Worcestershire Now December 2017/January 2018

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

december 2017 ¯ january 2018

issue 173

Happy Holidays

Great Careers begin at Evesham College

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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

CONTENTS

ADVERTISE

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

Philip Butler Wendy Carter Helen Wendy Cooper Glynis Dray AGE UK Aspen Retirement Homes Astley Vineyard Churchfields Saltworks Clearwell Caves Evesham College House of Colour Worcester BID

COMPETITION WINNERS Three course meal and an overnight stay for two at Southcrest Manor Hotel V. Lewis, Worcester

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Statement chairs add life to a room by being a centerpiece that accents the rest of the decor.

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ERRATUM

Due to an error with the closing date on the SAKS competition in our November issue we will be re-running it in the new year. Any entries received for the November competition will be entered into the future competition - we apologise for any inconvenience.

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

Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

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There’s nothing quite like a big gathering of jackdaws and rooks as darkness falls...

mind your manners

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Here are a selection of products that are ideal as a gift for yourself, friends or family.

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CONTENTS

48

40

your winter wedding

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Seasonal Roast Venison by Churchfields Saltworks

dec 2017 ¯ jan 2018

54

ISSUE 173

52

The Chaddesley Corbett Circular

staying safe and warm

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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your what´s on guide

62 4

win with astley´s vineyard

Many children arriving at primary school are not ready to take part in classroom activities.

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HERE & NOW

STREAMLINE THE WORCESTERSHIRE AUTHOR UNCOVERING THE COUNTY’S JAZZ AGE LEGACY

M

area of the town. “Built post WWII, but in

factories,

Lisbon,

a distinct 1930s ‘Streamline Moderne’

homes, shops, cinemas, swimming pools,

Melbourne, London… just a

style, it appeared fairly unique locally,

garages, pubs, hotels, a transmitting

few of the well-documented

iami, Tel

Napier, Aviv,

Manhattan,

Mumbai,

offices,

churches,

private

but I wondered if it could be part of

international strongholds of surviving ‘Art

centre, the aforementioned bus stop, a

an

Deco’ architecture. Browse the relevant

structures, just waiting to be celebrated?”

zoo and a water tower.

section of any self-respecting bookshop, and you’ll usually find at least one publication covering the more celebrated inter-war structures of a given city or architect. Look beyond the icons of the period though, and a sea of equally beautiful structures emerges. Small towns staked their claim on the modernist revolution by encouraging sharp new additions to the urban fabric (sometimes, in the most unlikely locations).

Nearly a century on, much of what was built during the period remains, but is

undiscovered

treasure-trove

of

With this is mind, he set out to document Worcestershire’s built Art Deco legacy. “To say the county is not noted for its 1930s architecture, is a gross understatement.

It’s so far off the radar that most examples are totally unknown outside their immediate localities”.

Diving head first into the project, the following 12 months were dedicated to

researching,

photographing

and

compiling a dossier of all the suitable

far too often neglected, having been

candidates. Some had been beautifully

considered insignificant nationally, and

preserved or restored, whilst others have

unworthy of investment. At local levels

seen unsympathetic modernisation, with

though, a huge swell of affection often

a few remaining only in photographs,

exists for these survivors, the instantly

having been demolished years ago.

recognisable relics of a specific and intoxicating period of our recent past.

The project was a labour of love for Philip, fitting in excursions and nights in front

Malvern based Art Deco aficionado and

of the computer around his work and

blogger Philip Butler, has always been

family life. Travelling all over, including

a curious admirer of the unusual war

areas that were once, but are no longer

memorial bus shelter in the Barnards Green

part of Worcestershire, he photographed

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

The fruits of the project can now be enjoyed in the new book ‘Streamline Worcestershire’. A limited edition 168 page A5 hardback book that pairs together

Philip’s

photographs

with

individual histories for each of the selected structures.

For and

more to

obtain

information, a

copy,

visit

www.streamlineworcestershire.com

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Apprenticeships at Evesham College

START YOUR CAREER

E

vesham College is geared around training facilities that reflect real workplace settings, providing learners

• Gain job specific skills

has been built to provide trained employees

• Earn a regular salary

for the region and fill the skills gaps within

• Get a recognised industry qualification

the engineering industry in Worcestershire.

of all ages with the skills they need. And we’ll

• Enhance future career prospects

The centre will provide training facilities that

make sure that you can find a level of study

• Avoid university debt

reflect real workplace settings, giving the ideal

that’s right for you. There are many options available to young people after they leave school, and an apprenticeship is a great option as a key route into a successful career.

Are you an employer?

Employ an apprentice We offer employers a bespoke solution that makes it easy to take on and up-skill

Apprenticeships at Evesham

apprentices. We handle all administration

• Engineering Level 2 & 3

and training arrangements, as well as

• Motor Vehicle Level 3

mentoring each apprentice so employers

• Welding and Fabrication Level 2

get the best results for their business and

• Plumbing and Heating Level 2 & 3

apprentices receive the best start to their

• Body Repair and Paint Level 2 & 3

career. Visit www.wcg.ac.uk/employers for

What is an apprenticeship?

more information.

An apprenticeship is a real job with training.

• Fill your skills gaps and

You can earn while you learn, usually in

‘grow your own’ staff

environment for a successful start to a career in engineering. Equipment will include: • Robotic arms • 3D Modelling • CNC Machines • CAD Machines • CMM Machines • Metal lathes January Open days at our Worcestershire colleges Evesham College Thursday 25th January 2018 Pershore College

college for one day a week or on block release

• Flexible training to suit your business

Saturday 20th January 2018

from your employer. You will get a recognised

• Reduce staff turnover and improve

Malvern Hills College

qualification while being paid a wage.

An apprenticeship is a great option if

productivity • Funding available for staff development

you want to learn valuable skills and gain

New Engineering Centre soon to

knowledge that employers want you to

be launched

have, all while gaining a solid foundation

A new state-of-the-art engineering centre

of real full-time work experience.

will soon be opening at Evesham College, it

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Tuesday 23rd January 2018 Register your place at an open day at www.wcg.ac.uk/opendays

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A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT EASTBANK COURT & LODGE to

Eastbank

opportunities

Court to

and

having

socialise

with

likeminded individuals can combat that. Many of our homeowners have developed firm friendships with their new neighbours and say that their lifestyle has changed for the better.

They still have the privacy of owning their own home – either in the main complex or in neighbouring Eastbank Lodge – and can access facilities including a salon, library, activities room and even a licensed restaurant.

“There’s also the reassurance of the support of friendly staff around the

Eastbank Court is a hive of activity with a thriving social scene that enables homeowners to spend time in good company

O

lder people in Worcester won’t have to worry about being lonely this winter with a move to

Eastbank Court and Lodge.

Research by Gransnet.com suggests that 75% of older people are lonely and more than half of them have never spoken about it.

A move to one of Aspen Retirement’s

clock. With so much to offer it’s no

final apartments at Eastbank Court and Lodge could make a difference as

surprise that we only have a few apartments left.”

the luxury development boasts hotel-

One and two-bedroom apartments are

style communal facilities and is a hive of

available from £187,950 – or from only

activity with a thriving social scene that

£150,360 with the Aspen Assist shared

enables homeowners to spend time in

equity scheme. There’s also a ‘live free’

good company.

for a year package that could save

Aspen’s

Glenys

Bastin

says:

“Older

homeowners more than £6,000.

people can feel lonely all year round,

For details call 01905 455 182 or email

not just at Christmas, but moving

eastbank.court@aspenretirement.co.uk.

Rudy the Reindeer Book Launch

H

elen Wendy Cooper, best known for The Vegetarian Vampire book series and Shape Land, has been

on the 2nd of December, a week of

celebrating her latest book release, Rudy

many schools including Astley Primary,

the Reindeer, at Kidderminster Library.

Sychampton

work shops at Cob House Country Park from the 16th of December and visiting

This year she has enjoyed being a judge for CITV’s Share a Story programme,

Primary

and

Rudy the Reindeer has been sponsored

reading hundreds of short stories written

by Cob House Country Park (owners

by children all over the country.

Helen and Robert Taylor) in Wichenford,

Helen says, “I’m really excited about having

little mouse), Rudy gets into trouble and

my new book launched at Kidderminster

can’t ride Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve.

library. It’s a beautiful building and I have

Santa and the reindeer go to deliver the

always visited it with my three year old

presents but a storm causes the sleigh to

daughter. I’m looking forward to visiting

crash. Their only hope is Rudy, but will he

some local schools too.”

be able to save them and all the presents

Rudy the Reindeer lives at Cob House

Endowed

Heathfield Knoll School.

in time for Christmas?

Worcestershire.

With

beautiful

surroundings, the general public can meet, stroke and feed Rudy and his family of reindeer!

Rudy the Reindeer can be purchased from all online retailers or order at your local bookstore, ISBN 978-178456-524-4.

Country Park with his reindeer family.

Helen is doing Christmas workshops for

Signed copies can be brought for £4.99

Along with his best friend Spike (a cheeky

the Mistletoe festival in Tenbury Wells

from www.helenwendycooper.co.uk

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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homestyle

Confluences sofa available from Insitu

statement

chairs

Statement chairs add life to a room by being a centrepiece that accents the rest of the decor. When people enter the room, their eyes are drawn to it. Statement chairs are usually uniquely shaped, colourful, or highly elegant. Regardless of their design, they are meant to be appealing and stylish.

