Worcestershire NOW SEPTEMBER 2018

Worcestershire

Now

Small School, Big Ambitions

Dodderhill Independent Girls

See page 49 for more information SNOOZE YOUR WAY TO HEALTH CHOOSING WEDDING WINE PREPARING FOR SCHOOL SEPTEMBER 2018 | ISSUE 181

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HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK • WALKS • HEALTH & BEAUTY • WHAT’S ON • COMPETITIONS

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Worcestershire

Now

10

20 18

Contents

30

SEPTEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN 10

Snooze Your Way to Health During Sleeptember

16

Hayfield Meadow Selling Fast!

18

The GreenThumb Makeover

20

Autumn Stars

22

Ten Pollution-Tolerant Plants

24

Nature Notebook

24

HEALTH & BEAUTY 26

Our Guide to Beautiful Hair

28

Competition L’Occitane

30

Competition Aureus Spa, Bromsgrove

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

NOW 01905 723011 nowmagazines.co.uk 2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

EDITOR

DESIGN

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

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

ADVERTISING Genna McCann-Taylor 01905 727902 genna@pw-media.co.uk Rachel Seabright 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Bex Small bex@pw-media.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS Peter Allen Warwickshire College Wendy Carter Worcester Wildlife Trust

Laura Clay Association of Wine Educators Glynis Dray Virginia Jaques Alzheimer’s Society Jeff Thomas - APAC Ltd Broadway Museum & Art Gallery Croome Cuisine GreenThumb Worcester Old Court Nurseries Wyevale Garden Centres

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32

38

WEDDINGS 32

Wedding Wines

FOOD & DRINK 38

Pear & Cinnamon Tarte Tatin with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

40

The Best Cocktails For Autumn and Halloween

GOLDEN YEARS

48

42

42

Take Action to Reduce Your Risk of Dementia

EDUCATION 48

Preparing Your Child For Secondary School

54

Do You Have a Passion For Helping Children?

56

The Education Landscape is Changing

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Malvern Autumn Show D. Jones, Worcester H. Robinson, Pershore Mrs Hawkins, Redditch

58

What’s On

62

Walk Alvechurch Bittell Reservoirs

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA

Popular Sculpture Trail returns to the Jinney Ring Craft Centre The popular Sculpture Trail returns to the Jinney

themed area set in a hidden corner of

see www.jinneyring.co.uk or call 01527 821272

Ring Craft Centre in Hanbury on Saturday 25th

the garden which is full of surprises and

for more details. All the works featured in the

August, featuring 100 outdoor sculptures made

interesting characters.

Sculpture Trail are available for purchase. n

by local and nationally-acclaimed artists.

A free Sculpture Trail guide is available on

Visitors are invited to explore the free outdoor

site and will take visitors on a leisurely stroll

exhibition which is set out across the gardens

around all the pieces and provide more

of the Jinney Ring and enjoy the wide variety

information about the exhibition.

of pieces on show. The Sculpture Trail includes animals, figures, fantasy and abstract pieces created from different materials using both traditional and innovative techniques.

Owner of the Jinney Ring, Amanda Sunter, says: “We are delighted to open the Sculpture Trail for its twelfth year. It’s a great draw to visitors to the area, both local and from further

Many favourite artists from previous years are

afield, and helps to raise the profile of talented

returning to show their work, but this year’s

UK sculptors. We’re hoping everyone will

Sculpture Trail also features pieces from

agree that this is the best Trail yet”.

10 new sculptors who are exhibiting at the Jinney Ring for the first time.

The Sculpture Trail is open from 11am until 4pm daily and runs from Saturday 25th August until

An exciting new addition to this year’s Trail

Sunday 30th September at Jinney Ring Craft

is “The Secret Garden”, a special fantasy-

Centre, Hanbury, near Bromsgrove. Please

Free Radio Cash For Kids launch gift drive & invite everyone to join their ‘Mission Christmas’ WHAT IS OUR MISSION?

2. Fundraise or donate money that will

Very simply, we need YOU to donate an

enable us to buy more gifts. We need this

extra Christmas present for those children

money to buy gifts for children 0-3 and 10+

who’d otherwise wake up with nothing on

who we always have a shortage of gifts for!

December 25th.

Get your employer involved or your work

WHO DO WE HELP? We have relationships with social services, There are thousands of children across the local area who are finding life tough. They could be living in poverty, with an illness or disability or be subject to neglect or abuse. We want to make a

councils, women’s aid groups, financial inclusion partnerships, police & fire services, youth groups and local foodbanks who all ensure that the gifts we give out go to those most in need.

colleagues, do a Christmas Jumper Day, Christmas Bake Sale or something else.

Get your personalised fundraising page at freeradio.co.uk/cashforkids We can’t end poverty, but we can make life just that little bit better for local

difference to the lives of these children, so that’s

HOW DO WE HELP?

children who aren’t having the childhood

exactly why we created Free Radio’s Cash for

1. Take your gift donations to your nearest

they deserve, especially at such a magical

Kids & exactly why, at this most special time of

B&M store, or find your nearest drop off

time of year. We sincerely hope you’ll join

year, ‘Mission Christmas’ returns!

point at freeradio.co.uk/cashforkids

our Mission! n

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HERE & NOW

FIVE WORCESTERSHIRE ATHLETES TO COMPETE IN 2018 SCHOOL GAMES Five athletes from Worcestershire have been selected to compete in Netball at the 2018 School Games – a national multi-sport event for the UK’s most talented schoolage athletes taking place at Loughborough University from 30 August to 2 September.

Emily Seymour-Perry, 15, from Kidderminster, goes to RGS Worcester School and plays for Saracens Netball Club.

She was previously selected for Severn Stars NOVA and, in 2017, her U14 Saracens team were runners up in the Regional Finals.

15-year-old Corey McGlynn, also from Kidderminster, attends Bromsgrove School and is a member of Charnwood Rutland Netball Club. She came in third place with her team at the U16 Nationals.

Mia Mathewson, also 15, from Broadwas, attends Kings School Worcester and describes her best sporting highlight as becoming a National School U16 Finalist (finishing 8th) and becoming a quarterfinalist of the SMILE cup.

Georgina Thorp, 15, from Worcester, also goes to King’s School Worcester and plays for Saracens Netball Club. She was previously selected for the U17 Nova Worcester Academy.

Madeleine Mcleod, 14, from St Peters, attends RGS Worcester School and also plays for Saracens Netball Club. A keen athlete, she also competes in High Jump.

Whereas Seymour-Perry, Mathewson, Thorp and Mcleod will represent team Severn Stars at the School Games, McGlynn will be part of the Loughborough Lightning squad.

Over 1,400 athletes will compete across 11 sports at the School Games, five of which

n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

include disability disciplines. This year the School Games has introduced four new sports (Canoeing & Rowing, Laser Run, Netball and Triathlon). The event will give young people, across a variety of different sports, an experience of high-level competition in a multi-sport environment similar to an Olympic or Paralympic Games.

The quintet will be following in the footsteps of some of Britain’s biggest sporting stars who have competed at the event before going on to senior international success. Previous competitors include Paralympic champions Hannah Cockroft, Ellie Simmonds and Jonnie Peacock, Olympic champion Adam Peaty, heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson and sprinter Adam Gemili.

At the event the athletes will experience the excitement of competing at the highest level. They will live in a dedicated Athletes’ Village on the Loughborough University campus, take part in a School Games ceremony and perform in front of huge crowds of spectators.

“The School Games National Finals provide a great opportunity for talented young athletes like these girls,” says Ali Oliver, Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Sport Trust. “Competitors get a real taste of what it’s like to be part of a world-class sporting event at the amazing sporting venues of Loughborough University, and the event is a great way to see our future sporting champions in action today.”

The 2018 School Games is supported

by National Lottery funding from Sport England and Home Country Sports Councils and is delivered by the Youth Sport Trust. n

VAMOS THEATRE GROUP Young people that are serious about theatre can now join one of the brightest and boldest youth theatres around.

Vamos Youth Theatre (VYT) is for young people (13-21yrs) who love theatre and want to learn more - for themselves or for a future career in the industry.

VYT is a challenging, exciting and creative place to learn new theatre skills, and members need to be committed and focussed. Guided by theatre professionals, the group meets weekly in term time, developing skills like voice work, improvisation, characterisation, physical theatre and the funny and fearless full mask for which Vamos Theatre is internationally renowned. There are plenty of opportunities to take part in performances and share new skills with family and friends.

VYT is a place to discover and develop performance skills in a safe and supportive environment, where everyone is valued and treated with respect.

We meet on Wednesdays between 5:30pm and 7:00pm in central Worcester. Cost is £60 per person and place are limited, so if you’d like to find out more, visit our website at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/Youth-Theatre or email vyt@vamostheatre.co.uk n

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HOME & GARDEN

Sn

h t l a r e e H b

o m t e t y p a e le rW

S u o g Y n i e r Du ooz

cil oun leep.

C leep ight’s s S e h n er, T better m m a E su PAG ter ocus on f THE a R e f OVE ED sum ime to e INU r T N t es CO utin – is the o r r lar mbe egu r e t d n ep ck a or Sle a b – go ber ols m o e h c pt As s sts Se ge sug

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HOME & GARDEN

Sleeptember is a monthlong campaign dedicated to promoting the healthy benefits of a good night’s sleep.

