Worcestershire NOW - SEPTEMBER 2021

Worcestershire

Now

, It s Time to Make it Yours See page 18 for more information STEPPING ONTO STYLE WEDDING WINES FORGE YOUR FUTURE SEPTEMBER 2021 | ISSUE 210 t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n

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

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

Worcestershire

08

Now

16

14 SEPTEMBER 2021 HOME & GARDEN 08

Stepping onto Style

14

Ten Pollution-Tolerant Plants

16

Nature Notebook

WEDDINGS 18

Wedding Wines

20

Your Wedding, Your Way

18

GOLDEN YEARS 22

World Alzheimer’s Day

24

Walking and Cycling ‘Not Safe or Attractive Enough’ For Many

26

Thinking of Your Independence

24

EDUCATION 28

What is Next for GCSE & A Levels in 2022?

30

Hanley Castle Sixth Form

32

Forge Your Future

34

LIVING HISTORY 34

The Changing Landscape of Worcestershire

WHAT’S ON 36

What’s On

38

Puzzles - Sudoku and Wordsearch

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

NOW 01905 723011

nowmagazines.co.uk PW Media & Publishing Ltd

28

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

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

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

CONTRIBUTORS

DESIGN

Discover History

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

Hanley Castle Sixth Form

Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter

Harper Adams University NHS UK Sixways Stadium TPG DisableAids Ltd Worcester Festival

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

THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA WORCESTERSHIRE IN PHOTOGRAPHS BY STEVEN HAMILTON The county of Worcestershire in

the

West

Midlands

is

characterised by its beautiful cathedral city of Worcester, attractive market towns and villages and its industrial heritage, particularly in the north-east of the county. The Malvern Hills, Clent Hills and the Cotswolds stand out from the rural and man-made landscape, including the traditional orchards in the Vale of Evesham, particularly around Pershore, and the county is also shaped by the River Severn and River Avon.

Photographer Steven Hamilton has captured Worcestershire’s essence in this collection of stunning images, displaying the county at its best. For those who are proud to live in the county, as well as those visiting, this book is a must. Look through these photographs and you will quickly see why this corner of England has such enduring appeal. n Paperback available for £17.99 from www.amberley-books.com Facebook: amberleybooks Twitter: @amberleybooks

Covid-19 Memorial opens at The Vale Crematorium A Covid-19 Memorial at The Vale Crematorium in Pershore is now available for the public to visit. The memorial was officially unveiled at a launch event on Friday 23rd July at the Worcestershire site, which is run by Westerleigh group, the UK’s largest independent owner and operator of crematoria and cemeteries, with 35 facilities across England, Scotland and Wales.

Just over a year ago, Westerleigh Group announced plans to create permanent dedicated memorials within its landscaped Gardens of Remembrance at most of its sites for people to visit and commemorate loved ones who died during the pandemic.

The memorials also provide focal points for people to remember, reflect on and pay tribute to NHS key workers and whole communities who pulled together during the crisis.

At the heart of each tranquil memorial is an all-polished black granite obelisk surrounded by wild flower planting incorporating all n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

the colours of the rainbow, which became a common symbol of hope during the pandemic.

Westerleigh Group invited people of all ages and backgrounds to create a design for the stones, and six winners were chosen, one for each of Westerleigh Group’s regions.

The obelisk at the memorial in Worcestershire features a design which was created by retired nurse Angela Moran-Sharpness. Her design depicts a pair of forget-me-nots with foliage.

The design has been etched onto the memorial stones at Westerleigh Group’s Aylesbury Vale, North Wiltshire, Test Valley, Wessex Vale, West Wiltshire and West Berkshire crematoria as well as The Vale Crematorium.

Roger Mclaughlan, Chief Executive Officer of Westerleigh Group, said: “I’m proud that our Covid-19 memorial is now open for people to visit... So many communities have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Sadly,

many families have lost loved ones, and our thoughts and sincere condolences go to them, first and foremost.

“We felt we needed to do something not only to remember those who passed away but also to honour others who did so many positive and selfless acts to support people and bring their communities closer together.

“These lasting memorials will provide a tranquil place for people to remember and reflect; where they can seek some comfort knowing that the legacy of those lost is not only being recognised but will be remembered for many generations to come.” n Members to

come

memorial

of

the and

at The

public visit Vale

are the

welcome Covid-19

Crematorium.

Please visit www.thevalecrematorium.co.uk for opening times.

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

HERE & NOW

Village Panto of 35 years faces closure Norton Theatre Group, which has been entertaining Worcestershire families with action packed tales of Good versus Bad, heroic heroes, villainous villains, hilariously bad jokes, custard pies, dancing cows and a madcap mix of myth, mirth and magic every year since 1986 is facing a grim future.

The restrictions of COVID last Christmas has unfortunately seen the retirement of several key production personnel. And with the remaining stage management team boasting an average age of nearly 79, it’s not looking good.

Director, Sarah Bennion, who has performed in almost every Panto since she was 6, said, “We’ve reached a critical point. We have some fantastic cast who are keen to get back onto the stage and entertain, but actors are just one ingredient in the great panto pudding. We need help backstage, with

stage construction, scenery, props, lighting,

that we are planting the seeds for a giant of a

sound, promotion and front of house. Norton

panto for January 2022.

Panto has performed every single year bar the Millennium and last Christmas when COVID restrictions meant it wasn’t safe. It would be a real shame to have to stop now after 35 years, just because we don’t have sufficient crew to put the Panto together.”

production of Jack and the Beanstalk – either on stage, backstage, helping with stage management, construction, scenery, lighting or wardrobe – then please get in touch via the website www.NortonTheatreGroup.co.uk.

“It takes the combined efforts of about 40 people – including whole families sometimes

We will be holding an Open Information

– to make every Panto happen. Getting

Evening with Wine & Cheese on Wednesday

involved is hugely beneficial for young and

8th September at 7pm at Norton Parish Hall,

old alike as it really helps bind a community

Wadborough Road, Littleworth WR5 2QB

together. Particularly in these tough times.”