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ÂŻ January 2018

>>

'

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homestyle

Harlow Armchair

B 14

y adding a statement chair

room. For an even greater effect,

Types of Chairs to Select From

to a room, the overall design

people can purchase two or three

The purpose of a statement chair is

of the living space can

of the same chair. However, having

to draw attention to itself without

feel more complete. The

several different styles of statement

overdoing it. When looking for one,

nice thing about statement chairs

chairs will just make the room feel

the first step is to choose the type

is that they are both decorative

cluttered and confusing. This guide

of chair. The more unique it is, the

and functional. They provide extra

will help buyers locate and select

more of a statement it will make.

seating for family and guests while

a statement chair that is perfectly

However, regular chairs can also

still adding a design feature to the

fitted to their living space.

draw

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ÂŻ January 2018

attention.

The

information

>>

MALVERN CURTAINS In-Home Consultation Service

Clients have praised Ellen’s experience and advice, commenting that her ‘in home consultation service’ is ‘just what they were looking for’. From a varied selection of fabrics, clients can perfectly match colours to complement existing décor.

Ellen will visit your home to help you choose your fabric, measure up and fit bespoke curtains, blinds and rails.

Changing your window dressing, either with curtains, blinds or adding a pelmet, can alter the whole look of a room, and Malvern Curtains offer a full service from start to finish.

As a long established business, which she previously ran for 20 years from her Malvern shop, Ellen provides experience and uncompromising quality and Malvern Curtains’ clients have returned to see Ellen again and again.

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homestyle

Chairs by Arlo & Jacob

16

below defines the different types of

maximize the look, purchase these in

people; find pillows that accent the

chairs as well as lists which ones are

sets of two or three.

fabric for the best overall effect -

more unique.

Unique rating – low

Unique rating – high

Arm chairs are simple, comfortable,

A chair and a half is very unique

The chaise longue is both elegant

and functional as well as heavily

because of its size; it is wider than

and unique; in ancient times only the

cushioned with armrests; to make a

a regular chair, but smaller than

wealthy and royalty had them; a long

statement, these need to be made

a loveseat; it is modern, perfect

chair that extends out to support the

with attention-grabbing fabric; to

for lounging, and can still seat two

legs and feet without the use of an

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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homestyle

ottoman; make excellent centrepieces

Recliners are the classically comfortable

Wing chairs are common, but fancy;

especially if they are bought in a colour

chairs; are very common so it is harder

if decorating an elegant room, these

that is separate from the other furniture,

to turn them into a statement piece; shop

can

but still flow with the room décor.

for high quality leather with decorative

upholstered with an upright back and

Unique rating – medium

accents to make them stand out more.

wings that protrude from the side;

Unique rating – low

sometimes they have ornately carved

Club chairs are a fancier version of the arm chair; features a low back, a good

Slipper chairs are modern; characterized

amount of cushion, and armrests; often

by being upholstered and having no

has nailhead trim on the armrests and

armrests; since these are fairly simple

back; works best as statement chairs

chairs, they work best in groups.

when bought in groups of two or three.

Unique rating – medium

Unique rating – low

Tub chairs are also modern; features

be

perfect

statement

chairs;

wooden claw feet.

Unique rating – medium Where to Shop for Statement Chairs Since statement chairs are generally unique, visits to your local independent retailer are more likely to yeild your

Minimal Chair - These chairs embody

a back and armrests that are one

the statement that less is more; range

continuous piece; the back is rounded

in shapes and styles but they have no

around the cushion and sometimes

statement chairs to draw the eye to

armrests and usually no back; usually

slopes downwards towards the front to

a particular range or lead your eye

they are a half-circle shape or something

create the armrests; simple and unique,

through the showroom. Of course

similar that still supports the body without

but their comfort level is usually pretty

the perfect chair maybe found at an

having a defined back or armrests; unique

low; if purchasing solid fabrics, buy them

auction or vintage shop , then your local

designs makes them good statement

in a group; striped or pattern upholstered

upholstery company can fully refurbish

chairs, but their comfort can vary.

tub chairs can be statement chairs on

it in new fabric.

Unique rating – high

their own. Unique rating – high

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

perfect chair. They themselves use

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homestyle

TABLE MANNERS Good table manners have long been a source of national pride, but they have taken quite a knock in the past few years.

F

irst, Bill Bryson criticised our lack of tipping.

To counteract this worrying trend, we have compiled

Now, traditionalists will be shocked to hear, a

a guide to etiquette for those who have adopted the

new survey has suggested our manners are

American way:

going the American way. The dining habits of

those across the Atlantic seem to have reached our shores, and the worst habit we have picked up from

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1. The knife is held in the right hand, the fork in the left - this is non-negotiable

our American friends is using a knife and fork the

2. A spoon should be held with your right hand. You

wrong way. The main perpetrators, according to the

should eat off the side of the spoon too, rather

survey by search engine Ask Jeeves, are the younger

than at a right angle to your mouth

generation. Around a third of the under-30s surveyed

3. Keep your elbows off the table

use their fork with their right hand - going against

4. Look people in the eye when saying hello

British traditions.

5. Keep your phone out of sight at the dinner table

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homestyle

and even away from the table don't text while

Debretts A-Z Modern Manners

speaking to people

for full table ettiquette but the following is a brief

6. Your wine glass should never be filled more than halfway to allow the wine space to breathe when you swirl it (which, of course, you should be doing) 7. If you there are two wine glasses before you,

introduction.

Laying the Table Whether it is a formal dinner or a much more casual

choose the smaller for white wine. Red wine

occasion, the basic rules do not vary when laying

glasses also have shorter stems so the heat from

the table. Give each person as much elbow room as

your hand warms up the wine

the table permits. Leave an even amount of space

8. Use the side plate on your left for bread rolls

between places. Knives and spoons go on the right,

9. If you are eating from a bowl, never lift the bowl

forks on the left. The idea is always to work from the

up from the table 10. Wait until everyone is served before you start eating 11. Don't talk with your mouth full and try not to eat too noisily. According to Debretts, this is the

outside in. Formally, it is correct always to lay side plates – even if they are not going to be used – with the napkins simply folded on them.

Knives, Forks and Spoons

cardinal dining crime. "Nothing is more likely to

The basics are large and small knives, large and small

get you noticed and promptly blacklisted," says its

forks, teaspoons, dessert (pudding) spoons and forks,

guide to table manners.

and tablespoons. There may be small blunt knives

12. Place your cutlery in the middle of your plate to signal you have finished eating

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is a great source

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

for butter, fish knives, soup spoons and extra small spoons for coffee, or for salt and mustard. Some

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homestyle

plates are ten inches or a little more for dinner plates (main course), eight inches for pudding plates and six inches for side plates. With so many contemporary designs and shapes

`The world was my oyster but I used the wrong fork.’ ¯ Oscar Wilde

available this is just a guide, not a rule.

Using Cutlery The fork and spoon are the only things that should go into the mouth. Never lick the knife or eat off it. If using a knife and fork together, always keep the tines of the fork pointing downwards and push the food on to the fork. It may be necessary to use mashed potato to make peas stick to the fork but it is incorrect to turn the fork over and scoop. There

people have different shaped spoons for soup and pudding, but cutlery design is not standard. If the dessert spoons are

are foods that are eaten with just a fork, including some pasta and some fish. In this case use the fork in the right hand and

very small, then traditionally tablespoons are used for the

have the tines up, more like a spoon. When finished, the knife

soup. Teaspoons are also for tea and coffee, or for eating

and fork (with tines facing upwards) or spoon etc are placed

grapefruit or boiled eggs, for which you may sometimes find

on the plate in a six-thirty position.

a type with a more pointed shape.

Spoon and Fork

Plates and Bowls

Always eat puddings with a spoon and fork (both should

Soup should be served in shallow bowls. Pudding, unless

always be laid); the spoon should be a dessert spoon. Ice

there is a lot of sauce, is served on small plates. A special

cream may be eaten with a teaspoon, or a long teaspoon

dessert service with a decorative pattern may be used, or the

if served in a tall glass. Sorbet, served between courses, is

same plates as the first course. The traditional diameters of

eaten with a teaspoon.

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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25

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Jackdaw © Wendy Carter

DANCING DAWS There’s nothing quite like a big gathering of jackdaws and rooks as darkness falls...

I

was driving home shortly before dusk recently and

When their breeding seasons are over in late spring and

noticed a stream of large black birds flying over the

early summer they gather together in larger and larger

road. I followed them as best I could. They headed

flocks, searching for food by day and suitable night-time

to a woodland that I know holds a rookery; rookeries

roosting places in trees. Both will happily forage in fields

are re-used for nesting each spring and these birds

for worms and insects so it makes sense that birds with

seemed to be using an adjacent part of the woodland

similar tastes and needs would seek the company of

as a night-time roost. On nearby telegraph wires and

each other and, let’s face it, there is safety in numbers.

in surrounding fields, numbers were growing and noise

These are birds that hang around until the very last light

levels were increasing; the sharp chatter of the jackdaws

of dusk is disappearing before heading for the trees –

contrasting wonderfully with the deeper, throatier calls

more pairs of eyes on the lookout for predators such

of the rooks. A few years ago I visited a well-known rook

as foxes, can make all the difference to survival. When

and jackdaw winter roost of more than 20,000 birds – a

in the air, studies have shown that jackdaws fly closer to

phenomenal experience when they fly over your head as darkness falls!

