Wye Valley Now December 2016 / January 2017

WYE VALLEY

N W DEC ´16 ¯ jan ´17

issue SIXTY¯THREE

The Little Bridge Kitchen and Bar

opening soon see page forty-two for more information

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

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

ADVERTISE

Mel Penkoks

Tel: 01905 727901 mel@pw-media.co.uk Suzie Scott Tel: 01905 727906

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

suzie@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

Amy Thomas

06

Make a move for the better?

CONTRIBUTORS

Grace Anderson Glynis Dray Lisa Fisher Kay Hurdidge Frances Weeks

www.gardenstoreonline.co.uk

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Front cover image: Kateland Clarke

COMPETITION WINNERS Coral Welsh Grand National J. Kelly, Ledbury Certainly Wood L. Evans, Suckley ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this

A VERY BRITISH CHRISTMAS?

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Winter wildlife

publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media and 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 and 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 and the Marches Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

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Festive winter wonders

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CONTENTS

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34

PIG CHEEKS AND GARLIC MASH

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Time-saving kitchen tips for the festive season

dec ´16 ¯ jan ´17

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE

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St John Kemble: hanged in Hereford

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our events diary

ALONE THIS CHRISTMAS

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WALK ALONG MARCLE RIDGE

Win a luxury spa day for two at the Malvern View Spa

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homestyle

is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

make a move for the better?

If you’ve fallen out of love with where you’re living then you have to decide whether to "do up" or "sell up".

N

ot enough bedrooms for your growing family? Empty nest? The layout not working for you and your children? Or maybe you’re

just sick of the avocado bath suite?

The house that was once your dream home can quickly start to look more like a nightmare. So is it time to pack up your belongings and seek the space you crave elsewhere, or could you fall back in love with your home if it was given a little (or a lot) of TLC?

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>>

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homestyle

To help you choose between doing

diner. Plus, any money you spend

mess and major changes like a loft

up and selling up we’ve taken a look

on improvements can add to your

renovation or extension can lead to

at the good, the bad and the ugly of

property’s value in the long term. Just

chaos for months. If you do any work

both options.

remember to be aware of your area’s

in your kitchen you may become well

ceiling price - the maximum amount

acquainted with the local takeaway if

Improving

a similar house has sold for in your

The good: You can put your own

area.

stamp on your home AND add value.

Renovating your home allows you to put your own stamp on it and make sure the space really works for you and your family. You can think about exactly what it is you need, and make changes you know will make your life easier, whether that’s an updated

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The bad: There's some things you just can't change. Sadly you can’t pick up your house and move it so if there are things you don’t like about your neighbourhood or location - such as poor schools or a long commute – you’ll still be stuck with them.

your cooker is out of action.

Moving The good: You get a bright, shiny new home. You may be able to find the perfect property at the right price in the right location. If you can afford it, you'll be able to buy somewhere bigger, without the chaos of builders and the accompanying brick dust.

kitchen, creating an extra room in

The

the

You could find something ready to

the loft or knocking down a wall

destruction. Even seemingly simple

move into with a layout and set up

to create a family-friendly kitchen-

renovations can cause a lot of

that suits your household's needs

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

ugly:

Coping

with

>>

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homestyle

better. You could end up with more

into the long term value of your

the for sale sign in the front lawn

space, a bigger garden in a better

home. Stamp duty adds up to £2,500

or get the builders in you need to

area. If you are downsizing then you

for a home worth £250,000 and

think carefully about what it is you

can release capital or even reach the

the more expensive home you buy

are looking for from your home and

nirvana point of having paid off the

the more you'll pay. Typical estate

how much money you can afford to

agent fees can be anything between

spend.

mortgage.

The bad: You may still have to do some work. How many houses have you seen on the market, in your price range, that you’d be happy to keep exactly as they are? You could move and still find yourself with work to do, whether it’s just giving some rooms a

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0.75% and 3.5% of the selling price and run into thousands. Plus there are solicitors’ fees and even the price of hiring a van to consider. On downsizing the current figure for your new property not attracting Stamp Duty is only £125,000 so most

lick of paint or bigger jobs like fitting

new retirement properties will need

a new kitchen.

the tax budgeting for.

The ugly: The costs of moving soon

The verdict?

add up and the money doesn’t go

It’s a tough one. Before you bang

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Still stuck? It’s also worth asking the experts. Get quotes from local tradesmen and the planning office to see what improvements are realistic and ask your local estate agent to send you details of houses that meet your requirements. Good luck and a great New Year whether moving or staying.

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homestyle

TWELVE perfect handmade gifts Spread some Christmas cheer with these lovely handmade gift ideas.

1. Biscuits and cookies

Christmas gifts to give. Use very strong adhesive to

Home baked biscuits or cookies make such a lovely

stick cinnamon sticks around a glass jar. Add a tea light

gift. Wrap in cellophane bags and add pretty ribbon

or candle to make a lovely and beautifully scented

and a gift tag to complete the gift.

homemade Christmas gift.

2. Jams and chutney

5. Salt and sugar scrubs

Another foodie gift is making your own jams, curds,

Salt and sugar scrubs are so easy to make and they look

pickles or chutneys. Sterilise old jars in the dishwasher

and smell divine. You can make salt scrubs with sea salt

and then cook up a batch of jams or chutneys. Add

and sugar scrubs using brown sugar. Simply almost

a circle of fabric to the jar lid and a pretty gift tag to

fill the container with your chosen fragrance such as

complete your gift.

coconut etc the spoon in the salt/sugar slowly until filled.

3. Lavender bags

your skin so soft and clean and are a real luxury in a jar.

Sew little squares of pretty fabric together and fill with

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Add a few drops of essential oils. Cap & label. They make

lavender for a lovely gift. Add lace or ribbon to embellish.

6. Bath salts

4. Cinnamon stick candle

pretty jar and decorate with lace or hessian. It smells

Simple to make but one of the loveliest handmade

divine and makes for a really relaxing bath.

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Add dried lavender or rose petals to sea salt. Pop in a

>>

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homestyle

7. Handmade soaps

you allow the stronger the brandy taste - I leave mine for a

Make your own soap. Add pretty additions to make it look

month! Strain the cherries and reserve the brandy. Melt the

and smell great. You can make loads of bars from one

chocolate in a medium sized bowl. Dip the cherries, one at

batch and wrap with twine, lace or vintage fabric to make

a time using a cocktail stick into the chocolate to coat. Place

gorgeous-looking presents. You can melt commercial

coated cherries on a plate, spaced out so they dont stick to

soap or buy it in kit form from Hobbycraft etc.

each other and put in the fridge until the chocolate has set

8. Bath bombs Making your own deliciously scented fizzing bath bombs is easier than you think and they make lovely gifts. To make add together 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup citric acid (powder) and ½ cup of Epsom salts add in the liquid ingredients, 1 tsp. water, 2 tsp. essential oil, 3 tsp. olive oil, food colouring.

Shape and fill a bath bomb mould, packing it quickly before the mixture has time to dry out. You can use muffins trays etc if you don’t want to buy a special mould.

9. Flavoured Vodka or Gin The quickest fruit to make this with is raspberries. Try this for Christmas: 300g of raspberries, 330g of white granulated sugar & 1.5 litres gin. Wash raspberries and discard any bruised fruit. Place rasberries in a large 2 litre jar. Add the sugar and top up with gin to the rim.

Shake every day until the sugar is dissolved and then store in a cool, dark place. Best after 3 months. Give in small pretty bottles, decorate with labels and bows.

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hard. Store in a plastic box in a cool place (or the fridge).

11. Truffles 3oz Plain Chocolate, 3oz Ground Almonds, 3oz Caster Sugar, 2 Tablespoons Brandy - from the cherries, Chocolate Vermicelli or Cocoa Powder to coat. Put the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix well. Add melted chocolate and brandy, mix well. Roll small amounts (about a teaspoon full) into balls and roll in the vermicelli or cocoa. Refrigerate on plates until firm. Store in a cool, dry place.

