County Woman December 2016 by Reviewmedia

FASHION * BEAUTY * EVENTS * PROPERTY * ENTERTAINMENT * PEOPLE

COUNTY ISSUE 43 DECEMBER 2016 made in shropshire

CHRISTMAS

WISHES WISHES CHRISTMAS

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE 43 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/COUNTYWOMAN

is the season to be jolly, and we have really got into the Christmas spirit putting your December issue of County Woman together.

There’s a suitably festive feel to our features

this month. I can’t wait to try out the recipes, both sweet and savoury; my decorations will be

getting a makeover inspired by our interiors spread (and we’ve found some sparkling buys here in Shropshire), and I’ll be shopping for a new winter coat to keep me warm when I step out in my party finery! Christmas is a time for families, and Jamie-Leigh Bird has had to make sacrifices, as a single mum, to build her beauty business. She tells us why it has all been worth it for her family. Another woman making her mark is artist Linda Edwards. Her collection of products featuring her distinctive scenes of Shropshire will no doubt have been bought as Christmas gifts by many. If you missed out in our great panto competitions last month, don’t worry, we have tickets for two more county shows for you to win. Wishing you the merriest of Christmasses and may Santa bring you everything you desire!

EDITOR

WOMAN 5 7 9 33 37 61 63

Objects of Desire Fashion – The party season Fashion – Stylefile Beauty Fashion – Grab your coat Linda Edwards – Sunny Side Art Jamie-Leigh Bird – House of Beauty

COMMUNITY 31 Health 39 Education

LEISURE 41 43

Shropshire Hills Art Week Events listings

HOMEFIRST 13 16 29

The finishing touch Interiors – Christmas style Down to Earth

FOOD + DRINK 51 52

Christmas recipes Sweet sensations

MARKETPLACE 11 58

Gorgeous goodies Travel – Tewkesbury Park

COMPETITIONS 65

Win panto tickets

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.

DECEMBER 2016

FASHION * BEAUTY * EVENTS * PROPERTY * ENTERTAINMENT * PEOPLE

COUNTY ISSUE 43 DECEMBER 2016 made in shropshire

homefirst

CHRISTMAS

WISHES WISHES CHRISTMAS

COVER: The Christmas countdown starts here 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 photo journalist: Karl Aston 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

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

Member of Professional Publishers Association

DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

of Desire

Objects

8 OF OUR FAVOURITE FINDS THIS MONTH

5 8 6

Santa baby… slip these treats under the tree please! 1. 12 Days of Beauty Treats, Next, £20. Featuring two scents – Fresh and Floral, and Sweet Dreams. A treat for each of the 12 Days of Christmas. 2. Reversible sheepskin gilet, The White Company, £525. Keeping you warm this winter. 3. Jacquard peep toe heels, Wallis, £35. Hot off the catwalk, with rich tones of red, green and gold, these high heeled sandals will get your feet noticed at this year’s parties. 4. Cocktail Kisses Fizz & Bubbles scented lip balm, Marks & Spencer, £3.50. Don’t go licking it all off! 5. Gold Lamy LX pen, Write Here, Shrewsbury, £46.50. Special edition pen made of aluminium detailed with precious metal, this is the perfect way to write your cards. 6. Gingerbread men and snowflakes, Lakeland, £6.99. Intricate tiles of wintery white and dark chocolate. 7. Black and gold clutch bag by Biba, House of Fraser, £99. Leather bag with more than a touch of Art Deco glamour. 8. Lariat necklace, Roobarb in Bridgnorth or www.LoveRoobarb.co.uk, £25. We love this clever necklace, finished with freshwater pearls, which can be worn in so many ways.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE | DECEMBER 2016

Passionate about changing lives

rom a secluded, tranquil, brick barn conversion in same, and Jane feels privileged to hear their stories and help create solutions picturesque Maesbury Marsh, near Oswestry, Jane for their aesthetic needs. Millington runs aesthetic clinic Body & Face Options. “I love to talk to people. Around 50% of my clientele have been coming Clients visit from Shropshire and beyond to reap the to me for 20 years. I count many of them as close friends,” she says. benefits of her 28-year experience in advanced non-surgical Jane started her own business from scratch 28 years ago after working body and face treatments. two jobs to support her two children and fund the training required for a With luxury accommodation available on site, she also has regular clients career as an Aesthetic Practitioner. Her journey started in a tiny room at from across Europe and counts famous faces among her regulars. She won’t the back of a Shrewsbury hair salon and has brought her to the beautiful reveal names, as confidentiality is a vital part of her barn conversion clinic, from which she works today business and an added benefit of her secluded location. with Amanda Evans. Jane describes Amanda – who has Around 50% of my Body & Face Options’ clinic feels warm and worked with Jane since she first moved to the Maesbury welcoming with log burners in winter and a garden with clientele have been Marsh clinic 13 years ago – as a treasured asset to the countryside views for the summer months; more like a business. coming to me for haven than a clinic. From the launch of her business, Jane has striven Body & Face Options provides procedures using the for the best. “When I started I invested £10,000 in the 20 years. I count latest cutting edge technology to give non-surgical body CACI Non Surgical Facelift machine. I was the first clinic changing results. Treatments include skin rejuvenation; to bring this machine to Shropshire,” she says. many of them as vein, mole and skin tag removal; non-surgical “Now, I continue to attend conferences and train in close friends liposuction; hair removal; semi-permanent make-up and many different aspects of the treatments that we offer, medical solutions. recently attending the Royal College of Surgeons in Jane doesn’t advocate Botox or fillers, preferring to offer natural London where I trained to do breast, areola and nipple reconstruction and alternatives that work with the body, using advanced treatments that make scar work.” use of oxygen, stem cell technology or electrical pulses. She still has the same passion and desire to do the very best for her She has helped patients suffering many conditions including facial customers, and despite the sleepy location, Jane prides her salon as one of paralysis due to Bell’s Palsy, breast reconstruction after surgery, scalp the most advanced aesthetic clinics in Europe. pigmentation for alopecia and treatments for scars and stubborn fatty area. For information visit www.bodyandfaceoptions.co.uk. To book a She also has several transgender clients whom she has advised on issues consultation telephone 01691 680070. such as hair removal and semi-permanent make-up. No person is ever the

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DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

PART 1

he party season is upon us and it’s the time of the year when diaries become full of social events. No doubt your main question will be, what am I going to wear? Retailers have gone above and beyond this season with the perfect party attire. From playsuits to dresses or skirts and bodysuits, find your winter 16/17 outfit and feel confidently gorgeous. Remember that the top trends for the season are metallic, sequins, lace, leather, velvet and army print; with that in mind, here are our top picks. Next month we’ll bring you Part 2 for your new year celebrations.

You can’t go wrong with this beautiful sparkle black mesh bodycon-midi-dress from Phase Eight. Team it with a pair of black heels and a dark lipstick to stand out at your party. £160.

WOMAN | DECEMBER 2016

Above L–R: Let the blouse do the talking, with a pair of black skinny jeans and heels. Miss Selfridge, £65; These crystal stone ear cuff earrings are the ideal accessory to add to your outfit, from Matalan, £10; Our top buy is this gold oriental print dress from New Look, £39.99. Complete the look with a pair of knee high boots to be bang on-trend; For a show-stopper that will get everyone staring choose a fully-sequined item like this dress, River Island, £75. Left: You don’t want to wear jeans? Choose these metallic trousers, Next, £28. Bottom left: Add some shimmer with this clutch bag, Miss Selfridge, £35. Far left: Wear this stunning skirt with a neutral top and shoes to really show it off, Debenhams, £165. Below: The ideal bargain party shoes, Primark, £10. Right: Wearing this Indigo lace strappy top is the perfect way to inject lace into your outfit, Marks & Spencer, £29.50.

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Stylefile

Robyn Moore on this

Skin care team’s national award

The Blue Lemon soap and skincare company has won the Janey Lee Grace Platinum Award for bes t natural soap and bodywash. The award recognises com panies and products which tak e a more natural, ethical approa ch to skincare. The high-profile Judges , who crowned the Geranium and Lavender Body Wash as winner, included Carrie Grant, Jo Wood and Zoe Ball. Jenny Muschner, owner of The Blue Lemon Company with her husband, Jorg, said: “I am so excited to win, especia lly as it’s one of our new produc ts.” The bodywash was dev eloped and made in Shrewsbu ry. The Blue Lemon has been ma king ethical and natural skin care with fair-traded ingred ients for six years. They moved to their Shrewsbury High Street location last year. The award-winning pro duct can be purchased from The Blue Lemon, 48 High Stre et, Shrewsbury.

The power of Bee Venom A friend introduced me to the Silver Bee Venom mask from Heaven by Debo rah Mitchell and I am ho oked. I didn’t believe the cre am would be so powerfu l but after one use I notice da dramatic difference in the appearance of my ski n. The mask contains bee venom that works to control the facial muscle s by lifting, tightening and firming, whilst getting to work on frown lines and wrinkles. It releases collagen which helps repair the skin and keeps it looking youthful. The mask contains organic lavender and rose as well as the

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bee venom and Manuk a honey. For more information, visit www. heavenskincare.com or visit the Heaven skincare shop in Shifna l.

Eyebrows on fleek!

There seems to be eve n more pressure on us to have perfec t brows with the hashtag #eyebrowson fleek trending all over social media site s. After the 90’s trend of super-thin brows, the over-plucking can leave you with areas of the eye brows never returning. So how do you achieve the thicker-fuller brow that celebrities are now showcasing? A new technique, microb lading, will fill in the gaps which wo n’t grow back. A special microblading pen is used to draw individual strokes one by one. The results can last up to thr ee years before beginning to fade, and as someone who pencils my brows in every day, I am applauding this beauty breakthrough. For more information or to book your appointment, visit, www.h ayleybox.co.uk.