Jackdaws and ravens both belong to the Corvidae, a family of birds known for their intelligent behaviour from crows that have learned to get car wheels to crack open nuts for them to eat on a traffic-lit road crossing to rooks using rudimentary tools to ‘fish’ food from hard to reach nooks and crannies.

Rooks and their smaller jackdaw cousins are gregarious, nesting in large colonies. Look to the tops of trees as you go through Worcestershire’s countryside and the

that birds are often seen flying much closer to one other individual, presumably their partner. We may never know what other functions these gatherings have but I feel fairly certain that if I were meeting up with friends and relatives at the end of a day’s feeding, I’d be swapping stories about where the best food was...or perhaps I’d be keeping that piece of information all to myself?

Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

see in a cluster of trees will give the game away – you’ve

MORE INFORMATION

found a rookery. Jackdaws nest in chimney pots and

Keep up to date with us...

holes in trees, old buildings and cliffs; not quite in the

• on Twitter @WorcsWT

same numbers as rooks but I’ve seen many pairs nesting

• on Facebook worcestershirewildlifetrust

groupings of bundles of sticks that you’ll sometimes

relatively close to each other where hole-space allows.

26

jackdaws and rooks tend to lead the way; it also appears

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

• our events www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on

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27

BEAUTIFUL

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

CHANEL

ELEMIS

COLOR WOW

Chanel introduces the

Pro-collagen perfect duo. A magnificently

Dream Coat, inspired by

Limited Edition N°5

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Fragments D’or 250ml

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waterproofing cloak. Heat-

while subtly perfuming it

Cream 50ml and Pro-Collagen Oxygenating

activated polymer works

with the iconic fragrance of

Night Cream 50ml.

to compress, tighten and

the House.

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£115.00

seal hair strands. Hair is supernaturally-sleek, smooth and super-silky.

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

DHC

CLARINS

ESTEE LAUDER

DHC Astaxanthin Collagen

An innovative cream-to-

A rich body cream that hydrates,

All-in-One Gel tones, hydrates,

powder formula, that

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brightens while fighting free

offers the comfort and

delicate scent of a luxurious Tuberose

radical damage. It features

smoothing effect of a

blend, which complements both the

super antioxidant astaxanthin,

cream with the fine quality

Tuberose Le Jour and Tuberose Le

a vitamin-like substance

and hold of a powder.

Soir fragrances.

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The new rich iridescent

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midnight blue shade

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£19.00

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Stockist Details: Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www. timetospa.co.uk. Color WOW - www.colorwowhair.com. DHC - www.dhcuk.co.uk.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Estee Lauder - 0870 034 2566 - www.esteelauder.co.uk.

BEAUTIFUL

29

BEAUTiful

FROM FADING IN THE BACKGROUND

TO BECOMING A STYLE GURU 49 year old Jane Brook from Worcester used to consider herself terribly shy and had at one point lost much of her confidence and sense of who she was...

B

ut Jane has now transformed herself into a colour

“I was an overweight middle aged single mum who has

and style House of Colour consultant, who enjoys

completely changed just about every part of my life and

professional speaking to large audiences and is

I now make the best of myself every day. Changing how

metamorphosing the lives of many to help them

I look on the outside changed how I feel on the inside

become more positive, confident and vibrant. This month in

and I have gone from a place of low confidence and poor

fact Jane won a top consultant prize and was crowned the

self-esteem to helping other women and men look good

3rd top stylist across scores of experienced stylists at House

and feel great.”

of Colour.

During her period of low self-esteem Jane’s friend persuaded

In 2006 Jane and her husband decided to divorce and she

her to have her colours analysed and she was astounded

realised that her identity was based on her roles solely as

by the difference it made to her appearance and her

mum and a wife and she didn’t know who she was anymore.

confidence and suddenly people kept telling her how well

She was working in accountancy, her size had crept up to

she looked. After her hours at work were cut her daughter

16, she wore a lot of black, and in her words, she “faded into

Milly suggested Jane chose a new job and one that she would

the background”. Roll on 11 years and Jane is unrecognisably

really enjoy and 4 months later she had her own franchise

different as a confident, vibrant businesswoman.

with House of Colour. Today Jane is now one of the premier

30

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

>>

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31

BEAUTiful

House of Colour in Business Brand Specialists and is so highly

and I re-evaluated every area of my life as I came to

respected within House of Colour that she has acted as style

terms with cancer. Having colour analysis really boosted

development consultant to two of the Directors!

my self-confidence as I now know what colours suit me

Jane has about 1000 clients – 50 per cent are business men

but also what styles make the best of my new shape!

and women who want to look better and be more visible

“Jane was wonderful especially in the wardrobe session

within their company and industry. “To do this job well you

where she worked with me to put my existing clothes

have to be honest but also many of my clients have low self-

into new outfits, complete with accessories and shoes,

esteem, like I used to have, and so you need to be able to

bags, belts etc. I realized why all those things I’d bought

boost your client’s morale, not knock their confidence. I love

but didn’t feel good in was because they were completely

to see the change in people when they are wearing colours

wrong for my personality style! I now get compliments

and styles that suit them rather than mistakenly disguising

from complete strangers about my colours and style! I

what makes them look and consequently feel good.”

love the fact that I can have fewer clothes but more outfits

One of Jane’s clients, Esther Partridge-Warner, 51 works as a

by mixing and matching, and changing accessories.

marketing consultant and in January 2015 found a pea-sized

“From a work perspective, I am now building a portfolio

lump in her right breast and was diagnosed with breast cancer.

of companies that I'm working with on a variety of sales

Due to the location and the type of cancer she was advised to

and marketing projects and my new wardrobe allows me

have a complete mastectomy on her right side and she also

to move seamlessly from one to the other.”

opted for an immediate reconstruction using her back muscle.

Contact Janebrook on 07970 293341 or

“I never thought it would be me getting breast cancer

email: jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk

and it took me a year to heal, physically, psychologically

www.houseofcolour.co.uk

and emotionally. My world view has completely changed

32

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Luxury Lingerie, Swimwear and Nightwear Catchment areas: Solihull, Central Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Warwick & Worcester

Hand Clinic PA: Pam Dziubany Email: pdziubany@hotmail.com Call: 01827 892952 or 07815 460786 All patients welcome whether you have private medical insurance or you are self-paying Midland Hand Clinic lead by Mr G Shyamalan FRCS NHS consultant hand surgeon.

www.midlandhandclinic.com

Cup sizes A to K Beautiful Christmas Present Ideas Full Advice Given Free Gift Wrapping Service 23 Reindeer Court, Worcester

Tel: 01905 619031

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

33

BEAUTiful

FESTIVE TIPS FOR MEN How to avoid the embarrassing Christmas jumper Have fun with colour Reindeer Face Jumper from Topman

You’re not at work, so Christmas is the perfect time to experiment with colour. Again, it doesn’t have to be loud.

You’re after the beautifully tuned harmony, not a cacophony.

Your best impact colour, combined with a seasonal neutral, allows for all sorts of wearable options - a T-shirt and jumper combo, a shirt with contrasting buttons, impact colour within a pattern.

To give you some ideas, here are some impact/neutral combinations that will always work: Contrasting colours are great, try raspberry or chinese blue with navy as your neutral or try either damson or burgundy with charcoal.

If you prefer softer hues, try powder blue or duck egg with dark blue grey as the neutral or smoked grape or cherry with French navy.

T

here’s lots to get excited about at this time of year - Christmas parties, presents, mulled wine, sparkly lights… But there’s a downside to festive traditions the men’s Christmas jumper.

Now don’t get the wrong idea. We’re not going to shout `Bah humbug’ at every man sporting a red-nosed reindeer on his chest… even when the aforementioned nose is flashing on and off beneath a pair of novelty antlers.

Festive fun is what it’s all about, but there are alternatives to the embarrassing Christmas jumper. Here are a few ideas…

Or add some splashes of colour to a great neutral, try geranium red or turquoise with tan or try leaf green or bright navy with dove grey.

Rich tones include either moss or kingfisher with dark brown as your neutral or try mustard or light olive with dark olive.

Whatever your preference, if you want to avoid the Christmas colour cliche, then red and green are probably best left for the tree.

Festive grooming You’ve avoided the dodgy Christmas jumper look and your colours are all sorted, but there’s still one thing that can sabotage your look - personal grooming. Make sure you are

The Christmas shirt

using a good quality face wash and moisturiser and condition

With shirts, it’s all in the detail. An Italian collar, for example,

that beard if you have one!

with a contrasting colour or pattern on the inside, is a really classy way to add festive colour and personality.

Look out for contrasting stitching on cuffs and collars. It’s the kind of subtle detail that stands out amidst all those woolly Santas.

When it comes to detailing, buttons are your secret weapon.

It could be colour, pattern or texture… Shirt buttons speak volumes without shouting about it.

34

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Look great, feel great and have a colourful Christmas!

