Wye Valley & The Marches NOW - February 2016

WYE VALLEY

N W FEBRUARY 2016

issue FIFTY THREE

Get yourself

au fait with a Santa Fe See page ELEVEN for more information

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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

ADVERTISE

Suzie Scott

Tel: 01905 727906 suzie@pw-media.co.uk Genna McCann-Taylor

When reshuffling, analyse what you use most often and envisage a space for it. Is it already in the perfect space, or could it be located elsewhere?

Tel: 01905 727901 genna@pw-media.co.uk

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

Amy Thomas

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Charles McQuaid gives us some tips on how to create more storage in the home

CONTRIBUTORS

Glynis Dray

Michele Ford Charles McQuaid Christopher Strong Frances Weeks

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COMPETITION WINNERS Beauty and The Beast Pantomime K. Connor, Hereford J. Newall, Hereford Alexander Park I. Robertson, Ludlow ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or

FEBRUARY GARDENING NOTES

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Bavaria, the perfect mini break

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 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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Pooling together by HWT

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CONTENTS

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42

spoil your loved one

HEREFORD CITY Walk

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Tudge Farm pork chop with caramel apple puree by The Charlton Arms

FEBRUARY 2016

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE

46

Money matters by Age UK Hereford & Localities

COULD TEACHING BE FOR you

WHAT’S ON NOW

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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Win a luxury night for two at The Wood Norton Hotel

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homestyle

When reshuffling, analyse what you use most often and envisage a space for it. Is it already in the perfect space, or could it be located elsewhere?

STORAGE

in THE HOME

You don't have to make cupboards and other

General tips

storage spaces bigger to make them better.

At the end of December it’s easy to have more

A little planning and a wide variety of affordable, easy-to-install products can put every square inch of space to work throughout your house.

of everything than when the month began.

Whether it is toys in the bedroom, food in the kitchen or toiletries in the bathroom, space can start to be the only thing you run out of! Some sensible storage modifications can help you keep organised and relaxed.

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homestyle

Make the most of the space under your bed. Storage beds are perfect for keeping things out of sight. Ivy Short Storage Bed, £749.00. www.livingitup.co.uk

Before going through some specific

is unused space. When reshuffling,

found in local shops and department

ideas

the

analyse what you use most often

stores. Use accessories for uses

following general ideas are a good

for

individual

rooms,

and envisage a space for it. Is it

other than their advertised purpose;

starting point. Keep these in mind

already in the perfect space, or

use the tie rack to hang pendants or

as they can be used throughout your

could it be located elsewhere? If it

even belts!

home. One key word with innovative

can, then think of how it should be

storage is versatility.

stored. You will surprise yourself in

Run through some of the furniture in your house, there is a good chance

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Knox Natural Oak Open Shelf Unit, £399.99. www.dunelm.com

how innovative you can be! Tackle each room one by one.

Shoes at the bottom of the wardrobe can easily become a disorderly mess, using hanging boot and bag racks can save space and help organise.

that the majority of them have just

Bedroom

If you can’t find them locally, linen

a single purpose, some of them

Clothes draped over doors and

hangers or trouser hangers that

take up a lot of space and don’t get

furniture, children's toys in odd

used on a regular basis. Consider

use clips can work as well. Simply

places and general clutter can lead

re purposing these items to give

the bedroom into a bit of a jumble.

clip them on the boots and hang

them more than one use. Investing

With some careful planning and

in multi purpose furniture can free

clever storage it can be transformed

up room and help organise your

into a tidy delight. A wardrobe can

home. Another key word is height.

be fitted with accessories to keep

In tall cupboards fill the extra height

it clutter free and give extra room.

It is far too easy to throw hair pins or

with mini shelves, in tall rooms don’t

An easy modification example is a

tweezers into a cluttered pile next

be afraid to use the entire height of

slide out tie rack. This simple gadget

to your make up bag. Outwit your

the wall with shelves, empty space

takes up no extra space and can be

laziness with a magnetic strip that

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

up! Making your own hanging rail at a lower level is easy using a spring loaded hanging rail and is perfect for hanging the boots.

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homestyle

Make use of empty voids by using storage units on wheels. Space Genie, £10.27. www.houseofbath.co.uk

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Bathroom shelving units help store towels and products away.

Storage Ladder, £80, Shelving Unit, £60. www.bhs.co.uk

catches these tiny items alongside

your advantage by flipping them.

vertically

nail clippers and other small metal

Inverted brackets can look great and

Specifically

tools that may lurk at the bottom of

help keep loose items, like a pile of

choosing to install a vertical pull out

your handbag.

hand towels, under control.

shelving unit will create a striking

Bathroom

Kitchen

A simple hook that can be easily

Chopping

screwed underneath an existing shelf

homework. Washing dishes. The

can be a perfect place to hang towels,

heart of the home is often the heart

shower gel and all sorts of grooming

of the action. If you want to have

tools that conveniently already have

enough space for, 'Tell me about your

a short rope on the end. Keeping

day' time, it helps to be organised. If

on the hook theme, a set of three

you are feeling brave you can do a bit

hanging baskets work exceptionally

of simple DIY and turn a magazine

well in the bathroom as the loads

rack into a storage space for your

Although a common concern in

are not usually heavy. These can be

cutting boards by coupling it with

the home, storage problems can

found in local gardening and home

the inside of your cupboard. If this is

be conquered

ware stores and work well by utilising

too adventurous, ‘mini shelves’ make

methods. With some inspiration

unused space. If you want to further

use of that empty void found after

from this article and a bit of creative

increase storage, add another set!

storing food in tall cupboards.

fizz, you can transform those boring

If you’re looking to install an extra

With all rooms it is important to

shelf you can use bulky brackets to

remember to go high! Thinking

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

saves within

floor

space.

the

kitchen,

and very useful unit. This can solve carrots.

Helping

with

several problems: it makes use of narrow spaces, makes finding pantry items easier and reduces the chances of buying the same spice that was hiding at the back of your cupboard over and over again! Ask your local kitchen supplier about built in pantry shelving.

using uncommon

boxes into supreme storage!

By Charles McQuaid

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HOMESTYLE

NEW LAWS ON MICROCHIPPING Ahead of new dog legislation coming into effect in 2016, new research by Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest canine welfare charity, reveals a quarter of the public find it difficult to keep up to speed with current legislation with one in five owners still unprepared for the impending legal change.

R

esearch was commissioned to shine a light on gaps in our collective knowledge ahead of the new English, Welsh and Scottish microchipping law. From 6th April, dog owners must have their

pets chipped and ensure registered address details are kept up to date; owners who do not microchip their dogs

8 Compulsory child-free areas in restaurants, hotels, bars and other eating establishments 9 A four day working week 10 Responsible social media management to be taught as part of the national curriculum

within 21 days of being served notice will be liable to pay

Comparing the data reveals double the amount of men

a fine of up to £500.

than women would support a ban on cars in city centres

Despite the forthcoming legal change in microchipping, official figures highlight that a fifth of owners still have yet to microchip their dogs. Accompanying research by the charity also found that almost half of owners had not chipped their dogs either because they didn’t know how or where to do so, or simply did not know they had to.

to reduce congestion. One in ten in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, say they would also support a move to introduce congestion charges like those in London – double the amount that said the same in Glasgow.

Women were bigger supporters of adding animal care to the national curriculum with three in ten supporting

The research also looks more broadly at the laws the

a move compared with just less than one in five men.

public most want to see, with a ban on loud music on

However, both were in agreement about adding social

public transport and fireworks prohibited outside of 5th

media management to compulsory school classes voting

November to reduce distress to animals as the two most

it the tenth most popular would-be legislation overall.

requested pieces of new legislation.

