Worcestershire NOW - March 2016

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

March 2016

issue 153

THE DOWNS MALVERN

Day, Weekly, Flexi and Full Boarding Co-educational Prep School See page fifty-one for more information

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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

ADVERTISE

Rachel Seabright Tel: 01905 727900

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

a room can feel flat even if the colour scheme is perfect and the furniture is fantastic, the texture and choice of material is a detail that cannot be missed

michele@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

Amy Thomas

06

Always staying on top of trends can be hard, but with spring around the corner why not couple your cleaning with a spring refresh?

CONTRIBUTORS

Wendy Carter Glynis Dray

Charles McQuaid Jill Warren

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COMPETITION WINNERS

A relaxing retreat for two at The Mecure Hotel, Kidderminster S. Cooper, Kidderminster

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Two Club Tickets to Ladies Day at

Easy room makeovers

Cheltenham Racecourse M. McEwan, Hartlebury 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

visting berrington hall

submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope. DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.

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

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Our Lady's Bird

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CONTENTS

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36

feel good about yourself

win with the fish hotel

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Belgian Chocolate Fondant with honeycomb, caramelised banana and toffee ice cream

march 2016

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ISSUE 153

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Cookley to Kingsford Forest Park

combat heart disease

bromsgrove and redditch

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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Win a private dining experience for six with Seven Mile!

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homestyle

a room can feel flat even if the colour scheme is perfect and the furniture is fantastic, the texture and choice of material is a detail that cannot be missed

Orsen two and three seater sofa available from www.made.com

Interior design trends 2016 Always staying on top of trends can be hard, but with spring around the corner why not couple your cleaning with a spring refresh using inspiration from this article.

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

>>

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homestyle

In 2016 the use of tonal colours will be vital.

Vernay Console Table available from www.made.com

T

here

are

components

three to

main

final product. This article will guide

Materials

consider

you through some of the key trends

Mixing Metals

when thinking about interior

that will be on the minds of all top

Anyone who has been following

design and the trends to

interior designers. In 2016 you will see

design trends over the past few years

follow. The first is colour; this is what

blurred colours, metallic materials

will realise that retro is back and is

will grab your attention first when

and natural themes throughout, so

here to stay. Interior designers just

you walk into a room or house. The

follow these simple interior design

adore retro lighting, and the hype at

second is the materials that you use

tips to be the trendiest house on the

the moment centres around metal.

whether it’s on the floor, the wall or

street.

Over the last year we saw brass, this

the furniture. This is what gives the room a lift, a room can feel flat even if the colour scheme is perfect and the furniture is fantastic, the texture and choice of material is a detail that cannot be missed. The final key feature to contemplate on is the

Colour Blurred Boundaries In 2016 the use of tonal colours will be vital. Tonal colours are different shaded colours of the same colour group. To apply this to your room

year we will see the rise of copper, gold and all of them mixed together.

If you combine brass, copper and gold with metallic treatments and glossy finishes you will be sure to be on the right side of retro.

take a lighter and darker shade of

Using

the same colour and subtly blending

popular when it comes to lighting

atmosphere of a room.

them using furniture, paint and

and the brass and copper really

bedding. For example you can use

come through when using exposed

Interior design can be challenging

a rose pink pillow placed on a red

lighting. Exposed lights combine

with a lot of options to consider when

quilt that is positioned on a mauve

some

on the road to achieving the perfect

armchair.

trends over the last few years: The

theme; themes are very important as they contribute the most to the

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Retro lighting is back and here to stay

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

these

of

materials

the

main

is

most

emerging

>>

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homestyle

Bring nature home with the Lyra Outdoor Dining set from www.made.com

industrial look and The vintage look.

broaden your mind and think of cork,

creeping into our home over the

You can create the effect by simply

bamboo, marble and maybe even

last few years with the rise of indoor

removing the lampshade but to

wax!

planters and jungle themed prints.

really take advantage of this neat and minimalist theme you must utilize the bulb itself as a design

Themes Two halves of the 1970s

element.

The 1970s will be making a revival

Choose sustainable!

themes of 2016 in the interior

Sustainable furniture and materials

design world. To implement this

are the motifs of 2016 interior

trend combine the bold colours

design. One of this year’s themes is

synonymous with the 70s and its

‘bringing nature home’ so bear this

shabby materials. If the bohemian

in mind when choosing sustainable

style isn’t for you the 1970s can

material. Using eco-friendly materials just doesn’t have any drawbacks; you will be helping yourself by helping the world. Natural materials are very popular in the world of interior design this year and designers will be making sure that the materials are

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The 1970s will be making a revival and is one of the most talked about themes Furniture available from www.made.com

and is one of the most talked about

still be embraced by exploring the other side of the 1970s consisting

flourish. You can begin embracing this trend with a few simple potted plants which are easy to take care of like succulents or cacti. These are very cheap and easy to find and will embellish most interior design styles.

Spider

plants

are

many

designers’ personal favourites, they used to be a staple to everyone’s bathroom and now they are coming back! Taking Mother Nature into

of a smarter and sharper vintage

our homes doesn’t have to be

appearance. This can be achieved by

taken

using a palate of neutral and muted

natural fabrics and materials will be

greys.

central to all sophisticated homes in

sustainable and eco-friendly. Natural

Bringing nature home

materials aren’t limited to wood, so

Mother Nature has slowly been

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

This year we are going to see her

completely

literally,

using

2016.

By Charles McQuaid

www.darrenspencerelectrical.co.uk

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homestyle

Berrington Hall © John Millar

berrington hall Follow the rows of golden yew bushes into Berrington’s immaculate walled garden, with apple orchard, delightful flower borders, hand-crafted auricula theatre and extensive vegetable patch.

B

errington Hall is surrounded by the original

heritage. With this in mind, the National Trust has

Edwardian garden to the south; with the

replanted pre-20th-century varieties of apples which

woodland garden to the north-east and the

have fallen out of cultivation. Some of these varieties

original laundry drying area to the west. The

are not only of historical interest, but are also a source

walled garden was originally the kitchen garden for the

of future plant breeding materials. See which unusual

household, but like many others fell out of use during

and rare varieties of apple you can spot in the orchard

the Second World War. See if you can find our hidden

at Berrington and speak to the experts at our cider

kitchen garden, which supplies the Servant’s Hall tea

weekend in October.

room at Berrington with fresh, seasonal produce; from plot to plate. Visiting our pottery shed you will find out more about the history of the garden and the work our

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All that remains of the Edwardian gardens is the enchanting fountain and the avenue of golden yew

gardeners still do today.

bushes, carefully clipped into balls. The 3rd Lord Cawley

Orchards form a significant part of Herefordshire’s

area and along the sweeping carriage drive. Nestled

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

planted many of the flowering trees and shrubs in this

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homestyle

© John Millar

© John Millar

© David Sellman

in the old woodland to the north-east of the house

and explore the immaculately designed parkland

is a collection of azaleas and rhododendrons, some

and gardens this year as we celebrate 300 years of

hybridised by the 3rd Lord Cawley. They surround a

‘Capability’ Brown. Environmental artists ‘Red Earth’

more secluded pathway and are bursting with colour

are bringing to life Brown’s final vision with a series

in May.

of outdoor installations in the park throughout 2016.