12 It’s a Cracker!

1. Take an A4 peice of paper and lay one of your cardboard tubes in the middle. If you are using cracker snaps, feed it through the tube, and then tape at either end to secure in place.

2. Lay a cardboard tube either side of the central one, and roll your paper around the tubes. Secure with glue or sticky tape.

3. Pull one of the tubes out by about 5-10cm and give the end a twist to scrunch the paper slightly. Remove

10. Brandy Cherries

the tube entirely and then use the scrunched paper as

Use Glacé Cherries (or stoned frozen ones), Brandy, Plain

a guide to where to tie your ribbon.

Chocolate (dark works best). Put the cherries in a screw

4. Slide the gift/joke/hat through the tube at the other end.

topped jar and pour the brandy in, fill to at least half way up.

5. Repeat the tieing process for the other end and

Store for at least a week and shake the jar daily. The longer

you're done!

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

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CHRISTMAS

A VERY BRITISH CHRISTMAS? Urrgghh, German Christmas markets. These days they're practically obligatory for every town and city in Britain, and they do odd things like replacing mulled wine with Glühwein, and have stalls promoting gingerbread and stollen.

B

etween that, the evolving of Father Christmas

sitting around the Christmas tree at Windsor Castle,

to the foreign Santa, and the decline of the

which was printed in the Illustrated News in 1848.

nativity play, it is starting to feel like there

Before then, the Christmas tree was largely a 16th

isn't very much Britishness left in our town

Century German tradition, symbolising the Garden of

Christmas’ any more.

On reasearching it transpires that our nationalist feelings over Christmas has more to do with the enduring influence of the Victorians than any rational

the German Protestant reformer, had the idea of adding candles to the tree, after seeing stars shining through the branches of a fir tree.

claim to an age-old heritage. And the Victorians were

Although Father Christmas is a tradition on these isles,

influenced, well, by the Germans. It seems that this

he has become subsumed into the figure of Santa, who

was not covered in the ITV program of Young Victoria,

was a Turk. Saint Nicholas, the 4th Century bishop of

maybe it happens in the next series.

Myra, was from a region of Ancient Greece that is now

Christmas was barely celebrated in the early 19th Century. Businesses didn't even close on the 25th.

But once the German-born Prince Albert came on the scene, it was suddenly all the rage, prompted largely by the famous etching of Queen Victoria and family

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Eden (it was mainly hung with apples). Martin Luther,

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

part of modern Turkey; the Dutch garbled his name, changing it from Sint Nikolaas to Sinterklass, and in 1935, a Coca-Cola ad man called Haddon Sundblo gave him his iconic red suit. After the drepression Coca-Cola thought we needed cheering up.

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CHRISTMAS

The Americans have a lot to answer for. Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer was first created in 1939 by the American copywriter Robert L May, who created the character for the Montgomery Ward company, a Chicago-based chain of department stores.

Reindeer is actually an old Norse word but I guess the North America cousin of Caribou doesn’t have the same ring. Stockings started with the Turkish Saint Nicholas. He was renowned for his generosity, and his name day was marked by the giving of gifts. This became mixed with a dash of Scandinavian paganism, as children would fill their shoes with straw and vegetables and

10 Things you promised not to do each Christmas

1

You vow not to leave it all until the last minute this year, then you inevitably do

exactly that.

2

You ask someone in a shop for help and they explain that they don’t work there,

leave them out to feed Odin’s horse, Sleipnin and have them

they just look a bit like they do.

filled with sweets in return.

3

In the 12th Century, a group of nuns defined the tradition by leaving stockings stuffed with goodies – including an apple and

You take the executive decision to do all your shopping online because it’s

modern and much less stress. You then

a satsuma – outside the houses of the poor. Those nuns were

get stressed about whether everything will

French.

arrive on time.

Mistletoe? Tenbury Wells is famous for it and their sale but the

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tradition of kissing beneath the plant derives from a Norse legend in which the mischievous Loki uses a mistletoe arrow to kill Balder, the god of the sun.

Tinsel? Nope that came from seventeenth-century Europe.

Baubles? The Romans used them to symbolise the earth and the sun. Brussels sprouts? They originated with the Romans, then the Dutch, then an Irish Christmas tradition.

You also get stressed by chasing parcels around, finding “You were out” cards on

the doormat and queueing at the sorting office.

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The roll of wrapping paper sticking out of your shopping bag jabs somebody. They

seem to enjoy it!

Smith. He was inspired by the wrappers around French bonbons!

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Christmas cards were first sent by Sir Henry Cole, head of the

haven’t. You take a well-earned break for a

Hurrah, christmas crackers were invented by someone from the UK shores, a London sweet shop owner by the name of Tom

That feeling of blind panic that you’ve left a shopping bag behind somewhere.

Euphoric wave of relief when you realise you

Victoria and Albert Museum, in 1843, who found himself too

beverage and promptly leave your shopping

busy to write letters. These are slowly being replaced by the

bags in the pub.

email or social media message that no christmas cards are being sent – all money given to charity, although the charities are not so confident. Still they orginally started in the UK. The pudding is also ours, even down to the sixpence at the bottom. In the 14th Century it was a sort of porridge made of mutton,beef, raisins, prunes, spices and wine, and used as a method of preservation. The tradition of the Christmas turkey, or goose, also originated in the UK, so did mince pies, though they were inspired by Middle Eastern recipes picked up by the Crusaders abroad.

So there you have it. Aside from the turkey, mince pies, pudding and cards, Christmas is a largely foreign mélange.

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You get a present professionally giftwrapped in the shop but then can’t

decide if this is coolly classy or a cop-out.

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You buy someone an “experience gift”, then end up resenting them for never

using it.

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You put all your shopping bags into one bag for ease of carrying and choose the

most expensive, swanky-looking one, even though the Argos one is better suited to the task.

Maybe we all should embrace the non-British traditions, german markets and all. After all, could there be a better expression of Britishness?

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

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You vow to keep a receipt, then instantly lose it.

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homestyle

Real or life-like

christmas tree There are a couple of questions in the garden centre that we can really struggle to answer…

G 20

as or Charcoal BBQ – which is best? They’re

tables on which were placed two trees hung with

both great and have their fans and merits.

lights and sugar ornaments with all the presents

Real or Life Like Christmas Tree? This is the

being placed round the trees”. No tricky choices to

other question and just as tricky to answer!

make in her household!

At the age of 13, Queen Victoria wrote about Christmas

So which is best? Well they both have their merits

trees in her 1832 diary “After dinner... we then went

and whilst we sell far more real trees than Life Like

into the drawing-room... There were two large round

we certainly wouldn’t ever be without these incredible

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homestyle

trees as they are becoming more and more popular. The Life Like trees really do live up to their name. Nowadays there’s a mix of materials used on the trees that creates a multi-tone effect, and of course the needles don’t drop! Choosing a real tree is, for some, a great part of the Christmas tradition and this tradition has now extended indoors to the Life Likes; customers have been known to spend an hour or more walking round the display picking out the perfect tree.

Decorating a real tree can, sometimes, be quite tricky as the branches have a habit of being the wrong distance apart or not rigid enough to support some of the more elaborate and heavier decorations. A well-dressed Life Like tree really can look like the real thing and of course once purchased they last for years. So which is best?

Sorry, only you can decide!

www.gardenstoreonline.co.uk ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

1 Keep your real Christmas tree outside for as long as possible to help needle retention.

2 When you bring it inside cut 5cm (2”) off the bottom of the tree to improve water uptake.

3 When inside, keep it away from heat sources and use a stand with a good size water reservoir that allows you to water it regularly.