Past members have even gone on to become professional actors. Roger Parrott went on to play Neville Chamberlain in the King’s Speech.

We can now spill the beans and announce

The WUC and the Mayor The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Stephen Hodgson, tried his hand at playing a ukulele when he joined a group of ukers as they entertained shoppers in the city centre while taking part in the Worcester Festival.

Some 25 members from Worcester Ukulele Club played in the High Street and collected money for their chosen charity – Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK).

Councillor Hodgson and his wife, the Mayoress, Councillor Lucy Hodgson, who was herself Mayor of Worcester in 2008/9 joined in the fun outside the Guildhall, and the Mayor enjoyed strumming a ukulele.

Club chairman, Allan Corder congratulated everyone who played in the High Street and said: “Well done all who sang and played. We raised a total of £377.64 from the audience who seemed to be well entertained. There was dancing and singing. We alternated with the excellent Sauce City Jazz Band who kindly continued our collection during their set, so many thanks to them as well.”

Chris Jaeger MBE, director of Worcester Festival said a “big thank you” to the ukulele players for their two performances; adding that it was enjoyed by a lot of people and there was “great feedback. He then booked the club for the first Saturday of the Worcester Festival, August 13, 2022. to perform again.

Worcester Ukulele Club has now given more than £9,300 to Alzheimer’s Research UK since the club started raising money for ARUK just before the first lockdown.

The 19th Worcester Festival lasts a fun-filled, jam-packed 17 days.

There are more than 700 events taking place in this year’s Festival from Saturday, August 14, to Bank Holiday Monday, August 30, with a large percentage of them free. Despite the pandemic the festival organisers have pulled together an eclectic range of events for everyone to take part in, including competitions, dance classes, live music, historic walks, climbing walls, sculpture trails, tabletop sales, spooky ghost walks and so much more. n For more details, go to www.worcesterfestival.co.uk n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

If you would like to get involved in this year’s

Everyone is welcome - anyone interested in taking part or helping out, please come along. n For

further

Sara

Wakefield

details, on

please

07785

contact

374407

or

sara@stretchmarketing.com.

Ebay offers up a designer find for The Museum of Carpet The Museum of Carpet is thrilled to have had donated, by trustee Heather Freeman, this length of Lucienne Day’s Tesserae carpet. It was originally found to be for sale in a second hand shop, and then subsequently on ebay. Now it has been acquired and will be exhibited by the museum to preserve the legacy of Lucienne Day, one of the country’s most innovative designers. Created for Kidderminster company, Tomkinson’s, it won a Design Centre Award and effectively launched Lucienne’s work in this new medium.

Lucienne Day’s original artwork for Tesserae (the name references tiles) is held by the Museum of Carpet, and was exhibited in 2017 alongside the exhibition Lucienne Day: Living Design.

“We are truly grateful to everyone who has made it possible for the Museum of Carpet to receive this piece of Tesserae carpet. It is quite something to learn that what was originally found in a second hand shop and then put on ebay, is now in the safe hands of the Museum of Carpet, enabling all to enjoy this innovative design by Lucienne Day” said Sue Hetherington, Museum Manager. n

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HOME & GARDEN

o t n o g

e l y t S

t. rpe a c t rfec and e p he tyle ith t onto s w ome pping E h r PAG ou re ste THE y R E m ’ OV UED sfor re you n TIN a N r t CO su can make .. . u n o y to tum how best his au t a t w look s of ho gance a e e n k el e ta e optio w , th l th mon you al s i Th iving G

n i p p e

St

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n 8 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN Advanced weaving techniques for rugs and carpets have been around for centuries.

The oldest found example is that of the Paztryk Rug that was excavated from the Altai Mountains in Siberia in 1948. Thought to be from the 5th Century BC and with it’s sophisticated design, it suggests that the practice of carpet weaving goes back even further in history.

The process has come a long way throughout the years, with different styles and techniques filtering all around the world; with different cultures developing their own sense of identity and unique patterns. Whether its woven, tufted, saxony or knotted, brightly coloured patterns or a simple design, there’s a perfect carpet out there for you.

The perfect carpet for you In colder climates, carpets are the perfect insulator, but they also trap dust, pollen, particles, reduce sound and even clean the air. They can add style and personality to your home. And if you’re a little indecisive and don’t want a permanent fixture to your home, you can always add a rug over a wooden floor and change it time after time. Combine with bright colours and create a space for your home thats exciting, fresh and fun.

When deciding on what type of carpet you want for your home, there are a few choices to bear in mind to help you plan for a strong, durable, safe and eco-friendly carpet. Acrylic carpets are more likely to catch fire than a natural fibre such as wool and modern carpets are designed to resist ignition. Whilst wool is considered the ideal fire resistant material, it is also worth remembering that the more dense the material, the harder it is for fires to live on their surface. It is also best to avoid carpets or rugs in any part of the home where there could be naked flames.

Choosing the style Woven: Woven carpets are more expensive as they use the traditional method going back hundreds of years. High quality and coming in a rich variety of colours, the two main producers of this type of carpet in the UK are Axminster carpets and Wilton carpets. Both of which are masters of their trade.

Loop Pile: These carpets are durable and good value for money. The yarn is twisted then cut to produce an even pile.

Hand knotted: Hand-knotted refers to the are intricate pieces of art that are hand woven on special looms. They have a flatter pile with less texture. The most popular types of this kind of

weaving are the Oriental or Perisian varieties.

These will usually be one off pieces and more expensive but will last for years and years.

Hand tufted: Hand-tufted is a quicker process and requires less skill than hand knotted. It is made by punching strands of wool into a canvas, stretched onto a frame with a tool.

Twist: This type of carpet is made by tightly twisting the yarn during the manufacturing process. It creates a shorter, more dense pile that is easy to keep clean and tidy.

Saxony: A more dense carpet making a more soft and cosier feel to the touch. Perfect for bedrooms, not quite as good for high footfall places like the hallway.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN If you don’t fancy something as permanent as a carpet, opt instead for a statement rug.