Berrington’s pleasure grounds and parkland were designed by the prolific Georgian landscape architect, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. During the 18th-century,

Inside the mansion, we’re working with the national ‘Embroiderers’ Guild’ on an exhibition which will bring the outside in, interweaving the colours, layout and design of Berrington’s parkland. You’ll also be able

Brown designed around 255 parks around the country

to see the characters of Berrington brought to life

and in the 1770’s, Berrington formed the culmination

inside the mansion with an exquisite paper costume

of his life’s work. He cleverly concealed the walled

exhibition by ‘Delicarta’.

garden and kitchen garden so the hustle and bustle of a working estate was hidden from visitors. He also designed the walled garden with a curved back wall; one of only three left in the whole country. This allowed gardeners to control the amount of heat and light from the sun, so Berrington could grow exotic fruits like figs and mulberries. Berrington’s landscape was designed to be beautiful, a ‘pleasure ground’ for riding and walking. Sweeping vistas surround the 18thcentury mansion, with lines of trees drawing your eye down to the artificial lake, complete with island, and across to the Black Mountains of Wales. Come

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

MORE INFORMATION Berrington Hall is a country house located about 3 miles north of Leominster, Herefordshire, England. During the 20th century it was the seat of the Cawley family.

Berrington Hall, Berrington, near Leominster HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/berringtonhall

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homestyle

Spa Decorators

Serving your local Community Spa Decorators Limited was established in 1993 and have serviced the local community for over 20 years. Spa Decorators are based in Droitwich Spa and have developed long term relationships with clients from the private, industrial and commercial sectors to provide a quality service with their experienced and professional team.

H

aving close working relationships with all the

paramount and disruption is kept to a minimum. Where a

leading paint manufacturers enables them to

contract requires specific health and safety assessment,

supply their clients with a high specification

(e.g. sheltered housing, communal living premises, work

finish and superior interior design to meet their

in busy public areas), site specific risk assessments are undertaken to ensure that safe working practice is in

needs and expectations.

Offering

services

to

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commercial

properties

and private homes, means Spa Decorators have a wealth of experience with both small painting tasks and complete refurbishment! One of the major refits was The Throckmorton and other clients include Chateau Impney, The Royal Exchange and Hagley Primary School; a diverse selection. They also offer upvc replacement window and doors, fascias, soffits and gutters, external wall insulation and other building work in addition to the high quality interior and exterior decorating. They have a carpentry service and examples of their work can be seen on the website.

Spa Decorators are justifiably proud of their Health and Safety procedures ensuring that clients’ safety is

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

place.When dealing with Spa Decorators Ltd, the quality of the operational safety for staff, clients and third parties who may be affected, matches the excellence of their workmanship.

This is a local company serving the Worcestershire community on the domestic, commercial and industrial fronts so if you have a decorating issue contact them now for a prompt and polite service.

MORE INFORMATION For further details of the services on offer call: 01905 773628 or email: admin@spadecorators.com / amanda@spadecorators.com or see website www.spadecorators.com

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homestyle

EASY ROOM

MAKEOVERS Transforming your home doesn’t have to be a major event, small changes to

each room can make a great difference and your home will be revolutionised.

Take some inspiration from the following stress-free makeovers that can potentially transform the feel of a room for you and your guests.

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Bedroom

First thing you will need is a suitcase.

Assembling all the pieces together is

Suitcase bedside table

They can be found in charity shops,

rather simple. First prepare the base

This funky piece of furniture can be

on gumtree or on Ebay for around

using the MDF and measure it so it

created easily using a bit of DIY skills

£10 or less. Make sure the suitcase

fits at the bottom of the suitcase.

and creativity; this beautiful piece

is hard sided and don’t forget to

Position the three top plates on the

will certainly draw an envious eye

consider the material; worn brown

bottom of the suitcase and secure

and is functional too! Retro styles

leather will give your final creation

them by ensuring that the screws

are here in force and here to stay;

that retro-chic touch. Next, you

you use go through all the layers

pieces like vintage suitcases are

will need some table legs and four

and half of the MDF. Next, attach the

common in any vintage collection

angled top plates. These can be

legs by simply twisting them in place.

and can be extremely versatile. By

found in a local hardware store,

You can paint the legs to match the

following these simple steps you

together with a small number of

suitcase or even paint the whole

can count furniture as one of their

screws. Finally, get a sheet of MDF

piece to spice it up and make your

many uses!

that will fit into the suitcase.

piece even more original and unique!

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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homestyle

Bathroom

with beautifully shaped edges and

A Cake Stand to declutter

engraved designs.

the dresser This easy makeover for the bathroom

A glass cake stand can embellish your dresser or shelves in the bathroom

involves something that actually

Kitchen Succulents

belongs in the kitchen. A glass cake

This cheap and easy makeover tip

stand can embellish your dresser or

can potentially transform a room

shelves in the bathroom and is also

from a boring abode to a fresh and

practical and useful, as it creates

interesting one. Using indoor plants

more room and declutters a boring

has become increasingly popular

side or shelf. This piece can be used

and using them as a makeover tool to

to display your make up, accessories

a dull room or wall should certainly

or perfume, and it’s very easy on

be an option to consider. These fun

the eye. Feel free to tier them up for

little décor pieces are so bohemian

more storage! If you don’t already

and can be used throughout your

have a suitable cake stand in your

home. You can make them kitchen

home you can pick them up in most

themed

homeware stores or you can buy a beautiful vintage or vintage style

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Kitchen

by

using

peculiar

and

exciting containers as pots.

one online. My personal favourite

Many modern interior designers like

ones to use are made out of glass

to use pretty vintage food cans but

>>

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homestyle

you can use almost anything such

Making your sofa livelier is easier

as tea tins, mini pots, little mugs

and cheaper than you may think.

or even pie dishes! Once you have

Creating your own cushion covers

the pot, just grab some simple and

gives you the freedom to match

cheap materials from your local

your current fabrics and colours

gardening store. You will need some

exactly

soil, a succulent plant, and rocks

dreamed of. Making your own

in various shapes (you can just

cushions is made simpler by the

borrow these from outside). Add

readily available cushion forms, as

some big rocks to the bottom of the

these are easy to measure. Once

container, then some smaller ones

you have the measurements you are

and then some soil. Loosen the soil

free to pick almost any material and

from your succulent and then plant

colour available at your local fabric

them into your layered container. At

store. Ask your local fabric store

this point, proceed by topping up

if you need guidance on the exact

with some soil and water then place

method, otherwise you can search

the finished product where you

online for many easy but in depth

desire. You can use other plants but

tutorials. Once you have made a few

succulents are great because they

simple cushion covers you can start

need little or no care and they look

to experiment by re purposing old

extremely cute. Bringing the outside

sweaters for that comfortable retro

in can really renovate a kitchen.

feel, use zips for easy access and

Living Room Cushion covers, using a sweater

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

how

you

have

always

even use your own prints.

By Charles McQuaid

Creating your own cushion covers gives you the freedom to match your current fabrics and colourS

J & E Nevitt Home Lighting Specialists

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homestyle

Success for lioncourt homes The phenomenal growth at Worcester based Lioncourt Homes has been recognised by the Sunday Times as one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK.

T

he annual survey of all private companies in the

Neil commented: "The whole business is based on

UK has placed Lioncourt Homes in 25th position

our quality approach and everyone in the business

in the list of the fastest growing companies in

is focused on quality of build, quality of design and

the UK, and is 2nd in the Midlands Region.

quality of service to our customers. This quality

As the fastest growing house builder in the UK, Lioncourt has grown from a small regional player just a few years ago to one of the largest home builders and land owners in Central England. This impressive growth has

Builders Federation) and Lioncourt are holders of the coveted 5 Star Quality Award, one of only 15 developers in the whole of the UK to hold the award."

seen rapid turnover and profit growth and has involved

With all this recognition what is possibly left for the

a near doubling of staff each year, over the past 2 years.

Company to strive for? Well the response from Colin

Founder executive directors Colin Cole and Neil Chandler, have been behind this growth but they are keen to emphasise that it is the culture, work ethic and expertise of everyone in the Lioncourt team that has made this outstanding growth possible.