4 When you choose your tree, real or life like, think about several things... shape and size – too tall and you’ll be squashing it against the ceiling, too wide and it’ll dominate the room. Close branched or spaced – if you love decorating then well-spaced branches are better for you as it allows room for the decorations to shine.

5 Always put the lights on before the decorations and thread them in and out of the tree as well as round and

BY THE GARDEN STORE

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THE GARDEN STORE TIPS

round. This creates a sense of depth and throws light throughout the tree.

COACH HOUSE INTERIORS Coach House Interiors is a three generation family business set in the grounds of Brobury House Gardens, Bredwardine.

They are a soft furnishing and home interiors showroom with on-site workrooms that cater for all of your interior design needs. With their extensive range of stock fabrics and pattern books they are one of the largest stockist in the region.

W

ith a keen eye for detail and

offer a straight supply to a complete

a passion for upholding

measuring, estimating, making and fitting

traditional

techniques,

service, or anything in between! As well

their in house workroom

as Herefordshire and the surrounding

will carry out all aspects of your soft

counties, The Cotswolds and London,

furnishing needs; hand making curtains,

their work has taken them to many areas

roman blinds, loose covers, upholstery,

of the British Isles, Europe and the Middle

pelmets, valances and cushions.

East - No location is too far to travel!

With a combined experience of over

Coach House also holds a diverse range

160 years, Coach House's dedicated and

of wallpaper, poles, lighting and blinds

friendly staff will help you with every

all available to order. They also sell fabric

aspect of your interior design needs,

remnants,

however big or small and provides in

mirrors, pictures, throws, along with the

house and on site consultations.

many sundries you may need.

With a personalised service to suit your

Why not visit us now for a unique range of

individual

Christmas decorations and gifts?

needs,

Coach

House

can

scatter

cushions,

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clocks,

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

Photo credit: Long-tailed tit in the snow - Richard Bowler

i Winter wildlife Robin red-breasts and berry-laden holly may be ubiquitous at this time of year but there’s a lot more wildlife to see – and to support - this Christmas with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.

D

ecember, with its cold dark nights and frosty

The countryside in winter is not left to nature alone – there

mornings, is the perfect time of year to begin

are plenty of outdoor activities to keep us warm. Though

putting food out for the birds if you haven’t

our orchard harvests may be over, now is the time to

done so already. Many small birds can struggle

prune young fruit trees and bottle cider while the New Year

to find food at this time of year and they desperately need

brings the tradition of Wassailing to rid the orchards of bad

to keep eating to generate the energy to stay warm. One

spirits and ensure a fruitful harvest come autumn. Orchard

such bird is the adorable long-tailed tit. These tiny birds

Origins run courses in cider making and pruning over winter

twitter through gardens in small flocks and roost together

while the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust Wassail will be held at

for warmth but weighing less than a £1 coin, they are very

Lower House Farm in Tupsley on 13th January – do join us!

vulnerable at this time of year.

We are also busy hedge-laying over winter; this must be

While we love the bright red, orange and yellow berries

start prospecting for nest sites in the spring. To learn this

decorating evergreen branches to bring inside to adorn

traditional skill, why not sign up for our weekend workshop

our hearths, do remember that they are also a source of

– also an ideal alternative Christmas present!

both food and shelter for birds and mammals – wield the secateurs sparingly! Similarly, leave piles of leaves and logs untouched as, again, these are important shelters and hibernaculums for wildlife such as hedgehogs who stay snuggled in these rustic homes until spring returns.

Though there may be fewer species out and about in December, the bare trees and faded herbage make any wildlife that does brave a cold day much easier to see.

Look out for flocks of fieldfares and redwings feeding on farmland, the darkening grey coats of fallow deer hunkered down in a woodland or a lone fox slinking across a remote windy hillside.

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

completed while the trees are dormant and before birds

Herefordshire Wildlife Trust continues to work hard throughout winter to look after the wildlife and landscapes that make our county so special. If you know someone that loves Herefordshire’s wildlife, why not consider buying them a membership of the Trust this Christmas – and help us to reach our target of 5,000 members, all standing up for wildlife!

All details about gift membership, courses, workshops and events at Herefordshire Wildlife Trust can be found at www.herefordshirewt.org.

Frances Weeks www.herefordshirewt.org

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beautiful

FESTIVE WINTER WONDERS The festive season is just around the corner. Here are a selection of products that are perfect for your Christmas celebrations or as an ideal gift for yourself, friends or family.

MAC

ELEMIS

Radiant skin in a flash, no

Online Exclusive Sweet Orchid Bath &

matter what the lighting

Body Stocking Filler. Hydrates, soothes and

conditions. M·A·C introduces

moisturises. Indulge your body and mind with

extended shades of strobe

the divine scent of orchids, and formulations

cream. Super-powered with

which soften and hydrate the skin.

potent botanicals, antioxidants and iridescent pearl particles, strobe cream de-stresses, desnoozes, hydrates, freshens and boosts the look of dull, tired-looking skin.

£24.50

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

£12.00

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY A luxurious cleansing balm rich in nourishing botanical oils to gently purify the skin whilst nurturing its delicate barrier function.

Includes a 100% cotton muslin cloth to help wipe away impurities.

£30.00

CHANEL

CLARINS

SHAVATA

A mascara that focuses

Festive Make-Up Palette with mineral and plant

Shavata’s Brow

on the essential. Length,

extracts. A sleek eco-designed palette with the

Strengthener is great if

curl, definition, volume

choice of 10 long-lasting eyeshadow shades.

you have over plucked

and care: it provides

The harmonious collection of wearable shades

your eyebrows: it will

just enough coverage to

includes six satin finishes, three matte finishes

stimulate the growth of

intensify the expression of

and one iridescent shade that deliver intense,

hair, nourish and thicken

the eyes and reveal their

luminous results. Create any make-up look this

eyebrows at the same

every dimension.

festive season, from classic chic to smokey sultry.

time. The product comes

£25.00

£35.00

in a tube with a roller ball applicator allowing easy absorption into the skin through massage.

£18.00 @WYEVALLEYNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.WYEVALLEYNOW.co.uk

Stockist Details: MAC - 0870 034 2676 - www.maccosmetics.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www. timetospa.co.uk. Elemental Herbology - www.elementalherbology.com.Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Shavata - www.shavata.co.uk.

beautiful

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BEAUTiful

the office christmas party That combination of colleagues, cocktails, end-of-year stress, your boss… and camera phones. Is there a work event more fraught with peril? Relax, we’re about to make things a little easier for you. Here’s our handy guide on what to wear to a work party – the `’dos’, the `don’ts’ and the `absolutely-avoid-at-all-costs’.

Do... remember you’re still at work

reveal is in inverse proportion to the amount of

This isn’t like other Christmas parties. You’re not

authority you’ll project.

letting loose with friends or family and regardless of how much you enjoy yourself, it’s important to think beyond the event. The image you present to your work colleagues will stick with them, and you don’t want to be the subject of whispered water-cooler conversations for the next 6 months. So how do you tread that fine line between "I’m attractive and sexy" and "Take me seriously, I’m a professional"?

Don’t... reveal too much flesh.

You know that old adage about showing off either cleavage or legs, not both? It’s a good one to bear

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Lace can come to your rescue here. It’s a great way to look elegantly gorgeous while maintaining a professional image. And even better, lace is bang on trend at the moment.

Do... be consistent.

It’s really easy to sabotage your professional credibility by wearing something that’s wildly inconsistent with your everyday work look. Understated elegance will always beat the wacky or the risqué when it comes to work parties.

in mind when choosing a party outfit for your work

Remember, someone is bound to take a photograph.

do. It may sound unfair, but the amount of skin you

If in doubt, go for an outfit that you’re happy to have

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29

BEAUTiful

shared on social media for your boss to see, and your future boss, and the boss after that…

Consistency is key. As a general rule, think about what you’d normally wear to work but with added sparkle and glamour. The easiest way to glam up a daytime work outfit is to accessorise - especially handy if your Christmas party is immediately after work because the new look can fit neatly into your handbag or briefcase.

