Worcestershire Now - FEBRUARY 2022

Worcestershire

Now

Pupils grow, thrive and flourish at King’s See page 35 for more information

DECLUTTER YOUR HOME POST-PANDEMIC WEDDINGS TAKING CARE OF YOUR FUTURE FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 214 t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n

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

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

Worcestershire

08

Now

20

18 FEBRUARY 2022 HOME & GARDEN 08

Declutter Your Home

12

How to Stop Condensation on Windows

16

Darren Spencer - A Bright Spark

18

Nature Notebook

22

HEALTH & BEAUTY 20

Valentine’s Day

28

WEDDINGS 22

Post-Pandemic Weddings

GOLDEN YEARS 28

Taking Care of Your Future

32

Leading the Way for Residential and Dementia Care

38

EDUCATION 34

City Sixth Formers Exhibit at the Museum of Royal Worcester

35

Shaped by King’s

36

Transform Your Future

34

WHAT’S ON 38

What’s On

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

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd

EDITOR

ADVERTISING

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

DESIGN

Lis Gardner Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk

Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter Alvechurch Legal Amberley Books Discover History Ideal Care Homes NHS St Richards Hospice Worcester Sixth Form Worcester Theatres

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

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

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

THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA CITY COUNCIL TAKES ACTION TO SUPPORT WORCESTER CAB

Worcester City Council has awarded a grant of £20,000 to the city’s Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) to help it increase its capacity to support local people during what is expected to be an exceptionally busy period.

The start of the new year always brings a surge in inquiries to Worcester CAB, particularly in the areas of debt, benefits, housing and employment. The impact of the ongoing pandemic is expected to further increase the demands for the CAB’s services.

The City Council has made the award from its £337,000 share of the Government’s Household Support Fund (HSF), designed to help people who may struggle this winter to meet their basic needs, such as food and energy.

Sonya Gregory, Advice Services Manager for Citizens Advice Worcester, said: “We are pleased to have been awarded funding from Worcester City Council. This will make a difference to the level of service we can offer the local community. We will be able to employ staff to help people with the complex problems they are experiencing.

“This additional resource will be able to work alongside our volunteers when the more specialised areas of advice are required.

“Advice services are particularly important at the moment, as many people have found themselves facing difficult problems due to the financial and social consequences of the Covid-19 crisis and are not sure where to turn... We would like to thank Worcester

JOIN OUR SHOPS’ TEAM URGES HOSPICE

A

Worcestershire-based

hospice

is encouraging people to join their volunteer team this year in the charity’s 18 shops around the county.

St Richard’s Hospice is hoping that at least 150 new volunteers will swell their ranks to help run the stores, which raise vital income towards the hospice’s care of patients and families living with a serious progressive illness.

St Richard’s Shops Director, Dan Corns said, “If you’re looking to meet new people, improve your wellbeing and give something back then look no further than your local St Richard’s Hospice shop. Our volunteers tell us that these are three of the things they love most about working in our shops, along

support, through the sale of good quality clothes, bric-a-brac, books and furniture donated by local people.

Each year the hospice team supports more than 2,900 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.

with enjoying being part of a team.”

St Richard’s already has 400 active shop

volunteers

who

are

the

charity’s face within the community.

In the year 2019/20, pre-pandemic, volunteers donated 92,000 hours of their time to help in the shops.

Last year the shops raised over £500,000, with government Covid-

It costs £8.75m to run the hospice (20/21 audited accounts), which includes patient care and all the necessary support services.

St Richard’s is an independent charity and relies on donations and gifts in Wills for the majority of its income with the remainder funded by the NHS. n

n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

our service.”

Councillor Marc Bayliss, Leader of Worcester City Council, said: “The start of 2022 is another uncertain time for people across Worcester, and many will need the support that the CAB can offer. I am very pleased that we have been able to provide financial support to this very important organisation.”

Worcester CAB is based in The Hopmarket, off The Foregate. City residents who need advice and support can call for free on 0808 278 7891 or text the word ADVICE followed by their name & postcode to 0786 00 77 311. Support is also available online at citizensadviceworcester.org.uk. n

50 GEMS OF HEREFORDSHIRE THE HISTORY & HERITAGE OF THE MOST ICONIC PLACES Herefordshire has had the mixed blessing

Anyone able to volunteer is asked to call into their local shop to chat with the manager about the volunteer opportunities available, register interest via the St Richard’s website www.strichards.org.uk or call them on 01905 763963.

St Richard’s Hospice cares for adults with a serious progressive illness, improving their quality of life from diagnosis, during treatment and to their last days. It also supports their loved ones.

City Council for their ongoing support of

of being a border county, predominately rural and far away from any metropolis.

Lying between England and Wales, its past has been bloody, with raids and an unstable boundary.

Borders

are

always

porous

and much Welsh influence can be found, especially in the west of the county.

The county did not play a major part in the Industrial Revolution, which meant it became something of a backwater. Its unspoilt countryside provided a pleasant place to visit, but not such an easy place to make a living. Herefordshire can make the claim of being the birthplace of tourism as rich travellers, thwarted by the Napoleonic War from making the Grand Tour of Europe, found journeys down the beautiful River Wye some compensation.

Now modernity is making changes to the county, with pressure for more houses, large-scale agriculture and the climate crisis all having their effect, but Herefordshire remains an intriguing and fascinating place.

In 50 Gems of Herefordshire, local author David Phelps visits some of the favourite and lesser-known locations that reflect its heritage, culture and scenic splendour. From churches to castles and cider factory to cathedral, this is a county with much to discover and enjoy. Well-illustrated throughout, this book will appeal to residents and visitors alike. n Available from www.amberley-books.com

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 5 n

HERE & NOW

The Perfect OXO Family?

Legal

“I have re-written the Will and they (Lynda’s

explores the problems faced by Lynda

sons) will get nothing from me.” Michael told

Bellinham’s family after her death.

the Daily Mail.

When actress Lynda Bellingham died in 2014,

Can Michael do that?

her sons were left an unexpected nightmare.

