County Woman July 2016 by Reviewmedia

FASHION * BEAUTY * EVENTS * PROPERTY * ENTERTAINMENT * PEOPLE

COUNTY ISSUE 38 JULY 2016 made in shropshire

homefirst

ON THE

RUNWAY TAKE OFF IN STYLE

JULY 2016

BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU...

Joati before treatment

Joati after treatment

with only

35 weeks of treatment!

JOATI LOST

7st 4lbs

Alevere Therapy is a revolution in the medical treatment of excessive weight & body shape problems

ALEVERE CLINICS NATIONWIDE Alevere Shrewsbury, Sterling Clinics Group Ltd, Sterling House, Sitka Drive, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury SY2 6LG.

tel: 01743 361430

www.sterlingclinics.co.uk

CONTENTS

JULY 2016 ISSUE 38 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/COUNTYWOMAN

ummertime, and the living is easy…

So this July, take it easy with County

Woman. We’ve fashion to keep you cool and stylish at the airport, plus the must-have offthe-shoulder trend. And find out how to fake tan successfully – by far the safest way to get

that sunkissed look. Rustle up some healthy and tasty treats with seasonal berries,

and wash it down with a G&T – using Shropshire gin, of course! While we always bring you the latest fashion, some women prefer to take their style cues from the past, and this month we meet a teenager with a passion for all things 1950s. Other Shropshire women whose stories we bring you in this edition are the former horsewoman who changed her career after a riding accident, and a photographer who specialises in the cutest baby pictures – we challenge you not to say ‘ahhh’! Whether you’re reading County Woman in your deckchair or while waiting undercover for the showers to ease off, we hope to add a little ray of sunshine to your day.

WOMAN 5

Objects of Desire

Fashion – Come fly with me

Beauty – Fake tan

Fashion – Off the shoulder

COMMUNITY 44

1950s style

Photographer Laura Stanley

Lawyer Christine McNeish

LEISURE 31

Events listings

Shrewsbury Folk Festival

HOMEFIRST 14 23

EDITOR

Interiors – The great outdoors

18 Homes Down to Earth

FOOD + DRINK 51

Berry recipes

Shropshire Gin

MARKETPLACE 58

Travel – Crete

Six of the Best – fun in the sun

COMPETITIONS 64

Win tickets and vouchers

LAST WORD 66

And finally – Alison Ashmore

The reproduction of any material in this magazine by means of electronic, photographic or print process is strictly forbidden without prior permission of the company. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the company. Advertisements contained within this magazine are subject to the normal terms and conditions of the company, copies of which are available on request. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all information published herein but the company can in no way accept liability for omissions or incorrect insertions or any consequences arising therefrom nor can the company accept liability or responsibility for any consequence arising from use of this publication. The paper used for this magazine is a recyclable and renewable product that has been produced from wood grown in sustainable forests. The mills producing the paper all have third-party verified management systems such as ISO 14001, as well as Chain-of-Custody certification. © REVIEWMEDIA LTD 2016 All rights reserved. ISSN 2053-5449

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

JULY 2016

FASHION * BEAUTY * EVENTS * PROPERTY * ENTERTAINMENT * PEOPLE

COUNTY homefirst

ISSUE 38 JULY 2016 made in shropshire

ON THE

RUNWAY TAKE OFF IN STYLE

COVER: It’s the start of the holiday season! MANAGING DIRECTOR AND PUBLISHER: Martin Edwards contact: 01746 766848 medwards@reviewmedia.com EDITOR: Alison Ashmore aashmore@reviewmedia.com assistant editor: Justine Flavell jflavell@reviewmedia.com fashion and beauty: Robyn Moore rmoore@reviewmedia.com features: Eluned Watson production and design: Aileen Selkirk aselkirk@reviewmedia.com accounts and admin: Anita Desai adesai@reviewmedia.com ADVERTISING SALES: Advertisement Manager: David Lee-Birch dleebirch@reviewmedia.com Paul Kirkpatrick pkirkpatrick@reviewmedia.com Tracy Leonard tleonard@reviewmedia.com

Published by

Reviewmedia Ltd. Media House Building 9 Stanmore Industrial Estate Bridgnorth Shropshire WV15 5HP

Member of Professional Publishers Association

JULY 2016

WISH LIST

8 OF OUR FAVOURITE FINDS THIS MONTH

1 4

of Desire

Objects

6 7

5 8

Unleash your inner hippy and have some festival fun 1. Pure Scents natural shampoo and body bar, £5 from Enjoy! Peponi, Shrewsbury Great for when you are on the move, this lemongrass, mint and tea tree bar is chemical free and can be used in the sea and rivers. 2. Cosmic pendant by Debbie Williams, £35 from www.buy-from.com/shropshire Handmade in Shropshire, pendant has layers of opaque and transparent enamel, reflecting shades and depths of the universe, on a black leather thong. 3. Festival/shopper bag from Roobarb in Bridgnorth or www.LoveRoobarb.co.uk Hand stitched, inner lined Aztec style bag perfect for that festival weekend. 4. Mini Moderns Whitby enamel mug, £9 from quinceliving.co.uk Enamelware mug brings a touch of the coast and is perfect for outdoor living. 5. Ditsy Garden portable charger, dotcomgiftshop, £9.95 Charge all your devices on the go. 6. Six strand wrap bracelet from Vinegar Hill, £14.99 Faux suede with crystal details, here in maroon. 7. Multi braid visor from Accessorize, £15 Keep the sun out of your eyes in style. 8. Multi coloured coin fringe sandals £27.99 from New Look Funky flatties with toe strap.

JULY 2016

Get w

ith e l l a n d s t a y w e ll w

chiropractic

From evening to special occasion wear to stylish casual wear, Marianne Fashions has stunning collections from size 8 to 20

Better birth experience Keep focused

occasion wear

Healthy and happy

HALF PRICE EVENT now on

Supports development To a rr

ange y

o ur ap p oin t m

3 588190 e n t call 0 1 7 4

Call today

for a free initial consultation

4/5 Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury Telephone: 01743 233423 Email: marianne9799hotmail.co.uk www.marianneexclusivefashions.co.uk

New Park House, Brassey Road, Old Potts Way, Shrewsbury SY3 7FA info@shrewsburyfamilychiropractic.co.uk www.shrewsburyfamilychiropractic.co.uk

* We only sell one style of prom dress to one girl per school!

All ex-hire dresses HALF PRICE

Prom collection 2016 available now

Telephone for an appointment 07510 260648 37 Hills Lane, Shrewsbury SY1 1QU

www.dressesatjulies.co.uk

Exclusive Fashions

JULY 2016

WOMAN

Sunglasses, Next, £15

Khaki sateen V neck cami top, New Look, £12.99

y ﬂ e Com me with Travel in comfort and style

Black houndstooth ruched sleeve blazer, River Island, £55

Last month we brought you the ‘holiday shop’ which inspired you with the perfect holiday pieces including pool-ready attire. Continuing with the holiday-musthaves, this time we have your airport get-up covered. These pieces will keep you looking chic but also enable you to feel comfy. The cami top is an ideal way to feel glamorous whilst having room to breathe. Choose a bag which has pockets inside to hold your passport and money separately to stay organised.

, £28

s Selfridge

Shoes, Mis

Pom pom sa

ndals, Next

, £38

Autograph white top, M&S, £35 Team with Statement necklace, Accessorize, £25

Striped linen trousers with tie, Matalan, £16

Grey jeans with ripped knee, Matalan, £15

Mustard floral print trouser, F&F, £16

Dress £35, necklace £19.50, M&S

Yellow backpack with tassels, Debenhams, £45

Label Lab Olympia tote bag, House of Fraser, £80 Stripe jacket, £35, tee, £8, M&Co

ELIFELYTS

NAMOW

Stylefile Robyn Moore on this

Handmade skincare from the county

Jorg and Jenny Musch ner have been making skincare produ cts in the Midlands for over six years. Their shop, The Blue Lem on, is situated at 48 High Street in Shr ewsbury and is open Tuesday to Saturd ay. Jenny tells County Woma n: “Blue Lemon skincare is differe nt. We make all of our own products in small batches using minimal ingredien ts. “We don’t dilute our cre ams with water or parabens, min eral oils, alcohol or emulsifiers. We use 100% plant oils and butters and our gui nea pigs are all human.” For more details visit ww w. thebluelemon.co.uk

Blogger’s victor y

Telford Shopping Cen tre held its first ever ‘student blogger’ competition last month , which saw two entries from Telford College and New Colleg e Telford. The students took their VIP places on the front row of the centre’s recent Spring/Su mmer Style Show and then sub mitted their blogs. The winner was Katie But tery, 17, from Dawley, Telford , who is studying Level 3 Art and Design at Telford College. Katie’s winning entry has now been uploaded to the centre’s website. Katie said: “The blog writing competition wa s an excellent insight into the way fashion is communicate d through the media. “Through this experience , I feel that little bit more prepared for university, where I’ll be studying fashion design and communication, and hop ing for a career in the fashio n communication sector. ” All those who entered were presented with a £50 Telford Shopping Centre gift card.

month’s local fashion new

Zumba and Blast your way to your perfect body I

was invited along to Sally Smith’s Zumba class, which is a fun way to keep fit. It combines aerob ics with dance and the music makes you forget how long you have been exercis ing. Sally’s classes have a frie ndly atmosphere and newbie s are always welcome. She also holds a BLAST class after her Zumba sessions wh ich she invented herself. Sally said: “BLAST is a class that I created to focus on the areas my clients are always asking for.” Monday: 6.30pm Zum ba, 7.15pm BLAST at Oldbury Wells School, Bridgnorth. Thursday: 7.30pm Zum ba and 8.15pm BLAST at Castlefi elds, Bridgnorth. For more information, contact Sally on Sallysmithfreelanced ance@hotmail. co.uk or call 07866 834 507.

Hair care for cancer patients Deborah Hinton, ow ner of Rizzo Hair Salon in Telford and Shrewsbury, has told us about a new venture for the salon. Rizzo team member Ma rgarita has completed a course call ed ‘New Hair’ with Trevor Sorbie in London . Debbie said: “The course Margarita has undertaken means she has gained advanced skills that focus on cutting , aftercare and hair re-growth. “We decided to send Ma rgarita on this course so we could hel p and make the correct recommendation s to our clients and to anyone dealing with hair loss due to chemotherapy.” Debbie told me: “The Riz zo team is all about customer care and taking it to the next level. “Margarita can come to the comfort of your home or we have a room where we can help you try on wig s and cut and style them.” For more information call Shrewsbury Rizzo Salon on 01743 246 800 or the Telford Salon on 01952 223 422 .

JULY 2016

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Kerry’s service with a smile

seals the deal for Tijou family at Bowbrook Meadows

he high standard of service provided by the sales team at Bovis Homes’ Bowbrook Meadows location in Shrewsbury was a crucial element of Nigel and Catherine Tijou’s decision to buy a brandnew home there for themselves and their two children. The family have moved into a five-bedroom Oxford and are delighted with the property. “We like the look of the Bovis houses,” Nigel will make sure that things go through. It was explains. “They are more traditional looking and important for us to have the reassurance that it the internal layout is perfect for us. We like the would all come to fruition as fact that the downstairs of the planned.” house is open plan; that was The location of the a big draw for us, as was the “It was important development is perfect for garden. It just seemed like a very nice development.” for us to have the the family. It is close to the primary and secondary schools But it was the service they reassurance that attended by 13-year-old, Lillie, received from sales advisor and nine-year-old, Finlay, and Kerry Dolman and the team it would all come ideally situated for Catherine, in the Shrewsbury sales who is starting a university office, which really tipped the to fruition as course at nearby Royal balance for the Tijous. planned” Shrewsbury Hospital. “I liked the people in the “It ticked a lot of boxes for Bovis sales office and I liked what we were looking for on the house itself,” says Nigel. this side of town,” says Nigel. “We are absolutely “Kerry was clearly on the ball; knew what she delighted with the house. We have a lovely field was doing. It’s a big decision and you want opposite that is becoming a park at some point someone professional at the sales end who

soon, which will be absolutely amazing. “It’s really handy for us with my wife soon starting her studies at the hospital and the children at good local schools, and it’s a modern house, nice and light and open plan. “I hadn’t bought a new-build before. My last two houses have been DIY projects,” adds Nigel, who is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer, and often works from home. “We are both a lot busier now than we used to be and we didn’t really want a project this time round, the Bovis house had what other developers specify as extras included in the price so we have managed to settle in really quickly. We don’t want to move again now until we retire!” For more information about Bowbrook Meadows and Bovis Homes, go to www.bovishomes.co.uk

Pho to

Ruthin Castle is a beautiful retreat; steeped in history and nestled in acres of parkland beside the Clwydian Range in North Wales. Here you can indulge yourself with exquisite dining, unwind in our distinctive spa or revel in one of our renowned Medieval Feasts before sinking into a luxurious bed for a sleep worthy of a Prince or Princess.

RUTHIN CASTLE, CASTLE STREET, RUTHIN, LL15 2NU 01824 702664

Email: weddings@ruthincastle.co.uk www.ruthincastle.co.uk

JULY 2016

WOMAN

TOP TIPS TO A SUCCESSFUL ‘FAKE’ TAN Choose the safe way to tan this summer. With these top tips you can’t go wrong, says our fashion and beauty expert Robyn Moore

‘Do It Yourself’ I discovered Bondi Sands tan last month when shopping for a tanning lotion. After living in Bondi, Sydney a few years ago I was drawn to it and excited to try the product. I chose the light/medium because I am naturally fair skinned. The tan developed within an hour and I was left with a flawless tan which I could only ever achieve after a couple of weeks sunbathing on Bondi beach. Image 3: Bondi Sands tanning foam, available from Superdrug for £9.95

Step 4: Place the mitt on your hand and pump a generous amount of foam tan on to it. Step 5: Apply to the body using stroking motions. Step 6: Ensure everywhere is covered and leave to develop. Step 7: Wash off after full development time. Use a mild soap.

The Salon Spray Tan There are a range of spray tan brands which all develop slightly differently in tone, depth and smell. Sienna X professional tan has a range of different colours to suit your skin tone. The tan should last from five to seven days. When you book your spray tan, ask your beautician for pre-tan tips. Sienna X spray tans are available from Violet Sky Beauty, at Holland & Co, Bridgnorth, £17.

HOW TO DO IT: Step 1: Exfoliate your skin from head to toe the day before. Avoid using products which contain oils. Step 2: Wash your skin, ensure you are 100% dry and do not use deodorant. Step 3: Moisturise your skin focusing on areas prone to be dry, such as elbows and knees.

Step 4 tanning mitt, available from M&S, £3.50

IMAGE COURTSEY OF PRIMARK

Step1 La Maison de Senteurs Huile d’Olive body scrub, M&S, £9.50

JULY 2016

Find us within

OAKGATE NURSERY & GARDEN CENTRE

~ Luxury Cards ~ Yankee Candles ~ Willow Tree ~ Kitchen Ware

~ Wrendale Designs by Hannah Dale ~ Pet Accessories

AND MUCH, MUCH MORE.. ONLINE SHOP COMING SOON!

Oakgate Nursery Advert_Double Page Editorial 13/04/2016 16:05 Page 1

10% OFF GIFT SHOP & GARDEN CENTRE PRODUCTS WITH THIS ADVERT (NOT TO BE USED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER)

“For People Who Love Plants”

TEA ROOM Fantastic Multibuy GARDEN AND FARM SHOP Gardens open to the public Offers on Seasonal & Hardy Plants Opening Times:

Family owned Nursery & Garden

Mon-Sat: 9am – 5pm Sun: 10am – 4pm

~ 1 Litre shrubs & herbaceous – Any 4 for £10 ~ 3 litre shrubs – Any 4 for £20 OPENING SOON: Centre Est. 1988 ~ Alpines – Any 3 for £5 Presence Gift Shop! ~ Basket plants – Buy 15+ for £1.00 each A traditional nursery and plant AllSHALL offers subject to availability SEEK AND YOU FIND... Tucked away in the Shropshire countryside Oakgate

Nursery & Planted Garden Centre is a traditional nursery Summer Containers Now Available and a plant lover’s paradise. e beautiful gardens

are a delight to explore and they certainly set this www.oakgatenursery.co.uk small but perfectly formed nursery apart from the large garden superstores of today.

lovers paradise. Offering quality home grown plants at great prices and renowned for knowledgeable friendly advice. The beautiful gardens are a delight to explore and set this small but perfectly formed nursery apart from the large garden superstores of today. EVENING

DEMONSTRATIONS

How to prepare & ﬁll your hanging baskets, tubs and containers. Wednesday 11th May 2016 & Monday 23rd May 2016 Please call for further details

www.oakgatenursery.co.uk | Telephone: 01939 250428 Ellerdine Heath, Nr. Telford, Shropshire, TF6 6RL (signposted off the A442 and A53)

Visit our Tea Room and Farm Shop

The GREAT OUTDOORS

Whether your look is rustic, vintage or boho, the garden can reflect your personal style just as much as inside the home. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furniture to suit every taste, from a smart outdoor sofa to English chintz and French bistro. So this summer scatter some cushions, lay the table and hang up the lights; and enjoy some memorable days and evenings entertaining in the sun.

