Worcestershire NOW - February 2016

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

FEBRUARY 2016

issue 152

baylis vauxhall expands in worcestershire See page forty-five for more information

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

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

ADVERTISE

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

When reshuffling, analyse what you use most often and envisage a space for it. Is it already in the perfect space, or could it be located elsewhere?

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth Amy Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS

Katherine Alker Wendy Carter Glynis Dray Charles McQuaid Jill Warren

COMPETITION WINNERS

06

Get your home in order with some innovative storage ideas

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Family Ticket to see The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at Birmingham Rep J. Davey, Bromsgrove J. Jenkins, Worcester J. Hinton, Kidderminster Luxury Night For Two at The Wood Norton J. Richardson, Worcester ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this

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Traditional cleaning throughout the home

winter interest

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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Surviving the cold

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CONTENTS

30

36

spoil your loved one

win with mercure hotel

34

The Wood Norton offers us a taste of chocolate

FEBRUARY 2016

ISSUE 152

44 40

Could teaching be the career for you?

worcester city walls walk

win tickets to ladies day

48 4

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

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Social Care and Support: Where to start

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homestyle

When reshuffling, analyse what you use most often and envisage a space for it. Is it already in the perfect space, or could it be located elsewhere?

STORAGE

in THE HOME

You don't have to make cupboards and other

General tips

storage spaces bigger to make them better.

At the end of December it’s easy to have more

A little planning and a wide variety of affordable, easy-to-install products can put every square inch of space to work throughout your house.

of everything than when the month began.

Whether it is toys in the bedroom, food in the kitchen or toiletries in the bathroom, space can start to be the only thing you run out of! Some sensible storage modifications can help you keep organised and relaxed.

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

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homestyle

Make the most of the space under your bed. Storage beds are perfect for keeping things out of sight. Ivy Short Storage Bed, £749.00. www.livingitup.co.uk

Before going through some specific

is unused space. When reshuffling,

found in local shops and department

ideas

the

analyse what you use most often

stores. Use accessories for uses

following general ideas are a good

for

individual

rooms,

and envisage a space for it. Is it

other than their advertised purpose;

starting point. Keep these in mind

already in the perfect space, or

use the tie rack to hang pendants or

as they can be used throughout your

could it be located elsewhere? If it

even belts!

home. One key word with innovative

can, then think of how it should be

storage is versatility.

stored. You will surprise yourself in

Run through some of the furniture in your house, there is a good chance

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Knox Natural Oak Open Shelf Unit, £399.99. www.dunelm.com

how innovative you can be! Tackle each room one by one.

Shoes at the bottom of the wardrobe can easily become a disorderly mess, using hanging boot and bag racks can save space and help organise.

that the majority of them have just

Bedroom

If you can’t find them locally, linen

a single purpose, some of them

Clothes draped over doors and

hangers or trouser hangers that

take up a lot of space and don’t get

furniture, children's toys in odd

used on a regular basis. Consider

use clips can work as well. Simply

places and general clutter can lead

re purposing these items to give

the bedroom into a bit of a jumble.

clip them on the boots and hang

them more than one use. Investing

With some careful planning and

in multi purpose furniture can free

clever storage it can be transformed

up room and help organise your

into a tidy delight. A wardrobe can

home. Another key word is height.

be fitted with accessories to keep

In tall cupboards fill the extra height

it clutter free and give extra room.

It is far too easy to throw hair pins or

with mini shelves, in tall rooms don’t

An easy modification example is a

tweezers into a cluttered pile next

be afraid to use the entire height of

slide out tie rack. This simple gadget

to your make up bag. Outwit your

the wall with shelves, empty space

takes up no extra space and can be

laziness with a magnetic strip that

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

up! Making your own hanging rail at a lower level is easy using a spring loaded hanging rail and is perfect for hanging the boots.

>>

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homestyle

Make use of empty voids by using storage units on wheels. Space Genie, £10.27. www.houseofbath.co.uk

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Bathroom shelving units help store towels and products away.

Storage Ladder, £80, Shelving Unit, £60. www.bhs.co.uk

catches these tiny items alongside

your advantage by flipping them.

vertically

nail clippers and other small metal

Inverted brackets can look great and

Specifically

tools that may lurk at the bottom of

help keep loose items, like a pile of

choosing to install a vertical pull out

your handbag.

hand towels, under control.

shelving unit will create a striking

Bathroom

Kitchen

A simple hook that can be easily

Chopping

screwed underneath an existing shelf

homework. Washing dishes. The

can be a perfect place to hang towels,

heart of the home is often the heart

shower gel and all sorts of grooming

of the action. If you want to have

tools that conveniently already have

enough space for, 'Tell me about your

a short rope on the end. Keeping

day' time, it helps to be organised. If

on the hook theme, a set of three

you are feeling brave you can do a bit

hanging baskets work exceptionally

of simple DIY and turn a magazine

well in the bathroom as the loads

rack into a storage space for your

Although a common concern in

are not usually heavy. These can be

cutting boards by coupling it with

the home, storage problems can

found in local gardening and home

the inside of your cupboard. If this is

be conquered

ware stores and work well by utilising

too adventurous, ‘mini shelves’ make

methods. With some inspiration

unused space. If you want to further

use of that empty void found after

from this article and a bit of creative

increase storage, add another set!

storing food in tall cupboards.

fizz, you can transform those boring

If you’re looking to install an extra

With all rooms it is important to

shelf you can use bulky brackets to

remember to go high! Thinking

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

saves within

floor

space.

the

kitchen,

and very useful unit. This can solve carrots.

Helping

with

several problems: it makes use of narrow spaces, makes finding pantry items easier and reduces the chances of buying the same spice that was hiding at the back of your cupboard over and over again! Ask your local kitchen supplier about built in pantry shelving.

using uncommon

boxes into supreme storage!

By Charles McQuaid

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

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homestyle

Winter Daphne Odera © Tracey Blackwell

winter interest You might think that winter isn’t a time for the garden to look good, but with careful planning and planting there are ways of keeping colour and most importantly, structure in the garden during the coldest months of the year.

Y

ear-round shape in the garden can come

Scented plants are a bonus to have in the garden in the

in the form of evergreens such as Yew

middle of winter. Winter Daphne (Daphne odera) has a

(Taxus baccata), Holm Oak (Quercus ilex),

wonderful fragrance, as well as pretty pale pink flowers

Portuguese laurel (Prunus Lusitanica), holly

which brighten up a shady border in winter. We grow

(Ilex aquifolium) and box (Buxus sempervirens), all of

this at Croome in the Evergreen Shrubbery, an area

which are evergreen trees with glossy green leaves

designed by famous landscape designer ‘Capability’

in various shades. Yew, Box and conifers in particular

Brown in the 18th century for the 6th Earl of Coventry

respond really well to being clipped and so are ideal for forming topiary cones, domes and, if you’re really

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to specifically give winter interest.

ambitious, spirals. Evergreens can also provide shelter

We also grow witch hazel (Hamamelis) which gives a burst of

for other plants from the strong winter winds and

bright yellow, fragrant, spidery flowers on its bare branches

even frosts. Viburnum (Viburnum tinus) is a very

in mid to late winter. Bear in mind they need an acid to neutral

useful evergreen as it can flower year-round and after

soil that drains well and doesn't dry out too much in summer.

flowering has lovely bluey-black clusters of berries.

Also best in acid soils (or potted ericaceous compost) are

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

>>

Spring Bulbs Now Available

Animal Feeds and Bedding Earls Croome Garden Centre Worcester Road (A38), Earls Croome, WR8 9DA Tel: 01684 592 143

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Snowdrops © Caroline Arber

heathers (Erica) which give us a mass of exquisite bell-shaped

to seeing clumps of snowdrops in your own garden next

often fragranced flowers in whites, purples and pinks. In the

winter, now is the time to visit your local garden centres,

18th century there were over 150 different heathers grown in

order from brochures or go online to buy your ‘in the

special beds in the Flower Garden at Croome.

green’ plants. Crocuses are a great early flowering bulb.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima) is another scented favourite at Croome, with a beautiful fragrance as its name suggests. This is a shrubby honeysuckle, not a climber, and it blooms in winter with dainty creamy white flowers on arching stems. It can get quite large so needs a decent space in which to grow.

Bulbs are another easy way to inject some winter interest and colour into the garden. The classic winter bulb is the snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis, and one of the first to show that there is still life in the garden after the cold and gloom of winter. There’s a wonderful show of snowdrops in the Church

Autumn so I hope they are starting to show their bright golden petals. You can find pots of crocus available for sale at garden centres about now and these can be planted out for instant cheeriness in the garden at home.

‘Capability’ Brown ensured that there was something interesting to see year-round in his designed landscape at Croome, and it is easy to ensure the same thing in your own garden with the right plants and bulbs and a bit of planning. Croome is open seven days a week from 10am – we hope to see you soon!

