you do

retirement village properties must be bought

at the moment.

or rented privately.

• Facilities: No need to go anywhere else for

So Do retirement villages offer care and support? The majority of properties in retirement

villages

are

designed

for

independent living, but some do provide care and support for those that need it. For example, some schemes include assisted living apartments. Others offer access to a service that can provide home help or personal care. provide

Most retirement villages

facilities

to

promote

general

health and fitness, including gyms, exercise classes, massage and physiotherapy. If you’re thinking about a retirement home, make sure that it offers the kinds of care and support you require, and think about future care needs if possible. If you’re moving into a scheme that offers a bespoke home care service, find out if you would be required to use the scheme’s own service should you need extra support in future – or if would

your leisure facilities.

• Staying together: Your new home could be suitable for couples as well as individuals.

• Making friends: Meeting new people outside of your current circle of friends and family.

• Enjoyment of communal areas - no responsibility to maintain gardens or facilities.

• No hassles with repairs or maintenance: These are usually dealt with by the scheme provider.

• Safety: Life in a retirement village may feel safer than living alone.

• Guest suites: Some villages have apartments available for friends and family to rent when they come to visit.

• Future care: Some offer access to home help and personal care services or even an on-site care home.

you be able to choose your care provider

What are the downsides?

if you wish?

• Limited medical care: Not all retirement

villages provide access to nursing or medical care.

• Cost: You pay more for luxury – homes in retirement communities are generally more expensive than properties on the open market.

• Private funding: Most retirement village properties must be bought or rented privately and are not eligible for public funding.

• Service charge: Most charge monthly or annual fees for maintenance and facilities.

All of the above pros are not free.

• Extra fees: There can be some unexpected costs, including exit or transfer fees when you sell.

• Reduced space: There may not be space for all of your current possessions and furniture. You may have to sell or give away things you love.

• Lack of diversity: Some people might not want to live solely with other older people.

Hidden costs of retirement homes Before deciding to move into a retirement village, make sure you’re clear about all of the costs and fees involved, as these can be significant.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 27 n

GOLDEN YEARS

Maintenance fees and service charges If you move into a retirement village you will be charged a regular service charge, which covers running costs and maintenance of the development. Typically these in 2020, range from £190 to £840 a month, depending on the operator, location and facilities on offer. You are nor exempt from council tax and utility bills, which are usually paid separately to the council/ utility companies.

Event fees Event fees are some of the most controversial charges included in retirement property contracts. Retirement properties are usually sold on a leasehold basis.

The lease often requires the owner to pay a fee for certain ‘events’, such as selling, sub-letting or transferring ownership of the property. These event fees (also known as exit fees or transfer fees) are additional charges built into the lease that you would not expect to encounter with a standard property. Don’t get caught out here – they vary between 1% to some resale fees at 30%!

Lease renewal If the lease has less than 80 years to run it will prove costly to renew and the property’s

value will also suffer. Check the length of the remaining lease is acceptable before buying, always taking into consideration the length of time you could possibly be living there before the time may come to sell.

Ground rent On a leasehold property, a tenancy is granted for a long period of time. It’s usual for leaseholders to pay a large amount upfront with smaller ‘ground rent’ payments to the freeholder annually. This may be as low as £50, but is usually around £300 to £500 a year.

Conditions of sale

when the owner dies or goes into full-time care), you will usually have a choice between using an estate agent or the operator’s own in-house sales service. Be aware that some freeholders make it a condition of sale that you must resell through their company, so check the terms before buying. Remember that the monthly service charge will usually need to be paid until the property is sold, so bills can mount up if a sale drags on.

Always use your own solicitor when purchasing a leasehold property. Then all of above charges will be pointed out to you in plain English. n

When reselling a retirement property (usually

ANSWERS

n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

GOLDEN YEARS

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 29 n

EDUCATION

Schools Options for the National Tutor Programme Narrow Schools will only be allowed to hire tutoring organisations pre-approved by the Department for Education under the National Tutoring Programme (NTP) from this September.

Guidance issued by the department in July revealed the change to funding conditions for the school-led tutoring route. The DfE announced earlier this year that £349 million in tutoring funding will be handed directly to schools from September to decide how to spend.