JULY 2016

15 HOMEFIRST

FACING PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Rochelle five-piece outdoor dining set from Next, £299; Square dining table and four chairs from M&S, £599; Mali corner sofa from Homebase, £599.99; A simple and stylish look for summer – accessories from The White Company THIS PAGE TOP LEFT TO RIGHT: Wall fountain £34 from This, That and the Other, Bridgnorth Mesh and wood bulbous lantern £49.99, outdoor candlesticks £16.99 and £18.99, from That’s Nice! in Bridgnorth; Henley outdoor mattress, £150, scatter cushions also available £35, from The White Company Glass bottle lantern from the Cottage Garden range by the National Trust, £6 LEFT: Hawthorn Tree garden table and chairs from British Ironworks Centre, near Oswestry, prices from £150 ( for table) BOTTOM LEFT: The Henri garden chair, £260 for a set of two from www.miafleur.co.uk BELOW: Peach daybed from Maze Living, £1,499

JULY 2016

LAKE VIEW RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME ‘Keeping kindness at the heart of our care’ “The staff have all proven to be, in our hearts, the best of the best and we couldn’t have chosen any better.” Daughter of resident

In our welcoming care home, residents spend their time enjoying the things they love; catching up with friends and family, being pampered in the hair and beauty salon, taking part in activities or relaxing in the landscaped gardens. Carefully chosen for their kind and compassionate approach, our staff provide residential and dementia care.

Living life to the full The team and residents at Lake View invited the community along to their regal inspired street party to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday on Friday 17 June.

Residents created beautiful crowns and tiaras to wear for the occasion and enjoyed live music from across the decades.

We believe in being part of our local community and invite you to join us at our free monthly event:

Dementia Support Group Every first Monday of the month between 10am and noon, the team at Lake View will be offering support for those caring for a loved one living with dementia. There will also be lots of information from the Alzheimer’s Society and tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. Join our next support session on Monday 4 July.

LAKE VIEW RESIDENTIAL CARE HOME Brookside Avenue, Brookside, Telford, Shropshire TF3 1LB

Tel: 01952 594 110

JULY 2016

Supporting People, Businesses & Communities

We don’t just sell time; we sell experience, expertise, know-how and results.

Just Jayne 10% OFF FABRIC AND LINING between 15th July – 12th August

First 5 confirmed orders receive a bottle of bubbles!

FREE HOME MEASURING SERVICE 0800 652 3371 www.lblaw.co.uk Shrewsbury | Hereford | Ludlow | Oswestry | Telford

Beautiful homes deserve and shutters too!

Made to Measure Curtains & Roman Blinds Roller, Vertical & Venetian Blinds Upholstery, Carpets & Karndean Flooring Wallpaper & Fired Earth Paint 5 High Street, Bridgnorth t:01746 766799 e: sales@justjayne.co.uk www.justjayne.co.uk

Beautiful shutters. Timelessly stylish beautiful blinds... and forever practical • Shutters offer a stylish and elegant solution that will enhance contemporary or traditional rooms • Made to measure they can be supplied and fitted to any shape or size of window or patio door • Wide range of colours available in wood or UPVC.

Beautiful shutters are timelessly stylish and forever practical

01746 768138 01384 877518

For impartial advice on all types of blinds, awnings and Book your home visit now on plantation shutters call Paul or visit our showrooms at: 01746 768138 or visit loveyourblinds.com BRIDGNORTH: 10 Whitburn St, Bridgnorth Or visit our showroom at www.loveyourblinds.com 10 Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth KINVER: 83 High St, Kinver

loveyourshutters

JULY 2016

HOMES

Shropshire ‘facing housing crisis’ A toxic cocktail of energy-inefficient houses and a rapidly growing population – that is one Shropshire businessman’s assessment of the county in 20 years time. Claus Best, who runs Smart Energy Services, based in Bayston Hill, has raised concerns about the lack of zero carbon homes and the impact a growing population will have on the county. Mr Best says the Government’s vote to scrap zero carbon homes rules, coupled with estimations that the county’s population will rise to 40,000 in the next 23 years, mean Shropshire will struggle. He says: “The issue is the downgrading of planned building standards. Insulation standards in the UK have been behind those in lots of continental countries already anyway, and will be sliding back even further now.  “With the new housing stock still being built to lower efficiency standards at least until 2020 this might well mean that the new housing stock will need to update its energy efficiency within the next 10 to 15 years after being built. “And the new housing stock needed is substantial to meet estimated population figures so this could become a toxic cocktail with wide-reaching implications for houses across Shropshire in the future.” The population of the county is estimated to currently stand at 483,451, with 171,044 living in Telford & Wrekin. But figures released by the Office of National Statistics estimate the population of Shropshire will have grown to 523,327 by 2039, with 184,484 of these living in Telford & Wrekin. It equates to a 7.9% growth in Telford over the next 23 years and an 8.5% growth across the rest of Shropshire.  Meanwhile, the Government has narrowly passed a motion scrapping the need for zero carbon homes. Despite being forced into a second debate and vote on the issue by House of Lords intervention, Parliament succeeded in placing the Zero Carbon Homes Scheme on the scrap heap with a majority of just four votes.

Mr Best, a specialist in improving the energy efficiency of homes and making them comfortable to live in, said the issue also has wider implications. “The Government had signed up to the CO2 reduction target of 80% energy used to heat properties by 2050 with a 1990 base line,” he added. “The aim had been seen as difficult to achieve before the cancellation of the zero carbon homes due to the massive backlog of improvements to the older housing stock, which will be still in place by that time.  “With the new housing stock still being built to lower efficiency standards at least until 2020 this will increase difficulties to achieve the aim of reaching 80% reductions.” Mr Best has worked across the UK and abroad, co-ordinating retrofit work, improving efficiency of already existing homes. For more information visit www.smart-energy-services.co.uk

n New homes should be built to high standards of energy efficiency, says Claus Best

Going, going, gone...

John Ridgway of Perry and Phillips Auctioneers of Low Town, Bridgnorth, guides readers through the world of antiques

Q: I have, over the years, collected a number of vintage china vases and I wonder if they would sell well in the saleroom? A: Yes, they would – but with all vintage pieces their value would depend on condition and buyer appeal! Maker marks are all important when it comes to china, some of the more ‘famous’ names will attract most attention from potential buyers. Vases designed by William Moorcroft, for example, can easily sell for hundreds of pounds, we recently sold a collection of these at auction and many bidders were keen to buy them. Some of them still had their original paper labels on them and featured the typical Moorcroft flower designs such as lilies, magnolia and anenomes. Royal Worcester produced a wide range of very beautiful vases, some of them hand-painted and again many with a floral pattern, the older ones are similarly

very much sought after in the saleroom. A vintage Royal Crown Derby Old Imari vase could also sell for a considerable amount (think hundreds) as could a Royal Doulton Lambeth 1930s glazed vase. Other names to look out for are Spode, Rockingham, Wemyss, Dresden, Limoges, Minton, Belleek and Coalport. Pairs of vases are really nice and there are various styles of vases that do well at auction in addition to the standard flower vase, such as bough, spill and cornucopia wall pocket. Check for signs of damage, such as chips, cracks or crazing before you get your vases valued – and do check for maker marks, as they may be crucial! Valuation days, for sale items only, are held at the Perry and Phillips saleroom in Low Town, Bridgnorth, every Wednesday from 10am until 4pm.

SPONSORED PAGES

How do you choose the right agent to sell your home?

our home is likely to be the most valuable asset you own, so when it comes to selling, it’s quite natural to take care about who you entrust to do the job. Appointing an estate agent can seem a tortuous process, with little obvious difference between the myriad of agents out there. So how do you choose? Ross D’Aniello, head of the country homes department at Nock Deighton, has years of experience in the property industry and has some useful advice for when choosing an agent to sell your home... It’s logical to appoint an agent whom you trust to achieve the best price for you in the quickest possible timescale, not just the one with the cheapest fees. As the old saying goes, if something seems too good to be true it often is. For their fee, make sure that your agent ticks the following boxes. • Do they have a good understanding of the market and can they advise you on the current market conditions? • Can they provide accurate advice on pricing,

As Red Adair famously once said: ‘If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur’ • Are they members of a professional body Ross D’Aniello supported by comparable evidence? • Will they just advertise your property, or actively sell it? • Do they have a proven track record in selling your style of property in your area? • Do they have the ability and expertise to ensure that the sale goes through to completion once a deal is agreed in principle? Nationally, 33 per cent of sales fall through, so clearly not all of them do!

such as the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)? • How well do you know the agent? A good agent will be prepared to spend time getting to know you and your property, building trust. As Red Adair famously once said: “If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.” If you would like more advice about appointing an agent, give Ross a call on 01584 875 555.

Fast turn around for stunning town house This classic Grade II Listed Georgian town house in Ludlow was snapped up within weeks of coming onto the market. The double-fronted property in Old Street, with bags of character and a pretty courtyard garden, was marketed by Nock Deighton for offers of around £340,000. Susan Northwood, manager of the Nock Deighton Ludlow office, said: “It was an extremely popular property in the heart of the historic town centre. “We had nine viewings and two offers in quick succession and the sale was completed within seven weeks of it first going on the market. “There is a big demand from buyers for properties of all types across Shropshire currently, so if you are considering selling now is a great time to do it.”

Modern converted barn retains character Meadow Barn, Lilleshall is on the market with offers around £515,000. Meadow Barn is perfect for anyone looking for a character property that offers versatile accommodation having the added benefit a private gated driveway, a double garage and a generous landscaped garden with countryside views beyond. The property retains its character having exposed timbers and high ceilings throughout while dual aspect and Velux windows giving an abundance of natural light and contemporary kitchen and bathrooms make this a modern family home. A spiral staircase from the living room up to a mezzanine is an interesting feature adding to the charm and character of Meadow Barn. Situated in the popular village of Lilleshall,

Meadow Barn is in an exclusive rural barn development surrounded by open countryside yet only a short distance from commuter links and the market town of Newport. The impressive reception/dining hall leads to the study, to the breakfast kitchen with a range of wall and base units and a central island/breakfast bar with granite worktops over and integrated appliances, to the sitting room with access to the garden and a spiral staircase up to a mezzanine which is currently as a snug/playroom and to a guest bedroom with en suite. On the first floor is the master bedroom which benefits from having built in wardrobes, additional under-eaves storage and a en suite shower room, two further spacious double bedrooms both with fitted wardrobes and a

Garden Cottage, Farmcote

family bathroom with a free standing roll top bath and separate corner shower cubicle. Outside the gated front garden is surrounded by brick walling with low maintenance paving stones and gravel with borders of shrubs and perennials. The rear garden, fully enclosed by sandstone walls, wraps around two sides of the property and is made up of lawns, paved patio area’s and a gravelled area with a pagoda. Wide well stocked borders are filled with shrubs, perennials and specimen trees. A shed built into the property provides additional storage while the detached double garage has light and power and additional roof storage. Contact Nock Deighton’s Newport office on 01952 570 222.

£499,950

1 Hilton, Bridgnorth

£450,000

A charming character cottage located in an idyllic countryside setting on the outskirts of Claverley village. Energy Rating- G

An imposing grade II listed Georgian detached home privately standing in a 1/3 acre plot. No Upward Chain

The Oaks, Linley Brook

The Mogg, Easthope

Greenacres, Tuck Hill Greenacres is a rare find, located in the hamlet of Tuckhill on the Shropshire Staffordshire border. The property is some 6188 sq ft with several reception rooms and five bedrooms. Externally the property benefits from 2 acres of gardens and a 2.6 acre paddock with stables. Energy rating- E.

£925,000

£450,000

A delightful two bedroom cottage style detached bungalow set in gardens and grounds of approx 1.2 acres plot. Energy Rating- E

£400,000

Attractive four bedroom detached in a sought after village location with excellent views overlooking the Mogg Forest. No Upward Chain. Energy Rating- D

Making the most of your viewings

Sort out who’s in charge of the garden from the very start

s we bask in the long, hot summer days (here’s hoping!), many of us will spend a lot of time in our gardens. But who’s responsibility is it to keep a garden in good order when the property is rented – the landlord or the tenant? Dawn Clarke, director of lettings and property management at Nock Deighton, says it’s an issue which needs Dawn Clarke addressing right at the start of a tenancy. She said: “Ultimately, it’s up to the landlord to decide who maintains the garden but the majority of landlords we work with give

responsibility to their tenants. “Landlords can consider employing a gardener to keep on top of things, or having a specific agreement so the tenant just has to keep the lawn in good order while the landlord has responsibility for everything else. “As with any other aspect of the property, the important thing is to establish the ground rules at the beginning to ensure there are no disagreements further down the line.” For more advice about lettings and property management, give Dawn a call on 01952 290163.

The Bothy, 20 Weald Moors Park, Preston

If you are trying to sell your house, getting people over the threshold to see the property for themselves is all-important. But how do you get more viewings if your house has been on the market for a while? Michael Nettleton, sales and marketing director at Nock Deighton, has some tips for how you can reinvigorate your campaign. Michael says: “The first thing to do is take a fresh look at your brochure – could you improve the photography or description? “A new photograph can work wonders, and trying a different approach with the description can reap rewards too. It’s a good idea to add some ‘human interest’ to the description - just tell people why it’s such a lovely place to live! “A simple but effective thing you can do is give your agent a call and ask them why you haven’t had a viewing for a while. “They are the professionals after all, and having a discussion with them is a good way to bounce around some ideas about how to get things moving. Finally, taking your house off the market for a short time while you update your package gives you a great chance to relaunch your property and get it back to the top of internet portals and included in email alerts to potential buyers.” For more advice about selling your home, give the Nock Deighton team a call on 01952 292300.

£339,950

Shropshire House, St Georges

£247,500

A unique lodge style four bedroom detached house with walled garden and patio areas. Energy rating – C.

Tastefully presented and well proportioned four-bed detached home with landscaped gardens to front and rear. Energy rating – C.

13 Norwich Drive, Randlay

14 The Dingle, Doseley

1 The Greaves, Astol, Shifnal Astol is close to the market town of Shifnal. This well presented cottage briefly comprises hall, ground floor bathroom, dining room, kitchen, conservatory, utility room and living room. There are three double bedrooms, study/ bedroom four (linking to bedroom three), en suite shower room to master bedroom and a family bathroom. The gardens extend to the side and rear of the property and comprise of a paved patio area, lawned areas edged by well established flower/shrub borders. Energy rating - E.

£325,000

£239,950

A well presented four bedroom detached family home situated close to Telford Town Centre. Energy rating – D.

£199,500

A superbly presented three bedroom mid terrace modern town house with garden and parking. Energy rating – B.

The Willows, Lees Farm Drive, Madeley £475,000

Wisteria Cottage, Muxton

This cluster of unique homes within Lees Farm Drive which is situated just off Glendinning Way just one mile from the world famous Iron Bridge itself. The Willows offers an abundance of living space on the ground floor with an open plan kitchen/diner, snug room/second living room, dining room and living room with impressive fireplace, large entrance hallway and a utility room off the kitchen, which has access to the double garage. Upstairs there are five bedrooms, two en-suites and family bathroom. Outside is a simply brilliant garden laid mainly to lawn with many trees, shrubs and plants evident throughout. Patio doors from the house lead straight onto a large outdoor seating area with steps down to the lawn. Adjacent the house is a gated parking area which would be ideal for a caravan/motorhome and accessed from the entrance driveway capable of holding many vehicles. Energy rating – D.

Situated on the fringe of Lilleshall Village, Wisteria Cottage is an extended Duke of Sutherland Cottage bursting with character features including exposed timbers, vaulted ceilings and striped latch doors. It offers spacious family living space, a generous garden and a large double garage/ workshop with extensive parking. Wisteria Cottage is approached over a gravel driveway. The hall leads to the family room with a wood burner and to the dining room with feature cast fireplace. Onwards to the breakfast kitchen with integrated appliances, the utility with guest cloakroom and access to the rear garden. From the kitchen is the sitting room with French doors onto the patio. A study provides separate work space. On the first floor is the master bedroom with dressing area. Bedrooms 2 and 3 are good sized doubles. The family bathroom has a corner shower and steps up to a sunken bath. Outside the rear garden is fully enclosed with fencing and mature shrubs, trees and borders. A paved patio with timber arbour and grapevine over provides entertaining area and leads up to the main lawn. The garage with light and power has a range of wall and base units, a workbench and roof storage. Energy Rating – F

1 Shrewsbury Road, Much Wenlock

£625,000

Culzean House, The Keep, Ironbridge Road

£395,000

Ivy May Cottage, Newport

£254,950

£375,000

5 Sutton Court, Sutton

£249,000

A high quality Much Wenlock Stone built cottage with five bedrooms and superb rear garden. Energy rating – C.

A stunning four bedroom house on an exclusive and secure gated development. Energy rating – D.

A charming character cottage with a manicured rear garden and gated driveway, close to the high street. Energy Rating – F

A delightful spacious single storey barn conversion. Energy Rating – F

Sutton House, Legges Hill, Broseley Wood

2 Troon Way, Great Hay,

Church Cottage, Moreton

21 Muxton Lane, Muxton

£375,000

A spacious four bedroom Georgian family home with delightful gardens and views. Energy rating – D.

£234,950

Lovely three bedroom bungalow which has recently been improved with garage and private large rear garden. Energy rating – E.

