Worcestershire Now DEC 2016/JAN 2017

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

DECEMBER 2016 i january 2017

issue 162

love your retirement

with inspired villages see page fifty for more information

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

CONTENTS WORCESTERSHIRE Now 2nd Floor, Richardson House, 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP Tel: 01905 723011 www.pw-media.co.uk

ADVERTISE

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk Michele Ford Tel: 01905 727902 michele@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth Amy Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS

Wendy Carter Glynis Dray Age UK House of Colour Malvern Theatres The Garden Store The National Trust Worcestershire CC

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Make a Move for the Better?

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COMPETITION WINNERS 7 Day Meal Pack from Checketts Fine Foods E. Lock, Worcester

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Winter Wildlife Watching with The Wildlife Trust

Getaway Break for two at Corse Lawn House P, Bishop, Newent 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.

real or life¯ like tree?

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

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Festive Winter Wonders

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CONTENTS

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38

pan fried swordfish

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Win an overnight stay for two at The Cottage in the Wood

DEC 2016 i jan 2017

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ISSUE 162

48

Preparing for Winter

music at severn arts

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

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A very british christmas?

56 4

`Capability’ Brown at Croome

Christmas in Malvern

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homestyle

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

make a move for the better?

If you’ve fallen out of love with where you’re living then you have to decide whether to "do up" or "sell up".

N

ot enough bedrooms for your growing family? Empty nest? The layout not working for you and your children? Or maybe you’re

just sick of the avocado bath suite?

The house that was once your dream home can quickly start to look more like a nightmare. So is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

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homestyle

To help you choose between doing

diner. Plus, any money you spend

mess and major changes like a loft

up and selling up we’ve taken a look

on improvements can add to your

renovation or extension can lead to

at the good, the bad and the ugly of

property’s value in the long term. Just

chaos for months. If you do any work

both options.

remember to be aware of your area’s

in your kitchen you may become well

ceiling price - the maximum amount

acquainted with the local takeaway if

Improving

a similar house has sold for in your

The good: You can put your own

area.

stamp on your home AND add value.

Renovating your home allows you to put your own stamp on it and make sure the space really works for you and your family. You can think about exactly what it is you need, and make changes you know will make your life easier, whether that’s an updated

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The bad: There's some things you just can't change. Sadly you can’t pick up your house and move it so if there are things you don’t like about your neighbourhood or location - such as poor schools or a long commute – you’ll still be stuck with them.

your cooker is out of action.

Moving The good: You get a bright, shiny new home. You may be able to find the perfect property at the right price in the right location. If you can afford it, you'll be able to buy somewhere bigger, without the chaos of builders and the accompanying brick dust.

kitchen, creating an extra room in

The

the

You could find something ready to

the loft or knocking down a wall

destruction. Even seemingly simple

move into with a layout and set up

to create a family-friendly kitchen-

renovations can cause a lot of

that suits your household's needs

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

ugly:

Coping

with

>>

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homestyle

better. You could end up with more

into the long term value of your

the for sale sign in the front lawn

space, a bigger garden in a better

home. Stamp duty adds up to £2,500

or get the builders in you need to

area. If you are downsizing then you

for a home worth £250,000 and

think carefully about what it is you

can release capital or even reach the

the more expensive home you buy

are looking for from your home and

nirvana point of having paid off the

the more you'll pay. Typical estate

how much money you can afford to

agent fees can be anything between

spend.

mortgage.

The bad: You may still have to do some work. How many houses have you seen on the market, in your price range, that you’d be happy to keep exactly as they are? You could move and still find yourself with work to do, whether it’s just giving some rooms a

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0.75% and 3.5% of the selling price and run into thousands. Plus there are solicitors’ fees and even the price of hiring a van to consider. On downsizing the current figure for your new property not attracting Stamp Duty is only £125,000 so most

lick of paint or bigger jobs like fitting

new retirement properties will need

a new kitchen.

the tax budgeting for.

The ugly: The costs of moving soon

The verdict?

add up and the money doesn’t go

It’s a tough one. Before you bang

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Still stuck? It’s also worth asking the experts. Get quotes from local tradesmen and the planning office to see what improvements are realistic and ask your local estate agent to send you details of houses that meet your requirements. Good luck and a great New Year whether moving or staying.

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homestyle

TWELVE perfect handmade gifts Spread some Christmas cheer with these lovely handmade gift ideas.

1. Biscuits and cookies

Christmas gifts to give. Use very strong adhesive to

Home baked biscuits or cookies make such a lovely

stick cinnamon sticks around a glass jar. Add a tea light

gift. Wrap in cellophane bags and add pretty ribbon

or candle to make a lovely and beautifully scented

and a gift tag to complete the gift.

homemade Christmas gift.

2. Jams and chutney

5. Salt and sugar scrubs

Another foodie gift is making your own jams, curds,

Salt and sugar scrubs are so easy to make and they look

pickles or chutneys. Sterilise old jars in the dishwasher

and smell divine. You can make salt scrubs with sea salt

and then cook up a batch of jams or chutneys. Add

and sugar scrubs using brown sugar. Simply almost

a circle of fabric to the jar lid and a pretty gift tag to

fill the container with your chosen fragrance such as

complete your gift.

coconut etc the spoon in the salt/sugar slowly until filled.

3. Lavender bags

your skin so soft and clean and are a real luxury in a jar.

Sew little squares of pretty fabric together and fill with

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Add a few drops of essential oils. Cap & label. They make

lavender for a lovely gift. Add lace or ribbon to embellish.

6. Bath salts

4. Cinnamon stick candle

pretty jar and decorate with lace or hessian. It smells

Simple to make but one of the loveliest handmade

divine and makes for a really relaxing bath.

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Add dried lavender or rose petals to sea salt. Pop in a

>>

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WINTER

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Moonrise Colección

Elara Floor Lamps

by

Brooke by Collins & Hayes

Jonathan Macmillan

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Stressless New Signature Base Chair

Delta Dining Table

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homestyle

7. Handmade soaps

you allow the stronger the brandy taste - I leave mine for a

Make your own soap. Add pretty additions to make it look

month! Strain the cherries and reserve the brandy. Melt the

and smell great. You can make loads of bars from one

chocolate in a medium sized bowl. Dip the cherries, one at

batch and wrap with twine, lace or vintage fabric to make

a time using a cocktail stick into the chocolate to coat. Place

gorgeous-looking presents. You can melt commercial

coated cherries on a plate, spaced out so they dont stick to

soap or buy it in kit form from Hobbycraft etc.

each other and put in the fridge until the chocolate has set

8. Bath bombs Making your own deliciously scented fizzing bath bombs is easier than you think and they make lovely gifts. To make add together 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup citric acid (powder) and ½ cup of Epsom salts add in the liquid ingredients, 1 tsp. water, 2 tsp. essential oil, 3 tsp. olive oil, food colouring.

Shape and fill a bath bomb mould, packing it quickly before the mixture has time to dry out. You can use muffins trays etc if you don’t want to buy a special mould.

9. Flavoured Vodka or Gin The quickest fruit to make this with is raspberries. Try this for Christmas: 300g of raspberries, 330g of white granulated sugar & 1.5 litres gin. Wash raspberries and discard any bruised fruit. Place rasberries in a large 2 litre jar. Add the sugar and top up with gin to the rim.

Shake every day until the sugar is dissolved and then store in a cool, dark place. Best after 3 months. Give in small pretty bottles, decorate with labels and bows.

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hard. Store in a plastic box in a cool place (or the fridge).

11. Truffles 3oz Plain Chocolate, 3oz Ground Almonds, 3oz Caster Sugar, 2 Tablespoons Brandy - from the cherries, Chocolate Vermicelli or Cocoa Powder to coat. Put the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix well. Add melted chocolate and brandy, mix well. Roll small amounts (about a teaspoon full) into balls and roll in the vermicelli or cocoa. Refrigerate on plates until firm. Store in a cool, dry place.

12 It’s a Cracker!

1. Take an A4 peice of paper and lay one of your cardboard tubes in the middle. If you are using cracker snaps, feed it through the tube, and then tape at either end to secure in place.

2. Lay a cardboard tube either side of the central one, and roll your paper around the tubes. Secure with glue or sticky tape.

3. Pull one of the tubes out by about 5-10cm and give the end a twist to scrunch the paper slightly. Remove

10. Brandy Cherries

the tube entirely and then use the scrunched paper as

Use Glacé Cherries (or stoned frozen ones), Brandy, Plain

a guide to where to tie your ribbon.

Chocolate (dark works best). Put the cherries in a screw

4. Slide the gift/joke/hat through the tube at the other end.

topped jar and pour the brandy in, fill to at least half way up.

5. Repeat the tieing process for the other end and

Store for at least a week and shake the jar daily. The longer

you're done!

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

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homestyle

Real or life-like

christmas tree There are a couple of questions in the garden centre that we can really struggle to answer…

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as or Charcoal BBQ – which is best? They’re

tables on which were placed two trees hung with

both great and have their fans and merits.

lights and sugar ornaments with all the presents

Real or Life Like Christmas Tree? This is the

being placed round the trees”. No tricky choices to

other question and just as tricky to answer!

make in her household!

At the age of 13, Queen Victoria wrote about Christmas

So which is best? Well they both have their merits

trees in her 1832 diary “After dinner... we then went

and whilst we sell far more real trees than Life Like

into the drawing-room... There were two large round

we certainly wouldn’t ever be without these incredible

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

Business Storage • Household Storage • Archive Storage Pick and Pack Service • Next Day Parcel Service Packing Materials • Van Hire • Student Summer Storage

50p VAN HIRE FOR NEW STORAGE CUSTOMERS Please contact for more details.

