Worcestershire NOW - JUNE 2021 by PW Media & Publishing Ltd

Worcestershire

Now

Dorset House Nursing Home A New Standard in Healthcare See pages 30 & 31 for more information

A HINT OF PINK SPECIALIST HOUSING SHAKESPEARE’S WORCESTER JUNE 2021 | ISSUE 207 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 207 | June 2021

Worcestershire

Now

16 JUNE 2021 HOME & GARDEN 10

A Hint of Pink

Beds, Borders, Bowls & Baskets

Nature Notebook

HEALTH & BEAUTY 22

22 24

A Close Shave

GOLDEN YEARS 24

Specialist Housing for Older People

Meet the Manager at Dorset House Nursing Home

Thinking of Your Independence

EDUCATION 32

Excel with Worcester Sixth Form College

LIVING HISTORY 34

Shakespeare’s Worcestershire

WHAT’S ON 36

Our Guide to the Best Events This Month

Puzzles - Sudoku and Wordsearch

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

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd

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

ADVERTISING Rachel Seabright 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk Lis Gardner Tel: 01905 727901 Email: lis@pw-media.co.uk

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

Botany Bay Nurseries

DESIGN

Dorset House

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

Midlands Air Ambulance

CONTRIBUTORS

Shelsley Walsh Hillclimb

Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter Age UK

TPG DisableAids Ltd

Discover History Dogs Trust

Museum of Royal Worcester

Worcester Repertory Company Worcester Sixth Form College

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 GLOUCESTERSHIRE SOCIETY FOR BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION

CELEBRATES FINNIS SCOTT FOUNDATION AWARD!

The Gloucestershire Society for Botanical Illustration (GSBI), in partnership with the Museum of Royal Worcester, are excited to announce they have received the prestigious Botanical Art Award 2020 from the Finnis Scott Foundation. This will fund a new exhibition at the Museum, opening the 27th May to October 2021, ‘Botanical Treasures inspiration from nature in porcelain and on paper’, with an accompanying programme of family workshops, demonstrations and talks. Rachel Needham, Honorary Secretary for GSBI says: “Winning the Award is like a dream come true! We are delighted to be collaborating with our partners at the Museum of Royal Worcester to produce this new, exciting exhibition ‘Botanical Treasures’. We have been warmly welcomed behind the scenes to explore the Museum, its glorious archive of art works and their stunning design library. Inspired by all we have seen, we are creating new works to be displayed throughout the Museum and will show our latest work, while celebrating the skill of Stuart Lafford, a much-loved art tutor.” Sophie Heath, Museum Director says: “We are thrilled to receive this award and want to extend our thanks to the Finnis Scott Foundation! The core of the exhibition will be works created by the GSBI’s talented members, several of whom are RHS medal winners, displayed alongside the Museum’s beautiful collections of porcelain and original archives. The new n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

exhibition will also celebrate the life and legacy of a well-known local botanical art tutor, Stuart Lafford (1953-2016), who taught many of the GSBI’s members and started his career as an apprentice artist at the Royal Worcester Porcelain Factory in 1972, working on limited editions. He later designed some high-profile commissions including the floral centre on the commemorative plate for the wedding of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson in 1986.” The Museum looks after the largest collection of Worcester porcelain in the world, together with the factory and design archive. The worldclass collection tells the stories of the people who made and enjoyed these extraordinary objects, celebrating the colourful history of 250 years of ceramic design, local skill and innovation. The Museum is located in Worcester’s historic Severn Street, adjacent to Henry Sandon Hall and GoodRoots Café,

which form part of the regenerated Royal Porcelain Works. Following the increased lockdown restrictions, the Museum is currently closed. There are lots of Museum from Home activities to get involved in, including an audio tour online, behind the scenes videos and creative activities, as well as the online shop, which features vintage and modern pieces of Royal Worcester Porcelain. Please support the Museum’s Recovery by making a donation at virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/MoRW-ResilienceFund n To find out more about the Museum of Royal Worcester, visiting and booking info, please visit: www.museumofroyalworcester.org email info@museumofroyalworcester.org facebook.com/TheMoRW Twitter @TheMoRW Instagram @The_MoRW

Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm (last entry 4:30pm) • Sunday 1:00pm – 3:00pm (last entry 2:30pm)

WORCESTERSHIRE’S NUMBER ONE TOURIST ATTRACTION REOPENS! Worcester Cathedral is welcoming back visitors after being forced to close its doors for the first time in its history due to the pandemic.

HISTORIC

CAPTIVATING

INSPIRING

Explore the stories of this 1,000-yearold building. Find out about its founder and his good friend the goose, meet a King, learn about the Prince who should have changed history, explore the history of England through magnificent stained-glass windows, enjoy a sweet treat in the Cloisters Café or pick up a souvenir from the gift shop.

An exciting new range of family activities will be running from May half term until September, including:

SPACE – journey to the edge of the universe and back this September with a spectacular immersive sound and light show that will transform the interior of majestic Worcester Cathedral (check out the What’s On page for specific dates and times).