£245,000

A unique detached bungalow nestling in private gardens in an idyllic village location. Energy Rating – B

£175,000

A delightful three bedroom family home with a very generous rear garden. Energy Rating – D

JULY 2016

DOWN TO EARTH

n From left, colourful borders at Marchamley House; the productive garden at Guilden Down Cottage; wildflower garden at Bowbrook Allotment Community

July jewels open for charity

hropshire really does have some jewels of gardens and there is no better time than the long, sunny days of July to go out and about in our beautiful county to enjoy them. Many of the county’s best gardens are open as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) which raises much-needed funds for cancer and nursing charities. From north to south, east to west, across the county, there is a garden to suit everyone: what could be nicer than spending a summer’s afternoon sitting in a beautiful garden having a homemade tea – what a very British pastime! There are two opportunities in July to visit the acre garden at Ruthall Manor at Ditton Priors sitting amongst beautiful Shropshire farmland with views of Brown Clee (8, 29 July). The garden, lovingly tended by Lynda and Gerald Clarke, is a medley of unusual specimen trees which partition the garden into intimate sections, linked by recently extended, winding paths with some new planting combinations using rare and distinctive plants. This year, new projects include a redesigned vegetable and fruit garden; a natural stone path beneath the canopy of trees, which leads visitors from the woodland garden, under an arch smothered with clematis and roses to the shade garden; along with subtle changes to the eclectic pottery and ironwork. 48 Bramble Ridge in Bridgnorth has colourful, plant-packed terraces which afford outstanding views across the Severn Valley (17 July). This fascinating garden has many features to interest visitors: as well as its borders, there is a vegetable and herb garden and wildlife pond. Also open on the same day will be the neighbouring garden at 16 Bramble Ridge.

Between Bridgnorth and Ludlow in the beautiful Corvedale, visitors can find the pretty walled garden and nursery at Mynd Hardy Plants in the grounds of Delbury Hall (24 July). This warm, walled space is not to be missed by plant lovers looking for a delightful place to visit and have tea and to find that extra special plant to take home to their own garden. Also in the Corvedale is Norton Farm (1 July), now a collection of pretty holiday cottages on the site of an old farm. This delightful setting has been tastefully restored and planted with colourful summer borders, some in a Mediterranean style, heritage orchard and ornamental pond, all with far-reaching views over the Clee Hills. The NGS is well-represented in the north of the county too. Opening for the first time for NGS on Sunday 24 July is the half-acre town garden, Sunningdale, in the centre of Wem. Incorporating sculptural elements, such as a natural stone rockery waterfall, solar-powered greenhouse, traditional and modern sculptures and a koi pond, this fascinating garden is sure to wow visitors on their first visit. At Hodnet, the ever-popular garden at Marchamley House (3 July) will open its gates for visitors to admire its two acres with stunning views of the Shropshire countryside, complete with mixed, colourful borders, a vegetable garden and meadow walks amongst trees and ponds. In addition there will be an exhibition and sale of pictures by botanical artist, Mary Morton. The Croft at Ash Magna, near Whitchurch, which opens every Tuesday in the month for NGS, is ideal for adults and children alike to enjoy the sheep, pigs and chickens, pond dipping and wildlife: a great place for kids to explore – there’s even a Green Man in the woods!

At Sambrook Manor, Sambrook, near Newport (17 July), sweeping lawns, well-stocked borders and specimen shrubs and trees await visitors with homemade teas in the pretty courtyard with its collection of acers; walks can be taken down to the river bank: a lovely afternoon out. The magnificent double-herbaceous border at Goldstone Hall, Goldstone, near Market Drayton, is a wonderful sight in July (6,20, 27) with so much summer colour, shape and form, with the back-drop of this delightful hotel. Another Shropshire jewel is the awardwinning Windy Ridge at Little Wenlock, near Telford (17 July). The garden is designed around themes and spaces, and with over 1,000 plants, an inspirational place for plant-lovers. There are other jewels of gardens to enjoy in the south of the county. The group of 15 village gardens in and around Stottesdon will open their gates over the weekend of 2-3 July: this eclectic mix of gardens shows how people interpret their green spaces differently. Also open the same weekend is another community project which goes from strength to strength: Bowbrook Allotment Community to the south of Shrewsbury incorporates all the good elements of gardening organically and with wildlife in mind. The project proves that food can be produced in a sustainable, green way. At the far end of the county, the new NGS garden at Guilden Down Cottage opened for the first time to great acclaim in May (3 July). This one acre organic garden has everything! Beautiful borders, productive vegetable and fruit garden, wildflower meadows and ponds, sheep and chickens: a delightful jewel to visit in the wonderful south Shropshire Hills. Find out more at www.ngs.org.uk

The Real TRA RM FO

including

sales@bridgnorthwindows.co.uk www.bridgnorthwindows.co.uk

ME HO UR YO

THE COMPLETE SERVICE FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

01746 762855 / 769944

O UR N

Head offices & showrooms:

Unit 10 Livestock & Auction Centre, Wenlock Road, Bridgnorth, WV16 4QR

RTS HE

The teams, from builders to plasterers, were all excellent. In fact Paul the glazier was a real perfectionist!

27 743 / 01 OOF 995 365 743 NE R l: 01 D Te ER O 1 1J ry SY UND wsbu Shre IES Hill, hns PAN St Jo m: 5 OM wroo NC y sho sbur hrew Y RU ws S MIL indo th W gnor O FA Brid T TW VISI

Audrey Cooper

J E H

I would just like to say how pleased I am with my new bathroom. It’s beautiful and even better than I had anticipated. I would also like to thank Sean & Jason for their expert work and always treating me with respect. I would recommend them and your company to anyone. Thank you once again.

• BUILDING ALTERATIONS • PLUMBING • PLASTERING • TILING

Anthea Baker, Bridgnorth

BI-FOLDING DOORS

CONSERVATORIES SLIDING DOORS PATIO DOORS WINDOWS SOFFITS ORANGERIES FASCIAS

e-mail: info@bridgnorthkitchens.co.uk www.bridgnorthkitchens.co.uk

9 106

01746 761929

JULY 2016

Why go out of town, when quality at a great price is on your doorstep? The very best in quality, choice and service for modern and traditional kitchens and bedrooms

(01746) 768628

telephone for a free design and quotation

We manufacture our own units to standard or bespoke sizes DESIGN - FITTING - ELECTRICS TILING - SUPPLY & FIT or SUPPLY ONLY From start to finish a no worry no hassle solution. We also offer a revamp service e.g. door and worktop changes

VISIT OUR FACTORY/SHOWROOM BUILDING 11, UNIT 1A, STANMORE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BRIDGNORTH WV15 5HP

DJRutter building contractor

12434

SAVE MONEY NOW AND IN FUTURE WITH OUR NEW 36MM TRIPLE GLAZING

ESTABLISHED 1964 If for you fi less nd – w bette for the p e’ll b r ri qua eat lity ce for

ECO FRIENDLY

ALL TYPES OF BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN

   

ser | for p vic rice e

A family run business

WINDOWS CONSERVATORIES COMPOSITE DOORS ALUMINIUM BI-FOLD DOORS

• REPAIRS • NEW BUILD • PERIOD RENOVATION

t: 01746 763915 m: 07812 392407 f: 01746 763193

FOR A NO-OBLIGATION QUOTATION PLEASE CALL OR E-MAIL DAVID RUTTER

email: david@djrutter.co.uk

www.djrutter.co.uk

Tel: 01746 761631 Fax: 01746 768202 Mobile 07710 001020 Email: info@ecofriendlywindowsanddoors.co.uk www.ecofriendlywindowsanddoors.co.uk

JULY 2016

HOME IMPROVEMENTS ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Naturally new beginnings

t’s been a long and winding career path that has led Chris Nichols to a career and county that makes him truly happy. Chris, who has always worked in design, began Shropshire-based Decking and Pergolas Ltd two years ago, finally making the decision to go it alone and leaving a multi-national company, in search of a better quality of life. “I have a wide ranging career path but have always been based around engineering and design,” says Chris. “My student days took me towards architecture but one thing led to another and I finished up working in building reclamation and heritage sites for West Midlands County Council. There, projects included work for the Black County Living Museum including moving an historic pub.” After a spell in the bullion industry in Birmingham, Chris ended up working in steel, as operations director for a petrochemical supplies business in Wolverhampton. After 20 years, as a director in charge of 200 staff, he decided it was time to resign and start a new challenge. “I hankered after change. I often didn’t see daylight from one day to the next as my office was located deep within the factory. A couple of years ago, life took another tun and I was presented with an opportunity to establish my

n Chris Nicols combines his engineering expertise

with a love of nature to create life-changing gardens

own business, designing and building garden decking and pergolas,” he remembers. He began in his hometown of Solihull but has now set up in Shropshire, moving to Telford. “I spent a great many years up and down the country’s motorways and thought it would be good to get away from urban life and find solace in the countryside. “I’ve always had love of all things natural and this is a good place to be both as a business opportunity and for my new beginning,” he says.

Using his architectural design skills, Chris is transforming gardens across Shropshire. “I don’t just build decking and pergolas, I collaborate with clients to provide an individually designed, life-enhancing experience which can be enjoyed for years to come.” Chris’s only regret is that he didn’t start his business sooner. “It is so rewarding seeing a project through from the beginning to the very end. “Some simple decking can transform a garden, particularly a sloping garden. I can give customers a whole new outdoor space to entertain, or create a safe children’s play area. “It doesn’t have to be one vast area of decking, we can break it up with perforated strips, a pond, or a pergola to create something practical yet beautiful. “The first job I did confirmed I’d made the right decision. The couple said that since I’d redesigned their garden, they had completely moved their summer dining outdoors and were enjoying a whole new lease of life with friends. “Seeing the joy in people’s face when they see the finished project is so rewarding. This business bring me a huge amount of pleasure. “It has been life changing for me, and can be life changing for customers.” www.diggersdeckingandpergolas.com or telephone 07739 546167

Worktops fit for a celebrity home It’s not just television makeover shows that can transform a kitchen or bathroom in less than a day, says the owner of a Shropshire home improvements franchise. Richard Williams, who runs Granite Transformations in Shrewsbury, says that the company is a favourite with TV makeover programmes and celebrities. Their worktops, tiles and flooring have featured on many shows including Sarah Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare and 60 Minute Makeover with Peter Andre. “As well as producing a quality finish, our quick and simple fitting process offers huge appeal for homeowners,” says Richard. “Granite Transformations specialises in fitting materials on top of existing worktops, so you don’t have to rip your kitchen or bathroom apart. “The sheets are less than 7mm thick and made from 95% natural stone or recycled materials and 5% resin, so they are strong, lightweight and can be fitted directly on top of existing worktops that are starting to look a bit worn, tired or unfashionable.” “It’s the high performance polyester resin that’s the key,” says Richard. “Because it is tough

and light, it can be used as flooring planks and tiles, again fitted over existing floorcoverings,” he says. No wonder they have so many famous faces using their products! TV chef Rosemary Shrager has opted for the company’s kitchen worktops, tiled areas and floors for her cookery school in Kent; TV designer Linda Barker has had her reclaimed slate surfaces refaced with their work surfaces; and racing driver Sir Stirling Moss chose the business’s hand-crafted glass mosaic tiles for his Mayfair home. Property developer Sarah Beeny has used Granite Transformations products to help kit-out some of the 97 rooms of her historic mansion, Rise Hall in East Yorkshire, which starred in the Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare TV series. Yet the business isn’t just for celebrities. Homes across Shropshire have experienced the A-list treatment transforming kitchens and bathroom work surfaces, with minimum hassle and mess. In fact, the global brand fitted its one millionth worktop last year. The business, which began in Australia 20 years ago, has been busy, says Shrewsbury

n Sarah Beeny with Granite Transformation’s worktops in her butler’s pantry

franchisee Richard. It started trading in the UK 15 years ago and was launched at Shrewsbury’s Battlefield Enterprise Park at the end of last year. “The whole process is quick and easy, with many makeovers completed in just one day, which makes it perfect for the 60 Minute Makeover format and also for Shropshire homeowners,” says Richard. For further information go to www. granitetransformations.com. Visit the Shrewsbury showroom at Battlefield Enterprise Park or their display at Dobbies garden centre, off the A5. Telephone 01743 585988 for details.

JULY 2016

for a professional, high quality, personal service. We offer uniquely designed pergolas and decking to enhance your home & lifestyle, adding value to your property

FORE BE

• TIMBER DECKING • PERGOLAS & GAZEBOS • WATER FEATURES • LIGHTING • GARDEN LANDSCAPING • BESPOKE DESIGN & BUILD SERVICE • REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE • FULLY INSURED

“Detail by Design” ER AFT

Bright ideas for your home and garden For more information and to arrange a FREE quotation call Chris Nichols on:

07739 546167

BASED IN TELFORD – SERVING THE COUNTY

Email • chris.nichols@btconnect.com

www.deckingandpergolasltd.com

JULY 2016

DOWN TO EARTH

Each month the team at Meadowdale Nurseries in Telford will be offering you lots of handy tips and advice on how to make the best of your garden

The family-run nurseries, which is now run by brothers John and Rob Anderson, have been growing plants for the last 27 years.

July tips for the garden I do hope that as you read this the sun is shining and you are enjoying summer in your garden. As with June it is important to keep watering, once or twice a week should be sufficient. Drench pots well and water around the base of shrubs avoiding contact with foliage. Hanging baskets may need watering twice a day (I do this all the time throughout the season), especially if it is very hot or windy, remembering to feed once a week and dead head them to prolong long lasting flowering that will last until the first frost. During the dry spells ensure shrubs such as camellias, azaleas and rhododendron get regular watering as they produce the buds for next year now – if they become too dry this will prevent flowering. A big tip to remember is that even if it rains, it will not get in your containers or baskets as the plants act as an umbrella diverting rainwater away from the soil beneath. Encourage early flowering perennials to last longer by cutting them back to a shoot or leaf, give them a good feed and they will grow back to give you a second display of colour. Keep your wits about you, as you’ll need to be fighting fit for the war against aphids and caterpillars. Spray regularly with Bug Clear from Westland or Provado Bug Spray from Bayer, and pay particular attention to roses – aphids like to congregate around the buds and this prevents them from opening up into flower. If you don’t want to use conventional insecticides try using washing-up liquid diluted in water or Pye powder/spray for organic use. Better still grow plants to encourage hoverflies, lacewings and ladybirds, as they like to lunch on aphids. Keep your eye out for slugs and snails if it’s warm and it rains, they are sure to be out. Pick vegetables and fruits that are ripe or at their peak now, otherwise they can become bitter and woody. If you have too much, why not share them with friends and family or store/freeze for a later date? Pinch the tops off greenhouse tomatoes before they overtake your greenhouse and you can still plant out beetroot, carrots, runner beans and lettuce. Should the weather be particularly hot/dry cut the lawn on a high setting. Don’t panic if some of it has already gone brown, as soon as it rains it will revert back to green and grow back normally. Use a liquid feed to help condition it. Now is the time to relax and enjoy – get the BBQ out and show off your garden with pride. For further information please see our website www. meadowdale-nurseries.co.uk or why not visit us at our nurseries in Telford, where our staff will be happy to help you with any gardening questions you have.

n Chives have beautiful flowers as well as culinary uses

Grow your own herbs Create your own culinary herb garden with this advice from the Horticultural Trades Association

Try planting a selection of tasty herbs valued as much for their ornamental appeal as their flavour and your garden will look almost too good to eat! From sage to thyme, rosemary to clipped bay and flowering chives, combine herbs valued for their ornamental beauty to produce long-lasting displays as well as regular pickings for the kitchen. There are no hard and fast rules about creating herb gardens, but successful designs often define the space using brick pavers, dividing up the area with small paths to provide easy access for picking. Go for an informal mix or choose a formal pattern or cartwheel design. As a centrepiece plant a large, shrubby herb such as rosemary or sage, a formally clipped bay tree, or a potted herb arrangement. In small spaces herbs can be grown in pots, either planting them individually and grouping pots together into displays or creating bold combinations in larger containers. As many herbs have Mediterranean origins they relish a site in full sun where they can bake during summer. Soil must be free-draining too, as wet and waterlogged ground will lead to root damage, and for pots choose a free-draining loam-based compost.

Four hardy herbs for pots or borders • • • •

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Mint varieties Chives – both regular onion flavoured and Garlic Chives Thyme (Thymus varieties)

Top tips for successful herb gardens Regular picking some herbs, like basil, encourages side shoots to form, keeping plants bushy and productive. Pick and dry the leaves of herbs like thyme, sage, bay and many others to store and use when cooking. Coriander has a habit of bolting or running to seed, but enjoy their flowers as they’ll encourage beneficial insects, like hoverflies, into your garden.

Planting combinations Chamomile Hyssop Lemon Verbena

Greek Myrtle Lavender

JULY 2015

SALE

BANBURY 45%

UPTO SAVEUP SAVE TO 45% ON “A” D TE RA ON ‘A’ RATED INDOWS WWINDOWS

38 YEARS OF QUALITY MANUFACTURE BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURERS

BUY DIRECT FROM CLASSIC ORANGERIES

TURN KEY PACKAGES from THE MANUFACTURER AND SAVE ££££’S £ + VAT (Limited Trade Offer) 35 UP % TO OF F

35 UP % TO OF F 35 UP % TO OF F

35 UP % TO OF F

10,995

• • • • • • • • • • •

TO AN TRA TH D DE D GR E H OO WIN O 45 EAT MEORS DIDOW % PRIC WN REC S D I ES ER T AT S

Banbury have been manufacturing windows and doors at their Bewdley factory since 1976, and are renowned throughout the industry for their quality and value for money. Banbury products will enhance the value of your home.

SALE • SALE • SALE

GRP RESIDENTIAL DOORS STABLE DOORS BI-FOLD DOORS PATIO DOOR FRENCH DOORS PORCH CANOPIES FASCIAS AND SOFFITS GARAGE DOORS CONSERVATORIES SUN ROOMS ORANGERIES

UPGRADE TO BEST QUALITY COMPOSITE BANBURY’S DOORSPACKAGE FITTED inc. VAT GOLD from £595 GUARANTEE • TILED ROOF CONSERVATORIES • GARAGE ROOFS ( GRP) • FULL BUILDING SERVICE • PLANS DRAWN • PLANNING APPLICATIONS • REPLACEMENT CONSERVATORY ROOFS • CONSERVATORY SOLUTIONS - TOO HOT/ TOO COLD ?

