Wye Valley Now October 2017 by PW Media & Publishing Ltd

WYE VALLEY

N W OCTOBER 2017

issue SEVENTY¯TWO

ROBIN ELT ¯ A FAMILY

HERITAGE IN FOOTWEAR see page THIRTY-FIVE for more information

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ISSUE SEVENTYÂ¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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

ADVERTISE

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

If you´re looking for a more traditional heating system, wood burners can be a cool and quirky way to bring a glow to your home.

Editor

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

DESIGN

Paul Blyth

Amy Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS

Broad Bean Glynis Dray Robin Elt Lisa Fisher Kay Hurdidge Bill Laws Andrew Nixon Belmont Vets

Choosing the right heating for your home

FILLING YOUR GARDEN WITH COLOUR

New study reveals the stark financial realities of running a home in the UK

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.

The Hedgerow Larder

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CONTENTS

PINK IS MY FAVOURITE COLOUR

Christmas Cake

ISSUE SEVENTY TWO

OCTOBER 2017

The story that won’t go away

Getting Debt

62 ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

our events diary

Help with

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARLY

Win a Classic Spa Day for two at The Elms

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HERE & NOW

Legges of Bromyard applies to open restaurant at Linton Trading Estate

Bromyard butchers has applied

The

for planning permission to open a

applicant, Anthony Legge, has identified a

restaurant and takeaway business

planning

application

says

the

need for the provision of sandwiches and

at a trading estate.

light snacks for those employed in Linton

Legges of Bromyard in Tenbury Road has

Trading Estate, as well as the passing

applied for a change of use from a office

trade from the busy A44.

to restaurant at The Coach House at Linton Trading Estate on the A44 close to

The application says most customers will

Bromyard.

be collecting takeaway food but there will

The butchers, deli and pie shop also has

be dining space within the building.

a unit in Aylestone Hill in Hereford - The www.leggesofbromyard.com

Copper Kettle.

Flood alleviation scheme to be improved in Hay¯on¯Wye

flood alleviation scheme is set to be improved in Hay-onWye after a grant was awarded by the Welsh Government.

Funding worth nearly £120,000 has been secured by Powys County Council to develop 10 small-scale flood alleviation schemes in the county. This includes a scheme in Gypsy Castle Lane, Hay-on-Wye, which will involve drainage and infrastructure improvements to

improve local flood protection measures.

Hereford BID Best Presented Award

he Best Presented Award goes to

For many years, the Tanners wine

The Kup-cake Kitchen Display in Union

merchant Hereford branch in St Owen

Street has become recognised for their

the shopping environment by presenting

Street has created attractive, eye-catching

striking

their shop front at its best. This could be

window displays and this year has been

associated with upcoming events and

no exception.

seasons.

the Hereford BID member business in Hereford that is trying to improve

through eye catching window displays that helps to draw customers in or could be by keeping their building looking at its best through regular cleaning and decorative touch ups. The finalists are: The Kup-cake Kitchen

window

displays,

which

are

Pritchards Menswear in King Street sees retail as a form of theatre and aims to give the best experience from a visual

Cafe; Pritchards Menswear and Tanners

perspective. Results are on 5th October

Wines Ltd.

at Shire Hall.

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

WINNERS OF TOURISM AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE ANNOUNCED

inalists of Visit Herefordshire and Visit

help present the Visit Herefordshire

Best Festival & Events (Community)

Worcestershire’s Tourism Awards for

and

Excellence attended an exclusive

Awards for Excellence. It has been a

sponsored by SimpliWiFi – Borderlines

at www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/awards and

Film Festival

those

who

achieved

Highly

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homestyle

If you´re looking for a more traditional heating system, wood burners can be a cool and quirky way to bring a glow to your home.

CHOOSING THE

RIGHT HEATING

FOR YOUR HOME

Choosing the right heating option can be daunting,

Underfloor heating

given the massive choice on offer, British Gas offers

Underfloor systems are the ultimate in

our readers advice with this simple guide. From ultra-modern underfloor heating or traditional wood burners to efficient boilers and sleek radiators, here are some great ways to keep your home warm and toasty.

modern luxury. There may be freezing cold temperatures outside, but you are padding around in barefoot bliss. They are often high-spec, some even come with motion sensors and can be easily installed in a new build any room including bathrooms. Expect a bit of upheaval if you retrofit a system though, as you’ll have to take your floors up. The heat from an underfloor

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system rises slowly and, depending

Radiators

units or some seriously weird and

on the size of the system you opt for,

For most people, radiators are the

it can even replace radiators – great

most economical and efficient way of

for a sleek, minimalist look. ---------------------------------------------Best for: Modern homes where

heating homes. They work when hot

wacky versions. ---------------------------------------------Best for: Larger houses with three or

space is at a premium. Cost: Can be fairly pricey to fit – especially if the system is retrofitted.

water from a centrally located boiler passes through each radiator in the house – in the process 'radiating' heat and warming up the room.

Maintenance costs could be higher

There's no need to settle for a boring

than radiator-based set-ups.

design either. Today's radiators come

Energy efficiency: Medium.

in a dazzling array of styles, from

Underfloor systems can sometimes

sleek flat panels and versatile towel

take a little longer to heat up.

rails to traditional cast iron column

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

more bedrooms. Modern units are fantastic for a contemporary modern look. Column designs are great for Victorian and Edwardian homes. Cost: Varies depending on the type you choose. Basic systems can be extremely economical but the price can quickly rise if you opt for highend or designer ranges. Energy efficiency: High.

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Wood burners

Choosing the right boiler

If you're looking for a more traditional

Whatever

heating system, wood burners can

choose do not underestimate the

be a cool and quirky way to bring

importance of fitting the right boiler.

a glow to your home. They work by

Although not as visible as that high-

using the heat from burning wood to

end radiator design or Scandi wood

warm your property. ---------------------------------------------Best for: Country homes or period

burner, the boiler is the heart of your

properties with original fireplaces and kitchens with Aga-type appliances.

heating

option

Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Baxi and you

heating system – and being a little savvy about the best one to pick will pay dividends in the long run.

Glow-Worm. It's very important to choose the right boiler, because the size, type and brand of system you decide on can all have an impact on how much energy you use and how your home and hot water is heated. Modern boilers come in three main types – Combi, Conventional and System, although

Cost: Medium. Wood briquettes can be

Boilers now come in a wide variety

in practice system boilers are very

a cheaper and more effective option.

of shapes and sizes, from a huge

similar to conventional ones.

Energy efficiency: Medium.

number

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

brands,

including

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homestyle

CLEARVIEW STOVES There’s nothing quite as comforting as gathering in front of a real wood fire with your nearest and dearest –

warming yourselves as you talk, laugh and relax. With a Clearview stove in your home, you can look forward

to doing just that whenever the mood takes you. learview has been designing, manufacturing and

Our company’s product knowledge and expert advice is

distributing the finest wood burning stoves since

unequalled in the industry, and backed up by an exhaustive

1987. Its exceptional, environmentally friendly

stock of all fittings and materials required for the safe and

stoves offer an outstanding combination of

successful installation of a stove. When delivering throughout

state-of-the-art engineering, clean burning efficiency and beautiful design. The first UK company to have a multi-fuel stove certified for use in smokeless zones, we have built an exceptional reputation, with customers as passionate about their stoves as we are, and often quoting ‘it’s the best home purchase we have ever made’!

the UK, we ensure our products arrive safely and on time, using our own fleet of custom designed vehicles. The company believes so passionately about wood as a fuel, we have our own forests, from where each year we harvest, process and deliver thousands of tonnes of wood. Wood is clearly one of the most sustainable of all fuels. In choosing it to heat our

All of our stoves are a joy to use as they offer great

homes we pick as near perfect carbon neutral source of

controllability and, thanks to their crystal clear glass doors,

energy as it’s possible to find.

they allow you to enjoy a mesmerising view of the dancing flames. They are also really easy to light producing five times more heat from the same fuel as an open fire and burn so efficiently there’s no need for frequent cleaning. There is a stove in our range to suit every situation, each being available

For inspiration and to view the range in person, visit one of our beautiful showrooms in Ludlow, Stow on the Wold, and Whitchurch. Here you will find all of our stoves under fire, providing a complete Clearview experience together

in 6 colours and in a variety of styles with heat outputs from

with expert knowledge and advice. As well as our own

5kW up to an impressive 14kW. Many of our stoves have a

showrooms, we have stockists throughout the UK. For

boiler option, with the larger ones being capable of running

more information please visit our website.

a central heating system and they can be directly connected

to an external air supply, enabling them to conform to the

www.clearviewstoves.com

necessary building regulations.

