Wye Valley Now - August 2018

Wye Valley Now AND THE MARCHES

Great Adventures Start with CaravanStuff4U

See page 15 for more information

GARDENING JOBS FOR AUGUST OUR GUIDE TO GREAT DAYS OUT ON THE BUSES AUGUST 2018

ISSUE 81

YOUR FREE COUNTY MAGAZINE t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 ■

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

n 2 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

Wye Valley Now

12

AND THE MARCHES

20 15

Contents AUGUST 2018

HOME & GARDEN 10

Home Interiors at Meyer & Marsh

12

Clever Ideas for a Beautiful Balcony

15

Caravan Stuff 4 U

16

How to Reduce Plastic Waste at Home

20

Kitcheners of Hereford

22

Gardening Jobs for August

26

Nature’s Notebook

22

26

Health & Beauty 28

House of Colour

w y e va l l e y

NOW

editor

design

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

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

Advertising

01905 723011

Suzie Scott 01905 727906 suzie@pw-media.co.uk

2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

Mel Penkoks 01905 727901 mel@pw-media.co.uk

nowmagazine.co.uk

Bex Small bex@pw-media.co.uk

Contributors Front Cover: Caravan Stuff 4 U www.caravanstuff4u.co.uk Glynis Dray

Meyer and Marsh Elho Miles Jones Kitcheners of Hereford Wye Vale Garden Centre Herefordshire Wildlife Trust House of Colour Mousetrap Ludlow Food Festival Independent Age Bill Laws Three Counties Showground

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 3 n

30

32 36 Food & Drink

44

38

30

Recipe British Brie and Asparagus Tart

32

How to Choose the Perfect Cheeseboard

34

Competition Ludlow Food Festival

Golden Years 36

Things to Talk About Before Someone Dies

Our Events Diary 38

Great Days Out

44

Wye Valley Walks

45

On the Buses

46

What’s on this month?

50

Competition Malvern Autumn Show

competition winner Cellar Door J. Moss. Hereford The Royal Welsh Show J. Candy, Hereford

t @WyeValleyNow G Wye Valley Now w www.nowmagazines.co.uk

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

n 4 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

KENTCHURCH COURT

WEDDING VENUE Exclusive venue hire with packages tailored to suit each bride and groom

BEAUTIFUL SETTING FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY. For more information or to arrange an appointment

please contact Jenny on 07985558574 or email: kentchurchweddings@outlook.com t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 5 n

here & Now

Merton House Hotel’s Open Day a Huge Success!

Are you the mystery donor that gave £1,000 to Shropshire firefighters?

In June a mystery donor posted a £1,000 thank you for firefighters in Shropshire.

One of the firefighters at Craven Arms Fire Station discovered the money in an envelope posted in the letterbox with a note saying “thank you for all your help”.

It was reported that Malcolm Stevenson of Shropshire Fire and Rescue said they had no idea where the donation had come from or what it was for. He said: “Obviously we were very pleasantly surprised by the discovery but we would love the person to get in touch so we can say thank you in person.”

Mr Stevenson said they also wanted to make sure that the person had not wrongly believed they have to pay for the fire service’s help. He said: “It is incredibly generous of this person, whoever it is, but there is a slight concern it could have been put there by someone who is vulnerable or confused and might think they have to pay for the help we give them so we would like to make sure that is not the case.”

Mr Stevenson said that if they do not find out who has donated the money they will discuss what it could be used for, with an item that benefits the community likely to be considered, such as a defibrillator.

Members of the Ross Rotary Club volunteered to sell cream teas, coffees and strawberries, and the Carnival Prince and Princess also attended, along with the Deputy Mayor of Ross-on-Wye, Cllr Valerie Coker.

Local musician, Richard Holland, who entertains mid-week at Merton House and is well liked by the guests, provided the entertainment. The fantastic Ross Choristers’ Community Choir, who have supported this event for many years, also performed later in the day.

The Hotel is supported by the Rotary Club of Birmingham, of whom members also attended. The President, Umar Choudhury, presented Merton House’s Manager, Graham Jenkins, with a cheque.

Merton House is a Holiday Hotel for the elderly, frail, and people with disabilities.

It is extremely accessible for wheelchair users, and prides itself on the ‘warm friendly welcome’ it provides for its guests.

The house dates back to the early 18th century, and is full of character, with a warm and cosy atmosphere. The lounge overlooks their beautiful gardens, where guests can enjoy the view and an afternoon drink, and the evening entertainment.

Route for Hereford’s Western Bypass In a press release on the 12th July the County Council leaders revealed their preferred route for Hereford’s contentious western bypass proposals. The officers have recommended the £129m red route which would cross Kings Acre Road near the Bay Horse Inn. The proposed route would travel between Warham Farm and Warham House and cross the River Wye close to Dorchester Way in Belmont. A total of 4,624 residents responded to the latest consultation on the proposals and there was no clear overall preference of any of the seven routes.

Council officers also revealed that the red route would go over five houses which would need to be purchased and a further four would be affected and may see their gardens reduced. Conservative councillor Philip Price, cabinet member for infrastructure, said “the council has wanted to deliver for decades and the project was now beginning to take shape. The bypass will be key to promoting

n 6 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

growth and active travel in South Wye and across the city. It will boost Herefordshire’s economy by allowing greater access to Hereford Enterprise Zone, as well as improving journey time through reduced traffic congestion and delays.”

In was reported that Councillor Bob Matthews, Independent group leader, said the Conservative administration’s choice of the red route was totally unacceptable. “I will continue to vigorously oppose them over this issue”.

And, Liberal Democrat group leader Terry James, who in the past put forward the idea for a western bypass, said “he was surprised the council had chosen the red route as their preferred option. It does more damage than some of the other routes. “They could have been more sensitive to some of the sites along that route.”

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 7 n

here & Now

Opening this Summer A care farm is opening during this Summer at Avenbury, their

our aims of improving mental health and wellbeing and enabling

mission is to provide a secure and welcoming environment for

connections with nature. It means that we can welcome more

their visitors. All areas, indoor and outdoor, will be wheelchair

people to enjoy our care farm at whatever level they choose”.

accessible. The activities will be guided and supervised by the staff. In May 2018 they bid for and were awarded, a generous

The grant will fund the purchase of hard landscaping items such as

grant from the Hereford Community Foundation that will enable

benches, arch ways, water features and different materials such as

the design and planting of sensory garden areas at the site.

pebbles and wood decking. We have purchased perennial shrubs and plants that fit well into a sensory environment so that we can

The director, Ina Dressler-Pearson said, “We were delighted to

create areas for people to enjoy quiet times or have their lunch

receive this grant. By creating a sensory environment at the care

while enjoying the gardens. Some of the money will also be used

farm, people of all abilities will be able to benefit from our day

for equipment to help with the planting and subsequent upkeep

care facility. Some participants may have very limited mobility and

of the gardens as well as for participants working in the vegetable

not be able take part in some of the more physically demanding

garden.

activities on offer. They will however be able to enjoy the therapeutic outdoor environment, the aromas, sounds, birdsong,

We are very grateful for the help we have received from The

butterflies, colours, tastes and all the tactile elements we would

Hereford Community Foundation and thank them for their support

like to include in our project. This grant will really help us to further

in enhancing our special care farm service.