Salon wins international award

Toni & Guy in Shrewsbu ry has won an international ‘salon of the year’ award from Label.M, which has put Shrewsbury on the map in front of an audience from around the world. Owner of the salon, Ga vin Pulham, said that he was thrilled to receive the title. He said: “This award rec ognises our efforts in the salon to bui ld the Label.M brand and to train staff in the use of the range of products.” Congratulations to Gavin and your team.

DECEMBER 2016

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Chunky bowl with lid, plate and spoon. Microwave and dishwasher safe. Presented in a delightful market deli themed box it is the perfect gift for soup lovers. Different colours available. Price £16.99

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GIFT PROBLEMS! Give a portrait gift voucher this Christmas. Make Christmas extra special with a gift they won’t want to exchange.

Spa Packages are the gift that is sure to please. For a really memorable gift follow your treatment with our Moroccan tea ceremony or Spa lunch. Prices start at just £15

Tel: 01691 657555 or 07779 132023

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What Women Want

Apley Farm Shop

Enjoy!

From Fantasie: Francesca side support bra and briefs, in strawberry. Natasha plunge bra and briefs, in black. Natasha chemise, in black. Bras from £40. Briefs from £21. Chemises from £54.

Hampers available in our farm shop or from our online shop. Open 7 days a week. Choose from a fantastic range of fine food and drink, many from Shropshire suppliers Prices from £14.99

Cute fair trade hand felted hedgehogs from Nepal with proceeds from each one going directly to the workforce. Approx 7cm from nose to tail they sit comfortably in the palm of your hand. £5 each

12 High Street, Newport TF10 7AN

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Tel: 01952 820044 www.whatwomenwantuk.com

Tel: 01952 730 34 www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk

Tel: 01743 241533 www.enjoyfairtrade.co.uk

Rowanthorn

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The Beauty Room

Rowanthorn is an eclectic gift and clothing shop, located in the Shropshire market town of Oswestry - the perfect place to find unusual gifts. Salt lamps from just £16.50

Hand-poured Inspiritus scented candles from the St Eval candle company with a warm and uplifting scent of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Prices from £3.99

Vouchers available on all treatments. Treat your loved one to a little pampering this festive season.

Tel: 01952 929120 find us on facebook

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4 Old Chapel Court English Walls, Oswestry SY11 2PD

Tel: 01691 238227 www.rowanthorn.co.uk

64 High Street, Newport TF10 7BA

Unit 3, 22-24 High Street, (Nock Deighton building) Newport

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE | DECEMBER 2016

Change in Inheritance Tax Relief It was announced by the Chancellor that Inheritance Tax (IHT) was to rise by £175,000 in April 2017. This was received as a welcome relief to many however, the changes in IHT are not as straight forward as adding £175,000 to the current IHT allowance of £325,000. The current individual rate of IHT will remain at £325,000 and a new allowance of Residential Nil Rate Band (RNRB) will be introduced on the 6th April 2017 of £100,000. The RNRB will thereafter increase every year thereafter by £25,000 until April 2020 when the allowance will be £175,000. On the death of the first spouse it is possible to carry any unused IHT forward and use it on the death of the surviving spouse. A similar rule is in force to allow the RNRB to be passed on the death of the first spouse and used on the death of the surviving spouse. The outcome of the change will result in married couples potentially having a combined RNRB and Inheritance tax allowance of £850,000 rising to £1,000,000 in April 2020. RNRB will be available upon a residential property which has been occupied by a person at sometime during their ownership

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and it does not necessarily have to be their main residence. The property will need to be gifted on death to children and descendants; the lineal line but can be gifted to the surviving spouse, in the first instance. Like everything, there are limitations, the RNRB can only be used on one property and not divided between two and is capped at the value of the deceased’s interest in the property. Furthermore, if the property is left in a Discretionary Trust (where the property is not left to any one named beneficiary but is left to be distributed at the discretion of the trustees) the relief cannot be claimed. For people with estates of £2,000,000 or more there will be tapered withdrawal of the RNRB at the rate of £1 for every £2 over the threshold. Terry Jones Solicitors would recommend that everyone who has a Will should look at reviewing their Wills to establish if the RNRB will provide greater tax relief to their estate. Inheritance Tax is payable at the rate of

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40% once all allowances are exhausted. For those who do not have a Will, now is the perfect opportunity to consider making one. There is also good news for those who have downsized or ceased to own a home after the 8th July 2015. You can also use the RNRB where assets to the equivalent value are passed on death to lineal descendants. If this may apply to you, it is important to keep a record of sales or gifts of property. If you are appointed as an Executor in an Estate of someone who has died and have accepted responsibility for administering the Estate, it is may also possible to make the Estate more tax efficient by using the RNRB, through all parties involved formally agreeing to vary the terms of the Will. This is one of many reasons why Terry Jones Solicitors always recommend instructing a Solicitor to assist in the administration of an Estate as often tax payable can be reduced. Should you wish for further information regarding the making of a Will or for us to assist in the Administration of an Estate, please contact Rachel Wood, a Solicitor and Director of Terry Jones on 01746 768748 or rachelw@terry-jones.co.uk

DECEMBER 2016 | HOMEFIRST

F E H T

TOUCH G HIN S I N

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Father Christmas sculpture, £399 from the British Ironwork Centre, near Oswestry. Hand crafted from sheet steel, standing 1.6m tall The Twelve Days of Christmas, £35 from Sweet Cheeks, Oswestry. Complete with a partridge in a pear tree. LED wooden star, £19.99 from Lakeland, Shrewsbury. Scandi-style. Ten warm white LEDS cast a glow over the willow branches inside. Molten wonky fused glass hanging green Christmas tree, £5 from Enjoy! In Shrewsbury. Handmade, so each one will vary. Crushed bead pear, £2.50 from the National Trust – properties at Dudmaston Hall and Attingham Park. One of a range of fruity decorations. Standing reindeer, £39 from Alan Ward, Shrewsbury. Cute and furry. Decorative wooden church, £22 from LW Foxall, Bridgnorth. Interior lights are battery powered for a Midnight Mass glow. Heart wreath with stars and berries, £29.99 from Vinegar Hill, Shrewsbury. Gold lace ball, £1.99; Old Rose paper ball, £1.79; pink lace ball, £1.99, from Wyevale Garden Centres at Shipley and Albrighton. CENTRE: Stag, £9.99 from Tea and Roses, Bridgnorth. In antiqued gold finish.

DECEMBER 2016

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HOMEFIRST| DECEMBER 2016

What’s your Christmas style? Cool and co-ordinated? Bright and brash? Warm and welcoming or icy white? There’s plenty of inspiration from the high street giants this year; here are a few suggestions to help you deck your halls this festive season. LEFT: Nothing says Christmas like reds and greens. Selection from Marks & Spencer, including natural wreath, £35 BELOW: Ice ice baby with George at Home; pictured is a selection from the Winter Wilderness range. Prices start from £2

DECEMBER 2016 | HOMEFIRST

RIGHT: Go gold with House of Fraser. 6ft Salzburg tree £150, tree decorations from £6, deco glitter wrap (2m) £5, gold sequin wrap (3m) £5, glitter reindeers, small £15 large £25, deco tealight holders £40 each, White Christmas candle £12, Champagne pepper berry garland £55, star lights £8, Living by Christiane Lemieux sun mirror £126 ABOVE: Dunelm call this their Christmas Cabin look and it suits a country cottage. Merry Christmas bunting £3; furniture is Knightsbridge large sofa in alegra cream £999.99, Avala cushion teal £10, Cole mini sideboard £299.99, Cole coffee table £349.99 LEFT: Have some fun with iconic images from childhood Christmases with Dunelm. 4ft pop up tree silver £20, 4ft pop up tree white £30, reindeer metal room decoration £13, Santa & present room decoration £10, snowman metal room decoration £13, tree scene metal room decoration £15, novelty Santa cushion £13, bell snowman room decoration £10, drummer boy room decoration £13, penguin metal room decoration £5 Clashing colours are also tipped to be big this year. RIGHT: 3ft pink tree, £5 from B&Q FACING PAGE TOP: Red berries with chalkboard wreath, £15 from B&Q TOP: Blue spikey star and pink starburst, £2.99 each from Wyevale garden centres

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Poor interest rates suggest it’s time to invest in property

ith interest rates being at an alltime low, shopping around for a good rate of return from a bank or building society is somewhat difficult. Ross D’Anellio, head of country homes at Nock Deighton, says that everyone should consider investing in property – and here, he explains why... He says: “If you are downsizing and wish to release the equity from your property, or if you simply have some savings which are not earning much interest, what are your options? “You could invest in stocks and shares, with rates of return on these types of investments typically around 3.5 per cent to 4.5 per cent, but that is of course if the investments are performing well. “If you have considered property but don’t want the hassle, then just consider these figures for a moment. “It is not unrealistic to expect a net return of up to 6 per cent on a rental investment property, and that’s not even taking into

Post referendum, the market has thrown up a few pleasant surprises... the south east is propping up the regional market Ross D’Aniello account the capital growth of the asset. “A three-bed semi-detached house somewhere in Shropshire might cost £150,000 to buy, and if you receive a rent of £775 per calendar month, that is a 6.2 per cent return. “With management fees typically being around 10 per cent, this means you can expect

Bungalow sold in three weeks The fast-paced nature of Shropshire’s property market is demonstrated by this month’s success story from Nock Deighton. This bungalow in Ludlow was only the market for three weeks before being snapped up for close to its asking price. The three-bedroom property has fabulous views to Ludlow Castle and the beautiful Whitcliffe Common beyond, as well as a lovely private garden. Susan Northwood, Nock Deighton’s Ludlow office manager, said: “This property was extremely popular, with 10 viewings and three offers being made in the weeks immediately after being put on the market. “It just goes to show how fast things can move when a property is presented in the right way. “It also shows how popular Ludlow is as a residential location, which can be said for much of Shropshire to be honest - it is a very desirable place to live, which is being demonstrated by these quick sales.”

a net yield of 5.58 per cent. “Rental prices are remaining strong with a significant amount of activity in this sector making it a more and more attractive proposition. “The ‘housing crisis’ in the UK has fuelled this activity and it shows no sign of changing significantly with the Government’s new stance on the Help to Buy scheme. “Nock Deighton’s well-established property management department can take the hassle of renting away from you. “We ensure that each of the 700-plus properties that we manage has a dedicated property manager, one person who is responsible for the day to day management of your investment and reports directly to you. “Each of our regional offices has a team who can inspect, market and let your property and then pass on the management to our property management department.” For more details, call the team on 01952 290163.