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homestyle

trees as they are becoming more and more popular. The Life Like trees really do live up to their name. Nowadays there’s a mix of materials used on the trees that creates a multi-tone effect, and of course the needles don’t drop! Choosing a real

as possible to help needle retention. When you bring it inside cut 5cm (2”) off the bottom of the

tree is, for some, a great part of the Christmas tradition and this

tree to improve water uptake. When inside, keep

tradition has now extended indoors to the Life Likes; customers

it away from heat sources and use a stand with a

have been known to spend an hour or more walking round the

good size water reservoir that allows you to water

display picking out the perfect tree.

it regularly. When you choose your tree, real or

Decorating a real tree can, sometimes, be quite tricky as the

size – too tall and you’ll be squashing it against

branches have a habit of being the wrong distance apart or not

the ceiling, too wide and it’ll dominate the room.

rigid enough to support some of the more elaborate and heavier

Close branched or spaced – if you love decorating

Life Like, think about several things... Shape and

decorations. A well-dressed Life Like tree really can look like the real thing and of course once purchased they last for years.

So which is best? Sorry, only you can decide!

BY THE GARDEN STORE www.gardenstoreonline.co.uk

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THE GARDEN STORE TIPS

B Keep your real Christmas tree outside for as long

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

then well-spaced branches are better for you as it allows room for the decorations to shine.

B Always put the lights on before the decorations and thread them in and out of the tree as well as round and round. This creates a sense of depth and throws light throughout the tree.

Andrew Alexander Outdoors

Three Times RHS Winner Stunning gardens and stone patios from design through to completion Full standalone garden design service also available Covering a 30 mile radius of Worcester Tel: 01568 613781 | Mob: 07968 371828 Email: aaoutdoors@live.co.uk Andrew Alexander Outdoors - Extensive gallery of photos available

Garages - Carports - Stables & Field Shelters Garden Rooms & Home Offices - Log Stores

TELEPHONE: 01299 403231 - 07743 046 664

www.severnstructures.co.uk

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homestyle

HELP! DIGITAL TAX IS COMING! You may be thinking towards the not too distant Tax Return deadline of January 31st. Also, do you know about the new Digital Tax Legislation? Martin Nicholas of TaxAssist Accountants, Worcester, explains the details.

Implications of Digital Tax?

How we can help you

By April 2018, all business, including Sole Traders and Landlords,

TaxAssist work in partnership with QuickBooks to offer solutions

will be required to update HMRC at least quarterly, where it is

for your business. I am fully trained as a ‘pro-adviser’ for

their main source of income (or it generates a secondary source

QuickBooks Online and so can help you to get set up and provide

of income above £10,000.)

ongoing advice. Because we have access to your cloud software, we can also look in on how things are going and help you.

Under the banner ‘Making Tax Digital’ the Government has described Digital Tax as an ‘online bank account’ enabling taxpayers and businesses to see all of the information that HMRC is holding for them and to interact with HMRC remotely.

If you prefer, TaxAssist can look after your books in full via QuickBooks Online. All you would need to do would be raise your invoices on QuickBooks, photograph and record your expenses on your Phone App and load your bank transactions into QuickBooks each month; we can do the rest.

Key Benefits:

B Support from your Accountant B Progress on the move via the Phone App B Huge time-savings B Up-to-the-minute reporting information B User Friendly B Automated transactions straight into your books Another advantage of being up-to-date is being able to file your Tax Return early. You will receive tax owed to you much faster, whereas any tax payable will not be bought forward.

TaxAssist Services: Business Accounts & Taxation; Self Assessment; Bookkeeping and VAT Returns; Payroll Services; Company Formations and Business Plans.

Steps to Take Now We are already in a digital world with software solutions available, often in conjunction with your accountant, in order to manage

At TaxAssist we provide an efficient service, freeing up your time, enabling you to focus on business matters. You can spread the cost of our services via a fixed monthly payment. If you are

the financial affairs of businesses and individuals. Software such

interested in talking further about how QuickBooks Online can

as QuickBooks Online will enable storage of information ‘in the

prepare you for Digital Taxation, or any of our services, please

cloud’ which can be shared and managed by your accountant.

contact me for a free consultation.

Standard functions include:

B Customisable Invoices: Design your layout & include your logo B A Mobile App: Raise invoices or photograph receipts on your phone

B Load your bank transactions straight into your QuickBooks Online Accounts

B Automated control of Income and Expenditure Online software is a stepping stone towards preparing in advance and for Digital Taxation.

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Martin Nicholas, Proprietor TaxAssist Accountants (Worcester) 1 Tannery Mews, Carden Street, Worcester WR1 2AT Tel: 01905 382020

Mobile: 07498 325225

Email: martinnicholas@taxassist.co.uk Website: www.taxassist.co.uk/worcester

Tiddesley Wood near Pershore

Log & Wood Chip Sales

Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th December 2016 Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th January 2017 Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th February 2017 Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th March 2017 Sales 10am - 1pm each day Sold in aid of wildlife conservation

Logs £4.80 a bag Loaded loose into trailers, car boots, etc base price £95/cu.m.

Any amount, big or small Chips if available £3 a bag quantity discount and for loose.

To find the sale follow main road out of Pershore towards Worcester. Turn left at top of Allesborough Hill following signposts to Besford & Croome.

After about 500 yards look for signs. WR10 2AD will get you near for those with SATNAVs.

See www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk and www.tiddesley.org.uk

n Innovative Design

Worcester Wildlife Trust, Lower Smite Farm, Smite Hill, Hindlip, Worcester, WR3 8SZ. Tel: 01905 754919 Charity No. 256618 Company No. 929644

n Competitive Pricing n 35 Years Experience n 3D CAD Design Service n No Salesmen, Run by Tradesmen Only n Please Check Customer Comments on Our Website

25 year Guarantee on kitchen units & installation work T: 01905 354034 M: 07791 661 347 E: chris@crgkitchens.co.uk

www.crgkitchens.co.uk

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COMPETITION

WIN a Mary Ann Rogers signed Limited edition print Your chance to win an outstanding limited edition signed print by Mary Ann Rogers, one of the UK's most popular wildlife artists.

D

iscover original watercolour paintings, limited edition

printing and the production of cards and gifts, which are all

print, cards and gifts featuring birds, wildlife, farm and

produced or finished in the North east of England.

exotic animals as well as the hills and valleys of her native Northumberland.

The stunning ‘Three Over’ Print measure 66cms x 43cms depicts a group of Happy Hounds with a value of £230. ‘On Guard’ print measure 54cm x 27cm and depicts a Proud Cockerel ‘On Guard’ with a value of £180.

"The quick and lively work of Mary Ann Rogers is a real treat... her animals are depicted with a spine-tingling and inspiring virtuosity... she achieves a sense of oriental delicacy of touch which defies description." - The Scotsman She also offers beautifully designed products, using some of her

Mary Ann Rogers received the award for "Best-selling published

most loved designs and recent paintings. These include fun and

artist 2009" from The Fine Art Trade Guild - the latest in a

quirky products which would be ideal Christmas gifts. Calendars

line including Jack Vettriano, David Shepherd, Beryl Cook and

and diaries to keep you organised in 2017, brighten up your

Mackenzie Thorpe.

wardrobe with a cheerful country scarf or style your iPhone, iPad

Mary Ann Rogers’ paintings and prints are exhibited in her own

or Kindle with one of Mary Ann’s device cases.

stunning new gallery at her home, also widely throughout the UK.

Browse Mary Ann’s website:

Unusually, Mary Ann Rogers publishes her own work, overseeing

www.marogers.com or contact

every aspect both of the traditional offset lithographic fine art

the artist directly on 01434 270216

Competition

Answer:

Ann Rogers (please specify your preference below), simply fill out the

Name:

For your chance to win a limited edition print signed by the artist Mary entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

In what year did Mary Ann Rogers receive the award for "Best-selling published artist?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Mary Ann Rogers WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 19th January 2017.

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now 'Three Over' december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

'On Guard'

Address: Tel: Email: If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Glendale PR please tick this box

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23

homestyle

How to use colour psychology

when decorating your home Do you ever wonder why you feel immediately relaxed when you enter a spa, yet when you enter a gym, you feel alert and energized? The answer can be found in the colours selected to decorate the space.

I

nterior designers use colour psychology to evoke an emotional response, Homeowners can employ this strategy to connect colours with emotions and memories to create one-of-a-kind spaces.

Colour psychology starts by exploring warm and cool hues and then using these different tones to manipulate mood throughout your home. It's easy to do with the tips below.

Warm colour families Red, orange and yellow are considered warm colours since they are associated with images of heat, like fire or sunshine.

Warm families of colour are bold and powerful when incorporated into home design.

Yellow: Because yellow reflects light, it's an excellent choice for foyers and dark hallways. Its cheery nature has the ability to create an uplifting mood in homes. Rich yellows are great accent colours because they catch the eye.

Many shades of yellow feature an acidic, deep mustard feel but are a great accent colour when paired with neutrals and it can really spark up a room.

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

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homestyle

Red: Reds evoke feelings of passion, energy and

Blue: Blue is soothing and elicits feelings of relaxation,

intimacy, so it's an excellent colour for workout rooms

which is perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms.

and master bedrooms. Red also inspires the appetite,

Alternatively, blues should be kept out of the kitchen

so is a logical choice for dining rooms or kitchens.

because it's a colour that's associated with appetite

A bright red is excellent to play off against dark stains

suppression.

with its saturated and sophisticated nature. A rich

Green: Green tones provide a feeling of familiarity

hue similar to that used in Chinese culture, where

because they are found throughout nature. Light

the colour red is known as the harbinger of joy and

greens are ideal for living rooms and offices; dark

fortune, makes any room stand out and instantly feel

greens are wonderfully rich as accent colours.

warmer regardless of what the weather is doing.