Crocodiles, a puma and an elephant are being kept ‘as pets’ in Wales The Born Free Foundation which revealed the findings said it is concerned about potential ‘unsuitable environments’ for the animals The research revealed that the greatest variety in wild animals was in Monmouthshire , which has five crocodiles, eight bison, 16 ostrich, and ten venomous snakes.

Born Free’s Dr Chris Draper said: “The keeping of wild animals as pets is a growing concern. “The widespread use of the internet has made it easier than ever to ‘order’ or purchase a wild animal without clarification as to where it has come from or how it should be cared for.” Currently, anyone in Britain can keep a dangerous wild animal as long as they obtain a licence from their local authority. To receive a licence the owner needs to demonstrate the animals are not at risk of escape and are properly contained.

Some of the licences include people who use animals for television and films, and keep them on farms and rescue them, but the charity believes most are being kept as pets.

n 8 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 9 n

Home & Garden

Inspirational Home Interiors

at Meyer & Marsh

Our

diverse

unique

of rugs & accessories. Best of all, with our

will look like in your living room? We’ll

from

summer sale sofa prices starting at £779

order free samples for you.

to

and dining tables at £399, you can afford

classic often with more than a hint of

to turn your home into the envy of your

We deliver into the county and beyond,

the

friends!

with our own drivers who carefully

collection the countryside,

&

ranges

contemporary always

at

fabulous

prices. And because we are a proudly independent local family business, we reserve the right to add some handpicked delights purely because we love them (but we suspect you just might, too) Visit our store – we would love to see you!

When you wander into our wonderful shop we promise that you’ll think “wow”.

Newly launched is our brand new Sleep Room… our natural mattresses start at £379 and have been handmade for us in Yorkshire, and our range of upholstered beds are proudly crafted in the UK too.

assemble your furniture in the room of your choice. We even take away your packaging and recycle it for you.

The Hop Pocket Shopping Village has 20 other independent & unique shops to visit,

Our lovely team is on hand to offer friendly,

and with free parking and a restaurant you

expert advice and we encourage you to

have everything you need for a fantastic

kick off your shoes and get comfy on our

day out.

sofas and beds, making sure you take your

Guaranteed to inspire with gorgeous

time – no pushy salespeople here. Not

VOUCHER CODE WVN10

room sets featuring sumptuous sofas

sure if that sofa will fit? We offer a local no-

*10% off any purchase with this code

and chairs, beautiful dining tables and

obligation home visit to make sure it will.

until 31/08/18

occasional pieces, plus a stunning range

Want to see what colour that sofa fabric

*excludes clearance items

n 10 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 11 n

Home & Garden

r o y F n o c s l a a e B d

l I u f r i e t u v a e e l B C a

n 12 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

he

ed

nu

nti

Co

o

t ver

e

pag

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 13 n

Home & Garden Morsoe Kamino available from www.morsoe.com

With green space at a premium,

on solar energy. For every hour of full sun it

especially in our towns and cities,

gets during the day, you’ll get back an hour of

it’s a crime not to make full use

light in the evening.

of your balcony. A balcony should be so much more than a bike shed or dumping ground for that cross trainer you never use. With Elho’s clever ideas it’s never been easier to love your balcony and get closer to nature. So go on, get outside and feel happier, healthier and more energetic.

Make the most of what you’ve got There’s a Green Basics pot or planter for every nook and cranny. If you don’t have floor space to spare on your balcony, use railings, tables and hanging spaces. Liven up a wall with Balcony Pot Holders, or make a humble drainpipe look good with Drainpipe Clickers. And grow your own herbs, vegetables or fruit with the Flower Bridge Grow House.

Light up the night Extend the long summer nights with the clever

Happy plants, happy you Many Elho pots and planters come with an inbuilt water reservoir. If you overwater, or a heavy summer rain shower comes along (remember rain?) the excess water is collected. So you don’t need to spend hours tending to your plants - just sit back and enjoy the sunshine.

Going up If your balcony needs more green, embrace the trend for vertical gardening with the Corsica Vertical Garden. With brightly coloured pots you’ll always have colour on your balcony, even when the Summer is over. Extending the use of your balcony well into the Autumn.

Elho pots and planters are widely stocked at all good garden centres, retailers and available online.

Flower Light. It’s a pretty planter for your

www.elho.com

outdoor table and a practical light that works

www.facebook.com/elho

n 14 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

Great Adventures Start with Caravan Stuff 4U

and explore the scenery. You’ll be needing essential kit and maybe thinking about changing your van so check out our awning range. We’ll be here too come Winter when your pipes have frozen, you’ve run out of Calor gas or you fancy a cosy cover for your van.

Our commitment to the planet...

Based in a beautiful part of Worcestershire and close to the Malvern Hills, we want to keep our environment healthy. Having re-used our waste packaging since our brand was born over 14

It’s been an exciting year here at Caravan Stuff 4 U...

Our speedy warehouse team have picked and packed thousands of parcels every week for home delivery all over the UK and beyond, and our super Customer Service team have helped all our lovely customers to get the best deals on the products you love. We are proud of our dedicated staff and to top it off we’ve recently been awarded Best Caravan Accessories

Retailer 2018 - UK by the 2018 Midlands Enterprise Awards, hosted by SME-News!

We’ve been here for you through it all...

During the wet and windy Spring our team were here when you wanted kettles, televisions and tie-down kits and In July’s heat-wave we’ve been here when you’ve needed fans, barbecues and chairs to relax in.

Autumn means the kids back at school and a quieter time for you to roam the open road

years ago, we are now reducing our need for plastics. Most of our parcels are now sent to you in recycled or recyclable packaging rather than in polythene bags and we’re working towards making our premises more energy efficient in partnership with the SevernWye Energy Agency and the European Regional Development Fund.

We stock everything you need for your next great adventure so come and visit us today for a truly great shopping experience! n

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 15 n

Home & Garden

How to Reduce Plastic Waste at Home Time is up for plastic waste. The UK has grown more conscious about protecting the environment. Plastic waste is no longer silently strangling our world, rather the endless shocking photos of plastic found in the stomach contents of animals, wrapped round fish’s fins, wings and all across the globe have shone a piercing light on the stark realities of the global consumption of plastic and the price we are now paying. It is something we should all take responsibility for because plastic is engrained in our lives. Much like wi-fi and the internet, it seems we can’t live without plastic items. But we can start to make changes which are easier than you might think.

It’s pretty easy to continue using plastic items and not think about where you can cut down on plastic items.

They may seem necessary but there are many areas where you can reduce the plastic usage or cut it out completely.

The first and most obvious area to look at is food packaging. Much of the food we buy from supermarkets will have some form of plastic packaging. From cold meats and cheese to ice cream and pots of coffee, almost all food uses some form of plastic packaging.