Gorgeous, superb quality, four-bedroom barn conversion The Shippen, Ellerton Grange, Ellerton is on the market with a guide price of £425,000. Premiership Town and Country developments have a reputation for high quality barn conversions and small developments. At Ellerton Grange Barns careful consideration has been given to the layout of the site, property design and internal fixtures and fittings. The Shippen is a 4 bedroom barn conversion offering flexible accommodation having a master bedroom suite to the first floor and 3 further bedrooms all with en-suite. In addition the property consists of a kitchen, sitting/dining room, utility and guest cloakroom and family bathroom. The Shippen retains many character features and

boasts under floor heating, oak doors, flooring and windows. Purchasers benefit from having a choice of high quality kitchens, bathroom and tiling to choose from to suit their own interior style. Gardens to the front and rear are of a

Tall Trees, Highley, Bridgnorth

generous size with the rear garden being fully enclosed with gated access. To the front is parking for two vehicles and there is additional parking and storage at the nearby stable block. Ellerton Grange Barns are an exclusive development approximately 6 miles from the popular market town of Newport. Ellerton is surrounded by open countryside and the barns are approached over a tree lined driveway. Photographs shown are examples of the quality of the finish in the completed barns at this development. Contact Nock Deighton’s Newport office on 01952 570 222.

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1 Hiton, Hilton, Bridgnorth

26 Kidderminster Road, Bridgnorth

1 Lodge Cottages, Criddon, Bridgnorth A delightful character cottage with timber framed annex, in an idyllic rural location, set within just under an acre of mature gardens. Having been cleverly extended, this superb semi-detached cottage offers well-proportioned accommodation throughout, in addition to ample parking and an acre of mature gardens with stunning countryside views. No Upward Chain. Energy rating- G

£375,000

£450,000

Grade II listed Georgian detached home standing in a 1/3 acre plot. Offering lots of original character and charm including feature fireplaces and exposed beams & timbers.

£325,000

1930’s traditional five bed detached property extended to provide impressive accommodation. Energy rating- E

activity over the summer and they were flabbergasted when the engineer showed them what was inside the boiler,” she said. “I have been in property management for more than 30 years and have never seen anything like this, nor had the gas engineer. “We can only assume the bees had got in through the air intake of the boiler flue, and for some reason decided to abandon the nest at some point. “The engineer found a few dead bees in the boiler but not many, so we really don’t know what happened to the rest of them. “The boiler is inspected every year, so the bees must have built the nest during this summer while it was switched off. “It certainly highlights the importance of carrying out regular checks of your property. “Getting the boiler serviced every year is just one of the ways of keeping on top of maintenance issues, whether it’s a faulty cable or a bees’ nest.”

Buckatree Farm Cottage, Wrekin

House prices have continued their steady rise in Shropshire, according to the latest figures from county estate agents. Nock Deighton produces a monthly House Price Index to track how the housing market is performing, and analysts have just published their latest report. The figures show a monthly increase of 0.8 per cent, and an annual rise of 5.6 per cent. Sales and marketing director at Nock Deighton, Mike Nettleton, said: “It seems a fitting way to round off this year’s reports with another steady rise in house prices. “The prevailing theme throughout 2016 has been consistent gradual increases, which is evidence of a fairly balanced market. However, the other recurring message has been a lack of new housing coming on to the market, and that is still very much the case as we close in on 2017. “What that means is that it is still a good market if you are thinking of selling your house, because the demand is very much there.”

£595,000

Mike Nettleton

gas engineer in Shropshire had the surprise of his life when he opened a central heating boiler to discover a huge bees’ nest had been created inside. The residents of the house, in Coalport, were blissfully unaware that a colony of bees had moved into the boiler while it had been switched off during the summer. The nest was only discovered when Nock Deighton’s approved gas engineer, Dene Rozier, called to complete the annual safety check on the boiler – the honeycomb was half full of honey, but by then most of the bees had disappeared. Dawn Clarke, director of property management at Shropshire letting agents Nock Deighton, which manages the rented property, said the fate of the bees was a mystery. “The tenants had not noticed any unusual

Dawn Clarke

Honey, we have a buzzing boiler A

Rounding year off on a high

Willow House, Wellington

£450,000

A family home with outbuildings and fields, pleasantly situated with beautiful far reaching open views. Energy rating – G.

A well presented 11 bedroom detached, currently being used as a B&B. Ideal and easy to convert to a HMO (subject to planning).

6 Crowdale Road, Shawbirch

12 Fuchsia Close, Priorslee

The Apiary, 42 Horton, Telford This well presented home briefly comprises: hall, family room with ground floor bathroom, kitchen/dining room, living room study, guest cloakroom, utility room. The family room and ground floor bathroom are set up in a way that lends itself to becoming a 5th bedroom with en suite/annexe. Four bedrooms, two en-suite shower rooms and family bathroom. There is a double garage. To the rear there is a patio, large circular lawn, ornamental fountain, large vegetable garden and orchard stocked with various fruit trees. Energy rating - C.

£649,950

£254,950

A spacious four bedroom detached family home with conservatory and double garage. Energy rating – D.

£224,950

A well presented four bedroom detached family home situated within a popular residential development. Energy rating – C.

Willow House, Much Wenlock

£429,500

The small picturesque historic town of Much Wenlock lies at the eastern end of Shropshire’s most famous Wenlock Edge in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The accommodation briefly comprises entrance porch, utility room, guest cloakroom and wc, dining room, sitting room and conservatory overlooking the gardens. The refitted breakfast kitchen has built in appliances, gas hob with extractor over, Neff double oven and dishwasher. To the first floor the accommodation has been adapted to the current owners lifestyle but has potential for other uses. The master bedroom includes a range of built in wardrobes and a separate dressing room together with bath, wash basin, wc and bidet. There are three further bedrooms one featuring an en-suite and one with fitted wardrobes. To the outside is a double garage with twin electric doors. The front garden is lawned with a wide variety of ornamental trees and shrubs. There is a further secluded garden to the side and to the rear is a wide paved terrace and gently sloping lawn with borders and shrubs. Energy rating – D.

The Old Bakery, Rodington Heath

£450,000

The Byre, Leighton

£345,000

Old School House, Chetwynd, Newport £485,000 Old School House is a beautiful family home dating back to 1867 when originally it was the local village primary school. Echoes of the past can be found outside in the original wall that separated the boys and girls playgrounds as well as in the character features which have remained throughout. This property now offers light, well-proportioned accommodation with a layout to suit modern family living. Old School House is entered through the original school door and into the hall having wood panelled walls, a feature stained glass window and stairs rising to a galleried landing with a vaulted ceiling. The breakfast kitchen has a range of units with integrated appliances and access to the boot room leading out to the rear garden. From the kitchen double doors open into the dining room and bi folding doors can be used to create a separate seating area/snug. The sitting room has countryside views and French doors opening into a conservatory. On the first floor the master bedroom has fitted wardrobes and en-suite with whirlpool bath. There are three further double bedroooms and a family bathroom. The rear and side gardens are fully enclosed, mainly laid to lawn with well stocked borders and a paved patio. The detached garage has electric doors, light and power. Energy rating – F.

Homebrook House, Hinstock

£499,950

Ox Hay Barn, Blymhill

£459,950

A very nicely presented three/four bedroom family home with large gardens & detached self-contained two bedroom annexe. Energy rating – E.

An impressive four bedroom barn conversion with feature exposed beams lying in a small rural village. Energy rating – F.

A beautiful house of distinction standing in a large gated plot of delightful manicured gardens. Energy Rating – E.

An immaculate, spacious, barn conversion with generous gardens and parking in an idyllic countryside location. Grade II Listed.

43 Church Hill, Ironbridge

8 The Close, Coalbrookdale

The Old Stables, Tibberton

4b Betton Mill, Market Drayton

£265,000

An excellent three bedroom home with generous proportions, a flexible layout throughout and just a short walk to the amenities of Ironbridge. Energy rating – D.

£240,000

A spacious detached three bedroom family home within a small cul-de-sac. Energy rating - D.

£225,000

The Old Stables is a semi detached barn with full planning permission for conversion into a 4 bedroom residence.

£164,995

An exceptionally well presented apartment in a delightful canal side setting. Energy Rating – B.