In a word: yes. Having executed Mirror WIlls,

Laura

Hawkins

from

Alvechurch

Lynda and her husband, Michael, made Mirror Wills, in which Lynda left her entire estate to her third husband, expecting him to leave her share of their combined assets to her sons on her death.

“We both wrote wills as a married couple and they mirrored each other in how we would leave our estate.” admitted Michael.

Lynda will undoubtedly felt that she could trust her husband to carry out her wishes and provide for her sons. But, it turns out that her trust was misplaced. What actually followed was a very public dispute between Lynda’s husband and her sons...

Michael decided to re-write his own WIll, disinheriting them altogether and leaving

Lynda passed all her assets to Michael when she died. His promise to look after her sons was never legally enforceable. Lynda’s assets are now Michael’s to do with as he wishes.

There is nothing in law to prevent Michael going back on his promise and re-writing his earlier Will.

Can ths be prevented?

Sadly, these types of disputes are common

Estate planning is complicated. This is why

amongst families, but they are preventable.

it is important you speak to someone like

Property Protection Wills could have been set up to safeguard her properties for both her husband and her sons.

This

would

have

Laura from Alvechurch Legal Serivces, who specialises in offering sound advice.

If you would like to discuss updating your WIlls, you can contact Alvechurch

protected

her

son’s

inheritance, whilst ensuring that Michael’s had somewhere to live for the rest of his life. n

Legal Services on 0121 445 3307 or email laura@alvechurchlegal.co.uk Or

everything to his own children.

visit

their

website

at

www.alvechurchlegal.co.uk

Worcester Theatres’ Beauty & the Beast finishes their Panto run in triumph! the most shows performed of any panto in

Beauty and the Beast was also met with

Worcestershire, which seems like an incredible

accolades from local press; Choice Radio

achievement during these difficult times.

Worcester gave it five stars and said “If you

Sarah-Jane

Morgan,

Chief

Executive

of

Worcester Theatres said “I was simply delighted to get through the complete run of Beauty and the Beast. A 59 show run, plus two

are looking for an enchanting evening out with the family, with all you would expect from a panto, then you really only have to travel as far as the Swan Theatre”.

week rehearsal period is a tremendous task to

Theatre blogger and reviewer John Philpott

Worcester Theatres brought their famed family pantomime back this year with Beauty & the Beast, and the tale as old as time was a huge hit with Worcestershire audiences. Despite uncertainties surrounding the pandemic for everyone this season, the cast, crew and staff at Worcester Theatres worked hard to ensure the safety of themselves and their audiences throughout the pantomime run, and in return they received glowing feedback for each of their performances.

undertake at any time but in the current climate

had this to say “Worcester Rep has undoubtedly

some may have thought it near impossible! I

built on the city’s proud panto tradition to

was so grateful to make it safely through the

deliver a Christmas cracker of a show. This is

complete run when other theatres across the

indeed a show that explodes with talent!”

Many theatres were affected by Covid-19 during the panto season, with some having their performances delayed, interrupted, and even cancelled. The Worcester Theatres team managed to make it through a total of 59 shows, n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

country were sadly forced to close early due to the pandemic. Our patrons from Worcester

It’s clear to see Worcester Theatres’ pantomime

and the wider ‘shire’ were utterly fabulous and

was a roaring success that delighted and

supported us with a commitment that was so

entertained its audiences – an incredible

heartfelt, flooding through the doors of the

achievement and exactly what Worcester

Swan Theatre proving their undying support

wants from its local arts organisations during

for live theatre and the arts in the city.”

these trying times. n

Audiences both old and new commented

Worcester

on the exceptional quality of the Worcester

Repertory Company will be back later in the

Repertory Company cast, the set design, the

year with Cinderella, from 29th November

music and the overall atmosphere created at

2022 – 02nd January 2023, performing at the

the Swan Theatre.

Swan Theatre. Tickets are available to buy now.

Theatres

and

the

Worcester

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

HOME & GARDEN

r e tt u l

c e D

n’t

is ring

Sp

n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

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wa ar a

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e m o H n.

dee

ea p cl

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www.ensignroof.co.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 9 n

HOME & GARDEN

that

you’ve come full circle and nothing has been

seemed like a good idea at

done. Look for the most obvious pieces of

the time, are now strewn in the

rubbish, the packaging or bits of paper that

corner of the room; the 1000 piece jigsaw that

have been forgotten about and that serve no

was once the perfect picture is now missing

purpose. Bin them, then you can start to focus

seven vital components. It’s time to have a

on what you do and do not want.

The

Christmas

toys

sort out. Separate what you love from what you loathe and organise ready for the warmer months. We give our top tips to declutter and freshen your home.

Keep Decluttering your home doesn’t mean that you have to empty your house completely. Having the bare minimum is not functional for everyday

Having a tidy home helps manage stress and

use. However, what you do need to think about

improve your well-being. Clearing out the

is what you need for daily life and part with

home from clutter can help reduce anxiety

things you don’t need in the near future. The

and give you more time to focus on the things

aim is to get rid of the items you don’t use most

you love about life. Follow these easy steps

of the time and keep the ones you do. Think

to help you get a more tranquil living space.

about when the last time you used the item

Write it down Plan what you would like to do in your home.

Is there a particular area that needs attention first? Giving yourself a ‘to do list’ can help you methodically work through areas that are problematic. A children’s play area may need more storage space, or a cleaning up rota for

and the last time you thought ‘Do I really need this?’ For example, for someone who doesn’t use make-up on a daily basis, I have 5 mascaras.

Not necessary and takes up valuable space in the cosmetic drawer. What you’ll find is you’ll have more space in your home to dedicate to what you love.

the little ones to follow. Plan ahead and decide

Store away

how you want to declutter the space. Get the

Anything that you find that you can’t bear to

tools you need in order to do so and set a time

throw away, but don’t have space to put it

for yourself on each area. Take time to plan

out on display, can always go into storage.

your home and how you want it to look.