Modern supermarkets often have loose food options n 16 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

as well as pre packaged goods. Have a look round to see which foodstuffs you can get. Fruit, vegetables and most meats can easily be bought unpackaged. Not only will this reduce your plastic consumption, you buy the amount you need rather than a pre set amount. Large supermarkets will have different counters for fish, meat and dairy products so take a look there to see what you can buy from them.

Alternatively, research whether you have any local farm shops in your area. These may seem less convenient and out of the way but everything will unpackaged and even be cheaper. The same goes for using separate shops to buy separate ingredients. Local independent butchers and bakeries are good places to buy unpackaged food.

Not only will these work out cheaper but you are also supporting local businesses. It’s a win-win situation.

In recent years the UK government added a 5p tax to plastic bag usage in most stores and supermarkets. If you are still buying plastic bags then now is the time to stop and use ones you already have. The major supermarkets have their “bags for life” which are stronger and can carry a larger amount of goods. They are certainly worth investing in. Just remember to take them with you.

Continued over the page

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 17 n

Home & Garden The most recent controversial plastic stories have been about micro beads that are, as the name suggests, microscopic. These damaging micro plastics are in countless cosmetic products such as exfoliating scrubs and even in toothpaste. Watch out for any products that contain polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and nylon. Any products containing these ingredients will contain microbeads.

Toothpaste are not the only toiletries that use plastics, think of all the plastic containers we use. Shampoo, conditioner, cotton buds, deodorant bottles. All of these can be bought without the use of plastic. These so called ‘naked’ toiletries are available from all the major high street stores and are just as effective at scrubbing us up nicely as anything in a plastic bottle. Lush are currently leading the charge on ‘naked’ toiletries and have been doing so for a number of years.

Keeping your house clean is another area where plastic can be replaced by more traditional methods. Instead of the countless plastic cleaning containers needed for different type of surfaces try some good old fashioned

n 18 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

vinegar and water. This mixture is an all purpose spray that can be used all over the home and is just as good as any high street brand. Similarly, baking powder is extremely effective as a scouring powder and for doing the washing up. Of course, homemade cleaning products can be stored in reusable plastic bottles.

Despite the many things we can do to turn the tide on the plastic waste that is gripping the globe, we must remember that plastic is everywhere and is part of our everyday lives. Nothing will change overnight but if we each of us took some responsibility for what plastics we can cut out of our lives then we can certainly help a fragile and overburdened natural environment recover from this plastic menace.

We should not limit the war on plastic to just the home either. Chew less gum, don’t use plastic straws in drinks, even just making your own sandwiches for work rather than buying meal deals will count as a small victory in this troubling conflict. There are many alternatives to using plastic that are readily available. All we have to do is make them part of our everyday lives too. n Miles Jones

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 19 n

Home & Garden

Kitcheners of Hereford

Still Breaking All Records

Kitcheners have enhanced their growing reputation of providing excellent service and value for money...

They are delighted to announce that their new showroom featuring 14 kitchen size displays has quickly become Hereford’s “go to” showroom for the latest in kitchen design.

Kitcheners Director Matt Bryant said “it has taken a huge amount of effort and investment to relocate and produce an up to date kitchen showroom offering huge choice of door finishes and appliance and worktop options. It has been hard work but we are all delighted with the end result and so far our customers seem to love our displays” Matt went onto explain “their aim is to now build on the good reputation that Kitcheners have enjoyed for many years in Hereford and establish themselves firmly as Herefords no one kitchen specialist. There are large number of outlets offering kitchens in the area by generally they are builder’s merchants, DIY shed or small home improvement shops that offer kitchens. We are long standing kitchen furniture manufacturers that have a wealth of experience in making, designing and installing a high quality kitchen that is no more expensive than the average prices

being quoted in the area.

Kitcheners moved from Holmer trading estate into a brand new building within the old railway siding estate on Mortimer road Hereford. For the last 7 years kitcheners has been run by father and son, John and Matt Bryant who came to Hereford following the sale of their large kitchen manufacturing and retail business in the West Midlands.

They list service, quality and old fashioned value for money as the main reason for their success at Kitcheners. John Bryant told the Hereford Times “first and foremost we never stop listening to their customer’s requirements. Once you know what they are looking to achieve you can set about producing a design that works for them, be sensible with your pricing and take full control of the manufacturing, delivery and installation. This should result in a happy customer who will then tell friends of their experience. We will then receive more orders without the need for expensive advertising and these savings can then be passed on to our clients and so the whole proves becomes more affordable”.

n 20 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

As part of the service, Kitcheners will match internet prices for all electrical appliances and will even beat internet prices on Bosch appliances. Worktops are available in laminate finishes, solid wood, granite and stone. All of the cabinets regardless of door choice are made to a high standard and made at their own factory in the West Midlands. They are particularly proud of the cabinet construction and the quality of the hinges and drawers etc and would be only too pleased to demonstrate their features should you visit the showroom.

Kitcheners offer a full design and project service to include all aspects of minor building work, electrics and plumbing services. Although, if you wish they can simply design and manufacture you new kitchen and deliver it to site for self-installation. If you are looking for a new kitchen in the near future why not call into their new showroom and check them out.

MOST PEOPLE ARE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT KITCHENERS LOW PRICES, CALL TODAY AND FIND OUT WHY. www.kitchensofhereford.co.uk

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 21 n

Home & Garden

Gardening Jobs

For August

The UK’s gardeners are making the most of the August weather to spend time outdoors, but they should also be looking to the seasons ahead and begin preparing their garden for the colder spell.

There are plenty of jobs to keep you busy in the garden this month; it’s the perfect time of year to plant your winter vegetables and start cutting back and deadheading flowers to encourage continual healthy growth.

level leaves from the plant the remaining leaves have more

David Mitchell, buying manager for horticulture at Wyevale Garden Centres, shares his gardening jobs of the month, helping you to get one step closer to your dream back garden:

2. Prune your perennial herbs

1. Safeguard your tomato plants Remove the lower level leaves from your tomato plant to help reduce its risk of disease and keep it thriving for longer. When a tomato plant’s growth is dense or when the leaves lie to close to the ground this can mean that the leaves are permanently in the shade. By removing the lower

perennial herbs which mean they grow back each year

n 22 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

space and access to sunlight so are more likely to stay drier and free from soil containing pathogens, thus they are more protected from disease.

Whether you’re looking to flavour your meat or garnish your cocktails, herbs are the plant of the moment and a fantastic addition to gardens of all sizes. Oregano and thyme are without needing to be replanted. To promote their growth each year, trim them in August before the winter months hit to ensure they withstand the frost.

Continued over the page

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 23 n

Home & Garden

3. Plan ahead for gardening leave It is important not to leave your plants neglected while you are on holiday. A great way to make sure your plants are being watered without asking the neighbours to cover is to invest in a growbag waterer. Once set up, you can control the amount and frequency of water needed for your plants, leaving them perfectly hydrated without becoming waterlogged.

4. Lop back your lavender As with many blooms, it’s important to cut back lavender after its flowering period to promote new growth. Make sure you do so lightly to help maintain the plant’s well-rounded shape. You should be pruning around one third of the plant using a sharp, clean set of pruning shears.