Up until now schools using the NTP through the school-led route were allowed to use any private tutoring organisation they wanted. In that the previous guidance only stipulated that leaders to use their “professional judgment” and checks providers could “meet the needs of their pupils”. But from September, using an external organisation to provide tutors will now be covered by the same rules as the tuition partners route.

Under this pathway, schools are only allowed to spend their funding on “quality assured” external organisations that are listed on the

n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

DfE’s new Find a Tuition Partner service.

When approached for comment by the professional teachers website – Schools Week, the DfE said schools could still hire external organisations, but only if they were on its list of accredited providers.

Ben Gadsby, head of policy and research at youth charity Impetus, welcomed the move, describing it as closing a “loophole that enabled potentially sub-standard tuition through the net”. He told Schools Week “But we need more high quality accredited tuition partners. The government should fund a capability building programme as part of the National Tutoring Programme, to support those organisations that fall short of the quality standards to improve their practice,” he added. “This will help ensure that every school has access to the high quality tuition their pupils need.” n

EDUCATION

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

Puzzles

SUDOKU - HARD

If you get stuck, the answers can be found on page 28

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WORD SEARCH Find and cross out all the listed words.

The words may go horizontally, vertically, diagonally, and backwards.

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3

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S

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F

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H

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N G N

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n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

R P

X O E

T M

Worcestershire

Now

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

Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900

rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727904

kate@pw-media.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 33 n

Great Days Out

AUGUST

and Jousting Knights; 9 – 11 August: Swords

The Commandery, Worcester. 10.30am –

£2.50 per child (includes all materials). No

12noon. Have fun at The Commandery every

need to book; usual admission to Hartlebury

week through the summer holidays! Knights

Castle applies.

Throughout the Summer Holidays

and Dragons; 16 – 18 August: Crowns and Catapults; 23 – 25 August: Jesters’ Hats. Crafts:

and Princesses: Tuesday to Thursday, 26 – 28 July and 16 – 18 August. Paint your shield,

Hoiday Fun

joust on hobbyhorses, play in castle tents, and

Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum.

quest through the garden. Dig for Dinosaurs:

Choose a character and costume, colour in a

Tuesday to Thursday, 2 – 4 and 23 – 25 August.

mask, and enjoy a fun interactive storytelling

Excavate a frozen mini dinosaur, dig for

session! Children are welcome to come

bones, see a volcano come to life, and have

dressed up if they would like or dress up

fun painting and colouring dinosaurs. Epic

on the day. The storytelling will be inspired

Explorers: Tuesday to Thursday, 9 – 11 August

by the work of Tolkien and other fantasy

and 30 August – 1 September. Delve into trays

worlds. Booking in advance is essential for

inspired by the Arctic and the desert, and

this workshop. Thursday 11 August – Illustrate

head off on a scavenger hunt! Turn yourself

your own Book Cover. Design your own book

into an explorer in a photo and colouring

cover inspired by the illustrators who have

activity. All sessions end with a story, drink and

who have designed covers for Tolkien’s books.

biscuit. Ages pre-school to 10. Children under

Thursday 18 August – Magical Model Making.

1 free with a paying sibling. Admission + £5

Thursday 25 August – Illustrate your own Book

per child. Limited spaces; booking essential.

Cover. Thursday 1 September – Interactive Storytelling.

Holiday Activities Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury

Tuesday & Thursdays

Castle. Come dressed up, follow a trail, and

Summer Fun: Castles, Dragons,

create crafts you can take home! 26 – 28

Knights and Princesses

July: Vibrant Vardos; 2 – 4 August: Castles

Hartlebury

n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

Castle,

Hartlebury

nr

Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY11 7XZ. Tuesdays to Thursdays through August. Come dressed up, follow a trail, and create crafts you can take home! 2 – 4 August: Castles and Jousting Knights, 9 – 11 August: Swords and Dragons, 16 – 18 August: Crowns and Catapults, 23 – 25 August: Jesters’ Hats or choose any theme you fancy!

Crafts: £2.50 per child (includes all materials).

No need to book; usual admission to Hartlebury Castle applies. Please visit hartleburycastle.com for admission information.