Colin Cole, Chief Executive of the Group, said, "There is no doubt that the growth of Lioncourt Homes is attributable to the tremendous commitment of the Lioncourt staff who work tirelessly to achieve our growth plans. As a consequence we have an excellent culture which makes Lioncourt such an enjoyable and challenging place to work."

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approach has been recognised by HBF (House

on this as clear and concise: "We are only at the start of the Lioncourt story. We have significant growth planned for the period ahead and we have excellent managers and staff developing throughout the business as part of our succession plans. But for now it is time to reflect and celebrate this latest success."

In the local area, Lioncourt are building new homes at Saxon Meadows, Kempsey. This development offers an exciting range of 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom homes in our award winning standard and beyond with our Signature Collection range. With prices starting from ÂŁ235,000 and Help to Buy available along with other offers you need to head down and take a look! Sales and Marketing Suite is

The rapid growth has been achieved whilst focusing

open 7 days a week 10am to 5.30pm or contact us on 0845

on quality and Neil Chandler, Finance Director, also

873 2882 or email saxonmeadows@lioncourthomes.

emphasised this as a fundamental part of their success.

com or saxonmeadows@lioncourtsignature.com

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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25

NATURE NOTEBOOK

Ladybird © Rachel Scopes

Our Lady`s bird

Ladybird ladybird, fly away home... a rhyme that most of us can recite. I remember falling in love with these bright, rotund little critters when I was little – they were all girls (ladies, in fact) and they’d happily bumble around on my hand if I could persuade them to hop on.

I

distinctly remember the day when I discovered they

their source of honeydew, began to clamber over the

were actually beetles. Beetles? I was shocked. Beetles

hungry ladybirds to encourage them to find their meals

were the black things that I avoided as they raced

elsewhere.

across the ground – how could these beauties be

those scuttlers? In that split second, I’d gained a new

This winter has been pretty odd and, as I write, there’s

appreciation of both the bright little ladies and the ‘ugly’

no guarantee that flowers, trees and wildlife will be

black ground dwellers.

doing what they normally do by the time you read this.

The collective noun for ladybirds is ‘a loveliness’ and these pretty beetles have been admired since the Middle Ages. They were originally referred to as ‘Our Lady’s Bird’ - in early paintings, the Virgin Mary wore a red cloak and our most common ladybird, the sevenspot, represented her seven joys and seven sorrows.

The UK has more than 45 species of ladybird but only 26 of those are recognisable as the brightly coloured and spotty beetles we know and love. Fortunately they have easy to remember names – even if they’re not all easily found! Most are named after the number of spots found on their protective wing cases (or elytra) including two, four, seven, fourteen and even 24 spot ladybirds.

Others have been named after the shape of their spots

But March usually sees many of our ladybirds coming out of hibernation. Once they’ve mated and eggs have been laid, the spiky, alien-looking larvae also feed on aphids before pupating; not only are they great to look at, it makes sense to attract them to your garden:

B They also feed on pollen and are partial to white and yellow flowers, particularly umbrella-shaped flowers like fennel, angelica and wild carrot as well as cosmos, calendula and coreopsis.

B Put away your chemical bug-killers B Try ‘companion’ planting (try colourful nasturtiums) to attract aphids away from your prize plants.

B Don’t forget to leave a bit of your garden ‘wild’ to give them plenty of safe places to lay their eggs.

– kidney, eyed and hieroglyphic, for example.

Wendy Carter Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

Ladybirds are yet another of the gardener’s friend – munching away on the aphids that can cause trouble for our plants. It may sound odd but I spent a little my garden; the aphids on the flower stems were being

MORE INFORMATION

‘farmed’ by ants that wandered over them to gather

Keep up-to-date:

while last year intently watching the golden feverfew in

the honeydew that the aphids produced. The relative peace of this scene was broken when a ladybird arrived – hungrily eyeing up the aphids. The ants, keen to save

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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

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27

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£14.50

£38.00

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

Stockist Details: Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk. Balance Me - www.balanceme.co.uk.

Dermalogica - 0800 591818 - www.dermalogica.co.uk. DHC - www.dhcuk.co.uk.

BEAUTIFUL

29

BEAUTiful

From 20s to 50s: How to age gracefully

When you're constantly bombarded with messages and news about the latest anti-aging treatments and methods, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. How can you maintain a skincare routine when the rules seem to be ever-changing? It might be simpler than you think.

S

eparating the hype from reality, you can

aging skincare supplements. Additionally, Dr. Downie

come up with a core skincare routine to

shares it's important to adjust your skin care routine

perfectly suit the skin you're in. "As you

throughout the years, what worked in your and

age, your skin changes," says Dr. Jeanine

twenties may not have your skin glowing into your

Downie, board-certified dermatologist from Image Dermatology P.C. "When it comes to supporting

thirties and beyond.

skin and its care, women (and men) need to

Many women don't know where to start. Meaning,

understand that aging is complex, and it varies

what types of anti-aging skincare products might

greatly by individual. Genetics, tanning and

be right for them and what the choices are when it

smoking also influence the health of your skin."

comes to anti-aging products.

She also noted that with skincare, there are a range

30

of choices to consider, such as topicals, injectables,

She provides her tips for aging beautifully from your

cosmetic treatments, surgery and even oral anti-

20s to 50s and each decade in between:

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

>>

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

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

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

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

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

BRAND NEW CACI EYE REVIVE TREATMENT 25% OFF IN MARCH.

Puffy Tired Eyes, Dark Circles, Fine Lines & Lifting. Now £26

BRAND NEW SKIN BLEMISH CLINIC OFFERING Diathermy; Treatment by Cauterisation.

CryoPen; Treatment by Liquefied Nitrous Oxide 20% OFF FIRST TREATMENT Medical Grade Permanent Inch Loss Body Wraps Only £35 Skin Tightening Treatments For Face & Body FROM £50 Laser & IPL Hair or Thread Vein Removal FROM £25

Worcester Clinic T: 01905 354034 M: 07980 193794

E: eileen@beautyinaflashclinic.co.uk

W: www.beautyinaflashclinic.co.uk

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

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

Julie Ward Dip Couns, MBACP

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

www.wpacsupport.co.uk

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

31

BEAUTiful

20s: Preserve and protect

where creams and lotions can't reach. This supports

It's never too early to start aging prevention. Hectic

hydration and helps to create a radiant glow.

schedules, late nights out and days spent on the beach can wreak havoc on your skin. This stress shows up in the form of dark circles, under-eye bags, and dull or puffy skin. Fine lines begin to creep up as early as your late 20s, so a quality skin care routine is key. Start with a glycolic acid based cleanser and an oil free moisturizer. Dr. Downie recommends a separate sunscreen with an SPF 30 or above, rain or shine, January through December, regardless of your ethnicity. Sunscreen only works if you reapply it every two hours, according to skincancer.org. Sun protection forms the foundation of any anti-aging skin-care plan, according to the American Academy of Dermatology and The Skin Cancer Foundation, as the sun's rays make our skin age more quickly - so regular use of daily sun protection is essential at all ages.

40s: Strengthen As you enter your 40s, your estrogen levels begin to change, resulting in dryer and thinner skin. Anti-aging products and creams with ingredients like retinoids and peptides are must-haves and always make sure to apply sunblock. Moisturize with serums containing growth factors and hyaluronic acid. Exfoliate - use a gentle face cleansing brush to help get rid of dead skin cells. Be sure to extend your skin care down to your neck and dĂŠcolletĂŠ (upper chest) area. There are specifically formulated products to soothe and ease discoloration in this area. While you work hard to care for your skin on the outside, add IMEDEEN Time Perfection. This age-adjusted anti-aging supplement formula helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so add it to your daily routine to nourish your skin from within. Nourishment from within supports the whole body, including the back of hands and upper chest.