Contact now to take advantage these limited offers VISIT OUR us LOCAL SHOWROOM - Allofour products are on display

For further information visit: www.banburywindows.co.uk FREELOCAL SHOWROOM - all our products SA FREE VISIT OUR areVE on UP display DESIGN SERVICE HOME VISIT TO 45% ON “A” OF QUALITY MANUFACTURE SHREWSBURY 40 YEARS BEWDLEY 38 YEARS OF QUALITY MANUFACTURE BEWDLEY RATED SHREWSBURY BUY DIRECT FROM Tel: 01743 344858 Tel: 01299 266527 WS WINDO266527 Tel: 01299 Tel: 01743 344858

BANBURY

Alton Works, Works, Long Long Bank, Bank,Bewdley, Bewdley,Worcestershire WorcestershireDY12 DY122UL 2UL THE MANUFACTURER Alton Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm • Sat-Sun 10am-4pm AND SAVE ££££’SOpening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

Heathgates, Shrewsbury SY1 4BB Heathgates, Shrewsbury SY1 4BB Opening hours: Mon9am - 5pm • Sun 10am - 4pm Opening hours: MonSatSat 9am - 5pm • Sun 10am - 4pm

•

35 UP % TO OF F

savingsare arebased based on on previous during December 2013. Photographs are for purposes only only AllAll savings previous prices pricesatatour ourhead headoffice officebranch brance during December 2014. Photographs areillustration for illustration purposes

JULY 2016

VIEW VIEWOUR OURNEW NEWWORKTOP RANGE Heritage Limestone Collection AND MOSAIC RANGE

Patio Paving from

£11.90 + VAT (m2)

QUALITY STONE FOR STEP OUT HOME AND GARDEN INTO SPRING... Make your home beautiful inside and out with our range of natural stone, patio paving, engineered oak, and porcelain & encaustic tiles.

www.heritagestonecompany.com Unit 3, Pimhill, Harmer Hill, Nr. Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 3DY.

the heritage stone company

T: 01939 290690 / 290772

OPEN: Monday - Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 10am-4.30pm

PENELOPE TIMMIS CONTEMPORARY ART

ALLERY IS OPEN BY

STUDIO/G

APPOINTMENT PENELOPE TIMMIS CONTEMPORARY ART

aintings, cards, Splash backs etc Studio/gallery open by appointment. PAINTINGS, CARDS, SPLASH BACKS ETC 7709342351, pennytimmis@yahoo.co.uk, www.penelopetimmis.co.uk

07709 342 351

pennytimmis@yahoo.co.uk

www.penelopetimmis.co.uk

Take your relaxation to

a higher level

INSTALLATIONS & REFURBISHMENTS • POOL FROM £3,750 • SPAS COVERS, ACCESSORIES, GAZEBOS, SERVICING • SPA VALUE, PREMIUM RANGE CHEMICALS • EXCELLENT POOL MAINTENANCE SERVICING • EQUIPMENT WATER&TESTING • •

01743 235 081 e: sales@spaslimited.co.uk www.spaslimited.co.uk

Shropshire’s Premier Pool & Spa Company Percy Thrower’s Garden Centre, Oteley Road, Shrewsbury SY2 6QW

JULY 2016

LEISURE

On your bike

On the tiles

The time walk

to Blists Hill Victorian Town

decorating workshops

with Feet First Theatre

� 7 JULY Rhythm of the Dance. Oakengates Theatre @ The Place

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please phone the contact number to check on dates and times. Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.com

Events July 1 July

THE MARCHES ACADEMY TRUST FESTIVAL OF EDUCATION The Marches School, Oswestry The inaugural Marches Academy Trust Festival of Education brings together leading educational experts to inspire debate and discussion amongst industry professionals. 9am-8pm. 01691 664407, www.marcheseducation.com

1 July

SHREWSBURY FARMERS’ MARKET The Square Held on the first Friday of each month from 9am-4pm.

1 July

WEST END STORY Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Take a journey through the world of musical theatre with top performers, vibrant vocal ensemble and talented live orchestra. 7.30pm, £19, www. theatresevern.co.uk

1 July

SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK

Shakespeare revue on tour, in conjunction with the JVR Trio. In Chelmarsh on 1 July and Bridgnorth Castle Hall on 2 July. £8 and £6.50, for tickets call 01746 764514.

1-3 July

THE BIG ART SHOW West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury A showcase of the best British art and craft. Family-friendly event with over 150 exhibitors, workshops and talks, real ale bar, poetry and live music. 10am-5pm, £7.50, under 16s free, www.thebigartshow.co.uk

1-3 July

CAMPER JAM Weston Park, near Shifnal Friendly, fun filled show with a chilled out vibe. Live bands, traders, food village, children’s activities, funfair and of course plenty of VW Camper vans. Weekend and days passes available. www.camperjam.com

1-3 July

KALEIDOSCOPE THEATRE: A SUMMER PLAY

the church will be filled with flowers and open from 10am-6pm. Stalls, raffle, refreshments, festival evensong on Sunday at 6pm. £3. Also Claverley Memories History Exhibition in the village hall (also 5th), gardens open at Ludstone Hall on 3rd.

2 July

THE MARCHES SCHOOL FUN DAY The Marches School, Oswestry Fun for all the family on the sports field from 12.30-5pm. Attractions include a dog show, fun fair, bouncy castle and stalls. Free entry.

2 July

STROKE AWARENESS DAY Whitburn Street Market, Bridgnorth Event organised by Bridgnorth Rotary Club giving people the chance to pop along and have their blood pressure taken. For details to go www. bridgnorthrotary.org.uk

2 July

THEATRE ON THE LAWN: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford Brand new theatrical production celebrating the career of one of rock’s great icons, Rod Stewart. 7.30pm, £19.50, www.theplacetelford.com

Sunnycroft, Telford Enter an enchanted realm of far-off forests and faerie-tale folk in this beautiful play with dance, music and mime. 7.30pm, £12, booking essential. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sunnycroft

1-2 July

1-4 July

2 July

SHAKESPEARE REVIEW

40TH ANNUAL FLOWER FESTIVAL

OPEN DAY

Chelmarsh Parish Hall/Bridgnorth Castle Hall Bridgnorth Players take their

All Saints’ Church, Claverley With a theme of ‘Happy Anniversary’,

Kinlet Hall, near Bridgnorth Rain or Shine Theatre Company present the Shakespeare classic. Grounds open at 6pm for picnics, bring your own seating. £13, £11 conc, £6 children. 01299 841230 for tickets.

Albrighton Moat and Gardens A great day out for all the family and a wonderful opportunity to

discover the types of activities on offer at the Albrighton Moat and Gardens. Join in with fun fishing sessions and children’s outdoor activity sessions, try your luck in the fishing competition, browse a variety of stalls, enjoy the BBQ and refreshments and explore the award winning gardens. 11am-4pm. www. albrightontrust.org.uk

2 July

QUICK COLLAGRAPH ART WORKSHOP Priory Hall, Much Wenlock Workshop provided by Much Wenlock’s Twenty Twenty Gallery, led by Sue Brown. This is a fast and furious platemaking technique using selfadhesive tapes and shapes. 10am-4pm, £85 including lunch and refreshment. www.twenty-twenty.co.uk to book.

2-3 July

STOTTESDON AND DISTRICT OPEN GARDENS Stottesdon, near Bridgnorth Up to 15 village gardens open under the National Gardens Scheme. Light refreshments, plant and produce stall. 11am-5pm, £5, children free, tickets valid for both days. www.ngs.org.uk

2-3 July

COAL MINING HERITAGE WEEKEND Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley A variety of events looking at the mining heritage of the park and local area, including talks, guided walk, Alveley Village Band and self-led trail. Booking essential on 01746 781192.

JULY 2016

LEISURE

� 9 JULY Queen Victoria Cyclo-Cross. Blists Hill Victorian Town

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please phone the contact number to check on dates and times

2-16 July

3 July

just listen. 8pm.

WENLOCK OLYMPIAN GAMES

BROWBROOK ALLOTMENT COMMUNITY OPEN DAY

5, 19 July

Various venues, Much Wenlock Varied programme of sporting events, from touch tennis and golf to volleyball and gliding! For full details go to www.wenlock-olympiansociety-org.uk

Mytton Oak Road, Shrewsbury Recipient of RHS National Certificate of Distinction, this five-acre site, comprising 93 plots, will be open under the National Gardens Scheme. 2-6pm, £3.50, children free. Home made teas. www.ngs.org.uk

3 July

SHROPSHIRE HILLS 100 SPORTIVE AND MARKET Bridgnorth High Street Cycle race and more, 9am-4pm. Handmade market under the town hall at the same time.

3 July

PORTH Y WAEN SILVER BAND Cae Glas Park, Oswestry A free event between 2-4pm.

3 July

WHITE ADMIRAL WALK/ CLASSIC CARS RALLY Dudmaston Estate, near Bridgnorth Join a butterfly expert on a walk through Comer Wood with the National Trust. 2-3.30pm, booking essential on 01746 780866. On the same day West Midlands Classic Car Club will meet in the orchard.

3 July

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL River Severn, Shrewsbury More than 30 teams from across the region will enjoy a fun-filled day on the river while raising thousands for Severn Hospice. Starts from Shrewsbury School boat club at 9.30am, ending at 1.15pm. www.severnhospice.org.uk

3 July

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.com

Black Boy pub, Bridgnorth Featuring Alan Barnes on reeds and Craig Milverton on piano. Starts at 12.30pm.

3, 17, 31 July

UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS: BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR Weston Park, near Shifnal Get a glimpse at what goes on behind the scenes at a real Downton. Learn about the Victorian 3rd earl and his busy household on a tour through areas not usually seen by the public. Tours start at 12 noon and 2pm and cost £5.50 in addition to standard admission. www.westonpark.com

4 July

BOOKSTART RHYME TIME Bridgnorth Library Stories, songs and rhymes for the under 5s. 10.30am, free event.

4 July

LYNNE HANSON AND AMANDA PEARCY The Hive, Shrewsbury Double headliner concert. 8pm, £12.50, www.hivonline.org.uk

4 July

ART LECTURE RAF Museum Cosford An expert from Tate Britain will give a talk on British sculptor Dame Elizabeth Frink. 2pm, free, book your place at www.rafmuseum.org/cosford.

5 July

ANTIQUE, FLEA AND COLLECTORS FAIR Ludlow Castle Square Fair held on the first and third Sunday of each month.

5-9 July

HEARTBEAT Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton For the first time ITV’s popular 60s police drama comes to the stage starring members of the TV cast. Tickets from £15.50, 7.30pm, matinees Wednesday and Saturday 2.30pm, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

7 July

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE Oakengates Theatre @ The Place An evening of mesmerizing Irish song and dance, from the disciplined Celtic Step to the sensual, ancient Sean Nos style. With world champion dancers, traditional Irish band and the Young Irish Tenors. 7.30pm, £22, www. theplacetelford.com

7 July

A COUNTRY, A TREE WITH AUTHOR JO BAKER Booka book shop, Oswestry An evening with Jo Baker, author of Longbourn and new novel, A Country, A Tree. 7.30pm. Tickets in advance, priced £5. www.bookabookshop.co.uk

7 July

OSWESTRY WINE CLUB Willow Gallery, Oswestry Wine tasting evening with matching nibbles hosted by Twelve Green Bottles wine shop. £15 per person. Book your place on 01691 650160.

7 July

BRIDGNORTH FOLK CLUB

AND FINALLY… PHIL COLLINS

The White Lion, Bridgnorth Everyone is welcome, to play, sing or

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Recognised as the definitive Phil Collins

JULY 2016

LEISURE

and Genesis tribute show. 7.30pm, £19, www.theatresevern.co.uk

7-9 July

A SLICE OF SATURDAY NIGHT Belfrey Arts Centre, Wellington This musical comedy by The Heather Brothers will take you back to the Swinging Sixties. 7.30pm, £6/5, www. belfreytheatre.com

8-9 July

SUMMER CONCERT – A DINNER PARTY Castle Hall, Bridgnorth Bridgnorth Musical Theatre Company presents A Dinner Party – an evening of food, wine and entertainment, with a cold buffet provided by Mike and Sarah’s Family Butchers. 7.30pm, advance tickets only from Mike and Sarah’s in Whitburn Street, £12.

8, 29 July

NGS GARDEN OPEN Ruthall Manor, Ditton Priors Garden divided into intimate sections with stunning horse pond and art garden. 2-6pm, £4, children free, home made teas. www.ngs.org.uk

n 9-10 JULY Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival. The Green at Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron

9 July

WREKIN RELAY CHALLENGE The Wrekin Teams of three race around a 3.8m loop of The Wrekin, hosted by Wrekin Road Runners in aid of Air Ambulance. 2pm, www. wrekinroadrunners.net

9 July

MADE IN SHROPSHIRE The Square, Shrewsbury Market featuring art, crafts and artisan produce, 9.30am-5pm.

9 July

SUMMER CRAFT FAIR Willow Gallery, Oswestry Showcasing locally made craft from a range of makers. From 10am-5pm. www.willowgalleryoswestry.org

9 July

CHELMARSH FETE Chelmarsh Recreation Field, near Bridgnorth An afternoon of family fun with Kickin’ Alice Dancers, Highley Colliery Band, clown, donkey rides, stalls and side shows, bbq, pig roast, teas. £2, children under 16 free. 2-5pm. 01746 862104.

9 July

MUCH WENLOCK FOOD MARKET

bikes. Gates open at 5.15pm with racing from 6-9.30pm. Spectators £3 on the gate. www.ironbridge.org.uk

9 July

TOM GREEN SEPTET The Hive, Shrewsbury Trombonist Tom Green has created a tapestry of rich harmony, memorable melody and scintillating groove in this septet which has received rave reviews. 8pm, £14, under 22s £7. www.hiveonline.org.uk

9 July

NEWPORT SHOW Newport showground A great day out for all the family, featuring Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain, thrilling displays, a festival of food and competitive classes. Gates open 8am, tickets £15/14/5 on the gate, cheaper in advance, www.newportshow.co.uk

9 July

MARK WATSON: I’M NOT HERE Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Multi-award-winning star of TV and radio brings his latest stand-up show to the stage. 8pm, £18.50, www. theatresevern.co.uk

Corn Exchange, the Buttermarket and The Square Selling a range of locally produced and delicious products. 10am-4pm. Contact Much Wenlock Town Council on 01952 727509.

9 July

QUEEN VICTORIA CYCLO-CROSS Blists Hill Victorian Town Blists Hill has teamed up with the organisers of Newport’s famous Nocturne cycle race for this event, which will see over 300 of the UK’s top riders speed through the recreated Victorian streets on modern

BACK TO THE 80S Weston Village Club House, near Oswestry Live 80s band and disco. Doors open 7pm. Tickets £10. www.totaltribute.uk

TNS FUN DAY

9 July

10 July

CANTIONES – IN THE MOOD

JUNIOR JESTERS/SEVERN JESTERS

St Silin’s Church, Llansilin An evening of Cole Porter and other music performed by Oswestry’s Cantiones choir. From 7.30pm. Tickets £8 (u16s free), refreshments included. 01691 238227.

9-10 July

OSWESTRY FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL Oswestry town centre The 10th anniversary of Shropshire’s most relaxed food festival. Celebrating the best specialist food and drink with some fabulous exhibitors from Shropshire and the Welsh borders. Free. www. oswestryfoodfestival.co.uk

9-10 July

IRONBRIDGE GORGE BRASS BAND FESTIVAL The Green at Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron Free family event showcasing some of the finest brass bands from Shropshire and surrounding counties, plus this year guests from Germany. 10am-5pm, 6pm on Sunday. At 7.30pm on Saturday, Brass Night of the Proms, a ticketed charity open-air gala concert in aid of Severn Hospice, £10, tickets from 07583 279608. www. ironbridgebandfestival.co.uk

10 July

REGGAE IN THE PARK Cae Glas Park, Oswestry Free event from noon until 7pm.

Cae Glas Park, Oswestry Lots of free family sporting acitivities.

10 July

9 July

Alveley Cricket Club Family day featuring the 31st Sixes cricket tournament, with bar, bbq, bouncy castles and ice creams. For details call 07709 902656.