Whether it’s up in the attic or garage with your

One at a time Always start with one room at a time. Pick the one that is going to take up the most of your energy and work your way methodically, drawer

Christmas decorations or in a bigger storage unit away from your home, there is no need to drastically erase every memory or keepsake from your life.

by drawer, box by box. There is nothing more

Donate

frustrating than starting with one room, getting

There are many ways to dispose of your old

distracted and starting to clear up another

items. Once you have separated your old

mess in another area of the house, only to find

clothes and toys, one of the ways to find

n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

them a new home is by donating them to family/friends and charities. There are many charity shops in and around Worcestershire that will gladly take your clean and dry items.

Household Recycling Centres (HRC) are provided in Worcestershire for the residents of the county to recycle and dispose of their household waste. Local community organisations in Worcester will pass on your unwanted furniture, electrical items, bicycles and other household items to people in need or make them available at low cost. They often also have other social benefits such as providing support to adults with disabilities or offering employment and training. n

By Daisy Bennett

HOME & GARDEN

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 11 n

HOME & GARDEN

How to stop condensation on windows Stop condensation on windows inside your home for clear panes and a healthier living environment – with or without a dehumidifier. the colder months. Temperature fluctuations, especially the temperature plummeting around dawn, are very often responsible for condensation forming on windows.

Condensation on windows is common in all types of homes.

Though not just reserved for winter, it’s more prominent at this time of year as the cool weather outside leaves window panes and the air pockets in-between double glazing at a much lower temperature compared to the airflow inside our homes.

Condensation on the inside of windows is actually different from other forms of dampness, such as rain and rising damp. It is water released when air is cooled to its dewpoint temperature and unable to carry so much moisture as vapor – the opposite process to evaporation.

So this can happen indoors whenever warm, damp air comes into contact with colder objects, like windows. If not dealt with, condensation will have you looking for ways to get rid of mold quickly and at worst, dealing with wood decay or an unhealthy living environment.

James Mokler, Retail Assistant Product Manager at Kärcher says, ‘The build-up of condensation occurs when the air inside of the room is warmer than the surface temperature of the window (or any surface).

As most are turning up their heating during the colder months and keeping up with daily activities such as cooking, showering, even breathing, condensation builds up faster and at a more frequent rate.’

Is Condensation on Windows Bad? ‘Unwanted moisture in homes can cause structural and aesthetic damage such as mould, damp walls, and ceilings, rotting windowsills and frames, and can be costly to fix if not dealt with early on. Mould and damp also pose a health risk. According to the NHS website, if there is damp and mould in a home, the occupants are more likely to have respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies leaving babies, children, and the elderly most at risk*.’

Buildings (SPAB), gives us his expert guidance and insights on the causes of condensation in houses and how to avoid them.

How to Prevent Condensation on Windows In homes, old or new, simple lifestyle changes that lower humidity and/or keep surface temperatures above dewpoint will be more practical and a less expensive longterm solution than installing whole-house ventilation systems. Try these tips below: 1. Ventilate The key is to generate less moisture but some is of course inevitable so, open windows where you can and avoid draft-proofing windows in kitchens and bathrooms.

This is especially important if you live in a small, open-plan flat without an efficient extractor fan or air bricks, as there’s nowhere for all the moisture to go. So, open the windows often, especially when cooking, and crack them open while you’re in bed.

‘Ensuring that there’s a regular warm temperature around your home will stop surfaces from getting cold enough for condensation to build. The heating doesn’t need to be on constantly throughout the day, but a timer can be used to switch on the heating during the coldest periods, keeping surfaces warm and preventing condensation from forming.’ Says Mokler. The trick is not to blast your home with hot air for short periods of time and leave it cold the rest of the time.

An even, continuous low heat setting is better.

3. Invest in Better Insulation ‘If condensation is a recurring issue in your home, it may be worth investing in reinsulating the wallsof the house. This will not only keep your home warm and reduce costs for heating, but having good insulation greatly determines how much condensation builds up and how long it takes to dry.’ Notes Mokler.

4. Start Cooking with Lids If ventilation is a little poor in your home and in the kitchen more specifically, try and cook with lids on to stop the steam escaping so much. ‘Keeping windows open during activities that cause a lot of moisture in the home such as cooking, showering, and drying clothes, especially if you don’t have great ventilation, can help minimise condensation.’ Recommends Mokler also.

Mokler recommends even opening the windows for just 20 minutes a day as this can be enough to drastically reduce the effects of condensation and dampness in homes.

5. Dry Clothes Outside Weather-permitting of course, but damp laundry in an unventilated room is a recipe for water droplets on those windows of yours (and a musty smell as a result of that).

Ensure also that lofts, floor voids and redundant chimneys are well ventilated and avoid foam treatments on the underside of roofs that can cause timber decay.

6. Keep Humidity in its Place Close kitchen and bathroom doors when in use to trap humidity in its tracks.

There are ways to tackle condensation on windows that can successfully get the moisture balance back in your home to prevent future condensation on the inside of different types of windows.

2. Monitor Heating Increased heating can maintain surfaces above dewpoint, especially if run constantly at a low level rather than intermittently. Lagging cold pipes may prevent surface condensation, as can improved insulation levels.

‘Drawing in moisture from the room before it has time to manifest can be an easy way to combat condensation. Some unconventional methods include putting cat litter in a sock, tying it up and placing it on a windowsill.

Putting a bowl of salt on the windowsill has also proven to be a good hack.’ Says Mokler.

Douglas Kent, technical and research director for the Society for the Protection of Ancient

So to stop condensation from forming is to keep your heating on a low setting throughout

n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

SM

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www.aaoutdoors.co.uk Find us on Facebook at Andrew Alexander Outdoors for an extensive gallery of photos t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 13 n

HOME & GARDEN 7. Keep Dryer Vents Clear

10. Open Curtains

Keep vent tumble driers to the outside if

Keep curtains open to stop trapping moisture

not of the condenser type. And, be sure to

and heat on the window panes. This will stop

clean your dryer vent often to keep it doing

wet curtains also which is never nice.

its job efficiently.

Should I Wipe Condensation from Windows?