Said Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council: “During the summer months our sleeping patterns tend to change – longer, lighter evenings and holidays can result in us finding it difficult to get back into a routine. Yet many people don’t realise that sleep fulfils a vital role in keeping us healthy and happy, much like proper nutrition and exercise.

Do you have the right bed?

Having the correct bed for you is the foundation of a quality night’s sleep.

Research

shows

that

sleeping

on

an

uncomfortable bed could deprive you of up to an hour’s sleep a night. We’d advise replacing your bed after around seven years.

Create the ideal sleep environment A calm and relaxing bedroom is key to a good night’s sleep. Keeping your bedroom quiet, cool and dark will help create the ideal environment.

“In our September campaign, we want people to become more aware of how well they sleep and the host of health benefits quality sleep can bring.

Turn off electronics

“Poor sleep and fatigue are common problems affecting millions of people, and just one bad night’s sleep can influence our mood, concentration and alertness. Longterm sleep deprivation has far more serious consequences and has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and stroke.”

just before bed makes it harder to switch

If you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep, try following The Sleep Council’s Sleeptember tips:

Keep a routine

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TVs, smart phones, laptops, radios and games consoles all have a significant impact on our sleeping habits. Using a gadget off and wind down. Even exposure to the weakest glow of blue, electronic light – such as a notification flashing up on your mobile phone – can unconsciously play havoc with your body’s circadian rhythms, keeping you alert when you should be sleepy.

Our body’s love routine when it comes to sleep, so make sure you don’t neglect it.

Going to bed and getting up at roughly the same every day helps to program the body to sleep better.

And breathe...

Bedtime is your time to switch off – or it should be. Meditation is a great tool to help calm our minds down and relax our bodies.

You could also try having a warm bath before bed, listening to quiet music, deep breathing or yoga. If you’re the sort of person who starts to worry when you get into bed, or makes ‘to do’ lists in your head, try writing down the things you need to tackle – you can deal with those in the morning after a good night’s sleep!

Time to change your bedding?

We’ve all seen tog values on duvets, but might not necessarily know what they really mean. In a purely scientific sense, a tog is a measurement of thermal insulation, with a low number indicating quite a low level of insulation and a high number meaning something that will keep you as warm as toast. However, a higher tog value isn’t always better, as most people sleep more CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

soundly when their body is kept at a cool to normal temperature. So most sleep experts agree that you should set the thermostat to around 65°F or 18°C and manage your body temperature with a duvet that’s designed for the season of the year.

That ideally means choosing a tog value of 3.5 to 7.5 in Summer, changing to something between 7.5 and 10.5 in Spring and Autumn.

Then if you want to stay warm in bed throughout the Winter, you should consider a duvet with a tog value of 13.5 to 15.0.

Which type of duvet filling is right for you?

There are a wide range of duvet fillings now available, with options to suit those who suffer from allergies and asthma as well as to meet personal preferences ranging from slim and light to deep and downy.

Anti-Allergy Duvet Fillings It has been proven that 25% of allergic conditions and 50% of asthmatic conditions are caused by house dust mites, which are most commonly found living in bedding such as pillows and duvets. So if any member of the family suffers from allergies or asthma,

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

it is well worth choosing an ‘anti-allergy’ duvet filling, Hollowfibre Fillings Hollowfibre fillings are made from spun polyester and so are naturally non-allergenic and machine washable. There are lots of different grades of hollowfibres available so it is always best to view and feel the quilt rather than buying online.

Natural Duvet Fillings Made from the feathers and down of ducks and geese, many people still love natural

duvet fillings for their softness, lightness and natural breathability. After all, it was the softness and warm of natural products like these that inspired the first continental quilts, as duvets were once known. Natural duvet fillings are also incredibly durable, though they may need ‘fluffing up’ a little more often than hollowfibre duvets. It is also worth bearing in mind that those who suffer from allergies or asthma are best avoiding natural duvet fillings, and choosing hollowfibre instead. n

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HOME & GARDEN

Hayfield Meadow

Selling Fast!

Hayfield Homes, in partnership with Knight Frank New Homes, launched Hayfield Meadow to the market in July and this popular development is already a firm favourite with house-hunters in and around Worcester. cloakroom, open-plan sitting/dining area with double doors to the rear garden. To the first floor are two good sized bedrooms (master with en suite) and family bathroom.

Unlike most 2-bedroom properties, these come with a single garage and parking.

The Martley (£375,000) - a thoughtfully arranged detached family home, with spacious sitting room with large bay window, open plan kitchen/dining room with double doors leading out to the landscaped garden. To the first floor are three spacious bedrooms (master with en suite) and family bathroom. Single garage and parking.

The Warmington (£400,000) – a spacious and well-designed 3-bedroom family home, with a good-sized open plan kitchen/diner with bi-fold doors to the rear, and a large sitting room spanning the depth of the house, with doors to the rear garden. To the first floor are two double bedrooms (master with en suite and dressing room), and a further, large single bedroom. Single garage and parking.

The Hallow (£525,000) - a charming detached family home with an impressive kitchen/dining/living room extending to Many of the properties are already reserved, so now is the time to visit to ensure that you don’t miss out on what could be your next new home!

Surrounded by beautiful countryside and only 3 miles from Worcester city centre, this collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes showcase Hayfield’s high calibre workmanship, meticulous attention to detail and are finished to a top quality specification. The site itself is steeped in history, divided by an ancient walkway, known locally as “The Pinch”. The village of Hallow offers a good range of facilities – a primary school, village store, post office, The Crown Inn, tennis club, equestrian centre and regular bus service into Worcester. The Chantry School is nearby, in the village of Martley. Worcester city centre is only 3 miles from the village, offering a wide range of shopping, cultural and entertainment facilities, not to mention excellent road and rail links to Cheltenham, Birmingham and beyond.

With prices ranging from £265,000 to £595,000, there are a handful of houses remaining at Hayfield Meadow: The Lulsley (prices from £265,000) - a spacious and light 2-bedroom home, with an open-plan kitchen, ground floor n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

the full depth of the property, with double doors opening to the garden and utility room off. Separate spacious sitting room, with doors to the rear garden and a study to the front of the property. To the first floor are four spacious and comfortable bedrooms (two en suite) and a family bathroom. Double garage and parking.

The Radley (£595,000) - a distinctively designed detached family home with an impressive kitchen/dining/family room extending to the full depth of the property, with bi-fold doors opening to the landscaped garden. Separate utility room and larder off the kitchen. Spacious sitting room with doors leading to the rear garden, and separate dining room with bay window to the front. Four spacious and comfortable bedrooms are found on the first floor (master with en suite and dressing room) and family bathroom. Double garage and parking.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit these exceptional, characterful new homes. The show home is open 7 days a week, from 10am to 5pm. For any further enquiries, please contact Knight Frank’s New Homes Team at the Worcester office 01905 746 880 kit.north@knightfrank.com. n

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HOME & GARDEN

The GreenThumb

Makeover

When it comes to creating a beautiful lawn, we are proud to be the first choice of over a million people all across the United Kingdom. With over 30 years of exceptional service, exclusive GreenThumb-only tailored products and millions of treatments carried out every year. it’s no wonder GreenThumb customers say we are simply the best when it comes to caring for your lawn. We are the Lawn Treatment Service you can rely on and trust, to apply our knowledge and passion to do our very best for your lawn.

Oasis Treatment Even though we all enjoy the warmer weather; we are seeing the impact it can have on our lawns. Due to the hot summer and lack of rainfall we have experienced – many have unfortunately been left with a dry and exhausted looking lawn. We would recommend to aid recovery next summer – our Oasis Treatment as well as a water management programme.

Oasis is a GreenThumb water management treatment for your lawn. It has been specifically designed to help with the effects of dehydrated grass.

How does it work? When the Oasis liquid spray treatment is applied, it helps water move into the soil very quickly. Lack of rainfall can cause soil to become so dry that it becomes hydrophobic: Oasis will assist by attracting moisture to the repellent soil and this helps to re-wet the soil allowing full recovery.

Fertiliser GreenThumb use one of the best fertilisers n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

in the world for lawns and it is exclusive to our customers. We use a controlled release fertiliser, which is designed to keep the nitrogen away from the grass, thus protecting it. It only releases when there is sufficient moisture, allowing the nutrients to release into the soil and giving the plant what is required to encourage growth.

Helping Prepare Your Lawn for Next Year The recent weather we’ve had has caused many lawns to suffer with serious levels of compaction, this along with increased levels of thatch will encourage moss development: thankfully our Autumn-Winter Programme will help tackle these problems. Aeration and Scarification which include a specialised feed, which restricts root development will also be of benefit.

moisture to reach the necessary part of your lawn’s root zone – which thatch prevents.

Reducing thatch will improve air movement, lawn treatment effectiveness and reduce moss – all resulting in a healthier lawn.

In Need of a Makeover?

‘A Miracle’ is how many of our customers describe their lawn’s transformation following our Lawn Makeover. Not a superficial, quick fix – our Lawn Makeover is a 12-step process that gives you a brand-new lawn; all at a fraction of the cost of returfing.