CAMBRIAN BEER FESTIVAL Old Station Building, Oswestry Local ales festival with CAMRA. 10am-4pm

SIXES SMASH

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Junior Jesters is for children, parents and anyone who likes comedy without the rude words. With Andrew Bird and Howard Tead. 4pm, £7.50, family £25. At 8pm Howard and Andrew are joined by Rob Mulholland for the theatre’s popular comedy club. £9, £10 on the door. www.theatresevern.co.uk

10 July

BLAKE Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury British harmony trio Blake present some of the finest songs from stage and screen. 7.30pm, £22, www. theatresevern.co.uk

10 July

LIONS DAY ON WHEELS Bowring Park, Wellington A display of all things wheeled, from classic cars to large trucks, bicycles to tanks. Stalls, amusements, arena events and food. 11am-4pm, free. www.telfordlions.org

10 July

WEST FELTON CARNIVAL West Felton, near Oswestry Fun-packed day with a grand procession led by the Carnival King and Queen and followed by decorated floats touring through the village from the Punch Bowl pub at 1.30pm. Entertainment at the village playing fields on Tedsmore Road from 2pm. www.westfeltoncarnival.webs.com

13 July

FASHION ILLUSTRATION WITH CAROL GRIVELL Willow Gallery, Oswestry Workshop for anyone with an interest in fashion and sketching. 10.30am-4pm. £35. Book at www. willowgalleryoswestry.org

JULY 2016

SHREWSBURY FLEA WEST MIDLANDS SHOWGROUND

Gravel Hill Lane, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY1 2PF

Antique 2016 Dates

• Vintage • Retro • Salvage • Collectables

30th/31st July 22nd/23rd Oct

Open 8.30am-3.30pm

£2.50 on the gate - Over 65s £1.50 Under 14s GO FREE Traders Info: £35 per Pitch per Day £60 for Both Days

Outside pitch size 10m x 10m (approx) Inside pitch size 2.5m x 2.5m (approx) inc. table Extra table available to rent on the day for £5

10% discount for advance booking/payment Advanced booking is advised but payments can be made on the door on the day Card payment available - Free Parking at gate 1

Traders to arrive no earlier than 6am and no later than 8am at gate 2

Booking information available at: www.josevents.co.uk

£2 Entry with this advert

Contact Emma on: 07584 357 808 - josevents@hotmail.co.uk ERS S E OWEN HMENT S R VEHITCRL F E Y&R

: Entry tion na n o d 1 £ erso per p e gate h t n o

FREE EN

ERS S E OWEN ENT R SHM VEHITCRL F E R & Y

FREE EN

TRANSPORT RALLY 16TH JULY RALLY 2016 TRANSPORT 10.00AM 4.00PM 16TH JULY 2016 10.00AM

4.00PM

DO YOU OWN A VINTAGE OR DO YOU OWN VEHICLE? A VINTAGE OR CLASSIC CLASSIC VEHICLE?

Registered Charity No: 1003859

JULY 2016

n 23-24 JULY Cosford Food Festival. RAF Museum Cosford

LEISURE

12-5pm, £5, children free, home made teas. www.ngs.org.uk

17 July

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ Black Boy pub, Bridgnorth Vocalist Carole Westwood with John Evans on piano. Starts 12.30pm.

18-20 July

HMS PINAFORE Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury All male production; fresh, fast, inventive and fun. Tickets from £18.30, wwww.theatresevern.co.uk

19-23 July

GUYS AND DOLLS Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Direct from the West End, this sizzling New York tale of gamblers, gangsters and nightclub singers features some of Broadway’s greatest showstopping tunes. Tickets from £26.50, 7.30pm, matinees Wed, Thurs and Sat 2.30pm, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

21-22 July 14 July

15-17 July

SHELTER BUILDING

FESTIVAL AT THE EDGE

Wenlock Edge Meet at Presthope car park for a shelter building drop-in session with the National Trust, 11am-2pm, £2. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wenlockedge

Stokes Barm, Wenlock Edge A weekend of storytelling and music from an eclectic mix of artists from around the globe. Weekend and day tickets available, go to www. festivalattheedge.org

14 July

15-17 July

GUIDED WALK TO SIDBURY MEDIEVAL VILLAGE

SHREWSBURY FIELDS FOREVER

Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Venture out towards New England and Chorley before arriving at Sidbury on this 12-mile walk. Explore the deserted medieval village and return through Billingsley and Highley. £3.50, children £2, booking essential on 01746 781192.

Quarry Park, Shrewsbury Shropshire’s largest multi-arena live indie, alternative, electronic, dance and popular music, comedy and arts festival. Weekend and day tickets available, www. shrewsburyfieldsforver.com

14 July

SOUL AND MOTOWN EVENING

BRIDGNORTH FLOWER CLUB St Leonard’s Hall Church, Bridgnorth Enjoy a flower arranging masterclass by a demonstrator of national standing. 2pm, £5 including refreshments.

14-17 July

LES MISERABLES: SCHOOL EDITION Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Get Your Wigle On teen musical theatre group return with a fresh new cast to perform this musical masterpiece. £16/14.50, www. theatresevern.co.uk

15 July

GUITARIST CLAUDE BOURBON Willow Gallery, Oswestry Medieval and Spanish blues guitar and songs. 8pm. Tickets £10. www. willowgalleryoswestry.org to book.

15-16 July

POWYS EISTEDDFOD Oswestry showground, Park Hall Begins at 5pm on the Friday. Also an extensive arts and crafts exhibition on both days. £6 per session, £10 for two sessions, £15 for three. Primary school children free, older children £3.

16 July

Alveley Cricket Club Alveley Cricket Club and Friends of Alveley School present an evening of food, music and dancing. After a fish and chip supper enjoy the fabulous Chester Riggon who has toured the world playing with the likes of Ben E King and The Drifters. £10 including supper from 07778 760363 or 07973 678301.

16 July

HMS PINAFORE St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow Ludlow Choral Society present Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera accompanied by Salop Band. 7.30pm, £12, from Ludlow Assembly Rooms or on the door.

enthusiasts, passionate collectors and vintage vehicles. www. britishironworkcentre.co.uk

16-17 July

WENLOCK OLYMPIAN WALK Priory Hall, Much Wenlock Circular route starting at 8am from the Priory Hall and taking in 62.5 miles in 28 hours. The challenge i s over demanding countryside and moorland in the Shropshire Hills. In conjunction with Wenlock Olympian Society. Entry £20, go to www.ldwa. org.uk for details and to enter.

16-17 July

LARGE MODEL AIRCRAFT RALLY RAF Museum Cosford Hundreds of scale models of iconic aircraft will take to the skies in this annual event. Gates open 8.30am, tickets £8 in advance, £10 on the gate, www.rafmuseum.org.uk

16-17 July

KEN DODD Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury An evening of laughter and songs as Ken Dodd brings his Happiness Show to Shrewsbury. 7pm, £23.50, www. theatresevern.co.uk

17 July

NGS GARDEN OPEN 48 Bramble Ridge, Bridgnorth Steep, terraced garden overlooking Severn valley. 12.30-6pm, £4, children free, home made teas. www.ngs.org.uk

17 July

16 July

OSWESTRY STREET BAND

HARRY’S POTTER

Cae Glas Park, Oswestry Free event from 2-4pm.

Princess Royal Hospital, Telford A choice of three challenges to get to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital to raise money for charity. Walk or run 18 miles between the two, or take on a 35 mile cycle ride. £10, www. shropshirecharityevents.co.uk

16 July

17 July

CLASSIC MOTOR DAY Apley Farm Shop, Norton This year the popular free family event will include classic motorbikes. 10am-4pm, 01952 730345.

VINTAGE CAR RALLY

17 July

British Ironwork Centre, Aston, near Oswestry The centre welcomes fellow

Windy Ridge, Little Wenlock, Telford Multi-award-winning village garden.

NGS GARDEN OPEN

RUSSELL WATSON Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The UK’s best selling classical crossover artist brings his new show Songs from the Heart. 7.30pm, tickets from £37, www.theatresevern.co.uk

22 July

MP SURGERY Severn Centre, Highley To make an appointment to see Philip Dunne MP between 4.30-6pm, call the constituency office on 01684 872187.

22-24 July

GIGFEST Oswestry venues Festival of live music from across the globe at Oswestry’s Old Vaults, Golden Lion and the Griffin Inn.

23 July

MADE IN SHROPSHIRE Oswestry town centre Quality selection of the best of Shropshire food and crafts.

23 July

WELLINGTON MAKERS’ MARKET Market Square, Wellington Food, drink and crafts from around the Wrekin. 9am-2pm.

23-24 July

COSFORD FOOD FESTIVAL RAF Museum Cosford Bustling food market with over 80 producers serves up the very best food and drink the Midlands has to offer. Over 30 of the producers will be new to the festival, with entertainment and live music. 10am-5pm, £5/£4 senior citizens/£2 5-15 years, £12 family. www.rafmuseum.org/cosford

23-24 July

SEALED KNOT REENACTMENT Cae Glas Park, Oswestry All day event, free

23-24 July

’50 THINGS’ WOODLAND CAMP Dudmaston Estate, near Bridgnorth Join bushcraft expert Mick Cowles and the NT rangers for some wild

JULY 2016

OSWESTRY SHOW

Shropshire Horticultural Society Charity Number: 501564

SATURDAY 6TH AUGUST PARK HALL SHOWGROUND

Friday 12th & Saturday 13th August 2016

Flowers, Fireworks & Fun for all the Family Performances by the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment Musical Ride Friday Evening

Celebrity Gardener

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Sarah Raven

Celebrity Chef

Saturday Evening

WHITE HELMETS THE ROYAL SIGNALS MOTORCYCLE DISPLAY TEAM Sponsored by BOB HOGGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SHEEPDOG AND DUCK DISPLAY Schedules available from May and Pre Show tickets from 1 July For all details please contact: SHOW MANAGER, OSWESTRY SHOW OFFICE, OSWESTRY SHOWGROUND, PARK HALL, OSWESTRY, SHROPSHIRE SY11 4AS

Tel/fax: 01691 654875 e.mail:mandy@oswestryshow.co.uk www.oswestryshow.co.uk

Gizzi Erskine

The Christians

Call us on: 01743 234050 or visit www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk

IRONBRIDGE MUSEUMS

SUMMER OF FUN 23 July - 4 September

Tel: 01691 610952 Whitehall, Aston, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 4JH

Join in the Victorian street games & dip candles at Blists Hill Victorian Town and expand your mind at the special technology based Enginuity workshops.

www.ironbridge.org.uk 01952 433424

JULY 2016

LEISURE

BILLINGHAMS MOT&TYRE CENTRE TYRES

� 25 JULY – 2 SEPT Summer ceramic workshops. Coalport China Museum

at competitive prices

Call Bilko on

01746

762600 MOTORCYCLES, CARS, VANS (up to 3500kg) SERVICING, STEERING BRAKES, EXHAUSTS

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm Saturday 8am-12noon camping in the woodland. A great event for families, bring your own tent. Family £120, adult £45, child £25. Booking essential on 01746 780866.

23 July – 4 September

DINSOAUR TRAIL Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Follow the clues around the park and solve the puzzle for a small prize. Maps for this self-led trail are £2. Under 8s must be accompanies by an adult.

24-31 July

FINDING DUDMASTON WITH FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY Dudmaston Estate, near Bridgnorth A week of walks, talks and activities finding out more about Dudmaston’s hidden past. Some events require pre-booking. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/midlands

25 July

MARVELLOUS BEASTS Bridgnorth Library Join Zoo Lab for some hands-on animal fun. £3 per child, please book in advance at the library.

25 July – 29 August

SUMMER FAMILY FUN Sunnycroft, Telford Mondays only, each week there will be a different activity for families to participate in, from croquet to a spot of historic washing! 11am-3pm, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

25 July – 2 September

27 July

SUMMER CERAMIC WORKSHOPS

MIDSUMMER POTTERS

Coalport China Museum Drop-in family workshops for the summer holidays. Paint a china flower or fridge magnet, and join in with paper activities. Each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday you can model or sculpt with air-dry clay. 11am4pm, museum charges apply, ceramic painting extra charge of £1 and £2 for clay items. www.ironbridge.org.uk

25 July – 2 September

SUMMER TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS Jackfield Tile Museum, Ironbridge Family drop-in tile decorating workshops Monday to Friday. 10am-3.15pm, museum charges apply plus £5 per tile. www.ironbridge.org.uk

26 July

THE GIANT’S LOO ROLL Oakengates Theatre @ The Place Look out for the biggest loo roll ever on stage in this giant of a children’s musical. 2pm, £12 adults, £10 children, £40 family. www. theplacetelford.com

26 July

ATTINGHAM ADVENTURES: BUGOLOGY Attingham Park, near Shrewsbury The first Attingham Adventures holiday club. Look for creepy crawlies and make some bug crafts to take home. Child £5. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/midlands

The Hive, Shrewsbury Make your own rock pool, complete with seaweed, starfish and shells in this workshop aimed at four to nine yearolds. 10.30-11.30am, £6.50 per child, adults free. www.hiveonline.org.uk

FREE Wi-Fi

available while you wait

Unit 2C Building 11 Stanmore Ind. Est. Bridgnorth WV15 5HR

27 July

CLASSIC CAR RUN Tasley Auction Centre, Bridgnorth Bridgnorth Rotary Club’s annual classic car run sees cars assemble at 6.45pm for judging before setting off on a planned route around the countryside, finishing at The Down Inn. www.bridgnorthrotary.org.uk

27 July

TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC The Castle Grounds, Bridgnorth Popular family event with puppet show and other entertainment. 11am-2pm. Adults £1, children 50p.

27 July – 31 August

POND DIPPING Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd Wednesdays only, 11am-12.30pm, 2-3.30pm, discover what creatures live in the pond and stream. Child £1, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

28 July

CAPABILITY BROWN SUMMER WALK Weston Park, near Shifnal To celebrate the 300th birthday of Capability Brown, head gardener Martin Gee is leading four seasonal walks across the estate to reveal

FUN DOG SHOW IN AID OF GUIDE DOGS Saturday 2nd July 2016 Marches School Field from 12:30pm Dog show registration commences from 12:30pm. No pre-registration required! Just turn up on the day and register on our stand and we’ll provide you with a wristband for each class. £2 Per class or 3 classes for £5 1pm The Loveliest Lady 1:30pm Most Fabulous Fella 2pm Prettiest Pup (4 months-1 year) 2:30pm Gorgeous Golden Oldie (7+) 3pm Waggiest Tail 3:30pm Best Child Handler (children aged 9-16 years) Rosettes and prizes will be awarded to the top 3 in each class 1st place from each class will be entered into Best In Show held in the main arena at 4pm All money raised goes to Oswestry Guide Dogs Fundraising Branch For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/oswestryguidedogs or call Oswestry Guide Dogs on 01691 662644

JULY 2016

LEISURE

Brown’s legacy. 10.30am, admission on the day £6/5/3. www.weston-park.com

� 31 JULY Feet First: Time walk. Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please phone the contact number to check on dates and times

28 July

BIG BIRTHDAY PICNIC Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom A special picnic to celebrate 150 years of Beatrix Potter, alongside real life ‘Beatrix’ animals and local authors. 10am-5.30pm, wwww.hoofarm.com

28 July

SHELTER BUILDING Wenlock Edge Go along to Presthope and have a go at making an amazing den with the NT rangers. Child £2, 11am-2pm, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

29 July

INTRODUCTION TO PHOTOGRAPHY Albrighton Moat and Gardens An introductory programme for budding photographers to learn a range of basic skills based around the themes of ‘nature’ and ‘action’, both on location and in the studio. This is an all ability programme aimed at young people aged 11 and upwards running every Friday from 1pm to 3pm throughout the summer holidays. For more information call 01902 372441 or email moat@ albrightontrust.org.uk

29 July

OSWESTRY FARMERS’ MARKET Bailey Head Monthly market held on the last Friday of the month from 9am-1pm.

29 July

MOTORBIKE MEET British Ironwork Centre, Aston, near Oswestry The centre welcomes riders and pillions from far and wide. Contact Kenny at info@ britishironworkcentre.co.uk

29 July

BUTTERFLY BONANZA Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Learn all about these lovely insects; use butterfly nets to see if you can catch one and make your own feeder. Children £3.50, adults free, booking essential on 01746 781192.

29 July

SHAUN THE SHEEP THE MOVIE The Hive, Shrewsbury First in a summer series of Aardman animated movies. 4pm, PG, £4 per child, adults free. www.hiveonline. org.uk

30 July

PLANT FAIR Battlefield 1403, Shrewsbury Browse plants from specialist nurseries. Free entry, 9.30am-4pm.

30 July

TELFOOD FEASTIVAL

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.com

QEII Arena, Southwater Way, Telford With artisan produce from over 130 food and drink producers, music stage, free demos and free big top

with circus skills for children. 10am-5pm, free.

30 July

TESSA BIDE: ARNOLD’S BIG ADVENTURE Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton Taking place in a special bell tent, Arnold’s Big Adventure features beautiful shadow puppetry, original music and plenty of thrilling surprises. 11am, 1pm and 3pm, £8/6, 01694 725000.

30-31 July

SHREWSBURY FLEA MARKET West Midlands Showground, Gravel Hill Lane Antiques, retro, vintage, salvage and collectables. £2.50, over 65s £1.50, under 14s free. 8.30am-4.30pm.

30-31 July

VICTORIAN COUNTRY FAIR Blists Hill Victorian Town Go along and play traditional games on The Green with the town’s residents, watch demonstrations, and be entertained by the Prince Albert Players. Working horse demonstrations will take place throughout the weekend and you can enter your four-legged friend in the daily fun dog show. www. ironbridge.org.uk

31 July

CHARITY FOOTBALL MATCH AFC Bridgnorth, Innage Lane

A host of ex professional footballers, many from Wolves, take on RDB Red Balloon in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Gates open 12 noon, £2, children up to 16 £1.

31 July

FEET FIRST: TIME WALK – THE STORY OF THE EARTH IN A THOUSAND PACES Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton Walk through nearly five billion years, and learn how everything on earth has evolved from stardust. Feet First Theatre’s cosmic guides will lead the audience on a 1km walk through beautiful landscapes, bringing alive the story of evolution and our origins. 11am, 1pm and 3pm, £8/£6, call 01694 725000 for tickets.

31 July

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Arley Arboretum near Bridgnorth Critically acclaimed MacCap Theatre Productions return for an open air performance of one of Shakespeare’s finest comedies. 7pm, £13, children/ concessions £11, family £40. www. madcaptheatreproductions.co.uk

31 July

PUCCINI’S LA BOHEME Marches School, Oswestry Heritage Opera perform the classic opera, 6pm-10pm. Tickets £26 (students £10) from Rowanthorn, Oswestry. Telephone 01691238227. 6pm-10pm.