It`s never too early to start aging prevention.

Hectic schedules, late nights out and days spent on the beach can wreak havoc on your skin

50s: Beyond Hydration and Prevention You should already be on a steady anti-aging regimen.

As soon as you count 50 candles on your birthday cake, moisturizing should be your top skincare priority. Look for products with retinoids, peptides, alpha hydroxy and amino acids. You should be keeping vigilant with your sunscreen and moisturizers. You could always consider laser treatment surgery, Botox with filler or other non-invasive treatments. IMEDEEN Prime Renewal, the anti-aging skincare formula for women 50 and older, is a dietary supplement that helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots as it protects and repairs the skin, stimulating collagen production, and is a convenient addition to your daily skin care regimen.

30s: Exfoliate Once you hit your 30s, your skin's natural exfoliation process begins to slow down. The growth factor in your skin also decreases. This means that you start to lose a teaspoon of collagen from your face every year by the time you are 30. Continue with your glycolic acid base cleanser. You also need an oil-free make up remover. Using an eye cream both day and night might help to increase moisture and suppleness around the eye area. Dr. Downie recommends a dual-pronged approach to help address some of the first signs of aging using topicals plus IMEDEEN Derma One, an anti-aging oral supplement that provides nutrients from within, targeted to the dermal skin layers

32

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Most important, Dr. Downie reminds that true beauty comes from within, so embrace your age throughout your life. Try to avoid excessive sun exposure (and indoor tanning as these rays may accelerate skin aging,) moisturize daily and consider an anti-aging oral supplement. Exercise, eat healthy foods, don't forget to get enough sleep (it's called beauty rest for a reason) and if you smoke, stop.

Follow this guide and take steps to shift you skincare routine throughout the decades to feel as beautiful as you look - both inside and out. www.imedeen.co.uk

Luxury Lingerie, Swimwear & Nightwear Maternity, Bridal, Sports & Teens Mastectomy specialists Cups AA to K

Cup sized swimwear now in stock up to a K cup 23 Reindeer Court, Worcester Tel: 01905 619031 www.embraceluxurylingerie.co.uk www.embracecancerbeauty.co.uk

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

33

FOOD & DRINK

SERVES: 8 INGREDIENTS: chocolate fondant: B 250g dark Belgium chocolate B 250g butter (cubed) B 5 eggs B 5 egg yolks B 250g sugar B 125g plain flour Honeycomb: B 200g caster sugar B 60g golden syrup B 200g glucose B 20g bicarbonate of soda Toffee ice cream: B 350g milk B 350g cream B 1 vanilla pod B 6 egg yolks B 100g sugar B 125g sugar (weighed separately from above quantity) caramelised banana: B 4 bananas B handful of sugar

Belgian Chocolate

Fondant with honeycomb, caramelised banana and toffee ice cream

Josh Giles, chef/proprietor, and all the staff would like to give you a warm welcome to The Brook at Elcocks Brook.

The Brook Sillins Lane Redditch B97 5UD Tel: 01527 543 209 Email: enquiries@thebrook.pub www.thebrook.pub

34

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

METHOD: 1 Start by getting yourself organised, line a 30cm-20cm tray lined with baking parchment, and get a pan of water on the hob coming up to the boil.

2 For the toffee ice cream (this can be made the day before), put 125g of sugar in to a heavy based saucepan and place on a high heat, stirring constantly. In a separate pan warm up the cream, do not boil. Once the sugar has turned to an amber colour, add the cream and stir until well incorporated.

3 Separate the vanilla pod and place into a pan alongside the milk and bring to the boil, in a bowl whisk the egg yolks and the 100g of sugar. When the milk comes to the boil, pour over the egg mix and whisk well, transfer back into the pan and cook out on a medium heat until the mixture reaches 80째C or starts to thicken like a custard.

4 Then add the toffee mixture to the egg custard and incorporate well, transfer the ice cream base to the fridge and allow to cool.

Once cold transfer to the ice cream churner and churn until mixture has thickened and began to freeze.

Once at this stage, remove and place into a tub and relocate to the freezer and allow to fully freeze, (6-8 hours).

5 To make the honeycomb, get a cloth, a whisk and your pre-lined

tray ready to hand as you will have to work fast. Place all ingredients into a large heavy based saucepan except the bicarbonate of soda.

Heat up over a high heat once it begins to heat up stir once just to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Bring up to 118째C. 6 Then add the bicarbonate of soda, whisk round 4-5 times (the mix will rise and will colour very quickly, and will be extremely hot so ensure you have good thick cloths and do this process away from children). Working quickly pour the mixture onto the pre-lined tray and place to one side to cool down to room temperature.

7 For the fondants place the butter and the chocolate into a metal/glass bowl and place over the pan of water you previously brought to the boil to create a bain-marie, stir occasionally until the mixture has melted.

8 Meanwhile, place the sugar the eggs and yolks into a bowl and whisk up until well incorporated.

Once the chocolate mixture has melted remove from the heat and leave to stand for 10 minutes.

9 When slightly cooled add to the egg mixture mix ingredients well and then fold in the flour, set aside ready for later.

10 When the mixture has reached room temperature separate the mixture into 8 well floured moulds and place into the oven at 200째C for approx 7-10 minutes until the mix has started to rise with a warm and gooey consistency in the middle.

11 Break up the honeycomb into good sized chunks.

12 Whilst the fondants are cooking, peel the bananas and slice them in half length-ways. sprinkle with the caster sugar and blow torch until the banana becomes caramelised (this can also be achieved by putting the bananas under the grill).

13 Sprinkle the bananas with the small pieces of honeycomb from the bottom of the tray.

14 To plate, Set the fondant in the middle of the plate and organise your garnish around it. Finish the fondant off with a good scoop your home churned toffee ice cream.

15 If you have any ice cream left over this can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Also, if you have any leftover honeycomb this can placed into an airtight container and can be kept at room temperature for a few weeks.

Mothering Sunday Two Courses for £20.00 | Three Courses for £25.00

Limited tables available!

The Brook at Elcocks Brook is a contempory country pub set in the scenic countryside of Worcestershire. Serving modern British food, created using the finest seasonal ingredients which are sourced as local as possible. The bar offers a great selection of premium spirits, lagers and wines alongside real craft ales.

www.thebrook.pub Phone: 01527 543 209

|

Email: enquiries@thebrook.pub

Address: The Brook, Elcocks Brook, Sillins lane, Redditch, Worcestershire, B97 5UD

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

35

FOOD & DRINK

A romantic hideaway in the

heart of the Cotswolds The Fish Hotel, a back-to-nature bolthole with oodles of character, style and a little touch of luxury.

O

ne lucky reader can win the perfect country

The Outhouse and The Stables. A palette of greens, greys,

escape in the Cotswolds with a one-night stay

blues and splashes of yellow create light, bright and airy

at The Fish Hotel, a back-to-nature bolthole

guestrooms with little touches including hand-made

with oodles of character, style and a little

furniture, fresh flowers and speciality teas.

touch of luxury.

By day, guests can enjoy wonderful walks in the

The 67-room hotel – which opened in June 2015 - sits at

surrounding countryside or try a number of activities on

the heart of the beautiful 400-acre Farncombe Estate

the estate including Segway safaris, clay pigeon shooting,

with sweeping views over the Vale of Evesham and is a

quad biking and archery. In the evenings, guests can relax

walk away from the idyllic village of Broadway.