8.Turn Down Your Humidifier

You can wipe away condensation on

If you’re using a humidifier, and condensation

windows using a microfiber cloth but you

has recently become a problem, try to turn

can also use a window vacuums, like the

it down for short periods at a time until you

Kärcher WV to quickly remove excess water

see an improvement.

from inside windows.

9. Or, Choose a Dehumidifier

‘They’re also a great time-saver as the powerful

‘Those in Victorian properties or more trad

and rechargeable lithium-ion battery can clean

homes wouldn’t be without one of the best

up to 75 windows on one charge - getting the

dehumidifiersaround as older homes are

job done three times faster than conventional

more prone to damp and condensation.

cleaning methods. What’s more, window

Try the other methods ahead of investing.

vacuums can be used on any flat surface in

Mokler adds ‘If you’re able to invest in the

the home including windows, showers, and

solution, there are some great humidifiers on

mirrors, ensuring they all stay spotless and

the market which absorb all the moisture in

streak-free.’ Adds Mokler.

the air.’

Why do I get so much Condensation

You might not want a dehumidifier running

on the Inside of my Windows?

at night in a bedroom, but if you put yours on

This is all due to the moisture levels in your

after you get up and time it to switch off an

home but it could also be that the moisture

hour or so later, it’ll stop condensation and its

is managing to seep through between both

effects from becoming a problem. And in case

window panes as the sealant is old and worn.

you were wondering, dehumidifiers use very

If it’s quite saturated, consider replacing your

little energy (much less than tumble dryers) to

windows or the sealant. Otherwise, you should

run, so you won’t see a hike in your energy bills.

be able to sort it out using the above tips.

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

Is Condensation on Windows Normal?

It is totally normal, condensation can arise when more moisture is produced – often from cooking or washing. Insufficient ventilation is the main cause, for example, due to doubleglazing, blocking of flues and air bricks, or incorrect installation of roofing underlay.

Condensation occurs mostly in winter, but can appear throughout all seasons depending on your home and climate. And might first be noticed when water droplets form on hard surfaces, or mold appears on absorbent finishes.

What is known as ‘interstitial’ condensation occurs within the building materials and elements. For example, if a wall is covered with an impermeable barrier or renders that doesn’t allow moisture to pass through the wall naturally.

If the condensation problem you have seems to be more than one you can solve yourself, it will be worth employing an independent chartered surveyor or consultant (not a contractor with a vested commercial interest); they can carry out a more detailed investigation if required. n www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/ lifestyle/can-damp-and-mould-affect-myhealth/

HOME & GARDEN

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 15 n

HOME & GARDEN

Darren Spencer

A Bright Spark

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

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

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

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

Darren Spencer Electrical are proud to be approved by the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC). Having the backing by the UK’s leading voluntary regulatory body for the electrical contracting industry, gives their customers the confidence that all electrical work being carried out will be completed to the highest standard. Plus, they are TrustMark certified, an accreditation that can only be n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

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

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

HOME & GARDEN

Damp patches on upstairs ceilings, slipped slates or plaster coming off the walls are signs your property requires a new roof or replacement.

We have found that many properties simply do not have the protection needed underneath the roof to prevent leaks and keep the heat in. Should it become clear that your property is in need of re-roofing, make sure you choose Abbeywell Contractors, we take pride in only using the best materials and always working to BS5534 Roofing Standards.

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 17 n

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Great Tit © Yana Northen

Feed the Birds

Brrrr, it’s cold out there…are you giving our feathered friends a helping hand?

If you feed the birds you’ve got something in common with more than half the UK’s households. Gardens can offer important refuges for birds and other wildlife.

In the last 50 to 60 years, we’ve lost an estimated 44 million breeding birds in the UK so the fat ball or seed that you put out each day may be a lifeline for some of your avian visitors.

What should you put out, though? High-energy sunflower seeds are a favourite; goldfinches were once tempted into gardens for nyger seeds but, in my garden at least, these don’t get a second look-in if sunflower seeds are available. If you’ve got a peanut feeder, expect to see blue and great tits regularly.

If you’re lucky you’ll get a party of long-tailed tits clustering around it or perhaps even a great spotted woodpecker flying in. Keep these high energy treats in a wire mesh feeder (don’t use nylon mesh) so that birds aren’t able to take them whole, especially during the breeding season when nestlings can easily choke on them.

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

Suet provides a great energy boost and, as well as buying fat balls and blocks, you can make your own by melting lard or suet (animal fats offer longer-lasting energy than vegetable-based versions) and rolling it in seeds before hanging it out. A good seed mix will include sunflowers and smaller seeds like millet, which will attract birds from house sparrows to chaffinches.

Avoid mixes that contain lots of wheat, barley or split peas as these are usually only polished off by bigger birds like wood pigeons.

n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

If you’ve got the space, offer some natural food – from apple trees to berry-laden shrubs to not cutting back ivy until early spring. Not dead-heading plants like teasels, lavender, sunflowers and verbena will give goldfinches and other birds the chance to eat the seeds. Nooks, crannies, log piles and leaf litter all provide shelter for minibeasts that dunnocks and wrens can hunt for and feast on.

You can throw out table scraps but check that they don’t include sugar or salt. Cooking fat – in fact, anything that’s sticky or smeary – is bad news as it can affect insulation and waterproofing if a bird wipes their beak on its feathers. Bread should only be put out in small quantities because it has such limited nutritional value (soaked is better than dry and brown is better than white).

Hang feeders out of the way of ground predators like cats and, if possible, site them a metre or two from the cover of bushes or trees. Don’t forget to clean both feeders and birdbaths regularly to reduce the chance of disease transmission.

Watching the birds that come to your feeders can provide hours of entertainment. You’ll get to see the different characters of different species and learn how they interact. If you’ve got a camera handy, you might even be able to capture the action and enter our photo competition – the photo above is one of last year’s winners. Find out more at www. worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/photography-competition n

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 19 n

FASHION HEALTH & BEAUTY

Valentine's Day Take inspiration from our top gifts this Valentines Day.