JULY 2016

39 FOLK FESTIVAL

Remembering their roots

t all began humbly enough as one couple’s vision for a small folk festival in their old hometown of Bridgnorth. But somehow – 20 years on from its first incarnation – it’s grown into one of the UK’s top events of its kind. What started life as the Bridgnorth Folk Festival eventually became the Shrewsbury Folk Festival. And – whichever way you look at it – there is just so much more to this amazing event than meets the Irish bouzouki. For starters, purists may feel that the term ‘folk festival’ is something of a misnomer as the event regularly throws the spotlight on artists regarded as more pop and rock. This year, for example, the festival features a trio of charttoppers in the shape of Nick Lowe, Paul Carrack and Andy Fairweather-Low. They will join Grammy award winning American singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash – the daughter of country singer Johnny Cash, folk rock band The Levellers, Eliza Carthy and the Wayward Band, singer-songwriter Tom Robinson, world music star Raghu Dixit and Show of Hands at the four-day event at the West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury, in August. The couple behind this extraordinary phenomenon – Alan and Sandra Surtees – founded the event in Bridgnorth in 1997 and it just grew and grew, moving firstly to The Quarry in Shrewsbury in 2006 and then to the larger West Mid Showground (its home ever since) in 2007. Sandra says: “Our idea back in 1997 was to create a festival that we wanted to go to and it’s been like a rolling stone ever since – growing and changing as we’ve gone along. But the basic premise has always remained the same. We plan and programme a festival that we would want to go. We book the names that people want to see like Kate Rusby and Oysterband and then add other artists from the roots and traditional music scene.”

The trick seems to be getting the mix right – creating a line-up that offers something for everyone. And this is where Alan comes in as chief programmer. It’s Alan who brings artists great and small to the festival – finding acts that will fill the big marquee and those that will offer a more intimate session in smaller tents. “We also like to introduce our audience n The main marquee, picture: Alan Cole; aerial view of the West Mid to bands they might Showground site, picture: Virtual Shropshire www.DroneRangers.co.uk not know like Molotov Jukebox, Nidi D’Arac or Barnstar,” explains Alan. families who come along because it’s their local “The irony is that we’re normally flat out during festival and there’s more than enough going on the festival weekend and miss out on seeing half to entertain every age range. the things we want to!” The festival also inspires an incredibly loyal Working from their home in Worthen, the following of people who return again and again couple are supported by a small team and a vast with more than 95% of ticket buyers having been network of dedicated volunteers. before. And some make the journey from as far The festival they’ve created now attracts afield as Canada or Australia every year. 7,000 people a day and some of the top UK and “There’s a magic created at the showground international artists. It usually sells out several every August Bank Holiday,” says Alan. “It may months in advance. sound cheesy but it becomes like one big family. Alan says: “The showground site is perfect for “People look out for each other, talk to each us as we can have everything on one site and it other and just relax and enjoy the simple things in gives people a real holiday feel. When we moved life like spending time together, good music and to Shrewsbury in 2006, we had a vision of what good food. we wanted to achieve and after our first year in “It really is the people who make the festival. The Quarry we knew the West Mid Showground It’s become one of the events that artists want would suit us perfectly. to play as well, which has helped our reputation “We could sell more tickets and pack people when it comes to booking top class artists like Richard Thompson. in like sardines but we love the feeling that’s “That gives us a real sense of achievement – created by allowing people space to move for our festivalgoers to have a great time and for around.” artists to want to play your event. That’s as good The festival now attracts a kaleidoscopic range as it gets.” of people from your die-hard folk fans to whole

The Vicarage Nursing Home provides high quality, twenty four hour, nursing care. Situated in the quiet, semi rural location of Bayston Hill near Shrewsbury. Set in an acre of beautiful landscape gardens, vegetable plots, greenhouses and a beautiful sensory garden. New themed hallways and special designs on bedroom doors. A regular program of person centred and one to one activities. Meals are prepared and cooked on the premises in our fully equipped kitchens. Home from home environment. Long or short stay Respite Care available. Tastefully furnished bedrooms equipped to a very high standard with beautiful views and many looking out over the Shropshire countryside.

JULY 2016

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Move home means business For Nicki Grant, moving back to her beloved Shropshire to run a business she loves is a double cause for celebration. Nicki is the woman behind the county’s newest letting agency, Go Rent A Home. With seven years of experience in letting out property, she successfully launched her business in Kent around four years ago, and will now replicate it in her home county. “I grew up in Shrewsbury and moved down to Kent 18 years ago but never really settled. However with children growing up it was never the right time to move back. Then when they said ‘let’s go back to Shropshire’ I jumped at it, and we found a lovely little cottage in Barrow, near Broseley,” she says. After a varied career which has seen her work in everything from banking to the police and as a childminder, running a letting agency was never in the plan: “When my father died, my mother and I decided to invest the money in property. We bought a few, planning to renovate them and sell them on. It was at the time that the market really slumped so although we were able to buy at rock bottom, we found we couldn’t sell so started renting them out instead. We really enjoyed it so I decided to start a business.” Nicki went back to college to gain her NFOPP Level 3 qualification, meaning that she is a professional letting agent. She built her portfolio of properties in Kent up to 20 and the business will continue under a manager there. She has already bought properties in the Broseley and Much Wenlock

areas, and is now looking to extend the range across Shropshire by working with landlords here. “Although Go Rent A Home is internet based, I am a local letting agent,” she explains. “With fewer overheads I am able to keep costs down and I do pass that on. You also get a very personal service. It’s me that chooses the tenants as it’s me that will work with them, so I select them very carefully. By taking the extra effort to start with, rather than just accepting the first person who comes along, you can end up with 10 years of a better tenant. When you are looking after someone’s investment, which may be worth up to hundreds of thousands of pounds, you’ve got to be careful who you let that out to!” She is fully insured, which covers all clients’ money, and is a member of the Property Ombudsman scheme. With full credit checks and referencing, legal and safety advice and regular property checks, Nicki promises to look after landlords’ property as carefully as she would her own. Likewise, tenants can rest assured that there is a 24/7 emergency phone line, and all the essentials – smoke and CO2 alarms, fire extinguishers and blankets, and so on – are taken care of. Nicki also encourages landlords to adhere to good practice, which will protect them should issues arise. “We take the stress out of it; matching tenants and landlords is important, and we provide everything the big boys offer but with a personalised service,” she says. For information on letting out your property with Go Rent A Home, contact Nicki Grant on 01952 375721 or 07780 459289.

Go Rent A Home Shropshire

Safe Property Lettings & Management

Looking for landlords

Take the stress and worry out of renting your home to leave you time to enjoy the extra income

% NO VAT

• Fully insured • Full credit & referencing • Quality tenants waiting

Fully Managed

• Legal & safety advice • Regular property checks • 24/7 Emergency phone line • Government deposit scheme • Rent collection & monthly/annual spreadsheet

Visit our website: www.gorentahome.co.uk .co.uk Facebook: Go Rent a Home For a free, no obligations quote call Nicki:

01952 375721 / 07780 459289

11 What some builders call extras...

JULY 2016

Bovis Homes ‘it’s all included’

...we call standard

Specification available:

• Fitted kitchen with choice of finishes† • Integrated kitchen appliances - oven, hob and fridge freezer - washing machine and dishwasher

• Contemporary bathroom suite • For all bathrooms and en suites - half height tiling - ceramic floor tiles

• En suite and built-in wardrobe to bedroom 1

In addition to all the other benefits of new homes, from energy efficiency, which helps to save money on bills, to low maintenance.

Each Bovis Home comes with a wide range of high specification features at no extra cost saving you thousands of pounds!

Shrewsbury

Bowbrook Meadows off Mytton Oak Road SY3 8ZE

A development of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes

Don’t forget to ask about Home Exchange or Help to Buy!

Open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm

01743 617011

bovishomes.co.uk Photograph depicts a typical Bovis Home interior. The specification and features shown were correct at the time of going to press. Bovis Homes is continually reviewing and updating the specification on all housetypes and therefore reserves the right to change specification details. For full details regarding current specification and finishes, for the plots you are interested in, please refer to our sales advisor. †Subject to stage of build.

JULY 2016

STYLE

Having a blast – 50s style

n the summer of 1958, an American girl group called The Poni Tails had a huge international hit record called ‘Born Too Late’. It seems a most apt song title to describe Shropshire teenager Annabelle Pritchard who might well feel she was born too late – several decades too late. Because Annabelle, who lives in Alveley, near Bridgnorth, simply loves the fashion, the style, the look, the cars and the music of the 1950s, and she surrounds herself with memorabilia from the period. “It seems to me it was a much happier time somehow,” she says. “Everything was so bright and colourful and stylish, and the clothes were so intricate. It was also a much more innocent time, I think.” Deeply interested in fashion, the 19-yearold beauty contestant and X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent hopeful just adores dressing up in clothes that evoke rockabilly and the dawn of rock ‘n’ roll. “The music of that time and the style of that time go hand-in-hand,” she says. With such a philosophy, it’s no great surprise that when Annabelle auditioned for the TV talent shows, she sang in a rockabilly style and wore clothes from a time when Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Buddy Holly, and the Everly Brothers ruled the charts. She auditioned for Britain’s Got Talent in 2014 and 2015, giving the songs she sang her own 50s twist. “I sang My Immortal by Evanescence, and Tainted Love by Imelda May, but in a rockabilly style. I’m not sure the judges really knew my song choices. And of course the rockabilly style is not for everyone – it’s like Marmite, I

think; you either love it or hate it.” Annabelle took part in the X Factor auditions this year, again performing Tainted Love: “It’s a fantastic experience and I loved every minute of it. I’m still waiting to hear from the X Factor so you never know.” When it comes to dress sense, Annabelle is a fan of burlesque and outrageous dancers like Dita Von Teese. “I just love the way she dresses,” she says. “About three or four years ago now, I sort of got into all that sort of style, and three years ago I dyed my hair bright red and have kept it like that ever since. “I own three genuine 1950s dresses. I go to a lot of vintage fairs so I pick up magazines from that period. I love all this kind of thing. “If I could, I’d have a big American 1950s car like a Ford Thunderbird or something.” And whether it’s singing or shining the spotlight on her own individual style of dress and beauty, she enjoys the attention. Annabelle was a finalist in the Miss Shropshire competition in 2014, a Miss Birmingham finalist in 2015, and a Miss Black Country finalist this year, sponsored by Stourport-on-Severn’s Vintage Vanity store. She is also this summer’s Bridgnorth Carnival Queen. Whether or not Annabelle was ‘born too late’, this born-in-the-1990s fan of the 1950s is already making her mark in the world.

JULY 2016

Part of Part the of Rotherwood the Rotherwood GroupGroup

a new a new standard standard in healthcare in healthcare

If you’d If you’d like tolike arrange to arrange a viewing a viewing or justorneed just need some some advice advice - we’re - we’re here to here help: to help:

01 952 01952 619619 8 50 8 50

VISIT VISIT

St George’s St George’s Park, School Park, School Street,Street, St Georges, St Georges, Telford, Telford, TF2 9LL TF2 9LL

E M A I LE M A I L

admin.stgeorges@rotherwood-group.co.uk admin.stgeorges@rotherwood-group.co.uk

D I S C OD VIESR CO MVOERRE MAO BR OEU T A BOOUURT HOOUMRE H SO AM NEDS VA A NLD U EVA S: LUES:

www.rotherwood-healthcare.co.uk www.rotherwood-healthcare.co.uk

Individual Individual rooms rooms all with all with en-suite en-suite 24-hour 24-hour care and carenursing and nursing support support Reminiscence Reminiscence & sensory & sensory relaxation relaxation rooms rooms A Person A Person Centred Centred Approach Approach to care to care Beauty, Beauty, treatment treatment & hair & salon hair salon Dedicated Dedicated dementia dementia unit unit In-house In-house cinema cinema

St George’s St George’s Park is Park proud is proud to be to recommended be recommended by by

JULY 2016

Give e h t m e th

r e d l u o h S d l Co

WOMAN

Off the shoulder is a massive trend for Summer 16 and it is a beautiful one. Revealing shoulders is an ideal way to expose skin in a classy and sexy way. TOP TIP: give your shoulders a brush of blusher to give them a golden glow when out on display.

JULY 2016

WOMAN

3 4 5 left: Floral top, £35, trousers £35, Wallis 1: Autograph off shoulder top, M&S, £39.50 2: Bardot Dress, Matalan, £20 3: Stripe casual top, Primark, £5 4: Denim dress with tie, Miss Selfridge, £39 5: Mid pink chiffon pleated top, New Look, £19.99

JULY 2016

2 FOR THE PRICE OF 1

ONE HOUR DENTURE REPAIR

Why not buy a quality pair of varifocals and walk away with an extra pair for free! Second pair of varifocals could include office lens or prescription sun specs

Evenet t Optometry O pt o m e t r y Evenett QUALITY EYECARE & EYEWEAR FOR EVERYONE

3 Listley St. Bridgnorth WV16 4AW

TEL: 01746 763 330

Terms and conditions apply please ask for details

The Red Lion Great Chatwell

20% off

Relines/Copies/Additions

VISIT US AT WELLINGTON AND BRIDGNORTH 8-10 Haygate Road, Wellington TF1 1QA TEL: 01952 253522 27 West Castle St, Bridgnorth WV16 4AD TEL: 01746 764334

See advert page 54

The Lamb at Edgmond

10% OFF

ALL MAIN MEALS

YOUR FOOD BILL

Valid Monday - Friday Evenings until 31 July 2016.

The promoter of this offer is The Red Lion Great Chatwell, TF10 9BJ (01952) 691643 – www.theredliongreatchatwell.co.uk This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Not exchangeable for cash. No cash value. Offer valid until 31 June 2016. Only one voucher per table per visit can be accepted for this offer. Offer subject to availability.

The promoter of this offer is The Lamb Inn, 29 Shrewsbury Road Edgmond, Newport TF10 8HU (01952) 810421 This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Not exchangeable for cash. No cash value. Offer valid until 31 July 2016. Only one voucher per visit can be accepted for this offer. Offer subject to availability.

until 31 June 2016

The Lutine Bell

Whittington Castle

10% off

2 for 1

until 31 July 2016

Cheapest free - valid Wednesday to Friday only until 31 July 2016.

ALL MEALS

The promoter of this offer is The Lutine Bell, High Street, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 7AN (01952) 825325 This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Not exchangeable for cash. No cash value. Offer valid until 31 June 2016. Only one voucher for a maximum of 4 per table per visit can be accepted for this offer. Offer subject to availability.

ON HOT DRINKS

The promoter of this offer is Whittington Castle, Castle Street, Whittington, Shropshire SY11 4DF (01691) 662500 This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Not exchangeable for cash. No cash value. Offer valid until 31 July 2016. Only one voucher per visit can be accepted for this offer. Offer subject to availability.

The offers on this page are promoted by and are the responsibility of the individual businesses who are offering the promotions as highlighted in the vouchers. Reviewmedia Ltd cannot accept any liability for any errors or omissions or consequences arising therefrom or any consequences arising from the use of the vouchers. Readers are advised to check the offer availability with the individual establishment concerned prior to booking. If you don’t want to cut up your copy of Review just go to our website at www.reviewmedia.com and follow the link to download the coupons.

JULY 2016

MONDAY & TUESDAY OVER 25S NIGHT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; every Friday & Saturday

LIVE MUSIC

OPEN

MIC

EVERY WEDNESDAY

(every performer gets paid)

The Waterfront Victoria Quay, Victoria Avenue, Shrewsbury SY1

01743 363429

Great Chatwell TF10 9BJ

JULY 2016

RECIPES

LEFT: EDD KIMBER

Berry lovely Summer is here, the sun is shining (hopefully), and it’s time to indulge in the delicious British berry

righten up your salads, picnics, cakes and snacks with a ripe selection of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. Whether you’re looking to create the perfect picnic or to jazz up your lunch al desko, these gorgeous savoury and sweet recipes are a new way to use berries and are surprisingly easy to make. The Great British Bake Off’s Edd Kimber, otherwise known as The Boy Who Bakes, has even created delicious afternoon tea recipes for us. You don’t have to be an expert to recreate these showstoppers so whether you serve with tea or a glass of something bubbly you are sure to impress your friends and family. For more recipes visit www.berryworld.com

Method

Strawberry Kilner Jar Salad

Serves: 4 as a snack or 2 as a light lunch Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes

The fresh black pepper and balsamic vinegar dressing complements the sweetness of the strawberries in this salad designed to be assembled and enjoyed straight from the jar.

Ingredients

Serves: 1 Preparation time: 10 minutes

Ingredients 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp olive oil 100g chickpeas rinsed and drained handful of rocket 250g strawberries, hulled and quartered 100g feta cubed 1 tbsp shredded mint juice of half a lemon salt and freshly ground black pepper

First pour the balsamic vinegar and olive oil into the jar, and season with a pinch of salt and a generous grind of black pepper. Shake the jar to mix ingredients. Then, beginning with the chickpeas, layer up the ingredients within the jar, finishing with the feta and mint. It is important not to have the salad leaves next to the dressing as the vinegar will cause the leaves to wilt. Squeeze the lemon over the top of the salad, and seal the jar. When ready to eat, shake the jar to coat the salad in the dressing and then enjoy straight from the jar. Store upright.