Every day (except Sundays or Bank Holidays) The Magic of Middle-Earth Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester is open: Monday to Saturday, 10.30am – 4.30pm. Visitors can step into The Magic of Middle-Earth at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum throughout the summer holidays and have fun with weekly workshops for families. Each Thursday, children’s imaginations can be ignited by model making, interactive storytelling, and book cover illustration – inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy realm – and get creative in a portrait-making session all about The Power of Portraiture exhibition. Sessions are £4 per child; CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

National Association of Goldsmiths Member

Quarter Jewellery(Worcester) and Malvern Goldsmiths

Getting married? §

We make wedding rings, all carats, all widths, all patterns.

We beat any other jewellers price, even the internet.

Personalise Your Wedding Ring 1. Choose a plain wedding ring (9ct, 18ct or platinum) 2. Keep it plain or have it diamond cut (any pattern) + £25 3. Set some bright white diamonds + £45 each (including setting) 4. Engrave dates or something lovey dovey on the inside + £20 (approx) Congratulations, you have just designed your very own Wedding Ring!

Plain Wedding Rings are £47.50 per gram for 9ct or £95 per gram for 18ct

Free valuations on items you wish to sell

We also value for insurance, sale between parties and probate.

Jewellery repair service available & we will polish your jewellery for £10

BUYING OR SELLING, STILL THE MOST REASONABLE JEWELLERS... ESPECIALLY FOR WEDDING RINGS.

27 The Shambles, Worcester 28/30 Belle Vue Terrace, Malvern

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 35 n

EDUCATION Great Days Out pay on the day except for interactive storytelling,

Saturday 6th

which requires advance booking. Refuel at the

Tenbury Countryside Show

brilliant café Little Al’s on the Balcony – enjoy

The Showground Tenbury Road Callow Hill

homemade food, delicious coffee and even

DY14 9DA. Nestled in meadows adjacent to the

shortbread inspired by the One Ring.

Victorian spa town of Tenbury Wells, Tenbury

Until Friday 26th

Countryside Show attracts 1000’s of visitors every year. Our one-day show is amongst the

Summer Multi Activity Weeks (8-15yrs)

U.K’s biggest; this said, in 2022, Tenbury Show

Aztec Adventure, Aztec Adventure Upton

still retains its rural charm and is deeply rooted

Warren, B61 7ER. These are week-long (5

in local Agricultural and Horticultural history.

day, Monday - Friday) activity courses suitable

A fantastic day out for visitors, competitors,

for ages 8 - 15yrs, start: 09:30 – finish: 16:00.

and exhibitors alike, Tenbury Show is home of

Instructor ratio 1:12. Multi activity courses may

the Hereford Cattle Society and the National

include a mixture of land and water activities

Association of Ryeland Sheep, showcasing

(which may be subject to change). Activities

some of the country’s finest Heritage breeds.

may include sailing, canoeing, kayaking,

From birds of prey, ferrets, horses, livestock,

raft building, climbing, archery, tunnels,

pigs, poultry and rabbits... it’s a real A-Z for

orienteering – activities are decided on the

animal lovers Tenbury Countryside Show is

day by the instructor. Maximum participant

located on the A456, close to Tenbury Wells,

weight limit 120kg or 18 stone per person. All

Worcestershire, WR15 8AR.

activity equipment and tuition are provided by our trained and DBS checked staff and

Until Sunday 7th

instructors. Please note: Our 1-day activity

Jurassic Farm 2022

course groups are run separately to the activity

Churchfields, Churchfields Farm, Salwarpe,

week course groups. Aztec Aqua Park activity

Droitwich, Something BIG is coming back to

is not included in the Multi Activity Week.

Churchfields... After the success of Jurassic

There will be a toilet available for use, there

Farm in 2021 it returns to Churchfields even

are changing rooms and showers available.

bigger and better than before! For nine

www.aztecadventure.co.uk/upton-warren/

ROARSOME days from July 30th to August

BUSFEST is world’s LARGEST INTERNATIONAL BUSFESTIVAL event for ALL owners, lovers, and enthusiasts of Volkswagen Transporter Vans.

We welcome Traders, Transporters, and enthusiasts from all over the world to a programme of events and entertainment for all ages.

7th, T-Rex, Triceratops and friends will escape their enclosure and take over the fun farm!

The Churchfields Jurassic Farm Experience includes: Real Dinosaurs – get up close and personal with these moving, breathing magnificent beasts (Watch out for their tails!)