The findings also fittingly reveal the impact the recent festive season has had on many; over a third would vote in favour of a ban on Christmas songs and adverts before 1st December.

shows, it can be hard to keep track of new and upcoming laws with nearly a quarter of people admitting that they find it confusing. Fortunately, there are a number of ways for the public to find out

Top 10 most wanted laws

all the information they need on microchipping and

1 Ban on playing loud music on public transport

updating a dog’s chip details has never been easier;

2 Firework displays only allowed on 5th November to

you can do it online, by telephone or by post.

reduce animal distress 3 Ban on putting feet/shoes on seats of public transport

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Adrian Burder, CEO of Dogs Trust says, “As our research

Microchipping and updating dogs’ microchips with the

4 60 days for consumers to return items for a full refund

correct details will be compulsory in England Scotland and

5 Check out from a hotel to be no earlier than 12pm

Wales from 6th April 2016. To find out more information on

6 No Christmas songs to be played in public before December

microchip databases and how to update a microchip, please

7 No Christmas adverts to be displayed until December

visit www.chipmydog.org.uk/update-your-dogs-chip.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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homestyle

FEBRUARY GARDENING

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As we leave the wettest December on record in the UK as recorded by the Met Office, we can begin to celebrate the spring ahead of us.

lready as I write flowers are coming into bloom,

can be done. Getting on soaked ground damages the soil

starting with the early snowdrops. In full flower

structure so is best avoided if possible. One of the benefits of

now in January the giant snowdrop Galanthus

wet days is the opportunity to spend time in the glasshouse

Elwesii with G. Nivalis the single and double

clearing and tidying up in general to prepare for the coming

forms coming out first to be followed by G. Plicatus and

season, protecting any tender plants or stored tubers such as

G. Elwesii, the carpets of white bells lighting up the banks, attracting bees to feed on the early pollen.

In flower this year are Cornus Mas with small clusters of yellow flowers, creating a haze of yellow across the bare stems of the bush, Primula, Violets, Periwinkle and even a few Scilla Italica 'The Italian Bluebell' one of my favourite spring bulbs (picture above) which is usually up in March, Hellebores in flower ranging from the green flowers of Hellebore Foetidus 'The Stinking Hellebore' to the wide range of colours in the traditional Lenten Rose Hellebore hybridus.

Cannas and Dahlias, kept dry and protected from the frost. At The Weir we have a unheated glasshouse and by the end of February we start to pot up the plants to start into growth to provide us with plants in flower to plant out in May. Many vegetables can be started now brassicas and legumes are worth starting inside to avoid both weather and rodents, some bottom heat is needed to germinate many seeds at this time of year but after germination they can go out into cold frames and cloches. The most vulnerable time for germinating seeds is when the embryonic leaves burst from

Normally by the end of February the snowdrops are beginning

the seed capsules, just as we germinate sprouted seedlings

to fade and its a good time to think about splitting the plants

in our kitchens for our salads, mice know that this is the most

and transplanting to widen the display and a time to swap

nutritional stage to eat, so by protecting at this stage you can

with friends. Bulbs can be deep so take care when lifting, dig

significantly avoid losses. Once past this stage and they have

up a clump at a time making sure your beneath the rooting

put on some growth you can harden them off and plant.

mass and using your hands tease apart in to small groups and replant at same depth in new site, adding some leaf mould or

Legumes are particularly susceptible to attacks, last year we

compost to increase drainage and aeration. This can be done

had near total losses to our directly soil sown broad beans

every 3-5 years depending on growth. At The Weir we like to

over 3 nights and found it necessary to replant after resowing

finish any clearance work, leaves and winter debris from paths

in seed trays and planting out we had no losses.

banks and lawns, any remaining cutting on the banks and hedges and general tidying up. As the birds are beginning to nest we cease all major work in the banks and hedges at the

such as the ordering of plants and seeds for the coming

end of February until after the nesting season is over.

season and watching the garden birds. Enjoy the coming

In the walled garden the wet December has delayed any major work, a dry spell is needed before any digging and planting

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Other pleasurable tasks can be done with a mug of tea

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

spring and hope to see you at The Weir Garden.

Ned Price, Gardener in Charge

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homestyle

Pugh's Antiques and Quality Interior Furnishings Pugh's Antiques retail antiques, antique furniture and leather replica furniture.

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They are also specialists in English and French antiques and antique furniture replicas.

heir large, 3000 square foot showroom, open to

online where you can bid or make an offer at any time. If

the public, set in rural Herefordshire has a wide

you see items you like on their website or Ebay shop you

collection of over 300 pieces of antique furniture

are always welcome to give them a call to talk about your

and vintage effect, leather replica furniture. French

requirements, including any offers and delivery charges.

antiques, country, provincial, English antiques, Victorian

They can deliver furniture anywhere in the U.K. and also

furniture, and many other types of antique furnishings are

overseas as well.

also stocked. They have a good choice of desks, tables, chairs, sofas - including a leather range as well, wardrobes -

With over 35 years of trading and 60 years of experience

some French, 2 and 3 door and Grandfather clocks.

between them, Claire Cherry and Guy Garner are happy to

The showroom is open Monday to Fridays 9am - 5pm and

help you with any antiques queries that you may have.

Saturdays 9.30am - 4pm. For more information please call:

Pugh's Secure Self Storage facility is also available and aims to

01568 616646 or email: sales@pughsantiques.com.

offer great value with prices starting from £1 a square foot per

Visitors are welcome to browse the showroom during

month. The units are clean, dry and secure with 24 Hour CCTV.

opening times or by arrangement. For customers who have

A collection and delivery service is also available for moving

access to the internet, their website www.pughsantiques.

items in and out of storage. For more information please call:

com and Ebay shop are available with a large range of items

01568 616646 or email: sales@pughsselfstorage.co.uk.

Pugh’s Antiques

Quality Interior Furnishings Portley House - North Road - Leominster - HR6 0AA

Visit our 3000 sq/ft showroom filled with a wide selection of antiques Good parking Self Storage available

From 48 sq/ft - 110sq/ft • Only £1 a sq/ft per month Open Monday - Saturday from 9:30am to 4:30pm

Tel: 01568 616 646

email: sales@pughsantiques.com or sales@pughsselfstorage.co.uk

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travel

Bavaria - The Perfect Mini Break Mini breaks have become more and more popular over the past few years with the option of no frills flights.

O Flybe

ne place that is easily accessible and only

Partenkirchen. This picturesque town offers the perfect

a 2 hour flight from the newly refurbished

destination for a mini break with both modern hotels such

and upgraded Cardiff International Airport is

as Hotel Konigshof situated opposite the train station and

Munich, Germany with Flybe.

just minutes stroll into the heart of Garmisch Partenkirchen

offer

passengers

daily

flights

to

Munich

International Airport from as little as £44.99 one way.

Cardiff International Airport, which has been completely renovated, is a great airport, most notably for ease of parking, with the carpark just meters away from the main

or alternatively more traditional accommodation is widely available.

Garmisch Partenkirchen is one of Bavaria’s

most popular ski destinations, offering visitors so much more than just stunning mountain ranges, but also at the foot of this impressive mountain are a wealth of shops, restaurants and bars serving their famous ‘organic’ beers.

terminal building. Checking-in is quick and efficient with staff on hand in the main area to assist, through to the

Oberammergau

departure lounge and VIP lounge.