Shrubbery at Croome where we have Galanthus nivalis

Croome is open throughout the year. The park and lakeside

and Galanthus flora, both of which were noted in Croome’s

are open from 10am until 5.30pm every day and Croome

1824 planting guidebook, the Hortus Croomensis.

Court is open on weekdays from 11am to 4.30pm National

Unlike many other bulbs, snowdrops are best planted ‘in the green’. This means planting them while they are still

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We’ve planted about a thousand in the Wild Walk last

Trust Croome, near High Green, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR8 9DW Telephone 01905 371006.

in leaf, having been dug up after flowering, rather than in

By Katherine Alker

the autumn as a dry bulb. So if you want to look forward

Croome’s Garden & Park Manager

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

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homestyle

Traditional cleaning throughout the home A modern home is full of chemicals, most of

vinegars, but if the smell puts you off you can add

them are harmless, but some, particularly those

some natural essential oils.

found in cleaners and detergents, harm our own health as well as the environment. This article can help solve the problem and save you some money at the same time.

A

is a sodium bicarbonate and is a mild alkali which makes it easily dissolvable in water and can therefore remove grease and dirt. It can also be used when not fully dissolved, for example when sprinkled on a

modern cleaning cupboard is full of chemical

ridden

cleaning

materials,

usually one for each job. A traditional cleaning cupboard can have as little as 4

damp sponge or cloth, in this instance baking soda is mildly abrasive and therefore multiplies the possible uses. It also works as a deodorizer by neutralizing the odors, not just covering them up!

materials and still do the same amount of job thus

Tea Tree Oil – This acts as both an antiseptic and

saving the environment from harmful chemicals

antibacterial natural solution with a clean and

and excess plastic! Vinegar, baking soda, lemon and

citronella scent.

more recently, tea tree oil were all that was needed to keep a home spic and span: The Fantastic Four Distilled white vinegar – With so many uses and at such a low price vinegar is the king of traditional cleaning. Vinegar is a mild acid which neutralises

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Baking soda – This naturally occurring substance

Citrus Fruits – Lemons are the most common citrus coupled with traditional cleaning. But some tips require a bigger surface area so do not rule out grapefruits or oranges. Also buying a bottle of lemon juice is very useful as well.

grease and soap residues. It is also an anti-mould

Keeping the convenience

agent, a mild disinfectant, a bleach and a deodorant!

Combining the simplicity of traditional cleaning and

Distilled white vinegar has a milder smell than other

the convenience of modern cleaning is difficult,

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

>>

Winter Servicing

Offers available throughout December and January

Have you thought about:

Chainsaws available from £139

Chainsaw Safety Kit? Saw Horse?

Would a Log Splitter make your life easier?

Do you need more Chainsaw oil, 2-stroke oil, Chainsaw Chains, chain sharpening files or a sharpening kit?

And if you want to do-it-yourself We carry a huge range of service spares in stock!

Tel: 01386 552886 13 Bridge Street, Pershore, Worcestershire www.ohmsmowers.co.uk email: info@ohmsmowers.co.uk

Don’t Shabby Chic - Eco Chic instead.

Use this fabulous Eco-friendly specialist paint and see the difference.

Whether you prefer a matt finish using Earthborn Claypaint or something more silky using Earthborn Eggshell paint then we have the paint for you. We stock 72 colours to tempt you with. You can use Earthborn paint on your walls, woodwork and even tackle that upcycle project with confidence.

You can buy all your Earthborn paint and accessories from Clusters Emporium at the Hop Pocket Shopping Village, Bishops Frome, Worcester. WR6 5BT. So come and spend a day with us - there’s lots to see and plenty to do and free parking too.

Clusters Emporium, The Hop Pocket, Bishops Frome, WR6 5BT

Tel: 01885 490 861

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homestyle

but the solution can be found in your own secret solution! Making them is as easy as mixing, stirring and shaking! Here are some recipes to follow:

Combine the ingredients by stirring and leave to sit

DIY All Natural Purpose Cleaner

for 10 minutes after adding the jewellery. Remove

B 125ml Distilled White Vinegar B 2 Table spoons of Baking Soda B 500ml Water B 15 Drops of Tea Tree Oil B DIY Air Freshener B 500ml Water (Preferably distilled) B 2 Tables Spoons of baking soda B 5 Drops of Tea Tree Oil B 5 Drops of Lemon Juice

and rinse the jewellery and use a soft toothbrush to

Extra Tip: If you enjoy the smell of lavender or rosemary boil them in the water before to create a

remove any stains.

Merging your home made materials with the following tips and tricks will leave you with a naturally clean and fresh home: 1. Sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the juicy part of a sliced grapefruit and use as a sink or bath scrub.

2. Put plastic bags filled with vinegar around your shower heads to rid them of stains.

more enhanced scent.

3. Fill your burned pan with water, add two cups of

It can be difficult to go completely chemical free

two tablespoons of baking soda. The grime should

and you do not need to in order to continue protecting the environment. Look at the labels for more information on environmentally safe cleaning materials. For example when purchasing washingup liquid, look for bottles that state the contents are biodegradable or nontoxic. Avoid soaps containing petroleum products or phosphates. With this in mind you can combine this soap to make the following useful cleaning materials: DIY Glass & Jewellery Cleaner

B 1 Table spoon of washing-up liquid B 80 ml Vinegar B 500 ml Water B Jewellery Cleaner B Line the bottom of a dish with tin foil and add B 125ml of hot water then add: B 1 Teaspoon of baking soda 18

B 1 Tea spoon of salt B 1 Tea spoon of washing-up liquid

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

vinegar, bring to the boil, take it off the heat and add simply wipe away.

4. Put a microwave-safe dish filled with water add lemon juice and sliced lemons. Turn your microwave on for one minute and then wipe away the scented steam with a wet sponge.

5. Write the recipes of your DIY solutions on the back of the bottle you use. Next time you make the solution it will be easy to top up.

Do not be afraid to experiment with traditional cleaning, take some inspiration from this article and create your own solutions. There are endless combinations using the fantastic four!

By Charles McQuaid

www.darrenspencerelectrical.co.uk

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

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homestyle

RELAX BY THE RIVERSIDE

AT TAYLOR WIMPEY DIGLIS WATER! A peaceful river meandering by, pretty narrowboats bobbing in their moorings, a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills, a fascinating cathedral city – it sounds like the perfect place for a relaxing holiday.But act now, and this fabulous setting could be your home!

C

anny home-hunters are

reassurance that construction of

investors who want to avoid the

discovering

that

Taylor

their new homes has been overseen

additional 3% stamp duty levy

fast-selling

by an award-winning Site Manager

which comes into force for buy-to-

Diglis Water development

– now Production Manager – Andy

let purchasers and second-home

ticks all the boxes – and then some:

Shaw, who was honoured with a

owners on 1st April 2016.

Wimpey’s

B High-quality

luxury apartments

and houses

BA

peaceful

location

by

the

beautiful River Severn

B Everything

you

need

within

walking distance

B Breathtaking views of Worcester Cathedral and the Malvern Hills This sought-after development really does have everything prospective purchasers could want.

The local area is packed with plenty to do. Worcester’s bustling bars, fashionable restaurants and lively entertainment venues are just a walk away, and along the High Street, The

Building Council) Quality Award for

incentives

the Regional Award in the multi-

the Help to Buy scheme, which

storey category and now goes

enables eligible buyers to secure

forward to compete for the national

a Government loan for up to 20%

title, announced later this month.

of the full price of their new home

Anne

Wallace,

Regional

Sales

and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “It’s hard to imagine

low as 5%!

links to the M4, M6 and M45, while

“It’s no surprise the development is selling fast as home-hunters realise just how amazing the lifestyle opportunities here really

Diglis Water’s Waterfront Park and

There’s a fantastic selection of

floating river pontoon provide an

properties currently on sale at

attractive

Diglis

Water,

including

stylish

residents and visitors, with appealing

two-bedroom

views over the river and meadows.

£144,995, three-bedroom houses

A health and fitness centre is also

from £214,995, and four-bedroom

located on site, while the many

townhouses from £232,995.

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

to-value mortgage and a deposit as

from junction 7 of the M5 for quick

to act now, before it’s too late.”

Buyers at Diglis Water also have the

– so they only require a 75% loan-

location has so much to offer.

stores and boutiques.

full to capacity with narrow-boats.

including

Diglis Water lies just a short distance

hoping to make their home here

for

offers,

than Diglis Water – this beautiful

are – so I’d suggest that anyone

space

and

a more glorious place to live

will find a diverse selection of chain

recreation

Taylor Wimpey offers a range of

his work at the development, won

Shambles and Broad Street, visitors

mooring opportunities are frequently

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prestigious NHBC (National House-

apartments

from

the new homes are less than 1.5 miles from Worcester’s two railway stations for services to Birmingham, London, Oxford and Bristol.

To

find

out

more

about

the

exceptional homes at Diglis Water, property-seekers can visit the Sales Centre, located off Basin Road, Worcester, WR5 3BS, and open Thursday to Monday from 11am to 5pm. The Sales Executive can be contacted on 01905 670477.