A dark green can also make a great front door colour Orange: Orange has a friendly attitude that awakens

on a white or grey coloured houseand paris well with

and welcomes. Never understated, orange works well

some natural stone or brick or wood.

in family rooms and is a playful choice for children's bedrooms or bonus rooms, also, orange tones are

Violet: Purple tones are immediately attractive

much easier to integrate into other colours.

to children, making them a great paint option in

Cool colour families Blue, green and violet are considered cool colours

a stunning accent colour in bathrooms.

because the inherent tones of each shade. Reminiscent

A rich, berry tone can make a really dramatic accent

of water and the outdoors, cool colours stimulate

wall colour in any room or even a really fresh front

feelings of peace and tranquillity, and are great options

door colour.

for bedrooms, bathrooms and patio spaces.

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playrooms or bonus rooms. Additionally, violet is also

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

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27

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Long-tailed Tit © Mark Roberts (taken from our 2017 calendar)

winter wildlife watching I’ve always loved winter; I love wrapping up and heading outside on a bright frosty day – with a chill in the air and the excuse for a warming drink at any given opportunity. I love the buzz of summer wildlife but I enjoy how the starkness of winter can make wildlife easier to spot as I walk through the landscape.

W

ith no leaves on the trees, it’s much

and can be incredibly beautiful - from the fairy seats of

easier to find long-tailed tits working their

the fly agaric to the alien-looking earthstars. Woodlands

way through the branches, looking for

are a good starting place but local churchyards are also

small insects to eat. These tiny bundles

worth a visit.

of feathers spend winter travelling around with family and friends; there’s safety in numbers and on cold winter nights they snuggle up together to keep warm.

Trees that are laden with berries can be great too, with blackbirds or other thrushes rapidly gobbling them down. Of course, putting out food out in the garden means we don’t have to go far to spot wildlife.

Wherever or however you wildlife watch, try to make sure you’ve got a camera. Our annual photo competition is open for entries until 10th April 2017 (entry forms from our website). You don’t need the best camera in the world nor do you need to capture the rarest wildlife. From bees to wildflowers and gardens to nature reserves, we’re looking for the special creatures and

It’s not just birds that are easier to find. Look into a

wild places that you find.

pile of leaves and you’ll probably discover a miniature world – lots of minibeasts from springtails to spiders

Winning photos will feature in our 2018 calendar and

take shelter in this relative warmth. If there are crispy

sales raise money for our conservation work across the

leaves about, I listen for small mammals like shrews and

county. 2016 calendars, Christmas cards and virtual

voles rustling through them looking for a bite to eat. If

gifts are available from our offices at Lower Smite Farm

you’ve got a log pile in your garden, why not gently take

and

a look...last year, I lifted up a log to find three hornet

photography-competition

queens sleeping peacefully in a small hollow. As with bumblebees, it’s only the queens that make it through

our

website:

www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/

Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

the winter – they’re this summer’s offspring that have already mated, ready to start new nests next spring.

Not all queens survive hibernation - some are lost to fungal infections whereas others are found and eaten!

If we get some rain, why not take yourself on a fungi foray? You don’t need to be able to identify them or even pick them, just take a closer look. Fungi are so variable

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

MORE INFORMATION Keep up to date with us...

• on Twitter @WorcsWT • on Facebook worcestershirewildlifetrust • our events www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

29

BEAUTIFUL

FESTIVE WINTER WONDERS The festive season is just around the corner. Here are a selection of products that are perfect for your Christmas celebrations or as an ideal gift for yourself, friends or family.

MAC

ELEMIS

Radiant skin in a flash, no

Online Exclusive Sweet Orchid Bath &

matter what the lighting

Body Stocking Filler. Hydrates, soothes and

conditions. M·A·C introduces

moisturises. Indulge your body and mind with

extended shades of strobe

the divine scent of orchids, and formulations

cream. Super-powered with

which soften and hydrate the skin.

potent botanicals, antioxidants and iridescent pearl particles, strobe cream de-stresses, desnoozes, hydrates, freshens and boosts the look of dull, tired-looking skin.

£24.50

30

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

£12.00

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY A luxurious cleansing balm rich in nourishing botanical oils to gently purify the skin whilst nurturing its delicate barrier function.

Includes a 100% cotton muslin cloth to help wipe away impurities.

£30.00

CHANEL

CLARINS

SHAVATA

A mascara that focuses

Festive Make-Up Palette with mineral and plant

Shavata’s Brow

on the essential. Length,

extracts. A sleek eco-designed palette with the

Strengthener is great if

curl, definition, volume

choice of 10 long-lasting eyeshadow shades.

you have over plucked

and care: it provides

The harmonious collection of wearable shades

your eyebrows: it will

just enough coverage to

includes six satin finishes, three matte finishes

stimulate the growth of

intensify the expression of

and one iridescent shade that deliver intense,

hair, nourish and thicken

the eyes and reveal their

luminous results. Create any make-up look this

eyebrows at the same

every dimension.

festive season, from classic chic to smokey sultry.

time. The product comes

£25.00

£35.00

in a tube with a roller ball applicator allowing easy absorption into the skin through massage.

£18.00 @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

Stockist Details: MAC - 0870 034 2676 - www.maccosmetics.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www. timetospa.co.uk. Elemental Herbology - www.elementalherbology.com.Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Shavata - www.shavata.co.uk.

beautiful

31

BEAUTiful

the office christmas party That combination of colleagues, cocktails, end-of-year stress, your boss… and camera phones. Is there a work event more fraught with peril? Relax, we’re about to make things a little easier for you. Here’s our handy guide on what to wear to a work party – the `’dos’, the `don’ts’ and the `absolutely-avoid-at-all-costs’.

Do... remember you’re still at work

Lace can come to your rescue here. It’s a great way

This isn’t like other Christmas parties. You’re not

to look elegantly gorgeous while maintaining a

letting loose with friends or family and regardless of

professional image. And even better, lace is bang on

how much you enjoy yourself, it’s important to think

trend at the moment.

beyond the event. The image you present to your work colleagues will stick with them, and you don’t

Do... be consistent.

want to be the subject of whispered water-cooler

It’s really easy to sabotage your professional credibility

conversations for the next 6 months. So how do you

by wearing something that’s wildly inconsistent with

tread that fine line between "I’m attractive and

your everyday work look. Understated elegance will

sexy" and "Take me seriously, I’m a professional"?

always beat the wacky or the risqué when it comes to work parties.

Don’t... reveal too much flesh.

You know that old adage about showing off either

Remember, someone is bound to take a photograph.

cleavage or legs, not both? It’s a good one to bear

If in doubt, go for an outfit that you’re happy to have

in mind when choosing a party outfit for your work

shared on social media for your boss to see, and your

do. It may sound unfair, but the amount of skin you

future boss, and the boss after that…

reveal is in inverse proportion to the amount of authority you’ll project.

32

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Consistency is key. As a general rule, think about what you’d normally wear to work but with added sparkle

>>

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33

BEAUTiful

and glamour. The easiest way to glam up a daytime work

A hint of bronzer on the collar bones or shoulders is a great

outfit is to accessorise - especially handy if your Christmas

way to add subtle illumination – a bit of glitz and subtle

party is immediately after work because the new look can fit

sparkle without exposing too much flesh.

neatly into your handbag or briefcase.

For example, with a slightly higher heel or elegant stilettos you can quickly transform a work suit into a stunning evening look.

And let’s face it, an amazing pair of statement earrings will have far more impact than a pair of flashing Christmas trees.

Don’t... go overboard with the make-up A recent Harvard study has revealed that make-up sends a strong signal about your perceived authority. In short, you’ll

You’ll probably need to refresh your make-up during the party, so pop a mineral foundation into your compact and load up a retractable lip brush with your favourite lipstick.

That way, they’re ready to whip out when you’re feeling a bit sweaty (sorry, glowing a bit too much).

In the end, there’s nothing wrong with being yourself at your Christmas work do. But be yourself within reason. Have

appear competent and in control when you wear a moderate

fun, let loose, enjoy the party – and look your fabulously

amount of make-up. However, if you go overboard with the

confident, professional best.

glam look, your perceived trustworthiness diminishes.

Again, this is a bit depressing. Evidently, books are still judged by their covers, but it’s worth knowing – and it means choosing your work party make-up strategically.

MORE INFORMATION Colour Analysts & Personal Style Consultants

Go for subtly alluring eyes teamed up with your best red lipstick. You’ll exude confidence without looking overly made up.

jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk charlotte.scriven@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

if you would like to advertise in the next issue please contact one of our sales team Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk

34

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

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

Luxury Lingerie, Swimwear & Nightwear Maternity, Bridal, Sports & Teens Mastectomy specialists 19 BROAD STREET PERSHORE 19 BROAD STREET

PERSHORE

lovely clothes at reasonable prices

Cups AA to K Miraclesuit Shapewear now in stock 23 Reindeer Court, Worcester

Tel: 01905 619031

www.embraceluxurylingerie.co.uk www.embracecancerbeauty.co.uk @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

35

BEAUTiful

Too much gobble, gobble?

Six steps to better digestion this holiday season Cheer and goodwill aren't the only things we share during the holiday season. We also swap germs, overindulge in seasonal foods and spirits, and stew in stress - all of which can lead to digestive woes.

Y

ou know you will have to work hard at selfcontrol if you don't want the numbers on the scale to climb by the end of the holiday season. But you can also take steps to

minimise stomach upset, indigestion, bloating, reflux and general intestinal distress during the holidays.

So good yet so bad Holiday foods taste good because they're often rich and high in fat and sugar - qualities that cause not only weight gain but also digestive discomfort. During this hectic time of year, most of us eat more - especially at celebrations.