Partenkirchen and is again popular for its ski visitors. This older

Munich International Airport has undergone a total

town is famed for its many buildings with beautifully painted

transformation and is the only airport to boast its own

(and usually religious-themed) facades – using a trompe l’oeil

brewery, where you can sit and enjoy their naturally

effect known as Lüftmalerei. As you wander along the cobbled

brewed beer. After taking refreshment, shop till you

streets you are quickly transported into a world of ‘Hansel and

drop! The airport has its own shopping mall where anyone

Gretel’. With the mountains above and the intricately painted

can shop - not just passengers.

buildings, it creates a magical stage setting. Hotel Alte Bolt,

Once in Munich, this part of Bavaria has so much to offer,

just

15

minutes

from

Garmisch

more historic town again offers so much more than skiing. The

originally the postal stop-off, is the perfect holiday destination for all Upper Ammer Gaube seekers. This traditional Bavarian

whether you are looking for culture within the city, seeking

hotel offers visitors the perfect destination for skiing,

perfect snow topped alpine mountains or soaking up the

sightseeing and a traditional shopping experience.

great beers that Germany is so famous for, it is all within

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is

easy reach.

If you are there for the skiing then you most definitely will not

Just an hour away from the airport nestled at the foot of

the Zugspitze is the highest mountain in the country and

Mount Zugspitze Germany’s highest mountain is Garmisch

home to three glaciers and Germany’s highest ski resort.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

be disappointed. At precisely 2,962 metres above sea level,

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travel

The 20 kilometres of pistes enjoy a deep covering of natural

Germany’s most famous mountain. Two toboggan runs,

snow for skiing and snowboarding for six months of the year.

Germany’s highest church, an igloo village and excellent mountain restaurants are reason enough for smiling

The Zugspitze is also an attractive destination for non-

faces. But while sunbathing on the inviting deckchairs may

skiers: Right at the top, an impressive 360° panorama

you find that your eyelids droop for a well-earned snooze.

opens up to reveal extensive views over 400 mountain peaks in four countries. The Zugspitze-Exhibition enhances visitors’ awareness of the historical developments of

Whether winter sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, romantics or sun worshippers: The mountain railways of Bayerische Zugspitzbahn make it possible for everyone to discover the snow covered Zugspitze from their own personal perspective.

Other attractions that await you in the immediate vicinity include the passion play theatre, custom-built to enable up to 800 people to take to the stage at the same time, and containing a great selection of photographs depicting Passion Plays past. The play is performed every 10 years with the next performance in 2020. Day trips to nearby Linderhof the smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria and the only one which he lived to see completed, is based on his visits to Versailles. The cheese factory and distillery in the Ettal monastery are also well worth a visit.

By MICHELE FORD

MORE INFORMATION For more information on creating your perfect mini break please visit one these websites: www.flybe.com | www.cardiff-airport.com www.munich-airport.de | www.ammergauer-alpen.de www.zugspitze.de | www.altepost.com www.hotel-koenigshof-garmisch.de | www.gapa.de www.herrenchiemsee.de

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

Little Black Hill Farm by Will Watson

i Pooling Together ¯ restoring the wetland landscape Ponds play a key role in our landscapes and are relied on by a wealth of flora and fauna. However, as they are no longer used for watering sheep and cattle, they often become overgrown, dry up and disappear.

P

onds play a key role in our landscapes and are relied

bugs and beetles can often recolonise within hours of

on by a wealth of flora and fauna. However, as they

a pond holding water. Plants and animals that colonise

are no longer used for watering sheep and cattle,

under their own steam are more likely to be suited to

they often become overgrown, dry up and disappear.

that habitat. Finally, planting ponds can also increase

Back last summer, a new project was launched by Herefordshire Wildlife Trust and Herefordshire Amphibian and Reptile Team to address this and invigorate the wetland of the Bromyard Downs, Brockhampton, and Bringsty areas. Working alongside representatives from the National Trust, Bromyard Downs Common Association and Bringsty Common Manorial Court, the project is now in full swing and is benefitting from generous funding from Heritage Lottery Fund, Biffa Award and Welcome to Our Future.

the chance of introducing invasive non-native species such as New Zealand Pygmyweed (Crassula helmsii). We will be monitoring the restored ponds over the coming months and will be considering whether it is necessary to plant them. However, we would urge members of the public not to introduce plants from other ponds as they may be detrimental to these wetland habitats. We would also urge people not to introduce fish as they predate on amphibians and invertebrates.

Over the coming months we need to ‘fine tune’ the work

So far 18 ponds have been restored with work beginning

of the diggers, this will involve getting our hands and feet

on the remaining three in the near future. These new

muddy. We need as many people as possible to get involved

ponds are currently looking like muddy puddles or “like a

with the project so please do get in touch if you would like

meteorite has hit”, as described by a local resident! This

to muck in! Next spring we will be running training sessions

is a normal stage in pond restoration projects and spring

on how to survey our newly restored ponds. We will also be

will see new life fill the pools.

running courses on tree bog (compost toilet!) construction

It is natural to think that new or restored ponds need a helping hand to stop them remaining ‘empty habitats’.

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in co-operation with The Cart Shed and practical pond conservation techniques. All training is free.

Newly restored ponds are a distinctive habitat in

There are lots of exciting things taking place in the

themselves that attract certain species such as celery-

Bromyard, Bringsty and Brockhampton area, be sure to

leaved buttercup and dragonflies. By ‘skipping’ this stage

get involved even if it’s just for one day. If you would like

we could potentially be limiting this important refuge. In

to get involved with the Ponds Project please contact Jane

addition, as pointed out by Charles Darwin, many pond

Čabara at the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust on

plants and animals are well adapted to find new sites:

01432 356872 or j.cabara@herefordshirewt.co.uk.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

St RICHARD’S SCHOOL Senior schools welcome boys and girls who are energetic, resilient and enthusiastic team players, who take their lives at school seriously but enjoy them too. At St Richard’s the tally of scholarships and awards continues to grow, with already three won this year in art and drama.

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he huge activities timetable: orchestra, choir, (nine

scale and family atmosphere of the school mean that children

different music groups), yoga, drama, art, ballet, county

can explore, test their strengths and address their weaknesses

cricket coaches, cards, Lego, woodwork, Mandarin and

in a safe, non-threatening environment. They work and play

riding to name a few, means children can develop their

strengths in many areas.

The children have the freedom to be outside, whether making dens in the woods or enjoying our new outdoor classroom. There

together, looking out for each other, making lifelong friendships in the process. For some this starts in Year 1 (the pre-prep) but for others it is later. This is why the school is offering a series of sporting scholarships to children who would otherwise be

is sport every day to complement a full academic programme

unable to come, each of which comes with a generous (means-

taught be specialist teachers in small classes. The result? In

tested) bursary.

2013 over 60% of our pupils won a scholarship or head teacher’s award to their first choice of school and this has grown since to over 80% last year.

To enrol on one of these assessment ‘taster days’ (taking place on Saturday 6th February and Saturday 23rd April) - please contact the office for more details.

Come and see how we do it – there are daily buses to and from Hereford, Worcester, Eardisley, Weobley and Leominster. The size,

Fred de Falbe, Headmaster

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homestyle

HELP TO BUY ISAs

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? Getting your foot on the property ladder can be a daunting and difficult experience. With the cost of living on the up and rental prices increasing by 9.7% in the last 12 months, the age of the national average first time buyer now stands at 37 compared to just 28 in 1995.

T

the

you to save tax-free, but they are

Building Societies offering their own

"Help to Buy" mortgage

specifically for first-time buyers.

additional benefits, such as up to 4%

scheme in 2013 bought

The scheme was launched on 1st

variable interest or a fixed bonus for

that average down by 6

he

introduction

of

December and a reported 140,000

the first 12 months. It pays to shop

years to 31 with over 70,000 people

accounts

around for the best rates. Websites

having bought their first home over

already.

the past year using the scheme, which allows savers to buy a home

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have

been

opened

such as www.moneysupermarket.