5. Deadhead petunia and potted dahlias Deadheading ensures that plants maintain a healthy continual bloom and August is the ideal month to trim back

Use this month to plant your hardy vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussel sprouts

n 24 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

potted petunias and dahlias. Plants such as dahlias have tough and stringy stems so opt for secateurs, scissors or knives when removing the flower heads.

6. Wind down for winter Use this month to plant your hardy vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and Brussel sprouts, so they are ready to be harvested throughout the winter months. Make sure you plant in an open site with free-draining soil and cultivate before planting to ensure these vegetables have the best chance of growing. n For more information and advice on August’s jobs of the month, along with all the tools you need to gain ground in the garden, visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk.

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 25 n

nature Photo: Elliott Smith

Spotting the Lesser Spotted

with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust Both rare and common wildlife can be thrilling to spot – keep your eyes peeled while you’re out and about and you never know what you might see!

Last month, the Downland Villa, Villa cingulata, a nationally rare species of Beefly once thought extinct in UK was spotted on a Herefordshire Wildlife Trust nature reserve by local naturalist Ian Draycott. This invertebrate looks, at first glance, like a small bee but is in fact a species of fly. A healthy population has now been discovered at White Rocks nature reserve on the Doward, in the open areas of a mostly wooded landscape in the south of the county.

Rare sightings can be good news and can tell a story of conservation success. Red Kites and otters are exciting spots because their numbers have risen from the edge of extinction. One particularly rare and special find is the ghost orchid. Declared extinct in 2005 after not being seen for 19 years, the ghost orchid was then rediscovered in a Herefordshire wood in 2009. Fingers crossed that we see a few more!

However, our more common wildlife, is just as important as our rarities and surely as fascinating and beautiful.

The seasonal repetitions – the return of the swallows, blooming of the bluebells or sound of the first cuckoos – are to be treasured precisely for their familiarity. The decreasing of populations of certain species can give

n 26 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

us a cultural shock as well as an ecological wake-up call.

Once a common sight in even urban gardens and parks, spotting a hedgehog is now a rare treat with less than one million hedgehogs thought to now exist in the UK (- it is estimated that there were around 30 million in the 1950s.) Similarly, the once ubiquitous tree sparrow has sadly also undergone a major decline – of around a huge 95% since 1970.

At Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, our conservation teams carry out regular monitoring in key sites and nature reserves across the county in collaboration with other organisations. We also hold identification and surveying events for the public throughout the year – no previous experience or species knowledge necessary – a great way to start learning what to look for!

If you are out and about either at any of our 55 nature reserves or elsewhere in the county, or just at home in your garden we’d love to know what you’ve identified.

Simply email the details: date; description, location and, if possible, a photo to records@herefordshirewt.co.uk.

And don’t forget to share your top spots with us on facebook or twitter @herefordshirewt ! n

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 27 n

Health & Beauty

Use Style to Blow Away Negativity During Menopause Menopause is steeped in negativity, rarely talked about openly and is often associated with weight gain, mood swings and hot flushes.

However, menopause is different for every woman and there are many ways we can halt the negative association of this all-important phase in life that every woman goes through. To follow are tips on how to build your confidence using style and colour during menopause.

1. Its not always easy but try seeing this as a new phase to your life; perhaps a new chance to reinvent yourself and to celebrate your body, skin and confidence. Always highlight your body parts that you like and don’t think, just perhaps because you are on the good side of fifty, that you must fade into the background! Now is your time!

2. Oestrogen is key to building collagen in our skin, so during menopause your skin may lose elasticity, or look duller and feel thinner or drier. Being well moisturised and wearing the right coloured makeup will make you appear healthier and more radiant. The right lipstick is key!

3. Black is often thought of as a slimming colour but if according to the House of Colour Wheel, you are not a winter season, then it is not your colour. As we age even some winters begin to struggle to carry it off! Tailoring and the art of layering is far more helpful in creating a slimmer look.

4. If you feel like foundation is too chalky on your skin now, try using a BB cream as it has all the benefits of hydrating like a moisturiser, providing the coverage of a light foundation and often contains a sunscreen.

5. It is important to exercise when going through menopause so keep active and choose great sportswear to keep you motivated. Get re-measured for a good fitting bra, invest in some quality sports kit including a n 28 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

great sports bra and choose some trainers in a fabulous colour from your colour palette and you are ready hit the gym or pound the pavements!

6. If you are feeling flushed, know that the right colours will bring down high colouring and if you feel your complexion needs a lift try the more vibrant colours in your colour palette. Importantly, autumns and springs suit warm tones whilst winters and summers should wear cool tones.

7. Use accessories close to your face such a scarves, necklaces or earrings in one of, or an assortment of, your wow colours to highlight your complexion and to look radiant.

8. Comfortable dressing will be another vital consideration during menopause so wearing the right size and shape is important. Some of us may want our clothes to skim over our torso, but make sure you do not swamp your body; you can always add a belt to bring the silhouette in a little. Learning where on your body to best wear a belt is key. It is absolutely possible to prioritise style whilst still being comfortable.

9. You may be getting hot flushes, so wearing more breathable fabrics that allows the air to flow such as linen or 100% cotton will really help. Avoid anything labelled 100% polyester.

10. Patterns are a great way to hide sweat but choose one that really suits you. Different patterns suit different style personalities. You may have something with a lovely pattern in your wardrobe right now that fits well but never feels quite right. It probably isn’t a pattern that suits YOU. n Jane Brook, House of Colour Jane.brook@houseofcolour.co.uk Tel: 07070 293341

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 29 n

Food & Drink

Damson Parfait

with Honeycomb Crumb

from Head Chef Mickey Provis at Green Cow Kitchens Method 1. To make the parfait, boil the 150g sugar and 75ml water to 120°C temperature to a syrup.

Ingredients (Serves six) Parfait • 300g - Damson Puree • 150g – Sugar

2. Meanwhile whisk the 6 egg yolks until they leave a trail in the bowl.

3. Add the sugar syrup to the whisked egg yolks and keep whisking until cold and ribbon stage.

• 6 – Egg Yolks

4. Whip the 150ml cream, then fold the 300g

• 75ml - Water

Damson purée and whipped cream into the egg

• 150ml – Double Cream

mixture.

Damson Coulis (Sauce)

5. Place into small square moulds and freeze.

• 400g of Damsons (stones removed) • 150g of sugar • 200ml - water Honeycomb Crumb • 65g – Golden Syrup • 90g – Sugar • 1tsp – Bicarbonate Soda

8. To make the coulis (sauce) poach the 400g Damsons, bring the 150g sugar and 200ml water together until they reach boiling point, remove and liquidise whilst still hot, pass the pulp through a fine sieve and chill the coulis in the fridge.

6. For the honeycomb, place the 65g Golden syrup and 90g sugar in a pan and bring to the boil.

7. Simmer until golden brown, then add the 1tsp bicarbonate of soda and mix. Pour onto greaseproof paper and, when cool, break into small pieces, like crumbs.

n 30 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

To Serve • Ideally serve in a large deep bowl.