The Royal Classic Red Carpet (£145.50) from www.runrug.com is hand-tufted in India using 100% wool. The Royal is a classic embossed Aubusson design. Available in timeless colours, The Royal is guaranteed to make an impact in the home. The quality wool gives this carpet the most luxurious pile available.

as deep blues or greens can give an elegant yet minimalist feel to your home.

Sisal Sisal is durable and comes in a natural white colour. Non toxic , biodegradable and tough Sisal is native to southern Mexico but widely cultivated and naturalized in many other countries. Sisal & Seagrass, specialise in using only natural material floors in their collection, from sisal, coir, jute, pure wool and seagrass.

All are sustainable and natural products that can be used within the home. They recently introduced a bespoke Rug Creator tool so that home owners and interior designers can create a rug that fits in with their home or project. Their Pure Wool collection is created from 100% British wool yarn and patterns are created using various breeds meaning there are no harmful dying processes.

Choosing the fibre of your carpet With an every increasing interest in the environment and all the ways we can be eco friendly in our homes, we can choose a carpet by assessing how good they are for the planet. However expensive it may be to have a natural material in your home, they are some of the most durable. Eco-friendly carpet choices include those made of; Wool Wool is a durable material with many benefits.

Not only is it a natural insulator, it is renewable and flame retardant. The sustainable fibre is also highly resilient and recovers quickly from furniture compression. Wool is energy efficient and the most forgiving and easiest fiber to clean. It brings strength, resistance, and warmth whilst still being easy to maintain, with the benefit of being hypo-allergenic.

Kersaint Cobb is a natural flooring specialist

n 12 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

Odyessy, Twilight www.kersaintcobb.co.uk

that produces traditional and modern designs that will bring character and richness into your home. Its carpet range reflects the variety and beauty of the natural world in which we live.

The Luna in seashell from Kersaint Cobb is made from 70% wool and 30% goat hair and is a simple design. Paired with rich colours such

Jute Jute is a natural fibre that can be spun into coarse, strong threads. It has been used for thousands of years to make textiles and is renewable, biodegradable, and carbondioxide neutral. It is soft and durable and has a natural tan colour that adheres to most colour schemes and palettes. n

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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.

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 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 well-drained 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-

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

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 well-drained 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 well-drained 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 well-drained, 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

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

NATURE NOTEBOOK

s d n ie r F y t e v l e V r u O Instead of frowning at the mole-created mounds on your otherwise perfect lawn, find out more about the wonders of this amazing creature...

For fans of television’s build-your-ownhome shows, moles are just another grand designer. When they move into a new territory, they create their own home and it comes complete with corridors (tunnels), bedrooms (chambers) and even kitchens (well, a larder at least).

It’s this construction of a new abode that brings these furry creatures into conflict with humans.

We’re a tidy bunch that aren’t keen on seeing mounds of earth appear in our neat gardens. Take a moment to think about it, however, and you’ll realise that the nutrient-rich earth that is being thrown up by an excavating mole is great to add to our flower beds.

Moles only live where there is plenty to eat and plenty of worms means healthy soil! Once a mole has settled into its new home, the mounds will stop appearing (apart from the occasional renovation).

This need to dig means that moles have developed spade-like front feet. If you take a closer look, it appears that they have an extra thumb but the additional digit is actually an enlarged wrist bone that serves to widen their feet, helping them to dig through the earth. Experts estimate that one of these

KEEP UP TO DATE

tiny mammals (they’re 10-15cm in length and weigh

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

just 80-120g) can shift six kilos of soil through its

@WorcsWT t

tunnel system in just 20 minutes.

worcestershirewildlifetrust G worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w

They need to eat more than half their bodyweight

n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

in food every day so moles live where soil is healthy.

Their favourite food is a good juicy worm and, as well as munching these as they patrol their tunnels, they also decapitate them for safe storage at a later date; one larder was found to have 470 decapitated worms stored in it. This may sound unpleasant (and if you’re a worm, it undoubtedly is) but worms can regenerate so if the mole doesn’t make it back in time, some will be able to make their getaway.

In the dry summer of 2020 we had people get in touch to let us know that they’d seen moles above the ground. Although moles do sometimes leave the comfort of their tunnels to gather vegetation for nesting material, seeing them is rather unusual.

Last summer’s lack of rain, however, drove worms deeper underground and whilst many moles will have followed them, some chose to go upwards in the hunt for food. If it’s particularly wet, you might see evidence of moles as they avoid the waterlogged conditions further down by getting closer to the surface and creating long ridges of earth as make their way through the drier soil above.

Sightings of moles aren’t usually recorded but we’d love to know where they are. If you’ve got fresh molehills or you’re lucky enough to see a mole, please let us know by filling in our short form and uploading a photo w w w.worc swildlifetrust.co.uk /wildlife-sightings Thank you. n

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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, 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 considerations when choosing your wines – quality, quantity 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 a minefield. There is an awful lot of sherberty nonsense on the market masquerading as wine. Make sure you use a wine supplier you 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

n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

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 When choosing the white and red wines, and had a little ageing and extra complxity.

I think you do need to offer both, decide first Argentinian Malbecs are also a good bet but on your budget, then on matching it with the these can be quite powerful so taste a few food you have chosen and finally, think about first – in the daytime without food with your how powerful the taste is. You don’t want a palate at its freshest. white with searing acidity or a red with mouthpuckering tannins even if these are precisely If your venue is supplying the wines, ask to what you love. Select instead an all-round taste a few. Or if you have something in mind crowd-pleaser which still delivers on flavour which they don’t list ask if they can get it in and marries nicely with the food. A Bordeaux for you. Wine merchants will be more than Blanc can tick those boxes and doesn’t have helpful and may offer a discount and a sale to be heavy on the pocket either – aromatic, or return service – ask. Supermarkets may fruity and fresh, I actually often refer to these do, too. A booze cruise might be good for as wedding wines for the very fact that they suit budget buying but you may not be able to most palates. Personally, I would avoid Pinot taste beforehand and if your guests are more Grigio because too often they taste of very little, abstemious than you bargained for you could be drinking the same wines all year. n and can sometimes taste horribly chemically. there’s the prospect of loosening the tongues of potential hecklers during the speeches or John Travolta imitators dominating the dancefloor. Orange juice or peach juice sweetens and refreshes more safely.