Strawberry Parma Ham and Parmesan Crostini

200g of quartered strawberries 8 slices of sourdough bread 8 slices of thinly cut Parma ham 100g of parmesan cheese shavings 1 tbsp of aged balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil a small handful of basil leaves black pepper to season

Method Firstly, hull and quarter the strawberries and set aside. Toast the sourdough bread and then place on a serving platter. Arrange the Parma ham on top of each slice of bread, top with some strawberries and then sprinkle with the parmesan shavings. Finally, drizzle with the balsamic vinegar and olive oil and sprinkle with the basil leaves and some freshly cracked black pepper.

JULY 2016

FOOD + DRINK

Edd Kimber’s Blackberry and Goats Cheese Quiche Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 65 minutes

Ingredients Rosemary Pastry: 200g plain flour 1 /4 tsp sugar 1 tsp salt 1 sprig of rosemary, finely chopped 135g unsalted butter 4 tbsp ice cold water 1 large egg yolk Filling: 100g lardons, cooked until crisp 120g goat’s cheese, diced 80g blackberries 1 large handful of rocket 3 large eggs 60ml whole milk 200ml double cream Black pepper to season

Method To make the pastry place the flour, sugar, salt and rosemary into the bowl of a food processor and pulse to combine. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs, the odd bigger chunk of butter is fine. Add the water and pulse until the pastry forms a ball. Tip the pastry out and use your hands to gently bring together into a uniform dough. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for an hour before using. Roll the pastry on a lightly floured work surface until about 2-3mm thick. Use the pastry to line a loose bottomed tart tin, 9 inches in diameter, trimming off any excess. Refrigerate the tart case from an hour before baking. Line the chilled pastry base with a crumpled piece of parchment paper and fill with baking beans or rice and bake for 25 minutes at 180˚c (160˚c fan oven) before removing the parchment and beans and baking for a further 10-15 minutes or until the pastry is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and brush the pastry case with the egg yolk before baking for a minute or so to set the yolk (this helps create a strong barrier so you don’t get a soggy bottom). Start filling the pastry case by adding a layer of rocket and then sprinkle over the blackberries, goat’s cheese and bacon. In a bowl whisk together the eggs, milk and cream, seasoning with some black pepper. Carefully pour in the egg mixture and place the quiche on to a baking tray and place into the oven, baking for about 25 minutes at 180c (160c fan oven) or until the egg mixture is set and top is very lightly browned. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

When filling the quiche keep a few bits of bacon and rocket aside to sprinkle on top of the quiche after the egg mixture has been poured in.

Edd Kimber’s Blueberry Friands Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients 140g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing 35g plain flour 100g ground almonds 125g icing sugar 4 large egg whites 1 /2 tsp almond extract 36 blueberries 6 tbsp flaked almonds

Method Lightly grease a 12-hole non-stick muffin pan and set aside. Preheat the oven to 180˚C (160˚C fan). Heat the butter in a small pan on a medium/ high heat until the butter foams and the milk solids turn a golden brown. Immediately remove from the heat and pour into a small bowl. In a large bowl mix together the flour, ground

almonds and sugar. Add the egg whites and almond extract and mix together until smooth. Pour in the butter and mix together until smooth and fully combined. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for an hour before baking. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared muffin pan and top with three blueberries per friand and scatter the flaked almonds around the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges and a little paler in the middle. Allow to cool for a few minutes before turning out on to a wire rack to cool completely. Kept in a sealed container these little cakes will keep for up to three days.

Edd Kimber’s Raspberry and Pistachio Tarts Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes

Ingredients 225ml whole milk 1 large egg 2 large egg yolks 100g caster sugar

JULY 2016

FOOD + DRINK

Handmade sausage rolls can now be delivered to your door courtesy of Coopers Gourmet Sausage Rolls. Coopers, of Oswestry, will lovingly make, bake and pack 16 tasty sausage rolls into cool boxes for you to enjoy. Place your order before midday on a Wednesday to receive your order on a Friday. www.coopers-sausage-rolls.co.uk Great British Bake Off contestant Beca Lyne-Pirkis will be headlining at this year’s Cosford Food Festival. Beca, who took part in the popular TV show in 2013, will be on the demo stage on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 July. www.rafmuseum.org/cosford The couple behind a well-known Shrewsbury restaurant and bar have bought one of the county’s most renowned country pubs. Clare and Graham Jenkins, owners of Shrewsbury’s Henry Tudor House, have acquired the award-winning New Inn at Baschurch, north Shropshire. Clare said that they were delighted to be taking over the New Inn from owners Gerry and Ann Bean, who are retiring.

25g cornflour 50g pistachio paste 600g fresh raspberries 25g chopped pistachios Sweet Pastry: 200g plain flour 20g ground almonds 40g icing sugar pinch of salt 125g unsalted butter 1 large egg yolk 1 tbsp ice cold water

Method To make the pistachio filling place the milk into a medium sized saucepan and bring to the boil. Meanwhile place the egg, yolks, sugar, cornflour and pistachio paste into a large bowl and whisk together to combine. When the milk is at temperature pour over the egg yolk mixture and immediately whisk together, to prevent the eggs from curdling. Pour the mixture back into the pan and over medium heat cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is very thick. Scrape back into the bowl and press a sheet of cling film on to the surface and refrigerate until needed. To make the pastry place the flour, almonds, icing sugar and salt into a food processor and pulse to combine. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture

resembles bread crumbs. Add the egg yolk and the water and pulse until the mixture starts to form a ball (if the mixture is too dry add more water a tsp at a time). Tip the mixture out on to the work surface and use your hands to gently knead together into a uniform dough. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for an hour before using. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured work surface until about 2-3mm thick and cut out 6 rounds of pastry big enough to line 10cm wide tart tins. Use the pastry to line six 10cm loose bottomed tart tins, trimming off any excess. Place the tarts on to a baking tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until the pastry is chilled. Line each tart case with a piece of crumpled baking parchment and fill with baking beans or rice. Bake in an oven preheated to 180˚C (160˚C fan) for about 20 minutes then remove the parchment and the beans and bake for a further 5-10 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. To assemble the tarts fill each tart shell with a layer of the pistachio mixture, top with fresh raspberries and chopped pistachios, dusting with a little icing sugar if you fancy. The tarts are best served on the day they are assembled but the pastry can be made up to a week in advance and the custard up to three days in advance.

Boutique hotel Fishmore Hall in Ludlow is thrilled to announce that head chef Andrew Birch has been shortlisted as a semi-finalist for the prestigious National Chef of the Year award, presented by The Craft Guild of Chefs. In order to gain a place as a National Chef of the Year finalist, Birch must demonstrate his skills and creativity in an innovation test, by making an impressive dish from ingredients presented in the ‘mystery basket’. Shropshire’s Kerry Vale Vineyard has been recognised as a top performing vineyard by travel website TripAdvisor, for the second time. The family owned vineyard on the Shropshire/Powys border received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the second time in two years. Say ciao to a summer in Shrewsbury with a Carluccio’s picnic at your outdoor concert, family outing or in the park. Take a taste of Italy with you to your favourite sunny spot, with a picnic full of fresh, delicious dishes. Priced at £45, each adult picnic serves two. www.carluccios.com/picnics More than 130 of the best local producers will be joined by nearly a dozen top regional chefs at the new Telfood Feastival taking place at Southwater’s outdoor QEII arena, in Telford on 30 and 31 July. One of the chefs attending the event is Suree Coates from Broseley’s King and Thai. Suree has been named amongst the UK’s best Curry and best Thai Chefs and her restaurant has just been named best in the region with a listing in the prestigious Good Food Guide. www.telfood.co.uk

The Lamb Inn, 29 Shrewsbury Road Edgmond, Newport TF10 8HU

Phone: 01952 810421 E-mail: info@thelambatedgmond.co.uk

2-course menu

Mon-Fri

12till 2.30pm

£7.95

FROM

FRIDAY

MONDAY & TUESDAY

GRILL

NEW SPECIAL OFFER

NIGHT

Main Meals for

WEDNESDAY

PIE NIGHT

choice of

FILLINGS

FISH NIGHT Giant cod, chips & peas £6.50

THURSDAY

ITALIAN NIGHT for 2 £10 main meals

£11.95 £23.90 per person for two choice of 5 meals

SUNDAY LUNCH

£8.95 2 Courses £10.95 3 Courses £12.95 1 Course

PLEASE BOOK TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

JULY 2016

DRINK

FIGHTING SPIRIT Gin lover and businessman JJ Lawrence has launched his own gin company, fought a court battle with two big drinks companies and won an international award

t’s been quite a journey for Jeff Lawrence, known as JJ, since he decided, three years ago, to launch his business Shropshire Gin. “Whilst sitting in my study one evening drinking a glass of gin and tonic, surrounded by books and my collection of many different bottles of gin, I had a thought: Wouldn’t it be amazing to follow my passion and create something really special of my own? This is what made me start my own gin company,” he says. The process began in 2013 when he trademarked the name of his first tipple –Tiger Gin. However, complications arose when the name was opposed by Heineken who owned the rights to Tiger lager and Everards who owned the rights to Tiger bitter. JJ refused to back down against the brewing giants. “I had to appoint a top London trademark attorney and used his services for two years to fight my case, this resulted in a court case in London. I then had to appoint a specialist trade mark barrister. “I finally won, it was a real David and Goliath

n Two of the Tiger team, Darren Wall and Martin Waite moment!” he smiles. He believes his gin and the name Tiger were worth fighting for. He started in earnest and devoted many hours to research – everything from the secret recipe to the bottles, labels, packaging and website. Once he was satisfied it was all systems go. He was a man on a mission. That mission was to deliver a new premium gin that was so smooth it could be enjoyed neat. The botanicals in Tiger Gin are juniper berries, coriander seeds, cut and dried angelica root, dried sweet lemon peel, dried sweet orange peel, cassia bark, liquorice root powder, ground nutmeg, cinnamon bark, orrisroot powder and two secret ingredients that he refuses to divulge. “I worked very closely with the master distiller,” JJ says. “The botanicals and amounts were carefully chosen to create a very smooth and sweet gin, a gin that could be drunk neat over ice without wincing. It’s also popular with two parts premium tonic and a slice of fresh orange,” he explains. “I chose to work with the master distiller and not start my own distillery because it takes years to hone the craft and become a master. “They also choose the finest botanicals from

Tipsy Tiger Cocktail Mixologist Felix Cohen of the Manhattans Project worked with Tiger Gin to produce this summer cocktail 50ml Tiger Gin 20ml fresh orange juice 1g citric acid (or to taste) 15-20ml orange blossom honey Shake hard, without ice, to ensure honey and citric acid are dissolved. Then shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

Our aim when we started was to create the ‘world’s best tasting gin’ the best harvests from around the world.” Jeff and his dedicated team of five were finally able to take delivery of his first batch of Tiger Gin in January 2016. Between them, the creators have found a recipe for success. Having only launched at the end of February, Tiger Gin from The Shropshire Gin Company has been named as one of the world’s best gins, having picked up a silver award at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC). “Now in its 21st year, the ISC is the premier event in promoting outstanding quality spirits. More than 1,300 entries from nearly 70 countries worldwide make it a truly global competition,” says JJ. “Each spirit is put through a rigorous blind tasting process by an experienced panel of specialist judges. “Being recognised as one of the world’s best gins so soon after launch is fantastic. Our aim when we started was to create the ‘world’s best tasting gin’ and this award goes a long way to proving we have done just that.” The brand has also amassed a following of more than 20,000 people on social media and is now stocked by more than 100 local bars, restaurants and other outlets. Tiger Gin is available by the glass from a selection of Shropshire pubs and bars or from Tanners Wines and Moonshine and Fuggles, in Ironbridge. As to the future, JJ says the plan is simple: “To share our passion for the sweet taste of Tiger Gin with as many people as possible.” We’re sure that the rest of Shropshire will be happy to join him in drinking to that. www.tigergin.co.uk

JULY 2016

A website that generates business? Now that’s a simple idea... We’re based in Bridgnorth! Call: 01746 766 848 or email hello@webpager.co.uk

Summary Bespoke Design

Custom, modern & professional design

Structured to Convert

Planned by a marketing specialist

Responsive Layout

Design adapts to work on any device

Search Friendly (SEO)

Optimised for Google, Bing, Yahoo etc

Feature Rich

With Facebook integration, videos, photo galleries, endorsements, maps, forms & more!

Hosted

On an award winning platform

Secure

Against malware, viruses & hackers

PLUS a free .co.uk domain name with unlimited email forwarders

Optional Extras Shopping Catalogue

Share your products online and encourage in-store purchase

Blog PLUS a free .co.uk domain name with Publishemail articles, guides, news & more. unlimited forwarders Instantly shared across our network

Terms & Conditions Apply: www.webpager.co.uk/package

All this for just £

300 +£30 per month (all prices subject to VAT)

Plus each month your dedicated account management team will: • Deliver continuous on-site SEO • Change content on request • Develop new features • Make code improvements • Keep your website inline with EU and UK law (e.g. EU Cookie Directive) • Send a monthly report

As with fashion summer brings new trends in the world of interior design 2016 is taking a more daring direction, with a bold mix of materials and contrasting surfaces. The rule book has to some extent been thrown away! ...You heard it here first. Think: :Statement Mirrors :Extravagant clocks :Vintage accessories :Lavish upholstery :Up cycled furniture :Textured rugs Mix it all up ... and express yourself! Most importantly remember the design of your home is an ongoing process. So 'CoCo-fi' your home, pop in and see us for inspiration, advice, a chat or just to get out of the rain! Always a warm welcome. We have many major brands which are available to order from our in store catalogues. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal customers for their continued support and encouragement ... it has been truly amazing.

“Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise is it not luxury”

Parlane • Frankie Whistle • Coulson Macleod • Gallery Home • La Jewellery • Owen Barry Coach House • St Eval Candle Co. • Malini • Scentchips • Stone The Crows! • Woodwick Candles • Envy Jewellery

JULY 2016

TRAVEL

Legendary luxury

t’s the largest of the Greek islands, where the goddess Rhea hid the newborn Zeus and Theseus killed the Minotaur. Home to one of the most ancient civilisations in Europe – the Minoans – Crete has long been a centre of culture thanks to its position between Africa, Europe and Asia Minor. Now it’s popular with visitors looking for somewhere to hide from everyday life for a week or two in the sun. Here you’ll find historic ruins, glorious beaches, mountains, fertile valleys and dramatic gorges. As the fifth largest island in the Med, you’re unlikely to be able to see it all, so you’ll need to decide where to base yourself. For those looking for chic luxury, nestled on the tranquil northeastern coast stands the Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas, named Europe’s Leading Beach Hotel at the 2015 World Travel Awards. Renowned for its celebrity clientele and guests who return each year, it’s the ideal retreat for a stylish summer getaway on the lovely Mirabello Bay. New this year is the AND restaurant, one of several at the hotel. Overlooking the turquoise lit pool and with its very own Shisha lounge, guests can enjoy an array of local dishes in a relaxing atmosphere. Elounda Beach appeals to families, couples and honeymooners. Those looking for a romantic break can check in at one of the Yachting Villas, with private heated pool, three decking areas and private cinema rooms. Larger parties can book the Grand Villa on the beach front, with luscious private garden, stunning views and temperature controlled private pool. The hotel itself has four private beaches so overcrowding isn’t a problem; each is home to a variety of water sports including snorkeling, diving and water-skiiing. There is also, of course, a heavenly spa where you can choose from a wide range of wellness and vitality programmes along with beauty treatments. Leave the hotel and you’ll find a seaside town with colourful harbour and main square. Elounda is packed with authentic tavernas and friendly bars. A 15-minute walk from town takes you to the causeway connected to Spinalonga Peninsula where you’ll find the only remains of an ancient submerged city – five huge windmills which were excavated and opened to the public. Culture vultures can also make a 30-minute drive to the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Malia which date back to 1450BC. Elounda’s profile has grown thanks to visits from the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Lady Gaga and Ronaldo, but while many of the hotels are of the exclusive variety, the town itself has escaped the glitz, retaining a traditional Greek fishing village feel. It’s the best of both worlds.

n Images from top: The Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas; one of the private beaches; private pool; the Argonaut restaurant; spa treatment

JULY 2016

Enjoy

2 MONTHS

Summer FREE MEMBERSHIP*

We are the award-winning, family friendly, health and fitness club in Shrewsbury, offering a wide range of first-class facilities plus a dedicated team of welcoming professionals whose job it is to make you feel like you really belong. Whether you want to workout in our spacious gym, join in our extensive range of group fitness classes, play tennis, relax in our indoor swimming pool or luxurious day spa, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be amongst friends at The Shrewsbury Club.

Call us TODAY on

01743 467 755 to book your FREE VIP Tour**

* 2 months free only applies to annual memberships. Offer expires 30th June 2016 ** VIP Tours must be booked in advance. The club reserves the right to restrict admission. Club rules and regulations must be complied with by all guests.