MORE INFORMATION Colour Analysts & Personal Style Consultants jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk charlotte.scriven@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk

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

35

BEAUTiful

TIPS FOR 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’. remember you’re still at work

something that’s wildly inconsistent with

perceived authority. In short, you’ll appear

This isn’t like other Christmas parties.

your everyday work look. Understated

competent and in control when you wear a

You’re not letting loose with friends

elegance will always beat the wacky or the

moderate amount of make-up. However, if

or family and regardless of how much

risqué when it comes to work parties.

you go overboard with the glam look, your

you enjoy yourself, it’s important to think beyond the event. The image you

Remember, someone is bound to take a

perceived trustworthiness diminishes.

photograph. If in doubt, go for an outfit

Again, this is a bit depressing. Evidently,

that you’re happy to have shared on social

books are still judged by their covers, but

media for your boss to see, and your

it’s worth knowing – and it means choosing

conversations for the next 6 months. So

future boss, and the boss after that...

your work party make-up strategically.

how do you tread that fine line between

Consistency is key. As a general rule, think

present to your work colleagues will stick with them, and you don’t want to be the subject of whispered water-cooler

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

about what you’d normally wear to work but with added sparkle and glamour. The easiest way to glam up a daytime work

Don’t reveal too much flesh You know that old adage about showing off either cleavage or legs, not both? It’s a good one to bear in mind when choosing

outfit is to accessorise - especially handy if your Christmas party is immediately after work because the new look can fit

Go for subtly alluring eyes teamed up with your best red lipstick. You’ll exude confidence without looking overly made up. A hint of bronzer on the collar bones or shoulders is a great way to add subtle illumination – a bit of glitz and subtle sparkle without exposing too much flesh.

neatly into your handbag or briefcase.

You’ll probably need to refresh your

For example, with a slightly higher heel or

mineral foundation into your compact

elegant stilettos you can quickly transform a

and load up a retractable lip brush with

work suit into a stunning evening look. And

your favourite lipstick. That way, they’re

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

let’s face it, an amazing pair of statement

ready to whip out when you’re feeling a

great way to look elegantly gorgeous while

earrings will have far more impact than a

bit sweaty (sorry, glowing a bit too much).

maintaining a professional image. And even

pair of flashing Christmas trees.

a party outfit for your work do. It may sound unfair, but the amount of skin you reveal is in inverse proportion to the amount of authority you’ll project.

better, lace is bang on trend at the moment.

really

easy

professional

to

credibility

yourself at your Christmas work do. But be

with the make-up

yourself within reason. Have fun, let loose,

your

A recent Harvard study has revealed that

enjoy the party – and look your fabulously

wearing

make-up sends a strong signal about your

confident, professional best.

sabotage by

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

36

In the end, there’s nothing wrong with being

Don’t go overboard

be consistent It’s

make-up during the party, so pop a

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

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Change the way you drink

‘I don’t think I’m an alcoholic but I need to do something about my drinking’ ‘I don’t know why I drink so much, but I always regret it the next day” ‘I don’t want to do this anymore, but I don’t know how to change” Is this you? If so it could be beneficial for you to seek some advice.

If you a ready to make a change and want advice & support you can make an appointment to see Julie Ward. She offers a FREE 45 minute consultation for anyone who wants to join her to talk about how her service could help.

Julie Ward

Director, Alcohol Specialist

Louise O’Malley Alcohol Counsellor

Tel: 01527 878162 or text ‘ACT APPOINTMENT’ to 07434 286826 Email: julie@actalcohol.co.uk “If you want to talk about your drinking with a professional in a confidential environment, then this is the perfect choice for you. We will help you change the way you drink for good”

www.actalcohol.co.uk

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37

Worcestershire’s

Best Kept Secret An exclusive and unique, results driven fitness centre on the outskirts of Bromsgrove is opening up its fully equipped private studios to offer small group personal training within its luxury surroundings.

P

erpetual Wellbeing Fitness Centre, on the Kidderminster

suit each individuals abilities and goals offering advice, support

Road, produces amazing results from one to one personal

and guidance to every member.

training, with huge weight losses and great improvements

in body shape, tone, fitness and strength.

With a wide range of affordable one to one and group sessions including general fitness, high intensity workouts, pre and post

And now it’s your chance to achieve your personal fitness goals

natal care and dedicated 60ish groups, Perpetual Wellbeing

in this private, fun and friendly environment working one to one,

Fitness Centre is dedicated to putting the personal back into

with a partner, friend, or in a small group.

personal training.

Fully qualified expert personal trainers will tailor the workouts to

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www.perpetualwellbeing.co.uk

38

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

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39

weddings

A Guide to Your Winter Wedding Winter is arguably the most romantic time of year. Find out how to make your winter wedding extra special,

W

and how to make the most of getting married at such a wonderful time of year. inter is an exceptionally beautiful time

and photographers will offer a discount for getting

to get married. Think snow, fairy lights

married in winter. Shopping around can save you

and that magical feeling of Christmas

a lot of money, but ensure not to compromise on

time. Think serving warm mulled wine,

quality for a bargain.

and making wedding-themed crackers for your tables. Think Christmas trees and roaring log fires.

40

Think Seasonally Having a winter wedding offers a great opportunity

Choose Suppliers Carefully

to get creative with your catering. Warm, hearty

Because the winter months are generally less

dishes like casseroles and sticky toffee pudding or

popular for weddings than the summer months,

fruit crumble will go down very well with your guests

many suppliers, including venues, florists, caterers

and make a great change from standard wedding

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ÂŻ January 2018

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41

weddings

Think snow, fairy lights and that magical feeling of Christmas time.

food. It is not just the wedding breakfast you can get creative for however, think of seasonally-themed reception drinks, such as warm mulled wine, rather than Pimms, and at your evening buffet, serve mince pies instead of cupcakes.

Decoration Winter offers the chance to make the decoration for your wedding extremely beautiful. Enquire with your chosen venue whether there will be a Christmas tree, if your wedding is close to Christmas time.

Speak to your florist about seasonal flowers, such as Snowdrops and Camellias. Think about silver and white table decorations, chair covers, centre pieces and crockery. You can take this a step further, with ice sculptures and other large decorations for your room, if you have the budget. There really is no limit to the ways in which to make your winter wedding beautiful.

Fairy lights make a great, wintery addition to your decoration, and will enhance the magic of your special day. You could even take it a step further and have miniature Christmas trees for your centrepieces, perhaps even with small favours wrapped like Christmas presents underneath.

Favours Choose winter-themed favours. Silver, weddingthemed crackers are a great idea, and you can buy the equipment to make them yourself. Likewise, you could compile miniature Christmas stockings or give personalised Christmas tree decorations. Think about imagery such as snowflakes, robins and snowy winter scenes. You can create a magical Christmasesque feel without having to have Santa’s face or the nativity scene everywhere you turn.

42

we are at our coldest, so you can book your fantasy honeymoon and dazzle your friends with your tan when you get home. Ensure to ask your travel agent what the best locations are for the time of your honeymoon.

If you are looking to do something a little different, why not jet off for a city break? London, Dublin,

Your Honeymoon

New York, Paris and other cities are at their most

Just because you are getting married during winter,

beautiful in winter. Your city honeymoon will

it doesn’t mean that you can’t have a traditional

provide a great opportunity to shop, ice-skate

beach and spa honeymoon. Many locations around

and curl up by a roaring fire. What could be more

the world are at their warmest time of year while

romantic than that?

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Romantic | Unique | Inspiring

Kidderminster Town Hall & Bewdley Museum

For futher information about Wyre Forest Heritage Weddings visit:

www.wyreforestheritageweddingfs.co.uk or speak to our Wedding Coordinator on

01562 732158 | 01562 732128 Email: joanne.bowkett@wyreforestdc.gov.uk

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43

Wedding Fayres - why bother?

Y

ou’ve got the ring on your

go to the fayre? No, if the date is not

National Wedding Fayres

finger and it’s now time to start

convenient just ring the wedding planner

These take place in major exhibition space

planning the big day but where

at the venue for a private tour. If you like

normally in Birmingham, Manchester and

do you start? Magazines and

the venue you can sort everything out

London. There’s no better place to see a

memories both good and bad of friends

in one visit taking their advice on their

wide variety of beautiful wedding dresses

and families events give a great starting

trusted suppliers.

than live on the runway. Large scale shows

point. These days visits to the obligatory wedding fayre has been a good place to see wedding businesses showcasing their products. The amount of different businesses to see varies depending on the type of fayre.

Regional Wedding Fayres These are larger with a much great number of suppliers and ideas to look at.

Usually these are organised by specialist wedding fayre companies. You don’t have the security that the venue has

will always have a fantastic runway, with top bridal boutiques showcasing the year’s most sought after designs and elegant classics, in a choreographed showcase that shows you a wide variety of dresses. There are also great for collecting free samples and watching demonstrations. Should you go? They are

Local Wedding Fayre

worked with them before so make sure

This is akin to choosing a private school

you take up the references from former

for your child. At these, the venue will be

clients. Organising your wedding should

promoting themselves and their usual

be taken as seriously as interviewing a

there unless you can resist the free prosecco

wedding suppliers. This is great if you

prospective member of staff. Should I

in the dress boutiques and hen and stag

want to look around a venue without

go? This depends on how far you are with

event sellers stands. Remember to look very

any pressure but your options are often

your planning. These are great places to

carefully at any special offers that you ‘have’

limited in the supplier businesses you

browse and look for ideas especially for

to purchase that day. Although WiFi is often

will speak to. These are usually organised

entertainment and activities that are

free some comparison sites will not load

by the venue themselves. Do I have to

fairly local to your home.

whilst at the event.