• Drizzle some of the chilled sauce into the centre of plate so it forms an even pool.

• Remove the parfait from the moulds and lay in the centre of the plate on top of the sauce.

• Place the pieces of honeycomb crumb in a circle on top of the parfait.

• Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint. n Crumplebury Farm Whitbourne Worcester WR6 5SG 01886 821992 (office hours) mail@greencowgroup.co.u

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 31 n

FOOD & DRINK

How to Choose the

Perfect Cheeseboard

If you’re planning a summer event or an intimate gathering, a good cheeseboard can add a delectable high to an evening, but where to start? The Mousetrap Cheese shops of Leominster, Ludlow and Hereford would be the obvious place for many. Mousetrap’s owner, Claire Knowles takes us through her thought processes towards the perfect cheese for your event.

“When you’re catering for an event of any size, you always need to get a gauge on how much cheese you might need. I would suggest 50 – 100g per person, 50g if it’s after dinner cheese or just a nibble, or more like 100g if it’s for a lunch or evening buffet and the cheese is the main event. Remember cheese freezes brilliantly, so if you want to err on the side of generosity, don’t worry!

Think about your budget, cheeses vary wildly in price, cow’s milk will always be cheaper than ewe or goat, just due to the economy of scale. If you want to keep the price down, just ask. People always assume indies are more expensive than the supermarket – this is not the case!

A good cheeseboard needs a nice balance of different cheese types, textures and tastes. The good old standard would be a blue, a hard cheese and a brie type. Adding to this is where it gets fun! There are so many to choose from, rind washed, blended, ewe and goat; we stock well over 100 different types of cheese so it might be a hard decision! For me, I’d always go local, we have such a wonderful selection from our local dairies that you really don’t need to look any further than our surrounding counties.

The most popular cheese that we stock is Worcester Hop (recently renamed from Hereford Hop, but don’t worry, it’s the same cheese), this tasty tangy cheddar from Croome Cuisine in Worcester is great for any gathering as it’s mid strength and suits many pallates. I would perhaps balance the creaminess of the Hop with some Little Hereford, this is a gorgeous tasty hard cheese made by the Monkland Dairy just outside Leominster or you could always go for the Oak Smoked version for something a little different. The soft will have to be a Finn from Neals Yard Creamery up at Dorstone, Herefordshire. This cream enriched delight fills your taste buds with mushroomy gorgeousness, a real taste sensation. For a blue, I’d look no further than Moydens cheese up in Bridgenorth; their Wrekin Blue is full of flavour and has the most funky looking rind! The Abergavenny creamery make some

n 32 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

great blended cheeses that are really popular, Y-Fenny is a tasty cheddar mixed with ale and mustard seeds, a taste sensation! If you are a cheese purist go for a good smelly piece of Stinking Bishop from Charles Martel in Dymock. Lastly, our kids would never forgive me if I didn’t finish with their favourite, a lovely little ashed Dorstone goat’s milk cheese, again from Neals Yard Creamery.

Most importantly, make sure it’s a selection that you’ll enjoy, come in and have a taste to help you choose. Then just sit back, with some tasty Herefordshire Cider and nibble away; bliss….. ! n

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 33 n

Our Events diary

Competition

LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL

Ludlow Food Festival returns with a bang this September with a superb line-up of special guests alongside a huge range of top quality food and drink producers from across the Welsh Marches. Set in the beautiful ruins of Ludlow’s medieval Castle, Ludlow Food Festival is the oldest annual food festival in the UK. This year, the festival will be held over the weekend of 7-9 September with advance tickets available online from www.foodfestival.co.uk This year’s line up includes: Wahaca founder Thomasina Miers; gardener Alys Fowler and the London Honey Company’s Steve Benbow talking about bees and growing for pollination; Bristol based-chefs and writers Claire Thomson (5 O’Clock Apron) and Romy Gill MBE (Romy’s Kitchen) doing demonstrations; and Rome based award-winning Guardian food writer and author Rachel Roddy will also be there. Other highlights include: Observer Food Magazine editor Allan Jenkins with a focus on his book Plot 29 plus chefs and food experts from the Marches area including Andy Link from the Riverside Inn at Aymestry – recently awarded Visit England Tourism Pub of the Year and Karl Martin from the acclaimed Old Downton Lodge.

With over 40 hours of free demonstrations over the weekend across three main stages, interactive talks and tastings with different chefs and producers on each day, there’s lots to pack in! A huge range of produce will be available to sample and buy too, everything from fresh vegetables and chocolate, locally produced meats and cheese to unusual wines and beers, honeys and herbs and much more. There will also be free children’s activities from The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre as well as free children’s cookery sessions from Outside the Box. You can see free demos from BBC Saturday Kitchen regular Brad Carter of Birmingham’s Michelin starred Carters of Moseley; award-winning cookery writer Charlotte Pike; DJ BBQ; Masterchef Professionals Finalist Louise Ellis from Nottingham’s Michelin starred Restaurant Sat Bains; Hangfire BBQ’s Samantha Evans and Shauna Guinn; Elly Curshen from the Pear Café in Bristol; and Lizzy Hughes from Malvern’s vegan and vegetarian cookery school, Our Lizzy Cookery School.

Hannah Mackley, Events Manager for Ludlow Food Festival, said: “Ludlow and the wider Marches area is a genuine centre of culinary excellence, not just with top quality restaurants but also fantastic independent food shops, butchers, bakers, and more – we take good food seriously here! I’m delighted we’ve got such a fantastic line-up for this year’s festival, whatever your interest in food is, we’ve got something perfect for you - whether it’s tastings, talks and demos or taking part in our Sausage or Ale Trails.

We can’t wait to welcome you in September for a fun-filled foodie weekend!”

www.FOODFESTIVAL.CO.UK

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of day tickets to Ludlow Food Festival, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Ludlow Food Festival is the country’s longest running food festival, but when did it start?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Ludlow Food Festival WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 18th August 2018. n 34 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

Answer: Name: Address: Tel: Email:

If you DO wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Ludlow Food Festival please tick this box

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 35 n

Golden Years

Things to Talk About

Before Someone Dies

Do you know their wishes?

A person may become unable to communicate their wishes; if they were unconscious, would you know how they would want to be looked after? And have they made their wishes for after their death clear? Try to make sure you know about: • Where they would want to spend the end of their life • Any preferences they have for their medical treatment and care. Have they made an advance decision to refuse treatment or an advance statement, or would they like to make one?

• Whether anyone has power of attorney for them, and if so which type. Or if not, do they want to appoint attorneys?

• Their wishes for their funeral and anything else they would like to be done in their memory • Whether they have a pre-paid funeral plan or funeral insurance and where the details can be found • Whether they have made a will and where this is kept. If they have not made a will, it is important for them to do so.

• Whether they are on the Organ Donor Register • Their wishes for any dependants • Their wishes for any pets.

Practical matters These can often be overlooked, but are also crucial to think about.