The Lawn Makeover is a tough and vigorous process, but our Makeover Specialists usually complete the work in 1 day.

Aeration Hollow-Tine Aeration is the most effective way to reduce sub-surface thatch and compaction: it is the process of punching thousands of cores out of the lawn. The benefits include: Thinning out sub-surface thatch; Relieving soil compaction; Promoting root development; and Reducing moss-loving environment

The Process: Brand-New Lawn: existing lawn is removed using ‘clean label’ weed killer; Old lawn bagged-up and taken to a recycling plant for composting - bags also recycled; Best Fescue and Rye cultivars chosen and applied; 100% Weed Free, Organic Recycled Dressing, Finest Screened Peat-Free Dressing available; Bespoke Feeding Treatment; Oasis Treatment; Lawn Watering Regime Programmed (Equipment provided); and a 3 Visit After Care Package including Nutragreen® feed

Scarification A mechanical process that removes surface thatch and allows fresh growth: Scarification enables essential nutrients, oxygen and

If your lawn needs a makeover or any of our other treatments, please contact us for a free no-obligation quote. Telephone 01905 840740. n

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HOME & GARDEN

Autumn Stars

Autumn is on our doorstep and our thoughts turn to preparing for the dreaded ‘W’ word to start again.

The glorious summer borders of the English garden are fading from our memories and the days are drawing in. Mother nature is putting on her last change of finery, all golden, red and purple hues.

Yet there is one plant that is determined not to let autumn pass quietly, they’ve grown away all year clothed in green or perhaps a bronze tint here and there but now they burst forth to take centre stage. The stars of the autumn garden are here and how they shine!

I am of course referring to autumn flowering asters often better known as Michaelmas Daisies. A diverse group of hardy perennial plants that have had their ups and downs over the years but are without doubt the essential ingredient to a fresh and colourful autumn garden. Best of all with more than 450 varieties from not only several species, but due to recent name changes a number of different genus, there is going to be one suitable for your garden no matter what shape, size nor location.

Although none are native to the UK they have been grown in this country for many centuries. The earliest record is from 1596 where the European, Aster amellus was being grown in John Gerard’s Holborn Physic garden. Then they weren’t being grown for their large attractive single daisies in shades of lavender, violet and pink but because they were believed to have curative properties. Over the centuries they have become a much-admired garden plant, requiring little except sun, and good winter drainage, yet rewarding us with colour from August onwards. Though Aster amellus may be outshone by their hybrid offspring, Aster x frikartii. Masses of generous lavender-blue flowers from late July to the end of October is certainly hard to beat. The combination of Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ with the simple flowers of Japanese anemones, and the fiery shades of Crocosmia’s such as ‘Tamar Glow’ can be enough to bring light to a whole garden if space is limited. n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

These though are only the support act. As from midSeptember the North American contingent come out to play. The diverse New York Asters bring lavenders, pinks, purples, reds and whites from 15cm (6”) all the way up to elegant beauties like ‘Anita Ballard’ with her light china blue flowers at 150 cm (4’ 9”). Although the species Symphyotrichum novi-belgii came from North America in the 1700’s most of the breeding work was carried out in the UK and Europe between 1900 and 1970 leaving us with a heritage of more than 300 cultivars to choose from.

Following them closely are the New England Asters with their stout woody stems and resilient nature, they bring a dash of colour to any sunny border. Generally, tall they are excellent at the back where they can lift a dulling spot but hide their slightly leggy stems in a skirt of other foliage.

Unique to the New England’s are the fabulous sugar pinks with S. novae-angliae ‘Anabelle de Chazal’ being one of the nicest examples. As October rolls on the texture of our Michaelmas daisies begins to change, becoming light and airy in pastel shades as the small flowered species and hybrids come out to complete the grand finale. These subtler players create gentle clouds in the garden, a late feast for insects and people alike.

There isn’t room here to extoll the full virtues of this wonderful group of plants, besides sometimes nothing but seeing them for yourself will do. So, if you are looking for some inspiration to give your garden an autumn lift then don’t forget the hard-working Michaelmas daisy. Visit one of the National collections, a list of which can be found on Plant Heritage’s website, between mid-September and the second week of October to fully explore the range available. n Helen Picton Old Court Nurseries

HOME & GARDEN

THE

Fabrik SHOP

24a Broad Street, Pershore Tel: 01386 553 626 e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com

More than just the Michaelmas daisy specialists

We are a family business with 111 years experience in supplying high quality home grown plants, most can also be found in the 1.5 acre adjoining garden.

Stockists of: Dressmaking, patchwork and curtain fabrics as well as waddings, cutters, boards and useful craft items.

Fat quarters from £1

Walwyn Road, Colwall, WR13 6QE • Tel: 01684 540416

www.autumnasters.co.uk

Opening Times: September - 20th October, Everyday 11am-5pm

SALES | SERVICE | PARTS | HIRE

Here at Holden we offer a professional and friendly service to all our customers and are happy to give free advice on all types of equipment such as ride on tractors, chainsaws and lawn mowers on sale in our showroom. Our showroom displays the latest models available on the market with great showroom prices to go with it.

Customers need to go no further in their search for their perfect piece of equipment as we have a wide range of machinery, friendly staff and a service department to back you up all the way.

We also provided our customers with demonstrations on the larger machines, giving you the peace of mind that the machine is the one for the job.

If you’re looking to part exchange your current model of machinery, we offer a free valuation of your machine from our showroom.

We also have a hire department within our showroom with the latest models for all your gardening needs.

HOLDEN GARDEN MACHINERY WESTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, HONEYBOURNE, EVESHAM, WORCESTERSHIRE WR11 7QB

TEL: 01386 841285 | WWW.HOLDENGARDENMACHINERY.CO.UK

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HOME & GARDEN

Ten Pollution-Tolerant Plants

and How to Care For Them

Just like humans, plants that live in cities, industrial, or built-up areas are susceptible to pollution. As they rely on carbon dioxide in clean air for photosynthesis and to prevent fungal diseases, most plants struggle to thrive in polluted areas, however there are some species that will stand the smog, says Wyevale Garden Centres.

Platanus x hispanica, better known as the London plane tree is the city’s most common tree and it’s because it does so well in highly polluted areas. Other varieties that will also do perfectly well include the ornamental pear, an exceptionally good tree for small urban gardens, buddleja, well known for attracting butterflies and buxus sempervirens, the classic British native evergreen that has formed the backbone of formal planting schemes for hundreds of years.

David Mitchell, Buying Manager for Horticulture at Wyevale Garden Centres, says: “Plants do have a hard time with pollution.

Since the leaves need to ‘breathe’, anything that limits that exchange, such as airborne gasses or if the pores are blocked by dust and grime, will limit their potential. Fruit trees in particular can struggle and yields can be as low as half of what they would be in cleaner air.

Never water the leaves as if they are coated in grime, salts or pollutants it will get right into them, so always water from the base. Every so often take time to wipe the leaves down and clean them to get the grime or dirt off. A good time to do it is when it’s raining heavily.

You might not clean every leaf at every level but it will make a difference. I use an old paintbrush to do this. Time spent on this will be very worthwhile. Also, expect plants in pots in cities to need a bit more feeding.”

Wyevale Garden Centres lists 10 pollutiontolerant plants and how to care for them: 1. Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’: This ornamental pear is an exceptionally good tree for small urban gardens, with its upright, narrow shape and branches that are smothered with white blossom early in spring (April to May).

The leaves turn a vibrant red and purple in the autumn before falling and some years, the tree will produce small inedible brown fruits. It n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

does best in a moist but well drained soil (clay, sand or loam) and in full sun.

2. Buddleja: Known as the butterfly bush, Buddleja produces clusters of deep scented flowers from midsummer into autumn (July to September). Rich in nectar, this fast-growing, hardy deciduous shrub attracts butterflies, bees and other insects and thrives in any welldrained soil (chalk, loam or sand).

3. Camellia: Producing rich, colourful flowers with ruffled petals and golden stamens in late winter into spring (February to April), which are offset by glossy evergreen leaves, the Camellia proves that beautiful plants can also be tolerant to pollution. Plant in light shade and in shelter and in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, lime-free soil (loam) or in a container, in ericaceous (lime-free) compost.

4. Buxus sempervirens: This classic British native evergreen is ideal for low hedging, boundaries or divisions in formal gardens in both modern and traditional settings.

It responds well to being trimmed and thrives in the shade and most well-drained soils (chalk, loam or sand). It’s excellent for growing in containers, as topiary and for training as feature plants.

5. Lonicera x heckrottii ‘Gold Flame’: This honeysuckle flowers in summer (June to August) and bears tubular pink flowers with warm orange-yellow petals. It has a delicious fragrance and bees and butterflies love it!

It doesn’t have the twining branches that many other honeysuckles do, so needs to be supported. It’s best in moist but welldrained soil (chalk, loam or sand) in sun or partial shade and ideal for informal borders and cottage garden style planting.

6. Ginkgo biloba: This large deciduous tree will be too big for small urban gardens, but it’s worth mentioning, as it’s very tolerant to pollution. It has fan-shaped leaves, which

turn yellow in autumn and on female trees, produce yellow fruits which smell rather unpleasant! It will thrive in well-drained soil (chalk, loam, sand or clay).

7. Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Charles Lamont’: This is a superb variety of viburnum as it has bright pink, sweetly scented flowers which open on dark stems from November to May. It’s a vigorous, upright shrub, that looks good all year and is easy to grow in moist but welldrained fertile soil (chalk, loam or sand), in sun or light shade and sheltered from cold winds.

8. Berberis: This easy to grow barberry has spiny shoots and simple leaves. Soft yellow or orange flowers appear in spring (April to May) and are followed by small berries in the autumn. This deciduous or evergreen shrub will succeed in a wide range of conditions.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in welldrained humus-rich soil (chalk, loam or sand), although it will be tolerant of most soils as long as they are reasonably well-drained.

9. Chaenomeles: Chaenomeles flower in spring and produce edible fruits in autumn, which can be used for jellymaking. It provides early nectar for bees and thrives in any welldrained, fertile soil (chalk, loam or sand), in sun or light shade. It’s great for training under house windows or on low walls and fences.

10. Escallonia ‘Iveyi’: This is a handsome, vigorous, large evergreen shrub, quite different from other escallonias, with larger, glossy, rich green leaves and clusters of scented white flowers in mid and late summer (July to August).

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil (chalk, loam or sand) in full sun or partial shade, sheltered from cold winds. It can be grown in the open in mild areas, but it’s best grown against a southfacing wall in cold areas. n For more information about Wyevale Garden Centres, visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk.

HOME & GARDEN

Worcestershire

Now

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

Genna McCann-Taylor

Rachel Seabright

Tel: 01905 727902 Email: genna@pw-media.co.uk

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

NATURE NOTEBOOK Common Blue Male © Vicky Nall

Long Hot Summer Even more than usual, the weather has been the talk of the town this year.

We may have been melting in the heat but how’s the wildlife been getting on?

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

There will have been winners and losers worms, for example, will have burrowed way down into the earth, making it harder for birds to find food for themselves and for their growing youngsters. Butterflies and moths, though, will have laid lots of eggs; their caterpillars are perfect food for blue and great tits.

potentially bad news for next year. Berries and fruit

This summer’s temperatures have probably helped our insects - heat makes the younger stages develop more quickly and the less time spent in those vulnerable stages, the better. There have been reports of grasshoppers and crickets developing earlier than usual and large numbers have emerged, triggering the development of more longer-winged adults – these are the ones that take off on an adventure to find new places to breed. Take Roesel’s bush-cricket as an example; they’ve only been in Worcestershire for 15 or so years, having moved north through the UK as the weather has become milder. Events like this summer will probably trigger plenty of movements like this.

have dissipated so why not think about what you can

The flipside? When rivers, streams, ponds and waterbodies dry up, the results for aquatic life are obvious. More hidden problems are that thirsty plants make for thirsty pollinators like bees and hoverflies. Dying plants are problematic - common blue butterflies have been out in good numbers but they need to lay eggs on bird’s-foot trefoil and that’s gone over in many places before eggs have been laid;

n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

will be ripening earlier than usual – not great if you’re a dormouse or a bird that needs food in the autumn.

At the time of writing, meteorologists are predicting another month or so of above-average temperatures so who knows what autumn will bring. You can, however, do your bit to help wildlife. The heat of summer may do in your garden or community greenspace: • Put out a clean, fresh water supply (pop a stone in the middle to help insects that fall in) • Top up the bird bath with clean, fresh water • Top up your bird or other wildlife feeders (cat and dog food for hedgehogs perhaps) • Provide cover from the elements – logs, raised slabs, rockeries, tall grass • Keep your pond topped up with water from your water butts (if you use tap water add it little and often) • If you’ve got the space, plant berrying trees and shrubs like spindle, rowan, cotoneaster or pyracantha Don’t forget that if you’re doing something for wildlife, you can help us to turn Worcestershire wild – visit our Pledge a Patch webpage to find out more www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/pledgeapatch n Wendy Carter, Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

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

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Our Guide For

Beautiful Hair

1

2

3

1. JOHN MASTERS ORGANICS Our silky, rich Hair Mask was developed with multiple benefits in mind: To help balance moisture levels, repair split ends, and nourish and stimulate the scalp. Ideal for normal hair, it’s the easiest way to maintain shiny, lustrous locks, and a healthy scalp in less than five minutes. John Masters Organics newly reformulated Shampoo for Normal Hair is infused with pure essential oils of organic French Lavender and Rosemary; the ultimate power couple to revitalize hair.

2. COLOR WOW Dream Coat and Dream Coat for Curly Hair is an award-winning anti-humidity spray keeps your blow-dry style from becoming a “hot mess” in the steamiest weather. Plus, totally transforms your

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

4

texture into liquid-y, silky strands with blinding shine. £19.99

3. L’OCCITANE Generous creamy formulas enriched with extracts of olive oil and olive tree leaves along with five essential oils of cedar, lavender, camomilla, lemon and eucalyptus. The Nourishing Care hair trio provides concentrated nourishment for dry to very dry hair, right from the roots and all the way to the tips.

From the very first use, hair fibres feel nourished, protected and silky smooth without being weighed down. Free from sulfates and silicones and scented with 100% natural essential oils to ensure hair feels light and bouncy whilst having the natural scent of a fresh Provençal breeze. Shampoo & Conditioner £19.00 (each). Hair Mask £26.00

5

4. REN A gentle shampoo based on mild cleansers sourced from Oats and using bio actives from Bay Oil (stimulating) and Lemon Oil (cleansing). This product uses only 100% natural fragrance and is free from harsh sulphate detergents and synthetic colours. £45.00

5. ESPA A luxuriously rich and creamy shampoo and conditioner to gently cleanse and effectively remove product build-up without irritating the hair or scalp. Coconut, Jojoba and Olive Oils lightly condition so hair feels soft and silky, while Honey and ProVitamin encourage hair to retain moisture, helping to strengthen and improve shine. Silicone, SLES and SLS free. £21.00 (each)

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Competition L’OCCITANE

L’OCCITANE Overnight Reset Serum: We are living increasingly more demanding lives and sleeping a whole two hours less each night compared to the 1960’s. As a result, skin fatigue is more common and a primary concern of consumers.

But what if you could hit ‘reset’, erase the impact of stress and fatigue and wake up each morning with fresh, rested healthy looking skin?

Introducing L’OCCITANE Overnight Reset Serum.

Upon application the first texture is a light water-gel, infused with Marjoram and Acmella Oleacera. This is fast absorbed and quick to act. Then, thousands of suspended golden bubbles deliver a powerful dose of Immortelle oil, which are slowly released deep into the skin. A satin smooth finish delivers instant hydration without any greasiness or stickiness.

Overnight Reset Serum can be used within any skincare routine but for the ultimate luxury pampering session, L’OCCITANE recommends using it alongside Immortelle Divine Cream: Containing Immortelle and Myrtle organic essential oils known for their extraordinary powers of longevity and regeneration, this exceptional patented anti-ageing cream fights visible signs of ageing and helps preserve the skin’s youth.

Organic Immortelle essential oil increases the production of collagen in skin by up to six times. It can also double the rate of micro-circulation, reduce redness and inflammation and protect from free radicals. Organic Myrtle essential oil speeds up skin regeneration by stimulating the fibroblast cells and boosting production of elastin, collagen and the SIRT1 protein.

Together this powerful duo will leave skin nourished and ready for the day ahead. n

WWW.LOCCITANE.CO.UK

To be in with a chance of winning a L’Occitane Immortelle Reset Serum (worth £49) and a L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Creme (worth £79), simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Which Essential Oil can be found in both the Overnight Reset Serum and Divine Cream?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: L’Occitane WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 19th September 2018. n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Answer: Name: Address: Tel: Email:

If you wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from L’Occitane please tick this box

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Competition AUREUS SPA, BROMSGROVE

Win a pamper day for two or an Annual Spa Membership at Aureus Spa, Bromsgrove In the heart of Bromsgrove lies the gateway to a world of relaxation, where the sole focus is on you, your comfort and your wellbeing. The brand-new Aureus Spa offers a range of luxurious facilities and treatments, all with the aim of helping you relax and rejuvenate. If you’re looking for a slice of serenity, our soothing sauna and steam room, peaceful Aroma Room, Jacuzzi and Monsoon showers create the perfect setting to relax away a leisurely day. Our three tranquil treatment rooms have also been designed with your happiness in mind, and our expert therapists provide a host of

revitalising treatments to add luminosity to your life. These range from radianceboosting Caudalie facials, indulgent body scrubs and deep tissue massages, to Jessica manicures, Geleration nails, waxing, tinting and eyebrow shaping. So, whether you have a spare 30 minutes, or a leisurely three hours, there are lots of ways to treat yourself at Aureus Spa. What’s more, Aureus Spa is offering two lucky Worcestershire Now readers the chance to win a pamper day for two or an annual spa membership.

The pamper day for two includes a 25-minute facial; back, neck and shoulder

To be in with a chance of winning simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

What products do Aureus Spa use for their facials?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Aureus Spa WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Winners will be contacted by phone and/or email within 14 days of the competition closing date.

massage; full use of the spa facilities, gym and swimming pool for the day and afternoon tea!