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE | DECEMBER 2016

n Tudor Griffiths joins competition winners Issy Lear, Olivia Hall and Noah Faulkner to officially open the new branch

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he Tudor Griffiths Group is one of the UK’s leading independent businesses in the supply of construction material and building supplies, ready mix concrete, skip hire, waste management and recycling. The group recently opened its new Chartwell Park branch in Bridgnorth, when hundreds of visitors attended a two-day launch weekend. Managing director Tudor Griffiths said: “We organised the gala event to mark the opening of our Chartwell Park branch on a six-acre site and both trade and retail customers enjoyed a whole host of activities – including a visit from the famous Dulux dog! “We were absolutely delighted with the response to our Grand Launch, and it was great to see so many people on site.” The official opening of the branch was performed by schoolchildren from across Shropshire who won a Design-a-Garden competition that was organised earlier in the summer. The competition winner, Issy Lear from St Peter’s Primary School in Wem, cut the ribbon with Tudor Griffiths, along with runners-up Olivia Hall from Shrewsbury High School and Noah Faulkner of Harlescott Junior School in Shrewsbury. Issy also received £1,000 worth of vouchers for her school to bring her project to life, and the runners-up received £250 worth of vouchers each to spend at Tudor Griffiths on landscaping materials. Mr Griffiths continued: “We had such a fantastic response to our Design a Garden competition, and we wanted to make our winner and runners-up the stars of the show on this very special weekend.” Local MP Philip Dunne also joined in with the celebrations, with all kinds of children’s activities

available including a bouncy castle and face painting, free refreshments, and a visit from the Dulux dog. As well as eight builders’ merchants, Tudor Griffiths Group also operates 12 ready mixed concrete plants, two sand and gravel quarries, a sea-dredged sand operation, recycling services and skip hire. The company was formed over 140 years ago and is still owned and run by the Griffiths family, who live near Oswestry in North Shropshire. The current chairman is William (Billy) Griffiths and the current managing director is his son Tudor. The seeds of the company were sown in the second half of the 19th century, when the economic landscape of the world was very different from today. Great Britain had an Empire that spanned the globe and the industrial revolution was in full swing. In the village of Knockin, near Oswestry, the Griffiths family ran a grocery shop, and one of the members of that family, 25-year-old William Griffiths, decided he wanted to set himself up as a builder working for local farms and estate owners. So in 1874 Williams established his new business in nearby Kinnerly, where he began making bricks and drainage pipes. With strong community roots, the company is keen to get involved in raising money for local good causes and raised £3,350 for the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity in October. The money was raised by this year’s Llanfyllin Show President Moyra Griffiths and her daughter, Joy, who are both directors of the Tudor Griffiths Group. Moyra was delighted to be invited to become show president as she has strong family connections with Llanfyllin, and celebrated her appointment with a president’s lunch at Aston Hall. “My husband, Billy, is the chairman of the Tudor Griffiths Group, and as well as the lunch we held a joint birthday celebration to mark his 75th birthday and our daughter Joy’s 45th

birthday, where our guests gave generous donations. “Thanks to their incredible generosity, we have now been able to donate the money to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity which does such vital work all over the county and beyond. “As a family we’ve always been loyal supporters of local charities, and we decided to use this very special year of family celebrations to help a cause that makes such a difference to so many people’s lives.” Midlands Air Ambulance is the charity responsible for funding and operating three air ambulances serving the communities of Shropshire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

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DECEMBER 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, has been growing plants for the last 27 years.

DECEMBER TIPS FOR THE GARDEN

Pick your poinsettia

As in November, if the weather continues to be mild your grass will still be growing, so give it a mow on a high setting. When all is done clean and oil your lawn mower before storing away over the winter. Clear up any leaf fall from borders/vegetable patches and off the tops of ponds. Protect any vulnerable plants from frosts using frost fleece. In the vegetable patch stake Brussels sprouts, and prune white currants, gooseberries and raspberries. Harvest turnips, swede, parsnips and beetroot. As this is the month of Christmas here is a short tip on keeping your fresh cut Christmas trees:Provide your tree with the appropriate stand, one that has a reservoir and holds water, a tree loses water when cut so to maintain your tree it will need water (just like you would with fresh cut flowers in a vase). Cut approximately 1” off the bottom to create a fresh cut before placing in the stand (this will encourage the tree to drink), when you have placed your tree in it fill with water. Usually it will drink the first fill overnight, then it will slow down, so check it every day and top it up. Keep your tree away from heat sources such as radiators and open fires, the cooler you can keep it the better the longevity it will have. The two main trees available are Norway Spruce (this is a traditional tree but does have a reputation for being prickly and losing its needles) and Nordmann Fir, which is a more popular tree these days as it keeps it needles and is soft to the touch. Another tree that keeps its needles and is becoming popular is the Noble Fir. All are beautiful and if kept in the correct conditions will bring joy to any household. A final point to make is that Christmas trees are farmed and not cut from unmanaged forests and when they are cut, new trees are planted ready to grow for another Christmas. If you have Christmas plants such as poinsettia remember these need keeping in the warm, and watered from the bottom with tepid water, they don’t like the cold or draughts. Easy plants to keep over Christmas are Christmas cacti or kalanchoe, giving plenty of colour throughout the festive period. Wishing you all a good Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us here at Meadowdale Garden Centre, and we look forward to giving you some more hints on gardening in 2017.

elicate furled edges, ripples, rounded pom poms and scrunched velvet textures, in spectrums of colour from antique peach to deep maroon, cinammon hues, Barbie pink, yellow, ombre, stripes and spatters. Few are aware of the poinsettia’s many changing faces, as over 80% of the UK’s plants are standard red, but science and horticulture has taken a leap over the last century and we’re now offered a spectacular range of festive favourites, a million miles from those growing wild in the Mexican highlands. These days the poinsettia, a Christmas classic since the 1950s, is often maligned as the season’s supermarket add-on, popped in the trolley along with the sprouts. What’s forgotten is the plant’s versatile nature, its now extremely wide variety of colours, shapes and textures, and its rich history. German plant breeders were the first to succeed in cultivating shortstemmed, compact potted varieties that could withstand European temperatures. Since then we’ve seen the collection take off, featuring over 150 varieties. Varieties differ in colour, growth and leaf shape; foliage can be pointed, jagged or furled, appearing like oak leaves or wrinkled like scrunchies. They are available in all sizes from miniatures at just a few centimetres tall to regular potted sizes and bushy shrubs, through to small trees with trunks of up to a metre. Getting your hands on one of these poinsettia rarities isn’t as hard as you might think. Ask your local florist or garden centre and they should either stock them already or be able to source for you.

Fast facts: • Dense foligate and yellow-green budding flowers in between the coloured bracts are a sign of quality. • Protect your plant from the wind and get it quickly back to its warm new home. • Keep it in a bright, warm spot (around 20c). It can be close to a radiator but not in direct sunlight or near draughts – so keep away from open doors, windows and fireplaces. • Only water when the soil is almost dry and don’t leave it sitting in a pool in the bottom of the pot. • To use the leaves as fresh flowers in a vase, cut the bracts, dip the cut ends in boiling water for 20 seconds then immediately in cold water, and you are ready to arrange.

For further information please see our website www.meadowdale-nurseries.co.uk or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/meadowdalenurseries. Better still, why not visit us at our nurseries in Telford, where our staff will be happy to help you with any gardening questions you have.

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DECEMBER 2016 | HEALTH

CURRIES, SAWS AND BOTTOMS

Anxious?

Dr Simon Carvell

Watch what you eat

t will soon be Christmas – a time for family get-togethers, office parties and evenings out. But for many people this can be a daunting time. If you struggle to deal with certain situations, including social settings, then big events like Christmas may make it worse. You are not alone. There are over 8.2 million cases of anxiety in the UK and according to Cambridge University, women are nearly twice as likely to experience anxiety as men. Clammy palms, pounding heart or feeling dizzy? These can be common signs of anxiety, but often stress and anxiety are not clearly distinguished. Stress is a response to what appears to be a threat in a situation and the anxiety is a reaction to this. “Anxiety is characterised by impatience, poor concentration, a feeling of helplessness, irritability, being tense and restless,” explains Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at SuperfoodUK. com, the online shopping destination for health and wellbeing. “This is a normal response sometimes in life, but if the symptoms become too frequent it can cause problems. Other symptoms which are more severe could include chest tightness, indigestion, dry mouth, fatigue, sweating and headaches.” Dr Marilyn Glenville, nutritionist and author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar, recommends the following to help us combat those feelings of apprehension:

Watch the caffeine Caffeine is a stimulant, which prompts your body to release the stress hormones making you feel more stressed and jittery than you should be. Also caffeine is addictive. Tea and coffee act like a drug. As the effect of the caffeine wears off, you will want another one and then you are back on that rollercoaster of highs and lows, exactly like the highs and lows of blood sugar. If you add sugar to the tea or coffee the highs will be higher and the lows lower making you feel even more stressed.

Because caffeine acts like a drug, you wouldn’t be advised to stop suddenly and go ‘cold turkey’ because you could experience quite dramatic withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, tiredness, muscle cramps and depression. Try cutting down gradually, substituting some of your usual drinks for healthier alternatives. Begin by substituting decaffeinated coffee for half of your total intake per day, and then gradually change over to all decaffeinated. Then slowly substitute other drinks, such as herbal teas and grain coffees. You should, ideally, eventually eliminate decaffeinated coffee as well because coffee contains other stimulants (theobromine and theophylline), which are not removed when the coffee is decaffeinated.

Increase your ‘feel good’ hormone We need to make sure that our levels of serotonin remain high. A simple change of diet can work wonders! The body makes serotonin from tryptophan, which occurs naturally in foods such as dairy products, fish, bananas, dried dates, soya, almonds and peanuts. Combining the foods mentioned above with unrefined carbohydrates, such as brown rice, wholemeal bread or oats, helps the body to release insulin to help tryptophan uptake to the brain. A good example would be to kickstart your day with eggs and wholemeal toast for breakfast.

Steady your sugar levels Balancing blood sugar is essential in lowering stress because the crashes in sugar levels which happen through the day stimulates the stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, to be released. So, ensure you have a small meal every 2-3 hours that contains protein (eat breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a snack mid morning and one mid afternoon). For example, a hardboiled egg, 10-12 almonds, a small can of tuna and brown rice. This will stop those rollercoaster highs and cravings for sweet foods.