Where the whole family feel they belong www.theshrewsburyclub.co.uk

NO JOINING FEE NO CONTRACT NO FUSS

JULY 2016

SIX OF THE BEST

FUNINTHESUN 1

2 Six of the best buys for summer out of doors

1. Moon Rocket, Alley Katz, Bridgnorth, £109 Scoot-along toy for budding astronauts aged from two

2. Water bottle, Kitt Clothing, Bridgnorth, £9.99 or free with qualifying purchase Stay hydrated with this designer bottle from Desigual 3. Boules set from Laura Ashley, £20 Classic English garden game

4. Den kit, Little Monkeys, Bridgnorth, from £14.99 A range of kits for ages 3+ and 5+ to give youngsters hours or even days of fun 5. Crane from This, That and the Other, Bridgnorth, £34 Add a touch of wildlife to your garden 6. Woven picnic bag, Next, £16 With room for a family feast

JULY 2016

PHOTOGRAPHER

Born to photograph

e’ve all heard of the pressures of working with demanding supermodels, but photographer Laura Stanley is also used to tears on her shoots. In fact they are par for the course. Shifnal photographer Laura captures many hugely important milestones in people’s lives, but is particularly focused on reflecting the delicate features of newborn babies. Setting up studio in people’s homes, where families feel most comfortable, Laura provides blankets, hats and various props to photograph newborns, ideally when they are between four to 10 days old. Looking through the serene baby pictures of the tiny people she has photographed, it is hard to imagine the time taken to create these natural images. “With newborn babies, it is all about the parents’ preparation before the session and conditions in the studio. I provide parents with a list of instructions to follow before the session to get baby really comfortable and happy to sleep through a session. Most parents are very relaxed and some of the dads even fall asleep! “It also takes a lot of patience. I pencil in four hours for a newborn session just because you can never tell how long it will take. So far it has never got to four hours, thankfully.” Photographing such tiny babies also takes a lot of expertise, not just with the camera but with health and safety in mind. “I went on a baby posing workshop with specialist photographer Jillian Greenhill, where we were shown the safe way to handle such

precious and delicate babies in a number of poses. Jillian was a bit of an expert at wrapping babies beautifully in blankets which is an art that I’m still perfecting. She made it look easy but I can tell you it is not!” Working with tinies takes great patience, calmness and a willingness to accept some messy situations. “Baby is the number one priority so we don’t rush, and they lead the session. They feed when they need and have cuddles when they need help to settle. Cuddles has to be the best bit,” says Laura. “I had one baby in a certain pose where the baby is laid on its belly, bottom facing up. Mum was sat next to the baby and without warning suddenly projectile poo flew out of baby’s bottom and skimmed past mum’s face all over the walls and carpet. Mum had brought her sister along and she said ‘well, no one tells you babies do that’!” Although she has always enjoyed photography, Laura didn’t initially take it up as career, working in sales and marketing until recently with the photography as a sideline. “I have always enjoyed photography, my Granddad was a photographer and documented my mum and aunt and uncles growing up. He had a darkroom in his shed. I used to borrow his film cameras and return them broken,” she remembers. There’s one opportunity Laura is keen to come her way: “I would love to photograph a birth and it is very popular

n Laura Stanley, and examples of her newborn baby photographs

in America. There are some amazing birth photographers in the UK also. “The nearest I’ve come is with my ‘Fresh 48’ sessions where I visit parents and baby in hospital within the first 48 hours of the birth and photograph them. “I love capturing memories for my clients. I feel lucky to be part of people’s lives at such special happy occasions; weddings and babies. With babies it’s all about the tiny details which change so quickly at that age. Nearly every client when receiving their order say to me they can’t believe how much baby has grown and changed in a few weeks.” For more information go to www.lauramayphotography.co.uk

JULY 2016

LAWYER

LAW FOR LIFE It took a traumatic riding accident to guide Telford lawyer Christine McNeish towards her perfect profession

Christine was a kee

n horsewoman until

hristine McNeish has more “The work can be emotionally draining but I than 20 years’ experience take great pride in being able to solve my clients’ as a family lawyer and problems as sensitively and efficiently as I can so certainly seems to have they can begin a new life as soon as possible.” found her calling, so it’s a After 20 years of being an employed solicitor, surprise to find that law Christine now works for herself as a consultant wasn’t her first choice of vocation. through London-based Berlad Graham LLP The Telford solicitor, who is on the prestigious solicitors. Law Society’s Family Law Advanced Panel, began “I became disillusioned with working for a her working life as a teacher, after qualifying in firm and wanted the freedom to offer my clients Edinburgh. She taught for four years in a college a bespoke service. In January this year I set up my before deciding that it wasn’t the future for her. own company and then I joined Berlad Graham She left for a career with LLP as a consultant. This a pharmaceutical company means I have all the support that would see her travel I need but the freedom to When I was in my the globe meeting famous work to suit my clients. mid 30s I had a bad and interesting people. Clients can contact me after Then fate intervened when 5pm and at weekends to riding accident which suit them. I think this is the keen horse rider took a fall that would change particularly important broke my back. I her life. in family matters decided then to try for as issues often “I came to the legal profession late in life,” she arise at the a career that would explains. “When I was in weekend,” my mid 30s I had a bad she says. challenge me riding accident which broke In my back. I decided then to addition try for a career that would challenge me and not to dealing with family law, involve travelling around the country. Christine also specialises in “I thought it was important to study for a law equine law, helping people with degree so went back to university as a mature problems which arise purchasing student to obtain my second degree.” or selling a horse, loan agreements When Christine eventually qualified she was and setting up livery yards, thus offered a job in Wellington with a prestigious firm merging her hobby with her job. doing general civil litigation, including family law. Her love of horses has shaped “I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect of her life through tough times the work and going to court and I gradually but also been the catalyst began to specialise in family law. Once I made for some truly awesome that decision, I decided to obtain additional experiences. qualifications to mark me out as an expert in “I was recently my field and took further exams set by the Law interviewed by Bahrain Society to become a member of the Family Law television about Advanced Panel,” she says. my time riding and It’s a difficult career choice that can involve racing the King’s issues that arise out-of-hours during weekends and horses in Bahrain in evenings but Christine still relishes the challenges. my younger life. I

a riding accident cha

nged her life

am very interested in the Bahraini horse as due to the geographical location of Bahrain, these magnificent horses have remained unchanged for hundreds of years being the original war horse the tribes used in battle. This means they are not only beautiful, as only Arab horses can be, they have a stable temperament and are intensely loyal. “I did consider working in Bahrain with these horses but unfortunately personal circumstances prevented it.” Now based in Telford, Christine’s day involves working from her office at home and seeing clients at The e-Innovation Centre in Telford. She also travels to London to see clients there. “No two days are the same and no two cases are the same and even when I think I know it all, something happens to challenge or change my way of thinking,” she smiles. “My life has been exciting, interesting and challenging and happily continues in that frame.” For information contact Christine on Christine. mcneish@ berladgrahamllp. com, 020 7887 1943 or 07774 246489.

Shrewsbury/Telford Family Law Expert HOW I CAN HELP YOU...

1. Divorce 2. Civil Partnership Dissolutions 3. Financial Settlements 4. Consent Orders 5. Children Issues 6. Pre-nuptial Agreements 7. Cohabitation Agreements I believe my clients should have the best possible support, guidance and advice available and with over 20 years experience in Family Law that is what I deliver to my clients. I am recognised by the Law Society as being an expert in my field to an Advanced Level and am a member of Resolution. This combination mean that you are in the best possible hands. I also believe my customers should have the highest quality service and offer the following to suit you:

• Telephone appointments • Skype appointments • Face to face meetings • Email consultations • Evening and weekend consultations DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE IN... Matrimonial; Immigration; Employment; Industrial Disease; Costs and Cost Drafting; Catastrophic Personal Injury; Civil and Commercial Mediation; Probate, Court of Protection & Wills; Negligence – Professional and Clinical; Dispute Resolution – Civil and Commercial; Commercial and Residential Conveying

Call me today on

07774 246489 or email me at christine.mcneish@ berladgrahamllp.com

JULY 2016

COMPETITIONS

WIN FAMILY TICKETS TO OSWESTRY SHOW

his year’s Oswestry Show will take place at The Showground on the outskirts of the market town on Saturday 6 August. The annual show is a highlight in the local calendar; it was first established in 1817 and has since grown into one of the county’s leading one-day events. An exciting schedule has been arranged for the main ring including an impressive display from The White Helmets Royal Signals Motorcycle Team kindly sponsored by Hughes Bros, Oswestry. Old favourite Bobb Hogg with his sheepdogs and ducks makes a welcome return, and the Sir Watkins Williams Wynn Hunt will introduce their pack of Old English Foxhounds to younger members of the audience. To round up events local young farmers’ teams will present their version of Total Wipe Out. Many trade stands are situated around the showground, with separate sections for craft and food. Elsewhere on the field from as early as 8.30am visitors can enjoy watching the judging of horses, cattle, sheep, rare breeds and goats before heading off to see the popular sheep shearing competition. A variety of entertainment has been organised for the Village Green to include a programme filled with dance, magic and music. Other areas of interest are the small livestock building, horticultural marquee, Women’s Institute competitions, vintage car and motorcycle sections, Oswestry Model Engineering Society and Montgomeryshire Vintage Machinery Display. Oswestry Show promises to be a great day out. For details go to www.oswestryshow.co.uk We have two family tickets to give away. To enter simply tell us: Who is sponsoring The White Helmets Royal Signals Motorcycle Team?

Win £150 of Percy Thrower’s,

eopened in March 2015, Percy Thrower’s in Shrewsbury is Wyevale Garden Centre’s flagship store. Here you can enjoy shopping for beautiful garden furniture, cookware, gifts and, of course, top quality plants, shrubs and trees. With over seven concessionaires, a restaurant and coffee shop, it offers an exciting leisure shopping experience for all, taking garden centres to a whole new level. Browse Yankee Candle, Pet’s Corner, Maidenhead Aquatics, Bon Marche, Mountain Warehouse and Sheridan. There’s something for all the family, whether it is shopping for a seasonal garden product, enjoying a catch-up over freshly brewed coffee and cake, or letting the children loose in the soft play area. At Percy Thrower’s you will also find The Greenhouse, a new concept for Wyevale. It offers a free garden advice service and encourages all ages to get involved in gardening. Local gardening and allotment societies, schools, nurseries and organisations enjoy the facilities to host events and the Greenhouse staff are always keen to work alongside the community to get more people into gardening. Horticultural experts include Bryan Howard, who used to appear on the BBC’s Gardener’s Question

JULY 2016

COMPETITIONS

WIN A £20 BOOK TOKEN Check the advertisements in the rest of the magazine to find where our ‘Local Bee’ (pictured above) is hidden. Entry to competitions can be made online through our website at www.countywoman.co.uk or by filling in the entry form or sending on a postcard to: SPOT THE BEE, Reviewmedia Ltd, Media House, Building 9, Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HR. First correct entry drawn will win a £20 book token

Enter our competitions online at www.countywoman.co.uk

50 of vouchers to spend at wer’s, A Wyevale Garden Centre Time and has over 50 years of experience in the gardening world. The Greenhouse also has various events lined up for the remainder of the year:

Oswestry Show

Percy Thrower’s

Little Digger’s Summer Activities over the summer holidays includes various summer gardening, baking and craft activities for the kids over the summer break. Summer Talk & Tour on English Lavender is a free event on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 August. Enjoy a talk and tour on English lavender with nursery manager Michael Esposito who will then lead a tour around the ‘Above & Beyond…. Connecting Threads’ display garden in the Plant Area, discussing the benefits of English lavender and other plants including Stipa grass, cornus and the beautiful benefits of lavender. Book (recommended) online or in store. August Bank Holiday Wildlife Weekend: Saturday 27 – Monday 29th August, 11am – 3pm Chat to an expert from Shropshire Wildlife Trust and enjoy a free children’s gardening activity in the Greenhouse. Children can also enjoy a free hunt around the garden centre. Frank P Matthews, tree expert Autumn is the perfect time to plant

Competitions entry form

Spot the Bee

name ............................................................................ address ........................................................................ ...................................................................................... trees so why not drop into the Greenhouse on Saturday 1 October and speak to the experts from one of the main fruit tree suppliers Frank P Matthews, locally based in Tenbury Wells. Learn all about planting fruit trees, propagation and recommended varieties. Other events in the pipeline include an Apple Festival, Little Diggers October half term activities, Christmas Wreath Workshop and Little Diggers Christmas activities for the children. You can win £150 of vouchers to spend at Percy Thrower’s. To be in with a chance, simply tell us: What plant can you find out about on 12 and 13 August?

...................................................................................... ................................................ postcode ................... phone number ............................................................. email ............................................................................. Competition rules. Closing date for all entries is 22/07/16. In the event of a tie the first correct entries out of the hat will be the winners. Send your entries to Reviewmedia Ltd, Media House, Building 9, Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HR. For full terms and conditions regarding competitions please refer to www.countywoman.co.uk COMPETITION WINNERS MAY 2016 - West Midland Safari Park Donna-Lee Franklin, Arleston, Telford BBC Gardeners’ World Live Helen Tinsley, Morda, Oswestry; Susan Jones, Shrewsbury; Mrs Jean Dewhurst, Bridgnorth Spot the Bee Mrs Lynda Morse, Bridgnorth

JULY 2016

LAST WORD

AND FINALLY...

Give me a break!

Alison Ashmore hakespeare, in As You Like It, identified the ‘seven ages of man’. In a similar but more seasonable note, I would like to suggest that there are ‘five ages of holidays’. I’m not including our childhood holidays because, let’s face it, all childhood is a holiday really. No, I’m talking about the types of holidays we have as an adult. The first is that break we go on as a teenager or young adult – getaways with mates or our first love, free from the shackles of parents. Some of us might have gone on Club 18-30 type holidays so we probably don’t remember much, beyond a vague recollection of waiting to board a flight to Ibiza. After that it’s lost in a haze of sangria – or worse. I always thought 11pm was time to turn in for the night rather than get my dancing shoes on, so my holidays at this point were in cheap and cheerful apartments on a quiet Greek island. Days were spent lying on a beach, cooling off with a float on a lilo. Then it was back to the apartment for a much-needed rest and liberal helpings of After Sun before heading to a taverna for souvlaki and luke-warm chips. Those carefree days stopped when the first child came along,

bringing me to our second stage of holidays – with children. I always smile to myself when I see couples on what is obviously a first holiday with a tiny baby. The tot will invariably be strapped to dad’s front in a papoose and they will be sitting in a National Trust tea room, mum enjoying a salad in peace while dad is on duty. You can almost hear them thinking how easy this holidaying-with-children lark is. Alas no. As is always the case with children, once they can walk and talk you are on the losing side in a war of attrition. Suncream, ice

Suncream, ice cream, fairground rides, bedtime; everything is a battle cream, fairground rides, bedtime; everything is a battle. A whole new aspect of holidays is opened up, though. Welcome to the world of soft play, small animal farms and caterpillar ‘roller coasters’. Now you’ve an excuse to visit a Disney theme park or build a speed boat in the sand. But nothing lasts forever, and sooner than you think you find yourself holidaying with teenagers. These third-stage holidays take less filling because you won’t be doing anything in a morning. Unless, that is, you count trying to get them out of bed (“but I’m having a lie-in... this is supposed to be a holiday...”). Your break will consist of dragging a bored teen around the local sights each afternoon, desperately trying to get them to respond with anything other than

an unimpressed grunt (“Shall we go on a boat trip?” “Let’s go up the Eiffel Tower!” “Is there anything on this menu you like?”). To spot a family at this stage of life, simply look for frazzled parents and, several paces behind them, sulky teens gazing at a smartphone while wearing headphones. Stage four is the one I’ve just had; back to being a couple with no kids in tow. What a delight this has turned out to be. These holidays consist of eating in nice restaurants; enjoying afternoon tea; sitting with a book and a good view. I thought I would miss my children, but no. It seems I’m not the Mum I thought I was. This could be quite a short stage of holidaying though, depending on when grandchildren appear on the scene. Now there are two ways this fifth holiday stage could play out. Either you will end up being taken along as the unpaid babysitter, the sucker who will pay for all the ice creams and gift shop tat; or, if you are careful, it’s all the fun of the second stage without the 24/7 responsibility. In other words you get to feed the goats at the petting farm, but having stuffed your grandchild full of candy floss and Haribos all day, you can sit back and watch while their parents try to get them to eat tea and go nicely off to bed. Meanwhile you head out for a more civilised evening at a local pub. Some people, I know, don’t like holidays and hardly ever go away. My husband grew up in a caravanning family so he believes any time off work has to be spent away from home. Either that, or he is (rightly) worried that a staycation would involve me presenting him with a list of jobs around the house that need doing. But if, like us, you are avid travellers, can I wish you a lovely break this summer – whichever stage you are at. email: aashmore@reviewmedia.com

It’s time to get a place of your own! And with Help to Buy you can afford it: With a Help to Buy interest free loan, you can buy a new two bedroom semi-detached home at Heritage View in Hadley with just a 5% deposit - here’s how it works:

The purchase price is:

£140,000

Get a 20% interest free loan of:

£28,000*

Get a 75% mortgage for:

£105,000

Pay a 5% deposit of only:

£7,000

Example based on plots 15 and 16, two bedroom Hawthorn, priced at £140,000

2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes available

Heritage View, Sommerfeld Road, Hadley, Telford, TF1 5RY

Help to Buy

Showhome open 10am to 5.30pm daily. Telephone: 07496 244146 or 0845 873 2893†

www.lioncourthomes.com †Calls will be charged at seven pence per minute from a BT landline and may cost considerably more from mobile and other phones. Contact your service provider for more details. Photographs show a typical Lioncourt home interior. *All offers are subject to terms and conditions. £7,000 deposit is based on a purchase price of £140,000 and is for example purposes only. There is no fee charged on the equity loan for the first 5 years. At the start of year 6 a fee is collected of 1.75% of the market value of the property at the time the loan is entered into multiplied by the outstanding percentage under the equity loan, the annual fee of 1.75% will be uplifted by RPI +1% p.a. Conditions apply and mortgage is subject to status. Please speak to our sales negotiator for more information..