Giving up holiday treats and favourite dishes would be like going through the season without a tree or twinkling decoration. Rather than suffering digestive distress through indulgence, or choosing to deprive yourself entirely, start with a plan for how you will deal with holiday digestive upset, then take action.

occasional holiday overindulgence. Taking a pro-biotic supplement, can support the growth of good gut bacteria that aid in digestion.

Reduce portion sizes: Reducing portion sizes can help ease holiday strain on your stomach and digestive tract. One easy trick for controlling portion sizes - serve yourself on a dessert-size dish, rather

Steps to feel better Stay hydrated: The busy pace of the holidays may make you forget to drink enough water. What's more, overindulging in holiday libations like cocktails, wine, champagne and beer can actually dehydrate

than a large dinner plate. Smaller portions will look like more on a smaller plate.

Limit variety: Whether a buffet or a sit-down dinner, holiday meals often feature multiple dishes that just

your body. Non-alcoholic sugary beverages like

look so good you want to try them all. Mixing too many

hot chocolate and festive coffees can also throw

different foods, however, can lead to stomach upset.

off

drink

Trying everything - even if it's just a bite or two - can

plenty of water every day throughout the holidays.

rack up the calories, fat and sugar. Instead, choose

your

body's

balance.

Remember

to

Prioritise food choices: Sure, that serving of

just a few favourites to have at each meal.

Christmas pudding looks great on the plate and tastes

Keep exercising: Along with all the other benefits

yummy going down, but will it be worth the heartburn

exercise brings, it can also promote digestive health.

and bloating you'll experience later? Raw veggies are

In addition to its positive physical effects, exercise can

a healthful and fibre-filled alternative to fatty hors

also help relieve holiday stress - a contributor to holiday

d'oeuvres, but be aware that raw vegetables can also

stomach upset. Whether it's an hour at the gym or 30

cause bloating and gas. Pay attention to the foods that

minutes on a yoga mat in your living room, it's important

trigger discomfort and decide how important they really

to maintain an exercise rĂŠgime throughout the holidays.

are. You may be able to substitute something else that's just as satisfying but less upsetting to your stomach.

Promote gut health: If your digestive tract is already

36

in good shape, it will be better equipped to handle

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

With some proactive steps, you can help ensure your holidays stay bright and your stomach stays healthy throughout the season.

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

37

FOOD & DRINK

Pan Fried Swordfish

with a Plum AND Port Sauce

The Marlbank Inn, is at the foot of the Malvern Hills, half a mile west of the village of Welland, on the A4104. We are perfectly positioned for visitors to the Three Counties Showground, Great Malvern, Eastnor Castle, Tewksbury, Ledbury and Herefordshire, the River Severn at Upton Upon Severn, with easy access to the M50/M5 corridor.

The hills and the surrounding areas offer unsurpassed walks and rambles, with the ancient hill fort at British Camp (Hereford Beacon and Castlemorton Common being close by).

We are a dog friendly, family owned and run pub with an ever changing range of cask ales, ciders, including Old Rosie Scrumpy, lagers and wines.

Our restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional pub favourites using only the freshest of produce from the Vale of Evesham and other local growers and suppliers.

INGREDIENTS

the olive oil, butter, salt and

B 130g Swordfish Steak B 1 tsp Olive Oil B Pinch of Salt & Pepper B Knob of Butter

pepper.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE Sauce

B 6 Red Plums Chopped B 2 tbl sugar B 1 Chopped White Onion B 1 chopped red Chilli B 120ml Port B 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce B 200 ml Water

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

minutes.

3 Turn the fish and fry for another 2 minutes and then pop into a hot oven for 4 minutes. method For the sauce 4 Add all the ingredients into a hot pan and simmer for 15 minutes until thickened. method For The

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SautĂŠed Potatoes

B 4 Cooked New potatoes sliced

B 80g Fennel Shredded B 6 Cherry Tomatoes Halved B 100g Samphire B Knob of Butter

Potatoes 5 Add all the ingredients into a hot pan and fry until the potatoes are golden brown.

To Serve Place the potato mixture on a plate and top with the Swordfish steak and plum sauce, add a wedge of lemon

Method FOR THE FISH 1 Into a hot non-stick pan put

38

2 Add the fish and fry for 2

and serve.

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

39

FOOD & DRINK

saving you money

saving your food W 40

The average family could save ÂŁ700 a year, simply by throwing away less food. e throw away 7 million tonnes of food

iPhone and Android and allows you to easily keep

and drink every year from home,

track of food planning, shopping, cooking meals and

costing us ÂŁ12.5bn a year. Find out

making the most of leftovers. The App also has lots

why it's important to reduce food

of great recipe ideas and tips for using forgotten

waste and how to get involved.

foods and leftovers to make great tasting meals.

Download the Love Food

In the UK, we throw away 7m tonnes of food and

Hate Waste app - for free

drink from our homes every year, most of which

The Love Food Hate Waste App has arrived on

could have been eaten if only it was managed better.

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

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41

FOOD & DRINK

KNOW YOUR LABELS

DID YOU KNOW? To extend the life of food beyond its date, freeze it before the date and defrost and use within 24 hours.

BEST BEFORE These dates refer to quality rather than food safety.

Foods with a 'best before' date should be safe to eat after the 'best before' date, but they may no longer be at their best.

USE-BY These dates refer to safety. Food can be eaten up to the end of this date but not after even if it looks and smells fine.

Always follow the storage instructions on packs

DISPLAY UNTIL & SELL BY You can ignore these dates as they are for shop staff not for shoppers.

This good food and drink costs us £12.5bn a year.

List: track everything you need for

You can save almost £60 per month by throwing

your planned meals and alerts you if you have

away less food, and help the environment by saving

duplicates of any ingredients

energy, water and reducing harmful gases.

WHAT'S ON THE APP?

B Loads of great recipes with simple step-by-step instructions, with new recipes added all the time

B Discover recipes instantly that you can make with ingredients you already have in your kitchen

B Portion Planner: we can help you calculate how much you need of the most popular foods

B Meal Planner: a diary for planning recipes, meals and leftovers up to 14 days in advance

B My Kitchen: store all the info about what you've got at home in your fridge, cupboard and freezer

42

B Shopping

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

B Achievements:

unlock badges and share your

culinary accomplishments with friends & family SAVE TIME & MONEY In the UK, we waste £12.5bn a year on food that we buy and then just throw away without it being eaten!

Something as simple as understanding the difference between a 'use by' date and a 'best before' date will not only help us to save our money but we will be helping to protect the planet too.

For more information visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

BEST WESTERN SALFORD HALL HOTEL Christmas bookings now being taken super Santa Sunday

Sunday 18th December

Be prepared for a magical day that the children will love!

Starting with a festive 3 course lunch, followed by our in-house pantomime and a visit from Santa!

Lunch & entertainment: £25 per adult children under 10 years old: £10 per child Table reservations required & pre-order essential

Christmas Day Luncheon

Bring your family together for an extra special celebration with all the festive trimmings. Enjoy a glass of bubbly with canapes on arrival, followed by our traditional five course Christmas lunch with entertainment from our magician.

Adults: £75 per person • Children: £35 per child

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner

Celebrate the New Year with family and friends. Enjoy a glass of bubbly with canapes on arrival, a three course dinner with entertainment from our magician, followed by entertainment until late.

Dinner & Entertainment: £75 per person Dinner, Entertainment with Bed & Breakfast (based on 2 sharing a double room): £250 per room

Menus and more information available in our Christmas Brochure. To request a copy, please call 01386 871 300 or email events@salfordhall.co.uk Best Western Salford Hall Hotel, Abbots Salford, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, WR11 8UT

www.salfordhall.co.uk

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

43

COMPETITION

WIN an overnight

stay for two at the cottage in the wood Tucked away in the tranquil Malvern Hills, gazing out across the beautiful English countryside, The Cottage in the Wood is an award-winning boutique hotel offering sweeping views across the Cotswolds, the Vale of Evesham and the Severn Valley.

S

ounds idyllic? We are giving away an amazing night getaway for two. The perfect place to put up your feet and relax, you will stay in a deluxe room with a stunning view.

Stay in one of the boutique, individually styled rooms in the Georgian stately home, the Coach House or the traditional English cottage.

With breakfast included, you can look forward to a delicious morning feast from the hotel’s award winning restaurant à la carte breakfast menu the following morning, with choices ranging from smoked salmon and scrambled eggs to a hearty full English.

If you decide to stay for dinner, we recommend 1919: the awardwinning restaurant and bar on the hotel grounds. With panoramic

includes an overnight stay in a deluxe room with a stunning view

Cotswolds views and fantastic flavours 1919 is the destination

and breakfast the following morning.

restaurant in Malvern. Serving delicious modern British cuisine ranging from light, healthier dishes to more indulgent meals to

The Cottage in the Wood is nestled in the Malvern Hills, Area of

suit all tastes and appetites.

Outstanding Natural Beauty. As you drive across the Cotswolds

A landscape steeped in history, literature and music, the Malvern

in the Wood nestled on the hillside of the stunningly beautiful

Hills were an important influence on the Middle-earth of JRR

Malvern Hills that rise dramatically before you. The Malvern Hills

Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and their unspoilt

and surrounding area offer lots to do from leisurely countryside

beauty also inspired CS Lewis and Britain’s greatest composer,

walks, hiking or adventure activities to eating, drinking and

Edward Elgar. With scenic countryside walks, vineyard tours and

vineyard tours or cultural and historic excursions.

cultural excursions, the Malvern Hills are sure to inspire you, too.

Our great prize is based on two people sharing a room and

Competition

For your chance to win an overnight stay for two people at The Cottage in the Wood, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

over the plains of the Severn Valley you can see The Cottage

For more information about The Cottage in the Wood visit cottageinthewood.co.uk.