Another year has flown past. I’ve acquired a whole new language; it’s EPIC (an acronym). I’ve become aware of the emphasis on SEQUIN. I’ve used the SPA (single point of access) to access the MASH. My life has turned into a series of codes. Recently I went through a crisis of muddled acronyms and almost needed a course of CBT. As a GP trainer I’ve got an ESR (educational supervisor’s report) to do before Christmas, I just hope my ST1 has done sufficient mini-cex or COTS (consultation observation tools) and CEPs (clinical examination and procedural skills assessment). The language of medicine is changing! Some of the acronyms, as you may have noticed, haven’t even got a definition – or is that I just can’t be bothered to remember them! What isn’t changing is the appreciation of people for effort and advice. I’ve been so touched by some of the gestures that patients have made towards me over the last 12 months. I have received two fresh trout, a goat curry with rice, punnets of cherry tomatoes, a bag of apples, a saw, some pickled bottoms and a ceramic monk full of mead. The saw was very sharp. Friends and relatives recognised that I ought to be dispossessed of this tool with some haste. My DIY skills are legendary, or infamous depending upon the task that I’ve faced. The pickled bottoms caused some consternation amongst reception staff but turned out to be a jar of pop socks filled with rice and moulded to look like bottoms. The infection control assessment of my room meant that they were removed, along with the plugs and towels! The ceramic monk was an unusual present – as if the othere’s weren’t! However I try to resist the temptation of a draft of mead at the end of a challenging day. It seems more appropriate to dip into my freshly picked garden produce. This year I have fielded a number of enquiries about medicine as a career. I would encourage anyone with an interest in science and communication to consider medicine. When I was considering university courses no-one at my school had applied to do medicine for a number of years. With the right A level choices and lots of effort it’s not beyond people. I’ve enjoyed my career in medicine. The world may be changing, acronyms will come and go but I would always encourage people to consider MBChB or Medicinae Baccalaureus, Baccalaureus Chirurgiae (a medical degree). Happy Christmas.

DECEMBER 2016

Waste and recycling over the festive period The day of the week your waste and recycling is collected will change over the Christmas period. If your usual collection day is...

...your Christmas collection will be:

Monday 19 December 2016 Tuesday 20 December 2016 Wednesday 21 December 2016 Thursday 22 December 2016 Friday 23 December 2016

No change No change No change No change No change

Monday 26 December 2016 Tuesday 27 December 2016 Wednesday 28 December 2016 Thursday 29 December 2016 Friday 30 December 2016

Saturday 24 December 2016 Wednesday 28 December 2016 Thursday 29 December 2016 Friday 30 December 2016 Saturday 31 December 2016

Monday 2 January 2017 Tuesday 3 January 2017 Wednesday 4 January 2017 Thursday 5 January 2017 Friday 6 January 2017

Tuesday 3 January 2017 Wednesday 4 January 2017 Thursday 5 January 2017 Friday 6 January 2017 Saturday 7 January 2017

Collections will return to normal from Monday 9 January 2017 Red = earlier collection Blue = later collection These changes start the weekend before Christmas and end on Saturday 7 January 2017. Some collections will be before your usual day of collection but most collections will be later.

In bad weather: please leave bins out until they are collected. For boxes, please take them back in if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not collected as they can be a trip hazard, and put them out on the next scheduled collection day.

Working in partnership

DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

IMAGE COURTESY OF PRIMARK

Beauty Your social calendar is about to get rather busy over the Christmas period, so how can you prepare your hair and body to feel sensational at every event? Robyn Moore shows us how

The fake tan A tan can instantly make you look more radiant and defined and with fake tan solutions developing all the time, you don’t have to be orange, streaky or wake up to a horrible fake tan smell any more. The key to a successful fake tan is: • Always use a fake tan mitt to avoid being left with orange hands and to distribute the lotion more evenly • Ensure your skin is exfoliated and moisturised the day before to create an even texture • Do not apply deodorant or perfume prior to tanning • Leave the tan to develop overnight • Never fake tan straight after a hot bath or shaving because your pores are still open. It will make the tan spotty or the pores will become irritated If you are not brave enough to tan alone then book a professional spray tan two days before your event.

Nails

Matte black nail varnish £2.99, and quick dry mist £1.99, from New Look and Ardell false eyelashes with glue, Boots, £5.49

Eyelashes False eyelashes are a must for the party season, not only do they enhance your lashes, they give the illusion of a wider eye. Always have a practice so you know how to apply the strips and cut them down to the right size for your eyes. False eyelashes can transition your day look into an evening look flawlessly. Always throw your glue into your clutch bag just in case one comes lose during the night.

IMAGE COURTESY OF PRIMARK

Dark nails are in for winter so think dark purples, black and dark greys. Add a modern twist

to your nails and buy a mattelook varnish. If your nails don’t hold nail varnish for long enough, then book yourself in for gel-nail varnish. I recently had my nails painted with gel-nail varnish at the House of Beauty in Shifnal and it lasted for two weeks, perfectly low maintenance for the party season. If you are using acrylic nails then avoid technicians who use electric drills and files on your nails, you will be left with sore nail beds with broken and thin nails after they are removed.

Hair

Fragrance

If you are pushed for time and can’t fit in a professional blowdry then don’t panic, follow these simple rules to gorgeous hair. Once you have washed your hair apply a blowdry lotion or an oil to keep hair smooth. Always use your nozzle on the end of your hairdryer. The direct air flow is designed to keep your hair cuticle lying flat in the correct direction so your hair appears smooth and healthy. Don’t go too adventurous, you will spend more time trying to flatten the extra curly curls or brushing out extreme backcombing. Play it safe but spend more time on perfecting it. Always use a hairspray to fix your style, even if it is a light spray…Hair needs fixing in this weather.

Never mix too many perfumes and don’t over spray. Once you have sprayed your body and garments add a spritz to your hair by holding your arm up directly above your head and letting the fragrance particles fall down on your hair. Always take a fragrance in your bag but try and buy a smaller bottle or a roll-on so you won’t be too heartbroken when you realise you have lost you £60 bottle of perfume.

Lips The night before your event, brush your lips lightly with your toothbrush or exfoliating wash and apply a thick covering of Vaseline to wake up with soft lips which are lipstick ready.

DECEMBER 2016

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

INHERITANCE DISPUTES ON THE UP He made his name as ‘The Fifth Beatle’ but music producer, the late Sir George Martin, has been making headlines of his own recently after his will revealed that his eldest son will inherit nothing from his million pound estate. With the number of inheritance disputes increasing eight-fold in the last year, Margaret Rowe, a Partner in the Wills, Probate and Lifetime Planning team at Shropshire law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, looks at both sides of the disputed probate issue.

he news that more cases are reaching the High Court under the Inheritance Act than ever before is no surprise to a lawyer – those that get to court are just the tip of the iceberg. The number of second marriages, changing family structures and higher house prices means people are now, more than ever, challenging wills. It does underline how crucial it is to have

your will properly drafted. If you divorce or remarry, make sure you update it to reflect your circumstances. And if you want to disinherit a child, make sure you give details why as you need watertight reasons to exclude them. Using a solicitor is important as they have a duty to keep records whereas other organisations don’t have the same responsibility. If your will is challenged, there needs to be evidence of why you disinherited someone. If you believe you have been wrongfully excluded from a will or unfairly treated, always consult a solicitor with experience in contentious probate to help you establish if there is a case to answer. A will may be invalid or it may be that undue pressure was placed on the deceased. A solicitor will confirm if there are grounds for a case but always remember certain claims must be made within six months of the date the Grant of Probate being obtained.”

If you’d like to know more contact Margaret Rowe on 01952 208433 or by email at m.rowe@fbcmb.co.uk. Margaret is a key member of FBC Manby Bowdler’s Disputed Probate team. She also advises on the administration of estates and trusts, advice in connection with breach of trust or breach of duty, application of the intestacy rule and obtaining grants of probate and letters of administration. She is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and also a member of Solicitors For the Elderly (SFE).

Margaret Rowe, a Partner at FBC Manby Bowdler

THE VICARAGE NURSING HOME The Vicarage Nursing Home provides high quality, 24-hour, nursing care. It is situated in the quiet, semirural location of Bayston Hill near Shrewsbury. We have themed hallways, feature bedroom doors and a specially designed dining room. A full activities program, person centre and one-to-one activities and quality entertainers. Beautiful landscaped and sensory gardens, vegetable plots and greenhouses.

LUXURY NURSING HOME NOW OFFERS 24 HOUR NURSING, RESPITE AND PALLIATIVE CARE

Superbly appointed, modern bedrooms all with en-suite wet rooms and set in the beautiful surroundings of a 42-acre country estate. Cadmore Lodge offers the finest of cuisine, an indoor heated swimming pool and a private golf course.

Cadmore Lodge, St. Michaels, Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire WR15 8TQ E:info@cadmorelodge.co.uk T: 01584 810044 www.cadmorelodge.co.uk

The Vicarage Nursing Home The Common, Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury SY3 0EA E: vicaragenursinghome@tiscali.co.uk T: 01743 874030 www.vicaragenursing.co.uk 36

DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

GRAB YOUR COAT We all need an investment coat: you know the ones, the type of coat which can make an appearance every year and stay looking great through changing trends. An investment coat should be classic and neutral so you can match it with your on-trend outfit pieces every year. There are a variety of these coats on the high street; here are our top three:

The on-trend coat is the one you buy and will probably forget about the year after. This winter sees several trends, including metallic colours, sequins, leather and animal print. Don’t overspend on these coats, after all they will only be in your wardrobe for six months: Love it or hate it, animal print is back for winter 16/17. Not only does this coat showcase a beautiful leopard inspired print, it has the addition of the black faux-fur trim which adds a touch of class. From George at Asda, £30.