For example, with a slightly higher heel or elegant stilettos

you transform a work suit into a stunning Ascanaquickly general rule, evening look. And let’s face it, an amazing pair of statement

think about what earrings will have far more impact than a pair of flashing you’d normally wear Christmas trees. to work but with added sparkle and glamour.

amount of make-up. However, if you go overboard with the glam look, your perceived trustworthiness diminishes.

Again, this is a bit depressing. Evidently, books are still judged by their covers, but it’s worth knowing – and it means choosing your work party make-up strategically.

Go for subtly alluring eyes teamed up with your best red

Don’t... go overboard with the make-up A recent Harvard study has revealed that make-up sends a

lipstick. You’ll exude confidence without looking overly made up.

strong signal about your perceived authority. In short, you’ll

A hint of bronzer on the collar bones or shoulders

appear competent and in control when you wear a moderate

is a great way to add subtle illumination – a bit of

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>>

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31

BEAUTiful

glitz and subtle sparkle without exposing too much flesh.

You’ll probably need to refresh your make-up during the party, so pop a mineral foundation into your compact and load up a retractable lip brush with your favourite lipstick.

That way, they’re ready to whip out when you’re feeling a bit sweaty (sorry, glowing a bit too much).

In the end, there’s nothing wrong with being yourself at your Christmas work do. But be yourself within reason. Have fun, let loose, enjoy the party – and look your fabulously confident, professional best.

MORE INFORMATION Lisa Fisher Colour Analyst & Personal Style Consultant T: 07930 544265 E: lisa.fisher@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk/lisafisher

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

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33

FOOD & DRINK Ingredients For the

2 Increase the heat and add the

braised pig cheeks

red wine. Cook until the liquid

B 3 tbsp olive oil

has reduced by half, then add the

B 12 pig cheeks, trimmed B 1 large banana shallot, finely chopped

until the pig cheeks are tender.

3 Remove from the oven and

B 2 celery sticks, finely diced

strain the liquid into a separate

B 1 bouquet garni B 200ml/7fl oz red wine B 400ml/14fl oz veal jus or beef stock B 2 tbsp red wine vinegar B 100g/3½oz unsalted butter, diced For the mashed potato B 1kg/2lb 4oz fluffy potatoes, preferably King Edward, cut

sweet carrots and buttered kale

oven and cook for 2-2½ hours, or

B 1 large carrot, finely chopped B 2 garlic cloves, finely diced

Pig cheeks garlic mashed potato,

veal jus. Transfer the dish to the

into chunks

pot, keep the cheeks warm.

Reduce the sauce by half and then gradually add the diced butter until you have a thick sauce. Put the cheeks in the sauce and warm through.

4 Meanwhile, for the mashed potatoes, put the potatoes in a pan of salted water, bring to the boil. Then simmer for 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return the potatoes to the pan over the heat to remove any excess moisture. Mash well,

B 150g/5½oz unsalted butter

melt the butter and add crushed

B 3 cloves of garlic

garlic, add to the potatoes and

B salt and freshly ground black pepper For the carrots B 12 small carrots, cut in half at an angle

beat to a smooth purée. Season with salt and pepper.

5 For the carrots, put the carrots, butter, sugar and 200ml/7fl oz water in a lidded pan and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook gently

B 75g/2¾oz butter

for 4-5 minutes, or until the

B 2 tbsp caster sugar

carrots are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

For the buttered kale B 50g/1¾oz unsalted butter B Head of kale, leaves removed and roughly chopped Method Pig cheeks are super cheap and when cooked slowly become meltingly tender. Serve them with garlic mashed potato, sweet carrots and buttered kale for a proper winter warmer.

The Swan on the Square, Kington, Herefordshire HR5 3AZ T: 01544 230510 E: ian@theswanonthesquare.co.uk

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

1 Preheat the oven to 150C/130C Fan/Gas 2. Heat a large ovenproof dish on the hob, once hot add the olive oil. Fry the pigs cheeks

6 For the buttered kale, heat the butter in a frying pan. Add the kale leaves and 2 tablespoons of water and cook until wilted.

7 To serve, put a spoonful of the mash potato in a serving bowl, place the pigs cheeks on top and spoon over the sauce. Serve the carrots and kale and alongside.

in batches until they are goldenbrown in colour, set aside. Add the

8 For an added flourish take 3

shallot, carrots, celery and garlic

pigs cheeks, shred with two forks

and cook gently for 3-4 minutes.

and fry in a tablespoon of olive oil

Add the bouquet garni and return

until crispy. Sprinkle on top of the

the pig cheeks to the dish.

mash and braised cheeks.

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35

FOOD & DRINK

saving you money

saving your food W 36

The average family could save £700 a year, simply by throwing away less food. e throw away 7 million tonnes of food

iPhone and Android and allows you to easily keep

and drink every year from home,

track of food planning, shopping, cooking meals and

costing us £12.5bn a year. Find out

making the most of leftovers. The App also has lots

why it's important to reduce food

of great recipe ideas and tips for using forgotten

waste and how to get involved.

foods and leftovers to make great tasting meals.

Download the Love Food

In the UK, we throw away 7m tonnes of food and

Hate Waste app - for free

drink from our homes every year, most of which

The Love Food Hate Waste App has arrived on

could have been eaten if only it was managed better.

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>>

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37

FOOD & DRINK

KNOW YOUR LABELS

DID YOU KNOW? To extend the life of food beyond its date, freeze it before the date and defrost and use within 24 hours.

BEST BEFORE These dates refer to quality rather than food safety.

Foods with a 'best before' date should be safe to eat after the 'best before' date, but they may no longer be at their best.

USE-BY These dates refer to safety. Food can be eaten up to the end of this date but not after even if it looks and smells fine.

Always follow the storage instructions on packs

DISPLAY UNTIL & SELL BY You can ignore these dates as they are for shop staff not for shoppers.

This good food and drink costs us £12.5bn a year.

List: track everything you need for

You can save almost £60 per month by throwing

your planned meals and alerts you if you have

away less food, and help the environment by saving

duplicates of any ingredients

energy, water and reducing harmful gases.

WHAT'S ON THE APP?

B Loads of great recipes with simple step-by-step instructions, with new recipes added all the time

B Discover recipes instantly that you can make with ingredients you already have in your kitchen

B Portion Planner: we can help you calculate how much you need of the most popular foods

B Meal Planner: a diary for planning recipes, meals and leftovers up to 14 days in advance

B My Kitchen: store all the info about what you've got at home in your fridge, cupboard and freezer

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B Shopping

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

B Achievements:

unlock badges and share your

culinary accomplishments with friends & family SAVE TIME & MONEY In the UK, we waste £12.5bn a year on food that we buy and then just throw away without it being eaten!

Something as simple as understanding the difference between a 'use by' date and a 'best before' date will not only help us to save our money but we will be helping to protect the planet too.

For more information visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

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39

WYE VALLEY

N W WOULD LIKE TO WISH OUR READERS

A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

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41

FOOD & DRINK

The Little Bridge Kitchen & Bar The Little Bridge Kitchen & Bar is a new independent restaurant brought to you by

T

the same management as Caffè No.21 based in Ledbury.

he Caffè owner Cindy Thomas was keen to evolve the business "I really wanted to be able to offer a more comprehensive evening style of food after running the successful Supper nights at Caffè

No.21 in Ledbury. Unfortunately as we are on the first floor without our own entrance this became difficult to do on a regular basis. The natural choice was Hereford, being as I live here. I also felt that with the growth of great independent food business in Hereford in the last few years, it seemed the perfect time to add to the independent food market."