For example, if you’re living with someone, you may each have practical tasks you tend to take responsibility for and which the other person may know little about.

Make sure the person who is dying has made a list of their bank accounts, credit cards, bills, and insurance policies, and that you or someone else knows where this is kept. They might also need to share online passwords and tell you what they want to be done with any social media accounts.

It can be easy to overlook simple things: • Do you know how all the appliances, the heating system and any alarms work?

• Will there be an effect on your income? You might want to look into whether there are any benefits you will be able to claim.

• Are there tasks you relied on them for, such as cooking or driving? You may want to consider learning new skills (councils and local charities may run courses in basic skills like DIY and cooking) or see if there are local services that can help you.

Where will you find emotional support?

The death of someone you know, particularly someone you’re close to, can be devastating. Even if the person has not yet died, you may n 36 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

already be experiencing some form of grief. You might be grieving for how your relationship used to be, or how the person was before their illness, or anticipating the loss their death will cause.

Everyone deals with bereavement differently, but there is support available if you want it. You might want to talk to your GP, friends and family, or a bereavement counsellor. Read our guide Coping with bereavement for more information.

Professionals who are involved with caring for the person who is dying may also be able to help you. For example, hospices provide a range of support for patients and their families, including bereavement support. n Visit www.independentage.org

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 37 n

Great Days Out Clearwell Caves - Ancient Iron Mines

There’s been quite a few changes at Clearwell Caves recently, with exciting displays showing how the amazing complex of natural caverns and mines were formed and worked. For thousands of years, iron mining was the backbone of Forest of Dean industry, fun displays and large atmospheric caverns, reveal the miners’ work. A memorable experience. As well as impressive show caves, if you are looking for something a little more physical, you can book exciting caving activities, scrambling and crawling through some challenging adventures. More details about visiting the Caves and the adventure caving trips, are shown on the Clearwell Caves website. The Caves have a great gift shop selling unusual gifts and minerals; there is also the charming Lamp Room café that is worth being a destination in itself. Children’s play area. Free car parking. n n 38 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

Newbridge Farm Park is full of fun this summer!

Children of all ages enjoy the variety of play and animal contact that is offered at Newbridge; feeding and holding animals, and having a lot of fun in our soft play areas, hay bale tunnels, rope swing, sandpits, zipwire, car track, trampolines, and playframes! Parents love our large, open play area, offering a safe play environment for their children.

Our family run farm park is a perfect way to spend a summers day with your family and friends! Our friendly selection of animals, including alpacas, donkeys, rabbits, & goats, will be happy to greet you! As well as feeding and hands on sessions, you can experience a fast & bumpy tractor ride, which visitors of all ages enjoy!

Check our website or Facebook page for more details and events.

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n

n 40 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

Monet to make ‘impression’ at Ralph Court Gardens A new garden has been created this year of Claude Monet’s painting ‘The Japanese Footbridge’ but, with all things at the garden, with a twist. Monet’s work will be brought to life and visitors will be able to not only see his painting but actually walk into it!

A gallery of his work has been built with views over a recreation of his most elaborate painting of the Giverny gardens. We had great fun researching and recreating this Monet masterpiece and hope he would be pleased with its creation. Monet’s own garden located in the North West of Paris is different from the painting as he uses his artistic flair and imagination to create his ultimate water lily garden.

The gardens at Ralph Court and restaurant are open every day from 10am – 5pm.

The gardens are located in Edwyn Ralph, Bromyard HR7 4LU. 01885 483225 www.ralphcourtgardens.co.uk

Discover beautiful Batsford Arboretum this summer Batsford is the perfect place for the kids to let off steam this summer!

Soak up the sunshine on the lawn, follow the meandering waterways or escape the heat in the cooling glades beneath the tree canopy where you’re guaranteed to see a whole host of insect-life enjoying the thousands of plants!

You’ll find delicious lunches – including yummy snack boxes for children – hot drinks and home-baked cakes from the Garden Terrace Café. Enjoy your meal on the wooden deck where you can soak up the sun whilst the children burn off some energy in our play area - be sure to visit the parrots in our aviary while you’re there!

Browse the gift shop and the fantastic range of plants and gardening sundries in the garden centre or visit Batsford’s wood turner.

If you love exploring in the great outdoors, you’ll love Batsford Arboretum! Open daily, dogs welcome on a short lead.

Visit our website for details on our forthcoming events, including: Family photography workshops; Storytelling & crafts in our Forest School; The Big Batsford Bug Hunt; Open-air theatre.

Visit www.batsarb.co.uk, call 01386 701441 or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre, Nr. Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AD t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 41 n

Hampton Court Castle There’s always something happening at Hampton Court Castle, Herefordshire.

This ‘Gem of a Find’ set in hundreds of acres in the heart of Herefordshire is a day out not to be missed.

The award winning gardens alone will take your breath away. The Victorian walled gardens are divided by water canals, pleached avenues and pavilions. The Kitchen garden is an ornamental garden of fruit and vegetables. Beautiful herbaceous borders stretch out from the 150 year old Wisteria tunnel that leads to vast lawns and ancient trees beside the Castle. The 1,000 yew tree maze, and sunken garden with a cascading waterfall, completes the picture.

Founded by King Henry IV in the early 15th century, and built as a result of a knight’s bravery at Agincourt, the Castle has been on an interesting, and sometimes surprising, journey through the centuries.

You can enjoy a 45 minute guided tour to learn about the history four times a day.

Go to our website to see what special events are happening for all the family throughout the season.

The gardens are open every day until 16th September 2018. The Castle is open most days except for private functions, see our website for any days it may be closed.

We would like to extend a very warm invitation for you to visit us and see what we have to offer – we don’t think you would be disappointed! n 42 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 43 n

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

Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station at Malvern Link. Please check current timetables. The ‘44’ bus serves Malvern Link (ask for Co-op then walk uphill for ½ mile). Station on right. As a mid-distance walk, the 417 bus serves ‘Leigh Sinton’ to Worcester (then 44 bus to Malvern Link) cutting the main walk down to 7.5 miles. (Traveline). Another option is to walk one way to ‘The Fox’ then use 417 and 44.

Parking: There are a few places to ‘street-park’ near station but please do not use Station car park as this is for rail users only.

O/S Map: Explorer Maps 190 and 204 Distance: The main walk is 10 miles. Shorter option 5 miles (see sketch-map).

Time: Allow all day to do main walk. Shorter walk am/pm.

Refreshments: ‘The Fox Inn’ at Bransford (see sketch-map) is a great place to aim for in the morning then after your meal, walk back to Malvern or catch buses back via Worcester! For walking ‘groups’ or individuals and families who like to plan ahead, meals can be booked by telephoning ‘The Fox Inn’ at Bransford on 01886 832247. Food is served from 12 noon to 10pm every day.

Terrain: This walk is gently undulating but has steep steps, stiles, gates, kissinggates and foot-bridges. Unfortunately, the route is unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs though you will be very welcome at ‘The Fox Inn’ at Bransford.