Keep the cost down with this absolute bargain form George at Asda. The contrasting panels add dimension to the simple fit. £35.

The sequin jacket, perfect to throw over your party dress, from River Island, £48.

The faux-sheepskin jacket is another great look of the season and looks fab over a pair of jeans and a cute tee. Our favourite high street pick comes from Matalan at £40.

We love this tan coat with over-the-top faux-fur trimmings. It will stand out in any crowd but is subtle enough to bring out every year. We think this coat looks a lot more expensive than its price tag. From Miss Selfridge, £89.

The last time we saw the army print on trend the Spice Girls were topping the charts. Lots of 90s trends are coming back into fashion; first the choker then the space buns and now the army print. Add it in the form of this jacket from Matalan, £35.

This Linea green belted trench coat will always be in style and complement any outfit. To keep it ontrend this season team it with some metallic boots and leather gloves. From House of Fraser, £199.

DECEMBER 2016

DECEMBER 2016 | COMMUNITY

Bridget wins top award For Shropshire Parent Educator Bridget Supple, supporting first-time parents is all part of the job and she’s happy to do it. Always ready with a hug and a cup of tea, she has been much more than just an antenatal teacher for many of the parents she teaches. Alongside her work as an NCT instructor and Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA) advisor, she also gives classes to parents at Birmingham Women’s Hospital and lectures at midwifery events across the UK. But when one of her students became dramatically ill shortly after giving birth, Bridget went above and beyond. Described as ‘one of life’s unsung heroes’ for her dedication and kindness, she’s now been named the winner of the Real World Parenting Awards. She will receive a £1,000 grant from the Primary Care Society for Gastroenterology to further her work, as well as a trophy. One appreciative mum said: “Bridget is the kind of person who looks after others and she’s made a difference to so many parents out there – we feel she’s absolutely deserving of recognition.” Bridget, who lives in Newport, said of her win: “It’s so important to support new mums and dads – it’s the little things you do that might not seem big to you but can mean the world to them. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I’m happy to help and delighted to have won.” Launched in July this year, the Real World Parenting Awards aim to pay attention to real world parenting issues, such as the 20% of mums who suffer from mental health issues in the first year of parenthood. The new scheme aims to recognise the people that go the extra mile to help new mums and dads.

Mum Amy hops into the record books Shrewsbury High Prep School unexpectedly found itself to be the perfect training ground for one of its parents to train for a record breaking attempt to be the fastest person to travel a mile – on a space hopper! Amy Turner, whose children Monty and Dolly attend the school, undertook the hop, partly as a fundraiser for Young Minds and partly as research for her novel in which the main protagonist aims to become the fastest woman in the world to bounce a mile on a space hopper. Amy, who recently moved to Shropshire from Whitstable in Kent, hopped at the Prep School two or three times a week after dropping her children at school in the morning, making for quite an unusual sight on the rugby pitch. The hop itself took place in Kent and Amy bounced into the record books completing one mile in 17 minutes 22.86 seconds – three minutes under her 20-minute target. She can officially claim the title once officials are happy with the submitted evidence. Amy said: “When I applied, there was no women’s record, so they set a challenging time to beat. I was really pleased with my time, but I could have done better as I did it in 16 minutes and 40 seconds in training. I don’t think I’d pumped my hopper enough – that’s not something I thought I’d ever be saying!” Amy’s novel ‘We Are All Made of Rubber’ is a contemporary young adult novel about sibling rivalry, space hopping and romance. When 17-year-old Clem’s 12-year ambition to break a world record is scuppered by the disappearance of her sister, she is forced to overcome insecurity and jealousy and to understand the complexities

n Amy Turner trained for her world record attempt at Shrewsbury High Prep School

wrestling beneath the polished facade of her family. With the arrival of Toby, an 18-year-old closet performance poet, it becomes a universally romantic tale of two young adults forging their own story, breaking world records and crossing boundaries to prove that Clem and her family can all bounce back from whatever life – or each other – might throw at them. Because the novel is pitched at 15-18 year-olds, Amy used the hop as an opportunity to raise money for Young Minds, a charity supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing of children and young adults. People can still donate money and if they would like to get involved they can visit www.justgiving. com/fundraising/WeAreAllMadeOfRubber?utm_ medium=email&utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_ campaign=20160914_70371

Celebrations at Moreton Hall

n Moreton Enterprises boasts an annual turnover of £50,000

A sell-out audience was treated to an evening of history, art and culture at Moreton Hall School in celebration of the eagerly anticipated new biography ‘Over the Hills and Far Away: The Life of Beatrix Potter’ by Matthew Dennison. Dennison, biographer and Head of Classics at Moreton Hall, is described in The Independent as ‘one of those rare marvels, a historical biographer whose work has reached the bestseller lists’. In this new biography, he explores Potter’s multi-faceted life and character, all with brilliant wit and humour. Celebrations continue with Moreton Hall’s student-run business, Moreton Enterprises, recently championed as the best school for entrepreneurship by The Week. The in-house, student-led business was established over 25 years ago and boasts an annual turnover of £50,000. Its aim is to challenge and inspire students by nurturing business acumen and entrepreneurship. Sports teams are also enjoying continued success in hockey and lacrosse. Teams enjoyed wins across the board, with both 1st and 2nd lacrosse squads being crowned North Schools Lacrosse Champions and success at the U18 North Counties Lacrosse Tournament defeating teams from Lancashire, Cheshire and Yorkshire. Shropshire is currently the holder of all six North County trophies. The teams played with tremendous spirit and determination to ensure convincing victories and a retained title. This is a remarkable achievement which encapsulates the depth and talent at Moreton Hall. As the Good Schools Guide remarks: ‘A cracking school – trouncing local and national rivals on all fronts’.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE | DECEMBER 2016

n Matt Daw of Best of British Skateboards; Mel Ling of Cook & Carve; Jon Painter of JP Fruits; Robin Nugent of Iron and Rose

Get the indie vibe this Christmas

ith Shrewsbury recently sealing its national reputation as one of the best UK destinations for independent shopping, the Market Hall is a vibrant part of the booming indie scene. Dubbed “a little bit of Camden in Shropshire” the large indoor market is home to over 60 independent businesses, ranging from ‘real food’ producers to gift boutiques, arts and crafts. At Christmas the market is a destination for shoppers looking for unique gifts and quality produce. Its butchers take orders for local goose, game and turkey. Its delicatessen is stuffed with pungent artisan cheeses from Shropshire, Britain and France. Vintner Iron and Rose is one of the market’s newest stalls, specialising in organic wines, coffee beans and loose leaf teas that are sourced directly from small producers around the world. The man behind the business is Robin Nugent who has worked in the wine industry for nearly 20 years. Christmas is hugely busy for national award-winning artisan chocolatier

Julia Viani, of Toot Sweets, who has conjured up aromatic flavours of the season such as chestnut caramels, pumpkin and cinnamon. Handmade gift ideas include the creations of designer jeweller Godfrey Gardner, British artist designed accessories and stationery at Thistle & Weeds, craft kits by woolcraft specialists Ewe & Ply and art prints, mugs and tea towels by artist Linda Edwards at Thoughts boutique. Artist Rosie Read has created hand-tied textile wreaths as festive decorations. Also new this year is Best of British Skateboards which is fast becoming a mecca for skateboarding enthusiasts. Owner Matt Daw even has his own range of clothing. The Market Hall is staging a series of special late-night events in the lead-up to Christmas. On Saturday 10 December the market will open until 10pm as part of fringe evening events for the annual Shrewsbury Winter Festival. Wednesday 14 December will be the market’s final late opening until 9pm with choirs and complimentary mince pies and mulled wine. www.markethallshrewsbury.co.uk

All you need for a great Christmas - from the Market Hall Shrewsbury EXTRA SHOPPING HOURS Open until 9pm - Wed Nov 16th & Dec 14th with live music, complimentary mulled wine and mince pies, gift stalls and restaurants open. Open until 10pm - Sat Dec 10th for Winter Festival celebrations Open Christmas Week 9am - 4pm Mon Dec 19th - Sat Dec 24th

www.markethallshrewsbury.co.uk Find us on Facebook Follow us on @markethallshrew Find us at: Claremont Street, Shrewsbury SY1 1QG Underneath the town’s clocktower

DECEMBER 2016 | LEISURE

n n Above left, Autumn Sycamores by Josie Crompton; above, Pink Foxglove by Jules McRobbie

Calling all artists

week celebrating the best art from the Shropshire Hills will give county artists the chance to showcase their work. Shropshire Hills Art Week 2017 will run from 3-11 June, but artists are being sought now to sign up. The event features nine days of open studios and art exhibitions throughout the Shropshire Hills AONB and surrounding towns. Artists can take part in joint shows or open their studios as part of this well respected event, which this year sold over ÂŁ30,000 of art. Organisers are particularly encouraging work inspired by landscape and wildlife, to showcase this stunning part of the country, but anything is welcome. To find out more call Jules McRobbie on 0773 638 1287, email jules@ shropshirehillsartweek.co.uk or visit www.ShropshireHillsArtWeek.co.uk

n Above, from left, Gordon Yapp, Kingfisher; Chris Williams, Buttercups; John Brookes, West Kennet Long Barrow No. 3

n Above, Mist

Rolling In by Ciara Lewis n Left, Drusilla Cole, Chandelier n Right, Shannon Donovan, violet doily box

DECEMBER 2016

BLISTS HILL VICTORIAN TOWN

Victorian CHRISTMAS WEEKENDS 3 & 4 and 10 & 11 December 10am - 4pm

IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK Buy tickets online or on arrival