Turn up for a Socially Distanced Tour Monday to Saturday at 11am or 2:30pm (£7 per person, accompanied children are free).

• Meet King John in a brand new interactive game • Discover the glorious Stained-Glass Windows, and have a go at creating your own • Find the famous Pink Giraffe or try the new Oswald Mouse trail

So if you’re planning your UK Staycation for 2021, make sure a visit to Worcester Cathedral is on your ‘To Do’ list!

THE CATHEDRAL’S VOLUNTARY CHOIR IS LOOKING FOR NEW RECRUITS

Open to local boys and girls in school years 4-8 (aged 8-13). The choir meets twice a week during term-time on Wednesday evening and performs every Sunday in the 6:30pm service. There is no audition – if you love to sing; we’d love to hear from you. Come along to our taster session on 30th June at 6:30pm. Contact nicholasfreestone@worcestercathedral.org.uk for more information.

www.worcestercathedral.co.uk/whats-on

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HERE & NOW

Celebrating 60 years since the launch of the E-Type and the spectacular ‘Swinging Sixties’ Shelsley Walsh, Worcestershire – 12-13 June 2021

The UK’s premier E-type 60th anniversary event will take place at Shelsley Walsh Hillclimb on 12-13 June to pay homage to this iconic car. The action-packed 1960s-themed weekend will feature everything from exciting racing action, star cars, demonstrations and celebrity appearances, to live music, op art, films, fashion and more! Jaguar historian and author Philip Porter, co-founder with his wife Julie of the E-type Club, said: ‘E-type 60 is designed to be a fitting tribute to the sensational E-type and a fabulous celebration of the car and the period into which it was born, a period when people and cars could be free spirits.’ On March 15 1961, two E-type Fixed Head Coupés were shown to the world’s press for the very first time. In the cramped confines of a restaurant in Geneva’s Parc des Eaux-Vives, the lid was lifted on chassis number 885005. Then all those present walked outside to admire and photograph 9600 HP – the famous 150mph road-test car in which Bob Berry had driven absolutely flat-out from Coventry, arriving in Geneva with minutes to spare. Next day – 60 years ago – the E-type was officially

launched at the Geneva Motor Show. It was a landmark moment, not just in the history of sports cars, but in the history of the motor car full-stop. When Autocar magazine reached the remarkable milestone of having published 5,000 road tests, they named their original 1961 test of 9600 HP as being the most exciting, the number-one among a list that included every significant car ever produced. The E-type is quite simply the most beautiful car ever built, and Jaguar’s heritage is second to none, with seven Le Mans wins – five in the 1950s with the C-type and D-type, and two more in 1988 and 1990 at the height of the Group C era. Then there was international rally success, record-breaking, race wins on every continent, and a loyal following in Hollywood from many of the biggest stars of the day. To many people, the E-type is as sensational a car today as it was when it was launched in 1961. It was vivacious, sensuous, shocking and fast – as much a symbol of the ‘Swinging Sixties’ as the Beatles or the mini-skirt. But a sign of greatness was that the E-type was no passing fad. Over the years, the love affair between this beautiful sports car and enthusiasts everywhere has endured.

Philip Porter himself was so smitten that he managed to acquire 9600 HP in 1977 and has owned it ever since, later going on to found the Jaguar E-type Club. The rest, you could say, is history. All set to join the E-type celebrations are the following prestigious cars… • 9600 HP, the original Geneva launch press car and the oldest Jaguar E-type in existence, will carry out passenger rides for competition winners and VIPs. • The Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust will present 77 RW, the original Roadster used as a Press Car by Jaguar; WHP 205J, one of the earliest V12 E-types and originally part of the press fleet; and HDU 555N , the very last E-type off the production line. 77 RW also had a dramatic starring role in the E-type launch at the Geneva Motor Show in 1961. • CKL Developments are kindly bringing the unique E2A prototype that raced at Le Mans in 1960. This highly respected company is aiming to have several more significant cars on display and in action. • Clive Beecham is generously providing his stunning long-nose D-type, XKD 603, and ace driver Willie Green will be giving exciting rides up the hill for a payment to the chosen charity, Hope for Tomorrow. • FPL 660C, The Ex-Denis Jenkinson 1965 Jaguar E-type • Aubrey Finburgh of Classic Autos is bringing some exciting cars, including his genuine C-type. • Peter Sutcliffe, who raced his D-type and Lightweight E-type in period, will be joining us, along with racing star John Fitzpatrick and rally legend Paddy Hopkirk. • Plus a display of all 13 models of the E-type and strong support from the owners clubs. n www.etype60.com