Dogs on leads near livestock and traffic please. Supportive boots and long trousers essential. Poles can be useful as some nettles and vigorous growth in places. Credit to local land-owners that this very rural walk is, on the whole, easily navigated. The River Teme is visible from a few points History: The walk starts and ends at the recently restored Victorian Railway Station at Malvern Link. Along the route there is an historic Church at Bransford, numerous timber-framed buildings, many views of the Malvern Hills near and far and several hop-kilns.

Malvern to Bransford Circular Walk Written and illustrated by Glynis Dray

1. From Malvern Link Station, cross car-park to Worcester Road turning left past Fire Station and WCs. Cross Howsell Road taking Cromwell Road on left. Follow Redland Road to Church Road. Go beneath railway arch and up 15 steps on right through kissing-gate.

Follow railway path northwards for ¾ mile with railway on right to Lower Howsell Road.

6. Turn right towards Leigh turning left on hill-top. Take ‘right’ of two

2. Path opposite currently ‘closed’ so turn left, taking path through large gate on right (after two bends in road). Walk diagonally to far right corner to re-join route (see sketch-map). Next ¾ mile deviates from railway and follows ‘wildlife margin’ with hedge on right to Stocks lane near brook.

through back garden of cottage onto A4103 near hop kilns at Leigh

3.Turn right, over brook, towards railway ‘level crossing’ and Newland East Signal Box (don’t cross railway and beware of barrier arm). Go through kissing-gate on left near barrier and follow uneven field margin alongside railway. Persevere because things do get better!

Pass railway ‘under-bridge’. Continue towards woodland, skirting end of field to footbridge. Turn right over bridge then right to wooden barrier onto bridleway then turn left. Follow track to Brace’s Leigh, through farm buildings and ½ mile beyond to crossroads in paths.

(Short walk turns left to point 8)

then on right taking path through hedge and right to Lower Howsell

4. Turn right and walk along right edge to gate and stile, turning left over stock-bridge before gently climbing slope to kissing-gate into lane past picturesque Bransford Church. At Chapel Lane, turn right for 300 yards to footpath on right going diagonally across large field.

Field narrows into strip leading through several gates and over track bearing left to another gate. Continue uphill towards houses on skyline, through kiss-gate down onto busy A4103. Cross with care turning right along pavement. Walk for ¼ mile crossing disused railway and just before Bransford Bridge ‘Fox Inn’ on right.

5. Opposite ‘Fox Inn’ take gate into meadow. Turn right round wide path alongside River Teme, through small gate, veering right to ‘fenced’ riverside path. Cross stile and walk to ‘promontory’ with private woodland. Turn left along ‘Riverside Trail’ via several flights of steps. Turn right along pretty woodland path up above river for about ½ mile to Bransford. Exit into meadow and follow path to lane. n 44 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

paths downhill, turning right along Suckley Road. After ½ mile take ‘by-way’ on left (avoiding golf-course).

7. Turn left to ‘Castle Green’ turning left again along bridleway leading south towards Malvern Hills. Take next footpath on left, shortly turning right then left along well-worn paths and finally Sinton.

8. Turn left along A4103 then right along Stocks lane. Take track on right leading to Brook Farm. Cross stream at ‘ford’ walking southwards to fork in paths. Turn left and walk with hedge first on left Road.

9. Turn left to railway.

10. Turn right retracing outward walk (railway on left) to Malvern Link Station. n

LIVING history

On The Buses As plans progress for a new bus station at Barr’s Court Station, Bill Laws looks back at pioneering days on the buses.

In its infancy Herefordshire’s country buses struggled to compete with the railways. Before Lord Beeching’s 1965 railway rationalisation, every market town - Ross, Bromyard, Kington, Leominster, Ledbury and Hay had its own railway station linked to Hereford.

The petrol-engine buses had to be hand cranked to start - ‘no mean feat on a cold winter’s morning - some had a kick like a mule’, recalled Jim. In deference to the women, diesel-engined buses, each equipped with an electrical starter motor, were allocated to the women drivers.

The bus companies, however, were determined to break the railway monopoly and in time Midland Red, Wye Valley Motors, Bengry’s Primrose buses and G.H. Yeomans all found a niche in the market.

Among Bill’s novice drivers were Winnie Tranter and Katy Nash. Katy was taken on in 1941 and she later recalled to Richard Dimbleby on BBC radio’s Down Your Way how she went on to drive for the Midland Red for the next 22 years.

Our photo, loaned by the late Jim Thomas, a founding members of the county reminiscence group Herefordshire Lore, shows staff and omnibuses from the first of the company bus services, Midland Red. And the bus station?

The back yard of the Black Lion in Bridge Street, Hereford. In 1922 Jim’s father Bill, standing to the right of the Tilling Stevens bus OE-1126, became one of the first of the city drivers.

By 1940, however, everything had changed. The country was at war and most of the drivers had joined the Forces. Bill, by now too old to join the fight, found himself teaching women to drive.

Two years after Katy retired, Lord Beeching hacked back the railway system leaving only Leominster and Ledbury with a rail service. The bus companies, eager to fill the gap, promised to provide the necessary public transport. It was, it seems, a hollow promise.

Check out the local living history at www.herefordshirelore.org.uk n Bill Laws www.billlaws.com 07742 825813

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 45 n

What's On

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH

Herefordshire Country Fair Sunday 5th August www.herefordshirecountryfair.co.uk

Contact: communications@

AUGUST

Cost: see website for details

Wednesday 1st

The annual parade through the town centre

Exotic Animal Encounters

begins at 1pm on the day and the stalls will

Sunday 5th

at Hampton Court Castle

be open on Carnival field at The Rope Walk

Herefordshire Country Fair

There’s some wonderful fun at Hampton

by the river from 11am – parade, stalls, bar,

Herefordshire Country Fair offers Three

Court Castle as you are invited to get up

fun fair. Every year the annual procession

rings of non-stop all-day entertainment

close to some exotic animals with Trevor

makes its way around the town’s centre,

and country fair favourites: terrier racing,

Hill’s popular Exotic Animal Encounters this

showing off a magnificent display of floats

working gun dogs, inter hunt relay, scurry

summer holiday. You’ll get to see, hold and

and fancy dress. Anyone can take part in

racing, laser clay shooting, fly fishing and a

learn about a variety of animals including

the carnival, with some great prizes up

parade of foxhounds. With over a 100 trade

reptiles,

for grab.

stands, the shopping and craft marquee

insects,

meerkats,

forgeurbanrevival.co.uk

Ross Carnival

armadillos

and skunks. The gardens, castle tours and Orangery are all open as usual during this event. Normal admission prices apply.

and the fabulous food hall, the fair offers a

Cost: Free entry

great shopping experience. The Fair is now

Contact: 07854 795374

in its 40th year and promises a great family

Dates are as follows:- 1 – 2 August, 22 -23,

Oakengates Artisan Village Fair

August 29 – 30 August.