HAND & LOCK The Lovers Tarot Card Embroidered Patch £17

FALKE Love Letter Socks £18

MARC CAIN Printed Scarf £119

LAINES LONDON AT THE BIAS CUT Gold & Pearl Pink Fluffy Slippers £35 n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

TATEOSSIAN Rose Lapel Pin (Unisex) £115

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HEALTH &FASHION BEAUTY

Date Night Steak Night

Choose any two dishes plus a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc or Merlot Every Wednesday night choose any two of the following dishes, all cooked to your liking and served with a choice of Chunky chips, skinny fries, or crushed new potatoes. Accompanied by a traditional garnish, and a bottle of house Merlot or Sauvignon Blanc!

£30

2 x 8oz British Rump 2 x 10oz Pork Loin 2 x West Atlantic Red Snapper

£40

2 x 8oz British Sirloin 2 x 8oz Welsh Lamb Rump 2 x Scottish salmon fillet

£50

Including a bottle of Prosecco

2 x 8oz British Fillet 2 x Sea bass Fillet 2 x 12oz British T-Bone Steak

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Any two sides for £7 or £4.00 each Golden beer battered onion rings Bacon Mac and cheese bites Balsamic infused field mushroom Three cheese Arancini Chargrilled corn on the cob Free range fried egg

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Tel: 01905 619031 www.embraceluxurylingerie.co.uk www.embracecancerbeauty.co.uk t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 21 n

WEDDINGS

i m e d n

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n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

WEDDINGS

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

WEDDINGS

Last year, the marriage rate fell by 69% in the UK, with approximately 73,600 weddings and same-sex civil partnership ceremonies postponed to 2021/2022. Those who were lucky enough to wed had to limit the number of guests, host virtual ceremonies, socially distance, and scrap the reception buffet. But as the economy slowly tries to rebuild, we reveal several pandemic wedding trends that will emerge after the pandemic.

Go Digital The industry implemented a digital model during lockdown, and the demand from couples continues to grow. With the likes of businesses adjusting to the ‘new normal’ offering virtual bridal appointments and online venue tours, planning a wedding has been made easier for future brides and grooms. Livestreaming a wedding was once reserved for celebrities and royalty, but thanks to clever technology platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Skype, loved ones are able to attend virtually on the big day.

Make your wedding Eco Friendly The growing trend towards supporting local businesses and minimising environmental

impact will continue to influence couples’ planning decisions. Reports suggest that just one wedding alone can produce as much as 20kg of plastic waste – from cups, gift bags and fake confetti. Shifting to more sustainable décor such as invitations made from recycled paper, vegan menus, and composting any leftovers will help to reduce landfill waste and better impact the environment. These accessories can

Worcestershire

Now

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

Rachel Seabright

Lis Gardner

rachel@pw-media.co.uk

lis@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727900

Tel: 01905 727901

n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727904

kate@pw-media.co.uk

be bought from small and independent businesses found locally in Worcestershire.

New research from North London Waste Authority (NLWA) also shows that two in five people planning weddings in the next five years say making their wedding as green as possible is a key priority. See www.nlwa.gov. uk for more information..

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

WEDDINGS

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

WEDDINGS

menus. Those choosing to avoid or reduce their alcohol intake for personal or wellness reasons will add another trend to future weddings. Offering a quality soft drink menu combined with mocktails make your sober guest feel as welcome as the ‘party people’ Creative catering A wedding cake doesn’t need to be four feet tall and traditionally flavoured – more and more couples are personalising their cake as smaller guestlists have led to innovation.

Planners are seeing unique cupcakes designs and spectacular grazing boards flood their Pinterest and Instagram feeds.

Small, intimate weddings As a result of lockdown restrictions and budget restraints, the desire for more intimate events gained popularity. The option enabled couples to hold a celebration sooner than expected and, on a money,-friendly basis.

So if you’re searching for a wedding venue in Worcestershire check out smaller, more intimate venues like boutique hotels.

Research conducted by wedding planning website Hitched reveals that getting hitched midweek is considerably cheaper than

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

weekend weddings because there’s less of a demand for them. Many couples are also choosing to buck the trend completely, shunning extravagance in favour of a microwedding. Opting for a smaller ceremony gives you more freedom, lessens the nerves, and allows for quality time with your guests.

Hygiene is also at the forefront of everyone’s

Sober-curious ceremonies Champagne, an open bar, alcohol has always been seen as essential for the big day, but more and more couples are putting alcohol-free alternatives on their wedding

Businesses,

minds, so serving individual portions rids the worry of a cramped buffet and shared cutlery.

According to research, couples needlessly throw out a tenth of all their wedding food – this is whopping £488 of food waste at the average sized wedding. brands,

and

suppliers

are

continue adapting to consumer demands – from the venue to the vows – to ensure they offer the best possible experience for future newlyweds. n

WEDDINGS

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

GOLDEN YEARS

Taking Care of Your Future

Will you need to sell your home to pay for your future care? How can you fund any support you need without losing your home? What exactly are the changes to social care and what do they mean for older people living in Worcestershire?

Here, Sara Simson, Partner at Redditch law firm, FBC Manby Bowdler explains more about the reforms which will be made law in 2023 and why it’s more important than ever to start planning for your future care so you and your family are not left out of pocket.

So, what’s new?

The Government recently announced changes to social care, which will come into effect in October 2023. The new regulations were meant to tackle unfairness in the way the social care system is funded, however, when you get into the details of the new legislation, it hasn’t really levelled the playing field at all.

England will need to spend on their personal care over their lifetime. The Government announced the £86,000 limit to put a stop to unpredictable and unlimited care costs and ensure that people who pay for their own care (self-funders) can access better value care but the ‘care cap’ is very misleading and that is why it has been debated a lot in parliament and in the press.

The ‘care cap’ small print The first thing to be aware of is that care is the only thing covered by the care cap. It covers the amount you will pay over your lifetime for the care you need but it doesn’t include your daily living costs such as food, utilities and any non-nursing care, should

Many people will still have to spend a lot of their own savings or sell their house to pay for their own care later in life, even with the introduction of the ‘care cap’.

you move into a care home.