Brochure Line: 01588 650123

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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homestyle

FILLING YOUR GARDEN WITH COLOUR If you want to fill your garden with colour next spring, plant bulbs from October to December, before the first frost. Daffodils, tulips, crocuses, grape hyacinths and fritillarias are just some of the plants to choose from.

ost bulbs have a long dormant period,

Herbaceous borders

requiring little attention for much of the

Planting bulbs in a herbaceous border will help to

year. When buying bulbs check they are

fill in gaps and provide colour and interest before

healthy and as fresh as possible. Avoid

perennials and shrubs begin to grow in early spring.

any that are damaged, shrivelled or feel soft, and go

Plant daffodils, winter aconites, tulips and fritillarias

for plump, firm bulbs. Aim to plant within a week or

for outstanding colour. Lots of single species can be

theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll start to sprout.

planted to blend in with the general planting scheme

Choose bulbs according to location and soil type. Most hardy bulbs originate from the Mediterranean,

of the garden, or try mixing different varieties to create an even and striking effect of bright colour.

thriving in a warm, sunny climate in freely draining soil.

Formal planting

Good drainage and plenty of sunshine is key, since

When planted en masse, spring-flowering bulbs make

most bulbs are prone to rot while dormant.

a valuable contribution to formal bedding displays. Try

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growing groups of early-flowering tulips in a bed which

Bulbs in pots

will be occupied by annuals later in the summer.

If you want a great patio display, try growing bulbs in pots.

Naturalising bulbs Many spring-flowering bulbs are ideal for brightening up the base of trees before they come into full leaf. The soil beneath trees is moist and light, offering the perfect growing conditions for scillas, anemones, erythroniums and crocuses. Bulbs such as dwarf daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops

of the same variety packed closely together for a bumper show. Several types can be planted together, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tricky to get the flowers to appear at the same time. How to plant

B Bulbs are some of the easiest garden plants to grow, needing only a well-drained soil and some sunshine. As a general rule, plant bulbs two to

and winter aconites can transform a dull looking lawn

three times their own depth and around two bulb

into a wonderful display of colour. To achieve a natural

widths apart.

look, throw bulbs up in the air and plant them exactly where they land in the grass. The aim is to make it

Keep it simple by planting a variety on its own or several

B It's

important to plant bulbs with its top facing

upwards. If unsure, plant the bulb on its side.

look as though they have decided to grow there by

B Replace the soil after planting, breaking down any

themselves. Allow plants to die down after flowering

large clumps and firm in gently, making sure there

before mowing over the lawn.

are no air spaces around the bulbs.

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B Plant where they land with a strong trowel or bulb planter - these are ideal for digging into heavy clay soil. To use, push the cylindrical blade down, twist and pull up a plug of soil.

B Drop the bulb in, flattest side down, and crumble the plug into the hole. In order to save time, try planting a large number of small bulbs by lifting a piece of turf and planting a group of bulbs in the soil. Bulbs in pots

B When growing bulbs in a pot, pick a container that is the right size and will complement your chosen bulbs.

B If you are using a clay pot with a large drainage hole in the base, cover it with a piece of broken pot.

B Fill pots with general-purpose compost, mixed with a handful of horticultural grit to improve drainage.

B Water after planting. Aftercare: Bulbs in pots need more care than those Bulbs in lawns

B Naturalise bulbs in lawns by taking a handful and dropping from waist height.

ISSUE SEVENTYÂŻTWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

in soil. Keep the compost moist and protect from frost by wrapping with bubble wrap over winter. Cover with a piece of chicken wire to prevent pests from digging them out. Remove it when shoots appear.

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Fireworks:

Fun for us, scary for pets The Autumn/Winter party season is here with the advent of Halloween and although we enjoy the thrilling firework displays our furry friends may not. Does your pet show any of the following signs?

This could mean they find the firework season stressful. Here

B Cowering/hiding behind the sofa. B Trying to run away/escape. B Soiling the house. B Refusing to eat. B Barking incessantly. B Restlessness e.g. pacing and panting for dogs and over

are some tips to help them cope.

grooming for cats.

ISSUE SEVENTYÂŻTWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

A few weeks before

B Ensure your pet's tag and microchip details are up to date in case they do run off.

B Build them a den/hiding place they can escape to. B Talk to your veterinary practice about the

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different natural and pheromone based supplements that can help them cope. On the day

B Walk your dog earlier in the day before displays start. B Ensure all windows, doors and cat flaps are closed securely. B Provide extra litter trays for your cat if they aren't used to being confined in the house. During the display

B Always keep pets indoors and don't leave them alone. B Pull the curtains and switch on the TV/radio to help mask the noise.

B Don't react yourself to the fireworks. B Encourage play and have new toys/treats ready but don't force your pet to interact with you.

B If your pet is happy in their den leave them be. B Ignore unusual behaviour such as whining unless they come to you for reassurance. Give them affection but no more than usual.

B Do not discipline or get angry with your pet. If they are already stressed this will make things worse. Don't forget your small furries: If you have rabbits or guinea pigs that are kept in the garden bring them in during firework displays. And if you are building a bonfire ensure you check it for wildlife before lighting. www.belmontveterinarycentre.co.uk

ISSUE SEVENTYÂŻTWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

WYE VALLEY

N W If you would like to advertise in Wye Valley Now please contact our sales team: Suzie Scott Tel: 01905 727904 Mel Penkoks Tel: 01905 727901

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PROPERTY

NEW STUDY REVEALS THE STARK FINANCIAL

REALITIES OF RUNNING A HOME IN THE UK Study reveals that almost half of monthly income for families with two people earning national average wage is being spent on house running costs (42% for homeowners and 40% for those who rent)

he report also shows that for 71% of people in

40% (rented) and 42% (owned) of post-tax earnings are

the UK it’s cheaper to run a home if you own the

being spent purely on household bills and the rent or

property, rather than rent.

mortgage.

Insurance a smart buy as homeowners and renters

Overall, the figures work to reveal that families today

have little flex for unexpected expenses

either need the head of the household to be earning

The cost of running the average-sized UK home has been revealed by leading home insurers MORE TH>N

both parents to be working, just to make ends meet.

which for the second year has published its Cost of

MORE TH>N's Cost of Running a Home research also

Running a Home (CORAH) report.

found significant variations in the costs of running the

The study found that owning a three-bedroom home

stretched are households in the highest region of

same-sized homes in 72 towns across the UK. Most

in the UK comes with average annual running costs of

Greater London, where 70% of properties cost more

£18,197 (£1,516 per month), with rented three bedroom

than £1,818.7 per month to run – the average UK net

homes slightly less expensive at £17,657 per year (£1,471

take-home after tax.

per month).

significantly more than the average UK salary, or for

Removing expensive central London out of the data,

For a household with two working adults each earning

the report also reveals the stark contrast in the monthly

the average UK annual salary, this means that between

costs to live in a three-bedroom home in different parts

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PROPERTY

of UK households do not have buildings insurance and one quarter do not have contents insurance – putting millions of households at risk for a large unexpected bill. The MORE TH>N Cost of Running a Home Report was compiled independently and the results show significant variations in the costs of running the same sized homes in 72 towns across the UK, contrasting the cost of average household bills plus payments for rent or a mortgage. The report reveals an average fall in costs of 7% for of the country of the 72 towns and cities that were surveyed.

contrasted with 2016, but this statistical average masks strong regional differences. Greater London, the South

A family with two people earning the national average

East and most of the South West and Scotland all cost

salary in Omagh, Northern Ireland would be left with

above a solitary national average wage income to run a

£2,796 disposable income each month, this figure

three bedroom home:

contrasts sharply with a family trying to run the same size home but in Oxford (£1,480), Croydon (£1,496) and Cambridge (£1,712.58) respectively, illustrating the gulf in house running costs that spans the UK. The Association of British Insurers reports that one third

those who own and 6% for those who rent when

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

The 2017 report shows for 71% of people in the UK it’s cheaper to run a home if you own the property, rather than rent. The East Midlands is the only region in the UK where it is always cheaper to own than to rent any sized property.