44

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

great fun to visit with your bridesmaids , the ideas for the hen do are vast. Don’t drive

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45

FOOD & DRINK

Seasonal

Roast Venison

by Churchfields Saltworks

While it’s more typical to serve up turkey and ham, or even goose at Christmas, a great alternative for the festive period is venison. Whether dished up as a roast, in a hearty pie or sumptuous stew, the versatility of the venison makes it an interesting option to impress guests over the festive period.

Here, Gillian from Churchfields Saltworks in Worcestershire shares a much-loved family recipe for Roast Venison Haunch – a simple dish, which goes perfectly with seasonal fruits such as cranberries to ooze that festive vibe.

Gillian is the co-founder of Churchfields Saltworks of Churchfields Farm, a family run dairy farm near Droitwich.

The farm is more commonly known for its award-winning icecream and frequently visited café, but more recently husband and wife team, Gillian and Will decided to launch Droitwich Salt - a unique and naturally delicious gourmet salt. The salt comes from naturally occurring brine springs beneath Droitwich, which the family have revived after almost a century.

Droitwich Salt is believed to be the purest salt available as it has never been subject to any form of pollution and is therefore inherently 100% natural.

Gillian is the fifth generation of the Davies family to work at the farm and explains that this recipe has been passed down from her mother Fizz, who regularly serves up venison over the festive period.

Churchfields Saltworks Salwarpe, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, WR9 0AH Tel: 01905 451 289 | Email: info@droitwichsalt.com www.droitwichsalt.com

46

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Ingredients

B 2kg Venison Haunch B 2 Carrots (diced) B 1 Onion (diced) B 2-3 Celery Stalks (diced) B 4 sprigs of Thyme B ½ pint of red wine B ½ pint of water B Sprinkle of cracked black pepper

B 2 teaspoons of ground Droitwich Salt Method: 1. Preheat your oven to 220°C 2. Layer the bottom of your roasting tin with the diced carrots, celery and onion 3. Sprinkle your venison haunch with cracked black pepper and a teaspoon of

ground Droitwich Salt and place on top of the diced vegetables 4. Pour over ½ pint of good red wine (set aside a glass to drink whilst roasting) 5. Add ½ pint of water and 4 sprigs of thyme 6. Roast covered for 20 mins, then lower the heat to 150°C for a further 60 minutes 7. Uncover and roast for an additional 20 minutes 8. Strain off the juices and thicken in a saucepan with a bit of flour for your gravy 9. Allow the venison to rest, loosely covered for 15-20 mins before carving 10. Season with the remaining Droitwich Salt before serving with roasted veg and colourful cranberries.

Revills Farm Shop & Farmhouse Café

Christmas Orders Now Being Taken!

Free Range Bronze Turkey, Goose, Duck, Chickens & Cockerels Barn-Reared White Turkeys Vegetable Boxes Christmas Hampers

Bourne Road, Defford, Worcestershire, WR8 9BS Tel: 01386 750466 www.revillsfarmshop.co.uk

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47

win a case of six bottles of Astley vineyard’s best-selling wines Established in 1971, Astley Vineyard is located just above the River Severn, 10 miles north of Worcester and enjoys the title of being one of the oldest in England. Planted by Michael Bache over 45 years ago, it was bought by the Haywood family in 2017.

A

stley Vineyard produces a

can book tours of the vineyard.

range of wines each year

Approaching the vines through a

from four grape varieties

beautiful wooded valley they can

grown on a single five acre

learn about how the vines are tended

field. Of these, the wines made from

over the course of a year, before

the kerner grapes, a type of Riesling,

returning to the Tasting Room to try

are unique to Astley. The kerner vines

a glass or two.

are over 45 years old and produce both a complex still dry wine and a delicious sparkling wine which has hints of mint and lemon sherbet. The remaining grapes are used as single varietal wines or blended to produce a range of white still wines. Many of the vintages have won multiple

As well as selling wine Astley Vineyard is now an official stockist of Dartington Crystal, England’s principal

producer

of

quality

glassware. The ethos of the business is to support local and English companies

whenever

possible.

awards over the years and some

Visitors to the shop can also buy gift

of the current range is stocked in

vouchers for wine or summer tours

London restaurants and hotels.

of the vineyard.

The Cellar Door shop and Tasting

The new owners of Astley Vineyard

Room which was relocated and

have big plans for their beautiful site

updated in 2017 provides a space

and hope to attract more visitors

where wine expert Chris Haywood

and customers.

guides visitors through the wine. Chris previously worked in Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge and has a passion for sharing his love of English wine.

During the summer months visitors

Hampstall Lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 0RU Tel: 01299 822907 www.astleyvineyard.co.uk

Competition To be in with a chance of winning a case of six bottles of Astley vineyard’s best-selling wines, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

What grape variety is unique to Astley Vineyard?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Astley Vineyard WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, ISSUE 173 Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 17th January 2018.

WORCESTERSHIRE Now

48

december 2017 ¯ January 2018

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Astley Vineyard please tick this box

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49

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas just isn't Christmas without mince pies UK shoppers purchase around 370 million of them over the Christmas period each year, with each of us scoffing 27 each.

But how many of us actually know how to make our own version? Mince pies aren't all that complicated to make but they

T

do taste different.

elegraph food writer Xanthe Clay says this is because “unlike shopbought, home-made pastry is made without sugar. I prefer to

Despite the name, mince pies, by

spirits and spices. Christine Cossins of

and large, don't actually contain any

the Award Winning Real Pie Company

mincemeat. Years ago they did, filled

“Our top tip to making the best

with a mixture of minced meat and suet.

mince pies is make the mix early

cook them with a high heat, which can

Nowadays the mince pie contains a

and gradually add each week a little

slightly caramelise the edges of the

mixture of chopped dried fruit (such as

Cointreau, Disaronno & Rum, makes a

filling, mitigating the sweetness further”

prunes, raisins, and currants), distilled

great tasting mince pie!”

The Taste Test

Lidl – Favorina mince pies - £1.59 for 12 A 5 star rating by consumers on the Lidl website. Light crumbly pastry, fruit filled to the top of the decorated lid. Our testers were not as fulsome as the reviews on the Lidl website but was the most budget pie.

HH Coop Mini Mince Pies - £2.00 for 9 Butter enriched pastry filled with spiced, zesty mincemeat lightly dusted with sugar. The mincemeat scoring highly but the pastry was a little hard. Maybe next year a little more butter and less palm oil might zoom them up the rankings.

HHH Tesco Finest – Mince Pies with Courvoisier VS Cognac - £2.00 for 6 The mincemeat is infused with cognac and port for a subtle alcoholic kick.

Our office tasters enjoyed the taste and texture of the pastry plus loved the look of them but the mincemeat texture was not as good.

HHHH Sainsburys Deep Filled Mince Pies - £1.10 for 6

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

We couldn’t see this offering restoring the drop in profits from Sainsbury.

With a soggy bottom, flavourless mincemeat. We were not sure that the calories would be worth it.

H Waitrose All Butter Mince Pies - £2.50 for 6 This lovely pie scored very highly for the taste and texture of both the pastry and the mincemeat. It was only pipped to top marks by a rather plain appearance. So if you buy these you might want to get your sugar dredger out or smother them with brandy butter.

HHHH Marks & Spencer – The Collection Mince Pies - £2.50 for 6 The crumbly, buttery pastry is dusted with icing and filled generously with brandy soaked raisins, clementine and glacé cherries for a jammy, sweet, zesty filling. It's finished with a pretty snowflake-topped star design. The office tasters loved this one. Full marks almost for appearance and highly scoring in the pastry taste.

HHHHH Aldi Specially Selected Cognac Steeped Mince Pies – £1.49 for 6 Whilst Cognac ‘steeped’ might be a bit of an exaggeration, the Aldi shoppers in the office were disappointed in this offering. Cheap is not always best.

HH

FOOD & DRINK

ground almonds, caster sugar and

According to etiquette expert William

eggs. Firstly I place the flour, the

Hansom, mince pies should never be

butter, and the ground almonds in a

eaten using a fork when eaten alone or be

large bowl and rub the ingredients together with my hands to achieve a crumbly consistency. Afterwards I will

when eating a mince pie. Your hands

all the ingredients together. Before

are fine, although make sure they are

serving, make sure the mince pie is

clean. Ideally, mince pies for a drinks

warm to achieve the full flavour of

party will be served gently warmed, but

spirit. Lightly sprinkle some caster sugar on top and optionally, serve with a glass of port wine or a scoop of ice

Head Chef has given us the following

“There is no need to use a pastry fork

add the sugar and continue mixing

the dried fruits, spices and distilled

Partridges, the Queen’s grocer who’s

served cold. Hanson told the MailOnline:

if eating at home you could serve them much warmer with gently melting ice cream, rum or brandy butter. Here, a

cream." For more information please visit

fork and spoon will be needed to avoid

www.partridges.co.uk

those mucky fingers.”