Saving money in a Help to Buy ISA

com or www.moneysavingexpert. com have useful comparison tools.

with a deposit as low as 5 percent.

will see the government boost your savings by 25%. So far, for every

You are not tied into an account

This scheme is designed to give first-

£200 you save, the government will

once you open it, so pays to keep an

time buyers the confidence to save

top that up by £50. The maximum

eye on the interest rate and switch

for a deposit without the feeling that

government bonus you can receive

to a better paying Help to Buy ISA as

house prices are rising faster than

is £3,000 and to get this amount you

soon as possible if it drops. You can

they can save.

must paid in a total of £12,000.

ask your new bank to carry out the

So how will a ‘Help to Buy

Where can I open an account?

ISA’ be different?

Opening an account is easy with

Like normal cash ISAs, they enable

most

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

High

Street

banks

and

transfer for you – don’t do it yourself otherwise your cash will lose its taxfree status.

>>

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25

homestyle

It pays to remember that Help to

if you are a first time buyer aged 16

The property must be purchased

Buy ISAs can’t be opened jointly, but

or older.

with a mortgage to qualify however

if you and a partner are saving for a property you can each open an account provided you each meet the criteria.

property or a share of one in the UK or anywhere else in the World. You must be a UK resident, have a valid

this doesn’t have to be with the same bank or building society you hold the Help to Buy ISA with, so ensure you shop around. You can take out any type of mortgage as

How much can I save?

National Insurance Number and must

The maximum you can save each

not have an active cash ISA in the

month into a Help to Buy ISA is

same tax year. If you have opened a

£200, although you can make an

cash ISA in this tax year, you can open

The Help to Buy ISA cannot be used

initial contribution of up to £1,200

a Help to Buy ISA but have to take

to buy a second home or a buy-

in the first month if you can afford

additional steps. You can ask your

to-let property, and the property

to. Most banks & building societies

bank or building society for advice.

cannot be rented out after you buy

are offering an opening deposit of just £1.

The minimum amount that you need in the account to qualify is £1,600 and you’ll get a £400 bonus

26

You cannot have previously owned a

What happens next?

Your government bonus will be applied when you are in the process of buying your first home and close the account. Ensure you choose

long as its residential and not a buyto-let mortgage.

it. It also must be in the UK and cannot cost more than £250,000 or £450,000 if you are buying in London. You won’t get a bonus if you decide that you don’t want to buy a home after all.

added.

a solicitor or conveyancer that is

Who is eligible?

need apply for your bonus, you

the Help to Buy ISA, visit

You can qualify for a Help to Buy ISA

cannot do it yourself.

www.helptobuy.gov.uk

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

registered for the scheme as they

For more information about

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

27

BEAUTIFUL

SPOIL YOUR LOVED ONE OR YOURSELF Valentine’s Day is almost here! So spoil your loved one with a beautiful gift or treat yourself to something special.

ELEMIS

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CLARINS

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Bagsy Pretty Cheeks - This creamy blush is domed-

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shaped so it’s easily applied and blends to a soft,

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nourishing cleansing oil

velvety finish. Using circular motions gentle apply it

enhanced with a new

soothes, softens and

to the apples of cheeks before using the tips of your

moisture-enriched

lifts impurities without

fingers to blend the colour along the cheekbones in the formula, offering a range

stripping the skin. The

direction of the temples. It’s conveniently designed for

of new shades with finer

Winter Rose oil, rich

touch-ups on the go, with or without a mirror.

pearl particles for a subtle

in Omega-9, with skin-

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conditioning Chia seed it effectively removes make-

28

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high-shine sister to Joli Rouge Lipsticks, they will

up whilst maintaining the

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skin’s natural barrier.

glossy lips.

£29.50

£20.00

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

BALANCE ME

BAGSY

CHANEL

CLARINS

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Bagsy Lip Velvet - Live

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look on the vulnerable

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on the skin. A delicate,

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women aged 45+.

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£12.00

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Stockist Details: Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk. Bagsy - www.bagsybeauty.com.

Clarins - 0800 036 3558 - www.clarins.co.uk. Balance Me - www.balanceme.co.uk.

Chanel - 0207 493 3836 - www.chanel.co.uk.

BEAUTIFUL

29

BEAUTiful

Did you know that to lose a single pound of fat you would have to burn off an incredible 3500 calories?

With the many tempting foods readily available to us and the confusing information about what is good and bad for our health, it is no wonder so many of us try and fail to lose weight.

I

f you have struggled to reach your goal weight in the

We guarantee that you will never feel hungry on this diet

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– if anything, you may feel like you’re eating too much!

Clinics can provide the guidance you need to regain

We have a large variety of Alevere foods available to you

control over your health.

and we also recommend you fill up on plenty of salad and

In clinics across the country we offer Alevere Weight Loss Therapy, an innovative and highly successful programme

Although you will lose weight rapidly, the programme

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consultation to ensure that your body receives the

Alevere is comprised of a medically devised diet, two advanced in-clinic treatments that work to reduce excess skin and stubborn areas of fat, and continuous guidance from an experienced and qualified doctor.

The programme is completely doctor-led, which means you will always receive medical support and advice tailored to your specific weight loss journey. Your doctor will be with you every step of the way, available to help you in the aspects of dieting you have previously found difficult to overcome.

30

vegetables.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

nutrition and calories it needs and once you have reached your target weight, your doctor will work with you to construct a suitable plan that will help maintain your new healthy weight without Alevere.

MORE INFORMATION

To book a free consultation with one of our doctors, please do not hesitate to call us on 0845 555 5050. Alternatively, you can find more information by visiting our website www.courthouseclinics.com.

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31

Caelicolae would like to introduce you to their Aesthetic Practitioner - Ros Bown Ros Bown is an expert in Medical Aesthetic Treatment and Injectable Fillers.

R

She has held clinics in Hereford for over 10 years. os Bown (RGN) is a fully qualified practitioner, and is

pigmentation and reduces acne scars. Ros also uses Obagi, which can

also an independent prescriber (enabling her to write

reduce Rosacea (facial redness) to an acceptable level. She can also

prescriptions), who has worked in theatres for 25 years,

apply skin peels including VIPeels, TCA Peels and Obagi Blue Peels.

leading plastic surgery. She has worked as an aesthetic

practitioner for over 15 years and has performed over 175,000

Products in Ros’s portfolio include Restylane, Juverderm Ultra,

procedures, demonstrating her experience in cosmetic treatments.

Radiesse, Muscle relaxant and Sculptra. Ros not only injects but also trains nurses, doctors and dentists in dermal filler techniques.

Ros will carry out facial contouring including cheek enhancement and chin augmentation. She also is fully qualified for facial rejuvenation,

Ros holds monthly clinics at Caelicolae Health and Beauty Spa, the

including mesotherapy, Restylane and Juverderm. Also Ros is able

next clinic dates are Monday 15th February, Monday 14th March and

to reduce sunken tear troughs and banish dark shadows under

Monday 11th April. All consultations are free and deposits of 25% are

the lower eye lids. She is an advanced practitioner for all Muscle

taken at the time of booking a treatment for all new clients. Offers

relaxant treatments, including treatments for people who suffer

available at the moment are: Muscle relaxant in three areas for the

from ’Gummy Smiles’, Ros is able to lower the top lip, thereby giving

price of two at £275. One area £195. Suitable for frown, brow and fine

you a natural and pleasing smile without showing the top gum.

lines around the outer corner of the eye and 10% off all dermal filler

She can reduce Acne Scars with Dermaroller techniques and also

treatments. Offer available for February and March clinics only.

is fully trained in skin care regimes from Vitality Institute, a medical

For

grade skin care, not only for rejuvenation but also banishes hyper-

www.rosmetics.co.uk or call 01432 267591.

32

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

more

details

of

treatments

on

offer

please

visit

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33

Hair By ESCAPE Recommended in the Good Salon Guide

O

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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35

retail therapy

WIN A BRITISH BOTANICAL GIFT SET FROM ELEMIS There is no place on earth like an English garden.