WYE VALLEY

N W

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NATURE NOTEBOOK

Whitethroat with blackberries © Margaret Holland

i The Hedgerow Larder Hedges provide not only shelter but also food for our wildlife. If you can, we advise that you leave your hedges untrimmed until the New Year to allow birds and mammals to make the most of the hips, haws and berries!

edgerows are an important feature of our

under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act of

landscape for many reasons. They provide shelter

1981 to intentionally take, damage or destroy the nest of

and protection in otherwise open areas for many

any wild bird while it is in use or being built.

small mammals, they provide nesting sites for

birds, and the berries and nuts they produce in autumn are important food for all sorts of creatures as winter closes in.

likely to disturb nesting birds. However, for the benefit of

Herefordshire’s countryside is rich in ancient and species-

their hedges much later in winter. Trimming and flailing

rich hedgerows. An ancient hedgerow is one which has

hedges removes the majority of hedgerow fruits and cutting

been in existence since before the Enclosure Acts of

hedges too early could starve birds of the berries they need

the 18th and early 19th centuries while a species-rich

to survive through to spring. Leaving them as late as possible

hedgerow is one in which five or more native woody

such as in January and the first half of February give the birds

species can be found in a 30-metre length.

an opportunity to exploit this food source - but leave it any

At this time of year, Herefordshire Wildlife Trust often receives calls and enquiries about hedge trimming. It is not really surprising as driving through the county’s lanes it is noticeable that hedge trimming begins in earnest in September and October. The enquiries we receive are often about the timing of hedge trimming: when is the best time to trim a hedge for wildlife; are there laws that prevent hedge trimming at certain times of the year and do I need to trim my hedges every year?

wildlife we recommend landowners and gardeners manage

later and the birds will have started nesting again! Better still is cutting your hedges every two to three years instead of every winter. This will avoid the problems of removing all of the hedgerow fruit in one year but it will also substantially increase the yield of hedgerow fruits because many trees like hawthorn produce their flowers and fruits on second year growth.

Whether you are a gardener or a farmer the timing of hedge

So, if you are thinking of cutting back your hedges please

cutting can have a big impact on wildlife.

leave it to January and early February to give our wildlife

It is generally accepted that cutting a hedge between

From the beginning of September onwards you are far less

a helping hand!

the start of March and the end of August is best avoided

Andrew Nixon, Conservation Manager at

because this is when birds are nesting. It is an offence

Herefordshire Wildlife Trust

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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BEAUTIFUL

PINK IS MY FAVOURITE COLOUR October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year, it’s the 25th anniversary of the pink ribbon.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE Limited Edition Pink Design Thickening Spray. A pre-styler spray essential in salons, on set, and backstage. Ideal for all hair types, it creates lasting lift, volume and body, for your lushest blow dry, ever. £5 from each sale going to Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF).

£22.00

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

CREME DE LA MER

CLINIQUE

Limited-Edition Crème de la Mer.

limited edition Dramatically

Formulated with the legendary Miracle Broth™,

Different Moisturizing

Crème de la Mer has the power to transform

Lotion+. Our new formula

the skin. In a short time, firmness improves,

now helps strengthen skin’s

lines, wrinkles and the look of pores become

own moisture barrier, so

less visible, skin looks virtually ageless. £19.50

more moisture stays in. Skin

from each sale of the limited edition 15ml

feels soft, springy and has a

Cream will be donated to The Estée Lauder

healthy-looking glow. £2 from

Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign.

each sale going to The Estée

£65.00

Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign.

£38.00

ELEMIS

ESTEE LAUDER

Limited Edition Pro-Collagen Marine Cream.

Limited Edition Advanced Night Repair

Clinically proven, the powerful anti-ageing

Synchronized Recovery Complex II 50ml

ingredients of Pro-Collagen Marine Cream have

with Pink Ribbon Keychain. Estée Lauder’s

been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles

#1 recovery serum, Advanced Night Repair,

and improve skin firmness, tone and hydration in

is for every woman, every night. Proven to

14 days. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the

maximise the power of skin’s natural night-

pink ribbon, Elemis is donating £25,000 to help

time renewal, Advanced Night Repair utilises

Breast Cancer Care.

an exclusive ChronoluxCB™ technology. 20%

£99.00

of each sale of the limited edition Advanced Night Repair will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

£72.00 @WYEVALLEYNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.NOWMAGAZINES.co.uk

Stockist Details: Bumble and bumble - www.bumbleandbumble.co.uk. Creme De La Mer - 0870 034 2566 - www. cremedelamer.co.uk. Clinique - www.clinique.co.uk. Elemis - 0117 316 1888 - www.elemis.com or www.timetospa.co.uk. Estee Lauder - 0870 034 2566 - www.esteelauder.co.uk.

BEAUTIFUL

BEAUTiful

NEW SEASON STYLES When fashion magazines are filled with glamourous models, it's easy to skip to the next page, muttering 'Nothing to see here...'

Sessun Coat: £230 Hugo Boss Jumper: £270 Maison de Nimes Leather Skirt £109 All available from House of Fraser

W 34

ell, actually, whatever our size, shape

right pieces that will bring your wardrobe up to date

or age, we can all do fashion. It's about

and make you feel fabulous? Easy... read my head start

finding those few key pieces that

on this season’s trends.

work for you, your body shape, your

personality and your lifestyle. Once you've tracked

Because the good news is, I’ve do the legwork for you.

them down, they'll refresh the outfits you have already

House of Colour have spent hours scouring the latest

- which means you wear them more and keep them

looks, from Rich Romance and Vintage Prairie to Hybrid

for longer. But there's a catch. How will you find the

Sports and New Heritage. We've worked out exactly which

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

ROBIN ELT SHOES The name Elt has been a by word for shoes in Worcester and the surrounding area for almost a century and a half.

he family firm was founded by Albert Elt (photograph above) in 1872 when he took over the two businesses of his brothers Harold and David, locating his new store in the Shambles.

In the Victorian tradition Albert had named his son Albert Edward, commonly known as Bert. With Ada his wife, they already had a shoe store in High Street, Worcester, roughly where River Island stands today. When father Albert died in 1923, Bert and Ada took

father like son, Robin saw potential in other towns with a similar trading profile to Worcester and has since opened in Hereford, Ludlow, Pershore, Abergavenny Torquay and Totnes. All beautiful towns that are strong tourist destinations. Modern retailing requires that you remain alert to changing trading conditions. Witness the current boom in coffee shops, mobile phone shops and hairdressers! Taking these factors into account, the business has kept pace with trends and at various times has traded in Mealcheapen Street, Lychgate, Reindeer Court only to return to the Shambles in 1998, to its current premises at number 50, opposite Argos. When Robin took on the business, Worcester had no fewer than 16 stand-alone shoe shops. Now there are only 5 other shoe retailers – how times and the High Street change!

on the Shambles business. The premises they bought at that time

Robin is extremely proud of the Shambles heritage where

had been the Old Market Tavern.

characterful neighbours included Pratleys China Shop, Maggs

Around this time Bert and Ada’s son Roy joined the business (but

Clothing, Thompson’s Fish Store and Sigleys Sweet Shop, who

if Roy had followed his heart’s desire, he would have opened a Radio and HiFi shop near the Cathedral!). After World War II, through Roy’s vision, the fairly mediocre

have now sadly passed into history. The shoe trade must work its way into the blood. From her early start in the 1920’s Granny Ada stayed as cashier until she was 91.

Shambles premises were transformed into a luxurious shoe store.

Therefore it should come as no surprise that in 1991, having

This stood out conspicuously in a street populated mainly by

acquired a degree at Exeter University, Jenny joined the business –

Butchers, Fishmongers, Green Grocers, Pubs and two way traffic!!

the Fifth Generation. Evolution dictates the direction of a business

Success breeds success. Roy expanded into a new store in

and Jenny has brought her skills in IT and Finance, taking on the

Malvern in 1948, followed by Stratford and Leominster in 1953 and 1966 respectively. Roy’s son Robin joined the business in 1964, which means to date he has had 53 years at the helm. Like

buying role from Robin for all nine shops. They’ve both travelled to Europe to seek out the very best in International footwear. www.robineltshoes.co.uk

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BEAUTiful

Reversible coat, Maison de Nimes: £129 Dress, Twist and Tango £119€ Hat, Maison de Nimes £20

bits will suit you, airbrushing out the things that don't.