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WEDDINGS

Your Wedding, Your Way At Sixways we are committed to ensuring you get the day you have always dreamed of, your way.

We understand that this is one of the most important events of your life and you can relax in the knowledge that our experienced team will ensure everything runs according to plan.

Set in the heart of Worcestershire’s countryside, Sixways is a truly unique wedding venue offering attractively priced bespoke wedding packages to guarantee the perfect day.

Our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinators are available to arrange all extras from chair covers and flowers to music and entertainment whilst our talented chefs are on hand to provide wedding menus for every taste and budget, complemented by a fine selection of wines.

Sixways has five suites licensed to hold Civil Ceremonies, with seating for up to 300 guests, so you can hold your ceremony and reception in one location creating a seamless day.

Sixways is conveniently located at Junction 6 off the M5, with several hotels within easy reach of the stadium that we can recommend for you and your guests. n To discuss your wedding in detail or to arrange a tour of the venue, please contact our Wedding Co-ordinators by calling 01905 459351 or email weddings@warriors.co.uk.

n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

WEDDINGS

National Association of Goldsmiths Member

Quarter Jewellery(Worcester) and Malvern Goldsmiths

Getting married? §

We make wedding rings, all carats, all widths, all patterns.

We beat any other jewellers price, even the internet.

Personalise Your Wedding Ring 1. Choose a plain wedding ring (9ct, 18ct or platinum) 2. Keep it plain or have it diamond cut (any pattern) + £25 3. Set some bright white diamonds + £45 each (including setting) 4. Engrave dates or something lovey dovey on the inside + £20 (approx) Congratulations, you have just designed your very own Wedding Ring!

Plain Wedding Rings are £47.50 per gram for 9ct or £95 per gram for 18ct

Free valuations on items you wish to sell

We also value for insurance, sale between parties and probate.

Jewellery repair service available & we will polish your jewellery for £10

BUYING OR SELLING, STILL THE MOST REASONABLE JEWELLERS... ESPECIALLY FOR WEDDING RINGS.

27 The Shambles, Worcester 28/30 Belle Vue Terrace, Malvern

YOUR PERFECT VENUE AWAITS

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TO VIEW TODAY!

T: 01562 887290 E: weddings@hagleyhall.com W: www.hagleyhall.com Hagley Hall, Hagley, Worcestershire DY9 9LG

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 21 n

GOLDEN YEARS

World Alzheimer’s Day Tuesday September 21st

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in the UK. Dementia is the name for a group of symptoms associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning.

It can affect memory, thinking skills and other mental abilities. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not yet fully understood, although a number of things are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition.

These include: • increasing age • a family history of the condition • untreated depression, although depression can also be one of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease • lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition, which means the symptoms develop gradually over many years and eventually become more severe. It affects multiple brain functions. The first sign of Alzheimer’s disease is usually minor memory problems. For example, this could be forgetting about recent conversations or events, and forgetting the names of places and objects. As the condition develops, memory problems become more severe and further symptoms can develop, such as: • confusion, disorientation and getting lost in familiar places • difficulty planning or making decisions • problems with speech and language • problems moving around without assistance or performing self-care tasks • personality changes, such as becoming aggressive, demanding and suspicious of others • hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there) and delusions (believing things that are untrue) • low mood or anxiety Who is affected?

Alzheimer’s disease is most common in people over the age of 65. The risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia increases with age, affecting an estimated 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 and 1 in every 6 people over the age of 80. But around 1 in every 20 people with n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

Alzheimer’s disease are under the age of 65. This is called early- or young-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

• organise further testing, such as brain scans if necessary • create a treatment and care plan

Getting a diagnosis As the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease progress slowly, it can be difficult to recognise that there’s a problem. Many people feel that memory problems are simply a part of getting older. Also, the disease process itself may (but not always) prevent people recognising changes in their memory. But Alzheimer’s disease is not a “normal” part of the ageing process. An accurate and timely diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can give you the best chance to prepare and plan for the future, as well as receive any treatment or support that may help. If you’re worried about your memory or think you may have dementia, it’s a good idea to see a GP. If possible, someone who knows you well should be with you as they can help describe any changes or problems they have noticed. If you’re worried about someone else, encourage them to make an appointment and perhaps suggest that you go along with them. There’s no single test that can be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. And it’s important to remember that memory problems do not necessarily mean you have Alzheimer’s disease. A GP will ask questions about any problems you’re experiencing and may do some tests to rule out other conditions.

How Alzheimer’s disease is treated There’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but medicines are available that can help relieve some of the symptoms.

Various other types of support are also available to help people with Alzheimer’s live as independently as possible, such as making changes to your home environment so it’s easier to move around and remember daily tasks. Psychological treatments such as cognitive stimulation therapy may also be offered to help support your memory, problem solving skills and language ability.

If Alzheimer’s disease is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist service to:

Outlook People with Alzheimer’s disease can live for several years after they start to develop symptoms. But this can vary considerably from person to person. Alzheimer’s disease is a life-limiting illness, although many people diagnosed with the condition will die from another cause. As Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological condition, it can cause problems with swallowing. This can lead to aspiration (food being inhaled into the lungs), which can cause frequent chest infections. It’s also common for people with Alzheimer’s disease to eventually have difficulty eating and have a reduced appetite.

There’s increasing awareness that people with Alzheimer’s disease need palliative care. This includes support for families, as well as the person with Alzheimer’s. n

• assess your symptoms in more detail

www.nhs.uk

GOLDEN YEARS

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

GOLDEN YEARS

Walking and Cycling ‘Not Safe or Attractive Enough’ For Many A new report from the Centre for Ageing Better and Sustrans reveals the key factors motivating people in their 50s and 60s to walk and cycle more as a means of travelling around their communities. local authorities must invest in supportive infrastructure that encourages people to maintain their active lifestyle.