Nothing can truly match that idyllic sun-trapped sensibility of roses heavy with humming bees and freshly cut grass. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to capture that experience.

T

he ingredients are the best of British. Rosemary and Omega-rich Echium oil soften the skin; Lavender, Geranium, Palmarosa and Chamomile are restorative and balancing; organic Oats, packed with minerals and

vitamins, naturally moisturise, comfort and soothe.

Grown in the garden of England, the ingredients are carefully picked and pressed within nine miles of the fi elds. Freshness is optimum. The environment is respected. The eco-system is supported. What you are left with is skin that is incomparably cleansed. Intensely nourished. Profoundly soft to the touch. The experience lingers on the senses. The delicious aromatic leaves a fragrant veil.

cream blended with carefully selected British grown botanical, organic oats and essential oils of Lavender, Chamomile, Geranium and Palmarosa to celebrate our British heritage. Use in the shower morning and evening.

Artist and designer Amanda Ross brings a touch of the Secret Garden to the packaging with her intricate, life-like images, all replicated from plant cuttings that refl ect the formulations.

This is artistry outside. And artistry within. Shower in the

STEP 2 British Botanical Body Cream. This skin softening, aromatic body cream harnesses the powerhouse of ingredients grown

Garden of England.

in the idyllic British countryside, expertly blended with skin

STEP 1

hydrate and nourish. Use daily, AM and PM. Warm into the palms

British Botanical Shower Cream. A beautiful, nourishing shower

of hands and massage all over the body.

conditioning Milk Proteins and omega rich Echium oil, to deeply

Competition For your chance to win one of two British Botanical gifts sets, simply fill

Answer:

out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Name:

Which two products are in the Elemis British Botanical gift set?

Address:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Elemis WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 17th February 2016. Winning entries will be drawn at FIFTY THREE random. ISSUE One entry per person.

36

WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

Tel: Email:

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

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37

FOOD & DRINK

TUDGE FARM PORK CHOP CARAMEL APPLE PUREE, CELERIAC, REMOULADE

Ingredients

2 Remove the pork chops from

B 4 organic pork chops B 3 celeriac B 8 Granny Smith apples B 200ml sour cream B 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard B 250ml double cream B 150g unsalted butter B sprig of thyme B 2 cloves of garlic B salt and pepper

the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature.

3 Peel the remaining apples, quarter and core. Heat a pan with a small amount ofoil and butter and once hot, cook your apples until they are a dark rich brown colour. Blitz into a puree once they have reached the desired colour.

4 Heat a large frying pan with

Method

oil, season the pork chops

1 Peel the celeriac, cut across

and once the oil is hot, start

the equator and portion The Charlton Arms is situated on the iconic Ludford Bridge, a short walk from the town centre of Ludlow.

It's a family run Freehouse, serving real ales and fantastic food with comfortable accommodation as well. The gastropub is currently owned by husband and wife team Cedric and Amy Bosi and the kitchen is run by the new head chef Lee Barnett.

The Charlton Arms, Ludford Bridge, Ludlow Shropshire SY8 1PJ 01584 872813 reservations@thecharltonarms.co.uk www.thecharltonarms.co.uk

38

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

into rounds, ensuring there are two per plate. Take the excess and split into two equal amounts. Use half of the excess to make the puree by adding to a pan with cream and salt. Once cooked, blitz in a blender until smooth. Set aside. Finely grate the other

cooking. When the chops are in the pan, resist the urge to move them around as this will stile the caramelisation of the meat. Cook for three minutes and turn. Add a knob of butter and inish in the oven for approximately ive more minutes. Once cooked, to your liking, allow to rest.

half with two apples. Add the sour cream and wholegrain

5 Assemble the various

mustard, season and combine

garnishes, plate the pork chop

to make the remoulade.

and serve.

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39

The Crown Inn, Woolhope

FOOD & DRINK

Set in the heart of Woolhope serving great local produce, simply cooked. Their

THE BIRTH OF

THE GASTRO PUB The British have always had a strong love affair with pubs. There are over 50,000 in the UK and they are often worshipped as the focal point of a community; a place to celebrate and mourn in equal measure.

T

he regular pub was once a

The

place for a working man to

been widely attributed to the rise to

sink eight pints with a pork

prominence of British cuisine, which

pie and a bag of crisps before

has allowed us to embrace our heritage

heading home, late of course, for

and traditions, but with a modern twist.

dinner. Like society itself, the traditional

movement

has

site, allowing them to serve a great steak collection as well as a varied menu. www.crowninnwoolhope.co.uk The Stagg Inn, Titley Herefordshire Dining Pub of the year for 2015 and 2016 and a top 20 pub in the Good Food Guide, The Stagg has a rustic feel with a small bar housing a collection of 200 pub jugs and three dining rooms. www.thestagg.co.uk The Old Black Lion Inn, Hay-on-Wye A historic 17th Century Inn, situated close to what was known as the Lion Gate, one of the original entrances into the medieval walled town of Hay-on-Wye. Their team of talented chefs serve up a mouth-watering menu every day, and use the finest seasonal and local produce to create new specials on a weekly basis. www.oldblacklion.co.uk

pub has long since evolved or died.

Its antagonists, however, of which there are many, argue that a pub should stick

The Trumpet Inn, Ledbury

In the late 1980s, heavily in the throes of a

to serving ale, with no greater culinary

With a wonderful, friendly team, The

Conservative government, the UK’s pub

aspirations than a bought-in pork pie

Trumpet Inn can offer you excellent ales,

scene witnessed its biggest upheaval in

or a pasty. Whilst an amuse bouche

wines and whiskies, together with a full

decades, with the large breweries being

plus a full tasting menu has no place on

selection of soft drinks. A fantastic kitchen

forced to sell some of their properties,

a pub menu, there are few things more

team is currently working on a new menus

making way for competition and fewer

pleasing than the fusion of good food,

and daily specials to tempt your taste buds.

barriers to entry, and thus many believe

good beer or quality wines, under the

www.trumpetinnledbury.co.uk

that, from the jaws of Thatcherism, the

same roof.

gastropub was born.

The Kilpeck Inn, Kilpeck

This is how a gastropub should be

Located in the historic village of Kilpeck,

The Eagle, in Clerkenwell, London

– a place that brings our two loves,

in the heart of rural Herefordshire.

is attributed with being the pioneer

food and booze, together in relaxed,

The inn was extensively refurbished in

of the gastropub movement in the

unpretentious surroundings. On a lazy

2009 to extend the dining area and add

early 90s and it remains at the top

Sunday, a restaurant setting just won’t

accommodation. They offer top quality

of its field with a daily changing, if

cut the mustard; Sunday demands

food sourced from local suppliers.

somewhat limited, pub menu with

wholesome, homely and well cooked

www.kilpeckinn.com

Spanish influences. The Eagle strikes

classics to accompany a bloody mary

the right balance between a pub and

or a lager shandy, and where else can

a restaurant, and therein lies the

you sit at your leisure with the papers,

problem for most.

slouched in your chair without worrying

A gastropub is not simply a restaurant

40

gastropub

3 Counties sourced meat is butchered on

too much about being ‘proper’?

that has beer on tap; nor is it an ale

A true gastropub should not be defined

house that serves a ploughman’s

by its ubiquitous design, its wooden

lunch as a side thought; it is, by

floors or its black chalk board menu,

definition, a place where good food

but by the quality of the food and

and drink sit seamlessly side by side,

alcohol it serves in its genre – in this

where the whole is just as good as the

case simple, rustic dishes with robust

sum of its constituent ingredients.

flavours, lovingly prepared.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

The Charlton Arms, Ludlow A family run free house situated on the iconic Ludford Bridge, offering real ales, fantastic food and a warm welcome.