Further Taylor

information Wimpey

about

developments

A handful of waterfront apartments

across the region is available by

can be completed by the end of

calling 01926 516911 or by visiting

March, for any quick-off-the-mark

www.taylorwimpey.co.uk

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homestyle

HELP TO BUY ISAs

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? Getting your foot on the property ladder can be a daunting and difficult experience. With the cost of living on the up and rental prices increasing by 9.7% in the last 12 months, the age of the national average first time buyer now stands at 37 compared to just 28 in 1995.

T

the

you to save tax-free, but they are

Building Societies offering their own

"Help to Buy" mortgage

specifically for first-time buyers.

additional benefits, such as up to 4%

scheme in 2013 bought

The scheme was launched on 1st

variable interest or a fixed bonus for

that average down by 6

December and a reported 140,000

the first 12 months. It pays to shop

years to 31 with over 70,000 people

accounts

having bought their first home over

already.

around for the best rates. Websites

he

introduction

of

the past year using the scheme, which allows savers to buy a home

22

have

been

opened

such as www.moneysupermarket.

Saving money in a Help to Buy ISA

com or www.moneysavingexpert. com have useful comparison tools.

with a deposit as low as 5 percent.

will see the government boost your

This scheme is designed to give first-

£200 you save, the government will

time buyers the confidence to save

top that up by £50. The maximum

for a deposit without the feeling that

government bonus you can receive

house prices are rising faster than

is £3,000 and to get this amount you

they can save.

must paid in a total of £12,000.

So how will a ‘Help to Buy

Where can I open an account?

transfer for you – don’t do it yourself

ISA’ be different?

Opening an account is easy with

otherwise your cash will lose its tax-

Like normal cash ISAs, they enable

most

free status.

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

savings by 25%. So far, for every

High

Street

banks

You are not tied into an account once you open it, so pays to keep an eye on the interest rate and switch to a better paying Help to Buy ISA as soon as possible if it drops. You can ask your new bank to carry out the

and

>>

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23

homestyle

It pays to remember that Help to

if you are a first time buyer aged 16

The property must be purchased

Buy ISAs can’t be opened jointly, but

or older.

with a mortgage to qualify however

if you and a partner are saving for a property you can each open an account provided you each meet the criteria.

property or a share of one in the UK or anywhere else in the World. You must be a UK resident, have a valid

this doesn’t have to be with the same bank or building society you hold the Help to Buy ISA with, so ensure you shop around. You can take out any type of mortgage as

How much can I save?

National Insurance Number and must

The maximum you can save each

not have an active cash ISA in the

month into a Help to Buy ISA is

same tax year. If you have opened a

£200, although you can make an

cash ISA in this tax year, you can open

The Help to Buy ISA cannot be used

initial contribution of up to £1,200

a Help to Buy ISA but have to take

to buy a second home or a buy-

in the first month if you can afford

additional steps. You can ask your

to-let property, and the property

to. Most banks & building societies

bank or building society for advice.

cannot be rented out after you buy

are offering an opening deposit of just £1.

The minimum amount that you need in the account to qualify is £1,600 and you’ll get a £400 bonus

24

You cannot have previously owned a

What happens next?

Your government bonus will be applied when you are in the process of buying your first home and close the account. Ensure you choose

long as its residential and not a buyto-let mortgage.

it. It also must be in the UK and cannot cost more than £250,000 or £450,000 if you are buying in London. You won’t get a bonus if you decide that you don’t want to buy a home after all.

added.

a solicitor or conveyancer that is

Who is eligible?

need apply for your bonus, you

the Help to Buy ISA, visit

You can qualify for a Help to Buy ISA

cannot do it yourself.

www.helptobuy.gov.uk

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

registered for the scheme as they

For more information about

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25

HOMESTYLE

NEW LAWS ON MICROCHIPPING Ahead of new dog legislation coming into effect in 2016, new research by Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest canine welfare charity, reveals a quarter of the public find it difficult to keep up to speed with current legislation with one in five owners still unprepared for the impending legal change.

R

esearch was commissioned to shine a light on gaps in our collective knowledge ahead of the

8 Compulsory child-free areas in restaurants, hotels, bars and other eating establishments

new English, Welsh and Scottish microchipping

9 A four day working week

law. From 6th April, dog owners must have their

10 Responsible social media management to be taught

pets chipped and ensure registered address details are kept up to date; owners who do not microchip their dogs

as part of the national curriculum

within 21 days of being served notice will be liable to pay

Comparing the data reveals double the amount of

a fine of up to £500.

men than women would support a ban on cars in city

Despite the forthcoming legal change in microchipping, official figures highlight that a fifth of owners still have yet to microchip their dogs. Accompanying research by the charity also found that almost half of owners had not

centres to reduce congestion. One in ten in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, say they would also support a move to introduce congestion charges like those in London – double the amount that said the same in Glasgow.

chipped their dogs either because they didn’t know how

Women were bigger supporters of adding animal care

or where to do so, or simply did not know they had to.

to the national curriculum with three in ten supporting

The research also looks more broadly at the laws the public most want to see, with a ban on loud music on public transport and fireworks prohibited outside of 5th November to reduce distress to animals as the two most requested pieces of new legislation.

The findings also fittingly reveal the impact the recent festive season has had on many; over a third would vote in favour of a ban on Christmas songs and adverts before

a move compared with just less than one in five men.

However, both were in agreement about adding social media management to compulsory school classes voting it the tenth most popular would-be legislation overall.

Adrian Burder, CEO of Dogs Trust says, “As our research shows, it can be hard to keep track of new and upcoming laws with nearly a quarter of people admitting that they find it confusing. Fortunately,

1st December.

there are a number of ways for the public to find out

Top 10 most wanted laws

updating a dog’s chip details has never been easier;

1 Ban on playing loud music on public transport

you can do it online, by telephone or by post.

all the information they need on microchipping and

2 Firework displays only allowed on 5th November to reduce animal distress

26

Microchipping and updating dogs’ microchips with the

3 Ban on putting feet/shoes on seats of public transport

correct details will be compulsory in England Scotland

4 60 days for consumers to return items for a full refund

and Wales from 6th April 2016. To find out more

5 Check out from a hotel to be no earlier than 12pm

information on microchip databases and how to update

6 No Christmas songs to be played in public before December

a microchip, please visit www.chipmydog.org.uk/update-

7 No Christmas adverts to be displayed until December

your-dogs-chip.

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

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

27

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Blue Tit © Chris Farman

SURVIVING THE COLD December 2015 was record breaking – the mildest December since records began and the wettest calendar month on record. The mild temperatures gave our wildlife a bit of a break from winter’s chill that can spell disaster for them. But winter isn’t over yet.

D

espite daffodils showing their heads and some

tree or bush but putting up nest boxes can help through

hedgerow plants starting to blossom, tough

cold winter nights as well as during the breeding season.

times may still lie ahead for our wildlife.

In fact, one lucky birdwatcher once discovered 58 wrens

Take garden birds, for example. For much of the year they’ll pop into your garden to supplement their diet of caterpillars, insects, spiders and other minibeasts with food you’ve put out for them. In the harsh weather of winter, invertebrates are hard to find and birds become much more reliant on your help; high energy food like meal worms, suet, peanuts and seeds become really important. During autumn and winter, berries are important for many birds, especially thrushes, so leave your berries for the birds. Ivy is particularly important as

keeping warm in just one box! Out in the countryside, you’ll find starlings roosting together – and may be lucky enough to see a starling murmuration before they drop down to bed at dusk. In reedbeds there may ten or even twenty starlings on one reed stem alone – the ones in the middle stay the warmest. During winter, long-tailed tits gang up in extended family parties and snuggle together during cold nights, each taking its turn to sit at the end and then snuggle into the middle of the group.

If you’re not able to help birds where you live, why not

the berries are quite late to ripen – bird-fuel for months!

consider renting a nest? We have nest boxes on our

During December and early January this year I heard

birds to breed and roost in winter. For just £10 you

a song thrush in full song, the ‘teacher teacher’ spring

can rent one for a year – for £15 you even get a spring

‘song’ of great tits and a woodpecker drumming – all

invite to see who’s made their home there. Visit www.

signs of spring. During winter months, birds tend to

worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/shop for more information.

nature reserves to provide supplementary places for

remain quiet and most don’t defend territories – both

Wendy Carter

take lots of energy they’re just not able to recoup and

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

retain when the weather is cold.

It’s not just food that poses a problem in winter; shelter can be hard to find too, especially for night-time roosting.

While birds are able to fluff up their feathers to create

Keep up-to-date:

they’re able to find nooks and crannies to hide from biting

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

winds and falling rain or snow. You can help with this – you may not have a garden big enough for an evergreen

28

MORE INFORMATION

air pockets that help to keep them warm, it’s crucial that

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

Tiddesley Wood near Pershore

Log & wood chip sales Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th February 2016 Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th March 2016 Sales 10am - 1pm each day Sold in aid of wildlife conservation

Logs £4.80 a bag. Loose without bags £95 per cu metre (250-300 logs) Loaded loose into trailers, car boots etc. Any amount big or small.