Interior

designer

Hannah

Lohan

has

and unwind by the fire in the bar or in their cosy rooms. created

a

contemporary rustic yet cosy look for The Fish, with a touch of Scandi in homage to the estate’s owners. It

Whether guests are after a relaxing country retreat or an active adventurous break The Fish caters for everyone.

is laid out in a village-style with the guestrooms spread

For more information about the hotel visit

throughout three refurbished buildings; The Farmhouse,

www.thefishhotel.co.uk

Competition

For your chance to win a romantic one-night stay for two people in a Superior Room with a three-course dinner at The Fish Hotel in the Cotswolds, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Answer: Name:

Address:

Who designed the interiors of the hotel?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: The Fish WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 16th March 2016. Terms & Conditions: Prize cannot be booked for a Friday or Saturday. Offer is subject to availability. Prize must ISSUE 153 redeemed by 1/12/16.

36

WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Tel: Email:

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

Revills Farm Shop SAPEY GOLF CLUB spring Offers Asparagus Experience the award winning farm shop

Breakfast & 18 holes

From £15pp Monday - Friday From £20pp Saturday - Sunday after 11am Valid Until 8th April 2016

Weekend TwIlight Golf

£15pp Saturday - Sunday after 12 noon

Light lunches or afternoon tea with homemade cakes and pastries

To book a tee time call 01886 853 288 (option 2)

Fresh, local vegetables and fruit Local milk, cheeses and yogurts from small dairies Locally reared lamb, venision, pork and chicken Specialist local beers, cider and wines Bourne Road, Defford, Worcestershire, WR8 9BS Tel: 01386 750466 www.revillsfarmshop.co.uk

Sapey Golf Club, Upper Sapey, Worcestershire, WR6 6XT

www.sapeygolf.co.uk

The Fir Tree Open All Day, Every Day

Gift Vouchers are now available to purchase for any amount!

Special Offer

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

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

Full Menu and Bar Snacks available 7 days a week Sunday Lunch served 12 - 5pm Dunhampstead

Droitwich

20% off all food before 5:30pm Live bands every Friday - 8pm until late Drink offers Every Thursday - Saturday Sit back with a coffee or catch-up with a cocktail of your choice in this relaxed and friendly atmosphere

WR9 7JX

Tel: 01905 774094 @WORCESTERSHIRENOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WORCESTERSHIRENOW.co.uk

37

THE FOREST AT FECKENHAM IS

CROWNED BEST PUB OF THE YEAR!

T

he Forest at Feckenham

Pub of the Year Awards means

has clinched its first

that The Forest at Feckenham has

major national award

constantly excelled the standards

by being crowned with

required

for

Les

Routiers’

the coveted Les Routiers Best

membership since it opened just

Pub of the Year 2016.

over two years ago in 2013. the

CD Pub Co also runs The Stag

footsteps of its two award

at Offchurch and The Moorings

winning

in

at Myton near Leamington

Warwickshire and now puts

Spa – both of which have won

Worcestershire on the map with

numerous industry awards for

a reputation for outstanding

their outstanding cuisine.

Its

success

follows

sister

in

pubs

quality food and drink.

For further information please

This latest accolade for CD Pub

call 01527 894422, or visit

Co, a family owned and managed

www.theforestatfeckenham.com

gastro pub business, reinforces the hallmark of its success with menus reflecting a favoured Anglo-French cuisine, delivering great value for money.

Winning the Les Routier’s Best

38

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

L-R: Charles Harris with Tina Griffiths (Les Routiers) presenting the award, with Anthony Lys (Deputy Manager), Tom Robinson (Head Chef), Karen Healey (General Manager), and Stephen Massey (Sous Chef).

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

39

FOOD & DRINK

ultimate carvery It is no surprise that the Sunday roast is close to our hearts – it represents family and friends like no other meal. In fact, the Sunday roast is beaten only by fish and chips, eaten by the seaside as the nation’s overall

F

most-loved food, according to a poll published in 2015 by Visit Cornwall.

or the chef, a good Sunday roast can be one of the

vegetables. Most recent statistics indicate that 2% of

hardest challenges. Unlike a la carte dishes, there’s

adults and children are vegetarian (not eating meat or

nowhere to hide, no slick techniques or sauces to

fish), this amounts to over 1.2 million individuals. (Office

help service. Everything is on show to the public.

for National Statistics) so this a small market but if one

When it comes to carveries, our office is divided into two camps – pile it high with mountains of food that could

of your group or family very important in your choice of venue.

rival K2 or even Everest then undo the button on their

Oh, we love a Sunday Lunch in Britain, and it is no wonder

trousers if they need to make room, and those that like to

that every weekend pubs across the country are packed

try something new or different.

to the rafters with hungry punters yearning for their

Whatever your choice it is a time for the whole family to get together and spend some quality time enjoying one of the greatest forms of food to grace this earth. Succulent

weekly fix. We have selected a few local favourites for you to try, we suggest you always book in advance to avoid disappointment.

beef slices, perfect roast potatoes with their crispy outer layer, pigs in blankets, stuffing and vegetables all bring joy to the heart. Let us not forget one of the most defining aspects of our Sunday roast, the make-or-break accompaniment to this fine, time honoured tradition, the crisp Yorkshire pudding. 2000 diners polled by OnePoll for Unilever replied to, what makes a perfect plateful? It was three slices of meat, 3 roast potatoes with 2 Yorkshire

March Hare, Broughton Hackett, Worcester WR7 4BE Tel: 01905 38122

www.marchhareinn.co.uk

Selection of three meats, twelve vegetables and homemade gravy Nailers Arms , Doctors Hill, Bromsgrove B61 9JE Tel: 01527 873045

Bookings essential to avoid disappointment

want Yorkshires with every meal.

Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Worcester WR2 4BS Tel: 01905 427760

Although meat is the theatre to the carvery, local fresh vegetables and produce form an important part of the experience. The best carveries are the ones that have smaller quantities of veg and they refresh frequently.

This is because they will continue to steam, cook and deteriorate. Cauliflower, broccoli and beans tend to discolour and loss their appeal if under the lights for any longer period of time. Braised fennel, leeks, celery and celeriac cooked in chicken or vegetable stock have become popular. Roasted vegetables, combinations of courgettes,

www.crowncarveries.co.uk/manorfarmworcester

The Plough and Harrow, Drakes Broughton WR10 2AG Tel: 01905 841041 www.theploughandharrowdrakesbroughton.co.uk The Royal Oak Broadwas, Worcester WR6 5NE Tel: 01886 821353 www.theroyaloakatbroadwas.co.uk The Raven, Droitwich Rd, Claines, Worcester WR3 7SR Tel: 01905 451301

www.theravencarvery.com

The Plough Inn, Cleobury Road, Far Forest, Nr Bewdley, WR14 9TE

www.theploughinn.org

The Granary, Heath Lane, Shenstone, Kidderminster DY10 4BS www.granary-hotel.co.uk

peppers, aubergines, plum tomatoes sprinkled with sea

The Fox Inn, Chaddesley Corbett, Near Kidderminster DY10 4QN

salt, rosemary and olive oil have added a mediterranean

Tel: 01562 777247

twist to a modern offering.

The Barley, Mow Priory Square, Studley B80 7BA

Most carveries can cater for vegetarians and some vegans with an a la carte offering together with the carvery

40

www.thenailersarms.co.uk

puddings. 70% want carrots but topped by the 80% who

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

www.thefoxinn-chaddesleycorbett.co.uk

www.crowncarveries.co.uk/ thebarleymowstudley The White Hart, 161 Droitwich Rd, Fernhill Heath WR3 8RP Tel: 01905 451 363

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

41

keeping active Start/Finish: Walk starts/ends at the River Stour Bridge at Cookley.

Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station at Kidderminster. Catch 9A bus from Oxford Street (stand near War Memorial) to Bulls Head, Cookley . Please check current timetables. Parking: There are parking spaces scattered around Cookley. Please respect residents and park sensitively. For those doing shorter walks, please park at Kingsford Car Park (see sketch map). O/S Map: Explorer Map 218 and Forest Trail leaflet downloadable from www.worcestershire.gov.uk/file/5222/kingsford_forest_park Distance: The main walk is approximately 5 miles from Cookley to Kingford Forest Park and back. Also a forest trail of about two miles. Time: Allow all day to do main walk. Shorter walk approx. 2 -3 hours. Refreshments: There are no cafes or eating places en route so please take a picnic and enjoy it along the way. There are picnic tables at the forest car park. (see sketch map) Terrain: Outward walk trends uphill and the return downhill. There are stiles, kiss-gates and steps which make the route unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Sturdy waterproof boots or comfortable ‘wellies’ are the order of the day in winter – a good ‘winter welly walk’! Poles are extremely useful as it can be very muddy in parts. History: The name ‘Kingsford’ is believed to have originated from the fact that King Charles I forded the river here when retreating from the Roundheads. Take time to explore the 200 acres of mature mixed woodland and heathland at Kingsford Forest Park.

1: From parking spot or bus-stop, making sure you have a picnic with you, walk downhill to road bridge over River Stour. Notice rock shelter carved in red sandstone. Continue uphill towards Caunsall, turning left.

2: On brow of hill, take footpath on right - beautiful old track with hedges both sides. After 1/3 mile take footpath on right (on clear day, extensive views with centre of Birmingham on skyline). At corner, cross stile into adjacent field. Path follows fence round to right then continues to stile at crossroads in paths.

3: Go straight on along North Worcestershire Path (NWP on map).

Exit onto lane, turn right for short distance and left into forest.

4: Entering Kingsford Forest Park, take track through barrier.

NWP with its ‘fir-cone’ symbol is well signed. There’s a network of tracks through forest that you can explore but this walk follows perimeter of 200 acre site and crosses Blakeshall Common. After 200 yards, fork right along track to car park and picnic area. Walk

continues northwards on NWP along ‘Horses’ route (eastern edge of Forest Park), passing Kinver Edge Farm. Climb steadily up to cross-roads and straight on to Kinver Edge.

5: Those doing shorter ‘Forest Trails’ can park in car park near Kingsford with its information centre, picnic area, toilets and 4 forest trails available. (Download leaflet from Worcestershire County Council Website – see blue box above). Main walk turns left along NWP. At next major junction, keep on NWP to fork in routes and go left along main path, curving round to left with fenced off area on right.

6: Follow route round to right (horse trail goes left) and continue up to ‘T’ junction on ridge. Turn left and walk down long twisting valley to wide Forest Trail.

7: NWP goes left along ‘permissive’ route drifting gently upwards to ‘Blakeshall Common’. Path now drops down, taking NWP through barrier on left to sandy track where you need to turn right and uphill for a short distance out of Kingsford Forest Park and alongside red sandstone boundary wall of Blakeshall Hall to exit into lane on crown of hill.

8: Turn left and walk down lane* to another junction where you turn right. (Note: Victorian Letter box on corner). Winter walk turns left opposite old Blakeshall Farm and goes down lane for 1/3 mile. (*In ‘dry’ season you can walk straight on to footpath on outside corner, walk along right side of valley down to stile at Debdale Farm then turn right beyond farm to Debdale Bridge at point 10).

9: Turn right through small wooden gate. Cross several fields via kiss-gates (hedge on right) with lovely views southwards towards Malvern Hills. Cross track, through kiss-gate and down steep steps onto riverside. Turn right and walk to Debdale Bridge.

10: Go over bridge to canal, turn left over another footbridge and on through Cookley Tunnel. Walk up steps on left and turn left along path up to main road. It is now down hill to River Bridge or uphill to village centre.

Written and illustrated by glynis dray

cookley to kingsford forest park 42

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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43

living history

the history of croome There’s more than meets the eye at Croome near Worcester which includes a vast ‘Capability’ Brown landscape park, a mansion house at its heart and even a 1940s visitor centre and wartime museum to visit. The whole place has been transformed over the last 20 years by the National Trust’s team of dedicated staff and volunteers. commemorates the war-winning efforts of the RAF Defford team. Some incredibly personal stories are shared, as well as the work of the “boffins” in the laboratories.

Outside, the extensive parkland was created over 250 years ago and is one of the grandest of English landscape designs in the country. It was the first complete landscape design of the legendary architect and landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, so called due to his habit of telling estate owners that their land had “capabilities”.

His design at Croome was remodelled from a formal garden and marshland. It incorporated naturalistic planting, classical-style

T

he Visitor Centre is the first experience for visitors to enjoy at the very start of Croome. The buildings are the restored Sick Quarters of a secret wartime airbase which was a hub of activity for thousands of people

during the Second World War. The visitor centre, authentically restored, now houses a RAF Defford Museum, 1940s style restaurant and just outside there is ‘Ginkgos’ shop, plant centre, children’s playground and wild play area.

requisitioned by RAF Defford with runways and hundreds of buildings built on the edge of the parkland.

airborne

radar.

The

and his style laid out at Croome in the 1750s was copied across Europe, now called The English Landscape Style.

By the 1990s, acres of open pasture had been ploughed up to plant arable crops, and the enclosed shrubberies, dotted with temples, follies and statues, were neglected, overgrown and life, making it the perfect place for walks and adventures with a place of interest waiting to be discovered around every corner.

Today, a walk down to the lake and river through the shrubberies

RAF Defford became the main station in Britain for the of

Brown’s reputation as one of the greatest landscape designers

partly in ruin. Years of restoration has bought the park back to

During the Second World War the parkland and house were

development

buildings and natural looking water features. Croome cemented

experiments

and

developments carried out were of great historic significance as they played a vital part in helping the Allies to win the war.

is a revealing exploration with many surprising features emerging throughout the route. Deckchairs scattered around the lakeside make it a relaxing spot to take in the surroundings or enjoy a family picnic.

From the main walk classical buildings called ‘outer eye-catchers’

The airfield closed in 1957, after it was decided the runways were too

can be glimpsed through view lines in the shrubberies intended

short for large jet bombers, and the flying unit made the short move

to divert the viewer’s attention to the edges of the estate along

to Pershore airfield. However, Defford continued to be base for radio

specially designed vistas. From the Park Seat, Panorama Tower,

astronomy, an activity that has continued to the present day.

Pirton Castle or Dunstall Castle, there are fantastic viewing

The RAF Defford Museum shares the secrets of the Second World War airbase, once part of Croome in the 1940s. The base

points to look back across the whole estate with the Malvern Hills providing a dramatic backdrop.

served over 2,000 personnel and scientists who tested radar

At the heart of the parkland lies Croome Court, once the home to

to meet new enemy threats. The old Decontamination Annexe

the Earls of Coventry. The 6th Earl of Coventry, George William, was

and Ambulance Garage are part of the new museum which

an eighteenth century trend-setter and a very handsome man.

44

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

He inherited his title and the boggy estate in 1751 at 28 years old.

collaborating with emerging new designers, craftspeople and

His elder brother was set to inherit instead of him, but he died

creative practitioners to share its fascinating stories with visitors

unexpectedly at a young age. They had formed great plans together

in new and innovative ways.

and after the 6th Earl inherited Croome, he set about putting them into action. His aim was to turn Croome into an icon of fashion and sought the first and the best of everything that he admired. He commissioned both ‘Capability’ Brown and architect Robert Adam at the start of their careers and added finishing touches with the help of James Wyatt in the late 1790s and early 1800s.