The findings of the second part of this project – original research with people aged 50 to 70 – will be released in September.

Dr Aideen Young, Evidence Manager, Centre for Ageing Better: “Being physically active is one of the best ways to helps to prevent those chronic, long-term health conditions that impede our ability to live a good later life. And yet the proportion of people who are physically active generally decreases with age.

“Active travel is one of the easiest ways to build routine physical activity into daily life, and the pandemic has added a new incentive for many to find alternatives to public transport. But as this research shows, the areas we live in often contain barriers to walking and cycling, and for many people walking and cycling simply isn’t safe or attractive enough currently.

The evidence review reveals the things encouraging people to participate in ‘active travel’ include the prospect of improving physical and mental health, being outdoors, feeling independent and in control, and preparing for an active retirement.

Distances that are too great, bad weather, issues around safety, fear of traffic, a lack of confidence, declining health and/or disability and the lack of an active travel habit across the life course are among the factors that act as barriers to people in this age group walking and cycling.

The research shows that, in order to increase uptake of active travel, local authorities should invest more in walking and cycling infrastructure – maintaining pavements n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

and cycle lanes, improving deteriorating surfaces and designing street networks that make it easier to get to local shops, services and transport links.

“The changes to the Highway Code prioritising people who are walking and cycling are a step in the right direction but we need proper investment in infrastructure in communities if we are to seize this opportunity to make the most of and sustain public interest in active travel.”

These improvements, along with interventions to change people’s behaviour, could increase levels of active travel amongst this age group and have an important and meaningful impact on both the health of individuals and population health, the report says.

Andy Cope, Director of Impact & Insight at Sustrans, said: “The findings of our research are naturally concerning and clearly show that we need to go further as a society to enable people of all ages to be more active when travelling. It’s essential for their health and wellbeing, connects them with neighbours, fosters a sense of community, and of course reduces car traffic.

The government announced on Friday changes to the Highway Code, including a “road user hierarchy” giving pedestrians greater priority over cars at junctions and crossings and cyclists priority when travelling straight ahead at junctions. But in order to capitalise on the increased interest in active travel sparked by the pandemic,

“But we can’t do that when our towns and cities are organised more for cars than for people, and the evidence in this report highlights how the built environment influences older peoples’ attitudes. Local authorities should recognise this and make changes to their areas to make it easier and more enjoyable for people to walk and cycle.” n

GOLDEN YEARS

Delightful Dorset Weymouth, Hotel Prince Regent. Excursions to Swanage, Portland Bill Wednesday - Sunday 27th - 31st October 5 Days H/B £295.00

Turkey & Tinsel Torbay, Babbacombe The Anchorage Hotel. Excursions to Teignmouth, Dawlish & Dartmouth Monday - Friday 8th - 12th November 5 Days H/B £295.00

Turkey & Tinsel Llandudno, The Queen of Welsh Resorts The Bay Tree Hotel. Excursions to Snowdonia, Beaumaris & Llanfair PG Monday - Friday 15th - 19th November 5 Days H/B £275.00

A Welsh Twixmas Caernarfon - The Celtic Royal Hotel Including an excursion to Llandudno Monday - Thursday 27th - 30th December 4 Days H/B £199.00

New Year Eastbourne - The Majestic Hotel Including an excursion to the local area.

Thursday 30th December 2021 - Sunday 2nd January 2022 4 Days H/B £325.00

For more details of these and our other holidays call 01905 770870 for a copy of our brochure, or visit our website mysticisle.co.uk where a copy is available to download.

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

GOLDEN YEARS

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

Meeting friends and family is

all our mobility scooters come with a

of course something we are all

free assessment and training to help you

looking forward to, but until that

understand how to use your scooter within

time comes simply getting outside, enjoying

the law and more importantly safely. We

the better weather and staying independent

can do this in your home, our showroom or

is something that all the team at TPG

the environment which you are likely to use

DisableAids are passionate about helping our

your scooter, be that the local shops or even

community achieve.

your favourite parks we are happy to help you

We have an extensive range of product to

and your loved ones find their independence

help you and your loved one keep moving,

again and be ready to enjoy the times that are

from walking aids such as the Topro Rollator

sure to come.

to 4mph and 8mph mobility scooters.

From all the team stay safe. n

Our team of assessors are working with

Contact TPG DisableAids via

some of the finest suppliers in the country to

enquiries@tpg-disableaids.co.uk

bring you a range of product to support you whether you are walking to the local park, needing to pop to shops on your scooter or moving around your home and garden safely.

We offer full bespoke assessments, completely free and with a guarantee of no obligation to

n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

buy or hard sales technique, our aim is first and foremost to get you the right product for your needs.

As a respected and longstanding member of the British Healthcare Trades Association

or 01432 351666 or via our social media sites.

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

EDUCATION

What is Next for GCSE & A Levels in 2022?

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on schools since 2020, which led to in-person exams being scrapped for two consecutive years. With record breaking exam results being revealed last month, the next cohort of students may already be worrying about what to expect in 2022.

This year saw GCSE, AS level and A-level exams being cancelled and replaced with school-based assessments. While they are not likely to follow a pre-pandemic, traditional format next year, the exam system is returning according to Education Minister Gavin Williamson.

How will school exams work in 2022?

With a proposed return date of summer 2022, exams will recognise and ‘mitigate’ the disruption caused by the pandemic.

The proposal, launched on Monday July 12, by the Government and Ofqual suggests allowing teachers to choose the topics that students will be assessed on for several subjects including GCSE English literature, history and ancient history. This also applies to the choice of content for GCSE geography. Practical activity requirements for science subjects, as well as assessment in art and design subjects, are also due to change. Schools and colleges are also likely n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

to receive information about the focus of the exam content prior to the exam dates for most GCSE, AS and A-Level subjects. There will also potentially be support materials for GCSE mathematics, physics and combined science exams.

When will the 2022 exams be held?