Chips if available, £3 a bag - quality discount and for loose.

To find the sale follow the main road out of Pershore towards Worcester. Turn left at the top of Allesborough Hill following signposts to Besford & Croome. After about 500 yards look for signs. WR10 2AD will get you near for those with Sat Navs.

www.tiddesley.org.uk

www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Lower Smite Farm, Smite Hill, Hindlip, Worcestershire, WR3 8SZ Tel: 01905 754919

J & E Nevitt Home Lighting Specialists

For all your lighting requirements please visit one of our stores

48 Broad Street, Worcester Tel: 01905 29889 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester Tel: 01452 301065

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

29

BEAUTIFUL

SPOIL YOUR LOVED ONE OR YOURSELF Valentine’s Day is almost here! So spoil your loved one with a beautiful gift or treat yourself to something special.

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enhanced with a new

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to the apples of cheeks before using the tips of your

moisture-enriched

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fingers to blend the colour along the cheekbones in the formula, offering a range

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direction of the temples. It’s conveniently designed for

of new shades with finer

Winter Rose oil, rich

touch-ups on the go, with or without a mirror.

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in Omega-9, with skin-

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30

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up whilst maintaining the

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skin’s natural barrier.

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

BALANCE ME

BAGSY

CHANEL

CLARINS

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The body lotion

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free body wash made

with this matte liquid

with the feminine and

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and a sheer tint that

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look on the vulnerable

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lightweight emollients

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women aged 45+.

keep lips soft and

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£12.00

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

Stockist Details: Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk. Bagsy - www.bagsybeauty.com.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Balance Me - www.balanceme.co.uk.

Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

BEAUTIFUL

31

BEAUTiful

droitwich aesthetic and laser clinic COMMENDED in the National Aesthetic Awards 2015 Outline Clinic, founded by Mary White, a Registered Nurse and an expert in non surgical cosmetic and aesthetic medicine, has been awarded Highly Commended in the category of Best Clinic North England.

M

ary started Outline Clinic in 2001 with the simple

pressure – after all, nobody likes feeling they are

aim to deliver the highest quality of cosmetic

“just another number”

enhancements in an ethical and professional way. Outline Clinic is now Worcestershire’s

Outline Clinic specialise in many different procedures,

Premier anti ageing and specialist skin clinic.

including laser hair removal, dermal fillers, anti wrinkle

Eight Clinics in England were selected as finalists for the

skin health, thread vein removal, lip and nose reshaping

Aesthetic Awards this year and the winner was chosen by a panel of judges as well as mystery shoppers who

injections, tattoo removal, HydraFacial, skin peels and and skin tightening.

check out each finalist clinic to assess who is giving the

The Aesthetic Awards bring together the very best in

best service and advice.

medical aesthetics and leaders in the profession to

The Aesthetic Awards took place on December 5th on London. The winning clinic was based in Harrogate and Outline Clinic ran a close second, coming in Highly Commended. Outline Clinic beat other local clinics from Birmingham and Warwickshire in the category.

celebrate the achievements of the past year. Twentyfour prestigious awards categories have been designed to recognise the finalists and winners for their services to the profession and industry. Awards are presented to those who have worked hard to represent the highest standards in clinical excellence, product innovation and

Mary White said: “I am delighted that our clinic won

practice achievement and have truly excelled in the field

this award and we are honoured that our patients

of aesthetic medicine.

have recommended us. It is testament to my staff and their hard work as we strive to give excellent friendly and our priority is your safety and treatment

MORE INFORMATION

journey from the moment you step inside our clinic.

Outline Clinic, St Peters Manor, St Peters Church Lane,

We have a reputation for “going the extra mile” and

Droitwich, Worcs, WR9 7AN, info@outlineskincare.co.uk

patient satisfaction. Outline Clinic is small and

we ensure that our patients enjoy the benefit of one-to-one, individual attention, without any sales

32

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

Tel: 01905 795028 www.outlineskincare.co.uk/clinic

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

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

Do you try to cut down on alcohol but just keep falling back into old ways?

Are you fed up of feeling like a bad partner/ parent when you know you are not?

Are you sick of feeling tired and anxious the next day?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions then it might be of benefit to you to seek 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.

Alternatively just drop in and see Julie for a quick coffee and a chat.

Drop-in times are between 5pm and 7pm every Thursday evening. No appointment needed.

Julie Ward Dip Couns, MBACP

Tel: 01527 272799 or 07434 286826 Email: actalcohol@hotmail.co.uk “If you don’t want to go to AA, or have tried it and its not for you then this could be the ideal alternative!”

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

33

FOOD & DRINK Chocolate Cremeux Ingredients:

B 250g double cream B 250g milk B 100g egg yolks B 50g sugar B 260g dark chocolate Method: 1 Bring milk and cream to the boil over medium heat; 2 Incorporate the sugar and egg yolks; 3 Pour boiling milk and cream onto eggs, stirring continuously; 4 Pour mixture over chocolate; 5 Stir mixture until all the chocolate has completely dissolved;

TASTES OF CHOCOLATE

6 Pour into container and chill until set.

Flourless Chocolate Sponge Ingredients:

B 600g dark chocolate B 300g unsalted butter B 12 eggs, separated B 100g sugar Method: 1 Melt the chocolate and butter over a bain-marie; 2 Whisk 50g of the sugar with the egg yolks and incorporate

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, The Wood Norton’s Head Chef, Kieran Hunt, shares the recipe for the hotel’s most indulgent dessert, ‘Tastes of Chocolate’, perfect for impressing your loved one come February 14th!

The Wood Norton Worcester Road Evesham Worcestershire WR11 4YB Tel: 01386 765611 www.thewoodnorton.com

34

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

B 100g pistachios B 100g water B Handful of pistachios Method: 1 Have fryer set at 190°C; 2 Bring sugar and water to boil, add pistachios and cook until the temperature reaches 110°C; 3 Remove pistachios from syrup; 4 Put pistachios and cook for a few minutes until golden brown.

Chocolate Soil Ingredients:

B 200g sugar B 200g water B 200g dark chocolate Method: 1 Bring water and sugar to 160°C; 2 Add chocolate to pan and whisk very quickly until it forms into small clumps; 3 Leave to cool.

Chocolate Tuile Ingredients:

B 60ml milk B 75g muscovado sugar B 75g icing sugar B 150g plain flour B 15g cocoa powder B 55g egg whites

this into the chocolate mix

Method:

once melted;

1 Over a low heat, dissolve the

3 Beat the egg whites with the remaining 50g to stiff peak; 4 Combine altogether, folding mixture lightly; 5 Pour mix into a prepared lined mould; 6 Cook in oven with no fan at 160°C for approx. 1 hour.

sugar into the milk; 2 Sift the icing sugar, flour and cocoa powder into a bowl; 3 Stir in cooled milk mix and the egg whites; 4 Combine the mix well until a thick paste; 5 Put into a piping bad and pipe small thin lines onto a lined

Candied Pistachios

tray and cook in oven at

Ingredients:

180°C for 7 minutes.

The Fir Tree Open All Day, Every Day Chinese New Year Buffet Friday 5th February A Huge Selection of Chinese Cuisine all for you to try Buffet Style! £13.95pp Booking is advisable.

Valentines Weekend

Fri 12th & Sat 13th February Surprise that special someone with a three course candle lit dinner! £29.95pp, includes a glass of bubbly Booking Essential.

Mothers Day

Sunday 6th March Treat Mum this Mothers Day, Three Course Sunday Lunch £15.95 NO Washing up Included!

Gift Vouchers are now available to purchase for any amount!

Special Offer

Available Monday-Friday 2 x 8oz Steaks, Sirloin or Ribeye Served with chips and peas.

PLUS a bottle of House Red or White All for £25.00

Dunhampstead

Droitwich

WR9 7JX

Tel: 01905 774094

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

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

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

35

FOOD & DRINK

Win a relaxing retreat for two at Mercure Hotel Kidderminster We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night stay for two people at the Mercure Hotel Kidderminster, including a three-course evening meal and indulgent Champagne Afternoon Tea.

T

his beautiful 19th century house is set in 20 acres

to a Privilege bedroom, where you’ll find flat screen TV,

of Worcestershire countryside. You’ll unwind

Nespresso coffee machine and fluffy robes and slippers.

in Victorian splendour among original features including open fireplaces, intricately carved oak

doors and stained glass windows.

Clee and Abberley Hills, visit nearby West Midlands Safari

The prize includes dinner for two in The Court Restaurant,

Severn Valley Steam Railway?

choosing from a diverse collection of mouth watering

Park or chug past the Georgian town of Bewdley on the

dishes, prepared using fresh ingredients and locally

At Mercure Hotel Kidderminster, wedding couples can

sourced produce. You’ll also enjoy Afternoon Tea with

tie the knot in the romantic wooden gazebo and waltz

delicious finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream

their first dance in the newly refurbished Balmoral Suite,

and strawberry preserve, and dainty cakes and pastries.

with a design scheme inspired by the hotel’s Victorian

A glass of bubbling champagne will top off the experience!

heritage.