The so-called ‘care cap’ is a big part of the social care reforms, and it is being introduced to put a limit on the amount anyone in

£3,000 per month. However, when you look

n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

How might this affect you? Let us look at an example. If you are living with dementia in a care home, you may be paying care fees of

to the delivery of care and the other £2,000 is associated with daily living costs.

Therefore only £1,000 counts towards the care cap while the other £2,000 does not.

In fact, based on the average period of time someone stays in care and the difference between care costs and daily living costs, most care residents will never hit the £86,000 cap. So whilst you may not pay more than £86,000 towards your care, this doesn’t mean you will not pay more than £86,000 for your stay in a care home as a whole when the daily living costs are factored in.

Why is this important? Because the money you will be paying for your living costs (which can add a considerable amount onto the weekly cost of your care) will not be taken into account when the Government decides how much you should be contributing to your own care, and this could eat through any savings or assets you have very quickly.

at the breakdown of those fees, it may be the case that only £1,000 of that invoice relates

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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

GOLDEN YEARS

The second thing you need to be mindful of is that in the guidance notes published in November 2021, it was confirmed that only payments that people make themselves from their own funds will count towards the cap.

Any means-tested Local Authority funding you receive will not go towards the maximum amount you will be expected to contribute to your care costs.

Selling your home to pay for care When the social reforms were first introduced, the Government promised that nobody needing care should be forced to sell their home to pay for it but this is only partly true.

The rules - as currently drafted - mean that no-one will have to sell their home to pay for care in their lifetime.

The reality is that if you do not have adequate funds to pay for your care in later life, and you don’t qualify for funding through the National Health Service or your Local Authority, you will not need to sell your home immediately.

However, you may have to agree to give part of the proceeds of the future sale of your property to the Local Authority to fund your care. This is known as a Deferred Payment Agreement or DPA.

Deferred Payment Agreements A DPA is essentially a loan agreement with your Local Authority who agree to pay your care costs upfront for you. The Local Authority will put a charge on your property for the costs they incur, and in the event of your death (or when your home is sold) they will recover their funds from the proceeds of sale, which of course greatly diminishes the inheritance you are leaving to your loved ones.

For a Local Authority to grant you a DPA, they need to be satisfied that your property is appropriately registered with the Land Registry and provides adequate security for the loan – i.e. they want to ensure they get their money back in full.

DPAs are subject to interest and administration fees, so it is best to get professional advice before you sign up to an agreement to understand the full costs involved.

collateral for your care through a DPA, all is not lost as there is the possibility they could keep it. To do this, the beneficiaries in your will would need to settle the debt with the Local Authority after you are gone. If this is done, the house or property could be retained.

Plan now!

Despite the proposed reforms to make social care payment even across the board, we are still likely to see a generation of people who have saved all their lives unable to leave anything significant behind for their loved ones.

If you want to protect your assets from care fees in the future, it is best to take advice as soon as you can. With good planning, you can protect your assets and ensure you have something to pass on to your family. While no-one wants to think about getting old and needing care, putting off planning for your

If you agree to a DPA to pay for your care, the executors of your will should be told as there is often a time limit for the sale of your property after your death.

twilight years doesn’t benefit you or those

If you wanted to leave a house or property to your family in your will but agree to use it as

contact Sara on 01527 588925 or email

you leave behind. n If you would like to know more about how social care reforms will affect you sara.simson@fbcmb.co.uk.

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GOLDEN YEARS

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

GOLDEN YEARS

Leading the Way

for Residential and Dementia Care

The decision to move into care can be difficult and emotional for the whole family, and never more so than now. However, there are many features at Worcester’s two brand-new luxury care homes operated by Ideal Carehomes that help to make that decision so much easier.

Foley

Grange

located

at

Silverwoods Way, Kidderminster Woodland

and

Woodland

Way,

Droitwich

View have

on both

benefitted from a £12m investment and have been designed and purpose-built with residents in mind. They both benefit from plenty of large and airy day spaces for residents to enjoy including a beauty parlour, cinema, cafes’, landscaped gardens, and a lavish Sky Bar where tipples and far-reaching views are enjoyed.

With all this space, the homes lend themselves well to current guidelines that we are all now used to in our day to day lives. From ultrawide corridors to comfort cooling systems and dedicated social rooms for visits*, everything is future-proofed to ensure the continued wellbeing of residents and staff.

Foley Grange Home Manager Dawn Leaver said, “Everything we do at Foley Grange puts us at the forefront of care and with the established Ideal Carehomes team and policies behind us, we have all we need to ensure our residents and staff are safe and n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

content. The care and attention to detail in our homes is clear and they are built with the facilities to offer the high quality of life and independence our residents require.

Cindy Hawkins, Home Manager for Woodland View continued, “The brand-new build allows us to be completely on top of infection control from the very start and the large social spaces give us the means to social distance with ease. We are ready to help people in the local community with both short term and permanent placements and we are always here to answer any questions and help to put people’s mind at rest.’”

Foley Grange and Woodland View offer a lifestyle full of fun and inclusivity that can be tailored to individual needs. Considered activities encourage fullness of life, day to day enjoyment and happiness. Each day there is a full and varied timetable available as well as many recreational resources available at any time.

The exceptional levels of 24-hour personcentred care, coupled with first-class facilities, resident-led activities and freshly cooked

nutritious meals, allows residents to feel safe, relaxed and fulfilled as they move into the next chapter of their life. The Ideal lifestyle is inclusive, which means residents can enjoy everything on offer without having to worry about additional fees.

Foley Grange and Woodland View are welcoming new residents for residential and dementia care.

For more information

or advice, contact Ideal Carehomes on 0113 385 3800 or visit www.idealcarehomes. co.uk. Cindy or Dawn can carry out an initial assessment for new residents within 24 hours of your enquiry and they can help you or your loved one move to your new home as quickly and stress free as possible.