The

annual

spa

membership

provides

free access to all the Aureus Spa facilities including Sauna, Steam and Aroma rooms, Jacuzzi, Drench and Monsoon showers as well as offering 20% off any spa treatment for the period of the membership.

To find out more about the Spa or to book, go to: www.everyoneactive.com/centre/aureusspa-bromsgrove/ or call 01527 916 434.

Aureus

Spa

Bromsgrove,

Bromsgrove

Leisure Centre, B60 1AY. n

Answer: Name: Tel: Email

Prize Draw Terms and Conditions: 1. Prize draw open to over 16’s only. 2. Offer closes for entries at midnight on 18/09/18. 3. Pamper Day prize entitles the winner and a friend or family member to the following: a 25-minute facial, a 25-minute back, neck and shoulder massage, full use of the spa facilities, gym and swimming pool for one day, afternoon tea. 4. Annual membership prize entitles the winner to a 12-month Spa membership for one person. This includes free access to the full spa facilities at all times when the facility is open including Sauna, Steam and Aroma rooms, Jacuzzi, Drench shower, Monsoon shower, relaxation area as well as 20% off any spa treatments 5. If the winner of the Annual Spa Membership is already a member, their prize will start when their current membership ends. 6. Please note that all treatments must be booked as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. 7. No cash alternative offered. 8. All complete, correct entries will be entered into the prize draw. No responsibility can be taken for entries where telephone and/or email details have been provided incorrectly. Late or illegible entries will not be accepted 9. The winners will be selected at random within 7 days of the closing date. Winners will be notified within 14 days of the closing date of the promotion by telephone and email. If a winner does not claim a prize within 30 days of being notified, then another winner will be drawn. 10. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with something equal or greater value in the event n 30 | Worcestershire Now |ofIssue 181 | September 2018of unavailability due to circumstances beyond the Promoter’s control. PROMOTER: SLM (Everyone Active), 2 WATLING DRIVE, SKETCHLEY MEADOWS, HINCKLEY, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE10 3EY

Yes, I would like to receive information about exclusive offers, promotions, new products AND/ OR services and the latest information from Aureus Spa, Everyone Active Bromsgrove via n Text Message (and other electronic means) n Telephone n Email

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

WEDDINGS

Wedding Wines With everything else that has to be organised and bought for a wedding, wine is probably not at the top of the list. But a little forethought and early planning and purchasing can make life easier at the point when the bride and groom will be at their busiest.

There

are

three

main

a minefield. There is an awful lot of sherberty

considerations when choosing

nonsense on the market masquerading as

your wines – quality, quantity

wine. Make sure you use a wine supplier you

and budget. Not necessarily in that order.

Starting with the aperitif, sparkling wine is considered the norm and these days most likely to be Prosecco – a safe choice because of its extra dry style (which, confusingly, means it is sweeter than Brut Champagne) and because Prosecco is generally low in alcohol, around 11%, it makes it suitable for daytime drinking. The problem with Prosecco is that finding a decent one can be

trust or taste the venue’s offering before making your choice. Or go for Champagne.

Supermarket own brands are, on the whole, reliably good and, if you prefer something a little fruitier, you could make it slightly sweeter and colourful by adding cassis.

Warning: it also increases the alcohol so there’s the prospect of loosening the tongues of potential hecklers during the speeches CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

Romantic | Unique | Inspiring

Kidderminster Town Hall & Bewdley Museum

Venues rich in heritage, offering a range of indoor and outdoor settings in the heart of Wyre Forest.

To arrange informal viewings, please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on

01562 732128 Joanne.bowkett@wyreforestdc.gov.uk www.wyreforestheritageweddings.co.uk

n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

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

WEDDINGS

if these are precisely what you love. Select instead an all-round crowd-pleaser which still delivers on flavour and marries nicely with the food. A Bordeaux Blanc can tick those boxes and doesn’t have to be heavy on the pocket either – aromatic, fruity and fresh, I actually often refer to these as wedding wines for the very fact that they suit most palates. Personally, I would avoid Pinot Grigio because too often they taste of very little, and in fact can sometimes taste horribly chemically.

Reds are more varied but actually probably easier to choose. Riojas are generally a popular choice for good reason. They fit within a budget, they tend to be smooth with character and without being too heavy.

Go for a least a crianza, which means it has had a little ageing and extra complxity.

Argentinian Malbecs are also a good bet but these can be quite powerful so taste a few first – in the daytime without food with your or John Travolta imitators dominating the dance-floor. Orange juice or peach juice sweetens and refreshes more safely.

first on your budget, then on matching it

When choosing the white and red wines, and I think you do need to offer both, decide

don’t want a white with searing acidity or

n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

with the food you have chosen and finally, think about how powerful the taste is. You a red with mouth-puckering tannins even

palate at its freshest.

If your venue is supplying the wines, ask to taste a few. Or if you have something in mind CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

WEDDINGS

Home to Lord and Lady Cobham, this 18th century Palladian mansion has been part of the Lyttelton family for 250 years. Hagley Hall is an opulent, beautiful and exclusive wedding venue, set in 350 acres of spectacular landscaped parkland. Perfect for both intimate and larger celebrations, with an on-location church and boasting two dedicated marquee sites. We invite you to discover the unlimited possibilities and meet our wedding co-ordinator, who will guide you every step of the way.

please call 01562 883701 or email reception@hagleygolfclub.co.uk

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

WEDDINGS

which they don’t list ask if they can get it in for you. Wine merchants will be more than helpful and may offer a discount and a sale or return service – ask. Supermarkets may do, too. A booze cruise might be good for budget buying but you may not be able to taste beforehand and if your guests are more abstemious than you bargained for you could be drinking the same wines all year. n

Love Wine Festival is a great chance to taste up to 200 wines, talk to wine experts, attend a masterclass and find those perfect wines.

Put the date in your diary: 10th November at The Burlington Hotel, Birmingham. Tickets available now at www.lovewinefest.co.uk.

Laura Clay Chairman, Association of Wine Educators laura@lovewinefest.co.uk

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

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

FOOD & DRINK

Pear & Cinnamon Tarte Tatin

with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

Ingredients Serves 2

Method

The Tarte • 80g butter – soft • 80g caster sugar • 2 pears • 1 stick of cinnamon • 1 sheet puff pastry • 1 heavy based tin/dish – 14cm approx

1. Butter heavy bottomed pan.

Vanilla Mascarpone Cream • 125g mascarpone cheese • 1 vanilla pod • 40g icing sugar • Zest of one orange

The Tarte 2. Sprinkle sugar over butter.

3. Peel and core pears, cut into quarters. Place on sugar, butter and add cinnamon stick. Lay puff pastry on top, cut to the same size as the pan.

4. Place pan on heat and caramelise butter and sugar until golden.

5. Cook in pre heated oven 180°C/350F/ Gas Mark 4 until puff pastry is golden, approx. 15 mins.

6. Turn out onto a plate - careful of caramel!

7. Serve with vanilla and mascarpone cream.

8. Traditionally this is caramelised on the stove with the lid on but if it’s your first time making Tarte Tatin place the Tarte Tatin dish with pear, butter and sugar onto the heat, then allow to

n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

caramelise without the pastry lid. This way you have full control of the ‘gold’ colour before you put the pastry top on.

Vanilla Mascarpone Cream 1. Mix mascarpone in a bowl with icing sugar.

2. Cut the vanilla pod length ways, scape knife the length of each side of vanilla and add vanilla seeds into mascarpone mixture.

3. Finely zest one orange and mix into mascarpone until combined.

4. Store mixture in fridge and serve with hot tarte tatin. n Eckington Manor Cookery School, Manor Farm, Eckington, Worcestershire, WR10 3BH Telephone: 01386 751600 Email: info@eckingtonmanor.co.uk www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk

The March Hare Inn Carvery and Bar

Monday Carvery £5 Served Lunchtime and Evening Excluding Bank Holidays

Tuesday Fish or Faggots £7

Lightly Beer Battered Cod or Homemade Grandad Fred’s Faggots Served Lunchtime and Evening

2/3 Course Menu

Two Courses for £11 | Three Courses for £13 Available Tuesday - Friday

Fish Friday

Lightly Beer Battered Cod, Crushed Peas & Triple Cooked Chips for £7

Steak Saturday

Buy two Sirloin Steaks and get a free bottle of wine

Sunday Carvery Served 12noon - 8pm

Food served all day Saturday & Sunday

CARVERY AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK A la Carte Menu available Monday - Saturday The March Hare, Broughton Hackett, Worcester WR7 4BE Tel: 01905 381222 | www.marchhareinn.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n

FOOD & DRINK

The Best Cocktails

For Autumn & Halloween • 50ml Jawbox Gin • 20ml Lemon Juice • 15ml Marchino Liqueur • 7.5ml Creme de Violette Fill a shaker with ice and add all ingredients.

Shake and fine strain into a chilled coupette glass. Garnish with a marchino cherry.

Pinkster Gin ’N’ Jam A blood red cocktail oozing with jammy raspberry goodness.

• 50ml Pinkster • 10ml Lemon Juice • Large spoon of Gin Jam Fill shaker with ice and add ingredients.