For an homemade look try Riverford Organic

So you have run out of time - Where to

Farmers - These rich, buttery little pies, baked in a wood-fired oven, have a festive filling of apples, plump vine fruit, citrus peel,

go for the best supermarket own brand mince pies? The team at NOW Magazines

flaked almonds and a slosh of brandy. Just

have munched through the Christmas

enjoy the very best mince pies: "Create

wonky enough to look homemade – ideal if

average consumption to bring you their

the pastry with flour, unsalted butter,

you want to pass them off as your own.

2017 taste test.

tips and tricks on how to create and

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

51

keeping active Start/Finish: The Walk starts atChaddesley Corbett Parish Church. Public Transport: Nearest Railway Stationsare atBromsgrove (6 miles) and Kidderminster (4 miles). Bus 42 links the two towns.Please check Traveline and local timetables when planning your day. Check times of last bus. Parking: Please street-park sensitively. Parking at ‘The Swan’ PH for larger groups who book coffee or lunches in advance. (01562) 777302. O/S Map: Explorer Map 219. Distance:5 miles. Shorter 3.5 miles route (see sketch map). Time: Allow 3 hours to do this walk. Note: The ‘shorter’ routeinvolves some lane walking but can be completed in a morning or afternoon. Allow for early onset of darkness in winter months.Refreshments: You are advised to take a picnic as there are limited refreshments at the garage on the main Road (A448). Coffee is served from 11am, lunch from noon until 3pm at ‘The Swan Inn’ PH (Larger groups can park here if partaking of coffee or lunch. (01562 777302). There is also ‘The Talbot Inn’ in the village (see sketch-map). There is also a tea-room in the village centre. Terrain: This walk is gently undulating with a few gradual climbs.

There are a fewstiles, gates, kiss-gates, footbridges andseveral short groups of steps making this walk unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Nearby ‘Bromsgrove’ and Kidderminster are ‘wheel-friendly’ towns. Boots are essential due to muddy areas.Comfortable ‘wellies’ are a good idea in winter (Winter Wellie Walk). History: The Church dates from Norman times with its flat roof later replaced and a spire added later still. There is a ‘squint’ in the wall so that the ‘lepers’ were able to peer through the wall towards the altar and take part in the service without passing on the disease. ‘The Holloway’ is an historic route cut down through the rocky outcrop centuries ago and used by the King (Charles II) and his troops fleeing from the last battlefield (behind ‘The Swan Inn’) in the ‘Battle of Worcester’. There is currently a water pipeline being laid through the area so please follow any path diversions that are still in place. The walk passes very close to Harvington Hall which is open to the public March to October (Wednesdays to Sundays) 11.30 to 16.30.

to ‘T’ junction. At opening in hedge, ‘right of way’ has been re-routed

1: The walk starts at the Parish Church (St.Cassian’s) just off A448at

left. Follow track tofar end offield turning right to narrow path that

entrance to Chaddesley Corbett. Walk up through village to ‘Swan Inn’.

2: Take footpath on right passing ‘Old Malt-house’ then left up

round edge of field to right. At corner turn left and atnext corner turn left again (keeping hedge on right) eventually joining another path where you turn left through metal kiss-gate onto Drayton Road.

4: Crossto Bridleway opposite. Walk through concrete blocks then between two hedgerows to reach junction with Tandy’s Lane at Woodhouse Farm.

5: (Note: short walk turns LEFT at Woodhouse Farm and goes along Tandy’s Lane,crosses Woodrow Lane and continues down ‘The Holloway’ to Point 10 at Chaddesley Corbett). The main walk turns right, through concrete blocks.The ‘right of way’ has been re-routed along this grass track with pylons marching across to goes left round fenced curve to exit on corner of Tandy’s Lane.

6: Turn left round corner and over stile on left. Cross field

steps and along road to corner. Turn right to footbridge over

towards pylon, aiming slightly right to kiss-gatethen via stiles and

Hockley Brook. Cross field to corner in hedge and walk up

paddocks to pass left of pylon. Walk to gate beyond and cross

gentle slope and round curve to next corner taking old track-

stile onto track turning left to reach Woodrow Lane.

way between two hedges. The path goes left up steps, passing

7: Turn right for 50 yards to path on left. From here to Chaddesley

coppice on left. Follow generous field margin to track, turn left

Corbett, you will follow Monarch’s Way. Cross stile and walk

along track and through gate onto Tanwood Lane.

parallel to A450 for nearly one mile. At corner the path goes

3: Cross lane and walk up field towards pylon with hedge on left.

straight on viastile andnarrow fenced section. At end of path

Continue to corner of field. Walk to right, keeping hedge on left, proceed

go over stile and diagonally left across paddock to far corner, through kiss-gate, up steps on left and right along edge of field.

Follow Monarch’s Way until it widens into a track.

8: At corner, go straight on through gate for Harvington Hall or turn left along track to continue walk. At junction keep straight on. Keep following track to corner of field.

9: Go left then after 250 yards turn right along path, go down a few steps, through hedge on left and immediately right. (There may be diversions in place during installation of water pipeline).

You’ll see Spire of Chaddesley Corbett Church and village in valley below. Go down steps to track,turn leftalong driveway onto lane where you turn right. (Note: Shorter walk joins here from left).

10: Go down this ancient lane called ‘The Holloway’ into village of Chaddesley Corbett, passing ‘Swan Inn’ on right. Continue through village to end walk at Parish Church.

Written and illustrated by glynis dray

Chaddesley Corbett Circular 52

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

living history

the story of pershore Since Roman times salt was taken from the Droitwich area across the Avon.

This was the beginning of Pershore.

As you go down Bridge Street you will be able glimpse down some of the passages to see black and white Tudor buildings. On both sides of the road there were homes of many tradespeople each with their own story to tell. The tea warehouse was at the back of number 40, but in the 1930s the front housed the Midland headquarters of the British Union of Fascists! At the fifteenth century coaching inn, the Star, travellers were able to find respite. Here was stabling for 90 horses.

During the 1760s Judge Perrott built 17 Bridge Street, the elegant Perrott house and a house next door for his solicitor. Others followed his example. Each of these fine buildings has its individual fanlight. For the first part of the nineteenth John Goore, owned a coaching business at 29 Bridge Street, and in the early 20th century this house became the private school attended by Barbara Cartland, the romantic novelist. The Spiers family at 31 Bridge Street were basket makers, employing up to 30

M

uch depended on the availability of a transport system. There has been a bridge

people to make ‘pot hampers’ for transporting fruit. The four ‘P’s printed on the hampers stood for ‘Pershore produce perfectly packed.’ The workers’ interpretation

over the river since the end of the thirteenth

was ‘Pershore people poorly paid.’

century. It seemed that Pershore Bridge

Perhaps the presence of more than thirty pubs over the

often needed repairing. The most notable event was during the Civil War on 6th June, 1644, when the central arch was destroyed by Royalists in retreat. Sadly many of their own men were drowned in the river. The red sandstone repair can still be seen today.

The Abbey, founded in A.D. 689, continued to exist until the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Pershore people raised £400 pounds to buy the Monks’ quire for use as their parish church. It is thanks to them that this magnificent Abbey still exists. Throughout the centuries Pershore residents have continued to contribute to the success of Pershore and its amenities. It was in 1893 that a local wool merchant, Charles Ganderton left £500 to fund a local hospital provided the local people raised another £500 with donations. With the encouragement of Florence Nightingale, no less, the hospital was built and officially opened 1895. More recently local inhabitants worked long and hard to establish Number 8, the acclaimed Arts Centre.

centuries indicated a bustling market town and no safe drinking water. There was no mains sewerage until 1931.

Seven of the pubs were in Bridge Street! Within living memory gypsy women were seen sitting outside the Millers Arms, puffing at their clay pipes. The pub was a gambling den before 1961 when betting became legal.

The local policeman knew when to keep out of the way.

Broad Street is from the junction where Bridge Street becomes High Street. Before the nineteenth century a row of back to back houses, a collection of market stall and a shambles were sited here, in what is now the parking area.

This is where butchers displayed their meat and probably slaughtered their animals. The Royal Three Tuns hotel, at the corner of Bridge Street gained the prefix ‘Royal’ after princess Victoria called there with her mother, the Duchess of Kent, en route to Malvern. Unsurprisingly Queen Elizabeth 1 is thought to have stayed at the Angel Inn. After more than 1000 years Pershore continues to thrive! @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk

53

golden years

staying safe and healthy

this winter Getting ready for the cold weather means that you’re more likely to keep warm and well.

Here are some things you can do to make sure that you stay safe and ward off the winter chills.

I

f you’re exposed to a cold environment for a long time, or

up and walk around and spread out any chores throughout the

to extreme cold for only a short time, your blood pressure

day. If walking is difficult you can do chair- based exercises while

rises which means you could be at risk of a heart attack or

sitting or holding on to the back of a chair. Even moving your arms

stroke. To help you stay well, it’s important to keep warm,

and legs and wiggling your toes can help you keep warm. You can

follow as healthy a lifestyle as you can, and have a flu jab. To

watch videos online that demonstrate chair-based exercises by

find out more about following a healthy lifestyle see our free

visiting the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk).

guides Healthy living and Healthy eating

Eat well

Keep moving

Hot meals and drinks help to keep you warm, so eat at least one

Staying active is not only essential for your general wellbeing

hot meal each day and have hot drinks during the day. Having a

and fitness – it also generates heat and helps to keep you warm.

hot drink before going to bed and keeping one in a flask by your

When you’re indoors, try not to sit still for more than an hour. Get

bedside are good ideas. Include a good range of foods in your

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55

golden years

to carers and people under 65 who have conditions that make them susceptible to complications if they have flu. Ask your GP

Good hand hygiene is a simple way to prevent the spread of colds and flu.

or pharmacist if you think you’re eligible. It takes up to 10 days for the vaccine to take effect, so it’s best to have it as early as possible – most surgeries and pharmacists start to offer it in September or October. Your vaccinated arm may be sore, or you may have a slight temperature or aching muscles for a few days, but other side effects are rare.

diet and aim to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables each day, so that you’re getting plenty of nutrients and vitamins.