Whether returning from a muddy walk or organising a special romantic supper, you will find exactly what you are looking for. www.thecharltonarms.co.uk The Swan on the Square, Kington Relaxed, informal but with no compromise to quality, they emphasis on simple but bold dishes, designed to make the most of their fantastic range of local, sustainable produce. www.theswanonthesquare.co.uk

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41

KEEPING ACTIVE

Start / Finish: The walk starts and ends at the Railway Station.

Public Transport: Nearest railway station at Hereford. Buses serve Hereford from all around. Please check timetables.

Parking: There is a large car cark adjacent to the railway station.

O/S Map: Explorer 189. A Hereford Town Map would be useful.

Distance: 3 miles. Shorter 2 mile option avoiding Aylestone Hill.

Time: This City walk can be completed in a few hours.

Refreshments: There are plenty of cafés, tea rooms and shops Terrain: This walk is mainly flat, along streets and footpaths.

The entire route is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs (with assistance). The walk can be muddy in places. Look out for traffic.

Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing will suffice.

HISTORY: This walk has been written with families and friends in mind and explores a large part of the City Centre. There are also a number of published trails for keen historians. Hereford has developed as a route centre on an important crossing point of the River Wye. It has a wealth of historic buildings, look out for wall plaques. It has a magnificent Cathedral with the Mappa Mundi and chained library. It has connections with the composer Sir Edward Elgar.

1: From the station walk down to Station Approach and then go left up to the junction. The shorter walk goes right and follows the route from Point 3.

2: More energetic walkers can turn left over the railway and up Aylestone Hill to the park at the top on the left with a fine view over the City and Wye Valley with the Cathedral tower and church spires against the back-drop of the Black Mountains. Walk up to the main road, turn right, and cross to Folly Lane and pass the Colleges to Southbank Road. Turn right and follow the road round to the foot of Aylestone Hill. Turn left and cross the railway bridge.

3: Walk to the major junction, passing the old cinema and the old warehouse on the left. At the junction, cross Bath Street to view the City Wall to the left. Cross Union Street and follow the line of the wall round the City ringroad or Blueschool Street, passing the new shopping centre on your right, once cattle pens, to Widemarsh Street where you then turn left. There was once a gate here into the medieval town.

4: Walk past the old shops and the old Butter Market entrance, all part of the original market area on the left which stretched through the High Town and beyond the Old House.

5: Arriving at High Town, turn right and walk to the top of Broad Street, the town’s Eign Gate was near here, to view the grand hotels of Hereford City. Return to High Town and visit the current indoor covered market beneath the clock tower on the left. From the market entrance cross diagonally right to the alleyway opposite, with the cider apple sculpture above. This medieval Church Street soon widens out, take care crossing East Street. This is where a weekly letter brought from London by stage coach was read to the people – before newspapers. On reaching Cathedral Close, turn left passing the Canon’s House to see Sir Edward Elgar. He lived in Hereford 1904 – 1911.

6: Notice the Cathedral Barn, possibly the remains of a Medieval Hall House, then walk along the north side of the Cathedral into the lower end of Broad Street. The Mappa Mundi exhibition is nearby. Look back at the west end of the Cathedral, rebuilt in 1786 after it collapsed. Walk down King Street and turn left along Bridge Street and over the medieval bridge. Notice the flood markings below on the bridge.

7: If the River Wye is in flood, avoid the riverside section and retrace your steps back to the Elgar statue, turn right into Castle Street and resume the walk from point 8. Otherwise, walk along the south side of River Wye to the Victoria Bridge.

Cross then go left up the steps or ramp to the Castle Green above. Walk back alongside the River Wye as far as the Pavilion. Turn right here and walk past the house with the pond called The Flosse and up to Castle Street.

8: Turn right passing the Almshouses and round to St Owen’s Street. Turn left and walk to the Town Hall on the left.

9: From the Town Hall, fork left along to the Old House.

Turn right at Commercial Road, walk up to Bath Street.

10: Retrace the outward route back to the bus, railway station or car park.

Written and Illustrated by Glynis Dray

42

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

Hereford City Walk

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43

LIVING HISTORY

Goodrich Castle - Discover one of the country’s best preserved medieval castles right here in Herefordshire The perfect medieval castle, Goodrich Castle stands amid woods on a rocky crag, commanding the passage of the River Wye into the picturesque valley of Symonds Yat. It is one of the finest and best preserved of all

D

English Medieval Castles – and a real local gem. espite its setting near the Anglo-Welsh border,

Under King Richard ‘the Lionheart’, Goodrich was granted

the castle led a largely a peaceful existence,

along with the earldom of Pembroke to the famous William

and its ruined state is a result of an episode

Marshal, a great castle-builder who may have initiated work

during the Civil war of the 17th Century. The

on the inner ward. Each of the Marshal’s four sons inherited

Castle is now under the care of English Heritage and is

the fortress in turn, the fourth dying childless at Goodrich

a great place for a time travelling day out for the whole

in 1245. Thereafter the fortress and earldom passed to

family this spring.

Henry III’s half-brother, William de Valence, who rebuilt its

Discovering the castle nestled in the Herefordshire

defences and living quarters in the most up-to-date style.

countryside feels like a real adventure. Young history

Goodrich still boasts one of the most complete sets of

hunters will love playing king of the castle amidst the

medieval domestic buildings surviving in any English

ruins, climbing to the top of the impressive towers, and

castle. William’s widow, Countess Joan frequently stayed

discovering a past packed with ‘murder holes’ and sieges.

here with an entourage of up to 200, entertaining her

A lively audio tour brings the castle’s history to life, and

relations and friends in the most lavish style.

the castle exhibition will help you imagine what life was

During the Civil War, Goodrich was held successively

like in a medieval fortress and see Civil War artefacts.

by both sides. Sir Henry Lingen’s Royalists eventually

From the exhibition you can climb to the castle and see

surrendered in 1646 under threats of undermining and a

the famous 'Roaring Meg,' the only surviving Civil War

deadly Parliamentarian mortar. The famous ‘Roaring Meg’,

mortar. A day of historic adventures is best rounded off

the only surviving Civil War mortar, has returned to the

with a delectable local treat from the castle tea room

castle after over 350 years.

(the cheese scones and home-made cakes are the stuff of legends!).

With so much to see and do – Goodrich Castle is the

From Norman gem to civil war siege

whole family, wrap up warm, and head off on your very

The Castle was begun shortly after the Norman Conquest

own journey into the past... Goodrich Castle is open from

in the 11th century by the English landowner Godrich,

10am – 4pm every weekend over the winter, and every

who gave it his name – ‘Godric’s Castle’. A generation

day of February Half Term from Saturday 13 – Sunday 21

later, the splendidly preserved square keep which

February. Family entry is just £17.20.

perfect blues to shake off the winter blues. Bring the

still forms its core was added, probably in the time of

44

Richard ‘Strongbow’ de Clare, Earl of Pembroke and Lord

For full details visit

of Goodrich 1148-76.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/goodrich

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

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45

SENIOR LIVING

ARE YOU ENTITLED TO MORE? It is estimated that every year 5.5 billion pounds of state benefits intended for older people goes unclaimed. Could you be missing out?

R

etirement is something that many of us look forward to – more time to relax and do the things we enjoy, more time to spend with family and friends. But along with more

free time may come a drop in income. Even if you have a reasonable income from pensions and other investments, it still makes sense to take advantage of any benefits or concessions you may be entitled to and increase your income.

If you are 60 or over, you could be entitled to benefits that you haven’t been able to claim before. This additional financial support can help you maintain your independence, improve your standard of living, help with housing costs, care needs or general day to day living expenses. Don’t assume you’re not eligible just because you have some savings or own your home.