Winners will have full use of the hotel’s Feel Good Health

Find out more at

Club with heated indoor pool and gym, and be upgraded

www.mercurekidderminster.co.uk

Competition

For your chance to win a relaxing retreat for two at The Mecure Hotel in Kidderminster, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Afternoon Tea traditional features which one of the following?: a) Cakes b) Brussel Sprouts c) Sausages Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: The Mecure HotelWN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 17th February 2016. Prize package includes: Two night stay for two people sharing a Privilege bedroom; Champagne Afternoon Tea for two; Three course evening meal for two up to the value of £80 ISSUE 152 (one night only); Full English breakfast for two. Terms & Conditions: All prizes are non-transferable. The WORCESTERSHIRE Now winner cannot obtain cash or other substitution; Offer is subject to availability; Prize must be redeemed FEBRUARY 2016 before 31st July 2016; Jupiter Hotels will provide the winner with the prize. All other costs and expenses, including but not limited to, travel, drinks and room service, will be the responsibility of the winner.

36

During your stay, why not enjoy a walk in the surrounding

Answer: Name:

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

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

37

FOOD & DRINK The Brook Inn near Redditch

THE BIRTH OF

THE GASTRO PUB The British have always had a strong love affair with pubs. There are over 50,000 in the UK and they are often worshipped as the focal point of a community; a place to celebrate and mourn in equal measure.

T

he regular pub was once a

The

place for a working man to

been widely attributed to the rise to

sink eight pints with a pork

prominence of British cuisine, which

pie and a bag of crisps before

has allowed us to embrace our heritage

heading home, late of course, for

and traditions, but with a modern twist.

dinner. Like society itself, the traditional

movement

has

pub has long since evolved or died.

Its antagonists, however, of which there

In the late 1980s, heavily in the throes of a

to serving ale, with no greater culinary

Conservative government, the UK’s pub

aspirations than a bought-in pork pie

scene witnessed its biggest upheaval in

or a pasty. Whilst an amuse bouche

decades, with the large breweries being

plus a full tasting menu has no place on

forced to sell some of their properties,

a pub menu, there are few things more

making way for competition and fewer

pleasing than the fusion of good food,

barriers to entry, and thus many believe

good beer or quality wines, under the

that, from the jaws of Thatcherism, the

same roof.

gastropub was born.

are many, argue that a pub should stick

This is how a gastropub should be

modern British cuisine, fine wines & real ales, all set in the scenic countryside of Worcestershire. Expect friendly service & great food, cooked using great local ingredients. www.thebrook.pub Wildmoor Oak near Bromsgrove The award-winning Wildmoor Oak is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the best quality freshly cooked food, real ales and superb wines from around the world. www.wildmooroak.com The Bull Inn Fernhill Heath A traditional Victorian building, but inside you will find a stylish, modern interior and a warm welcome. Food ranges from traditional to contemporary. www.thebullatfernhillheath.co.uk The Anchor Inn Worcester Set in the heart of the Diglis Marina, just a few minutes walk from the centre of the historic and charming city of Worcester. The pub first opened back in the 1840s and has been serving the local crowd ever since. www.theanchorworcester.co.uk The Elgar Inn Earls Croome Named The Elgar Inn, as it's located on the Elgar route, the fine-dining restaurant offers top quality Italian cuisine in a delicious fusion with Greek dishes too.

The Eagle, in Clerkenwell, London

– a place that brings our two loves,

is attributed with being the pioneer

food and booze, together in relaxed,

of the gastropub movement in the

unpretentious surroundings. On a lazy

Chequers Inn Fladbury

early 90s and it remains at the top

Sunday, a restaurant setting just won’t

Fresh country pub food, sourced locally

of its field with a daily changing, if

cut the mustard; Sunday demands

where possible. Good Variety of drinks

somewhat limited, pub menu with

wholesome, homely and well cooked

including Traditional Guest Ales.

Spanish influences. The Eagle strikes

classics to accompany a bloody mary

www.chequersinnfladbury.com

the right balance between a pub and

or a lager shandy, and where else can

a restaurant, and therein lies the

you sit at your leisure with the papers,

problem for most.

slouched in your chair without worrying

A gastropub is not simply a restaurant

38

gastropub

A contemporary country pub serving

too much about being ‘proper’?

that has beer on tap; nor is it an ale

A true gastropub should not be defined

house that serves a ploughman’s

by its ubiquitous design, its wooden

lunch as a side thought; it is, by

floors or its black chalk board menu,

definition, a place where good food

but by the quality of the food and

and drink sit seamlessly side by side,

alcohol it serves in its genre – in this

where the whole is just as good as the

case simple, rustic dishes with robust

sum of its constituent ingredients.

flavours, lovingly prepared.

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

www.elgarinn.co.uk

The Nag's Head Malvern Real Ale. Real Food. Real people. Dogs Welcome.

www.nagsheadmalvern.

co.uk The Forest at Feckenham Offering quality food using the best ingredients we can source and all of our dishes are prepared by our chefs on the premises. Our aim is to provide top quality anglo french cuisine in a relaxed and informal pub atmosphere with excellent service. www.theforestatfeckenham.com

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

39

EDUCATION

H Teach First launched in 2002 to persuade high¯ flying graduates to teach for at least two years in inner¯city schools.

could teaching be the career for you?

The start of the New Year is a time to make new resolutions and plan challenges. For many of us, January is also a time to think about our careers, and even look to change direction. But have you considered heading into the classroom?

40

ISSUE 152 151 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY december 2016 2015 ¯ january 2016

>>

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

41

EDUCATION

tried-and-tested knowledge and skills to teaching, you can make a real difference to young people’s lives. There aren’t many careers where no two days are the same.

In teaching you get to pass on your love of a subject, innovate and lead in your own classroom every day.”

Joe Hull, 36, was a policeman for 12 years before switching to become an English teacher in 2013 through Teach First. He said: “When I left university it was a choice between

Y

joining the police and becoming

oung professionals are to be

campaign Change Career, Change

a teacher. I became increasingly

targeted to switch career and

Lives, with the aim to inspire more

disillusioned with the police but

retrain as teachers in some

young professionals and career-

by then I was married with two

of the UK’s toughest schools,

changers to teach in low-income

children and thought it would be

areas across England and Wales.

impossible to retrain as a teacher

as part of a major recruitment drive which launched on the 18th of January.

Lawyers,

police

staff

and

office

workers are among those who will be

“Working

in

the

school

environment is unlike anything I’ve

and be without a salary for a year.”

James

Alexandra, who joined a Leadership

believe it takes a lot more than just

Development Programme (LDP) in

academic credentials to become a

2014 from a career working with young

great classroom leader, and that's

offenders, “you have to collaborate,

why we place a high value on

so that whole environment is quite

experience. Career changers bring

expertise from other sectors. This is to

interesting,

teachers

an invaluable mix of experience,

solve the increased demand for staff

all supporting each other.” For

skills and expertise that make a

from schools, particularly in priority

Michaela, also training as a primary

real difference in the classroom".

subjects such as science and maths.

teacher, having worked at a not-

for a life back in the classroom. More than one in five of the latest cohort of teachers joining education charity Teach First are career changers and young professionals, bringing valuable

with

the

for-profit organisation, the reality Schools in poorer areas have been hardest hit by a worsening teacher recruitment crisis, the charity argues.

Research has shown that only one in seven teachers would take a job in a more demanding school than their

of the job wasn’t entirely as she’d anticipated: “I expected teaching to be challenging and it definitely has been… but I didn’t realise it would be so fun and exciting.”

own. A survey of school leaders showed

Travis, a former PHD student and

that 54 per cent in poor areas said the

trainee science teacher loves working

struggle to attract good teachers was

in such a diverse environment: “You

a major barrier to improving pupils’

get to meet lots of different types

performance, compared with 33 per

of people and personalities, from

cent in more affluent areas.

different backgrounds and with

Teach First launched in 2002 to

different priorities. Getting to know your students in that way makes

Westhead

continued

"We

done before,” says primary teacher

encouraged to ditch their existing jobs

So whether you’ve already considered a career in the classroom or not, the LDP could be your opportunity to change career and change lives. Your next local event is on 10th February at the University of Birmingham - this event offers an overview of Teach First and their Leadership Development Programme (LDP) for anyone with a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) degree or A levels. The LDP combines teacher training with leadership skills, and the experience gained can be taken forward into any career. If you have any questions

teaching a really good job to have.”

about this event please contact Lorna

inner-city schools. On 18 January it

James Westhead, Teach First executive

other locations see http://graduates.

began the nationwide recruitment

director, said: “By bringing your

teachfirst.org.uk/events

persuade

high-flying

graduates

to teach for at least two years in

42

as I couldn’t afford to do a PGCE

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

on

lculpin@teachfirst.org.uk

for

FREE PIANO LESSONS!