The Hereford premises has been refurbished to a high standard in an industrial vintage style. They have a light and spacious dining area for relaxed dining by day and a more formal intimate space for drinking and dining at night. They also have the benefit of an outside terrace for alfresco dining during the warmer months.

They believe in using locally sourced, quality ingredients to freshly prepare their food on site by a highly skilled team. This also enables them to cater for people with dietary requirements.

The style of their food is a mix of Mediterranean and International dishes with a modern twist.

They also take their Italian style coffee very seriously ensuring every cup is expertly made by their trained baristas. They offer award wining Suki teas and a selection of soft drinks.

The bar will also offer a wide selection of world wines, ciders, craft beers, lagers and spirits to accompany your meal!

(Subject to licensing).

Cindy is really pleased to be undertaking this venture with her brother Glen. Glen has been working with Cindy in Ledbury over

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the last 18 months. He has really mastered the art of making amazing coffee! We both look forward to welcoming you at The Little Bridge soon!

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43

KEEPING ACTIVE Start / Finish: The walk starts and ends at the ridge car park near Rushall (see sketch-map). Limited parking for larger groups.

Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station is at Hereford. Please check ‘Traveline’ for bus connections between Hereford and Ross-on-Wye and ask for turning to ‘Sollers Hope’. There is a limited service and it adds 3 miles to total distance. Join circular walk at point 6.

Parking: Limited parking at ‘Marcle Ridge’ Car Park.

O/S Map: Explorer 189. Distance: 5 miles. Shorter 2.5 mile option. Note: If travelling by public transport add another 3 miles.

Time: Allow all day to enjoy this walk by public transport or a morning or afternoon (minimum) if travelling by car.

Refreshments: You will definitely need to take a picnic and water.

Terrain: This walk is undulating with a few moderate climbs. There are gates, kiss-gates and a few steps and stiles so this walk is unsuitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There are a few points along the ridge-top lane which are accessible by car - with views across to The Malvern Hills.

There are some potentially muddy areas so you will need strong waterproof boots and poles. The ridge can be quite exposed in windy weather so wear windproof clothing and avoid high winds. Choose a day with good visibility.

3 At the next large gate, cross the stile on the left and turn left walking due-south towards Hyde Common with Busland Woods on the right. At the corner, enter wood over stile bearing left at first fork. Follow the wide woodland path through this ancient native woodland. Leave the wood at the corner, cross the stile into the open field. Walk diagonally left towards the old sheds passing the Hyde Wood on the right. When you are halfway down the

History: This is an ancient ‘ridgeway’ walk bisected with ‘holloways’

slope, turn southwards to the stile in the centre of the opposite

used by drovers taking livestock to markets at Ledbury, Ross and

boundary. Just inside the wood, known as Hyde Common, rejoin

Hereford in days gone by. Enjoy this delightful rural walk but ensure

the old drove-road. The track curves round and drops down

that you have adequate clothing and refreshments and set out

to Hyde Farm. Turn sharp left along ‘Three Choirs Way’ passing

early on shorter winter days. This is a good ‘Winter Wellies Walk’.

limestone cliff on the left. (Note: the shorter route turns left at

1 The walk starts in limestone quarry and goes uphill to junction

barn, via ford, then up steep hillside onto Marcle Ridge at point 9).

on ridge. Walk due-north along lane towards Hooper’s Oak. There

The main walk turns right at the Barn, over the stile, straight down

are views towards Malvern Hills on a clear day. The walk can be

the hillside over three stiles and through the tiny paddock to a

extended at this point along old by-way north of Hooper’s Oak.

small footbridge. Climb up the bank to the stile out onto the track.

2 At Hooper’s Oak turn left (due-west) opposite the junction, down

4 Turn right and follow the track round the curve to a gate, down

a narrow sloping path that has been used for centuries by people

lovely the avenue of trees and over the stile onto the lane where

walking to and from Woolhope. Go through the large farm gate and

you turn left. Turn left again past Sapness House. Just beyond is

continue down-hill with the hedge on the right. The TV mast on the left

the track, go back on yourself to the right.

is a landmark, particularly at night, when its red light can be seen from

5 Follow the surfaced track for 3/4 mile with the mast up on the left.

miles around. At the foot of the slope is an ancient Oak. As you climb the slope, go through the large metal gate where the path steepens briefly to the old hedge which you follow uphill. Keep climbing up ancient drove road, with its hedgerow punctuated with mature trees.

6 Turn left and climb gently up the hillside (hedge on the right) to a stile at top that leads onto ancient drove road from ‘Sollers Hope’. Go through the wooden gate and via ‘holloway’, over the brow of the hill to ‘crossroads’.

7 Turn left along ‘Ridge Hill’, up the steps and through the wooden kiss-gate to ‘top’. Bear left with the hedge on the left. On a clear day there are extensive views eastwards. Walk along the ridge to ‘Firs Farm’ where a 540’ UHF mast, supported by 12 steel cables, has been transmitting signals since 30th July 1968.

8 Walk northwards with ‘Hoar Wood’ on the left, passing the highest point at 758’. Notice the view-point facing west. Continue for another ½ mile to where short walk joins.

9 Continue downhill, following the route as it curves right round to lane.

10 Find a small gap in the corner of the last field. Cross the stile and walk down the steps onto the lane. Take care as you join the lane. Retrace your steps back to the car.

Written and Illustrated by Glynis Dray

Walking Along Marcle Ridge 44

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

fishmore hall, ludlow Fishmore Hall has announced the official opening of their new rural spa, nestled in the gardens of the hotel and overlooking the rolling Shropshire countryside and the Clee Hills.

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he sleek urban design is clad with Siberian larch wood

The four treatment rooms offer natural daylight, whilst still being

and over time this will blend sympathetically with the

private and tranquil. With six facials on offer ranging from £65 -

surrounding countryside. The spa offers guests the highest

£75 per treatment, spa lovers are spoilt for choice. There are also

standard of spa and wellbeing treatments by ELEMIS, along

a number of specialist pregnancy treatments and dedicated men's

with a place to rebalance and refresh both body and mind.

treatments available, as well as specialised Biotec treatments. The Biotec system is scientifically designed to increase cell energy for

The spa boasts four treatment rooms, which combine to create

optimum skincare function. This pioneering skincare system visibly

two couples rooms, a steam room and sauna, as well as an

re-energises the complexion and enhances visual skincare health.

outdoor Cedar wellness pool and oversized hammock on the decking, both overlooking the fields and the Shropshire hills.

There is ample relaxation space and the outdoor bucket and monsoon drench shower provides a refreshing and revitalising experience. Spa goers can retreat to the relaxing lounge area which is designed in soothing neutral shades and decorated with

Fishmore Hall have selected Lava Shell Relax Thermal Massage as one of their signature treatments. They are the world’s first selfheating massage tool and the patented, natural, biodegradable heat technology provides a continuous and seamless body massage.

lanterns and candles to enjoy a refreshing smoothie, a glass of

The spa is open every day* from 10am and closes at 8pm Monday

Champagne or a sorbet infused with garden grown herbs from

to Friday and 6.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays. *excludes

the grounds of Fishmore.

Christmas Day

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45

LIVING HISTORY

Reliquary containing Kemble's left hand, St Francis Xavier Church, Hereford

Stained glass image of Kemble at Harvington Hall, licensed for reuse. Image Copyright Tiger. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic Licence. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, 171 Second Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, California, 94105, USA.

St John Kemble: hanged in Hereford John Kemble was a well respected Catholic priest of The Marches.