Baby Dinosaur Nursery – friendly cute dinos popular with our youngest guests. Fossil Trail Map and Puzzle Sheet – Follow the jurassic clues through our woodland and orchard to discover the long lost Dinosaur Nest. Fossil Dig – dig and uncover real fossils. Caveman Games and Activities around the trail. Panning for Gold and Jurassic Gems. Fun Farm – Go wild in The Fun Farm and meet our animals plus race against the clock on our pedal go karts. Get Lost – make your way to our Maize Maze and try and find your way out!

Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th Battle of Evesham Festival and Battle Re-enactment Abbey Rd, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 1DF. A spectacular weekend of medieval mayhem in the heart of Evesham and next to the Avon, a riverside Market Town on the edge of the Cotswolds with a big part to play in history. Including four full-on battle

Worcestershire

Now

BUSFEST provides you with absolutely everything and anything you could possibly want or need to do with VW transporters for a whole weekend plus a whole lot more.

Our DISPLAYS & SHOW & SHINE (held on the SUNDAY) will feature some of the finest examples of VW Transporters in the world We can promise you an event that has the widest (and wildest) collection of TRANSPORTERS and largest selection of TRADERS & VEHICLE SALES of ANY VW event in the UK. ADVANCE BOOKING FOR CAMPING NOW OPEN £50 PER ADULT, £25 PER CAMPING UNIT. OPEN TO DAY VISITORS: 9am Saturday (£25 per adult), 9am Sunday (£20 per adult)

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team: Rachel Seabright

Kate Gilmartin

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

Tel: 01905 727904 Email: kate@pw-media.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 37 n

EDUCATION What's On re-enactments, Living History camp displays, trade stalls catering for medieval and modern tastes, beer tent and a Grand Parade through the streets of Evesham.

Monday 8th - Friday 19th MATILDA The Coach House Theatre has places on the Summer Holiday Drama Workshop and Production of in August 2022.Inviting young people to come and get involved in all aspects of production and performance, from lights and sound, to costume and makeup, marketing, stage management, dance and performance. This is a brilliant show filled with amazing songs and great characters in an action-packed story. Your summer just got really interesting… get in touch and book your place. Numbers are limited. ACT UP – a 2 week drama intensive workshop for children aged 11-18 years. Workshop: 8-19 August 10am-5pm Performances 17, 18, 19 August Course Fee £250 per person. Ring 01684 569011 to book.

Saturday 13th Summer Festival Fayre in the Cloister As part of the Worcester Festival, we will be hosting a Summer Festival Fayre in the Cathedral cloister from 10am - 4pm.

Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th Far Forest Countryside Show 2022 Fun packed show for all the family. Trade stands, Food and drink. Music. Arena Displays, kids zone and Art exhibition.

Sunday 14th Monthly Makers Market Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Worcester, WR2 4BS. Join us for our monthly makers market in the Barn and Yurt Marquee and buy directly from some lovely Worcestershire small businesses. Also Sunday 11th September All from 10am-3p Free entry for customers and no pre-booking required. Dog friendly and free parking.

Sunday 14th The Worcester Show We are really excited for our first visit to Worcester - to join the spectacular Worcester Show this summer. The popular event is coming back to the Pitchcroft Racecourse on Sunday 14th August (10.00am – 5.00pm).

There will be live bands; fair-style attractions; a have-a-go sports zone; judging of over 130 competitive creative classes; a dog competition; local food and drink – and much, much more! www.glitzyvintage.com n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022

Sunday 14th

Wednesday 17th - Sunday 21st

Ludlow Magnalonga A food and drink walk of circa 8 miles in the Ludlow countryside. A unique experience to try local food and explore the Ludlow landscape.

The walk (it’s leisurely and fun, not a race!) takes you up and down footpaths, tracks and quiet lanes through unspoilt countryside with fine views all around.There may well be stiles, steep hills and rough tracks to navigate!

And each year we explore a different route around Ludlow and the wonderful surrounding countryside. During your journey, you make several stops for refreshment. At each, of which, you will partake of a course of a meal based mostly on the local produce of Ludlow and across the Welsh Marches. Your food will be washed down with local real ale, or traditional local perry or cider, or other drink with a local connection. You will also be given some local bottled water.The Ludlow Magnalonga, now in its nineteenth year, is based on a similar and very successful event organised by our winemaking friends in Ludlow’s twin town of San Pietro in Cariano, near Verona in Italy – the home of Valpolicella. It is organised and ran by the Ludlow Marches Food & Drink Festival Team.We are sure you will enjoy this unusual day out – tickets must be bought in advance online, or by phone or post. DOGS. Please note – there may be a number of stiles to cross, not all of which are easily accessible for larger dogs, and some narrow pathways. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. Please keep this in mind if you are planning to bring your dog on the Magnalonga.