Answer: Name:

What is the name of the restaurant situated on the hotel grounds?

Address:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Cottage in the Wood WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 19th January 2017. Prize is redeemable from 15th March 2017 – 30th April 2017, exclusions may apply. Prize is for two people sharing one room. Prize must be redeemed by the entrant and their invited guest: prize mayISSUE not be162 given as a gift to another person. Additional nights can be booked.

Offer subject to availability. Prize may not be redeemed in conjuction with any WORCESTERSHIRE Now other offers or negotiated Prize applies december 2016rates. i JANUARY 2017to new bookings only and may not be redeemed in place of an existing booking.

Tel:

44

Email: If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from The Cottage in the Wood please tick this box

Christmas Orders Now Being Taken Local oven ready Turkeys, Geese and Chickens Free Range Meat Home Grown Fresh Vegetables Bell’s Own Cider, Apple Juice, Hobsons Beers and Local Wines Like us on facebook for regular updates

Open All Year 9 – 5 Everyday

On the A4025 near Stourport DY13 9SA Visit our website www.bellsfarmshop.co.uk for information and directions 01299 251364 @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

45

keeping active Start/Finish: Walk starts/ends at the War Memorial near ‘The Rose and Crown’ PH in the centre of the Village of Severnstoke. Public Transport: The nearest Railway Station is at Worcester Foregate Street. There are currently buses from Worcester Crown-gate Bus Station to Severnstoke but please check Traveline before leaving. Allow plenty of time to complete the walk before nightfall. Parking: There is parking around the village of Severnstoke. Space for a few cars in Birch Lane itself but take care not to block farm-gates or driveways. O/S Map: Explorer Map 190. Distances: Approx 7 miles (shorter option approx. 4 miles). You can see ‘Pirton Castle’ north-west of point 9 on a clear day. Allow an extra 3 miles to follow the detour to visit this folly near ‘The Old Deer Park’. Time: Leave early and allow all day to do this country walk at a leisurely pace before darkness sets in. There are some lovely views. Refreshments: You could take a picnic or call in at ‘The Rose and Crown’ PH in Severnstoke after your walk. Light lunches and afternoon teas are available from the 1940’s style restaurant at Croome. If you are exploring the grounds further, you will need a ticket or to return on a separate day with more time to spare. Groups need to contact the Croome Visitor Centre. (01905) 371006. Terrain: This walk is mainly flat with a few gentle slopes. There are gates, stiles, footbridges and a few steps. Boots are essential due to uneven paths and muddy areas.

Poles are useful in muddy conditions. The paths are well maintained near Croome Park. History: Croome Landscape Park is being restored from an overgrown site to the park of the mid 18th century when Landscape Architect, Lancelot Capability Brown (born 1716 – died 1778) undertook his first commission at the 6th Earl of Coventry’s rural retreat. 2016 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of this great man so let us explore this masterpiece in garden design here in the County of Worcestershire.

1: From War memorial, cross A38 with care, turn left then right down Birch Lane to footpath that leads ‘right’ from corner. Cross stile on left and bear right at fork in meadow. At woodland, cross small footbridge into field beyond.

2: Walk straight ahead passing very close to ‘ Panorama Tower’ on Knight’s Hill which is one of the ‘eye-catchers’ of Croome Court acquired by National Trust in 2009 and restored to its present state. It was designed by James Wyatt in mid-18th century as part of Capability Brown’s ‘vision’ for Croome Park.

Please remain on right of way. There are special open days if you want to see inside. Continue across field, walking around end

of plantation of conifers on left. Cross large field diagonally left, towards clump of fir trees, to exit over a stile in top corner.

3: Turn right to fork in lanes and immediately left towards Kinnersley.

Take footpath through large metal gate on right that will take you across fields towards Earl’s Croome Church. Walk down side of next field, with hedge on left, to exit on lane. Turn left along lane.

4: At junction in lanes in centre of Kinnersley, turn left to double path on right, taking right fork. Walk straight ahead, towards M5 motorway. At corner, turn right and walk parallel to motorway to ‘stock-bridge’ (with steps on each side). From bridge, you will glimpse ‘Dunstall Castle’, another of Croome Park’s Follies to south-east.

Walk northwards, parallel to M5 then curve right to a track. Turn right into Croome Estate and walk 1/3 mile through a woodland strip to a metal gate and on to kiss-gate. Cross paddock to small gate then across track to kiss-gate leading to Westfield Farm and Stables.

5: (Note: short walk goes left here. Please keep to ‘right of way’ along left side of lake, over track and diagonally left to stile out of Croome Park at Estate Village of High Green at point 9. Main walk leaves Westfield Farm and goes south-eastwards across ‘Capability’ Brown’s landscape with magnificent views of Croome Court across the Serpentine, sculptured from Croome River in mid-18th century by this architect of great vision. Cross weir and climb up onto ridge.

6: At junction in paths, turn left. This path takes you north for nearly a mile, passing Court, ‘Capability’ Brown’s ‘Rotunda’ and ‘Ha-Ha’ at close quarters.

7: Exit onto lane near ‘London Gate’ and walk straight on to footpath on left that leads to Croome Church.

8: From Church, walk northwards, through gate, turning left downhill.

To view Pirton Castle follow ‘red arrow’ signs along right fork but return to this point to complete walk. The main walk continues down slope to gate leading round outer perimeter of Landscape Park to path that cuts diagonally across field to estate workers village of High Green.

9: Walk westwards through

village, across M5 and left at

junction. (Note: shorter route joins here).

10: Take path on right behind ‘Panorama Tower’. Turn right at junction and retrace steps back to War Memorial.

Written and illustrated by glynis dray

‘Capability’ Brown at Croome Court 46

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

living history

MALVERN THEATRES Nestling at the foot of the Malvern Hills, Malvern Theatres is a major centre for the arts in the West Midlands.

Home of the famous Malvern Festivals, founded by Bernard Shaw and Barry Jackson in 1929, the theatre now comprises a 300 seat cinema, plus two 800 seat auditoria the Festival Theatre and the Forum Theatre. maintenance of the theatres. Member events and activities, both social and fund-raising, have altered over the years to meet the changing needs of the Theatre.

One of the most important contributions the Association makes to the Malvern Theatres is the supply of volunteer staff for front of house duties for events in the Festival Theatre and the Forum Theatre.

Malvern Theatre Association together with the MTA Club has contributed more than £46,000 towards the Redevelopment Appeal in 1997. Since the building

H

reopened they have supplied the orchestra rail in ailed both locally and nationally as a model of artistic and architectural excellence, Malvern

Theatres

boasts

a

diverse

programme of drama, comedy, music

and dance and is certainly successful at attracting world-famous names. The internationally acclaimed new production of Waiting for Godot starring an

the Festival Theatre, the handrails in the Circle, the lighting desk, some follow spots, a PA system, and a backstage heating system, totalling some £29,000.

The Club also gifted the large wall clock that can be seen above the bar and foyer area; this was commissioned from silversmith and clockmaker Marianne Forrest.

incomparable cast of Ian McKellen, Patrick Stewart,

Currently the Malvern Theatre Association has nearly

Simon Callow and Ronald Pickup opened at Malvern

300 members and welcomes new additions.

Theatres. This highly-anticipated play was both a box office and critical success, drawing visitors from all over the country before the play departed on a sell-out tour and extended West End run. These acting giants were just the latest in a long line of internationally renowned film stars to appear at Malvern: a line-up that includes Joan Collins, Charlton Heston, Richard Dreyfuss, Jerry Hall, Helen Mirren and Donald

History The foundation stone of the Malvern Assembly Rooms was laid by the then Earl Beauchamp on Saturday July 6th 1884. Also present were Jenny Lind, Lady Emily Foley and Dr W. T. Fernie, a local “water cure” doctor and chairman of the board of the Assembly Rooms and Pleasure Gardens Company.

Sutherland among others.

In his speech, Dr Fernie said that for a long time past, the want of Assembly Rooms had been felt and that

Malvern Theatre Association -

as early as 1883 an offer had been made for the land

Founded 1964

then known as the promenade gardens. A company

The Malvern Theatre Association (MTA) was founded in

had then been started to raise the necessary funds,

1964 for the support of the Malvern Festival Theatre,

and 2000 shares (of £5 each) were quickly applied

which at that time was having problems and was

for and allotted. The construction of the Assembly

under threat of closure. Since then, the association

Rooms was completed and the premises open by July

has played an important role in the support and

1st 1885. @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

47

golden years

preparing for winter Cold weather can be a worry for those of us in later life. As we get older, our bodies

B

respond differently and this can leave us more vulnerable in cold weather.

ut with a little preparation, and by following some simple suggestions, we can help ourselves to stay healthy, safe and as comfortable as possible in winter. More

suggestions can be found in the Age UK Winter Wrapped Up guide.

Keeping warm both inside and outside your home can help reduce your risk of serious health problems that are more common in the colder months, such as chest infections, heart attacks and strokes.

Getting ready for the cold weather – which can start as early as October – means that you’re more likely to keep warm and well. Here are some things you can do to stay safe and ward off the winter chills:

B Get your heating system serviced every year by a qualified engineer to ensure it's running safely.

B If water pipes freeze they can burst. Make sure you know where the main stopcock is and check that it's easy to turn so you can turn off the water if you need to.

B Make sure your smoke alarm is working. You can ask your local fire service to check your home for fire safety. It’s free and you may be eligible to get free smoke alarms fitted.

B Install an audible carbon monoxide alarm in each room that has a gas appliance.

B Make sure you claim all the financial support you can to help with heating bills.

B Dress in plenty of layers and make sure you have warm shoes or boots with non-slip soles.