How well do you understand dog behaviour? Dogs a

Trust

launching

new interactive survey

today (Wednesday 5 May) to

better

understand

the

way we interpret dog behaviour. The survey – Public Perceptions of Dog Behaviour & Emotion - is open for four weeks and whether you have a canine companion as part of the family or not, Dogs Trust is urging you to take part. The survey takes around 20 minutes and uses video scenarios to gauge whether you know a happy dog from a worried one. The answers n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

will be used by Dogs Trust to help us all to better understand dog behaviour in future. Dr Lauren Samet, Canine Behaviour Research Officer at Dogs Trust, said: “Dog ownership has never been more popular than it is now, with many people seeing a dog as the perfect companion in lockdown and beyond. “Latest figures suggest there are now around 12 million dogs living in the UK*, so the timing of this survey couldn’t be more important. “Whether you have a four-legged-friend of your own or not, with dogs occupying such a

big place in society it’s vital we all understand them as well as possible. “Being

able

spot

when

dog

anxious, worried or even frightened, so that we can respond to those emotions in the right way, means we can all live happier lives together. “Whether you own a dog or not, your views are equally important. Men are also really underrepresented in surveys like this so we’re making a special appeal to them to take part.” n The survey can be found at www.smartsurvey. co.uk/s/DogBehaviourEmotion/

HERE & NOW

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HERE & NOW

Local Man Chris Raises Lifesaving Funds Local

Worcestershire

magistrate, Chris Devney, has conquered his latest challenge and walked over 150 miles in aid of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, raising more than £4,700, with lifesaving funds still being donated. For over six days in May (9th – 14th), Chris, who is also a devoted volunteer for the charity, walked between each of the charity’s airbases, three of the charity’s shops, its Stourbridge HQ and the original airbase at Hagley Hall, to mark the 30th anniversary of Midlands Air Ambulance being in operation. On arrival at Hagley Hall, where the charity was first operated from in 1991, Chris presented chief executive of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, Hanna Sebright, with a bouquet of red lilies symbolising friendship and loyalty and presented Lord Cobham with bulbs of

the same lilies to be planted in the grounds of Hagley Hall. Fellow volunteer and established town crier, Peder Nielson, also joined Chris at a number of locations to mark his arrival. Commenting after completing his challenge, Chris said: “This has been the hardest physical challenge that I’ve ever taken on, and I’m over the moon to have completed it! All the blisters, aches and pains have been worth it for such an amazing charity. “I would like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this event; from original idea to its completion. But I also want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has so kindly donated. Your incredible support will ensure the operational crews of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity continue to provide worldclass critical care and keep on saving lives!”

Hanna Sebright, chief executive for Midlands

Air Ambulance Charity, said: “What a feat! It is outstanding that Chris has once again conquered such an arduous challenge in aid of our lifesaving local charity and raised so much in the process. “His endurance fundraising challenge will go directly towards supporting our service, funding ten critically important missions, one air ambulance and nine in our service’s critical care cars. As we receive no Government or NHS Charities Together funding, we’re hugely grateful for all he has done in our 30th anniversary year.” n To find out more about the charity and to get involved with anniversary activities, visit midlandsairambulance.com and follow the service on social media.

WORCESTER REPERTORY COMPANY RETURNS TO THE COMMANDERY WITH A HILARIOUS COMEDY THIS SUMMER Worcester Repertory Company will

return

glorious

the

stage

Commandery

Gardens this Summer, with their rendition of John Christopher Wood’s comedy, Elsie & Norm’s Macbeth. This must-see event is the first event the popular repertory company have been able to stage since the pandemic began, with last year’s event being cancelled due to the lockdown measures. The Rep’s annual outdoor event has become something of an institution since its first season back in 2007 with event-goers bringing along their own picnic and drinks to enjoy an outdoor performance in its wonderfully unique setting.

WATER SAFETY Olympian Duncan Goodhew has said that parents should put swimming lessons “front and centre of their priorities” as the country comes

out

lockdown.

Bromsgrove

Swimming Club couldn’t agree more with his sentiments as they re-launch their Learn to Swim program. Swim England have announced that five million swimming sessions have been lost during the pandemic and 240,000 children have missed out on learning how to swim 25m. n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

Chief Executive Officer of Worcester Live, Sarah-Jane Morgan, said: ‘‘I’m so excited that our enormously popular event at The Commandery Gardens will be going ahead this Summer. We were simply devastated not to be able to go ahead with the annual event last year. We’ve worked hard behind the scenes to ensure we can offer something we know our audiences will love, in a safe and secure environment. This year our Repertory Company will present the hilarious play ‘Elsie & Norm’s Macbeth’. We can’t wait to welcome people back to The Commandery!’ Worcester Rep promise to bring the laughter, as they perform Elsie & Norm’s ‘Macbeth, the hilarious adaption of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Elsie and Norm have decided to

Lockdown has given Head Coach Matt Lowe a chance to look at the clubs current training schedule and he is excited to announce major changes to their program for the youngest swimmers, “Our younger swimmers have had to face longer out of the pool than most of our other members which has been incredibly hard for them. If we go back 12 months they would swim for 30 minutes each week, I want them to have more than that, I want them to develop their passion for being in the water, to enjoy it, to have fun - children learn so much more through games and play alongside the more structured coaching.”

have a bit of a bash at culture by staging their own production of Macbeth. After a spot of judicious re-writing by Norm to make it snappier and more punchy, and undaunted by the large cast, Elsie and Norm set out to act “one of the greatest pieces of literature what has ever been written in the English language”, playing all the characters between them. The hilarious results set Shakespeare spinning in his grave! n Elsie & Norm’s Macbeth opens on Wednesday 30th June and will run for two weeks at the Commandery Gardens, Worcester, finishing on Sunday 11th July. Tickets are available online at worcesterlive. co.uk or when calling Worcester Live’s Box Office on 01905 611 427.