And even if you’re already claiming some benefits you may be entitled to others - it doesn’t hurt to check.

Last year our Information & Advice Team gained more than £1 million in additional income for older people

46

offers impartial and accurate information and advice.

Below are some of the benefits you might be eligible for and how much you could get.

Pension Credit Who can claim? Most people on a low income. The qualifying age is increasing and was 62 1/2 years in April 2015.

How much (per week)? Amount varies but tops up your income to at least £151.20 for a single person and £230.85 for couples. Higher amounts apply to many couples.

Help with Council Tax Who can claim? Different types of help are available, you’ll need to contact your local council to see if you qualify for help.

How can it help? Amount varies but may cover your Council Tax in full (this is especially likely if you receive the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit).

in Herefordshire. Our Information & Advice Service

Housing Benefit

is free to people aged 50 and over, their families and

Who can claim? Most people on a low income who

carer’s. This is a completely confidential service which

rent their home.

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

>>

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47

SENIOR LIVING

How can it help? Amount varies but may cover your

Attendance Allowance

rent in full (this is especially likely if you receive the

Who can claim? Most people aged 65 and over with

Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit).

personal care needs.

Winter Fuel Payment

How much (per week)? £55.10 if you need help in the

Who can claim? Most people born before 6th January

day or at night. £82.30 if you need help in the day and

1953.

at night.

How can it help? One annual payment, normally £200

Carer’s Allowance

if you are under 80 and £300 if you are 80 or over. You

Who can claim? Many people who care for someone

will usually get less if you live with other people who

with a disability or health problem for at least 35

qualify.

hours a week.

Cold Weather Payment

How much (per week)? £62.10.

Who can claim? Most people receiving Pension Credit or certain other benefits.

How much (per week)? £25 when the weather is very

Our Information & Advice Team carry out free benefit checks, they will explain each benefit and entitlement to you, work out what you might eligible to claim for

cold.

and help you to complete forms. They can also help

Warm Home Discount

information and advice about residential and nursing

Who can claim? Most people who are on a low income

home fees, paying for care at home, tax, pensions,

or receiving Pension Credit.

housing and utilities. We offer drop in and appointment

How can it help? It’s a one-off discount on your

you resolve consumer issues, and provide impartial

sessions at our offices and also arrange home visits for people who find it difficult to leave the house.

electricity bill made by your energy supplier, usually between October and March.

If you have concerns about money or paying bills contact our Information & Advice Team before these

Help with health costs Who can claim? Most people who receive Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit, and other people who

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become a long term worry.

To find out more about our Information &

are on a low income.

Advice Service and how we could help you,

How can it help? Help with the costs of dental

email: contact@ageukhl.org

treatment, prescriptions, eye tests and other costs.

Registered Charity No: 1093512

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

please contact us: 0333 0066 299 or

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

49

EDUCATION

H Teach First launched in 2002 to persuade highÂŻ flying graduates to teach for at least two years in innerÂŻcity schools.

could teaching be the career for you?

The start of the New Year is a time to make new resolutions and plan challenges. For many of us, January is also a time to think about our careers, and even look to change direction. But have you considered heading into the classroom?

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

>>

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

51

EDUCATION

tried-and-tested knowledge and skills to teaching, you can make a real difference to young people’s lives. There aren’t many careers where no two days are the same.

In teaching you get to pass on your love of a subject, innovate and lead in your own classroom every day.”

Joe Hull, 36, was a policeman for 12 years before switching to become an English teacher in 2013 through Teach First. He said: “When I left university it was a choice between

Y

joining the police and becoming

oung professionals are to be

campaign Change Career, Change

a teacher. I became increasingly

targeted to switch career and

Lives, with the aim to inspire more

disillusioned with the police but

retrain as teachers in some

young professionals and career-

by then I was married with two

of the UK’s toughest schools,

changers to teach in low-income

children and thought it would be

areas across England and Wales.

impossible to retrain as a teacher

as part of a major recruitment drive which launched on the 18th of January.

Lawyers,

police

staff

and

office

workers are among those who will be

“Working

in

the

school

environment is unlike anything I’ve

and be without a salary for a year.”

James

Alexandra, who joined a Leadership

believe it takes a lot more than just

Development Programme (LDP) in

academic credentials to become a

2014 from a career working with young

great classroom leader, and that's

offenders, “you have to collaborate,

why we place a high value on

so that whole environment is quite

experience. Career changers bring

expertise from other sectors. This is to

interesting,

teachers

an invaluable mix of experience,

solve the increased demand for staff

all supporting each other.” For

skills and expertise that make a

from schools, particularly in priority

Michaela, also training as a primary

real difference in the classroom".

subjects such as science and maths.

teacher, having worked at a not-

for a life back in the classroom. More than one in five of the latest cohort of teachers joining education charity Teach First are career changers and young professionals, bringing valuable

with

the

for-profit organisation, the reality Schools in poorer areas have been hardest hit by a worsening teacher recruitment crisis, the charity argues.

Research has shown that only one in seven teachers would take a job in a more demanding school than their

of the job wasn’t entirely as she’d anticipated: “I expected teaching to be challenging and it definitely has been… but I didn’t realise it would be so fun and exciting.”

own. A survey of school leaders showed

Travis, a former PHD student and

that 54 per cent in poor areas said the

trainee science teacher loves working

struggle to attract good teachers was

in such a diverse environment: “You

a major barrier to improving pupils’

get to meet lots of different types

performance, compared with 33 per

of people and personalities, from

cent in more affluent areas.

different backgrounds and with

Teach First launched in 2002 to

different priorities. Getting to know your students in that way makes

Westhead

continued

"We

done before,” says primary teacher

encouraged to ditch their existing jobs

So whether you’ve already considered a career in the classroom or not, the LDP could be your opportunity to change career and change lives. Your next local event is on 10th February at the University of Birmingham - this event offers an overview of Teach First and their Leadership Development Programme (LDP) for anyone with a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) degree or A levels. The LDP combines teacher training with leadership skills, and the experience gained can be taken forward into any career. If you have any questions

teaching a really good job to have.”

about this event please contact Lorna

inner-city schools. On 18 January it

James Westhead, Teach First executive

other locations see http://graduates.

began the nationwide recruitment

director, said: “By bringing your

teachfirst.org.uk/events

persuade

high-flying

graduates

to teach for at least two years in

52

as I couldn’t afford to do a PGCE

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

on

lculpin@teachfirst.org.uk

for

Herefordshire children get ready to compete in prestigious singing awards Talented Herefordshire children sang for joy after hearing that they have qualified

M

for the semi-finals of the BBC School Choir of the Year.

embers of the Hereford Cathedral Junior

In addition, they formed part of a thousand strong massed

School Chamber Choir arrived at school to hear

choir to take part in the Barnardo’s young supporters’ concert.

the exciting news that they had qualified for prestigious competition.

Junior School Headmaster Chris Wright said: “There was

much excitement of course - and we are all looking forward to travelling to Sheffield for the filming of the semi finials in February.”

Last year's Junior School Chamber Choir were named as Barnardo's Choir of the Year, and the 40 children were invited to sing at the Royal Albert Hall in front of thousands of people.

Mr Wright added that he was extremely proud of the children.

“The children were absolutely brilliant. They conducted themselves perfectly and they gave an impeccable performance. Singing a solo at the Royal Albert Hall can be daunting at any age but the children took it all in their stride. It was a wonderful experience and one that the children will remember for a lifetime. There were an awful lot of proud parents.”