('lo'). How you combine the opulent with the relaxed will depend on your own sense of style. I can help you

So you'll be able to pick out those key pieces,

with that. Layering is also big. As the temperatures

confident that they'll go with lots of outfits and see

drop you can experiment with different combinations

you through several seasons - because they are not

of dresses, knitwear, jackets and coats.

just fashionable, they are 'you'. With asymmetric cuts and big shoulders, there's a

Mix and match with confidence

touch of 80s power dressing to this season. Fabulous

The underlying theme of this season's looks is 'hi-lo',

for you if you love to make an impact and stand out

which means mixing the luxurious ('hi') with the casual

from the crowd. Enjoy!

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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BEAUTiful

Finally, if you love a bit of glitz and glamour, you can show off your sparkle and ruffles wherever you

Try something new and push yourself out of your comfort zone, Experiment and enjoy the new season.

are, morning, noon and night. Oh, and never feel overdressed! Perfect for those dark evenings... Tip of the month Accessories are a wonderful affordable way to update your wardrobe into the current trends. A new ontrend scarf, piece of jewellery, bag or shoes in your wow colours can make all the difference to updating your look. Try something new and push yourself out of your comfort zone, Experiment and enjoy the new season.

If you prefer a more classic look, think tailoring, elegant midi dresses and sleeves with extra volume. If casual is more your style, look out for relaxed maxi dresses and shearling detail. Texture is your friend!

MORE INFORMATION

Those of you with a youthful, playful style can release your inner fun by combining funky cropped jackets with quirky prints and placement details in an unexpected way. Be creative!

ISSUE SEVENTYÂŻTWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Colour Analysts & Personal Style Consultant lisa.fisher@houseofcolour.co.uk www.houseofcolour.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Christmas

Cake Alice and Ian Evans took over Broad Bean in Ludlow 18 months ago, with a motto that they would only sell ‘good food’. The business has gone from strength to strength in that time, most recently with a rebrand and colour change that better suits the changing face of the shop. It has been a wholefoods shop and delicatessen for 40 years this year, and they want customers both old and new to come in and see how the range has expanded in that time to create a fantastic Aladdin’s cave of goods. They moved from Norfolk, where Ian was butcher to the Queen on the Sandringham Estate, and Alice was in teaching, to realise their dream of creating a true delicatessen that showcases both local, national and international ‘good food’. At the recent food festival in the town, Broad Bean could proudly say they stocked no less than 14 local small suppliers’ products. Their range has expanded from selling traditional loose wholefoods, flours and oats, to also specialising in ingredients you struggle to find elsewhere for that unusual recipe. They have a growing deli counter and a large selection of loose teas and coffee beans too. This recipe is for their famous 9” Christmas Cake kit which can be bought in store from October onwards. The kit includes everything you need to make a 9” cake, ready weighed ingredients thus reducing packaging and wastage and saving money. Once the cake is finished and nearer to Christmas, pop into the store to get fresh handmade marzipan and icing to finish the cake off. You can find Broad Bean in Ludlow on Broad Street SY8 1NH, and online at broad-bean.com, on twitter @60broadstreet, Facebook 60broadstreet, Instagram broadstreet60. 01584 874239 | www.broad-bean.com

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Ingredients

of greaseproof paper for the

B 1kg Broad Bean mixed fruit. B 75g glace cherries. B 75g mixed peel. B 275g plain wholemeal flour. B 1 teaspoon mixed spice. B 250g unsalted butter. B 275g dark

top later.

muscavado sugar

B Grated rind and juice

3 Sieve flour, salt and spices into a bowl. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat eggs and add to the creamed mixture a little at a time, alternating with a tablespoon of flour to prevent it curdling. Fold in remaining flour, followed by fruit and nuts.

of 1 Lemon.

B Grated rind and juice of 1 Orange.

B 100g chopped apricots. B 50g mixed chopped nuts. B 1/4 teaspoon salt. B 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

B 4 tablespoon brandy (optional).

B 6 free range eggs. Method

4 Pour mixture into prepared tin, smooth and make a large well in the middle to allow for rising. 5 Tie some brown paper round the outside of the tin and place the circle of greaseproof paper on the top. Stand the tin on another piece of brown paper on the bottom shelf of the oven. Cook for 4 1/2 hours in conventional oven or 4 hrs in fan assisted oven

1 Soak all dried fruit and rind in fruit juice and brandy

6 Allow to cool a little in the

overnight.

tin then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

2 Heat oven to gas mark 1,

Store in a tin wrapped in

or 275oF or 140oC (130oC

greaseproof paper. Open

fan). Grease and line a 9 inch

up from time to time, pierce

cake tin with greaseproof

with a knife and pour more

paper, cutting an extra circle

brandy over.

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BOOK EARLY FOR XMAS

the importance

of being early Have you ever had your heart set on a certain restaurant and arrived only to discover that they require

reservations? Do you want to make sure everything goes well when you take someone special out to dinner? Here are some tips for making a reservation at a restaurant.

ost restaurants prefer or even require

earlier â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sometimes as much as a month or two before

reservations on special holidays when

special holidays.

they are likely to be crowded. This helps them plan the evening, bring in enough

staff and ensure a steady flow of customers with minimal disruption to your evening. If you want to take someone out on Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, or any other special holiday, make your

reservation. This gives you a chance to ask questions, make specific requests, and provide some peace of mind. Always be polite when you make your reservation, when you arrive at the restaurant, and when you are seated. Thank each staff member who provides service.

reservations as far in advance as possible to help

Special Occasions

ensure you get a table. Some restaurants will do

Certain times of year, restaurants are more crowded,

their best to accommodate a specific table or general location requests, once agin book these as far in

You may want to call the day before to confirm your

so you'll need to contact them as early in the planning stages as possible to find out when is a good time to

advance as possible to avoid disappointment.

make reservations. Holidays tend to be the busiest

Be sure to make the reservation at least a week in

all just around the corner, it's time to start booking

advance. Some popular places are booked even

your tables now!

ISSUE SEVENTYÂŻTWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

times for most restaurants. With the busiest of them

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BOOK EARLY FOR XMAS

James Aldridge – a true pioneer

of artisan British cheese It was during a bleak time in British Cheese that James Francis Aldridge, a scaffolder and mechanic from Lambeth, injured his back in a building accident. No longer able to continue his trade he decided to help his wife Pat as a cheesemonger in Beckenham, South London.

hat day may have been a bad day for the building

said his desire at the time was “to see the survival of

industry, but it was a great day for cheese, as,

natural cheese-making; preferably using raw milk

along with contemporary Patrick Rance, James

and organic practices.”

Aldridge would soon become a leading figure in the revival of specialist farmhouse cheese. It is thanks to

Over time and after a few experiments, James

these two visionaries that unpasteurised farmhouse

Aldridge found his calling in ‘washed cheeses’, made

cheese was kept alive. They kick-started the revival in

by frequent washing of the outside to produce an

specialist cheese which is still flourishing today.

orange rind and, often pungent, smell (attributed to a bacteria, brevibacterium, that loves these conditions).