It is understood that summer 2022 exams are set to take place at the same time of year that they usually would. According to the proposal, the risk of delaying the time of year that exams are held would be too high. Fortunately, all factors will be taken into account as the proposal states: ‘In order to ensure that they can do so fairly, we must recognise that students in the 2022 cohort have experienced significant disruption to their education, and we propose that exams and assessments should be adjusted to take this into account.’

The changes have been proposed to both ‘free up’ teaching time and to reduce pressure on students given the disruption to schools since the pandemic began.

When will the exam changes for 2022 be confirmed?

Any changes are expected to be confirmed in September during the autumn 2021 term. The Government’s proposal was launched on Monday July 12 and the consultation window ended on Sunday 1 August. During that time, pupils, parents and teachers, were all asked for their views on the proposed modifications.

It explains: ‘We have set the length of this consultation so that decisions can be announced early in the next academic year, giving students, teachers and exam boards time to plan for exams taking place next summer.’

So, while students may not be overjoyed about the return of exams, the good news is that we can hope there are plenty of measures in place to make the assessments as fair as possible. n

EDUCATION

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

EDUCATION

Hanley Castle Sixth Form Hanley Castle Sixth Form offers an outstanding experience for all students seeking post-16 excellence.

Whether

students

are

targeting Oxford, Cambridge or other top universities, or seeking a more vocational package as a preparation for work or apprenticeships, Hanley

Castle

can

offer

tailor-made

provision to ensure that every Sixth Form student makes the most of their abilities. We offer bespoke pathways for

Veterinary

Science,

Architecture,

Law,

Dentistry and Medicine.

In 2020, more students than ever gained all of their A Level passes at A* and A grade.

27% of all passes were at the top grades, with 55% of passes awarded at A*, A or B grade. We are expecting even better results this year.

students considering a wide range of

We are also proud of our provision for

careers, including Medicine, Veterinary

apprenticeships and preparing students for

Science, Physiotherapy, Law, Criminology,

the workplace through our close association

Journalism and Engineering. Students

with companies such as Worcestershire

following these pathways will work with

Apprenticeships and local employers like

career specialists to create the best

QinetiQ and Speller Metcalfe. Our friendly

personal statements, receive guidance on

and supportive approach ensures that

wider reading and enjoy support with work

students are known personally and fully

experience placements.

supported as individuals by their own tutors

Over the last five years successful Oxbridge applications from Hanley have included:

and the Sixth Form team to ensure they achieve the goals to which they aspire.

Oxford for Mathematics, History, Biological

Hanley Castle is an accredited Artsmark

Sciences,

and

Gold and International School Award holder,

MFL; and Cambridge for Natural Sciences,

offering unmatched enrichment, cultural and

Geography,

Economics

n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

social opportunities, including its legendary school productions and a full programme of competitive sport. Each student is given the opportunity to join a wide variety of committees, similar in design to societies at universities, as well as the chance to apply for whole-school leadership roles and responsibilities.

Our modern Sixth Form centre provides an outstanding study environment for our students which includes computer rooms, study rooms and a common room, all showcasing beautiful artwork created by our very own Sixth Form students. We are proud of the achievements of our students and enjoy creating an inviting environment where students will enjoy working and socialising with like-minded peers. n For a prospectus and further information, please contact Mr Sam Cook, Assistant Headteacher, Post-16 Studies, telephone 01684 59341 or visit our website at www.hanleycastle.worcs.sch.uk/sixth-form/

EDUCATION

ANSWERS You’ve found the answers!

The puzzles are on page 38

*Open Evening - Thursday 30th September / 6:30pm

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

EDUCATION

Forge Your Future As schools and colleges return after the summer break, many minds start to focus on the future – including potential career paths and study options.

With this in mind, Harper Adams University is preparing to host an open day on its stunning Shropshire campus on October 9th, to introduce future students to its courses, staff, facilities, social opportunities and more.

sustainable future – and with the highest

“If you care about what we eat and how we look after our planet and everyone and everything living on it, you’ll find a degree course that matters to you at Harper Adams,” says Outreach Manager Kimberley Chadwick, who leads the University team that connects with school pupils and college students to help them identify where their future might lie.

the environment, the food supply chain,

“Our programmes are firmly focussed on the skills and knowledge needed for a

employs around four million people in the

To find out more about Harper Adams and

UK and yet many food lovers think their only

the open day, visit harper.ac.uk/open

n 32 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

UK graduate employment rate, combined with extensive industry connections, a degree from Harper Adams could be excellent for your career prospects. We offer courses in agricultural sciences, animal health and welfare, business management,

career options are in catering or hospitality.

“But they could become professionals throughout the entire food supply chain –

handling

logistics,

developing

new

products, becoming a food marketing genius – the opportunities are vast of often well rewarded.

mechanical engineering, land and property

“The same can be said across all of our

management and more.

subjects. What matters is to focus on think

“One of our challenges, as a team, is that we are dealing with careers many youngsters might never have heard of. But while that is a challenge for us – it’s an outstanding opportunity for them. Take the food and drink production sector, for example. It

you are passionate about and then speak to people in the know. Go to open days, chat to lecturers and to students, explore career case studies – there are loads online – and see what sparks your interest. You never know where it might lead!” n

EDUCATION

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

LIVING HISTORY

The Changing Landscape of Worcestershire The County of Worcestershire is littered with quaint little hamlets, picturesque Black and White villages and rolling countryside. Fields of swaying corn, apple orchards buzzing with bees and ripening pears waiting to be picked. All nestled between woodland and cool meandering rivers.

Clifton Quarry several years ago, and found evidence for this period. Flint artefacts and also simple pottery, used to store the food they were now harvesting throughout the year, were found.

Today it is hard for us to imagine a landscape where herds of Mammoth, Steppe Bison and Deer moved majestically across a landscape of wild tundra. The sound of Wolves, Willow Ptarmigan and Hyenas also filling the air.

About 20,000 years ago a Great Glacier towered above what is now Wolverhampton and Bridgnorth! Worcestershire was the most northern hunting grounds used by our nomadic ancestors.

In 2017 the Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service, in partnership with Museums Worcestershire was awarded money from the Heritage Lottery Fund to create the ‘Lost Landscape’ project and exhibition.