The 6th Earl married Maria Gunning, a great 18th century beauty and socialite. Unfortunately, Maria died at only 29 years old from tuberculosis brought on through her weakened immune system that had been ravaged by the use of the popular white lead based makeup.

The Earl then married Barbara St. John, who he considered his soul mate. They had much in common, preferring the country to the bustle of London. She encouraged his obsession with collecting of new plants for the park, from across the globe.

In the redesign of Croome Court, the 6th Earl used up and coming artists and craftspeople to create something entirely

From March, visitors can explore all four floors of the house which reveals its eclectic history including the 20th century when Croome’s ownership passed from a boys Catholic school to Hare Krishna devotees and later several property developers who tried to turn the house into hotels and country clubs.

This year the house sees the long-awaited return of a fifth of the Coventry collection saved from the 1948 auction of the house and furniture. From May, some of the treasures from the collection go on display in a completely unique way.

From July 9th, Grayson Perry’s ‘Vanity of Small Differences’ tapestries will be exhibited for two months until September 11th which continues the exploration of Croome’s lost tapestries.

This year is also the 300th birthday of ‘Capability’ Brown and Croome hosts a range of events to celebrate this special year including a commemorative exhibition in the house from late September.

new and at the height of fashion and taste. Today, the National

For further information please visit

Trust’s team continue in his footsteps and creative ethos by

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome

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golden years

things to help combat

heart disease Care UK offers everyone a reminder of how they can make small changes which will help towards a healthier heart.

F

or

example,

Heart

the

British

to eat more healthily and challenge

men and a tenth of all women will die

Foundation

(BHF)

charts to help you record your

from CHD. Other statistics include:

offers advice on spending 10 minutes every day to make

small changes, particularly in terms of getting moving, even if it’s only for

46

exercise.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the country’s single largest killer being

a walk.

responsible for over 73,000 deaths

The BHF website has lots of other

estimated that there are 2.3 million

free booklets that you can download

people living with the disease in this

on all sorts of things including how

country and around one sixth of all

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

every year in the UK alone. It’s

B Takes 400 lives in the UK B There are 12 babies born with a heart defect; and

B Every

three minutes someone

has a heart attack – with almost a third of them not surviving The most common symptom of

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47

golden years

CHD is angina, a chest pain caused by restricted blood supply to the muscles of the heart, normally because the arteries supplying the heart have become hardened and narrowed. This affects around 2 million people in the UK. Symptoms of angina include a pain or discomfort such as a dull, heavy

angina but more severe and include:

B Pain in other areas of the body – it may feel like the pain is moving from your chest to your arms, neck, jaw, back and stomach

B Feeling lightheaded B Sweating B Nausea B Feeling out of breath

or tight pain in the chest which may

arteries. These are often caused by lifestyle related factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and diabetes.

There’s no cure for CHD but treatment surgery

such and

as

medication,

lifestyle

changes

including taking regular exercise and stopping smoking can ease the

spread to the left arm, neck, jaw

Anyone who feels they are having a

or back. Angina attacks are often

heart attack or are with someone

triggered by physical activity or

with these symptoms should call

stress and usually only last for a few

999 straight away.

However, prevention is better than a

Heart failure is where the heart

risk of getting the disease by eating

Also linked to CHD are heart attacks

becomes too weak to pump blood

a balanced, healthy diet, keeping

and heart failure. Heart attacks are

around the body. This can lead to a

physically active, not smoking and

where arteries become completely

build-up of fluid in the lungs, making

keeping cholesterol and sugar levels

blocked and can be fatal or damage

it harder to breathe. It may occur

down.

the heart permanently if not treated

suddenly or develop over time.

minutes.

straight away.

Symptoms are similar to those of

48

a build-up of fatty substances in the

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

symptoms and help to reduce the chances of a heart attack.

cure and it’s possible to reduce the

For

more

information

CHD is caused by the heart’s blood

please visit Care UK's website:

supply being affected or blocked by

www.careuk.com

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49

our events diary

Win a private dining experience

for six with Seven Mile!

Win your own private chef for the evening with a dinner party catered by Worcestershire’s new-fashioned

A

cookery and events company, Seven Mile. brother and sister team, Seven Mile was founded to unite Jake and Janines’ experience

and

talent

in

cooking,

teaching and event management to offer

a wide range of food and event services across the Cotswolds area. Specialising in hearty, often gluten free food, every style of event and audience can be catered for; from elegant, formal dinner parties to street food from their beautifully renovated horse box kitchen.

Winners of the 2014 Enterprising Worcestershire Best Start-Up Award and also nominated as the Best Street Food in the area by the Cotswolds Concierge, Jake and Janine have been catering events across the country over the past eighteen months including

on any scale with sensational food, enormous character but a minimum of fuss. It’s this ‘can-do’

the Christmas Market at Tate Modern in London,

attitude that has given Seven Mile a stellar reputation

The Cotswold Show and the world renowned Henley

for stress free, unforgettable events.

Festival.

The Competition Prize Private Catering & Cookery Classes

You and your guests will enjoy a delicious two-course

Head Chef Jake’s passion for cooking is infectious and

meal, prepared from scratch and cooked in your very

he loves nothing more than to bring the party into

own home by Head Chef, Jake Mitchell. You will also be

the kitchen and include guests in the preparation of

invited to join Jake in the kitchen to begin the evening

a meal; ranging from a quick demonstration to an in-

with a canapé demonstration and tasting.

depth master class, passing on the skills needed to recreate the meal.

For more information about Seven Mile

Coupled with Janine’s decade of event planning

all important entry question, please visit

experience, the team can create memorable events

www.sevenmile.co.uk

Competition For your chance to win a a delicious two-course meal for six people courtesy of Seven Mile, simply fill out the entry form with the correct

and to find out the answer to that

Answer: Name:

answer to the following question:

Which type of horse box did Seven Mile renovate to create its famous food truck?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Seven Mile WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP.ISSUE Closing date for entries is 16th March 2016.

153

50

WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Address: Tel: Email:

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

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51

our events diary

Visiting bromsgrove & redditch Visit beautiful Bromsgrove District for a taste of the countryside that inspired the poetry of A E Housman or Redditch, a surprise waiting for you in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside, just 14 miles from Birmingham.

BROMSGROVE The swathes of green belt provide a different world on the doorstep of the West Midlands conurbations, from the Lickey to the Clent hills with historic Bromsgrove town in the middle.

The old town had a new lease of life recently, with a brand new heritage-grade High Street overlooked by the famous statue of A E Housman, and there’s plenty for visitors to enjoy.

The town’s two major attractions, Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings at one end and Artrix theatre at the other, highlight the mixture of the old and the new.

Avoncroft, with its preserved collection of fascinating old buildings from all over the area, is the perfect choice for a town that birthed the Bromsgrove Guild of Craftsmen, the influential Victorian craft guild that made the gates of Buckingham Palace and Liverpool’s liver birds, and that once made 90% of all the world’s nails.

Meanwhile at the other end of town, the thoroughly modern 300-seat arts and theatre venue Artrix sits in the centre of the community and hosts top acts, shows and films every week.

Between the two main attractions the town’s High

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

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

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

53

our events diary

march & april events in bromsgrove & redditch Sew Small saturday 12th march - sunday 24th april forge mill needle museum See the exquisite skills of the Miniature Needlework Society International’s tiny creations at this new exhibition. Featuring a specially-made furnished doll’s house complete with a stunningly stitched garden, these perfect demonstrations of outstanding craftsmanship showcase a variety of techniques including lace making, tatting, crochet, and embroidery.