Initially James set about tracking down cheeses for

the shop from small farmhouse cheese-makers,

A Caerphilly cheese he’d collected from Duckett’s

especially those using unpasteurised, or raw, milk. He

farm in Somerset had been left next to a Stilton

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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BOOK EARLY FOR XMAS

over Christmas and forgotten about. It picked up the

But he was aware that science was not everything in

orange, sticky bacteria found on a glossy Stilton rind.

cheese-making, stating “The great cheeses of the

This interested James and hence Tornegus, James’

world are the sum of the experience of not one

most famous cheese, was born. A Caerphilly washed in wine, it can still be found in good cheese shops today. James was a perfectionist, thinking about and analysing every step of cheese-making to get his desired end result: from sourcing the milk, to the flavour quality

In latter years James had to battle to keep his business alive, as a misguided emergency order in 1998 from the UK Government ordered him to destroy his £50,000 cheese stocks due to an unrelated incident

and intensity and texture. With one successful cheese

at one his producers. Offering no compensation,

under his belt James did not stop there, he went onto

even though his cheese was tested and found free

pioneer the development of some of Britain’s most

of contamination, it almost bankrupted James and

famous raw-milk cheeses: Lord of the Hundreds, Olde

he survived only on £20,000 of donations from

Sussex, Celtic Promise and Flower Marie, to name

Sunday Times readers and more than 1,000 letters

a few. Most of these he then passed onto various cheese-makers to continue to develop and nurture. Frequently offering free advice and development James became the ‘go to’ man for cheese advice in the UK. James cared less about profit and more about making better cheese in Britain. In fact, his attitude

but generations of cheese-makers”.

of support. Although his business continues, the lack of compensation put paid to his ambitions to sell the business and set-up a cheese-making school to further benefit British cheese. James died in 2001 (aged 61) and is succeeded by his

towards the science of cheese-making was at the

wife Pat Robinson who still makes Tornegus. His many

forefront of improving many cheeses and the way

cheeses, which are still made to this day, have and will

farmhouse cheese-makers think about making cheese.

continue to be a fit an proper lasting legacy.

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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KEEPING ACTIVE Start / Finish: This circular walk is 3 miles east of Kington. It starts and ends in the village centre (near location of Royal George PH) or at Lyonshall Nursery by prior arrangement. Note: Those arriving by bus need to disembark at Forge Row on A480 in Lyonshall and board for the return journey at Burnt Orchard stop on A480 further out of village. Public Transport: The nearest railway station is at Hereford. There are Sargeants 461 buses from Hereford via Lyonshall to Kington. Please check Traveline and local timetables before setting out. Parking: You will need to find suitable parking spots in Lyonshall streets. Please do not block gateways and allow room for agricultural machinery to pass your vehicle. Do not park at Church on Sundays. O/S Map: Explorer 201 Distance: 5.5 miles. (Shorter 3.5 mile walk). Time: Allow all day as there is plenty to see along this pretty walk. Refreshments: You will need a picnic. Coffee machine, snacks and ice creams available from Lyonshall Nursery en-route. Customers can park here by prior arrangement. Walkers need to contact the nursery in advance to organize coffee or tea for larger groups. Please Tel. 01544 340214. Terrain: Mainly flat with a few gentle climbs. There are steps, gates and stiles so this largely rural walk is unsuitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There are a number of cropped fields to negotiate and lanes to walk along. You will need strong boots. Poles are useful.

History: The village of Lyonshall is one of the ‘Black and White’

2 Cross the A44 with care walking right to the lane opposite that goes to the hamlet of New Street. On reaching the right of way on the left at Concrete Cottages you will cross the old railway that went from Lyonshall Station towards Kington and Presteigne, the ways dividing at Titley Junction. 3 The path goes round the back of Castle Weir to the drive. Turn right along the drive and at the curved corner the bridleway joins the line of the old railway that went towards Kington. This was formerly an

villages on a 40 mile long car trail. The walk passes the Church which

early tramway with horse-drawn wagons. The iron rails were fixed

is mainly Victorian on a 13th century foundation. It also passes the

onto metal plates that were pegged through holes in the stone

motte and part of the moat of a Norman Castle. It follows Offa’s Dyke

blocks set in the ground. A number of these stone blocks with the

for two miles, an old ‘horse-drawn tramway’ for ¾ mile and passes

holes in are still in place. The walk follows this 3’6” gauge tramway for

close to a disused Railway Line that once had a station at Lyonshall.

½ mile before it goes southwards and the tramway goes westwards

Note: Those permitted to park at Lyonshall Nursery on A44 can

past the Tramway Pool and along the valley towards Kington.

start and end this circular walk at point 5 - only for customers or organised walking groups - by prior arrangement (Tel. 01544

4 Where the bridleway joins the lane on a curve, the walk goes

340214). The short walk follows the main walk to point 6 at the

left for 1/3 mile to Lyonshall Nursery on the A44 where you can

Church. Take the drive down from the church to the A44 and cross

enjoy tea or coffee. The short walk turns left out of the Nursery

carefully to the bridleway opposite. After the short distance, take

along the verge of the A44 and up the track on the left.

the footpath on the left and follow it across the fields for ¾ mile to exit onto the lane opposite the Chapel at Lyonshall. Go left to the

5 To view St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, follow the shorter

A480 then straight on to end the walk at The Royal George Inn.

route that cuts across the fields from Lyonshall Nursery to point 6.

1 The main walk starts in the village of Lyonshall outside the

6 Those doing the main walk will need to return to the nursery,

currently closed Royal George Inn. Walk north-eastwards up the lane for 1/3 mile and take the footpath on the left opposite the sewage pumping station. Walk across the fields to A44.

crossing the busy A44, to point 7 to resume the walk. 7 Walk southwards for a short distance. Turn left, this is the ancient earthwork consisting of a bank and ditches called Offa’s Dyke. 8 Follow this well marked route for about ¾ mile. 9 Cross the lane to follow the Offa’s Dyke for further ½ mile to the tiny hamlet of Holme Marsh. Turn right (effectively straight on) and follow the lane round turning left twice to the junction short of the A480. Take the footpath to the left of the old ‘chapel’(?) and cross to the wide track parallel to the A480 to the lane at Lyonshall where the short walk rejoins from the left. 10 Turn right, passing the Chapel, and walk to the junction. The walk ends at Royal George Inn. Written and Illustrated by Glynis Dray

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Lyonshall – Exploring a ‘Marches’ Village

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LIVING HISTORY

The Herefordshire family decimated in the air raid. Ernest Hursey (centre) and his wife Bertha with their middle son Ronald, back right. Their eldest son, also Ernest (left), died later during a test flight in his Typhoon fighter plane. Only Ken, front right, survived. (Photo: Hursey family/In The Munitions)

The story that won’t go away Herefordshire Lore’s Bill Laws reflects on the aftershocks of a bombing raid on Hereford’s munitions factory 75 years ago

eople looked up when, in the early

Moorlands, which stood just outside the

in In The Munitions, Women at War in

hours of a clear day in 1942, an

factory fence on Watery Lane. Five died

Herefordshire

aircraft passed low over Hereford city.

at Moorlands and the sole survivor, Ken

Logaston Press (£10). Since then significant

Curiosity turning to alarm when onlookers

Hursey also shared his memories with

efforts have been taken to remember not

saw the enemy markings of the Luftwaffe.

Herefordshire Lore.

only Ken’s family, (Ken has since died) but

City women like Nellie Adams, working

Ken, then 16, was the youngest son of the

with live explosives at the Rotherwas

factory’s police superintendent, Ernest

Munitions factory south of the city had

Hursey. Ernest, his French wife Bertha

This July a commemoration service was held

good reason to be frightened. Many

and their middle son Ronald were still in

to mark the anniversary of the bombing;

years later she relived those moments

bed when their home was hit. Their eldest

families of former workers have been

son Ernest was away, training with the RAF

collecting the names of munition workers;

in Canada, but his wife and mother-in-law

the Hereford Archive and Records Centre

also happened to be staying Moorlands.

has been running the Rotherwas ROF (Royal

conversation

with

the

county

reminiscence group, Herefordshire Lore. Nellie and hundreds of other women were finishing their night shift. Convoys of buses bringing in the day shift waited outside the factory gates. “I looked up and he was that low, I thought he was going to hit us! Then I seen the swastika

“I remember hearing the plane come over and went to where I could see straight into the factory,” Ken recalled. “This plane was swinging round, directly in line with our house. The bomb bay was open and I

on the side and the pilot looking down

saw the bombs come out.”

at us in his helmet and goggles.”

While two bombs exploded inside the

As she started to run for shelter she saw

factory, the third ricocheted off the

three bombs falling. Seconds later one exploded nearby. “I don’t know whether the blast knocked me out, ‘cos when I came too I was in the shelter with

ground. “It cleared the perimeter fencer and bounced straight into the front of our house. And everything from that moment was dead still.”

republished

recently

also the contribution of the women and men who worked on the munitions in both wars.