V

ale Pianos are hosting

you’ve always dreamt of playing

a day of free piano

the piano or keep promising

lessons

family

yourself that one day you’ll go

activities on Saturday

back and continue where you left

12th March as part of National

off, make this the year! Playing

‘Learn to Play Day’.

the piano is a wonderful hobby

and

It is a great opportunity to have an

no matter what age you are.

informal, sample lesson for you or

There is free on site parking

your child. During the day there

and the team at Vale Pianos

will be plenty to keep you and

will be happy to give advice and

your family busy; make music with

answer any questions you may

a giant keyboard, a grand piano

have. There are over 100 new,

to paint and decorate, colouring,

pre-owned and digital pianos to

Easter craft activities and free

come and play.

balloons. Bring a picnic, take part and enjoy the lovely rural setting with refreshments available on

Vale

Pianos

is

on

the

Throckmorton Road between

site throughout the day.

Pershore

and

Evesham

on

There are many benefits to

will be offering piano lessons

playing music and the piano

between 10.00am and 4.00pm.

is great to begin with. It has

Please phone Vale Pianos on

been scientifically proven that

01386 860419 to book your

children playing an instrument

lesson or if you would like more

can achieve better results in

information, visit their website at

many other academic subjects. If

www.valepianos.co.uk

the A44 – WR10 2JY. Richard

Need further information?

01432 274310 • 01905 729993 Engineering • Business Administration Warehousing • Customer Service • Accountancy

Apprenticeships Don’t dream it.

Do it!

The open evening is for anyone interested in finding out more about apprenticeships in Engineering, Commercial, Business Administration, Warehousing, Customer Service or Accountancy.

Meet the staff who can talk you through what an apprenticeship is and answer any questions you have. Talk to our current apprentices and some of the employers taking apprentices this year.

Bring your friends and family with you!

Getting paid while you learn might sound too good to be true - but as an Apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds.

OPEN EVENINGS - DROP IN ANY TIME FROM 4PM TO 7PM AT: Wednesday 17th February 2016 - Hereford (HGTA) Thursday 25th February 2016 - Hereford (HGTA)

HGTA, Holmer Road, Hereford, HR4 9SX • 01432 274310

Thursday 18th February 2016 - Worcester (WGTA) Monday 22nd February 2016 - Worcester (WGTA)

WGTA, Sunnyside Road, Worcester, WR1 1RL • 01905 729993 @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

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keeping active

Start/Finish: Walk starts/ends at ‘The Hive’ in Worcester.

Public Transport: Nearest Railway Stations at Worcester Foregate Street and Worcester Shrub Hill. Worcester Bus Station is nearby. Please check current timetables.

Parking:- There are large riverside car parks at Croft Road (near the railway viaduct) and at the old Cattle Market opposite.

O/S Map: Explorer Map 204 (and street map of Worcester useful).

Distance: A short city trail of about two miles. A longer walk can be had by exploring the older buildings that have survived inside the city wall in Fish Street, Melcheapen Street and Friar Street with National Trust Property ‘Greyfriars’ – a Medieval Merchant’s House.

Time: Allow a morning or afternoon to do this walk.

Refreshments: There are many city centre eating places and food shops or support the café at ‘The Hive’, open all day serving drinks and light snacks into the evening. Open most days all year round.

Terrain: Strong comfortable shoes are recommended. Most of the described walk is flat and along surfaced paths. For this reason the walk is ‘wheel-friendly’ being suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

History: Worcester City has had ‘defences’ in the form of stone walls since Roman times. Most of the remaining sections of wall date from Medieval times. Since Tudor times, bricks have been used to repair these walls or to maintain the height of the wall. As the city has developed, sections of the wall, no longer needed for defense, have been built upon making the route difficult to follow. In some cases the stone from these early walls has been used to construct nearby buildings. Look out for boards with historic notes.

higher modern road. Cross bridge with care to South Quay built in 1700’s. If river in flood, walk round Deans Way to Cathedral and rejoin walk at Point 6.

4: Cathedral stands above one of best sections of city wall (listed as an ancient monument) - largely built of red sandstone, probably brought down river from Bewdley area. Notice flood plaques on wall – they make interesting reading! ‘Water Gate’ leads through City Wall to Cathedral - only remaining complete gate’.

1: Walk starts at entrance to ‘The Hive’, Worcester’s Library, Archives and Resource Centre, opened 2012. Inside is Roman Oven excavated from site. Enjoy a coffee in The Hive Cafe before you start walk! With your back to entrance, turn right, walk down steps to left of bridge onto ‘The Butts’ below. You can see a tall wall opposite built of stone and brick and modified many times through history – this is Worcester’s City Wall with city beyond.

5: Continue walking beside wall as far as ‘Diglis House Hotel’. Turn left (remains of wall on right). Walk towards Porcelain Museum, find plaque marking ‘Frog Gate’. At corner, wall would have gone straight on to line up with road - aptly named ‘City Walls Road’.

Walk through car park to junction. ‘Sidbury Gate’, (London Gate), was near Canal Bridge to right – see plaque. ‘Commandery Museum’ worth a visit.

2: Turn right and walk along ‘Butts’ – the line of a ditch where archers used to practise. Cross at pedestrian crossing. Turn left along North Quay and shortly (opposite Severn View Hotel) and where ‘Newport Street’ joins was where an earlier ‘St. Clement’s Church stood and St. Clement’s Gate was in this vicinity.

6: Walking round City Walls Road there are numerous sightings of wall and path cut away to enable access to wall foundations.

You will pass ‘Friar Gate’ and St. Martin’s Gate with bastion that was once a gate pillar (look for plaques).

3: You will find a plaque on lower level path describing site of earlier bridge (demolished 1932) and its central pier with ‘Bridge Gate’ on it. Walk up steps and notice ‘Old Rectifying House’ and

7: Enter city and turn left to see how St. Martins Gate lined up with Melcheapen Street which led to Worcester Cross in centre.

Continue along City Walls Road to St. Nicholas Street, notice plaque for Trinity Gate that housed City Gaol. Continue to Sansome Street.

8: Turn left along line of ‘Town Ditch’. At Foregate Street, turn left and look for plaque across road - this was site of ‘Fore Gate’ or ‘North Gate’ (also known as ‘City Gate’ and ‘Forest Gate’demolished around 1702).

9: Return to ‘Ditch’ along Shaw Street turning left into Angel Place. Cross line of wall near ‘Tramps’. Take raised footpath to right of Bus Station. Shortly, wall exposed again on right.

10: Cross wall via bridge over ‘Butts’ to ‘The Hive’ where walk ends – why not enjoy a coffee or you can use library to find out more about what you have seen?

Written and illustrated by glynis dray

Worcester's city walls 44

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

baylis expands operations in worcestershire Gloucestershire-based motor group Baylis has acquired the Vauxhall franchise for Evesham after taking over the former Bridge Motors garage at Greenhill. At the same time, it has completed a major refurbishment of its branch in the city of Worcester.

T

he purchase took place in December, with all Bridge staff at the Evesham site being re-employed by the new owners.

Commenting on the take-over, Baylis Financial Director Dave Jones, said: “The Evesham site is a great geographical fit with our existing businesses, being located about thirty minutes’ drive-time from both the Cheltenham and Worcester dealerships.

“The long-standing and prominent site at Greenhill has sales, service and parts departments with a loyal customer base who enjoy good relations with the Vauxhall marque. In the near future we will refurbish the premises to bring them into line with brand standards. We believe that, as part of Baylis, Evesham will provide a stronghold in a county where we already operate, allowing us to better serve existing customers and develop new business.”

The latest arrival in Baylis' Worcestershire showrooms is the all-new Vauxhall Astra. Now in its seventh generation, the car is a bold reboot of the iconic, British-made hatchback. Still proudly built in the UK, it’s now lighter in weight, roomier inside and more compact than ever, bringing together clever engineering with premium design, and powered by a new range of ultra-efficient engines. Sharp lines, athletic sculpting and the striking curve of the ‘floating’ roof – the design of the

new Astra captures the dynamic potential within. Premium interior and distinctive wheels further enhance its overall appeal.

New Astra has innovative features as standard: LED daytime running lights add style and visibility. Inside, the Astra is tailormade to put you at ease. Its premium interior sets a new standard in the compact-car class.

Vauxhall’s front camera system, standard on SRi models and optional on others, includes smart features like traffic sign recognition, following distance indicator, forward collision alert and an active lane-keep assist indicator. Keyless entry and start recognises a key and unlocks the car automatically when you get close to it. It also allows you to start and stop your vehicle at the push of a button. Other class-leading options include Vauxhall’s Inch-perfect parking: made even quicker with handsfree advanced park assist and rear-view camera technologies.