The plan is to get the younger swimmers in the water for an hour each week, this an ambitious strategy by the club and one that is a huge step forward for the development of their swimmers. “The young swimmers are the foundation on which our club is built” Matt explains “these children are our future competitive swimmers, the early years in the pool are so important, not just to their development into competitive swimming but to keep them safe in the water.” n Anyone club

interested should

in contact

joining

the

Liz

bromsgrovescmembers@gmail.com

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

t n i H A

k n i P of

gin brin

ink; p f o lash home p s r E ng a to you i PAG d d HE e a RT c E y n V O a rb ED NU ove nd rom NTI e O k C a a a m ulness s m o yf thro ity, pla a b ve nin e gi f femi w h o ont sense m is

n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

Pink can be a daunting colour

something a bit more daring. Here are some

Black fixtures and fittings

to play with in your home. The

examples of how to do pink right without

Simple black features can compliment the

thought of using the colour

turning your room into a bubblegum nightmare.

softness of the colour pink. Use strong

can instantly bring visions of a Barbie boudoir. However, done right, you can turn certain rooms into a harmonious setting, with a hint of daring playfulness. Pink is thought to have a soothing effect on an individuals mood; ideal for sinking into a deep bath and relaxing. There is even a shade of pink called, “drunk-tank pink” that is sometimes used in prisons to calm inmates. Bathrooms are the perfect setting to try out n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

Pair pink with a darker colour such as a dark grey or navy blue. This will balance out the femininity and neutrlise the colour pop of the pink. The main on the previous page shows

geometric shapes and clean lines to factor in timeless elegance and a sense of Japanese serenity to your bathroom space. Think monochrome with just a hint of pink.

the Haze Freestanding Bath from Waters Baths

Dramatic walls

of Ashbourne in a light pink. The contrast to

Pink tiles such as the Showerwell Scallop

the dark blue wall compliments the youthful

Blush Tiles pictured over the page are a bold

pink colour of the bath, balancing out the

way of introducing pink to your bathroom. A

tones perfectly. The bath has an elegant and

full wall of cascading pink tiles are a sure fire

timeless shape designed to complement any modern or period bathroom.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

way of adding drama to the showering space. Showerwall is a fast and hassle free alternative to tiles. The panels have been engineered to create a mechanical locking system that provides seamless, almost invisible joints. The lightweight panels are available in a range of sizes for maximum flexibility. Scallop Blush is part of the Tiles Custom Collection and can be produced with any image of your choice for the ultimate personalised bathroom.

Ren Soap Dispenser and Storage Set, with

For an all over dramatic effect for your bathroom, the Marinace Rosso Brazilian Granite Slab from Cullifords is a beautiful way to turn your bathroom into a real showstopper. Specialising in fine quality stone, Cullifords supplies this spectacular statement granite against a deep red background with different types of rocks set in a matrix that have travelled down a river. A statement piece for the hardy of pink lovers.

comes to redecorating your bathroom. A

Pink accessories If a bright pink feature wall isn’t for you, you can still add smaller items with a pale pink tones to your bathroom. Plastered polished walls with a peachy hue coupled with metallic fittings is perfect for those wanting a subtle finish. Or add smaller accessories like this

can give the room a feeling of style and

a matte pink finish and, brass details (right). Ren’s a luxe take on Nordic styling. This 4 piece set contains a soap dispenser, tumbler and lidded jar, all on a matching tray. For another twist on the subtle pink features, try this abstract shape design towel in beauitful muted colours with fringed edge. It adds a contemporary Skandi feel to your bathroom. Wall art should not be forgotten when it statement piece with hues of pink running through it, could be the ideal way to update the look of your room without going the full splatter of pink. A monochrome bathroom with the addition of your favourite colours as

Geo Abstract Towel £8-18 • www.next.co.uk

the seasons change, could be a cheaper and effective way of adding the spark back into an uninspiring bathroom. A small bathroom painted pink, surrounded by ecletic artwork, elegance, leaving a strong impression to those entering. Find your perfect pink shade and impress your friends and family! n By Daisy Bennett

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A full wall of cascading pink tiles are a sure fire way of adding drama to the showering space

Scallop Blush Tiles, Showerwall • Showerwall.co.uk n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

HOME & GARDEN

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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

Kate Gilmartin Tel: 01905 727904

kate@pw-media.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

, s r e d r o s B t e , k s s d a e B s&B l w o B to ms e e ! rs the dding a e e he w bout B t d n a ay a to talk M e e bl icta it’s tim d e r , unp outine n a r f l ck o easona a b ls he en t norma e s s e hav into it e w ed Now e settl hav