K

He was hanged in August 1679, becoming a martyr at the age of 80. emble was born in 1599 at St Weonards, about 10

On the 4th August 1679 he was returned to Hereford

miles south of Hereford. He was a Catholic, and

where he was indicted for saying the mass, and although

studied for the priesthood in Douai in northern

there was not a shred of evidence to show that he was

France. Once he was ordained in 1625 he

returned to England, and ministered to a scattered flock of recusants in Herefordshire and Monmouthshire from his base at Pembridge Castle. He continued his work as a priest for over fifty years and was very highly regarded, even by Protestants.

guilty of treason, he was tragically condemned to death.

During his last days he became friendly with the governor of Hereford prison. On the evening of 22nd August, after sharing a farewell cup and pipe with his guards, he was dragged on a hurdle to Widemarsh Common. His

However by 1678 there were anti-Catholic feelings

hangman was clearly distressed and reluctant to carry

surging through the country. This was due to a supposed

out the task, but Kemble consoled him, encouraging him

conspiracy, which alleged that Catholics were plotting to

not to be afraid, and to go ahead and do his duty. The

overthrow the Anglican King Charles II and replace him

execution did not go well, and Kemble had to endure half

with his brother James, who was a Catholic. John Kemble

an hour of hanging on the gibbet before a silent crowd. He

was arrested at Pembridge Castle in December 1678. He

was then cut down and decapitated - it is thought he may

was committed to Hereford gaol, and kept there until the Spring Assizes of 1979. In April he was ordered to London by the House of Lords. At the age of 80 Kemble was too frail to be able to ride to London, and so he had to be strapped to his horse (it was no better on the return journey as he was forced to walk the full 135 miles back).

have been spared the indignity of drawing and quartering.

Kemble was buried at Welsh Newton in Herefordshire, and local Catholics still make a yearly pilgrimage to his grave in August. He was beatified in 1929, and canonised

by Pope Paul VI in 1970. One of St John Kemble's hands was preserved, and this can still be seen today in a shrine

On arrival in London, Kemble was interrogated and

inside the church of St Francis Xavier in Broad Street,

accused of being part of the 'Popish Plot' against

Hereford.

Charles II. This was despite the fact that his nephew had previously saved the King's life at the battle of Worcester.

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

BY Grace Anderson

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47

golden years

NO-ONE SHOULD BE ALONE THIS FESTIVE SEASON Christmas is often a time when we think of togetherness when families and friends come together. So imagine spending Christmas Day completely alone, unable to leave the house and with nothing but your television for company. It’s a depressing thought, but it’s also the reality for thousands of older people across Britain. Remember the wellbeing of older people during this festive period is really important.

L

oneliness is difficult at any time of the year, but the

proud and tend not to ask for help. There is something

festive season can be especially so as all we see

that everyone can do to help overcome loneliness and

around us are images of people having a wonderful

help make the festive season something to look forward

time with their loved ones. Loneliness is also a

to for our older relatives, friends and neighbours.

serious health hazard, closely linked to depression, selfneglect and mental illness.

build up to Christmas can be overwhelming.

Offering to lend a hand addressing Christmas cards,

Research carried out by Age UK shows that as many as

writing letters or emails to friends and family is a great

60 per cent, or six million of the UK’s over 65's say they

way to help older people remain in contact with those

are not looking forward to the festive season, for them it is an unhappy time of the year and they feel more lonely

who live away.

B Lending a hand with Christmas shopping by running

In addition older people worry about the

errands or taking people out to do some Christmas

winter months, not being able to get out and about as

shopping themselves, provides the opportunity to

than ever.

much because of shorter, darker days and poor weather conditions. Many older people go for over a month without

48

B The

enjoy the festive atmosphere.

B Whilst loneliness is one of the biggest issues for older

speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.

people year round, Christmas provides opportunities

People can become socially isolated for a variety of reasons,

company, including them in anything from family meals

such as getting older or having decreased mobility, no

and get-togethers, to quieter times such as watching a

longer being the hub of their family, leaving the workplace,

Christmas film or sharing a cup of tea and a mince pie.

the deaths of spouses and friends, or through disability

B Playing a favourite game or spending time together

or illness. Whatever the cause, it’s shockingly easy to be

cooking a special meal can foster a sense of wellbeing.

left feeling alone and vulnerable. Someone who is lonely

Baking mince pies or treats can be as much fun as

probably also finds it hard to reach out, older people are

eating them afterward.

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

to ensure our older relatives and friends have plenty of

>>

B Attending a carol concert or choral event, a pantomime or school play, or simply listening to Christmas songs and tunes can help to lift spirits.

B There is something magical about driving through the area you live, your local town or city after dark to see the Christmas lights. It’s a great way to promote holiday cheer.

B Sharing

past memories and looking at old photographs

demonstrates your interest in who they are and the life they have lived.

B Strolling around the neighbourhood is a good way to keep the blues away if the older person is able and the weather permits.

B Find out what events and activities are being held in your community and tell your relatives, friends and neighbours about them.

B Pop in for a cup of tea and chat or give them a regular call on the phone.

B Lend a hand when the colder weather hits, clearing paths and helping to put out wheelie bins.

B Make sure they have enough food and medication to last through the holiday period.

B Ensure that older people are warm and safe at home.

Keep them informed about any seasonal scams that could be

targeting older people.

B Find out about volunteering opportunities in your area during the festive period such as helping at a lunch event or providing transport.

Many of the places older people usually go for company may well be closed over Christmas. By paying a visit or offering an invitation you could be the friendly face that brings comfort and joy to a lonely older person this Christmas and throughout the year.

The most precious gift you can give is your time, it doesn’t cost anything but could mean the world of difference to someone who is feeling lonely and isolated. Please remember loneliness doesn’t just happen at Christmas, older people need support and companionship throughout the year so please think about your New Year’s resolution – could you spare a little time on a regular basis?

To find out more about HOW you can support older people and volunteering opportunities with Age UK Hereford & Localities, please contact us on: Tel: 0333 0066 299 or Email: contact@ageukhl.org Registered Charity Number: 1093512

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49

golden years

MOBILITY 4 u Now in Ledbury, Mobility 4U, located in Bank Crescent is a family run business. They have just moved from Taunton in Somerset, where they were for 8 years.

M

ike Talley, the owner provides a friendly service on a wide range of mobility aids for the home and

where they come to measure so therefore there is no high

outside. Mobility 4U stocks new and used mobility

pressure from a salesman.

scooters, wheel chairs and walking aids. Aids for the

bathroom, kitchen and for the living room, in fact in all areas in

They pride themselves on keeping prices competitive but at the

your life.

same time ensuring their service is dedicated to giving good

Their new mobility scooters from One Rehab, Roma Shoprider,

or a scooter.

back up all on of your purchases whether it be a walking stick

Drive Medical, Kymco Sunrise, Medical Pride, Medical TGA start from £690 and their wheel chairs from Z Tec Drive Medical Karma Mobility start from £199. The household aids they stock are from Able 2 and NRS and walking aids start from £99 for three wheels without seat and four wheels with seat.

They also sell riser recliner chairs starting from £590, adjustable beds mainly from the Restwell Range and also Brooks Stairlifts,

50

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

MORE INFORMATION 4 Bank Crescent, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1AA T:01531 249108 E: miketalley@yahoo.com www.mobility-4-u.com

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51

EDUCATION

A GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS Get your career started. Find out what it’s really like to be an apprentice – the opportunities, the benefits of earning now and just how far an apprenticeship can take you in the future.

T

here has never been a

hours per week and an apprenticeship

employer and your colleagues and

better time to consider

takes between one and five years* to

you’ll be working as part of a team.

an apprenticeship. Young

complete, depending upon the level of

people can ‘get in and go

apprenticeship and the industry sector.

Many

Most of the training is delivered in

outstanding facilities for their staff.

the workplace, so you will learn the

These include sporting and social

skills you need to do the job well.

activities and a range of other

The rest of the training is given by

opportunities.

level, while working and earning.

a training organisation, either at

finding out about these benefits from

the workplace, off-site (perhaps at

an employer at your interview or once

AppreNticeships – the FActs

college) or via e-learning.

you’ve started your apprenticeship.