Baylis currently have the all-new Astra Energy 1.4 on offer from just £15,795 - a saving of £1500 against list price. For further information drop in at Baylis, Greenhill, Evesham WR11 4EX or Cotswold Way, Blackpole, Worcester WR4 9XN. Latest offers can be found at www.baylisvauxhall.co.uk

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

45

living history

THE DEATH OF KING JOHN This year is the 800th Anniversary of the death of King John and his burial here in Worcestershire in the monastery that is now Worcester Cathedral. John was the first Plantagenet king to be buried in England and not in France. His burial in 1216 proved profitable for the monastery. The manor of Grafton was received in payment for candles at King John’s tomb and the whole of what is now College Green, including the royal castle was restored.

J

ohn’s 17 year reign covered a turbulent time in

over Friday 8th and Saturday 9th April 2016 will include an

history, hear about how his final resting place

evening lecture by Prof Church asking ‘Who was King John?’

came to be in Worcester - join a talk beside King

and a lecture by Prof David Carpenter, emeritus professor

John’s tomb on Thursday 18th February at 2pm.

of medieval history at King’s College London on ‘Henry

The talk ‘Did King John Love Worcester?’ is part of the

III’s perceptions of his father’. More information about

Love Worcester Heritage Festival. The week-long event

the conference can be found at www.worcestercathedral.

from Saturday 13th – Sunday 21st February celebrates

co.uk/King_ John_Conference.php, or by telephoning the

Worcester’s spectacular heritage at 12 sites around the

Cathedral office on 01905 732900.

city, with many offering activities to keep adults and children entertained. Join in a family competition and crack a code for a chance to win a Worcester hamper of goodies. Visitwww.visitworcestershire.org/loveworcester for more information and look out for the Love Worcester hearts!

To commemorate King John’s 800th Anniversary there will be a conference at Worcester Cathedral that will gather together a group of scholars who will lecture on and discuss the history of Worcester Cathedral in the 13th Century and the impact that King John’s tomb had on the development of the Cathedral. Professor Stephen Church, who teaches medieval history at the University of East Anglia and who has written a book, ‘King John: England, Magna Carta and the Making of a Tyrant’ is helping the

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Worcester Cathedral has been visited by many monarchs over the years. It was the responsibility of the Prior at Worcester, as head of the monastery, to entertain visiting members of the royal family, together with members of the aristocracy.

The Cathedral Library archives revealed that Easter 1159 saw a coronation of King Henry II and his Queen at Worcester Cathedral. However, this was one of several occasions on which Henry II performed the ceremony around the country for his subjects. Later in 1278 there was the royal wedding of Llewelyn, Prince of Wales who married King John’s granddaughter Eleanor de Montfort at Worcester Cathedral in the presence of King Edward I and the King of Scotland.

Cathedral organise the conference. There will be nine

To hear more fascinating stories, book a

lectures, each one focusing on key issues to do with

tour

Worcester in the 13th Century. The two day conference

visits@worcestercathedral.org.uk

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

of

the

Cathedral

by

emailing

T: +44 (0)844 815 9033

Valentine’s Day Food has forever been described as the way to your loved one’s heart and no meal is said to be more romantic than Valentine’s Day. Spoil your loved one at Mercure Kidderminster over a candlelit, five course dinner and a glass of Champagne. £25.00 per person

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

47

golden years

SOCIAL CARE AND SUPPORT When you or someone you care about starts to have difficulty managing daily tasks at home and needs extra support and care, it can feel daunting and you might not know what help is available or how to arrange it.

T

he

support

Each Local Authority will have

The new personal budget system

system is complex and can

care

and

its own assessment procedure,

is intended to allow service users

be confusing, with many

information about this should be

greater choice and control over how

organisations

available on their website.

their needs are met.

provision of care.

Local authorities will also provide an

Finances and how it affects

The rules on how you pay for care

can signpost to services. You should

and support can also be difficult to

always be offered information and

understand and it’s important to

advice to help you understand the

know what you are entitled to.

social care system, regardless of

involved

in assessment, arrangement and

up-to-date list of local providers and

However, there is help and advice available and, with a bit of planning,

services.

it is possible to find good care which

Assessment of needs

helps your needs.

You should also be offered an

What social care services are available?

Examples of services available to help with care and support needs can include:

B Help

at home with shopping,

laundry and cleaning

B Intensive

assessment of your needs. This means that a social worker (or sometimes an occupational therapist

Care arranged by a Local Authority is not usually free. Your Local Authority will therefore ask about your finances and income.

There are national rules for charging care home fees, which means you will pay the full cost of care if you have more than £23,250 in savings (the limits vary slightly in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland).

or nurse) will ask you questions about

If you own your own home and no one

what you find difficult on a daily basis.

else lives in it when you move into a

This assessment will be used to work

care home, the council is able to take

out what your levels of need are and

into account the value of the property

what support can be provided.

and use it to pay for care home fees.

home care such as

A needs assessment must always

In charging for home care, most

washing, dressing and preparing

lead to the production of an agreed

Local

a meal

care and support plan. You should

£23,250 savings limit, but it can vary.

be provided with a copy of this plan.

However, the value of your property

B 24-hour

care in a care home

or a housing with care scheme (also

known

as

sheltered

Eligible needs

Authorities

will

use

the

will not be taken into account.

If you have eligible needs the Local

Charges for care are complex, and

Authority has a legal duty to meet

you should seek more detailed

If you do qualify for local authority

them. To meet your needs the council

advice from the Age UK advice line

support, instead of receiving directly-

will allocate a personal budget for

on 0800 169 6565 or their website

funded and arranged services, you

your care. This means that you can

www.ageuk.org.uk.

can ask for cash payments so that

choose to have services arranged on

you can arrange your own care. This

your behalf or a cash payment paid

allows for greater choice and control

to you to arrange your own care. This

over how your needs are met.

is called a Direct Payment.

entitlements. For example, there is

Where do I start?

As part of your assessment you

Attendance Allowance, which provides

Your first port of call should be your

should receive appropriate advice

a weekly income to help meet additional

Local Authority (via Gov UK) - contact

about how your needs should be

costs that arise from a disability or

its social services department.

met.

difficulty with everyday activities.

accommodation).

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whether or not you are eligible for

charges for support

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

It’s also very important to ensure that you get all of your benefits and a non means-tested benefit called

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

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

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

49

golden years

NEW APARTMENTS RELEASED FOR SALE Due to the popularity of the stunning apartments in Noble House, Sanctuary Group is pleased to release seven additional one and two-bedroom apartments for sale through our flexible Shared Ownership scheme,

N

available exclusively for those over 55. oble House is part of

wonderful landscaped gardens. There

a 75% share, with no rent required

Sanctuary

is also a GP and pharmacy conveniently

on the remaining portion.

popular,

Grove,

a

purpose-built

development set on the

outskirts of St Johns. Noble House is well equipped with fantastic communal facilities, giving the development a true community feel. Homeowners enjoy socialising in the on-site Taste restaurant and outside terrace, which is open to residents and members of the public every day for meals, light bites and refreshments.

Residents can take advantage of the on-site hairdressers and beauty

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located adjacent to Noble House.

Rented apartments are still available

The apartments themselves have

and if you are aged 55 or over and

been designed to support you to

have links to the local area you could

live independently with specialist

be eligible.

features such as emergency pull-cord technology to give you added peace

We would be delighted to welcome

of mind. Each apartment comes fully

you to Noble House at one of our

carpeted and finished in neutral tones,

Coffee Mornings on either Thursday

complete with a stylish fitted kitchen,

4

fridge freezer and washing machine.

February at 10am-12:30pm.

Bathrooms are equipped with non-slip flooring and a level access shower for your safety and convenience.

February

or

Wednesday

10

Alternatively, to arrange a private viewing please call 0800 916 1444.

If you are interested in renting

salon, convenience store and activities

Shared Ownership apartments start

at Noble House please call us on

room or simply relax outside in the

from ÂŁ142,500, based on purchasing

01905 676 940.

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

South Hayes Care Home

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

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

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

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

51

our events diary

Win Two Club Tickets to Ladies Day

at The Cheltenham Festival

M

The Festival returns with £4.1 million card over four days of unbeatable racing.

arch sees the return of the highlight of

Ladies Day is always a hit with racegoers – but the real

the Jump racing season with the world

action is with the racing. Wednesday sees another seven

famous Cheltenham Festival: four days of

race card featuring the Betway Queen Mother Champion

atmosphere, anticipation and action played

Chase, and the sight of the best two mile chasers going

out in a beautiful sporting arena, taking

head-to-head around the famous Cheltenham course is,

place from Tuesday 15th March until Friday 18th March.

Encompassing everything that is great about jump racing, The Festival will see over £4.1 million awarded across 28 races featuring the finest horses, jockeys and trainers who are set to battle it out for the highest racing honours.

Nothing compares to the roar of the crowd when the tapes go up for the first day of Champion Day: Tuesday 15th March launches The Festival and includes a packed sevenrace card including the most important 2 mile hurdle race of the season, the Stan James Champion Hurdle.

for many people, the highlight of The Festival. This year’s race is gearing up to be the race of the season.

The climax of the entire jump racing season is Friday’s Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup; the highlight of arguably the best day’s racing of the year, with an atmosphere to match.