Tel: 01691 610952 - Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 4JH Annual Passport Tickets not valid. Annual Passport Ticket holders get 25% discount off entry (t&câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apply)

Oswestry

PENELOPE TIMMIS CONTEMPORARY ART

Christmas Events

Oswestry Christmas Live

2nd December from 6pm town centre Christmas Market, ice rink, fireworks, fairground, grotto, music, reindeers

Christmas Parade Oswestry Market

3rd December, 11am. Town centre

STUDIO/GALLERY IS

OPEN BY

APPOINTMENT PENELOPE TIMMIS CONTEMPORARY ART

every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday AND NOW OPEN EVERY THURSDAY throughout December

Christmas Artisans Market

Telephone:

etc Studio/gallery open by appointment. 01691Paintings, cards, Splash backs PAINTINGS, CARDS, SPLASH BACKS ETC 07709342351, pennytimmis@yahoo.co.uk, www.penelopetimmis.co.uk 680222

07709 342 351

23rd December, 9am-2pm Bailey Head

pennytimmis@yahoo.co.uk

www.penelopetimmis.co.uk

@OswestryTC

DECEMBER 2016 | GET OUT

Get on track

Charity night

Jazz singer

to meet Santa

Severn Singers Xmas Concert

in Bridgnorth

48 n RAF Cosford Air Show. Cosford, Shifnal n 93 JUNE DECEMBER The Hound of the Baskervilles. Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley

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.co.uk

Events December Until 3 December

DIRTY DANCING Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensationally sexy dancing. Seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. From £28, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

Until 8 January

CINDERELLA Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Spectacular, fun-filled panto written by Paul Hendy and starring Brad Fitt, with comedy, singing, dancing and audience participation. Early booking recommended. From £11.50, various times, www.theatresevern.co.uk

1 December

CIVIC CAROL CONCERT The Place @ Oakengates Theatre You are invited to attend Telford and Wrekin Council’s annual Civic Carol Service in association with Telford Christians Together. The service includes prayers, readings, live music and many familiar carols. 7.30pm, free. www.theplacetelford.com

1-24 December

BREAKFAST OR TEA WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS Percy Thrower’s Garden Centre, Shrewsbury Each child will receive a special present from Santa; biscuit

2-3 December

decorating and festive activities available. Booking essential – contact the centre for availability. Child £9.99; adult from £3.99.

WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Sunnycroft, Telford Create a wreath from scratch to hang on your door with materials from the National Trust house’s garden. 11am-1pm, £30, booking essential on 08442 491895.

2 December

SHREWSBURY FARMERS’ MARKET The Square, Shrewsbury From 9am-4pm. 2 December

2-4 December

GORDON HENDRICKS

CHILDREN’S STORYTIME Wenlock Books Storytime for little ones (babies up to pre-schoolers). Every Friday, new families always welcome. No need to book. £2.50 per family to include drinks.

Theatre On The Steps, Bridgnorth The ultimate Elvis tribute show. 8pm Fri and Sat with an additional show on Sunday at 7pm due to popular demand. £22.50. 01746 766477.

2 December

LOST IN BLUE

MP SURGERY

Quatt Village Hall What is it like to be in a coma? To love someone in a coma? What would Van Gogh say if you hung out with him in his room at Arles? And what does a pigeon called Muhammad Ali eat for breakfast? A funny, uplifting, poignant and at times wonderfully bizarre one-woman show from Debs Newbold. An Arts Alive event. 7.30pm, £10/6, tickets: 01746 781759/781214.

3 December

54 Broad Street, Ludlow MP Philip Dunne has an advice surgery between 4.30-6pm. To make an appointment telephone the constituency office on 01584 872187.

2 December

CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury Shropshire Music Trust present one of the finest choirs in Britain, Ex Cathedra. A mix of traditional favourites along with more unusual and popular world and contemporary items, interspersed with readings. 7.30pm, tickets www.ticketsource. co.uk/smt, 0333 666 3366, or by phone, post and in person from Windband, 9 Greyfriars Road, Shrewsbury, 01743 367482.

3 December

ST MARY’S CHAMBER CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT St Mary Magdalene, Bridgnorth Festive concert in aid of St Mary’s Music Fund. 7pm, tickets £7.50 to include interval refreshments, 01746 716282.

3 December

THE JAR FAMILY Birchmeadow Centre, Broseley Back by popular demand after having

the audience dancing in the aisles during their last visit. 7.30pm, www. birchmeadow.org.uk/live-music/

3 December

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Meet the world’s most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, as he is called upon to solve the greatest mystery of all time – that of The Hound of the Baskervilles. A Rain or Shine Theatre Company presentation. 7pm, adult £10, child £6, 01746 781192.

3 December

MUCH WENLOCK CHRISTMAS FAYRE Much Wenlock town centre Over 100 eclectic stalls line the streets and Church Green. With brass bands, choirs, street theatre, donkey rides, carols by candlelight, and Santa’s grotto. 10am-5pm, www. muchwenlockchristmasfayre.org.uk

3 December

ANTIQUE & COLLECTORS FAIR St Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury Antique jewellery, clocks, china, pictures, Treen, glass, postcards and ephemera. 10am-4pm, 01743 359113.

3 December

STARS IN YOUR SKIES: DWARF PLANETS Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd A talk by Dr Alan Longstaff, followed by a spot of star gazing (weather permitting). 8-11pm, adults £10, booking essential on 01694 725000. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

GET OUT | DECEMBER 2016

n 3-4 DECEMBER Christmas food & craft fayre. Weston Park, near Shifnal

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

3 December

3-4 December

HEADWAY SHROPSHIRE CHRISTMAS FAIR

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury Stalls, entertainment, mince pies and raffle in aid of Headway Shropshire. 2-4pm.

St Leonard’s Church, Bridgnorth Come and see the church all ready for Christmas with lots of lovely stalls and music. 10am-4.30pm.

3 December

3-4, 10-11 December

MUSIC AT THE EDGE: RAYMOND FROGGATT

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS WEEKEND

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock A stalwart of the music industry, Froggie has spent 50 years singing and writing songs for the likes of Sir Cliff Richards, Isaac Hayes and Sir Elton John. 7.30pm, £14, www. edgeartscentre.com

Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge Soak up the seasonal atmosphere and revel in traditional celebrations and entertainment as the townsfolk busily make preparations for Christmas, 1800s style. Listen to tales of life more than 100 years ago as you visit the cosy cottages, hum along to seasonal music from brass bands and choirs and tour the town on a horsedrawn cart. Visit Father Christmas in his grotto and pet his reindeer. Make paperchains, write a letter to Father Christmas and leave a note on the Wishing Tree. Enjoy brass bands, carol singers, Punch & Judy shows and Shropshire Christmas Mummers Play. £17.95 for adults, £13.75 for 60 plus, £11.85 for children 5-18 years. Visit to Santa £3.50. www.ironbridge.org.uk

3-4 December

CHRISTMAS FOOD & CRAFT FAYRE Weston Park, near Shifnal Quirky gifts, decorative inspiration, talented artists and makers, quality food producers; everything you need beautifully brought together for the perfect Christmas. Over 80 stalls set indoors and outdoors, the miniature railway will be running and the house, stunningly decorated and sparkling for the festive period, will be open to explore. 10am-4pm, £1, house entry £2, railway £2. www.weston-park. com

3, 10, 17 December

CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAINS Severn Valley Railway Board the diesel train for a jolly journey from Kidderminster to The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley for a rousing evening of carol singing, mulled wine and a mince pie. Book early on 01562 757900 or www.svr.co.uk

3-4 December

CHARITY CHRISTMAS MARKET

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk

Alan Ward, Shrewsbury Charities, schools and music groups will take part in the first event of its kind at Alan Ward. Charity stalls will offer cards, wrapping paper, gifts and stocking fillers, while school choirs, bands and community groups will provide musical entertainment. 10am-4pm, free admission.

early on 01562 757900 or www.svr. co.uk

3-23 December

ATTINGHAM 1920s CHRISTMAS Attingham Park, nr Shrewsbury Find out about the lives and Christmas traditions of those who lived on the estate. 10.30am-4pm, usual admission applies. You can also meet Santa on weekends between 3-18, 19-23 10am-4pm, and 12-16 3.30pm-6pm. £8 per child. Booking essential. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

4 December

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ The Black Boy, Bridgnorth Keith Nichols on piano and Enrico Tomasso on trumpet. 12.30pm, free but donations welcome.

4 December

LOST IN BLUE The Wightman Theatre, Shrewsbury See details on 3 December. 3pm, £12/8, tickets: 01743 290704.

4 December

BIRMINGHAM LAND ROVER CAR RALLIES RAF Museum Cosford The RAF Museum Cosford is a popular venue for car clubs and can cater for rallies with up to 150 vehicles. www. rafmuseum.org.uk

4 December

BRIDGNORTH CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET

3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24 December

High Street, Bridgnorth The largest annual street market of the year with over 85 traders.

SANTA STEAM SPECIALS

6 December

Severn Valley Railway The SVR’s fleet of steam locos will be buffed and polished, ready to take families on return journeys from Kidderminster to meet Santa in his special grotto at Arley Station. Book

Cineworld, Telford Fun-filled red carpet night in aid of Severn Hospice with a screening of the Christmas classic Love Actually. 7.30pm,

LOVE ACTUALLY CHARITY SCREENING

GET OUT | DECEMBER 2016

3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24 DECEMBER Santa Steam Specials. Severn Valley Railway

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

standard ticket £10, VIP £15 to include a glass of Prosecco or hot drink, and mince pie. Book at www.severnhospice. org.uk/support-us/events

essential for all walks. Meet at 9.15am for a 9.30am start. Adult £3.50, child £2, 01746 781192.