Ordnance Factory) project; and a campaign, spearheaded

BBC

Hereford

and

Worcester, is calling for munition workers to receive official recognition of their services, similar to that given to wartime land and timber women workers. There is still no official account of the Rotherwas bombing raid and no figures have been released of who or how many died inside the factory. Nellie recalled “a lot of casualties” and other workers spoke of eleven, 17 and even 25 killed. There is now compelling evidence of a mass grave

two girls.” Nellie escaped serious injury

Shaken and bruised the now orphaned Ken

for bomb victims at Bullinghope church

although her shoes had been blown away.

miraculously escaped injury. Tragically his

not far from the graves of the Hursey

“Tears were rolling down my face. I was

older brother Ernest, a pilot with the RAF,

family. The full story of what happened on

more suffering from shock.”

would die in a flying accident later in the war.

that fateful day has yet to be told.

One of the bombs hit a police house,

Ken’s and Nellie’s memories appeared

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Bill Laws

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golden years

Getting Help with Debt Older people and pensioners are among the worst hit during hard times and retired people are finding it harder to manage as savings are eroded and everyday essentials increase in cost.

thers experience money problems following a change in

If you’re struggling with debt, it can be hard to know where to

circumstances such as bereavement, divorce or being

turn but there are places you can go for free help and support.

forced to leave work in their 50's due to redundancy or

Here are some organisations you could try. All are registered

illness. If debt has become a concern for you, then it’s important

charities and offer free, confidential advice.

to take steps to tackle it. You may want to seek help if you are:

B Worrying about money. B Struggling to pay your household bills or paying them with credit. B Relying on your overdraft or credit card to get by. B Missing credit repayments. B Hiding your spending habits from your family. B Avoiding letters and calls from your creditors.

Age UK Advice: Tel: 0800 169 6565, lines are open seven days a week from 8am to 7pm, or visit the website: www.ageuk.org.uk. Christians Against Poverty (CAP): Tel: 0800 328 0006 to make an appointment or ask for advice, or visit their website: www.capuk.org. Citizens

Advice

Bureau:

If you think a friend or relative may be having problems try to

For

encourage them to seek help but remember that they need to

nearest

make the decision to get advice themselves. Being in debt can be

www.citizensadvice.org.uk.

extremely stressful and worrying, so just being there to support

online

information

Citizens

Advice

and

Tel: to

Bureau

0344

find visit

411

details their

1444.

your

website:

and listen to them could make a big difference. Here are some

Debt Advice Foundation: A registered national debt

signs to look out for:

advice and education charity offering free, confidential

B Hiding post. B Being unusually secretive about money and finances. B Getting phone calls from unknown callers. B Struggling to make ends meet. B Avoiding activities they used to enjoy. B Asking to borrow money. 52

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

support and advice. Tel: 0800 043 4050 or visit their website: www.debtadvicefoundation.org. National Debtline: National helpline for people with debts, giving self-help advice and support. Tel: 0808 808 4000 or visit their websites: www.nationaldebtline.org or www. mymoneysteps.org.

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golden years

StepChange: Advice is given via their free helpline or online via

Help with health costs: Everyone aged over 60 can get a free

their Debt Remedy tool. Tel: 0800 138 1111 or visit their website:

sight test. If you receive Pension Credit or have a low income then you

www.stepchange.org.

could also get help with the cost of a dental check-up or treatment,

ARE YOU GETTING ALL THE BENEFITS, TAX CREDITS AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT YOU ARE ENTITLED TO? It is estimated that every year 5.5 billion pounds of state benefits intended for older people goes unclaimed. Could you be missing out? Even if you have a reasonable income from pensions and other

your glasses, or even fares to and from hospital for treatment. Help with housing costs: If you rent your property, and receive Pension Credit or have a low income, you may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help pay your rent.

investments, it still makes sense to take advantage of any benefits

Our Information and Advice Team carry out free benefit checks,

or concessions you may be entitled to and increase your income.

they will explain each benefit and entitlement to you, work out

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. Below are some of the benefits you might be eligible for:

what you might eligible to claim for and help you to complete forms. They can also help you resolve consumer issues, and provide impartial information and advice about residential and nursing home fees, paying for care at home, tax, pensions, housing and utilities. If you have concerns about money or paying bills contact our Information and Advice Team before these become a long term worry. To find out more about our Information & Advice Service and how we could help you, please contact

State Retirement Pension: You may be entitled to a state

us: Telephone: 0333 0066 299 or email: contact@

retirement pension if you are not working, aged over 65 (male)

ageukhl.org. Registered Charity Number: 1093512

or 60 (female) if you have worked for long enough. The rules are quite complex and the minimum age is changing over the next few years. Our Information and Advice Team will be able to advise you whether you can claim. Pension Credit: If you are of pensionable age, living on a low income you may be entitled to the guaranteed element of Pension Credit. If you are aged 65 or over you may be entitled to the savings element of Pension Credit which gives you additional monies. You might get more Pension Credit if you have caring responsibilities, have severe disabilities or have certain housing costs. Attendance Allowance: If you are aged over 65, Attendance Allowance is a benefit that can be paid if you need help with looking after yourself. If you receive Attendance Allowance you may be entitled to an extra amount of other benefits for example Pension Credit and Housing Benefit. It is not means tested. Extra help for Older People: If you are receiving certain benefits and/or you are aged over 60 years you may be entitled to extra financial help in certain situations. Help available includes Cold Weather Payments and a Winter Fuel Payment to help pay fuel bills. Paying your utility bills: If you are having difficulties paying for your gas, electricity or telephone bills, you should contact your supplier and explain your situation. Most utility companies will allow you to pay off arrears in instalments and for gas and electricity you may be offered a pre-payment meter.

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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golden years

There’s never a dull moment in a Milkwood home! At Milkwood Care, we strive to provide unrivalled high standards of care in each

of our beautiful homes, located in Monmouth and Chepstow.

e strongly believe in the total well being of each one of our residents and aim to provide a personal, warm environment, where everything is set up and

driven to maximise their happiness and quality of life.

can regularly be heard floating through the corridors! At our Brecon home, The Mountains, popular mental stimulation activities, such as art sessions and bingo are accompanied by the opportunity to partake in more relaxing

Our rich schedule of regular and ad hoc activities gives

physical stimulation; hand massages and manicures are on

our residents the opportunity to participate in favourite

offer to those who like to enjoy a little bit of pampering.

pastimes, learn new skills, venture outdoors and keep their minds and bodies fit and alert. We have an enthusiastic and creative support team who devise a broad programme of entertainment and activities. Residents could never get bored with the choice of things to participate in, either within the homes and their beautiful grounds or further afield, on interesting day trips and excursions.

At Castleford House, located in Chepstow, in the last month alone, residents have embarked on myriad physical activities; enjoying a walk in the Forest of Dean, a surprise day out to Barry Island, an afternoon of ten-pin bowling, and even an outing to the local pub. We think to offer residents the chance to interact and get

Staff at our Ganarew home, near Monmouth, run regular

out and about in the fresh air, or embark on activities that

sing-along sessions and reminiscence quizzes that are

they may not have had the chance to experience before,

very popular with residents and encourage participants

gives hope, happiness and a renewed lease of life to all.

to keep their minds active and maintain their skills in

recall. Local singers and musicians often visit the home

We make sure that life in a Milkwood home is one filled

to entertain both residents and staff, and the music and

with fun, laughter and experiences that makes later years

words to old songs, such as Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll meet again”,

ones to look forward to.

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

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EDUCATION

Parents in England face paying a premium for Properties near top state schools

arents in England face paying a premium of nearly

of state schools with top GCSE results in 2016 were on average

£129,000 for a home near a top state school, according

£43,490 or 12 % higher than in neighbouring areas.

to new analysis. Properties near top state schools have an average house price of £415,844 – which is £128,615

or 45 % higher than the average house price across the country at £287,229. This average house price of £415,844 near a top state school equates to nearly 11 times average annual earnings, according to the study by Lloyds Bank. House prices near top state schools were found to have surged at a faster rate than the national average over the past five years

Homes near Beaconsfield High School in Buckinghamshire were found to command the biggest premium of £643,181 (158 %) compared with the average house price in surrounding areas. But parents do not always need to pay a premium to live near a top school, the research found. King Edward VI Handsworth School in Birmingham, where homes are typically £82,640 less expensive than in surrounding areas.