Frozen vegetables are as good as fresh. It’s important to eat enough, especially in winter. Not eating enough and becoming underweight is bad for your health as it makes it more difficult

Check you’ve had a ‘pneumo’ jab The ‘pneumo’ (or pneumococcal) jab is a one-off vaccination that helps protect you against pneumonia, meningitis and septicaemia (a type of blood poisoning). Ask your GP about it if you’re aged 65 and over, and haven’t had one.

to keep warm and fight infections. If you’re worried about a

Have good hand hygiene

poor appetite or losing weight, speak to your GP.

Good hand hygiene is a simple way to prevent the spread of

Have a seasonal flu jab If you’re aged 65 and over, the Government recommends that you have a flu jab. Flu viruses are always changing, so you need a jab every year, using the latest vaccine. Flu isn’t only

colds and flu. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and clean surfaces such as your telephone, door handles and keyboard to get rid of germs. Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

unpleasant, it can also develop into pneumonia, which can be

Consider taking a vitamin D supplement

serious. The flu jab is free to people aged 65 and over and also

Our bodies create vitamin D from sunlight when we’re

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57

golden years

outdoors. We need it for healthy bones, teeth and muscles. During

Keep your spirits up

the winter months in the UK the sun isn’t strong enough for our

It’s not unusual to feel down in winter – particularly when the

bodies to make vitamin D, and it’s difficult to get the amount we

days are short and it can get dark by 3.30pm. Try to keep to your

need from food alone. You might want to speak to your GP to

usual routine and if you can’t visit friends or family, make sure

discuss taking a supplement to boost your levels in winter.

you phone or Skype them regularly for a chat. If you’re feeling

Protect yourself against chilblains Chilblains are itchy, red swellings that occur when your skin gets cold and you try to warm up too quickly, often by sitting close to an open fire, a radiator or heater. Dab the swellings with calamine or witch hazel to reduce itching, but don’t scratch them as this could cause an infection. Speak to your pharmacist for advice on treating chilblains and see your GP if you get chilblains regularly or have diabetes. To help prevent chilblains, keep your whole body warm at all times – wear trousers, socks or thick tights and a scarf, hat and gloves whenever you go out in the cold.

Take care when driving If you absolutely have to drive in bad weather, make sure you allow extra time for your journey. Tell someone your destination and when you expect to arrive there. Always charge your mobile phone fully before you set off and make sure you take

lonely contact your local Age UK to see if they offer friendship services. If there are no local services and you’re interested in a weekly telephone friendship call, contact the national Call in Time Service at Age UK on 0800 434 6105 to find out more.

It helps to do something you enjoy every day. If you can and it’s not too cold, go for a short walk in the middle of the day, or at least go outside while there is daylight. There may be local classes or social groups you can attend. Check your local community centre or library noticeboard or contact your local Age UK to find out what opportunities there are in your area.

If you feel down for several weeks and it’s stopping you going out or making you feel lethargic and lacking in energy, it’s very important to share these feelings with someone, perhaps a friend or your GP.

warm clothes, boots, food, water, a torch and a spade in case

For more information please visit

you need them.

www.ageuk.org.uk

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59

A better approach to

the ageing process Eclipse HomeCare is working with Professor Peter Gore of Newcastle University to develop a better way of delivering care in the home. Eclipse HomeCare will use the unique ADL SmartCare App designed to help improve the ageing process for individuals.

This means that Eclipse HomeCare Caregivers will be able to better support and advise clients on options that will help retain

R

and improve their quality of life. esearch undertaken by Newcastle University’s Institute for Ageing has established that ageing is incredibly variable as only 25% of one’s ageing

journey is due to genetics. This means that the individual can have a big impact on how quickly things change.

Research shows that if you act early you can have the greatest impact on your ageing journey. Most people will start to lose the ability to carry out the 15 daily tasks listed below in an order similar to that shown on the graph. However, if you identify and keep your abilities for the longest possible time at the early stages you will have the best ageing journey.

The patented APP maps and records an individual’s age related functional decline and makes recommendations designed to help you keep your ability to perform that task.

Rob Gready, founder of Eclipse HomeCare said ‘’We are delighted to be introducing the use of this revolutionary technology that will allow our fantastic caregivers to give the best possible support to clients who want the best possible aging journey.’’

Rob also confirmed that the caregiver’s role would be enhanced, moving on from the current ‘checklist’ of tasks to value added suggestions of daily activities designed to optimise a client’s independence by reactivation of lost ability through reablement, the use of aids and signposting of local support groups, activities and resources (such as dementia groups, coffee morning, pick up / drop off transport services).

The APP also recommends equipment that can assist with daily living and can be delivered direct to the home with one click purchase.

If you would like to know more or be involved with either giving or receiving care under this programme, then please email Eclipse HomeCare directly for further information at info@eclipsehomecare.co.uk or call 01905 641 070.

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61

EDUCATION

SCHOOL READINESS Eight out of ten school leaders report that many children arriving at primary school are not

O

ready to take part in classroom activities. f these, 86 per cent were concerned that children’s school

readiness

is

worse than five years

ago. The findings come from a new survey of school leaders published in September by NAHT (the union for school leaders) and the Family and Childcare Trust.

The

most

common

reasons

highlighted by school leaders for children not being school ready were: • Failure to identify and support additional needs early enough (67%) • Parents having less available

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

resources / pressure on parents

language

and family life (66%)

problems were the biggest issues

• Reduction in local services to support families (63%) • Reduction in local health services to support families (57%)

and

communication

with 97% of respondents identifying these problems as a concern.

NAHT and the Family and Childcare Trust called on the Government to

Almost a quarter said that more than

prioritise funding for support for

half their intake was not ready for

families in the early years to help

school.

set children up to learn at school

Almost 9 in 10 (88%) said inadequate school funding was a barrier to improving school readiness.

and beyond. Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary said: “We want to see extra money for education, including early education before

School leaders highlighted particular

children

concerns about communication skills

renewed investment in critical

start

and physical development. Speech,

services

for

school,

families.

and

Without

>>

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63

EDUCATION

Almost a quarter said that more than half their intake was not ready for school. help them to give their children the best start in life.”

Anne Lyons, NAHT President, and head teacher at St. John Fisher Catholic Primary proper investment, the youngest and

issues. There is strong evidence that

most vulnerable in our society will be

early education can help to boost

starting off behind, with uncertain

children’s outcomes and narrows the

chances of catching up.”

gap between disadvantaged children

Ellen Broomé, Chief Executive of the Family

and their peers – but only if it is high

School said: “With this report we are hoping to highlight the impact that cuts to public services are having on families and children. The support that families of all kinds regard as essential are being cut back or have already

and Childcare Trust, said: “Four fifths

quality. The Government must make

of school leaders said that children

sure that every child can access high

mean that it’s also getting harder to

who had no previous early education

quality

address these issues once the children

demonstrated the most challenging

parents can get the right support to

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

early

education

and

that

disappeared. Cuts to school budgets

are in school.”

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65

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67

our events diary

Keep an independent mind this Christmas

A

s you walk around Worcester this

From jewellery and deli to accessories and

And for some well earned festive cheer

month and soak up the festive

clothing, and from chocolate and interiors to

with all the shopping done, enjoy the

atmosphere, don’t forget to keep

foodie and crafts, Worcester’s independents

spirit of Christmas with Worcester’s

an independent mind! This Christmas as

will have the perfect gift for everyone on

independent

you shop, take advantage of the rich array

your list: family, friends and more.

shops. Be it brunch, drunch, afternoon

of independent retailers that Worcester has to offer.

As well as quirky one-off presents, talk to Worcester’s independent retailers for

restaurants

and

coffee

tea or simply coffee to go, get a flavour of Worcester’s independent Christmas as you wander through the city.

For unique gifts and thoughtful choices,

their knowledge and expertise to make

Worcester’s independents have the pick

sure you give the best gifts going. Rest

To find out more about Worcester’s

of the bunch. Enjoy uncovering surprises,

assured, their passion and know-how will

independent retailers this Christmas,

treats and trinkets for loved ones that

shine through, and you’ll have Christmas

visit www.christmasinworcester.com

simply can’t be found elsewhere.

wrapped up in no time.

Christmas at

clearwell caves

year tells the curious tale of ‘Cora and the Bloobious Bright’. A young girl goes on a Christmas adventure set beneath the sea. As she swims along, she discovers unusual footprints, what strange creature do they belong to?

In a fun Christmas story, children meet Cora and the Bloobious Bright and follow them on an exciting journey, to discover if they will finally enjoy a Happy Christmas Day. In the largest cavern will be underground stalls selling gifts, decorations and stocking fillers, as well as an underground café, for a welcome hot chocolate, before continuing the story.