48

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

B Keep a mixture of salt and sand handy to put on steps or paths in icy weather.

B Consider fitting a grab rail if you have steps at your front or back door.

B Keep simple cold, flu and sore throat remedies in the house.

B Follow up your GP’s invitation to have a flu jab.

B Order repeat prescriptions in plenty of time, particularly if bad weather is forecast.

B Ask your local pharmacy if they offer a prescription pick-up and delivery service.

B Keep basic food items in the cupboard or freezer in case it’s too cold to go shopping. You could also do your food shopping online and get it delivered to your door.

B Eat healthily and keep as active as possible.

B Ask your family, neighbours or friends if they could call or visit you more often.

B Keep a torch handy in case you lose power and keep your radio, mobile phone, laptop or tablet fully charged, so you can use the battery power if there's no electricity. If there is a power cut you can call 105 for free. You'll be put through to your local network operator who can give you help and advice.

B Keep a list of emergency numbers, such as your utility companies, by your phone.

For more information about how to prepare for winter, download Age Uk's free information guide Winter Wrapped Up from www/ageuk.org.uk

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

49

golden years

Live life to the full at Inspired Villages Idyllic surroundings, a tailored service when you need it the most… everybody has a vision of their perfect retirement. No matter what you want from life beyond 65, good health and a sense of wellbeing is something

A

that we all hope for. t Inspired Villages, residents will be able

proposition. There are 151 new homes planned,

to live their lives to the full, with all the

comprising three di fferent types of accommodation,

trappings of a luxury and comfortable

to match a range of lifestyles and care requirements.

retirement.

The

new

village

under

development in Warwick, will offer everything from hotel-style room service to on-site transport provision, as well as a range of recreational facilities.

Residents at the Inspired Village in Warwick will also bene fit from an exclusive membership to the on-site wellness centre – which includes a rejuvenating spa pool and a gymnasium offering specially tailored classes.

The array of facilities, services and activities available will ensure good health and wellbeing can be maintained for all villagers. There will be plenty of opportunities to socialise, learn new hobbies or simply relax in the luxurious surroundings.

The team behind Inspired Villages have put their passion for design and detail into the Warwick development. The

want people living in the village to experience the very highest standard in retirement, and have the opportunity to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.

From the manicured gardens to the bustling bistro and tranquil spa, the village will offer residents exceptional surroundings, luxurious homes and a variety of social options.

“We also understand that everyone has their own speci fic needs when moving home. That’s why for a limited time we are offering a package of support services, including a free relocation consultation, assistance with legal fees and help towards the costs of removals.”

result is an impressive retirement village of exclusive

In phase one, apartment prices at Inspired Villages

one and two-bedroom homes in Heathcote in historic

in Warwick range from £259,000 to £558,000.

Warwickshire, just 2 miles from Royal Leamington Spa

50

James Cobb, Sales and Marketing Director, said: “We

and a stones throw from Warwick Castle.

For more information please drop into the sales

The safe environment, coupled with an enviable array

CV34 6AF, call on 01926 680 024 or email

of complementary facilities is proving to be an attractive

warwick@inspiredvillages.co.uk

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

suite on Gallagher way, Heathcote, Warwickshire

South Hayes Care Home

Ideally Located Residential Home Approximately Half Mile From City Centre We have a large garden and two Victorian Conservatories A secure, relaxed and homely atmosphere offering:

Long or short term care, Respite, Convalescence & Day Care

Tel: 01905 357429 Fax: 01905 351122 101 London Road, Worcester, WR5 2DZ

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

51

golden years

CHURCHILL RETIREMENT LIVING

STUNNING NEW DEVELOPMENT IN PERSHORE The picturesque market town of Pershore is the latest addition to award-winning retirement housebuilder, Churchill Retirement Living’s stunning developments in the Midlands.

T

his prestigious development of 24 one and

The development is ideally located in the town

two bedroom retirement apartments is

centre enabling owners to enjoy everything the

scheduled for completion in the Spring of

historic town has to offer within a short distance

2017 with construction already well under way.

As well as being stylish throughout with well planned room layouts, modern kitchens and bathrooms, key features of each apartment include illuminated light switches, a camera entry system, a 24 hour careline support system and much more besides, all providing peace of mind to the apartment owners and their families.

Communal areas feature the spacious owners’ lounge where owners can relax and enjoy the company of fellow owners and take part in the exciting lifestyle events, or just enjoy having friends and family over for a visit and looking out over the beautiful landscaped gardens and stunning and enticing views of the local countryside.

52

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

from their apartments.

For more information about this exciting new development, please email enquiries to enquiries@churchillretirement.co.uk or call 0800 458 1852.

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

53

EDUCATION

MUSIC AT SEVERN ARTS At Severn Arts we believe passionately in the power of music and its importance to the broader education of all children. Our aim is to make every school in Worcestershire a musical school - last year we worked, in some capacity, with 90% of schools in the county to achieve this end.

A

t our core we offer instrumental and vocal tuition in schools. Within our highly trained team we have expertise in every instrument and genre. Ask at your school to find out what opportunities are available.

We also have an instrument hire service available to pupils learning with Severn Arts.

Outside of school we run a wide range of orchestras and bands at all levels. At our four Music Centres based in Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Malvern and Worcester, pupils who are new to playing in an ensemble can try out their first term free of charge. More advanced players can join one of our county orchestras, and our first rock school will be launching in Redditch in the New Year.

To find out more about the full range of musical opportunities available with Severn Arts, as well about our wider arts provision, visit our website – www.severnarts.org.uk

54

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

FORMERLY WORCESTERSHIRE YOUTH MUSIC

OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR SCHOOL AND BEYOND WITH SEVERN ARTS! Learn to sing or play an instrument Play in our bands and orchestras Take part in concerts and events

Find our more: www.severnarts.org.uk

Need further information?

01905 729993 • www.hwgta.org

WGTA Apprentice Awards Evening 2016 Find The Right Vocation For You!

Back Row L-R: Alex Bethell, Michelle Wood, Tom Griffin, Mohammed Idris, Christian Frost, Christopher Belfort, Annette Cattermole, Megan Lloyd Front Row L-R: Ellie-May Ward, Rebecca McMann, Chloe Partridge, Andrew Triggs-Hodge MBE, Lauren Horrigan, Christopher Harris, Phillipa Dressler-Pearson 1. The winner of the First Year Engineering Apprentice of the Year, from Worcester Bosch, Alex Bethell 2. The winner of the Excellence in Accountancy award from Ludlow Thompson, Ellie-May Ward

1

3

3. The winner of the Commerce Apprentice of the Year Level 2, from Worcestershire Acute NHS Trust, Megan Lloyd

5

4. Senior Engineering Apprentice Technician of the Year, from Southco Manufacturing Ltd, Phillipa Dressler Pearson 5. Apprenticeship Champion Award from, Doncasters Precision Castings – Deritend, Tom Griffin

2

4

Andrew attended our Annual Apprentice Awards Evenings 2016 in Worcester at Worcester Rugby Club, Sixways recently.

His presentation on his experiences as an Olympic rower and realizing that he was better suited to a vocational rather than academic route, and that rowing was his vocation, was relevant and inspiring to our apprentices. Andrew stressed the importance of, once finding the right vocation, not being frightened to push as hard as you can to achieve your goals.

We have had very positive feedback from many of the apprentices, their parents and employers.

Andrew was a pleasure to work with and spent a lot of time talking to our guests before and after the ceremony and was photographed numerous times with his Rio gold medal!

Duane Sanger, Chief Executive Herefordshire & Worcestershire Group Training Association

Fast track your application: info@wgta.org.uk or call: Main Office - 01905 729993

6. The Apprentice Employer of the Year is awarded to Sanctuary Group – presented to Michelle Wood and Annette Cattermole

6

The WGTA Apprenticeship Prize Winners 2016 Mohammed Idris From Yamazaki Mazak Engineering Apprentice Endeavour Award

Megan Lloyd From Worcestershire Acute NHS Trust Commerce Apprentice of the Year Level 2

Lauren Horrigan From Fortis Living Commerce Apprentice Personal Development Award

Christian Frost From Yamazaki Mazak Senior Engineering Craft Apprentice of the Year

Christopher Harris From Fortis Living Commerce Apprentice Endeavour Award Christopher Belfort From Amada UK Ltd Engineering Apprentice Personal Development Award

Ellie-May Ward From Ludlow Thompson Excellence in Accountancy Phillipa Dressler Pearson From Southco Manufacturing Ltd Senior Engineering Apprentice Technician of the Year

Alex Bethell From Worcester Bosch Tom Griffin First Year Engineering Apprentice of the Year From Doncasters Precision Castings - Deritend Apprentice Champion Chloe Partridge & Rebecca McMann From Sanctuary Group Sanctuary Group Commerce Apprentice of the Year Level Apprentice Employer of the Year 3 or 4

Follow us on Twitter @hwgta or visit www.hwgta.org

Visit our 2017 Worcester Open Days Thursday 16th February Wednesday 22nd February

Drop-in at Sunnyside Road, Worcester WR1 1RL anytime from 4pm - 7pm

Getting paid while you learn might sound too good to be true - but as an Apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

55

MALVERN

CHRISTMAS IN malvern T The time of year where thoughts turn to Christmas and ushering in a new year is once again upon us. he run up to Christmas is the perfect time

out along the A449, taking its name from historically

to take a trip to peruse the local stores in

being a staging area for additional horses to be

search of gifts and trinkets reserved for

linked to wagons in readiness for the long climb

the festive season. Malvern’s offering is

to the top of the town. A short walk from Malvern

unique thanks to its plentiful and varied collection

Link, you’ll find one of the two train stations that

of independent stores located across the three

sits opposite Link Common; a popular location for

shopping districts of the town.

walkers and handily has the Nags Head pub close

The diversity in the town’s cafes, restaurants, shops and entertainment means you should have no problem whiling away the day exploring Malvern, investigating what the town has to offer and visiting the many different independently owned stores. The town’s high number of independent stores creates a personal and individual shopping experience with each store’s owner taking the time to make your shopping experience as personal and enjoyable as possible.