Oakengates

will be a great day of country sport and fun

Square.

for all the family. There will be equestrian

It will be on the first Saturday of each

and dog competitions and displays running

month throughout 2018. This event will

Saturday 4th

throughout the day. The Food Hall and the

bring excitement for all, every age can

Shopping Marquee offer a great shopping

Shropshire Food Fair

find something interesting, because this

experience. There is also a Motor Village,

Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre - Join us

fair will include all the following, stalls for talented local crafters, craft workshops, live

showcasing the best in new models and

for our first Shropshire Food Fair with local food and drink suppliers displaying their

music, delicious food from a range of local

products. We are proud to be celebrating

producers, art work, handmade jewellery

Cost: Adults £10.00, Children £5.00,

all that our wonderful area has to offer

and other gems, yummy cakes and many

Family Ticket £25.00

Contact: 01568 797777 Cost: Normal Admissions Apply

Contact: 01588676060 n 46 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

more!

Oakengates

Village

day out. The doors open at 9:30 on what The

Wakes,

ARTISAN

Cost: free of charge

Theatre

at

the ever popular Classic Car Display.

Contact: 01981 550 005

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 47 n

What's On

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH 9.30am to 3pm in border town Kington’s historic Market Hall and adjacent Place de Marines – the stunning glass-roofed outdoor space filled with the luxuriant planters and hanging baskets of Kington in Bloom. The high quality art and craft desirables, all by local artists and designer-makers, include textiles, paintings, botanical lightshades, the Magic Gardener’s traveling Domestic Apothecary (custom herbal bathing goodness), ceramics, jewellery, art cards, woodcraft, and more.

Contact: kingtoncommunitymarket. wordpress.com Cost: Free

Brampton Bryan Scarecrow Sunday Sunday 5th August Sunday 5th Brampton Bryan Scarecrow Sunday A village wide celebration of scarecrows – fun for all the family. Rare chance to see Brampton Bryan Castle. Country fete, with stalls, games teas and fun dog show, Flower Festival, lunches & Licensed Bar, Teas, Ice Creams & Hot Dogs, castle Tours 12.00pm & 3.15pm, Fun Dog Show, Children’s Sports, Strawberry Cart Rides, Veteran Cars, Raffle, Stalls and Games Cost: Tours £5 or £3 with Entrance Ticket.

Contact: www.facebook.com/ Brampton-Bryan-ScarecrowSunday-791744064257517

Sunday 8th Waterworks Open Day There are trails for the children and interactive devices across the Museum which visitors are encouraged to touch and use. This includes the Heritage Water Park (a children’s play ’n’ learn zone) in there are nine life size devices for pumping, moving and filtering water. Inside the Visitor Centre there is a play area for younger children.

Exhibitions, Home to a permanent exhibition about Hereford in WW2 the n 48 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

museum is generally seen as a time capsule of social history for Herefordshire, the Marches and parts of Wales. With one of the widest range of working steam, oil, gas and hot air engines engines in the UK, many of which can be seen doing what they were intended for – pumping water, this will be a fantastic day out. Refreshments & Gifts, Light refreshments and small souvenirs can be purchased in the cafe and visitor centre and picnics are permitted in the picturesque grounds. Dogs will be permitted in the museum grounds providing they are on a leash and do not disturb other visitors (but, except for assistance dogs, not in the Museum building or in the Heritage Water Park).Future Waterworks Museum Family Open Day events will be held regularly throughout the year, please check the website for details.

Contact: waterworksmuseum.org.uk Cost: Adults £6.00, Seniors £5.00 and Children £2.00

Saturday 18th Kington Arts Craft and Vintage Market Kington Art, Crafts and Vintage Market brings an eye-catching array of beautiful handmades which are on show all day from

Angelfest The Angel Bar & Kitchen. Six live bands, craft stalls, food and cider stalls. 15.00 to 21.00 Contact: 01568 709195 Cost: Free

Sunday 23rd Prestiegne Arts Festival Held each August in an intimate setting nestling on the Powys/Herefordshire border, the Presteigne Festival has become a focal point for those seeking musical nourishment and artistic discovery in the beautiful surroundings of the Welsh Marches. With a truly forward looking commissioning policy, the organisation works closely with composers and artists to create and curate inspiring programmes and events for an ever-widening Festival audience and to bring experience broadening opportunities to its host community.

The Presteigne Festival’s six music-filled days span the August Bank Holiday period.

Established over thirty years ago, the Festival has a long tradition of supporting young artists and for presenting a fresh and individually stylised mix of contemporary works carefully balanced with twentieth century classics and featuring a wide range of music from the standard repertoire.

Contact: www.presteignefestival.com Cost: Booking on Website

The Amazing Hedge Puzzle The Jubilee Maze is one of Britain’s most famous traditional hedge mazes, with a romantic temple at the centre and over a kilometre of hedges. It was planted by Lindsay and Edward Heyes in 1977.

Find your way then play! This maze is a great place to play tag or Marco Polo with all the family. Not up to running around? Play by stealth! There’s a viewing platform for calling directions... but who can you trust? It’s not too difficult to have fun, but if you are up for a serious challenge you should investigate the history of labyrinths at the Museum of Mazes.

With myths, maths, mysteries and magic, it’s all hands-on, with puzzles about making mazes. How about a maze with just one path and no hedge? Well, the earliest mazes were never intended to be puzzles for people... they were used as traps for evil spirits. Discounted tickets including the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo are available, and Wye Valley Miniature Golf rounds at half price when you visit the aMazing Hedge Puzzle.

The maze is in the Wye Valley at Symonds Yat between Ross on Wye and Monmouth and a walk away from Forest Holidays in the Forest of Dean. n

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 49 n

Our Events diary

Competition MALVERN AUTUMN SHOW

Malvern Autumn Show in association with Westons Cider Mill will return this September with a feast of family entertainment, artisan produce, and food and gardening royalty. The harvest show of the season in association with Westons Cider Visitor Centre will showcase the best seasonal food and gardening in the stunning setting at the foot of the Malvern Hills.

Visitors to the show will be able to browse top exhibits in the Flower Show and purchase top quality plants from these awardwinning nurseries. Each year, the show proves a one-stop destination for gardeners in search of advice for preparing and restocking their gardens for the winter months.

The CANNA UK National Giant Vegetable Championship promises to return bigger and better than ever before with a broad variety of oversized vegetables.

Nostalgia and retro fans can discover hidden gems in the Vintage Village with an array of eclectic finds including fashion, homewares, classic cars and more.

Malvern Autumn Show is a show for all the family and throws open its gates to welcome toddlers to teenagers and big kids too.

The Malvern Autumn Show will take place on Saturday 29 September and Sunday 30 September. Tickets are now on sale.

Advanced tickets are priced at £17 for adults and £6 for children.

Tickets are available on the gate at £21 for adults and £8 for children. Family and group tickets are available. n

www.malvernautumn.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning one of three family tickets to the Malvern Autumn Show, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

In which month does the Malvern Autumn Show take place?

Answer: Name: Address: Tel:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Autumn Show WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP.

Email:

Closing date for entries is 20th August 2018. n 50 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018

If you wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from The Three Counties Showground please tick this box

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 51 n

n 52 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 81 | August 2018