– by £116,696 or 39 % compared with £51,624 or 22 % across

Andrew Mason, Lloyds Bank mortgage products director,

England as a whole.

said: “All parents want to ensure their children get a good education, so it's not surprising that homes in areas close to

Lloyds Bank made the findings after comparing house prices in

the top-performing schools typically command a significant

the postal districts of top schools with the county average, using

premium over the surrounding area and high demand has

government data. It said property prices in the postal districts

led to prices being out of reach for many buyers.”

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Some of the A Level high flyers.

Impressive A Level Results for Retiring College Principal Another set of impressive A level results are a fitting

tribute to the end of Dr Jonathan Godfreyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 20 years

as Principal of Hereford Sixth Form College.

ver 56% of A Level entries resulted in an A*, A or B grade, significantly

above the national average and one of the highest for a sixth form college in the country. The overall pass rate was 99%. 73 students gained three grade

five grade As at A Level. Many first year students sat AS examinations also gaining superb results with 52.4% of entries resulting in A or B grades, over 9% above the national average.

As or better with 19 achieving

The pass rate of 94.8% was

four grade As at A Level. Three

almost 5% above the national

students gained a remarkable

average.

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

Win a Classic Spa Day for two at Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Teme Valley in north Worcestershire, you’ll find a historic treasure offering fine British foods and uncompromising relaxation in abundance. Indulge at The Elms Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, whether you wish to dine at the Brookes restaurant, enjoy a rather special afternoon tea, revive on a spa day or hide away for a weekend of relaxation for mind and body.

ituated amongst many acres

created by Head Chef, John Brandon.

of delightful country house

To enjoy a truly memorable short stay

gardens and grounds, with

at The Elms, consider our Christmas

views that can stretch into

House Party or New Year’s Eve

Wales on a clear day, The Elms is a

House Party packages, allowing us to

most inviting, Queen Anne manor

comfortably take care of every detail

house venue, dating back to 1710.

apart from the gifts. Alternatively,

Combining fine, historic splendour

non-residents are warmly welcomed

with

to our Christmas Day lunch, Boxing

charming,

homely

warmth,

there’s no better place to indulge.

Day Lunch and New Year’s Eve party.

And what better way than the exquisite

Cannot wait until Christmas? Our

spa? Tucked away behind the house

group festive lunch menu and our

and providing high quality facilities

festive afternoon teas are perfect

coupled with a range of Elemis

for socialising in the run up to the big

treatments, you can visit just for the

day – whether with family, friends or

day or as a hotel guest. Take time to

colleagues.

relax and revive in our heated indoor

Now

pool, indoor and outdoor hydro pool,

independently

owned

country house hotel, The Elms looks

sauna, steam room, ice fountain,

forward to welcoming you; perhaps

fitness suite and relaxation room. With

for a romantic escape, a memorable

the festive season looming, our gift

celebration or a little bit of “me” time.

vouchers might also be a great solution

Offering the highest of standards, we’ll

for loved ones that are hard to buy for.

work hard to ensure that you leave

Christmas and New Year is always a

us happy, refreshed and wondering

magical time of year at The Elms, with

when to return for more.

roaring log fires, festive decorations

The Elms, Stockton Road,

and crisp, country house gardens. Not

Abberley, Worcester, WR6 6AT

to mention the inspirational British

Tel. 01299 896666

dining, passionately designed and

www.theelmshotel.co.uk

Competition

To be in with a chance of winning a Classic Spa Day for two at The Elms, including a welcome drink, use of the spa facilities from 10am to 4pm, a two course lunch and a 30 minute Elemis treatment, please answer the following question:

What range of treatments does The Elms spa offer? Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: The Elms WVMN, PW Media & ISSUE Publishing Ltd, 2ndTWO Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 SEVENTY ¯ 2DP. T&Cs: Prize must beNow taken before 31 April 2018. Must be pre-booked. Over 18s WYE VALLEY OCTOBER only. Valid Monday to2017 Thursday only, excluding bank holidays. No cash alternative. Closing date for entries is 18th October 2017.

Answer: Name:

Address: Tel: Email: If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from The Elms please tick this box

New Early Years Facility Now Open Moor Park is really excited about the new Early Years Facility incorporating Tick Tock

that has opened its doors at the beginning of the new school Year.

elcome to the new Moor Park Early Years. Graded

programme of activities specifically designed for your children. Each

outstanding in all areas in 2016 the new Early Years

day a different activity is available; whether it is Mini Movers (a dance

facility has been designed with young children’s needs

class taken by a professional dance teacher), or Sports Stars (we

in mind. As you enter the colourful world of Early Years at Moor

believe that sports training should start early!), Mini music makers,

Park, the happy atmosphere and stimulating rooms reflect the

First French or Sing and Sign, the children will be fully entertained

children’s interests. The outside learning environment provides

and engaged. There is also a dedicated woodland school area, with

excellent opportunities for creative play and physical development.

a bamboo maze, dens, trees, a stream and mud galore. The children

The new setting is housed within the beautiful old stately home of Moor Park, situated within 85 acres of beautiful Shropshire countryside. Enrolling children from 3 months we provide age specific rooms, dedicated sleep rooms, which are skillfully decorated with under the sea and weather themes. These rooms are fully monitored and provide a safe and relaxing environment for your child. We also offer a separate dining area where we serve breakfast, hot lunch, snack and hot tea. The menus are specially designed and cooked by the School chefs, using locally sourced and produced ingredients. A child nutritionist is involved with all menu planning and can be contacted by parents if needed. Every child's needs are catered for. The new facility has enabled the introduction of an extra-ordinary

also have regular nature walks around the school grounds, looking at the ducks on the lake and finding deer in the woods. The happy atmosphere at Moor Park immediately draws you in. It is the sparkle in the eyes of our very youngest children, their sense of excitement, exploration and discovery and the confidence in which they approach each new day that confirms we are nurturing an enthusiasm in them that will, in time, become a lifelong joy for learning. You are invited to bring your child along to ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ Activity Morning on Saturday 7th October where your child can enjoy a range of activities. Otherwise, every day is an Open Day at Tick Tock, and therefore if you would like to visit, please do arrange a tour by contacting our Nursery Manager, Nicola Marshall on 01584 871510 or email ticktock@moorpark.org.uk.

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

Win a three tier celebration cake from Pollyanna's Cakes Fabulous chance to make your celebration extra special

nspired by her two young children, Libby

to offer fondant cake toppers for those that

believe that this is where the business

and Archie, Polly has been a baker at heart

are comfortable baking but are looking a

ends. Pollyanna's Cakes is also embracing

for many years. As she started to bake for

little help with the WOW factor- toppers can

different seasonal holidays- her Easter

family and friends it occured to her that this

be posted out making it even easier for you.

offerings cleared her stall at a local point to

was her passion and, seeing a gap in the

The cupcakes make a lovely present, Polly's

point within hours but then who wouldn't

market, and area for cost effective celebration

kitchen was filled with thank you messages

want a creme egg scotch egg! Looking for

cakes- Pollyanna's Cakes was born! Based in

in icing for teachers in the run up to the

edible Christmas Tree ornaments for the

Newent Polly is perfectly located for cake

summer holidays- they went down so well

kids to decorate- you know who to call!

collection from Herefordshire, Malvern and

that Christmas orders have started to hit the

Gloucestershire- although in the Summer

And last but by no means least Polly also

diary!

offers wedding cake taster days with

If this wasn't enough with 2 small children

prosecco and a smorgasbord of cakes

she did have a Wedding cake that made it all the way to London!

at home, Polly has recently started

available to chose from, the day is free so pop along with your fiance and pick

Working from descriptions or pictures, Polly

offering tray bakes! Brownies, flapjacks,

is an artist of the cake world with many repeat

custard cream blondies and millionaires

orders. Offering everything from cupcakes to

shortbread to name a few available for

T: 07540 860088

wedding cakes there really isn't an occasion

businesses, parties and sold at fetes

E: pollyannascakes@outlook.com

she can't cater for and has recently started

and country fairs in the area. You could

FACEBOOK: Pollyannascakes

Competition

For your chance to win a three tier sponge cake, 10", 8", 6" for a celebration (not wedding) from Pollyanna's Cakes, simply fill out the entry form with the correct answer to the following question:

Answer: Name:

Where did Pollyanna's Cakes deliver a wedding cake to this summer?