Serve over crushed ice and garnish with second spoon of jam and raspberries

Bloody Cow Black Cow vodka, tomato juice and sherry makes for a devilishly good twist on a bloody mary. Double shot of Black Cow. Single shot Sweet Sherry. Top up with tomato juice. Good splash Lea Perrins.

Good splash Tobasco. Dash Celery Salt.

Black Pepper. Lemon juice. Served over ice

Glen Moray Lion Heart With figs ripe and ready in early Autumn it’s great time to enjoy this fruit in a seasonal cocktail.

• 50ml Glen Moray Port Cask Finish • 20ml Primitivo Italian wine • 10ml Amarena cherry syrup • 1 dash Prosecco • Fresh fig slices

Malfy con Arancia Sicilian Sour A great Halloween cocktail with plenty of zing.

Mix 4 parts Malfy con Arancia with 1 part fresh lime juice. Add 1 dash of simple syrup, 1 dash of angostura bitters and 2 dashes of orange bitters. Serve over ice in a tumbler and garnish with a strip of (Sicilian) orange n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Jawbox Gin Aviation Created by Greg Buda of The Dead Rabbit Grocery & Grog and Blacktail cocktail bars New York City. A ghoulishly blue cocktail for a grown-up’s Halloween

Pour 50ml Glen Moray Cask Finish over a rocks glass filled with ice. Add 20ml primitive Italian wine, 10ml Amarena cherry syrup. Top with a dash of Prosecco before stirring. Garnish with thin slices of fresh fig.

FOOD & DRINK

Buy British, Buy Best, Buy from your Local Butcheress!

Suppliers of fresh British meat to the catering industry and direct to your door 6 days a week!

Monthly Meat Boxes

Available starting at ÂŁ20 with FREE delivery A wide selection of homemade free range sausages available!

Why not visit us at our shop: 9 Ryefields Road, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, B60 4NA Tel: 01527 435669 or 07496 632 010 Follow us on Facebook @ thebutcheress

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 41 n

GOLDEN YEARS

Ta

A ke

n o i ct

R to

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m e fD

a i t en

it. lop e v n de n go a c a e yon oices c n a and hier ch E n i a PAG r alt b e THE e R h th g OVE UED s of akin . e TIN m s N CO tia nd sea y di rcise a demen b d e use ore ex risk of a c s r tia i tting m g you n e n i Dem ver, ge reduc e o How way t ng a lo

r u Yo

n 42 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

o k Ris

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 43 n

GOLDEN YEARS

While some things that affect your risk of dementia can’t be changed, such as your age or genes, there are many things you can change.

These five things are especially important if you’re in your 40s, 50s or 60s – but they’re relevant to everyone.

1. Get moving One of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia is taking part in regular physical exercise. It’s good for your heart, circulation, weight and mental wellbeing.

Try to do a combination of activities you’ll enjoy as you’re more likely to stick to them, such as aerobic activities that get you moving, brisk walking, riding a bike or pushing a lawnmower. Also try ‘resistance activities’ that work your muscles, such as digging and shovelling in the garden, or lifting weights.

2. Eat well A healthy, balanced diet is likely to reduce your risk of dementia, as well as other conditions including cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, stroke and heart disease.

n 44 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Most of us know we should eat five portions of fruit and vegetables each day but it’s also a good idea to eat fish or other omega-3 rich foods at least twice a week. Also be wary of hidden salt in foods and keep sugary foods as a treat.

equivalent of six pints of 4% lager in a week or 6

3. Quit smoking and cut down on alcohol If you smoke, you’re putting yourself at much higher risk of developing dementia later in life, as well as other conditions such as cancer and stroke. Drinking too much alcohol also increases your risk of developing dementia. Aim to drink no more than 14 units per week. That’s the

mentally seems to build up the brain’s ability

glasses of 175ml wine in a week (13% ABV).

4. Keep your mind active You can also help to reduce your risk of dementia by exercising your mind. Research suggests that regularly challenging yourself to cope with disease.

Find an activity you enjoy, as you’re more likely to keep it up. Try doing puzzles or crosswords, CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 45 n

GOLDEN YEARS learn a new language, play card games, study for a course or write articles or stories.

You might want to do some of these activities with friends or neighbours. Spending time with other people is an important part of keeping your mind active.

5. Look after your health Taking control of your health will help reduce your risk of dementia. If you’re aged 40–74, start by getting your free NHS health check. You’ll be invited to this by your GP. It’s important to see the GP if you’re worried about health problems such as depression, hearing loss, or not getting enough sleep. All of these might increase your risk of dementia.

What can I do to help Alzheimer’s Society?

Alzheimer’s Society is urging everyone to unite against dementia. We rely on thousands of volunteers, who give their time to provide local support.

We are always keen to hear from people who might be able to spare a few hours on a regular basis to help out with a local group or in a local office. You might also consider our Dementia Friends programme which involves volunteer ‘Champions’ giving information sessions about dementia in their local area. There are also dozens of ways in which you can support the cause through fundraising, such as running a marathon, organising a local event or just donating on a regular basis. You can find out more at alzheimers. org.uk/fundraise or call 0330 333 0804.

For support, you can contact the Alzheimer’s Society on our national helpline on 0300 222 11 22 who can point you in the direction of our other local offices. n Virginia Jaques, Alzheimer’s Society Services Manager in Herefordshire

n 46 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

GOLDEN YEARS

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We offer: • 24 hour Nursing Care in a warm and friendly environment • Single and Double Bedrooms • Specialist care for Dementia, Nursing and EMI • Weekly Activities Package, Day trips and Visits to the pub arranged • Large Gardens where you can watch our resident Shetland pony, cat and chickens go about their day.

• Home Cooked meals • Open Visiting hours Don’t take our word for it come and see for yourselves.

No appointment necessary Pavement Scooters | Road Legal Scooters | Powerchairs Wheelchairs | Rise Chairs | Stairlifts | Walking Aids | Bathing Aids

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EDUCATION

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n 48 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

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EDUCATION

Remember when your child was 4 and you were getting ready to send them to the big bad world of primary school? We all spend hours worrying about how they will fit in, what they need to know… will they manage to make it to the toilets, will they be harangued for not being able to get dressed after PE? Yet when they start secondary school, we often think we have big, grown-up children who will take it all in their stride. However, there are still plenty of ways in which parents can help the transition from primary to senior school go smoothly.

Talk about the changes with your child Ask your child what they are looking forward to, what they will miss about their old school and what they are worried about at secondary school. Then you have plenty of time to work out strategies and talk through any issues.

they will be going into. Even if they are a couple of years away from making the move to secondary education it’s worth visiting schools and then revisiting them closer to the time your child will be making the leap.

It will alos prove useful for you as a parent to see the envirnonment your child will learn in.

Give your child some leeway You expect 4-year-olds to be tired when they start at school but they’re not the only ones.

Find some quiet time during the first couple of weeks at the new school as your child may find it tiring adjusting to everything.

Encourage independence Is your child going to have to take a bus to school? If so, and they’re not used to doing this, have a few practice sessions in the year leading up to school. Make the first go on a Sunday or at a quiet time of the day. The

Familiarity can be comforting Make sure you go to school open days with your child so they can get a feel for what n 50 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

school bus can be a scary place, especially when you’re 11 and some of the other students are almost grown-up. Ensure your

child knows to let you, the bus driver and teachers know if any bullying occurs.

Don’t leave things to the first morning of secondary school If your child has to wear a tie, make sure they know how to tie it – don’t leave it until the first morning of secondary school!

Help your child become more responsible Your child will have to organise him or herself far more than in primary school. They may have a two-week timetable, so you can’t rely on the fact that ‘Thursday is games day’.

In the final year of primary, help your child become more responsible for their PE kit, homework and books, so they’re prepared when it comes to secondary school. Get them into the habit of getting their bags ready the night before, especially if they have to leave early to catch a bus, train or get a lift. Have a homework and activity CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

big fish in a small pond to a small fish in a big pond. Confident children can become very shy because they found the first year so hard. Talk to them about how you felt when you started somewhere new – let them know it is normal to be nervous. Encourage them to ask if they can’t find their way round, or don’t know how to do something - don’t suffer in silence. And assure them that although other people may look and sound very confident, they may well be just as nervous as them.

schedule on the wall, which they can use to

Get your child ready to make new friends

help them.

Talk about making new friends and discuss

Use the school’s website Take a good look around the new school’s website and encourage your child to do the same. Try to find out about the unfamiliar – the school layout, how they go about getting

when they last made new friends how they did it. Make sure they have time to see old friends too. Encourage them to make the first move, to smile, to look people in the eye and make their body language open.

a locker, do they have prepaid swipe cards

Talk about new school nerves

for the canteen?

It can be quite a transition from being a

RGS Springfield Saturday 29 September RGS Worcester Saturday 6 October RGS The Grange Saturday 13 October RGS Worcester Sixth Form Saturday 17 November All 9.00am – 12.30pm

n 52 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Prepare yourself as a parent You won’t be walking your child to the school gate anymore, you may not see many of the children or new friends they talk to you about. The whole process is a big change for you too. Teachers are very conscious that the transition from primary school to secondary is a major step. Staff are aware that the prime objectives for parents are that their children are safe, happy and will develop both academically and socially.

This may not happen immediately but if you take every opportunity to familiarise yourself with the new setting such as attending open evenings or induction events, it will help alliviate many of your concerns. n

EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

Do You Have a Passion

For Helping Children?