Annual bedding plants produce a riot of colour throughout your garden, lasting right through the summer. They are the perfect plants to create planted containers and patio pots, to plant directly into your garden beds and borders, and of course they make stunning hanging baskets. A beautiful hanging basket is a real must for your summer garden. Easy to plant and satisfying to look after, you will achieve a really fantastic display. The garden centre is bursting at the seams with beautiful bedding at this time of year and there are very many different varieties n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

to choose from. If you are planting into containers, window boxes, pots or directly in the ground, you will be looking at upright varieties, such as: Zonal Geranium, Begonia, Bush Fuchsia, Lobelia, Nemesia, Osteospermum, Argyranthemum, Dahlia, Impatiens, Marigold, and Cosmos.

fuchsia; Begonia (choose trailing varieties);

Plus there lots of unusual coloured foliage plants such as Cineraria to add an extra dimension to your planting.

Here is a handy guide to making your own

When it comes to hanging baskets, there are lots of lovely trailing varieties, each with their own range of colours. Some you will have heard of, some may be new to you. Choose from Ivy leaf geranium; Trailing

liner make sure you poke a few holes in the sides

Bacopa; Diascia; Petunia Surfinia, Tumbelina & Calibrachoa; Centradina; andBrachycome. Again, there are lovely foliage plants that will add texture and interest to your basket, such as nepeta and helichrysum.

hanging basket: • If you are using a wicker basket with a plastic of the liner. This allows water to drain through so the plants do not end up waterlogged. CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

ANDREW ALEXANDER GARDEN DESIGN

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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 17 n

HOME & GARDEN

gone over. This helps the plants to continue flowering. Some plants, such as begonias, even dead head themselves! Another way to ensure a gorgeous display is to prune back any plants that get unruly or if there is one plant that is overpowering the whole basket. Do not be afraid to trim them back to maintain a good shape.

• Fill the basket with a good quality multipurpose compost leaving about an inch space at the top. • Whether you are using plug plants or larger potted plants, select trailing varieties and plant them in a circle around the edge of the basket. For a 14 inch basket we would recommend using 6-8 trailing plants. • It is nice to balance the trailing plants with some height in the centre, so choose 2-3 nice upright plants and add them to the centre of your basket. Once your basket is made, make sure that you care for it to keep it looking at its best. Water it regularly. Depending on the weather,

you may need to water 3 times a day with a litre or more of water on hot days. But even on dull or wet days your basket may need watering. Feel the weight of it to see if it is dry, you will soon get a feel for when it needs water. If it really dries out, you can soak the whole basket in a large container or bucket of water for a short time to rehydrate it thoroughly. Feeding is important as the plants will quickly use up the nutrients in the soil. Feed every 7-10 days with a multi-purpose NPK nitrogen, phosphorus & potassium feed to encourage growth and flower production.

Creating a summer container or window box is a great activity for children. They are easy to plant, easy to look after and are fast growing. Get the whole family involved in choosing the plants too. A visit to the garden centre is always a great way to pass an afternoon! Whatever basket, container or garden area you choose for your bedding, whether it is on a small scale or as a lavish splash, bedding plants are an easy and fun way to make your garden pop with colour all through summer! n Botany Bay Nurseries, Garden Centre & Café Edgioake Lane, Astwood Bank, Redditch. B96 6BG 01527 893885 www.botany-bay.co.uk Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Once your basket is established, ensure that it will look great throughout the whole summer by dead heading the flowers that have

Once your basket is established, ensure that it will look great throughout the whole summer by dead heading the flowers that have gone over.

n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

HOME & GARDEN

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

House Sparrow © Simon Hislam

s w o r r a p S g in r e tt a Ch What more appropriate species of wildlife can sum up June’s 30 Days Wild campaign that the humble house sparrow? 30 Days Wild is back and this year we’re encouraging everybody to get to know the wildlife on their doorstep. The annual campaign is run by Wildlife Trusts up and down the country and challenges everyone to do something wild on every day of June. It kicks off on 1st June with a Big Wild Breakfast where we’re suggesting that you take your meal outside and take a closer look at what you can spot while you’re out there. For many people the sight or sound of house sparrows won’t be far away. Or at least that used to be the case. Since 1977 the UK has seen a 71% decline in house sparrow populations and that huge drop in numbers has been reflected here in Worcestershire. House sparrows were once so common that people who recorded birds rarely even mentioned them before 1980; since then, their absence has been more noticeable than their presence. We need your help to get a true picture of where our house sparrows are across the whole county.