Address:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Pollyanna's Cakes, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 18th October 2017. T&C's: One 3 tier sponge cake, 10", 8", 6" for a celebration (not wedding). Two weeks notice must be given and the cake must be collected. ISSUE SEVENTY TWO

Tel:

ÂŻ WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

your tiers!

Email:

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

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE RETURNS TO HEREFORD After a hiatus of three years, an official Tourist Information Centre (TIC) is returning to the city and will be situated in Hereford Butter Market.

he brand-new TIC is the result of an exciting collaboration

the new Owners of the Butter Market to support this new

between Visit Herefordshire, Hereford City Council and Liz

venture.

Hill, Owner of Rural Concierge travel company.

“The Butter Market is one of our iconic buildings and is a

Andy Black, Tourism Officer at Visit Herefordshire, said: “This is

superb setting for what promises to be a really valuable

a big win both for us and the City Council. It will enable us to

service. We have already had compliments about Rural

concentrate on our core activities of promoting the county to

Concierge and the service they are supplying and we look

the rest of the country and the international visitor market.

forward positively to the growth of this service.”

“We currently organise press visits and provide content for

Liz Hill, Owner of Rural Concierge, explains: “We at Rural

print and digital media, but we will now have more opportunity

Concierge are thrilled to be officially utilising our local

to organise high profile events including music and film.

knowledge and skills to assist tourists visiting the city and

“We have also been working closely with our distributor, Glide Media, to increase the number of information points available throughout the county, including a new display area in De Koffie Pot. With new city signage due to be installed by Hereford BID this will mark a new era in tourism for the city.” Steve Kerry, Town Clerk for the City of Hereford, added: “The City Council were horrified when the former TIC closed so abruptly just before Three Choirs week in Hereford. We have been very pleased to work with Rural Concierge and

surrounding areas. Since operating a voluntarily service for two years, we have received vital feedback to prove just how important it is to run a successful tourism hub within Hereford City Centre. Providing this facility encourages visitors to stay for longer and therefore spend more money in our local economy”. The new Tourist Information Centre will be officially opened by the Mayor of Hereford on Saturday 21 October at 11.00am. To find out more, please visit www.visitherefordshire.co.uk.

Hergest Croft Gardens - Plant Fair Come and look at the brilliant autumn colour and find a wide array of fascinating plants to buy. Hergest Croft Gardens’ autumn colour will be stunning and its wide range of maples should be glowing in the sunlight. Garden Walks start at 2pm.

Croft

supports for your plants, or

stand there will also be

the

Hergest

garden benches to relax in

some unusual trees and

after your work planting your

shrubs especially propagated

treasures or even looking at

to plant in the garden but

the birds on your new bird

available at the Plant Fair.

table.

Over 14 stands in the park

Following these temptations

will be selling an enormous range of specialist plants for all gardens; from cacti (suitable for window boxes) to rare trees, shrubs with many foliage interest, perennials and one stand has trees and shrubs which you can eat, some from the Jurassic period.

you can visit a wide range of craft stalls - from Harris Tweed clothing to wonderful alpaca knitted garments; from handbags to ponchos; from pottery to plant illustrations what else do you need. Woodthorpe Preserves

will

have

enormous range of all kinds of exotic preserves with many of

Once your appetite for plants

the ingredients coming from

is complete look at the range

the garden. We hope to see

of sundries such as iron-work

you at the Plant Fair. @WYEVALLEYNOW FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.NOWMAGAZINES.co.uk

OUR EVENTS DIARY

OCTOBER Tuesday 3rd

Broad Street Hereford

Saturday 7TH – Sunday 8TH

HR4 9AU

Apple Weekend

Cost: £2.00

Berrington Hall

Royal Opera House:

Leominster

La Boheme

Saturday 7TH

HR6 0DW

Richard Booth’s Bookshop Cinema

80s Vinyl Disco

Contact: 01568 615721

Brook Street

Left Bank

Cost: Free, admission charges apply

Hay on Wye

Bridge Street

HR3 5AA

Hereford

Wednesday 11TH

Cost: £18.00

HR4 9DG

The Knights Templar: A

Contact: 01497 822010

Cost: £10.00

Talk by Gil Mchattie

Contact: 01432 361050

The Village Hall

Wednesday 4TH

Linton

The History of Spies :

Pop Up Opera: Hansel

Ross-on-Wye

A Talk by Bob Skelt

and Gretel

HR9 7RX

The Village Hall

Black Mountains Barns

Cost: £2 Members, £3 Non Members

Linton

Lower Hunt House

Tel: 01989 780634

Ross-on-Wye

Clodock

HR9 7RX

Longtown

Thursday 12TH

Cost: £2 Members, £3 Non Members

Herefordshire

Kathryn Roberts &

Contact: 01989 780634

HR2 0PD

Sean Lakeman

Cost: £35

Courtyard Theatre

Contact: 01873860358

Edgar Street

The History of Man and the Ash Tree

Hereford

Escleyside Hall

Soil, Soul and Society

Cost: £15, concession £12

Michaelchurch Escley

by Satish Kumar

Contact: 01789 403493

Hereford

The Bleddfa Centre

HR2 0PT

Bleddfa

Uchenna Dance: The

Contact: 01981 550882

near Knighton

Head Wrap Diaries

LD7 1PA G

SpArC Theatre

John Dougherty

Cost: Free - booking essential

Brampton Rd

Hereford Library

Contact: 01547 550377

Bishops Castle

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

WYE VALLEY we ARE NOW delivering even

N W

more copies to more homes and are now looking for MORE distributors

If you live in THIS area and are interested in earning extra CASH please contact: LEDBURY Suzie Scott Tel: 01905 727904 | suzie@pw-media.co.uk

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

OUR EVENTS DIARY

SY9 5AY G

Celebrating English apples and cider

Harvest Celebration

Cost: Adults £10, under 18s £7

in the 29th year of the Big Apple. A

Supper & Tour

Contact: 01588 630321

great chance to enjoy the autumn

The Bounds

countryside around Much Marcle.

Much Marcle

Contact: www.bigapple.org.uk

Ledbury

Discovering David Garrick Museum Resource & Learning Centre

Herefordshire

58 Friar Street

Sunday 15TH

HR8 2NQ

Hereford

Antiques and Decorative Fair

Cost: £23 per person

HR4 0AS

Burton Court

Contact: 01531 660108

Cost: £8.00

Eardisland

Contact: 01432 383593

Leominster

Monday 21ST

HR6 9DN

Eardisland Quality Craft Fair

Friday 13TH

Cost: £4

The Church of St Mary the Virgin

Paul Zerdin

Contact: 01544 388222

Church Lane

The Courtyard

Eardisland

Edgar Street

Wednesday 18TH

Leominster

Hereford

The Age of Rococo –

HR6 9BP

HR4 9JR

Its Origin/Time

Contact: 01544 388097

Cost: £19.50

The Village Hall

Contact: 01789 403493

Linton

Friday 27TH

Ross-on-Wye

Big Pink Music Quiz

Saturday 14TH

HR9 7RX

Left Bank

Wild Foods UK: Autumn

Cost: £2 members, £3 Non Members

Bridge Street

Foraging Course

Tel: 01989 780634 or

Hereford

The Farmers Arms

E-mail: Brockswoodfs@yahoo.co.uk

HR4 9DG

Horse Road Wellington Heath

Andy Parsons: Peak Bullsh*t

Herefordshire

The Courtyard

HR8 1LS

Edgar Street

Saturday 28TH

Cost: £45/£22.50 under 16s

Hereford

Halloween Fest

Contact: 01531 634776

HR4 9JR

New Street

Cost: £16.00

Ledbury

Contact: 01432340555

HR8 2DX

Saturday 14TH – Sunday 15TH Harvestime Weekend

Cost: £20 per team of four

ISSUE SEVENTY¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017

Contact: 01432 357753

Cost: Free

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

ISSUE SEVENTYÂ¯TWO WYE VALLEY Now OCTOBER 2017