It’s estimated that Worcester needs 34 play therapists, Redditch 30, Wychavon 37, Malvern Hills 22, Wyre Forest 30 and Bromsgrove 31 - a total of 184. However, there are only 20 PTUK registrants in the whole of the county.

Anyone over the age of 21 who has worked professionally with children and is able to study at post graduate level may train for a new, rewarding career. You will learn how to work therapeutically with children who have a wide range of social, emotional, behaviour and mental health issues including relationship problems, attachment difficulties, anger management, bereavement and loss. ADHD, ASD, lack of self confidence and self esteem, anxiety and depression.

You will be taught to communicate with the children, not just through words, but by using the creative arts media that the children themselves choose such as: sand worlds, drawing and painting, clay, musical instruments, puppets, movement, dressing up, games and therapeutic storytelling. PTUK’s registrants achieve a positive change in between 77% and 84% as observed by parents and referrers.

There is now a window of opportunity to improve children’s mental health.

Nationally, the Government have made commitments to an additional £1.4 billion for children and young people’s mental health over five years; to recruit 1,700 more therapists and supervisors; and train 3,400 staff already working in services to deliver evidence-based treatments by 2020/21.

The main driver of policy changes is the Government’s Green Paper, Transforming children and young people’s mental health provision together with the All Party Parliament Group for a Fit and Healthy Childhood’s report - Mental Health in Childhood. This contained 73 recommendations, many aimed n 54 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

at improving the Green Paper and has been widely circulated in parliamentary circles. Over 2000 primary schools in the UK are already employing registered Play Therapists successfully.

These are being encouraged to continue – but there are another estimated 18,000 that need this service.

Locally, plans to create a separate Council company owned by the Council to run children’s social care services have been approved by the Department for Education. The move follows Ofsted inspectors reporting that while there are signs of improvement at Worcestershire County Council, lingering problems remain within the “inadequate” rated service. The company, which will be called Worcestershire Children First, will then shadow the council’s existing service before taking over the service in October 2019.

This should generate good job opportunities for registered Play Therapists as well as those needed in 176 primary schools in Worcestershire. There’s just time to become qualified.

Career opportunities are very good not only in the UK but working and training overseas. PTUK registered Play Therapists typically earn from £28,000 (part time) to £80,000 (working long hours over 220 days a year.) It’s especially suitable for ex teachers, nurses, social workers, psychologists, counsellors and occupational therapists who have raised a family and are now looking to continue a part time or full time career well into their 70’s if they wish. n Jeff Thomas Registrar Play Therapy UK www.playtherapy.org.uk

EDUCATION

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

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 55 n

EDUCATION

The Education Landscape is Changing

Are You Up-to-date?

As a parent or grandparent of a teenager it can be a little bewildering trying to understand how to advise your child on the next step of their education.

There seem to be more options these days, regular changes in government policies (eg GCSE grades moving from letters to numbers) and more of a ‘selling’ approach across schools, colleges and universities keen to retain or attract the funding that goes with the students.

practically orientated and uses coursework assessment rather than exams to judge your student’s progress. Universities recognise BTECs and accept students with them. There is a huge range of BTECs or Extended Diplomas as they can also be known, including Agritechnology, Hair and Beauty, Motor Vehicle, Arts.

The good thing about these options is that within them, there are different approaches that suit many students better than the ‘one size fits all’ GCSE, A-Level, University route that has dominated for many years. It’s worth finding out about these and how they might suit your particular student better. Here are a few examples to start you off:

Another option is an Apprenticeship where your student is employed by a company while at the same time receiving a college education to give them the skills their employer needs.

These can start at Level 1 and as they complete each level, the student progresses and takes on more responsibility. This approach avoids the debts associated with going to university and, again, suits the more practically orientated student who is keen to get into the world of work.

By law students have to stay in full time education until they are 18 but this doesn’t mean they have to stay at the same school or go into a sixth form, unless that’s what they want to do. If a 16 year old has got through their GCSEs and now wants to explore subjects that aren’t offered in their school, what should they do?

Avoiding Exam Pressure If parents want to avoid putting their children through the enormous pressure of taking exams, what should they do?

Not only do exams not suit many students, but the pressure can lead to mental health issues around this crucial stage of a teenager’s development.

Or if a student and their parents have come to realise that actually they are much more interested in practical subjects (like engineering, construction, outdoor activities) or focussing not on three A-Level subjects but on one subject in more detail, they may be better advised to look at a college setting and a BTEC qualification.

A-Levels and their alternatives Put simply a BTEC is the equivalent of three A-Levels but it is n 56 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Higher Education – not just at University If your student does want to go on to higher education (which they can do from 18+) they can apply to University or they can do a degree in a College setting without leaving home or their support network. The degrees offered in Colleges tend to be accredited by a university so for example the Foundation Degree in Veterinary Nursing at Pershore College is validated in partnership with Coventry University. Or they can choose an HND (Higher National Diploma) in Graphic Design with Photography at Evesham College which does not feature any exams.

And finally, if your teenager is 19+ and has been out of education for a variety of reasons, they can get back on track with an Access course at their local college, building their confidence, refreshing their study skills and preparing them to apply to university or other options in the future. n Peter Allen WCG

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What's On SEPTEMBER Saturday 1st – Sunday 30th WW1 – The People’s Exhibition Henry Sandon Hall, The Royal Porcelain Works, Severn Street, WR1 2NE. 10am-4pm.

Please note that the exhibition will be available for viewing during the opening hours of Henry Sandon Hall which are subject to change.

To celebrate the incredible Fields of Battle – Lands of Peace 14-18 exhibition in Cathedral Plaza this September, Worcestershire World War 100 will be presenting their ‘People’s Exhibition’ at Henry Sandon Hall throughout September. Created by Worcestershire World War 100, a Heritage Lottery funded project managed by Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service, the People’s Exhibition is a collection of stories from documents and images telling the experiences of the war and home fronts from across the county.

Local people have loaned or donated letters, diaries and photos to contribute to the exhibition, which is travelling to various venues in Worcestershire. www.ww1worcestershire.co.uk

Sunday 2nd Mosaic Workshop Three Little Pigs, Birlingham Village Hall, The

Avenue,

Birlingham,

Worcestershire,

WR10

Worcestershire,

3AB.

10am-4pm.

Explore the ancient world of mosaic and make your own beautiful mosaic panel to treasure for years to come. Mosaic is the wonderful art of creating an image or pattern using small pieces of coloured glass, stone or other materials – usually flat and square in shape. Mosaics have a very long history, starting as long ago

as the 3rd millennium BC. This workshop is the perfect introduction to mosaic. No drawing or artistic skills required, just the keenness to enjoy a fascinating day learning a new skill. Your experience and highly talented tutor will guide you through the processes. You will be shown the various methods of making mosaics and will learn the techniques of cutting and shaping vitreous glass and ceramic tesserae, applying them to an A4 sized panel and learning the skill of grouting and cleaning the finished mosaic.

All the materials and equipment required to make your panel will be provided, including a workshop apron for you to wear during the day.

As with all our workshops, there will be a pause for lunch, which is also provided. Join us for this creative day and head home with a work of art – you will be delighted with the results! Places on this workshop are limited to 8. Tickets £85 including lunch and materials.

Tel: 07935 208 403 Email enquiries@threelittlepigs.eu Churchfields Maize Maze Churchfields Farm, WR9 0AH. 10am-4.30pm.

Join us every day this summer for some Maze Fun! Pay to get in and have hours of fun! £5.50 per adult, £5 per child or £18 per family of four (2 adults- 2 kids or 1 adult, 3 kids). Last entry is one hour before closing time!Please call if weather is not good to check opening times.

Thursday 6th – Friday 7th Talon – The Best of Eagles The Swan Theatre, The Moors, WR1 3ED. 7.30pm-10pm. Over the last two decades Talon has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the most successful touring theatre shows in the UK and the Greatest Hits Tour 2018 will once again feature the Eagles’

BEWDLEY FESTIVAL 2018 TEN DAYS OF EXCELLENCE

FRIDAY 12th to SUNDAY 21st OCTOBER

EVENING ACTS

ROLAND GIFT BAND • JAMES ACASTER • JEREMY VINE ALAN JOHNSON • SIMON ARMITAGE • Prof. ALICE ROBERTS CLARE TEAL TRIO • EDDI READER BAND • COMEDY SHOWCASE

DAYTIME ACTS

MAX KEEN • OPERA IN THE AFTERNOON BARRY VENNING • BRETT WESTWOOD • CHRIS BAINES IAN McMILLAN • DAVID PARKER • TIM BENTINCK Prof. MAGGIE ANDREWS • LESLEY SMITH

MUSIC • COMEDY • INSIGHTS ACROSS FOUR VENUES MORNING AFTERNOON & EVENING

DETAILS AND TICKETS: www.bewdleyfestival.org.uk n 58 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH timeless back catalogue, including Hotel California, Take It Easy, One Of These Nights, Take It To The Limit, Desperado, Lyin’ Eyes, Life In The Fast Lane and many more. This world class seven-piece band is a phenomenon and has truly transcended the tag of ‘tribute’. They have become a brand name in their own right and are not only revered by their peers and respected by the music industry, but dearly loved by their massive and expanding fan base that together have become a family.