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

Just like us, sparrows are sociable creatures and, although they have a strict hierarchy, they nest colonially; sparrow nest boxes are known as terraces because they have holes and spaces for at least three pairs of birds. In Worcestershire house sparrows are found close to where we live and are especially partial to gardens that have good connectivity to other gardens or the countryside via hedgerows or trees and large shrubs. They’re not particularly intrepid explorers, usually staying within the same 2km during

n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

their entire lives – this means that if a population is lost in one location, a new population is unlikely to move in for a long time. Our garden bird feeders help to support these primarily seed-feeding birds. Take a closer look at their chunky beaks and you’ll see that they’re great for crunching through the outer shells of seeds that birds with more delicate beaks may struggle with. Like all birds, though, as well as spending time in your garden they’ll also search more natural habitats to find food – scrubby fields, hedgerows, dense ivy and bramble patches. Most of the house sparrows that were recorded by people across Worcestershire in 2020 were found on our urban fringes and in suburban areas. There were far fewer records from older and smaller villages where we’d expect habitat to be good – whether that’s suitable eaves under which to nest or hedgerows connecting gardens and the countryside. Of course, records only reflect where recorders are and not necessarily where the birds are, which is where you come in. As well as signing up for 30 Days Wild www.wildlifetrusts.org/30DaysWild, having your Big Wild Breakfast and going wild for a whole month, please also keep a lookout for house sparrows. If you see some, please take a photograph (a mobile phone snapshot will do) and report them via the short form on our website www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife-sightings - you’ll help to contribute important information about how are house sparrows are doing. n

NATURE NOTEBOOK

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A Close Shave....

Father’s Day this year falls on June 20th. We take a look at the best shaving products out there, to give your dad the best shave this Father’s Day. L’OCCITAN EAU DE TOILETTE - £52

COOLING AFTERSHAVE BALM - £22.50

An elegant and luxurious French eau de toilette with a woody fragrance for the energetic and self-confident man. uk.loccitane.com

This certified organic aftershave balm is the final step in your shave routine. Suitable for all skin types, it nourishes, hydrates and cools to give skin post-shave comfort. www.nealsyardremedies.com

CLARINSMEN AFTER SHAVE ENERGIZER - £25 This refreshing, invigorating aftershave splash soothes and energizes the skin after shaving, while reducing razor burn and promoting the healing of minor nicks and cuts. www.clarins.co.uk

HARRY’S SHAVE GEL - £5 An aloe-enriched formula and gentle, honest ingredients soothe and refresh your skin. www.harrys.com

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER LE MALE EAU DE TOILETTE SPRAY £52.50

ORIGINAL SHAVE BRUSH - £8 Bulldog’s Bamboo Shave Brush has been designed to increase lather and lift hairs to help achieve a close and comfortable shave. Go on, treat yourself to a traditional shave www.bulldogskincare.com

The power and freshness of mint. Lavender, evoking the familiar, comforting scent of shaving soap, is transformed by the sensuality of vanilla. www.boots.com

MACHRIE MENS AFTER SHAVE BALM - £15 Feel invigorated with the fragrance of crisp, clean, mineral freshness whilst soothing and softening the face with Machrie After Shave Balm. www.arran.com

n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

STRAIGHT EDGE CUT THROAT RAZOR WOODEN HANDLE £25 If you are one of the many who prefer the traditional style of razor without compromising precision and quality, we have a treat for you... www.russellsshaveclub.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Luxury Lingerie Swimwear & Nightwear Large and small cup sizes Brands include: Prima Donna, Marie Jo, Maison Lejaby, Empreinte and Fantasie

HALF PRICE SALE CONTINUES 23 Reindeer Court, Worcester

Tel: 01905 619031

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

GOLDEN YEARS

Specialist Housing

for Older People

Specialist housing for older people comes in many different forms, which can be grouped according to the level of support offered. Broadly speaking, there are three different levels of support, which we’ve detailed below. 1. ‘age-exclusive’ housing, where residents must be over a certain age to qualify, but little or no support is provided 2. ‘housing-with-support’, where residents receive support services such as an emergency alarm system, but staff do not provide care 3. ‘housing-with-care’, where staff provide care services such as help with washing, dressing, toileting, and taking medication If you are considering specialist housing, think carefully about your needs and what level of support is right for you. Remember, services and facilities vary from scheme to scheme. Check what is available before you commit to moving in. It is also important to consider your financial resources. The cost of specialist housing varies, particularly n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

between luxury ‘retirement villages’ and other types of housing. Sheltered housing Sheltered housing is the best known and most common form of specialist housing. It is a type of ‘housing-with-support’. It is available to rent or buy. Sheltered schemes typically have 20 to 50 flats or bungalows, with a basic range of shared facilities. You have your own front door and receive some level of support on-site. There is usually an emergency alarm system in each property, providing a 24/7 link with a control centre. There is normally a scheme manager, also known as a warden, who may live on-site or visit to provide ‘floating’ support. The scheme manager service may be carried out by a team of support staff. Meals, domestic help and personal care services

are not usually provided, but you may be able to get a package of additional services from the local authority or a private care agency. If you need more support, extra care housing, a type of ‘housing-with-care’ might be more suitable. Is specialist housing right for you? Although specialist housing for older people comes in different forms, there are common features: 1. specialist housing enables you to continue living independently as (usually) a tenant or owner, with your own living space and front door 2. many schemes are purpose-built for older people, meaning properties should be accessible and easy to manage CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