The most important part of the project was bringing together and conserving the many artefacts collected or found across the County from this early historical period. One piece of conservation work was a badly damaged and fragmented Bison Skull discovered in Bricklehampton in the 1830’s. This was restored

by Nigel Larkin of Natural History Conservation.

The landscape of Worcestershire is a direct result of these Glaciers. The weight of moving Ice scoured the landscape we have today.

As the Glaciers retreated north, fast moving melt water washed tons of gravel, sand and in some cases large boulders from the North of England into our River Valleys. Two large, smooth Boulders can be seen on display at the County Museum at Hartlebury Castle.

These valuable deposits have been extracted over the years for construction work and have helped us understand the environment thousands of years ago. Clifton, Ripple, Kemerton, Beckford and Broadway have all seen gravel and sand extraction over the years. Antiquarians from the 19th Century and Archaeologists from the 1960s to the present day have discovered many wonderful finds from this work. These have included precious Stone Axes, polished by Stone Age people and Mammoth Tusks.

In the period of the Old Stone Age, or the Paleolithic period (600,000 - 10,000BC), hunter gatherers were enticed into what would become Worcestershire by the rich animal life in the area. Animals would provide food, cordage, clothing and much more, in what is often seen as a primitive existence.

Stone Hand Axes, used for Butchering meat and making other tools have been found over the years by Archaeologists and even walkers and workmen! A fine Hand Axe was pulled from a Gravel Pit by a workman in Henwick Road, in Worcester in 1915. Another example n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

was found in Hallow by a walker in the 1970s.

The landscape changed in the Mesolithic period (10,000 - 4,000BC), whereby open tundra became heavily wooded River Valleys.

The Middle Stone Age, as it is often called, was a time when our ancestor’s tools evolved to allow an improved form of living and hunting.

Finds from across the County, include delicate Microliths, sharp slithers of stone flaked from a piece of flint using antler and bone tools.

In the Neolithic and the Early Bronze Age that followed (4,000-1,500BC), our ancestors realised they could alter the landscape for their specific needs. Burning and felling the trees using axes allowed the clearance of woodland and the timber worked to construct hut like houses. Crops, including cereals and beans changed our diet and some animal were domesticated such as Pigs, Sheep and cows.

Archaeologists from the Worcestershire County Council excavated a large area around

Worcestershire may be known as the County where Sir Edward Elgar composed fine pieces of work, such as Land of Hope and Glory.

Some people would say the County is known for its fruit, such as its Pears and Apples. A great many will mention the English Civil Wars fought between King and Parliament in the 1640s and 50s.

However, we need to embrace the evidence that people have lived and worked in our landscape for thousands of years. If you stand on the Malvern Hills or Bredon Hill, just imagine how many people have looked at that same landscape. Worcestershire has seen all the great Chapters in British History and we should celebrate this. n

By Paul Harding Discover History Facebook and YouTube - Discover History Instagram and Twitter -DiscoverHISTPH www.discover-history.co.uk

Discover History is an award winning education and Living History Performance Company based in Worcester. They specialise in the local history of Worcestershire and deliver school workshops and history days, living history performances and talks across Britain.

LIVING HISTORY

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

What's On

What's On SEPTEMBER

laugh for 45 years. She will be performing

village, browse the incredible nursery and

poems from her latest book Up In The Attic,

RHS flower show displays and be amazed

published last year, and newly released in

by the size of the vegetables on display in

Friday 10th - Sunday 12th

paperback, along with classic poems and

the CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables

stories from her long career. This event was

Championship. Advance Tickets, Adults

originally due to take place on 25th October

£18, under 16s go free! To book tickets go

2020/ 21st March 2021. If you have a query

to www.threecounties.co.uk

Bus Fest With a full three days at The Three Counties Showground to keep you amused there will be the most comprehensive entertainment programme for all ages of any VW Event.

You will find we have the largest trade area of any VW event (in the world!) with everything you may want (or not) for your Transporter. plus a massive vehicle sales area. For more information go to www.busfest.org

Saturday 11th Back to the 80’s Tribute Night Originally formed as The Grimleys in 2002.

This 5 piece band went on to perform in front of audiences the length and breadth of the UK in all of the major holiday camps and hotel chains. Following the departure of one of the band members in 2008. It was felt that a change of name was also required and The Party Popperz were born. The event is being held at The Berkeley in Worcester with tickets startinh at £11.25. To book, go to www.skiddle.com

Saturday 18th Malvern Hills Challenge n 2019 over 350 adults and children and more than 70 dogs completed the Malvern Hills Challenge in the fantastic September sunshine, see the event photos here. With the vaccination programme beyond 60% of the population and lock-down now lifted, we

please call the box office on 01684 892277 (Mon-sat, 9.30am-5.30pm).

Wednesday 22nd - Saturday 25th

Abba Tribute Night Abbagirls are in their 21st year having

Worcester Cathedral will be inviting visitors

performed in 40 different countries World

to SPACE, to journey to the edge of the

Wide, and over 4000 shows in just about

universe and back! SPACE is a spectacular

every type of venue and audience. They are

internal sound and light show created

the first abba tribute band to tour South

by award winning artistic collaboration

Korea, one of our shows went out on live

‘Luxmuralis’, Peter Walker Sculptor and

prime time TV! (KBS TV to over 6 million

David Harper Composer. When you visit SPACE you will be on an immersive journey through light and sound that transforms the interior of majestic Worcester Cathedral.

The visual spectacular allows viewers to go on a journey through space and time and gives you the chance to walk amongst the stars. Sound and light art is projected onto the stunning architectural features within the Cathedral and visitors are enveloped with bespoke music as you view and experience a journey to the edge of the Universe and back. You will walk through projection art installations, be immersed in the sound and light, and have chance to explore and contemplate your own personal journeys.