In October the children also sang as part of a special concert

The young choir performed a solo piece entitled ‘Never let

for His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent during his visit

go of your dream’ by Mary Donnelly and George Strid under

to the county. To see them performing in the Barnardo's

the direction of Hereford Cathedral Junior School’s Director

final

of Music, Rachael Toolan.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zfTqJuCzfY.

visit

www.youtube.com/watch?v=82ZJVktx8PY

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

and

53

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Win a luxury night for two at Worcestershire’s leading wedding venue!

Nestled discreetly within the Vale of Evesham, The Wood Norton is a beautifully crafted grade II listed

F

Victorian manner house, originally built for French royalty.

ollowing an extensive refurbishment programme

can imagine the wedding of your dreams. Arrival drinks

during 2012, the hotel reopened, maintaining its

and canapes on the front lawn, overlooking the cascading

original 19th Century French decorative interiors

Worcestershire countryside. An intimate exchange of vows in

throughout, combined with the very best the

the hotel’s wood panelled hall. The gathering of close family

modern world has to offer.

and friends in our impressive events suit, The Orangery.

All team members work hard to ensure each and every

In celebration of the 108th anniversary of The Wood

guest enjoys a first class experience from arrival, enhanced

Norton's original Royal Wedding, the hotel has launched a

by The Wood Norton’s Head Chef, Kieran Hunt. Since

new all-inclusive 2017 offer, available for all off-peak dates

joining The Wood Norton in September 2015, Kieran has

throughout the year.

completely transformed the hotel’s fine dining experience, combining innovative and conventional cooking methods to create mouthwatering dishes to suit all tastes.

dreams, including a delicious three course wedding

In late 2013, The Wood Norton wowed local residents and

- together with a number of exciting extras, such as

brides alike with the introduction of its very own events

reduced accommodation rates, your very own wedding

suite ‘The Orangery’ - and is now one of Worcestershire’s

co-ordinator and Sunday lunch for the special couple

leading wedding venues and establishments for functions

after their big day.

and corporate events.

breakfast, drinks package and evening food for 60 guests

For more details, please email Sandie Griffiths

Weddings at The Wood Norton

at weddings@thewoodnorton.com or call

From the moment you approach The Wood Norton, you

the hotel directly on 01386 765 611.

Competition

For your chance to win a luxury night for two at The Wood Norton, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Which Royal Princess was married at The Wood Norton in November 1907?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: The Wood Norton WVMN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 17th February 2016. Prize details: included in the prize will be a delicious three course dinner crafted by new Head Chef Kieran Hunt, an overnight stay in one of our hotel's top suites and a full English THREE breakfastISSUE for theFIFTY following morning.

54

For just £4440 couples can enjoy the wedding of their

WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email:

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

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

55

OUR EVENTS DIARY

FEBRUARY MONDAY 1st Carers Social Event & Information Day Aspire Community Hub Canal Road Hereford HR1 2EA Cost: free info@crossroadshereford.org.uk WEDNESDAY 3rd The work of the Brecon Beacons National Park Hopelands Weobley Village Hall Gadbridge Road Weobley HR4 8SN Cost: £2.50/ £3 www.herefordshirewt.org Volunteer open day Croft Castle Yarpole near Leominster Herefordshire HR6 9PW Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Ludlow SY8 1AZ Cost: £17/ £16 conc. £8 under 18 Contact: 01584 878141

Hereford HR4 9JR Cost: free Contact: 01531 671004

FRIDAY 5th Flatworld Conquest Theatre Tenbury Road Bromyard HR7 4LL Cost: £8 Cost: 01885 488575

SUNDAY 7th Beethoven’s Eroica and Mendelssohn’s Masterpiece Shirehall St Peter's Square Hereford HR1 2HX Cost: £5-£22 www.eso.co.uk/?page_id=2750

February 5th Macmillan coffee morning Studiocrafts Ground Floor 5a the Southend Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 2EY Cost: free www.studiocraftsledbury.weebly.com Megson Leintwardine Community Centre High Street Leintwardine Herefordshire SY7 0NA Cost: £12 www.leintwardinecentre.co.uk

THURSDAY 4th Birds in a Herefordshire Garden Christchurch Edde Cross St Ross-on-Wye Herefordshire HR9 5BH Cost: £1.50/£2.50 www.herefordshirewt.org

SATURDAY 6th The Galant Hautboy in London St Michael's Church Discoed near Presteigne Leominster LD8 2NW Cost: £15 / £5 full time student Contact: 07989 091949

La Traviata Ludlow Assembly Rooms 1 Mill Street

Seed Swap The Courtyard Theatre Edgar Street

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

TUESDAY 9TH - THURSDAY FIDDLER ON THE ROOF The Courtyard Theatre Edgar Street Hereford HR4 9JR Cost: ticket prices vary Contact: 01531 671004 FRIDAY 12th WISH Pop up Dorstone Front Room Dorstone Footpath Dorstone Herefordshire HR3 6AN Cost: free Contact: 01432 383880 Patsy Cline & Friends Ludlow Assembly Rooms 1 Mill Street Ludlow SY8 1AZ Cost: £18/ £17 conc.

Contact: 01584 878141 BBC Radio 4 – Any Questions? (Live) Sports Hall thePoint4 The Royal National

>>

WYE VALLEY

N W To have your local event included in our Wye Valley Now events diary please send details to Genna McCann-Taylor Tel: 01905 727901 genna@pw-media.co.uk

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

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OUR EVENTS DIARY

College for the Blind Venns Lane, Hereford HR1 1DT Cost: free but ticketed Contact: 01432 376 621 Saturday 13th Pruning Young Fruit Trees Workshop Houghton Court Hereford Herefordshire HR1 3HZ Cost: £50 HWT members, £60 non members. Booking is essential.

Contact: 01432 356872

Contact: wpridie365@waitrose.com Wednesday 17th - Sunday 21st Bishop's Castle Arts Festival Various venues throughout Bishop's Castle Cost: most events free, see programme for more details www.bishopscastleartsfestival.co.uk

SUNDAY 14TH Sir Derek Jacobi’s #BigTeaCosy Bodenham Village Hall Bodenham Hereford HR1 3LB Cost: £15 Contact: 01432 361050

THURSDAY 18TH Curry & Quiz Night The Butchers Arms Woolhope Hereford HR1 4RF Cost: £10 per person Contact: 0771747827

Saturday 13th Signs of Spring family trail Brockhampton Estate Bringsty Herefordshire WR6 5TB Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Valentine's Day flower making Brockhampton Estate Bringsty Herefordshire WR6 5TB Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

SATURDAY 13th - SUNDAY 14TH Persiana Author Hosts Valentine’s Dinner Party at Dewsall Dewsall Court Callow Hereford HR2 8DA Cost: £62 Contact: www.dewsall.com

Monday 15th - Friday 19th Red Earth Genius Loci Berrington Hall near Leominster Herefordshire HR6 0DW Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Saturday 13th - Sunday 21st Spring Trail for children The Weir Swainshill Hereford HR4 7QF Cost: admission prices vary Contact: 01981 590509

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Wind in the Willows trail Croft Castle Yarpole near Leominster Herefordshire HR6 9PW Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016

Wednesday 17th Leominster Historical Society Talk - Inside Herefordshire Churches through the Centuries Grange Court Pinsley Road Leominster HR6 8NL Cost: members free, visitors £3 on the door

SATURDAY 20TH Supper and Swing All Saints Church High Street Hereford HR4 9AA Cost: £25 www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk SUNDAY 21ST The Mighty Prince and Other Fabulous Fables Kingsland Coronation Hall Kingsland Herefordshire HR6 9QS Cost: £5 www.artsalive.co.uk Saturday 27th February - Thursday 17th March Berrington book fair Berrington Hall near Leominster Herefordshire HR6 0DW Cost: ticket prices vary www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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

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ISSUE FIFTY THREE WYE VALLEY Now FEBRUARY 2016