GOLDEN YEARS

Mobility Services Midlands Ltd For all your Mobility needs

We are mobility specialists offering you affordable and professional equipment to help you with your general day to day activities Ask about out price promise

01562 743660

www.mobilityserviceskidderminster.com 410 Stourport Road, Kidderminster

93 Barnards Green Road, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 3LT Regulated by Care Quality Commission

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GOLDEN YEARS

services can be costly and vary over time, although financial help may be available. Use the local link www.worcestershire.gov. uk/housingandcarehomes the council can assess your needs and decide whether you are eligible for services. If you are eligible, you may have to pay some of the cost of care services, depending on your financial circumstances. If you are not eligible for financial help, ask the authority what services they think you need. You can then arrange for a private company to provide these. Services include specialist equipment, home adaptations, support with domestic tasks and meals, as well as personal care. In

England,

Elderly

Accommodation

Counsel (EAC) have an online tool called HOOP. This helps to identify aspects of 3. most schemes provide some level of support, either day-to-day or on an emergency basis. This should help you to feel safe and secure, without compromising your privacy and independence.

from friends and family. If the property

However, the new accommodation may be in an unfamiliar area or further away

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

is smaller, you may not be able to take all your furniture and belongings and

your home you find most difficult, and local services and accommodation that may be suitable. You can request a callback from an EAC adviser if you need more detailed

some schemes do not allow pets. Other

advice. There are alternative arrangements

residents may be at different stages of

if you do not have internet access. EAC also

their lives and may be more, or less, active

have details of specialist housing for older

than you. Charges for support and other

people across the UK on their HousingCare

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

GOLDEN YEARS

website. You can search for housing of your

The Abbeyfield Society

preferred type and tenure in different areas:

The Abbeyfield Society is a charity providing

hoop.eac.org.uk/hooptool

accommodation for people aged 55 and over. They have over 500 homes, ranging

What is extra care housing?

from converted terraced houses in cities

This is a type of ‘housing-with-care’, also

to purpose-built developments, offering

known as ‘very sheltered’ housing or

varying levels of support. Some homes are

‘assisted living’. Staff are usually available

provided by the national charity and some

up to 24 hours a day to provide help with washing, dressing, toileting, and taking

by local partner charities. The traditional

medication. There is usually an emergency

Abbeyfield model is a converted house with

alarm system, which may be connected to

a communal lounge and between six and

care staff instead of an external call centre.

12 bed-sitting rooms. Many of these rooms

Domestic help, such as shopping and

have en-suite bathroom facilities. Residents

laundry, may be available and meals may be provided in a communal dining room or in individual flats. Extra care housing is not the same as a care home, although some

given medication, is not generally provided by staff in an extra care scheme, but may be provided by a visiting district nurse.

are provided with one or two cooked meals a day and support from a house manager and volunteers. Some newer Abbeyfield developments are larger and provide extra

schemes are linked to a nearby care home

What should I check for?

care accommodation. Abbeyfield residents

(sometimes called ‘close care’). Living in

If you are interested in a specific scheme,

are either tenants or licensees. Tenants

extra care housing means living in a fully self-

make sure the services provided match your

usually have more rights around security

contained property with your own front door.

needs and are affordable to you. Check

of tenure and repairs than licensees, so

Extra care housing can be rented or owned,

how often care staff are available and what

check the terms of the agreement before

meaning you have a legal ‘interest’ in the

happens if you require care out of these

property. Care home residents are usually

hours. Schemes providing personal care in

you sign and seek independent advice.

licensees with fewer rights than tenants or

England are monitored by the Care Quality

leaseholders. Nursing care, such as having

Commission and you can contact them for

For more in depth information contact Age

wounds dressed, catheter care, or being

inspection reports.

UK – Fact Sheet 64. www.ageuk.org.uk

n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

www.abbeyfield.com n

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

GOLDEN YEARS

Meet the Manager at Dorset House Nursing Home We took the opportunity to sit down with the manager of Dorset House Nursing Home, Karen Johnson, ahead of their Meet the Manager event on 24th June in Droitwich Spa.

What’s the significance of holding an event like this? We

know

that

making

the

decision for you or a loved one to move into a care home is a difficult one and a lot of times the need for care hits people very quickly, making an informed decision sometimes stressful. By inviting people to come into our home and meet with us on a relaxed no pressure basis hopefully we can alleviate some of that stress and answer some of the

questions people have about care, even when looking into the future. Then, when it does come to making that decision, they have more of the information they need. What can someone expect when they come and Meet the Manager? It’s a very informal meeting; we’ll show you around the home and then have a chat, perhaps with a cup of tea. We do ask that people call to book a time slot in advance just so we can keep to covid regulations and

ensure everyone remains safe. You may want to bring along the potential resident to look around with you or it may be for yourself. If you want to come along and meet us but can’t make it on the 24th June we’d be more than happy to schedule a meeting that suits you, be that a weekend or evening. We’re always here to help and do understand the pressure and concern of not knowing enough about the process for when it is needed. n