Dawn and her team at Foley Grange will be hosting an Open Day on February 12th between 11-2pm and are welcoming guests via appointment, to experience daily life within the home and ask questions. Guests will receive complimentary refreshments and a goody bag. n *subject to current guidelines

GOLDEN YEARS

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

EDUCATION

City sixth formers exhibit at the Museum of Royal Worcester Students from Worcester Sixth Form College have covered an entire wall of the Museum of Royal Worcester’s Exhibition Hall with their artwork.

First year A-Level Graphic Design students have been given a rare opportunity to work to a live design brief and then publicly exhibit their designs. They’ve been asked to create A3 marketing posters featuring the Museum brand and designed to get visitors in.

The opportunity arose because Kay Mullett, The Museum’s Outreach and Engagement Officer happens also to be an Art and Design teacher at the college. The idea immediately got the blessing of Jules Steed, Head of Art and Design, at the Sixth Form College.

She said: ‘It’s so important and useful for students looking at careers in the Arts to have practical and live experience of fulfilling briefs.

n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

‘And it’s great for the students to gain experience of working with an organisation who uses graphic designers regularly as part of their marketing activities.’

Forty-nine students took part, producing 49

The Exhibition Hall is regularly a backdrop for events and venue hire and Museum Director, Sophie Heath, couldn’t be more thrilled to kick-off 2022 with the students’ work.

really liked how much history is in the museum

posters. For some it was a first-time visit to the Museum.

Ivana Leal Quintalo, aged 16-years, said: ‘I and how colourful it is.’

Lucy Siket, also 16, said: ‘The museum visit was very interesting and I found it very helpful

She said: ‘They only had four weeks from start to finish to tackle our design brand guidelines, follow the brief set and pick one piece of our 200-year-old collection or something from our 8,000 plus archive to base their finished design on. I’m bowled over by their talent, their designs and most especially by their professionalism. Hopefully we can do it all again!’

for my coursework’ n The

Worcester

Sixth

Form

College

exhibition will run until Sunday 13th March and is included in the cost of The Museum’s entry fee. Further details can be found at www.museumofroyalworcester.org

EDUCATION

Shaped by King’s For nearly 500 years, King’s surroundings have shaped pupils in three schools which are redefining education and setting great hearts and great minds alight.

At King’s pupils experience a unique mix of seventh-century buildings oozing with character, alongside contemporary ones, such as the award-winning Michael Baker Boathouse, to provide purposeful spaces in which to study.

There’s no doubt that meaningful places play a part in our emotional and physical well-being, but according to a National Trust study, they can have a significant role to play in shaping our identity too.

The beating heart of King’s Senior School campus is Worcester Cathedral, a wonderful place

to

gather

for

ceremonies

and

assemblies throughout the year, providing a time for reflection during the busy school day.

Another landmark that is synonymous with life at King’s is the River Severn. An important backdrop to each of the three schools, and a constant reminder of our own existence -

full of history but constantly moving forward and forging a new path. Many pupils enjoy time on the river, most notably at the Senior School, where rowing is such an integral part of school life, but it also connects King’s Worcester and King’s St Alban’s Prep School in the city centre with King’s Hawford Prep School, just a few miles up-stream.

King’s Hawford has its own unique history and there is no doubt that the pupils of this remarkable school are touched every single day by its founder Douglas Garrad, who set out to create a school with energy, heart and above all, a spirit of adventure.

in which they study – meaningful places that leave a lasting impact on each individual.

“In our busy school lives it is too easy to overlook or forget how blessed we are to live and work amidst such magnificent and inspiring buildings. How true it is that we shape our surroundings; thereafter they shape us.” Gareth Doodes, Headmaster, The King’s Worcester Foundation. n To see the King’s schools in action and experience their wonderful sense of place, visit during their Spring Open Week 25-29th April. www.ksw.org.uk/shapedbykings

For the pupils who study at King’s, there is the greatest sense of those who have come before us and their efforts to shape our Foundation for the next generation. King’s proudly celebrate that pupils are shaped by King’s: shaped by the opportunities they receive; inspired by dynamic teachers and mentors; shaped by the buildings

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

EDUCATION

Transform Your Future Heathfield Knoll Sixth Form is a brand new opportunity for students who are due to complete their GCSEs in this academic year. with the average grade increasing by one or two levels above standardised education.

Tutorial style learning focuses on the need for students to develop the skills needed for their next stage in life or academia.

There is only one entry requirement: a willingness to learn in this unique and tailored way. Whether you want to retake GCSEs in our ‘A-Level preparation’ courses or move directly onto your next level of study, the academic and pastoral staff at Heathfield Knoll Sixth are here to support and guide you.

Tailor

your

education.

Build

independence. Transform your future. n something

You will have unprecedented flexibility in your

completely unique. Everything

A-Level choices and we match experienced

For more information please

We

offer

is chosen by you - from your

and highly-qualified tutors to you. This one-

contact our admissions team at

courses to the starting time of your first

to-one or small group delivery has been

admissions@hkshcool.org.uk or

tutorial in a morning!

proven to be more academically effective,

call 01562 850204.

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

your

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

EDUCATION Puzzles

What's On FEBRUARY Sunday 6th

The Warriors Wedding Show DIVA Wedding Fayres and Sixways Stadium are proud to present another Warriors Wedding Fair! With 30 unique and inspiring suppliers on hand to guide you through every aspect of planning your wedding or special event joining us for this show is a must for any brides to be in the area, and beyond.

From Dresses to Photographers, and Cakes to Entertainment - we have it all covered.

FREE ENTRY, FREE GOODY BAG www. divaweddingfayres.com/sixwaysbooking

Saturday 12th Dr Andrew Ward - Shady Characters Hardy Plant Society Worcestershire Group at 2pm Some of the most outstanding plants we can grow in our gardens are happy in shade; Erythroniums, Orchids, Meconopsis and Arisaemas. This talk will look at the rare and more unusual shade loving plants. Dr

n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022

Andrew Ward lectures widely throughout the UK and is a regular key note speaker for the Hardy Plant Society. Andrew trained as a Plant Breeder and started Norwell Nurseries and Gardens 24 years ago with his wife Helen.