Street is home to its 800-year-old market three days a week, and is the focal point for events including regular summer street theatre and the popular Bromsgrove Festival. Last year’s festival saw the legendary French troupe Transe Express draw crowds with their extreme high wire trapeze and percussion in amongst the historic buildings - look out for more this summer.

Redditch With the town’s Kingfisher Shopping Centre among the top ten shopping centres nationwide, it’s no wonder so many come to shop and visit.

Redditch was reborn in 1964 when its new centres, homes and roads were all planned alongside an estimated five million trees in a wealth of green spaces and beautiful landscapes as it became a New Town.

It continues to celebrate its world-renowned needle making industry, preserved at the Forge Mill Needle Museum next to the remains of the 12th century monastic Bordesley Abbey, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

As a large new town with a younger than average population, there are a wide range of vibrant facilities in Redditch from the award-winning Arrow Valley Country Park and sailing lake just a short distance from the town centre to a municipal golf course, major leisure centres, and the famous Palace Theatre on Alcester Street.

The Edwardian Palace Theatre, recently modernised but sensitively preserved, plays a vital role at the centre of the town’s arts and culture scene. Legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham was born in Redditch and he’s just one of the figures you will find adorning some of the town’s many and varied public artworks. From Eduardo Paolozzi’s huge mosaics in the Kingfisher Centre to the giant needles that run stitches through the town centre, the town’s artistic riches are on public display wherever you look.

54

ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Younger visitors can take part in a doll’s house trail and create their own miniature piece to take home.

And you can even see demonstrations by the Miniature Needlework Society International in the museum’s gallery on March 22, 28 and 29, and April 1.

Easter egg trail with Lego and miniature gardens Tuesday 5th & wednesday 6th april forge mill needle museum Forge Mill’s famous mini egg trail is back for this Good Friday and Easter Saturday, this year featuring Lego city and special miniature garden workshops to have a go at.

For details on Forge Mill events including admission times and prices, visit www.forgemill.org.uk.

Easter panto time! Beauty and the Beast Saturday 9th april Redditch Palace Theatre Starring Anne Hegerty from ITV’s The Chase as The Enchantress, the legendary Basil Brush as the Beast’s ever suffering sidekick, and Keith Chegwin, prepare yourself for an all-singing, alldancing, laugh a minute ride through panto land.

Beauty enjoys a quiet provincial life with her father. One day her world is turned upside down when she stumbles across a terrifying Beast who takes her captive and an evil Enchantress holds her kingdom to ransom. Now it is up to the village idiot, his mother and a mysterious good fairy to save the day…

Saturday 9th April, performances 3pm and 7pm. Tickets £14.50 - £16 or £54 family, inclusive of booking fee. For more information visit www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk.

St George’s day and HM The Queen’s birthday saturday 23rd april Bromsgrove High Street There will be a vintage feel to a St George’s day event in Bromsgrove High Street, where the town will also celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. The fun starts at 11am leading up to a 3pm parade to the town’s St John’s Church.

With children’s crafts and activities, music from singing group ‘Vintage Class’ specialising in music from the 1940s and 50s, and show choirs from the Bromsgrove WI and Songstars, together with the Nancy Butterfly morris dancers and classic Austin cars it promises to be a day out for all the family.

N W WORCESTERSHIRE

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

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

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55

our events diary

MARCH ThroughOUT MARCH Family pottery sessions Eastnor Pottery Home Farm Eastnor Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1RD Cost: Starts from £5 Tel: 01531 633886

Tuesday 1st - Sunday 6th A PICTORIAL VIEW OF REDDITCH Forge Mill Needle Museum & Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre Needle Mill Lane Riverside Redditch B98 8HY www.forgemill.org.uk

Wednesday 2nd - Sunday 27th TAKE 13: A WOMEN’S COLLECTIVE Artrix Arts Centre Slideslow Drive Bromsgrove Worcestershire B60 1PQ www.take13artists.com

Thursday 3rd Open Garden for NGS Red House Farm Redditch Worcestershire B96 6QT www.redhousefarmgardenandnursery.co.uk

Restoring Wilden Marsh Holy Innocents Community Hall

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Stourport Rd Foley Park Kidderminster DY11 6LA Cost: £2.50 Tel: 01562 67734

Saturday 5th Charities Mini-Market United Reformed Church Hall Malvern Link Malvern Tel: 01684 892772

Nigel Clark from dodgy & The Standard Lamps The Cube Malvern Great Malvern www.malverncube.com

Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Shakespeare Pershore Abbey Pershore Cost: £12 www.worcesterphilharmonic.co.uk

Sunday 6th Free Cream Tea for Mums!

Arley Arboretumn The Estate Office Upper Arley Nr. Bewdley Worcestershire DY12 1XG www.arleyarboretum.co.uk

Antiques & Collectors Fair Three Counties Showground Upton

Malvern www.b2bevents.info

Thursday 10th Saturday 12th Stitch & Creative Craft Show Three Counties Showground Upton Malvern www.stitchandcreativecrafts.co.uk

Saturday 12th Behind the Scenes Tour Witley Court Tenbury Wells www.english-heritage.org.uk/witley

Guided Town Walk Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre Victoria Square Droitwich Spa WR9 8DS Cost: £2 Tel: 01905 774312

Live Room Comedy Cavern The Old Cock Inn 77 Friar Street Droitwich WR9 8EQ Cost: £2 (advance booking) or £3 on the night www.oldcockinn.co.uk

Sunday 13th craft and food market Croome High Green Worcester WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006

>>

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our events diary

The Canterbury Tales Feckenham Village Hall High Street Feckenham Nr Redditch Worcestershire B96 6HN www.ticketsource.co.uk/feckenham

Tuesday 15th John Rutter: Gloria Worcester Cathedral Chapter Office 8 College Yard Worcester WR1 2LA www.worcestercathedral.co.uk

Thursday 17th Wool Spinning Course Avoncroft Museum Stoke Heath Bromsgrove B60 4JR Cost: £40 Tel: 01527 831363

Head Gardener Spring Tour Witley Court Tenbury Wells www.english-heritage.org.uk/witley

Little Malvern Court garden open Date: 20 March 2016 Little Malvern Court Great Malvern Cost: £7 www.littlemalverncourt.co.uk

SATURDAY 19TH Farmers Market Malvern Abbey Road Malvern WR14 3HD

Saturday 19th Beginners Photography Courses Arley Arboretum The Estate Office Upper Arley Nr. Bewdley Worcestershire DY12 1XG www.arleyarboretum.co.uk/ courses/beginners-photography

Sunday 20th the great british dog walk Croome High Green Worcester WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006

FRIDAY 25TH Malvern Jazz Weekend Various venues across Malvern www.malvernjazzweekend.co.uk

Saturday 26th Artisan Food, Arts and Craft Market Malvern Abbey Road Malvern WR14 3HD

Sunday 27th & Monday 28th Easter Family Fun Days Avoncroft Museum Stoke Heath

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016

Bromsgrove B60 4JR Tel: 01527 831363

Tuesday 29th – Thursday 31st Roald Dahl Anniversary Avoncroft Museum Stoke Heath Bromsgrove B60 4JR Tel: 01527 831363

THURSDAY 31ST Animal Eggstravaganza Elgar Birthplace Museum Crown East Lane Lower Broadheath Worcester WR2 6RH www.elgarmuseum.org

CountryTastic Three Counties Showground Malvern Worcestershire WR13 6NW Cost: £6 www.threecounties.co.uk

april Wednesday 6th Emma Johnson and Finzi's Clarinet Concerto Huntingdon Hall Crowngate Worcester WR1 3LD www.worcesterlive.co.uk

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ISSUE 153 WORCESTERSHIRE Now march 2016