56

by for a refreshing beverage post-stroll. Barnards Green sits just down the hill from Malvern’s other train station that lives between Great Malvern and Barnards Green. Barnards Green is teeming with independently owned shops and will be looking particularly pretty this year with the newly installed Christmas lights, courtesy of Malvern Town Council’s recent investment. If in the Green this Christmas, there are a few places of interest to satisfy the Christmas shopping list. The Cheeseboard if you’re looking to put together a special collection of

The 7 parishes that combine to make Malvern the

cheeses is a must. If you’re looking for inspiration

town prominently stand out from one another, as do

when trying to find a gift, stopping in at Just So is

the 3 main shopping areas. Malvern Link stretches

bound to unearth something. As you look up at the

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

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Quarter Jewellery(Worcester)

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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) + £15 3. Set some bright white diamonds + £30 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 £37.50 per gram for 9ct or £75 per gram for 18ct

The most reasonable Jewellers in Worcester 27 The Shambles, Worcester

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Malvern Goldsmiths - 28/30 Belle Vue Terrace

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

57

MALVERN

Malvern Christmas Services 2016 All welcome to join us at any of the Christmas events Sunday 4th December, 9.30am Gift service with donations Somers Park Avenue Methodist Church For the Women’s Refuge and Malvern Hills Foodbank Tuesday 13th December, 7.45pm Carols with the Malvern Salvation Army Band Somers Park Avenue Methodist Church. All welcome Thursday 15th December, 2pm Concert with Malvern Wells School Choir Upper Welland Methodist Church

glorious Malvern Hills, you’ll see clinging to the side of them Church Street and Belle Vue Terrace of Great Malvern. Great Malvern is home to the very popular Malvern Theatres that stage world class productions that you’ll likely see plying the West End. With the growing collection of restaurants and cafes in Great Malvern, there’s plenty of reasons to make an evening of it. Depending on your fancy, you have the likes of the recently opened Gallery 36, residing by the Elgar Statue on Belle Vue Terrace, which serves contemporary locally sourced dishes. Prezzo is a short hop down the pavement if a pizza is more to your liking and a little further along again, is the incredibly popular Terrace on the Hill that transforms from café by day to fine dining restaurant by night.

When looking to take a break, and a breath of fresh air is the order of the day, Malvern has you covered. Not only is there the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that are the Malvern Hills, famous for the water that springs from them, but numerous beautifully maintained parks around the town. Both town and district councils, responsible for the parks’ upkeep, take great pride in making the green spaces look their best throughout the year. Additionally, Malvern has two common land areas. One by Malvern Link, as previously mentioned, and another that divides Great Malvern and Malvern Wells. Both offer fantastic places to go and wear out a dog, or small children, with their expansive areas. Car parking is provided at both, free of charge, enabling you to step from car to common.

So, this year, rather than head for the big high streets full of national chains, take a moment to consider heading into Malvern and making that your Christmas shopping destination for 2016. Investigate what makes Malvern the town it is. You’ll be greeted with smiles and variety and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, ask and the chances are that it can be found. Everyone here would love to see you and we’re certainly not short of things to do and see.

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Sunday 18th December, 10.30am Christmas Carol Service Upper Welland Methodist Church Led by Rev Alison Richards followed by coffee Sunday 18th December, 10.30am Christmas Carol Family Service Somers Park Avenue Methodist Church Led by Mr John Rogers followed by coffee Sunday 18th December, 6.30pm Traditional Carol Service Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church Led by Rev Alison Richards with Lansdowne Choir.

Children’s craft activities. Coffee served afterwards in the Welcome Room Saturday 24th December, 7pm Christmas Eve Carols in the Crescent Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church Outdoor carol singing with musicians. Glow sticks for the children. Followed by hot fruit punch and mince pies in the church Saturday 24th December, 11.30pm Candle Lit Christmas Eve Holy Communion Service Upper Welland Methodist Church. With by Rev A Richards Sunday 25th December, 9.30am Christmas Day Celebration Service Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church With Rev A. Richards followed by coffee served in the Welcome Room.

Sunday 25th December, 9.30am Christmas Day Celebration Service Somers Park Avenue Methodist Church With Mrs Rachel Leather Sunday 25th December Alone at Christmas?

Lansdowne Crescent Methodist Church Christmas Day Lunch served at the church.

Contact 01684 560028. No evening service Sunday 25th December Alone at Christmas?

Upper Welland Methodist Church Christmas Day Lunch served at the church. Contact 01684 310634 for details . No service at 10.30am.

N W worcestershire

we will be delivering even more copies to more homes and are looking for distributors in:

PERSHORE

If you are interested in earning extra income please contact: Dawn Pardoe Tel: 01905 727909 dawn@pw-media.co.uk

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

59

CHRISTMAS

A VERY BRITISH CHRISTMAS? Urrgghh, German Christmas markets. These days they're practically obligatory for every town and city in Britain, and they do odd things like replacing mulled wine with GlĂźhwein, and have stalls promoting gingerbread and stollen.

B

etween that, the evolving of Father Christmas

sitting around the Christmas tree at Windsor Castle,

to the foreign Santa, and the decline of the

which was printed in the Illustrated News in 1848.

nativity play, it is starting to feel like there

Before then, the Christmas tree was largely a 16th

isn't very much Britishness left in our town

Century German tradition, symbolising the Garden of

Christmas’ any more.

On reasearching it transpires that our nationalist feelings over Christmas has more to do with the enduring influence of the Victorians than any rational claim to an age-old heritage. And the Victorians were influenced, well, by the Germans. It seems that this was not covered in the ITV program of Young Victoria, maybe it happens in the next series.

60

Eden (it was mainly hung with apples). Martin Luther, the German Protestant reformer, had the idea of adding candles to the tree, after seeing stars shining through the branches of a fir tree.

Although Father Christmas is a tradition on these isles, he has become subsumed into the figure of Santa, who was a Turk. Saint Nicholas, the 4th Century bishop of Myra, was from a region of Ancient Greece that is now

Christmas was barely celebrated in the early 19th

part of modern Turkey; the Dutch garbled his name,

Century. Businesses didn't even close on the 25th.

changing it from Sint Nikolaas to Sinterklass, and in

But once the German-born Prince Albert came on the

1935, a Coca-Cola ad man called Haddon Sundblo

scene, it was suddenly all the rage, prompted largely

gave him his iconic red suit. After the drepression

by the famous etching of Queen Victoria and family

Coca-Cola thought we needed cheering up.

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

De Beers Garden and Craft Centre Great Value Real Christmas Trees and Wreaths Farm shop and Butchers Ladies Fashion Cafe - Serving Fabulous Homecooked Meals Antiques and Collectables Lots of Gifts for Christmas Large Supply of Basketware and Lots More

Worcester Rd, Kidderminster DY11 7SB | Open seven days a week: 8.30am - 5pm

Tel: 01299 251 162 | www.de-beersgroup.com

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

61

CHRISTMAS

The Americans have a lot to answer for.

Mistletoe? Tenbury Wells is famous for it

being replaced by the email or social media

Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer was

and their sale but the tradition of kissing

message that no christmas cards are being

first created in 1939 by the American

beneath the plant derives from a Norse

sent – all money given to charity, although

copywriter Robert L May, who created

legend in which the mischievous Loki

the charities are not so confident. Still they

the character for the Montgomery Ward

uses a mistletoe arrow to kill Balder, the

orginally started in the UK.

company. Reindeer is actually an old

god of the sun.

Norse word but I guess the North America cousin of Caribou doesn’t have the same ring. Stockings started with the Turkish Saint Nicholas. He was renowned for his generosity and his name day was marked by the giving of gifts. This became mixed with a dash of Scandinavian paganism, as

The pudding is also ours, even down

Tinsel? Nope that came from seventeenth-

to the sixpence at the bottom. In the

century Europe. Baubles? The Romans

14th Century it was a sort of porridge

used them to symbolise the earth and the

made of mutton,beef, raisins, prunes,

sun. Brussels sprouts? They originated

spices and wine, and used as a method

with the Romans, then the Dutch, then an

of preservation. The tradition of the

Irish Christmas tradition.

Christmas turkey, or goose, also originated in the UK, so did mince pies, though they

children would fill their shoes with straw

Hurrah, christmas crackers were invented

and vegetables and leave them out to

were inspired by Middle Eastern recipes

by someone from the UK shores, a

feed Odin’s horse, Sleipnin and have

picked up by the Crusaders abroad.

London sweet shop owner by the name

them filled with sweets in return.

of Tom Smith. He was inspired by the

So there you have it. Aside from the

wrappers around French bonbons!

turkey, mince pies, pudding and cards,

defined the tradition by leaving stockings

Christmas cards were first sent by Sir

Maybe we all should embrace the non-

stuffed with goodies – including an apple

Henry Cole, head of the Victoria and Albert

British traditions, german markets and

and a satsuma – outside the houses of

Museum, in 1843, who found himself too

all. After all, could there be a better

the poor. Those nuns were French.

busy to write letters. These are slowly

expression of Britishness?

In the 12th Century, a group of nuns

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Christmas is a largely foreign mélange.

Tel: 01299 826169 • www.cooks-garden-centre.co.uk

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

63

our events diary

© Rob Stothard

Step back in time with the National Trust this Christmas From the opulence of a Georgian Christmas at Hanbury Hall to the gentle flicker of the candles at Greyfriars house, visitors to National Trust places in Worcestershire can step back in time and discover the magic of Christmases gone by.