Thinking of Your Independence It goes without saying that this winter has been a challenge for many of us and now that hope is on the horizon of better times, we all start to think and dream about what the warmer months may hold for us. Meeting friends and family is

all our mobility scooters come with a

of course something we are all

free assessment and training to help you

looking forward to, but until that

understand how to use your scooter within

time comes simply getting outside, enjoying

the law and more importantly safely. We

the better weather and staying independent

can do this in your home, our showroom or

is something that all the team at TPG

the environment which you are likely to use

DisableAids are passionate about helping our

your scooter, be that the local shops or even

community achieve.

your favourite parks we are happy to help you

We have an extensive range of product to

and your loved ones find their independence

help you and your loved one keep moving,

again and be ready to enjoy the times that are

from walking aids such as the Topro Rollator

sure to come.

to 4mph and 8mph mobility scooters.

From all the team stay safe. n

Our team of assessors are working with

Contact TPG DisableAids via

some of the finest suppliers in the country to

enquiries@tpg-disableaids.co.uk

bring you a range of product to support you whether you are walking to the local park, needing to pop to shops on your scooter or moving around your home and garden safely. We offer full bespoke assessments, completely free and with a guarantee of no obligation to n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

buy or hard sales technique, our aim is first and foremost to get you the right product for your needs. As a respected and longstanding member of the British Healthcare Trades Association

or 01432 351666 or via our social media sites.

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EDUCATION

Excel with Worcester Sixth Form College Worcester Sixth Form College was the highest performing sixth form college, and one of the top institutions nationally for achievement rates in the most recent externally validated results. This shows that our students are well-supported, complete their courses and are successful. We offer the widest range of A Levels in Worcestershire and a range of Applied courses. We believe that students do best when they are able to choose the subjects that suit their skills and interests rather than having to study something that isn’t their first choice. Additionally, all our students are able to benefit from enrichment opportunities that will develop their confidence and skills as well as boosting their motivation to succeed. Our Sports and Performing Arts Academies are two examples. Our students and their parents have continued to respond extremely positively about our support for remote learning and student wellbeing. One parent said: “I have been so impressed at how staff have gone above and beyond in their support for my son. The commitment to face to face teaching and learning online during

n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 207 | June 2021

lockdown has been faultless. Thank you - we couldn’t have chosen a better place for our son to study.” Parental support has been tremendous throughout the pandemic. 97% strongly agreed/agreed that the College made effective arrangements for remote learning, 99% strongly agreed/agreed that they were kept well informed and 98% strongly agreeing/agreeing that the College did

everything possible to make the return to College as safe as possible. We are confident that we have the expertise and resources to support our students so that they are successful whatever the circumstance. Visit www.wsfc.ac.uk to view the content of our Virtual Open Event page, find out about all of the opportunities on offer and to complete an online application to join us in September 2021! n

EDUCATION

ANSWERS You’ve found the answers! The puzzles are on page 38

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

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

LIVING HISTORY

Shakespeare’s Worcestershire We have always promoted Worcestershire as a County that is linked to all the Great events in the history of Britain and in some cases World History. It’s this fact that makes our job easier, as we are not reliant on one historical period to write about. When we think of Chester, many

The Shakespeare family were involved in the

alongside the Will of William’s Grandfather

people think of the Romans.

Cloth Trade and Glovers from Stratford upon

- Robert Arden. Unfortunately the actual

When we think of Bath, many

Avon, and William may have run errands for

Marriage Register for the Church has pages

his parents, for business purposes.

missing for the year 1582, which means there

think of Regency period. York is often seen as the place to learn about Viking History. However we are fortunate, living in the County of Worcestershire, rich in Heritage.

Nestled just inside the Medieval City Wall of Worcester,

William Shakespeare is usually associated with

stands

Warwickshire, but we must remember that the

Martin’s

Old

Church.

is no evidence that William and Anne Married at the Church. When you look at the Bishops Register, we do have an entry for ‘Shaxpere’ and a woman called ‘Anne Whateley.’ Across

Worcestershire

there

are

many

Bard would have known his neighbouring

almost

tales and stories that William Shakespeare

County very well.

opposite the East

frequented the pubs and houses in the area.

Gate, known as

Unfortunately, we will never know how true

St Martin’s Gate.

these oral histories are.

When

William

Shakespeare

and

Anne

Hathaway realised she was with child in 1582, William knew he had to obtain a special Marriage Licence to prevent public disgrace and possible ruin for both families!

sits

The

Church

once housed the Marriage

Bond

between ‘William

Stratford sat in the Dioceses of Worcester, so

Shagspere’

a hurried License would have brought him

‘Anne

to the City of Worcester and the Bishops

This is now housed

Court. William may have visited Worcester

before, as it was a powerful Wool producing

Worcestershire NOW - JUNE 2021

Articles inside

Shakespeare’s Worcestershire

Our Guide to the Best Events This Month

Specialist Housing for Older People

Nature Notebook

A Hint of Pink

Beds, Borders, Bowls & Baskets

Excel with Worcester Sixth Form College

A Close Shave