Together they specialise in choice and unusual herbaceous perennials and alpine plants. The garden holds two National Collections; Hardy Chysanthemums and Astrantia and has more than 2,500 plant species. Andrew will bring plants from the Nursery; pre-order your plants from here : https://norwellnurseries.co.uk/ Lantern Walk 2022 Our beautiful Lantern Walk returns for 2022!

Join St Richards at dusk to walk a beautiful 1.5-mile route around the grounds of National Trust Croome, and help us light up the night sky in the run-up to Valentine’s Day.Whether you’re joining us to remember a loved one or just to enjoy the picturesque setting of Croome, the evening is set to be a magical experience for all. All participants over the age of 5 will receive a lantern and LED candle

to carry along the route, and LED wands will be provided for little ones, lighting up the parkland of Croome as we make our way around the route in procession. Certain areas along the route will be lit up, giving you the opportunity to experience Croome like never before. There is no minimum sponsorship or donation amount, any money raised is greatly appreciated. It is the additional money raised through sponsorship and donations that makes a huge difference to the individuals and families we support and care for. www. strichards.org.uk/event/lantern-walk-2022/

Sunday 20th Malvern Hills Circular Walk Upper Beacon Car Park, Wyche Road, Malvern. WR14 4EQ. Follow the road straight up past Lower Beacon car park as this is very small. £4.50 parking all day. Card machine only We are meeting at 9:00am, setting off at 9:30am. We will hopefully be finished by 2:30pm. We are off to the beautiful Malvern Hills! This is a circular walk it will be slightly

longer than our usual local walks. We will

Friday 25th

Norton is a stunning destination, be it for a

also be carrying out Mountain Warriors fun

M**der Mystery The Mount Pleasant Hotel, 50 Belle Vue Terrace, Great Malvern. Mount Pleasant hotel presents a fully interactive M**der Mystery Night with a 3-course dinner at 7:30pm. Suzy is going to marry Paul. The love of her life.

She has waited since she was a little girl for this day, and nothing is going to spoil it. Not everything goes to plan and there are a few skeletons in the cupboard that seem to be making an appearance. Deception, M**der and heartbreak abound in this tale of treachery.

Please arrive at 7.30pm 3 course dinner served 8.00pm. To include accommodation please contact the Hotel directly on 01684 561837

fabulous country weekend break, a business

exercise and challenges. If you don’t want to take part in these parts that’s ok you can cheer on the others in the team. We will be travelling from North to south of the Malvern’s.

Hitting the highest points. First -Sugar Loaf 368m Second - North Hill 397m Third highest point in the Malvern range - Worcestershire Beacon 425m Fourth - British Camp Hill Fort Herefordshire Beacon Southern point - 338m Children are welcome to join us. Due to the longer distance and steep inclines please be realistic of your child’s walking distance and ability. (Please contact us about child’s prices) A lovely mix of woodlands and hill ridges to

event or the perfect wedding. On hand at the open day will be a carefully selected group of the finest wedding service providers the area has to offer! All suppliers in attendance are known and trusted by Little Wren & The Wood Norton so you can book with confidence!

Free Parking & Free Goody Bag.

Saturday 12th March The Gin To My Tonic Festival 2022 The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, B9 4AA Birmingham. The Gin To My Tonic Festival returns with another nationwide tour for 2022, bringing together over 120+ different craft gins and spirits from across the UK and beyond. As

walk along. Dogs welcome. We have rated this walk Level 2 Distance 16km (9.94miles).

Sunday 27th

always, our aim is to celebrate craft gin and

Meeting time: 9:000am Start time 9:30am

Wood Norton Hotel Wedding Show The Wood Norton, Worcester Road, Evesham.

Guided Tours & All suppliers in attendance are known and trusted by Little Wren & The Wood Norton. Little Wren are again massively pleased & proud to be back at the Wood Norton for a Sunday Wedding Showcase!

Wood Norton Hotel is an impressive Grade II listed Victorian building in a countryside setting on the outskirts of the riverside town of Evesham, in the shadows of the Malvern Hills and on the edge of the Cotswolds. The Wood

distilling, introduce you to new gins you are

Finish: 2:30pm Cost £20.00 Please see website for me information mountainwarriors2019. com/faq’s-and-hiking-ratings EVM Wrestlution The De Montfort School, WR11 1DQ Evesham, UK, Evesham. EVM Wrestling returns with its exciting brand of family friendly entertainment.

Featuring EVM Heavyweight Champion David Eton, House of Cards, Casey Wild and Ruddy.

Plus many more. 3:30pm-5:30pm..

likely not to have discovered yet, and let you enjoy tasting samples in person from an array of exhibiting distillers. The festival is also enriched by fabulous LIVE entertainment to enable you to truly get into the party spirit and celebrate gin with like-minded people. Looking for something other than gin? We’ve got you covered with an array of vodkas and rums so you can still enjoy the celebrations. Tickets £16.50, includes your glass, guide, bag and pen. Plus stainless steel straw. www.thegintomytonic.com

Worcestershire

Now

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

Lis Gardner

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

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk

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

GABRIELLE DOHERTY BULLOCK F.G.A., D.G.A.

Bygones, Cathedral Square 01905 25388 www.bygonesofworcester.co.uk

Worcester porcelain painted with fruit or cattle urgently wanted. Very highest prices paid.

Immediate cash or bank transfer payment

Gabrielle also buys gold and silver and will be happy to call by appointment t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n

Competitive rates of pay, bonus scheme, 25 days holiday per annum, variety of shift patterns, workwear, cycle to work scheme, wellbeing support, life assurance.

If you are interested in joining our team at Morgan Advanced Materials, give us a call on 01299 827000, Email Stourport.HR@morganplc.com, or apply online by scanning our QR code.

You can also view our other vacancies by visiting our recruitment page www.morganadvancedmaterials.com/careers At Morgan Advanced Materials our purpose is to use advanced materials to make the world more sustainable, and to improve quality of life.

Do you want to be part of our purpose?

Morgan Advanced Materials, Morgan Drive, Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire DY13 8DW

www.morganadvancedmaterials.com n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 243 | February 2022