To find out more information and how to book tickets follow Worcester Cathedral on facebook and twitter. Tickets (prices to be confirmed) will be for a timed entry on one of four evenings. The entry slots will

can look forward to Malvern Hills Challenge

be approximately every 10 - 15 minutes

2021 (MHC-21) returning on Saturday 18th

throughout the evening. The expected

September 2021 with minimal restrictions.

length for each entry slot is estimated at 40

We will will make appropriate arrangements

- 60 minutes.

should the situation change, but as things stand, we look forward to you taking part in

Friday 24th - Sunday 26th

MHC-21, our 10th anniversary event. Enter

Malvern Autumn Show

either as an individual or as a team, bring

Malvern Autumn Show returns for a fantastic

your dogs and have a great day out in the

harvest festival brimming with special guests,

Malvern Hills. For more information visit

giant vegetables, stunning floral displays

www.malvernhillschallenge.org

and family entertainment. Extended to 3 days, this year’s show takes place from 24-26

Wednesday 22nd

September at Three Counties Showground,

Pam Ayres – Up In The Attic

Malvern. Enjoy a tipple at the popular Gin

Pam Ayres has been making the nation

Show, explore the new open-air food & drink

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

Saturday 25th

viewers, repeated many times by request).

This will be a floor filling night at Archdales Social Club of all the classic ABBA tunes that we have all missed. Do not leave this to the last minute to book. Tickets are £9.50, to book, go to www.ticketsource.co.uk

Wednesday 29th Arabella Weir: Does My Mum Loom Big In This The mother of all confessional shows from the bestselling author and star of The Fast Show and Two Doors Down. Does My Mum Loom Big In This? at Huntingdon Hall is for everyone who’s had a mother or been a mother, featuring hair-raising hilarious true stories from Arabella’s dysfunctional childhood, her perilous career and her life as a single working mother. Devastatingly funny, excruciatingly honest and definitely embarrassing for all of Arabella’s relatives, not to mention herself, this is a helterskelter tour of appalling – and appallingly funny

–

maternal

behaviour.

Tickets

are £18. For more information, go to www.worcesterlive.co.uk

PLEASE VISIT INDIVIDUAL EVENT WEBSITES FOR LATEST CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS FOR ANY CHANGES

Applefest: More entertainment than the Morris Dancers can shake a stick at!

The first Saturday in October, the annual Tenbury Applefest, is nearly upon us and with all things in our favour we have an Event for your enjoyment.

We’ve got entertainment, we have apples galore and we have animals, classic cars, food, drink and crafts. What more could you ask for on a day out?

You can have an encounter will the animals brought along by Trevor Hill and visit the reptiles from Dudley Zoo. There will also be face painting and the Medieval Magician.

The interest in classic vehicles continues so we shall have a selection of vehicles from owners local to Tenbury.

Entertainment throughout the day will include the Tenbury Teme Valley Band, Pearl Lake Ukelele Group, Leominster Morris Dancers, Blue Moon and the Bromyard Town Crier.

The Apple Marquee will show over 300 varieties of Apples, pears & quinces, provided by local supplier and sponsor, F P Matthews Ltd.

winners being presented with their certificates

Appleteme are with us to press apples into delicious juice to take home and invite you to bring along washed apples (approx. one carrier bag = 1 litre of juice) and clean containers and watch your apples being turned into juice to enjoy after the Event.

We have to limit this to sensible quantities of apples please!

ready for judging by 27th September. Watch

The usual food, drink and craft stands will be available for those who want to shop, dare we say it, ready for Christmas, and there will also be a licensed bar area and a wide selection of food to eat on the day.

We hope that you will enjoy the fabulous window displays by the town’s retailers in the run up to October 2nd. Judging will take place in the week beforehand with the

on Friday 1st October.

Sponsors, Kerry’s, have the pleasure of judging the window displays which will be out for more information on the People’s Choice Window Dressing Competition.

David Patrick, Chair of Tenbury Applefest Association, says “Yet again we are offering a wide variety of activities, entertainment and displays for you to enjoy. We are confident that Applefest 2021 will provide a great day out for all of the family whatever the weather.”

Admission to the fun packed day is just £4.00 with accompanied children under 16, free. Gates open at 10am on Saturday 2nd October. n www.tenburyapplefest.co.uk www.facebook.com/TenburyApplefest

SATURDAY 2nd OCTOBER

10am - 4.30pm on The Burgage, Tenbury Wells

A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT

OVER 250 VARIETIES OF APPLES ON DISPLAY Apple Juicing, Tree Husbandry, Leominster Morris Dancers, Magician, Shopping Village with food & drink, crafts, Licensed bar, Demonstrations. Selection of Classic Cars. Dudley Zoo Outreach Department, Trevor Hill’s Animal Encounters. Tenbury Teme Valley Band, Blue Moon, Pearl Lake Ukelele Group, Bromyard Town Crier.

Admission £4.00 (under 16’s free) (No Concessions)

Book at www.axeplay.co.uk

A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT For More information call 01452 311211 or visit www.jdrkarting.co.uk Open: Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-7pm & Wed-Fri 11am-9pm (please check availability prior to your visit)

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

Puzzles

SUDOKU - HARD

If you get stuck, the answers can be found on page 31 8

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n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021

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BUSFEST THE POST PANDEMIC VANDEMIC THREE COUNTIES SHOWGROUND, MALVERN 10th - 12th SEPTEMBER

BUSFEST is world’s LARGEST INTERNATIONAL BUSFESTIVAL event for ALL owners, lovers, and enthusiasts of Volkswagen Transporter Vans.

Our DISPLAYS & SHOW & SHINE (held on the SUNDAY) will feature some of the finest examples of VW Transporters in the world

We welcome Traders, Transporters, and enthusiasts from all over the world to a programme of events and entertainment for all ages.

We can promise you an event that has the widest (and wildest) collection of TRANSPORTERS and largest selection of TRADERS & VEHICLE SALES of ANY VW event in the UK.

BUSFEST provides you with absolutely everything and anything you could possibly want or need to do with VW transporters for a whole weekend plus a whole lot more.

OPEN TO DAY VISITORS: 9am Saturday (£25 per adult) 9am Sunday (£20 per adult)

WWW.BUSFEST.ORG

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

n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 210 | September 2021