The training is specifically tailored

Every

to ensure you develop the skills the

different, but you can expect your

employer wants, giving apprentices

working day to be varied, stimulating

a real advantage in the workplace.

and challenging. You will be learning

This means that apprentices not

new skills and meeting new people

only have better long term salary

in a new environment and you may

far’ with an apprenticeship at some of Britain’s biggest and brightest companies.

they

can

gain

the

skills and knowledge they need to succeed, in some cases up to degree

If you live in England and are over 16 you can apply for an apprenticeship.

There

are

various

levels

of

apprenticeship you can undertake depending on your current skills and

qualifications:

Intermediate

apprenticeship (level 2); Advanced apprenticeship

(level

3);

Higher

apprenticeship (levels 4-7); Degree apprenticeship (levels 6-7)

but

they

also

have

excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or

apprentices

have

It’s

that a

employ

range

always

apprenticeship

of

worth

role

is

be working with colleagues or the general public for the first time. You will also be getting used to working

climb the ranks within the workplace.

for your employer, which can be a

the LiFe oF AN AppreNtice

school or college. But whatever

An apprenticeship isn’t like going to

your role you know that everybody

college or university. As an apprentice

is working towards the same goal –

employers pay significantly more.

you will be doing a real job in a real

your success and the success of the

workplace – and getting paid for it.

business you are working in.

Apprentices should work for at least 30

You will have responsibilities to your

All apprenticeships are real jobs so all apprentices earn a salary. You must be paid at least the national minimum apprenticeship wage – and many

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prospects,

companies

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

very different environment from

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53

Choosing the right

school for your child Choosing the right school for your child may seem to be a daunting prospect but, in reality, it isn’t!

We have all been through the process of choosing a house – that felt daunting enough,

E

but once you crossed the threshold you just knew if it was the ‘right one’.

xactly the same is true of choosing schools. It is that

that Bedstone has to offer through generous financial support.

moment when you cross the threshold, see the children,

Bedstone is a leading independent boarding and day school

talk to the staff, that you feel the heartbeat of the school.

with a strong family atmosphere and an enviable reputation for

You will know instantly whether your child is going to be

academic, sporting and cultural achievements.

happy and thrive in that atmosphere.

If you would like to consider a scholarship for your family then

It is important to remember that not every child is an A* pupil,

make an appointment to visit the College and confirm that our

but that every child has the capacity to excel at some aspect of

“heartbeat” is right for your family. To find out more about our

life. It is for the school to find that area of excellence and help

scholarships, or to book a visit, contact our admissions department

each child fulfil their potential wherever that potential may lie.

and either Michael Symonds or Beckie Broadbent will be delighted

Our Scholarships allow those with talent in particular areas to have that talent recognised and to be encouraged to enjoy all

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

to help you. We look forward to meeting you. www.bedstone.org

Olympian Inspires Students

to Chase their Dreams Hereford Sixth Form College was delighted to welcome Olympic Silver Medallist, Ruaridh McConnochie recently.

R

uaridh, part of Team

a chance to take a look at the

GB Rugby 7s squad

Olympic Silver Medal.

at

Later he led a training session

Rio,

delivered

a

fascinating talk to the

with

the

College’s

Rugby

He

Academy, in particular, working

touched on how he got into the

with the Backs on their passing

sport, the training, nutrition,

and handling skills. This was

competition, drug testing and

followed

travelling.

session.

Ruaridh’s anecdotes from Rio

Andy Douthwaite, Head of PE,

held everyone in awe and really

said “It is always a pleasure

College’s

Elite

Athletes.

helped paint a picture of life at

by

a

lively

Q&A

to welcome elite athletes

an Olympic games.

into the Department as their

Ruaridh was extremely generous

see that anything is possible if

with his time and students were

they are prepared to strive for

given a photo opportunity and

their dreams.’’

journey allows our students to

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55

EDUCATION

90% A* to C plus 100%

pass in separate sciences 90% of Year 11 at Lucton School achieved 5 A* to C grades. This maintains an average in excess of 90% over the last three years and again Lucton’s top students achieved A* grades in more than half of their exams.

L

ucton’s Headmistress, Mrs Gill Thorne, is delighted by the

to enable every pupil to achieve their full potential.

results. “Being a mixed ability school, we are used to variable results, but any school would be proud of

A level pupils at Lucton School also celebrated another year of

these grades. Again, I am particularly pleased with

excellent exam results and Head of Sixth Form, John Goode,

Lucton’s performance in the sciences. We have a 100%

praised his pupils’ success, saying, “I am absolutely delighted.

pass rate in the separate sciences (Physics, Chemistry

Our pupils have worked so hard and now look forward

and Biology). These are subjects that universities value particularly highly and the statistics are quite remarkable.”

confidently to continuing in their chosen fields of study.”

Josh Gladwin and Aidan Berry led the way with A*AAA and

Lucton School’s GCSE pupils have also achieved excellent value-

A*A*A, and Josh will now go on to Bristol to read Aeronautical

added scores, with pupils lifting on average, one grade per

Engineering. Aidan is taking a year out before taking up a place to

subject. The results of this cohort fully endorse Lucton’s ambition

read medicine in 2017.

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

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57

EDUCATION

A Spectacular Spooktacular Fright Night At Moor Park is becoming something of a tradition.

This year saw the termly 'Big Weekend' turn dark and creepy...

F

right Night at Moor Park was truly spooktacular this year.

Having been suitably warmed up by the movie the older children

88 children spent Saturday night dressed as ghosts, ghouls

were taken to the cellar to listen to a ghosty tale before venturing

and hideous creatures in order to ‘enjoy’ an evening of

to the trail of terror - through the Moor Park grounds and by the

screams and scares.

lake...The noisy brave children were soon clinging to each other

The catering team started the night with an awesome supper of bats wings, finger rolls, slime soup, nauseous nachos and body part jelly. The dining rooms were decorated with amazing carved pumpkins and had been turned into a lair fit for any witch

and had gone strangely quiet. Then the first zombie appeared and it turns out that 13 year old boys have very high pitched screams when they are scared. The evening was rounded off by hot chocolate and a disco.

or warlock. Whilst the Year 7s and 8s watched a creepy ghost

Boarding is a fantastic way for children to join together, become a

movie the Year 5s and 6s played traditional halloween party

team and have a lot of fun. The boarding team at Moor Park put a

games before their turn to head to the woods. The ghost walk

huge amount of effort into these Big Weekends, which have been

was a series of scares, stories and exhibitions. Not wanting to

shortlisted for the TES Boarding initiative of the Year. Other Big

spoil anything for future participants we cannot reveal too much,

Weekends have included Nerf Warfare and Great Moor Park Bake

but suffice to say that the lady of the lake, the chainsaw wielding

Off. If you would like to try out boarding at Moor Park, there is a

zombie and a few spectacularly creepy stories were just a few

free trial boarding night scheduled for anyone who would like to

things that turn even the most tough child to jelly. The screams

give it a go on Wednesday 8th February. For further information

could be heard miles away!

please contact Simon Gedye on sdg@moorpark.org.uk.

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Why Robert

Owen Academy?

Robert Owen Academy provides the Marches region’s 14–19 year old students with a real choice in education.

W

e pride ourselves

success in academic progress.

with supporting academic studies

Our

with work based

highly

experienced

qualified

and

staff

are

applications of knowledge in

committed to success for all our

real life scenarios via work

students. Our aim is to increase

placements and activity based teaching.

our

students’

confidence,

their skills and to give them

We challenge our students with

experience in preparing for

all aspects of their personal

work or their next steps into

and academic development.

higher education.

A positive attitude to learning through practical and analytical

We believe in 14-19 education

skills are a key focus to real

as a package.