Cheltenham Racecourse is offering a range of advanced booking discounts for The Festival, offered exclusively

by The Jockey Club and unavailable from third-parties, booking in advance ensures that customers get the best deal available. To book tickets visit www.cheltenham.

Wednesday 16th March is Ladies Day; whether it is an

co.uk or call 0344 579 3003. For more information or to

extra feather in a beautiful hat, the highest heels in a

book Chez Roux Packages please call the Cheltenham

lady’s cupboard or for the men their very best tweed,

Racecourse sales team on 01242 537 653.

Competition For your chance to win two Club tickets to Ladies Day at Cheltenham Racecourse simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the

Answer: Name:

following question:

On what day is Ladies Day at The Cheltenham Festival?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Ladies Day WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP.ISSUE Closing date for entries is 17th February 2016.

152

52

WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

Address: Tel: Email:

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

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

53

our events diary

2016 off to a flying start

for Birmingham airport 2015 was a hugely successful year for Birmingham Airport with the ten million passenger mark smashed and the introduction of seven new airlines. 2016 is shaping up to match 2015, with four new airlines launching between now and the end of April.

points. The route will be operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner with both Business and Economy Class seats. Flying in to Doha’s state-of-the-art hub, Hamad International Airport, passengers will have a choice of 152 destinations onward served by the airline, including South East Asia, China and Australasia. The 787 is a new experience in travel with lower cabin pressure, improved air quality and optimal humidity ensuring passengers arrived feeling refreshed.

C

Part of the same group, the IAG Group, Iberia will fly onveniently located Birmingham Airport is just eight miles from Birmingham city centre, serving a catchment of 35 million people within a two hour drive and ten million within

an hour dive. Its proximity to the major road and rail networks means it is easily accessible by car and public transport. Birmingham International, its neighbouring train station, is accessed by a 90 second transfer facility providing connections to 45 stations. As well as providing convenient access to the M40/M42 and M6. Birmingham Airport really is the country’s best connected airport.

With over 50 carriers, Birmingham Airport offers 40 direct destinations including triple daily flights to Dubai, double daily flights to Istanbul and New York, Delhi, Paris and Amsterdam. Home to a number of major flag carriers the onward destinations are endless and the rest of the world is in reach.

54

to the Spanish capital, Madrid four times a week from March. This airline will benefit from the British Airways flight code too meaning passengers can still collect and use their Avios Points. The flights are scheduled to offer onward connections to another 34 Iberia destinations in Spain, Portugal, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Bucharest operated by Blue Air starts in March too. This twice weekly flight to the Romanian capital will be using a 737 to take passengers to this bustling metropolis.

A popular weekend break destination for families, groups and couples. Take time out to visit the Palace of Parliament, the world’s second largest building after the Pentagon or the Orthodox churches that are tucked away with their beautiful architecture. If you’re after rest or relaxation the plethora of cafes awaits you or just watch the world go by in the many parks.

Prague will again be easily accessible from Birmingham

Four new airlines will start operating from Birmingham

when CSA Czech Airlines launch a five times a

Airport by the end of April. The world’s five star airline,

week service to the Czech Republic capital in April.

Qatar, will serve Doha eight times a week making the

Steeped in history it is known for its Old Town Square.

Arabian Peninsula even easier to visit. Qatar, part of

With so much to see make sure you don’t miss the

the International Airlines Group (IAG), will strengthen

Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410 it’s the third

the connections that Birmingham already offers to

oldest in the world! There is so much to see make sure

Africa, Asia and beyond. Being part of the IAG Group

you spend a few days exploring the Gothic churches,

ensures passengers can top up and use their Avios

ancient chapels and old-fashioned bars. Prague is

ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

our events diary

muted to be as beautiful as Paris so make sure this is

from Birmingham three times a day this new aircraft

a destination on your list to visit for 2016.

will add an extra 188 seats to the lunchtime service.

Wizz Air, which last year started routes to the Polish city of Warsaw and Poznan and the Hungarian city Budapest, will be expanding again in 2016 offering flights to Wroclaw, Bucharest and Sofia from the summer season. The airline has grown massively at Birmingham as passengers take advantage of the

With 15 years of service from Birmingham Airport the airline has gone from strength to strength. If you want to visit Dubai or further afield this is all possible on the Emirates’ extensive network from Birmingham.

Onward destinations include Perth, Sydney, Bangkok, Mumbai and Hong Kong.

lower fares and these fabulous destinations for the

So if you’re planning your summer holiday or a city

first time. Wroclaw in Poland and Sofia in Bulgaria are

break then look no further than Birmingham Airport,

new routes to Birmingham Airport giving passengers

we really do have something for everyone.

the chance to visit these destinations. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, offers over 2000 years of history in Roman, Greek, Soviet and Ottoman occupation, a real treat for a culture-vulture. Wroclaw is a destination for both leisure and business passengers. It is the fourth largest city in Poland for commercial, educational and industrial industries. On its cultural side there is much to visit and see with theatres, parks and nightlife.

Finally a new addition for 2016 sees Emirates bring in the A380 double-deck, wide body four engine aircraft on its lunchtime service. Already serving Dubai direct

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our events diary

FEBRUARY Throught February Family pottery sessions Eastnor Pottery Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD Cost: Starts from £5 Tel: 01531 633886 Harry Potter book night The Hive The Butts Worcester WR1 3PD www.thehiveworcester.org Friday 5th Craig Ogden Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £18.00 www.artrix.co.uk Friday 5th & Saturday 6th The Sound Of Music Malvern Theatres Grange Road Great Malvern WR14 3HB Cost: Ticket prices vary www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Saturday 6th Oye Santana: Carlos Santana Tribute Huntingdon Hall Crowngate WR1 3LD Cost: £17.50 www.worcesterlive.co.uk

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

Indoor Car boot sale Lyppard Hub Warndon Villages Worcester Tel: 01905 616841

Grange Road Great Malvern WR14 3HB Cost: £33-35 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

The Best Thing Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £14.00 www.artrix.co.uk

Saturday 13th Wille & The Bandits Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £12.50 www.artrix.co.uk

Sunday 7th Young Farmers' Drama Festival Norbury Theatre Friar Street Droitwich Spa WR9 8ED Cost: Ticket prices vary www.norburytheatre.co.uk Tuesday 9th Life & Times of Lancelot Capability Brown Croome National Trust High Green WR8 9DW Cost: £15 per person Tel: 01905 371006 Thursday 11th Fay Hield Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £15.00 www.artrix.co.uk Thursday 11th & Friday 12th Russian State Ballet & Orchestra Of Siberia: The Snow Maiden Malvern Theatres

Worcester Park Run Worcester Woods Country Park Wildwood Drive WR5 2LG Worcester parkrun.org.uk/worcester Johnny Cash Roadshow Swan Theatre The Moors Worcester WR1 3ED Cost: £19.50 www.theswantheatre.co.uk Chris & Pui Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £12.00 www.artrix.co.uk Barnstormers Comedy Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ www.artrix.co.uk Wednesday 17th ‘Raining cats & dogs'

>>

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our events diary

children's pottery session Eastnor Pottery Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD Cost: £15 per child Tel: 01531 633886 Thursday 18th Rory McGrath Remembers (...or is it forgets?)

Rory McGrath Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £14.00 www.artrix.co.uk Thursday 18th Saturday 20th The Guide to Being Single Norbury Theatre Friar Street Droitwich Spa WR9 8ED Cost: Ticket prices vary www.norburytheatre.co.uk Friday 19th 20th Anniversary UK Tour: Gretchen Peters Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £22.50 www.artrix.co.uk Russian State Ballet & Orchestra Of Siberia: The Snow Maiden Malvern Theatres Grange Road Great Malvern

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016

WR14 3HB Cost: £33-35 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Did King John Love Worcester?

Chapter Office 8 College Yard Worcester WR1 2LA Cost: £6 per person Tel: 01905 732900 Saturday 20th Atomic Blondie, The Bowie Experience Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £16.50 www.artrix.co.uk The Temple Brothers: Everly Brothers Tribute Huntingdon Hall Crowngate WR1 3LD Cost: Ticket prices vary www.worcesterlive.co.uk

Cost: £7.00 www.artrix.co.uk Monday 22nd - Saturday 27th Russian State Ballet & Orchestra Of Siberia: The Snow Maiden Malvern Theatres Grange Road WR14 3HB Cost: £33-35 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Wednesday 24th Woman in Gold (12A) Norbury Theatre Friar Street Droitwich Spa WR9 8ED Cost: Ticket prices vary www.norburytheatre.co.uk Friday 26th Captive and Underground Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £10.00 www.artrix.co.uk

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st Fifty Shades of Beige Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ Cost: £10.00 www.artrix.co.uk

Saturday 27th Comedy Skool Show Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ www.artrix.co.uk

Sunday 21st The Remarkable Tales of Oliver Twist Red Earth Theatre Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ

Sunday 28th Words: Rufus Norris Artrix Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove B60 1PQ From: £15.00 www.artrix.co.uk

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

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ISSUE 152 WORCESTERSHIRE Now FEBRUARY 2016