Booking is essential so please visit our website. There are late night openings on

T

Fridays (last entry 7pm).

his year Elves and friends of

children see Father Christmas in his

Clearwell Caves have been busy

spectacular underground cavern, they

creating exciting displays for this

choose a present, then walk through

popular

68

underground

Grotto.

ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018

First

wonderful Christmas displays, which this

It’s

a

great

underground

adventure, for all ages. www.clearwellcaves.com

Christmas

National Association of Goldsmiths Member

Quarter Jewellery(Worcester) would like to wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year The most reasonable Jewellers in Worcester

27 The Shambles, Worcester

NOW OPEN IN MALVERN

Malvern Goldsmiths - 28/30 Belle Vue Terrace @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.nowmagazines.co.uk

69

our events diary

DECEMBER

who will be preparing for the forthcoming festive season

Tuesday 2nd January 2018

This is a sell out event every year, dont miss out. Pre-

Friday 1st December 2017 – IN SEARCH OF LIGHT EXHIBITION Worcester Cathedral, Chapter Office, 8 College Yard, Worcester, WR1 2LA. www.worcestercathedral.co.uk Saturday 2nd Dogs Trust Christmas Fair 89 Pitchers Hill, Wickhamford, Evesham, WR11 7RT. 1.00pm – 4.00pm.

Tel: 01386 830613 www.dogstrust.org.uk A magical candlelit christmas Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR. 7.00pm – 10.00pm. Start Christmas with traditional magic at our magical Candlelit Christmas evening. Its easy to get in the festive spirit with carols singers, bell ringers, live music, roasted chestnuts, entertainers and

and discover traditional Christmas preparations through the ages. A perfect event to start off the Christmas season. booking is essential. Tickets are Adults – £8, Children £5.

Tel: 01527 889970 www.avoncroft.org.uk TENBURY MISTLETOE FESTIVAL Town Centre, Teme Street, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8AE. The Festival brings the community together in a unique way and is a really great day out for adults and children alike. www.tenbury-mistletoe-festival.co.uk Saturday 2nd december – Sunday 7th January NATIVITY TRAIL AT BODENHAM ARBORETUM Wolverley, Kidderminster, DY11 5TB. Once all the questions are answered bring it back to the visitor centre and post it in the letter box so that it can be scored to see if you win the prize. The winners will be announced at the end of the Christmas Season. Nativity Trail included in normal admission into the grounds. www.bodenhamarboretum.co.uk

snow! Browse around the Christmas Fair in the Guesten Hall which will be filled with unique gifts perfect for Christmas.

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd

Keep warm with a mulled wine or cider as you walk around

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

the museum site which will lit for Christmas. Visit the

Forge Mill & Bordesley Abbey, Needle Mill Lane Riverside

Avoncroft residents in our traditionally decorated houses

Redditch B98 8HY. 11.00am – 4.00pm. Step back in time

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71

our events diary

and join us to celebrate a traditional Christmas. Victorian

CANDLELIT ADVENT PROCESSION WITH CAROLS

entertainment will provide the festive atmosphere whilst you

Worcester Cathedral, Chapter Office, 8 College

browse amongst a variety of food and craft stalls to choose

Yard, Worcester, WR1 2LA. 6.30pm.

unique Christmas gifts. There will also be the opportunity

www.worcestercathedral.co.uk

to visit Father Christmas in his grotto as well as take part in some children's creative crafts. Adults: £1.00, children: Free.

Saturday 9th

www.forgemill.org.uk

Worcester Repair Café STARS Adult Day Care Centre, Stanley Road,

New Care Home Open Weekend

Worcester,WR5 1BE. 11am to 2pm. Clothes, furniture,

The Lodge at Burcot Grange, 23 Greenhill, Burcot,

electrical and other small appliances, toys and bicycles

Bromsgrove, B60 1BJ. Brand new care home – The Lodge at

all repaired - by donation. Bring your broken household

Burcot Grange - is having an open weekend. Meet the team

items to every second Saturday of the month

and take a tour of this luxurious, purpose-built care home

repaircafe.org/en/locations/

Tel: 0121 445 5552

worcester-repair-cafe/

Sunday 3rd

GHOST STORIES AT CHRISTMAS

Tiger Touring Theatre presents

Tudor House Museum, Friar Street, Worcester, WR1 2NA.

Jack and the Bean Stalk

Doors open 7.15pm for 7.30pm start. An evening of

Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley.

vengeful revenants, restless spirits, and malevolent ghouls is

6-00pm. Get the little one's imaginations roaring.

guaranteed for those soul’s brave enough to join us! £8.50

Tickets are £6 or £22 for a family of four.

Tel: 01905 612309

Tel 08456 077819

www.tudorhouse.org.uk

www.bewdleytowncouncil.org

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our events diary

Saturday 9th – Sunday 24th December

and Worcester’s Tammy Gooding and the procession

VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS

will be led by Someone at the Door Samba Band

Hop Pocket Shopping Village, Bishops Frome WR6 5BT.

and culminate with The Destroyers, a Balkan Gypsy

10am – 5.30pm. This rural shopping destination plays host

Band for the finale. Join in or just admire and soak

to over 20 unique and independent businesses giving you

up the atmosphere as the candle lit procession

far more choice than any high street. With a large free car

travels from Poundland to Argos on Bromsgrove's

park and a fantastic cafe and restaurant you won’t need

High Street.Free family event everyone welcome

to go any further to do all your festive shopping and take

www.artrix.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/

the kids to see Santa. Open every day until Christmas.

festival-of-light-bromsgrove-2017

www.thehoppocket.com Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th AN ELIZABETH CHRISTMAS Harvington Hall, Harvington Nr. Kidderminster DY10 4LR. 11.30am – 4.30pm. Festive greenery, log fires, carols and merriment! Standard admission prices apply. Adults £9.00, Seniors £8.00, Children £5.00. Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £25.00. Gardens and Malt House Visitor Centre £3.50. www.harvingtonhall.com Friday 15th WORCESTERSHIRE JAZZ ORCHESTRA Lickey End Social Club, Lickey End, B60 1JT. 8.30pm – 10.45pm. Worcestershire Jazz Orchestra holds a concert with a festive theme. In addition to Big Band arrangements from the 1930s to the present, expect jazz versions of Christmas numbers and two great singers, Lynn Dawes and Garry Rutter. This popular band contains some of the best pro and semi pro local musicians.There's real ale and a raffle as well, so an enjoyable night should be had by all! £6.

More details from Geoff 07970 662692 Saturday 16th Father Christmas Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR. Father Christmas has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit his favourite museum. Have a go at a festive craft while you wait for ‘the big man’ to arrive with his sack full of presents! Father Christmas will meet everyone as a group and will have a gift for each child, there will also be time for photos before he has to go and check on the reindeer! Tickets are £7.99 per child, children can

Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd Father Christmas Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR. Father Christmas has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit his favourite museum.

Have a go at a festive craft while you wait for ‘the big man’ to arrive with his sack full of presents! Father Christmas will meet everyone as a group and will have a gift for each child, there will also be time for photos before he has to go and check on the reindeer! Tickets are £7.99 per child, children can be accompanied by a maximum of two adults. Pre-booking essential! The event is held in a room accessible only by stairs. Father Christmas will meet all the children in the session as a group. Each child will receive a gift worth a minimum of £4.99. www.avoncroft.org.uk Sunday 28th Evesham over 45`s Meetup group.

The Angel Hotel, 9 High St, Pershore, WR10 1AF. 6.00pm – 7.45pm. Are you tired of the same old routine? Is your social-life is in need of a boost, join our Meetup group. Theatre, cinema, walks, meals and much more. Come along and meet us for a coffee/drink and a chat and find out more.

For more information phone Pam on 07501023391

JANUARY Wednesday 10th

Worcester and Malvern RSPB Local

be accompanied by a maximum of two adults. Pre-booking

Group talk: Moroccan Spice

essential! The event is held in a room accessible only by stairs.

Powick Village Hall (WR2 4RT). 7.30pm. Neil Glenn will

Father Christmas will meet all the children in the session as a

give an illustrated talk about a journey from the Sahara

group. Each child will receive a gift worth a minimum of £4.99.

Desert at Agadir via the Atlas Mountains looking at birds

www.avoncroft.org.uk

and other wildlife in Morocco. Powick Village Hall is on the A4499, the Worcester to Malvern road Car parking

Sunday 17th

at rear of hall. Entrance fee: Adults £2.00; children free.

Bromsgrove Festival of Light

Refreshments available. Non-members most welcome

5.00pm. The event will be hosted by BBC Hereford

www.rspb.org.uk/groups/worcester

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Dodderhill Independent Girls Droitwich Spa

Independent School for girls aged 4-16

Open Day Thursday 11th January 2018 “We provide an environment that allows our girls to develop a love of learning and facilitate their development into confident young women”

100% of our girls achieved 5 GCSE’s A*-C or more

“We celebrate the uniqueness of every individual girl” Contact us to reserve your place Tel: 01905 778290 info@dodderhill.co.uk www.dodderhill.co.uk

“Creating opportunities for educational discovery”

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

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ISSUE 173 WORCESTERSHIRE Now december 2017 ¯ January 2018