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59

COMPETITION

WIN A LUXURY SPA DAY FOR

TWO AT THE MALVERN VIEW SPA The exclusive Malvern View Spa at the Bank House Hotel is an oasis of relaxation and indulgence that offers members and day spa guests award-winning Temple Spa treatments and superb facilities in a stunning

S

setting with landscaped gardens and panoramic views of the beautiful Malvern Hills.

eeking rest and relaxation? You’ll will be spoilt

Just want to indulge? Pamper essentials such as

for choice with a 10m Indoor Swimming Pool

Champagne Nail Bar and Deluxe Pedicure Station, Spa

and Panoramic Sun Terrace, Thermal Suite

Café serving delicious snacks and beverages and a fully

(featuring a Jacuzzi, Sauna, Steam Room and

stocked Temple Spa Boutique ensure the Malvern View

Experience Shower) and luxurious Treatment Rooms

Spa at the Bank House Hotel has everything you need

with highly trained Temple Spa therapists offering a range

for an exceptional and unforgettable Spa experience.

of indulgent treatments.

Need to look your best for a special night out? For instant and visible results try the brand new Red Carpet Miracle

Facial. With super advanced skin-lifting and muscleenergising massage techniques combined with dynamic glycolic resurfacing, this facial will leave you with a radiant glow and the sculpted firmness of youthful skin.

a week, an exclusive and strictly limited Membership is now available. Enjoy access to all facilities, including the Thermal Therapy Suite, Swimming Pool and Gymnasium, plus discounts off spa treatments, food and drink, and member-only events.

For more information on Membership, Spa

Feeling energetic? There is a state-of-the-art Fitness

Days and Fitness Breaks at The Malvern

Studio with Personal Training available, and unique

View Spa at the Bank House Hotel

Fitness & Wellness Breaks to kick-start your New Year

visit bankhouseworcester.com

fitness routine.

or call 01886 834834.

Competition For your chance to win a spa day for two including lunch and a Red Carpet Miracle Facial each, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

What is the name of the brand new treatment at the Malvern View Spa? Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Malvern View Spa WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE Closing date for VALLEY entries is 18th January 2017.

WYE Now

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If you want to enjoy the luxurious Malvern View Spa 7 days

DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from the Malvern View Spa please tick this box

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61

COMPETITION

Win a pair of Chase Distillery tour tickets and a magnum of Chase Vodka Chase Distillery is Britain’s first Single-Estate distillery. The team at Chase grow their own potatoes and apples, then hand make all of their products on the family owned farm in Herefordshire.

A

s you can imagine, this takes time and effort.

of premium Chase spirits. Your expert guide will show

But quality doesn’t happen by chance. Chase

you everything from their traditional mashing, fermenting

Vodka has won awards for being among the

and distilling processes, to their bottling line, where every

best in the world- and it’s this quality spirit that

bottle is still filled and sealed by hand. You will even be

they redistill with carefully chosen wild botanicals to make

able to step outside the front door onto their rolling potato

their unique range of gins.

fields and cider apple orchards to see the raw ingredients

You can taste the care they put into every drop of the spirits they produce.

Chase are now offering exclusive tours around their distillery, just four miles out of Hereford. This unique tour and tasting experience will unlock some of the secrets and skills that go into creating the award-winning range

Competition For your chance to win a pair of tour tickets and a magnum of Chase Vodka, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

that go into making each of their spirits.

After the tour you can head back to the Chase Bar to enjoy a tutored tasting of their range of award-winning products, and if there’s something that takes your fancy, you can pick up a bottle at their Boutique Distillery Shop. ww.chasedistillery.co.uk

Answer: Name:

Address:

What county is Chase Distillery located in?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Chase Distillery WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is THREE 18th January 2017.

ISSUE SIXTY

62

¯ WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Tel: Email:

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

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63

OUR EVENTS DIARY

DECEMBER Thursday 1st Festive Shopping Evening Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, Queenswood Country Park, Dinmore Hill, Leominster, HR6 0PY 01432 530088 Cost: Free Thursday 1st – Friday 16th Find Father Christmas Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Soudley, Forest of Dean, GL14 2UB 01594 822170 Cost: Tickets vary Thursday 1st – Friday 23rd The Polar Express Experience Maylord Shopping Centre, Hereford, HR1 2DT 01432 278 083 Cost: £5 Thursday 1st – Saturday 31st Community Exhibition Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Soudley, Forest of Dean, GL14 2UB 01594 822170 Cost: Tickets vary Friday 2nd- Sunday 4th 8th Annual Magical Christmas Fair Hampton Court Estate, Hope-UnderDinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676 Cost: £3.50/£1.50 Saturday 3rd Christmas Sparkle Hereford Cathedral, 5 College Cloisters, Cathedral Close, Hereford, HR1 2NG 01432 374202 Cost: Free

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Kington Festive Food Fair Kington Town Centre 01544 231202 Cost: Free Ludlow Orchestra Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 1 Mill St Ludlow, SY8 1AZ 01584 878141 Cost: Tickets vary Saturday 3rd - Sunday 18th Guild of Craftsmen Christmas Show Market House, Ledbury www.herefordcraftguild.org.uk Cost: Free Thursday 8th Candlelight Cinema Presents – Finding Joe The Globe, Newport Street, Hay on Wye, HR3 5BG 01497 821762 Cost: £5 Saturday 10th Christmas Decorations Workshop The Scout Hut, Blackmarston Road, Hunderton, Hereford, HR2 7AL 01432 356 872 Cost: Free Leominster Victorian Market Corn Square, Leominster 01568 616 460 Cost: Free Sunday 11th Light up a Life Hereford Cathedral, HR1 2NG 01432 851 000 Cost: Free Tuesday 13th HDFA Lecture by Sylvia

Pinches on: David Garrick, Man of Theatre, Man of Taste The Green Dragon Hotel, Broad Street 01568 797703 Cost: £8 Thursday 15th Festive Shopping Evening Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, Queenswood Country Park, Dinmore Hill, Leominster, HR6 0PY 01432 530088 Cost: Free Friday 16th – Saturday 17th Christmas Fair Hereford Cathedral, 5 College Cloisters, Cathedral Close, HR1 2NG 01432 374202 Cost: Free Saturday 17th – Saturday 24th Father Christmas Back from the Past Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill Soudley, Gloucestershire, GL14 2UB 01594 822170 Cost: Tickets vary

JANUARY Sunday 1st – Saturday 7th Aladdin – Pantomime Courtyard Theatre, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555 Cost: £10 Saturday 7th- Sunday 8th Weekend Hedge Laying Workshop Lower House Farm, Ledbury Road Tupsley, Hereford, HR1 1UT www.herefordshirewt.org Cost: £70

>>

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65

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Tuesday 10th HDFA lecture by Maureen Schild on: Discovering James Ensor: The Artist Behind the Masks The Green Dragon Hotel, Broad Street, Hereford 01568797703 Cost: £8

01432 356872 Cost: Free

Friday 13th Herefordshire Wildlife Trust Wassail Lower House Farm, Ledbury Road, Tupsley, Hereford, HR1 1UT

Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th Dee Hardwicke Residential Knitting Workshop Brockhampton Estate Brockhampton Park,

Saturday 14th Cider Making Course Lower House Farm, Ledbury Road Tupsley, Hereford, HR1 1UT 01432 356872 Cost: £60

WYE VALLEY

N W WOULD LIKE TO WISH OUR READERS

A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR 66

ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17

Bringsty, WR6 5TB 01885 482077 Cost: £22.00 Wednesday 25th Open Rehersal at Got to Sing Hereford adult choir The Kindle Centre Belmont Road, Hereford, HR2 7JE 07929853807 Cost: Free

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ISSUE SIXTY¯THREE WYE VALLEY Now DEC ´16 ¯ JAN ´17