E

ach special place in the charity's care will be decorated to reflect its own unique history, telling the stories of the people who lived and worked there, and allowing visitors to experience Christmas traditions of old, in the very place

where they happened.

Sunday 4th December - Monday 2nd January 2017 Georgian Christmas

At Croome visitors can start their day in the 1940s as the former

Decorations in Croome Court at Croome,

RAF airbase, now the Visitor Centre, is decked out with 1940s

Nr High Green, Worcester WR8 9DW.

style decorations, then time-travel back to Georgian times in the

Tel: 01905 371006

Court, with its 24ft and 20ft Christmas trees decorated with dried fruit, paper decorations and cinnamon sticks. There will also be two very special Christmas trees on show in the Long Gallery, decorated by students from Birmingham Metropolitan College, inspired by the first and second wives of the 6th Earl of Coventry.

Emma Armstrong, Visitor Experience Officer at Hanbury Hall comments: “The attention to detail our staff and volunteers take in preparing for Christmas creates such a feeling of authenticity, from carols by candlelight in the Great Hall to traditional floral displays throughout the Hall, it’s like stepping back in time. And every time you visit, it helps us look after Hanbury Hall so it’ll be protected, and part of our visitor’s Christmas traditions for years to come”.

64

Christmas at National Trust properties in Worcestershire

ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

Until Saturday 17th December 2016 Christmas through the Ages Greyfriars’ House and Garden, Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2LZ, Tel: 01905 23571. Step back through five centuries of festive tradition, from medieval times to the 1950's.

Until Friday 6th January 2017 Mr Vernon’s Grand Christmas Hanbury Hall, Hanbury WR9 7EA, Tel: 01527 821214. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a country house preparing for the season.

Full details at nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

65

our events diary

love food, hate waste What does Christmas mean to you? A table groaning with turkey, stuffing, vegetables, pigs-in-blankets, mince pies and Christmas pudding? It’s a common image this time of year; but it often ends in huge amounts of food being wasted.

R

esearch has shown that 4.2 million Christmas dinners were wasted across the United Kingdom in 2014. The figure is the equivalent to 263,000 turkeys; 7.5 million mince pies; 740,000 slices of Christmas

pudding; 17.2 million Brussels sprouts; 11.9 million carrots and 11.3 million roast potatoes.

With households spending an average of £112 on food, this amounts to £64 million of squandered food each Christmas.

Worcestershire County Council works with the Love Food Hate Waste campaign and has this advice to stop you falling

calculator on it to help you work out how to cater for a larger number of people than normal.

B Don't be tempted by food "just because it's Christmas".

Ask yourself "will anybody really eat those dates?"

B Do your food shop online – not only will you avoid the hordes of people, you will be able to control what you buy.

B Use your freezer as your friend! Make sure any food that is not used is frozen. Food can be frozen right up to the use by date.

For more information on reducing your food waste including new recipes for using that left-over turkey go

into the temptation of over buying this Christmas:

to www.lovefoodhatewaste.com.

B Plan how much you will need. The Love Food Hate Waste

For general tips on reducing waste this Christmas go to

website www.lovefoodhatewaste.com has a portion

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

www.letswasteless.com

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

67

our events diary

DECEMBER

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

making workshop

The Ashmolean Museum, Tudor House,

Wildwood Drive, Worcester, WR5 2LG

High Street, Broadway, WR12 7DP

Time: 10am - 1pm or 2pm - 5pm

Magical Christmas Experience

Time: 5.30pm - 8.30pm

£35 per person - pre-booking is essential

Every weekend

All Things Wild, Station Road Honeybourne, Evesham, WR11 7QZ Cost: Children: £12.99 includes admission to the park and the Grotto.

Adults: £10.49 admission to park only.

Annual members children only pay for Grotto admission £4, adults Free.

Children under 3 only pay for Grotto admission £4.

Cost: Entry will be free if you wish just to visit our shop. Otherwise

monday 5th – saturday 31st

normal admission charges apply.

THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PANTO

Tel: 01386 859047

Palace Theatre, Alcester

www.ashmoleanbroadway.org

Street, Redditch, B98 8AE Cost: £14.00 - £22.00

Saturday 3rd

www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk

AN EVENING WITH ARCHERS Artrix, Slideslow Drive,

FRIDAY 9th

www.allthingswild.co.uk

Bromsgrove, B60 1PQ

Mark Summers - Elvis Tribute

Time: 7.30pm

Kidderminster Town Hall,

Thursday 1st – Sunday 18th

Cost: £14

Vicar Street, Kidderminster,

Tel: 01527 577 330

Worcestershire, DY10 1DB

www.artrix.co.uk

Time: 7.30pm

Santa’s Grotto Arley Arboretum, The Estate Office,

Cost: £11

Upper Arley, Nr. Bewdley, DY12 1XG Time: 11.30am - 4pm

Dogs Trust Christmas Fair

Cost:

£5.00 per child pre-booked

Dogs Trust Evesham, 89 Pitcher’s Hill,

£6 per child on the door

Wickhamford, Evesham, WR11 7RT

saturday 10th

Please book early

Time: 12:00pm - 4:00pm

Christmas 1816

Tel: 01299 861368

Tel: 01386 830 613

The Parish Centre Our Lady & All Saints

www.arleyarboretum.co.uk

www.dogstrust.org.uk

13 New Road, Stourbridge, DY8 1PQ

Tel: 01562 732158

(for sat nav use DY8 1PJ) Friday 2nd

Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th

No access from New Road (the ring-road)

A NIGHT OF 50'S AND 60'S MUSIC

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Time: 6.30pm

The Civic Centre, New Street,

St Peter's Garden Centre, Pear Tree

Cost: £7.00

Stourport-on-Severn, DY13 8UJ

Farm, Broomhall, Worcester, WR5 2NY

Tel: 07807 199870

Time: 8.00pm

Time: 8.30am

Cost: £5 per person

Cost: £9.99 per child. Price includes a

saturday 10th & sunday 11th

children’s cooked breakfast, gift and

Christmas at the Castle

CONCERT BY CANDLELIGHT

a visit from Santa in the restaurant.

Worcestershire County Museum,

St Lawrence Church, Alvechurch, B48 7SB

www.stpetersgardencentre.co.uk

Hartlebury Castle, DY11 7XZ. Time: 11am - 4pm

Time: 7.30pm Tel: 0121 447 7040

sunday 4th

Tel: 01299 250416

www.midlandsinfonia.co.uk

Christmas wreath

www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

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ISSUE 162 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2016 i JANUARY 2017

>>

ChipsAway at the forefront

of SMART Vehicle Repairs

T

he new ChipsAway carcare business near Morrisons in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire on the Buntsford Park Industrial Estate is proving a hit with locals, offering a quality alternative to traditional bodyshop repairers.

ChipsAway is an international automotive repair business for bodywork scratches, employing their own industry-standard, inhouse developed, SMART system.

With the ChipsAway method, only the damaged area is repainted, rather than conventional methods which require the whole panel to be painted. This offers the dual benefit to the customer of economical, sameday repairs. Furthermore, any factory production colour can be matched exactly. Bumper scuffs, alloy wheel scrapes,

dents and the like also fall within the scope of work undertaken

by Mike Smith and his team of fully-qualified, highly respected, SMART repair specialists.

Having a static site facilitates year-round repair-work being carried out regardless of the weather and also, the soonto-be installed paint booth will enable this ChipAway operation to offer large panel repair and respray jobs.

The long-term plan is to make Bromsgrove into a superhub and then establish a number of satellite centres around the region.

ChipsAway is part of the Franchise Brands group and has been operating for over 20 years with around 300 franchisees across the UK.

@WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

69

our events diary

sunday 11th

saturday 17th & sunday 18th

Kidderminster, DY11 7DY

The Tom Kliphuis trio

Christmas Afternoon Tea

Time: 8:00pm – 11:00pm

goes Grapelli

Hall Lane, Harvington, DY10 4LR

Cost: £4.50 per person

Feckenham Village Hall, High Street,

Time: Service from 2pm, last booking

Tel: 01588 674823

Feckenham, Redditch, B96 6HN

time 3.30pm. Open between 2pm & 5pm

www.hotsytotsyentertainmentinc.co.uk

Time: 7.30pm – 10.00pm

Cost: £25.50 per person or £29.50

www.ticketsource.co.uk/feckenham

with a glass of Prosecco Tel: 01562 887 290

thursday 15th

www.hagleyhall.com/whats-on

JANUARY Tuesday 3rd

The Malverns to Worcestershire

YOUNG AT ART: COLOURFUL FESTIVE WREATHS

Thursday 22nd

Beacon and beyond with

The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts,

The Andy Williams

Worcester Ramblers

Worcester, WR1 3PB

Christmas Extravaganza

Wyche Cutting, Upper Wyche

Time: 10:30am - 12:00pm

Malvern Theatre, Grange Rd,

(by the shelter), WR13 6DQ

Cost: £3.00 per child

Malvern, WR14 3HB

Time: 10:00am

www.thehiveworcester.org

Cost: £40.32 (incl 12% booking fee); £169.68

Cost: Free

VIP Meet & greet packages available.

Tel: 01386 556543

saturday 17th

Tel: 01684 892277

Christmas Charity Concert

www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

Saturday 14th Worcester & Malvern Dog Show

Great Malvern Priory, Church St, WR14 2AY Time: 1:30pm - 3:30pm

FRIDAY 23rd

Three Counties Showground

Tel: 01684 566667

Evening Social Dance

Malvern, WR13 6NW

Email: ldavies@malvern-tic.org.uk

Gilt Edge Club, Zortech Avenue

Tel: 0121 240 1563

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