PLaY Festival 2022 Hopton Court, Cleobury Mortimer, Kidderminster, DY14 0EF. PLaY Festival is back! Have you missed your circus friends?

Hanging out in fields and PLaYing? Well miss it no more! Come back to hang with your best circus friends, the best shows, attend workshops, listen to live music plus DJs, chill out and relax over 5 days of festival loveliness (plus additional camping before and after!). We will be returning to the beautiful Hopton Court our home since 2017. play-festival.co.uk

Lakefest UK Eastnor Castle, Deer Park, Ledbury. Set in the sublimely picturesque Eastnor Castle Deer Park in Hereford, LakeFest prides itself on creating a hugely enjoyable, family friendly festival where music, entertainment, family activities, fairground rides and creativity collide to produce an unmeasured Festival that will capture with hearts and minds of attendees, regardless of age. With an array of stages including the ever-popular Mainstage we aim to provide a plethora of music that means regardless of musical tastes there will be something for everyone. Based on the ethos of being “all inclusive and family friendly” there is a whole program of activities, music and entertainment set in the secure confines of a stunning natural valley, which is overlooked by the exquisite Eastnor Castle.

Whether a festival ‘virgin’ or ‘pro’ Lakefest will deliver a truly unforgettable festival experience what you’ll want to rediscover year after year. See you in the field

Hereford River Carnival 2022 Bishops Meadow, King George V Playing Feilds,Hereford, Hereford. We’re back! And we’re so excited to bring you Hereford’s largest free community event once again. Following the virtual Carnival in 2020, this will be the first full scale event since 2018 and will see Castle Green, Bishops Meadow, King George V Playing Fields, and all along the riverbank will be bubbling with excitement. Water is at the heart of this year’s Make Waves theme in a celebration of the river and the sea. There will be more floats, boats, and watery fun than ever with a whole host of surprises in store. We will launch at dusk on Friday 26th August with a spectacular live performance along and on the river. Saturday is carnival day and will be ‘a day at the seaside’ as we create Hereford-on-Sea. The legendary carnival procession will flood the streets with people and bring everyone to the river to watch the river procession. Make Waves and bring the seaside to Hereford this August bank holiday. www.rivercarnival.org

Friday 26th Chapterhouse Theatre Company Presents Cinderella Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury nr Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY11 7XZ. Please bring your own picnic blankets or lowbacked seating. In an enchanted kingdom in a faraway land magical creatures and fairy godmothers come together to tell the best loved of all fairytales. Full of song, mirth, and joy for the summer ahead, join us on Cinderella’s journey of a lifetime to a magical ball where nearly anything is possible especially if it is before midnight. Family and friends are welcome to picnic in the grounds in some of the most beautiful gardens in the UK and Ireland and children old and young alike are invited to dress in their favourite fairy tale characters and join for the midsummer ball dance. Gates open: 6.00pm Show begins: 7.00pm.

Friday 26th & Saturday 27th

On until 4 September 2022 Black Country Beats celebrates the diverse musical genres that emerged from the Black Country between the 1970s and 2000s.

GLAZE The new eating space at Wolverhampton Art Gallery – A new eating space and a new menu featuring everything from a Full English Breakfast, Porridge, Homemade soup of the day, a variety of sandwiches and jacket potatoes (both with different fillings), to our favourite coffees, new loose leaf teas and delicious handmade cakes. Whatever time of day your visit there’s certain to be a treat to tempt you.

Special occasion? We also offer Afternoon Tea.

POP TRACKS On until 29 August - Running alongside our music-themed exhibition Black Country Beats and coinciding with the 2022 Commonwealth Games, which takes place in the Midlands this summer, Pop Tracks showcases pieces from Wolverhampton Art Gallery’s Pop Art collection that explore music and sport.

For more information on events and activities taking place at Wolverhampton Art Gallery visit www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n

n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 220 | August 2022