Tickets £22.50

Saturday 8th Firework Championships Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, HR8 1RL. 4pm11pm. Witness four amazing displays by leading UK firework companies all perfectly set to music at the fantastic stately home Eastnor Castle. What is regarded as the UK’s leading firework competition you get the power to choose the winner by voting with your mobile phone that very evening. Bring a picnic or buy food and drink on site. You’ll also see an amazing laser display and music will be played during the evening. Tickets – adults £19, children £9 www.fireworkchampions.co.uk

Sunday 9th Churchill Forge Water Mill Open Day Churchill Forge. 2pm-5pm. The Forge is one of the last few surviving waterwheel powered forges in the country. The Forge is known to have been on the site since at least the late 1700s, producing iron hand tools for 200 years. It continued in production until 1969 when it finally closed, having changed very little since the early 1900s. There are 2 working

>>

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Sunday 14th October, 2pm & 5pm Artrix Arts Centre, Bromsgrove Box Office: 01527 577330 www.artrix.co.uk

Saturday 8th December, 5pm Evesham Arts Centre, Evesham Box Office: 01386 446944 www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 59 n

What's On waterwheels, both 17 feet in diameter, which

democracy. King John and Magna Carta in

Yvonne Parsons and everybody’s favourite

will be in operation on the open day. And

1215... the first real major attempt to wrest

Keith Hearnshaw playing the organ. Join

new for 2018, it is hoped to run the Forge’s

power from the monarch (by the Barons)

us to give our retiring MD Nicolas Wright a

press for the first time in 30 years. The Forge

and in so doing recognise the need for

wonderful send off.

is located in the village of Churchill, between

everyone to be accountable under the law.

www.worcestermalevoicechoir.org.uk

Stourbridge and Kidderminster.

Tel: 01905 611427

www.churchillforge.org.uk

Saturday 22nd

Friday 14th – Sunday 16th

Annual Concert 2018

Worcester Music Festival

College Hall, 8 college yard, Worcester,

Various locations throughout Worcester.

Worcestershire, WR1 2LA. 7pm-10pm. This

Taking place in 20 venues across Worcester

is our premier performance of 2018, in the

city centre, the festival will host more than

spectacular surroundings of College hall. We

250 live music performances over three days. The festival is free to attend, and giggoers will be asked to donate to local charity,

have a packed programme of songs, that will allow us to demonstrate the full range of our sound. Such as the rugby anthem ‘world

Worcestershire Association of Carers.

in union.’ The popular Frank Ifield song, ‘I

Saturday 18th

believe.’ The soulful ballad ‘Autumn Leaves,’

Tuesday 25th ‘Gardens of the UK’ Talk with Christine Walkden Orleton Village Hall. 7.30pm (7pm arrival).

Celebrity

gardener

Christine

Walkden

will be the speaker at Orleton and District Gardening Club in September with a talk entitled ‘Gardens of the UK’.

Christine

is best known as the resident gardening guru on the BBC’s The One Show and for presenting the series Glorious Gardens

and the syncopated ‘Cole Porter Medley.’ We

from Above and Christine’s Garden, as

The Howard Robinson History Talks:

will be joined by our new friends the Mendip

well as appearances on Gardeners’ World.

King John & Magna Carta

Male Voice Choir, who will entertain you with

Tickets are on sale until 31st August from

Henry Sandon Hall, The Royal Porcelain

their own unique sound and they will join us

Orleton Village Stores priced at £12 each

Works, Severn Street, WR1 2NE. 7.30pm-

to produce an even greater sound. Fitting

for non-members or contact the club at

10pm. A talk exploring our country’s path to

neatly in between we have the talented cellist

orletongc@hotmail.co.uk

RAGLEY HALL FRIDAY 7TH - SUNDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2018

n 60 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Prams • Buggies • Cots • Furniture • Car Seats • High Chairs • Bedding • Nursery Accessories • Mattresses • Soft Toys • Clothes • and much more •

£25 off when you spend £250 Terms & Conditions apply

Call us on 01386 750888

Open every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10-4, Saturday 10-5 Orchard Cottage Farm, Croome Road, Defford, Worcestershire WR8 9AS

Please visit our website

www.pramandnursery.co.uk

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KEEPING ACTIVE Start / Finish: Walk starts/ends at Alvechurch Railway Station.

Public Transport: Alvechurch has its own railway station and is also served by buses. Please check ‘Traveline’ and current timetables.

Parking: Try arriving by train! There is street-parking around Alvechurch. Please do not use Station Car Park - for rail travellers.

O/S Map: Explorer Map 220 Distance: The main walk is 8 miles. Shorter option of 4 miles is to do a ‘There and Back’ walk along the canal as far as Lower Bittell Reservoir. Worth crossing the ‘dam’ to see the old ‘Lock Cottage’.

Time: Allow all day to do this pretty country and canal walk. (Note: If you keep this walk to use later, be aware that the causeway just beyond Point 7 may flood or be very muddy after prolonged periods of rain or in winter months.)

Alvechurch

Bittell Reservoirs

Refreshments: You could take a picnic or call in at one of the canalside pubs along the route. Stock up on food and water while you are in Alvechurch.

Terrain: This walk is undulating in the country and almost level along the canal.

Alvechurch Village and the first few miles along the canal are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. There are gates, kissing-gates, steps, stiles and some lanes to negotiate. You will need comfortable walking shoes and poles are useful to cope with brambles, thistles and nettles in summer and Autumn.

History: The canal is 203 years old and the history is well documented on line.

There are a number of brick bridges, locks, lock cottages, aqueducts and the Wast Hills Tunnel making this a fascinating walk. The tunnel was constructed in 1796 and is 2726 yards long. Narrow boats can cross inside the tunnel but there is no towpath in the tunnel itself. The main walk circumnavigates the Upper and Lower Bittell Reservoirs. (Note: the ‘Upper’ reservoir is currently drained for essential maintenance work to the dams – September 2018 but this does not affect the route of the walk at time of going to press.) The reservoirs were built to supply water for the canal. St. Michael and All Angels Church at Cofton Hackett is mainly 14th and 15th century but has Norman origins and is worth a detour.

1. The walk starts/ends at Alvechurch Railway Station. Turn left along Station Road, cross railway and continue to canal bridge taking path on left down to tow-path.

2. Turn right beneath bridge 60 to walk in a northerly direction. Shortly you will walk through Alvechurch ‘Withybeds’ Moorings, named after ‘pollarded’ willows in the water-meadows. ‘Crown Inn’ is across Bridge 61. Walk quietly through Alvechurch Visitor Moorings. Notice new marina on left. Continue beneath railway bridge 62. There is no longer a ‘stock-bridge 63’. Bridge 64 carries road round to Coopers Hill. Shortly canal turns sharply left - casualty of M42 alignment. The resultant ‘arm’ has become ‘Crown Meadow Nature Reserve’.

3. Bridge 64B was erected in mid-1980’s to carry M42 over canal.

Shortly you will cross an aqueduct over Old Birmingham Road.

4. Red brick bridge 65 is an attractive canal bridge that carries B4120 from Redditch to Barnt Green. Canal now veers right and crosses long ‘dam’ of Lower Bittell reservoir, built 1837 to top up canal. The Upper Bittell reservoir was built to support it and prevent drought conditions in neighbourhood. The reservoirs are used for sailing and fishing. At far end of dam is an attractive ‘canal cottage’ with an adjacent sluice-gate from lower reservoir into canal. (Note: short walk turns back here and retraces route along canal to Alvechurch).

5. The main walk continues beneath bridge 66 (A441), notice slots for wooden boards used to dam the canal for sluice-gate repairs.

Continue through a straight, wooded cutting, past ‘Hopwood House’ PH and Visitor Moorings. Shortly pass a ‘winding-hole’, where boats could be turned. Bridge 68 is near ‘Newhouse Farm’.

6. Walk beneath high bridge 69. Follow towpath up slope beside ‘Wast Hills Tunnel’ entrance, turning right down lane then right again over bridge 69. Walk along Lea End Road to Westmead Hotel at A441 junction.

7. Turn right then left along track signed ‘St. Michael’s Church’. Go through kissing-gate into field and cross to stile in top right corner. Walk along bank through narrow woodland strip to North Worcestershire Path (LDP). Keep straight on along causeway with Upper Bittell n 62 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018

Reservoir (currently drained) on left. Path very uneven and is muddy after prolonged rain. (If impassable, retrace steps to return along canal.) At end of causeway, cross planked footbridge and go through small metal gate into field. Turn left and walk along left side of field to another small gate. Walk through woodland to open field then up wellmarked path towards barn, veering left to corner turning right down two steps and through two small metal gates into track. Turn left to junction then left along bridleway leading to Barnt Green Sailing Club.

8. Pass fishing pools, bearing right at end pool then left alongside River Arrow to barrier at Bittell Farm Road. Turn right.

9. Turn left along busy B4120 for 1/3 mile. No pavement for last 100 yards.

10. Re-join canal via steps on right or ramp on left and enjoy two miles back along towpath to Alvechurch Station where walk ends. n Written and illustrated by Glynis Dray

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n 64 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 181 | September 2018