8 December

6 December

7–31 December

SLEEPING BEAUTY

Big Little Things, Stockton, Shifnal A demonstration and guidance on how to design and make your own Christmas door wreath. All tuition, materials and light refreshment included in the price. Limited spaces, booking essential. hello@ biglittlethings.co.uk

TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS Jackfield Tile Museum, near Ironbridge Join a drop-in tile decorating workshop between 10am and 3.30pm and try the tube lining technique to produce your own ceramic masterpiece. Tiles cost from £5 each, museum entrance fee applies. www. ironbridge.org.uk

The Place @ Oakengates Theatre Shone Productions are delighted to be producing this year’s pantomime and promise the biggest panto Oakengates Theatre has seen featuring a quality cast, fantastic scenery and costumes, an amazing live band and magical special effects. From £10. www.theplacetelford.com

6 December

8 December

ARCHAEOLOGY SEMINAR- JIM CLARKE ‘ARCHAEOLOGIST: HERO OR VILLAN?’

CHRISTMAS COOKERY COURSE

8 December

SEVERN READING GROUP Bridgnorth Library Reading group usually meets on the second Thursday of every month and is currently accepting new members. 7-8pm, talk to library staff if you are interested in receiving the latest book and attending a taster session.

6 December

Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms Join Milly in the pop-up kitchen. She will show you there is more to vegetarian cooking than nut loaf and bean feasts. Everything you make you take home along with recipes, tips and ideas for more you can do in your own kitchen. 01588 676060.

POETRY SESSION

8 December

Bridgnorth Library Take a favourite poem to read aloud, or just go along to listen. Free drop-in session. 10-11am.

THE NUTCRACKER (ROH LIVE)

9 December

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury; Majestic Cinema, Bridgnorth; The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Live from the Royal Opera House. The Royal Ballet’s glorious production of The Nutcracker, 7.15pm. See venues’ websites for prices and more details.

Bridgnorth Library Meet others with similar interests and gain inspiration through the library’s stock of craft books and free access to the internet. All welcome, no pre-booking required. 10am-12 noon.

Museum of The Gorge, Ironbridge Free seminar by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust and the Ironbridge Archaeology Volunteer Group for members of the public with an interest in archaeology. 6pm, free.

7 December

BOOKSTART RHYME TIME Highley Library These free sessions for children aged 0 to 5 years, their parents and carers, are a great way to make new friends and enjoy stories, nursery rhymes and simple action songs. 10.30-11am.

8 December

TALK: LOOKING FOR ORCHIDS IN CHINA

7 December

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk

MAKE A CHRISTMAS DOOR WREATH WORKSHOP

GUIDED WALK: EARDINGTON, OLDBURY AND DANIEL’S MILL

Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Orchid expert Phil Seaton returns to the park to tell of his travels to China. 7.30-9pm, adults £2, child £2, 01746 781192.

Six-mile walk starting at Eardington Local Nature Reserve. Booking

8 December

BOOKSTART RHYME TIME Broseley Library These free sessions for children aged 0 to 5 years, their parents and carers, are a great way to make new friends and enjoy stories, nursery rhymes and simple action songs. 10.30-11am.

KNIT, CRAFT AND NATTER

9 December

BOOKSTART RHYME TIME Shifnal Library These free sessions for children aged 0 to 5 years, their parents and carers, are a great way to make new friends and enjoy stories, nursery rhymes and simple action songs. 10.30-11.00am.

DECEMBER 2016 | GET OUT

9 December

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Begin with a ranger-led walk around the park (please wear boots or wellies), gathering together natural items from which to make your wreath. Price includes hot drink and biscuits. Booking essential, limited spaces. £6, 01746 781192.

9 December

CHRISTMAS FAIR Bridgnorth Endowed School There will be many different Christmas stalls, refreshments and music. £1 entry, including a raffle ticket. 6pm.

9 December

A SELECTION OF PRE-1918 CHAPLIN SHORTS Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Unsilent Movies present a selection of pre-1918 Chaplin Shorts with live musical accompaniment. 8pm, £12, www.theatresevern.co.uk

9-13, 16-20 December

10 December

SURF’S UP Theatre on The Steps, Bridgnorth Surf’s Up are a dynamic and fun-packed 10-piece Beach Boys tribute band. With all the beautiful harmonies faithfully recreated, the band add their own powerful punch and passion to create a huge, spectacular sound. 8pm, £15, www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

10 December

GONE TO EARTH

10 December

SHREWSBURY CRUELTY FREE CHRISTMAS FAIR

CHRISTMAS SKITTLES

ROCKING IT FOR SIMON

10-20 December

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury Over 50 decorated and illuminated trees will fill the church for the fifth tree festival. Daily programme includes school choirs, organ recitals, Morris dancers and handbell ringers. The trees will remain in the church to view until 5 January. Free admission. www.stchadschurchshrewsbury.com

10-24 December

Quatt Village Hall, Quatt A skittles night with a Christmas party atmosphere! Bring your own drinks, light buffet included. Starts at 7.30pm. £6 adults, £4 children (14 and under). Call Jackie on 01746 781759.

SANTA’S GROTTO Apley Farm Shop, Norton Give your little one the magical experience of meeting Santa Claus. 12 noon-3pm, prices vary, see www. apleyfarmshop.co.uk

10-11 December

SHREWSBURY WINTER FESTIVAL

10 December – 22 January

The Quarry, Shrewsbury The perfect start to the festive season with a great mix of food and drink, crafts and seasonal cheer.

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Don’t miss your chance to join this magic carpet ride! With a lamp-full of laughs as you follow Aladdin, his

ALADDIN

brother Wishee Washee and of course Widow Twankey on a spectacular adventure. www.grandtheatre.co.uk

11 December

A CHRISTMAS CONCERT St Mary’s Church, Alveley Performed by the Alveley Village Band and Alveley Singers. A fun-filled and festive finale to the 2016 concert series. 7.30pm. £7.50 to include mulled wine and mince pies. Tickets available from the church, Alveley post office or Andrew Crabtree 01746 780478.

11 December

BOWJANGLES XMASH CAROL Farlow & Oreton Village Hall See details on 10 December. £10/5, tickets: 01746 718642.

12 December

THE HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS AND ALL THAT Castle Hall, Bridgnorth A talk by Helen Cromarty as part of the winter lecture series by Bridgnorth & District Historical Society. Followed by a glass of Christmas cheer and nibbles. Visitors welcome, £3. 7.30pm.

12 December

GUIDED WALK: EARDINGTON, OLDBURY AND DANIEL’S MILL Six-mile walk starting at Eardington Local Nature Reserve. Booking essential. Meet at 9.15am for a 9.30am start. Please wear walking boots and bring a packed lunch and drink. Adult £3.50, child £2. 01746 781192.

14 December

BLAKE Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton Brit award winners Blake bring their Christmas Classics show to Shropshire for a spectacular night of festive entertainment. 7.30pm, £22, www. festivaldraytoncentre.com

n 17 DECEMBER Severn Singers Christmas Concert. Bridgnorth Endowed School

Birchmeadow Centre, Broseley Fundraising gig for Simon Gibbons, featuring local rock/pop band the Yarchesters. 8pm, tickets £7 on 07890 057832.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham The Chirk Castle courtyard will be transformed into a medieval feast for the sense, with the smells, sounds, sights and tastes of traditional medieval festivities. Crafts, Medieval food and drink, mummers plays, music, a medieval Christmas trail, and the castle dressed through in traditional medieval style. Normal admission applies. NT members free. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle

Shrewsbury Abbey The choir will be joined by a full orchestra and singers from other choirs to perform Mendelssohn’s Elijah. 7.30pm, £12, students and under 18s free, on the door or from www.shrewsburycantatachoir.org.uk

10 December

MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS WEEKENDS

SHREWSBURY CANTATA CHOIR: ELIJAH

Sunnycroft, Telford With the sound of choirs drifting through the house, enjoy the National Trust house decorated for Christmas. 10.30am-4pm, usual admission applies. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/midlands

The Wightman, Shrewsbury Shropshire Veggies and Vegans hold their fourth annual Cruelty Free Christmas Fair from 11am-3pm. Shop for gifts, good and books, enjoy a festive tune and refreshments. Early attendees will get a goody bag of samples, recipes and vouchers. Free admission.

10-11, 17-18 December

10 December

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Following sell-out screenings at both Theatre Severn and Old Market Hall earlier in the year, another chance to see this brooding romantic drama, filmed on location in Shropshire in 1950 and featuring many extras drawn from the local area. 2.30pm, £8/£6.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

SUNNYCROFT CHRISTMAS

Browse more than 150 food, drink and craft exhibitors, enjoy mulled wine, hot chocolate and toasting marshmallows, and join in a big singalong with local choirs at 3pm. Workshops for children, shows and a circus big top, plus a nativity scene with real animals. £12 families, £6 adults, £1 children. 10am-6pm (5pm Sunday). Tickets cheaper in advance, www.shrewsburychristmas.co.uk

make this family Christmas show one not to be missed! An Arts Alive event. 7.30pm, £12/6, tickets: 01746 862104.

10 December

MUCH WENLOCK FOOD MARKET Corn Exchange, The Buttermarket and The Square Selling a range of locally produced and delicious products from 10am4pm. Contact Much Wenlock Town Council on 01952 727509.

10 December

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

10 December

BOWJANGLES XMASH CAROL Chelmarsh Parish Hall Bowjangles are a string quartet who can really play. They dance whilst they play. They sing whilst they play. They leap, tumble, juggle and joke whilst they play. And now they are a string quartet with bells on….Bowjangles XmasH Carol begins loosely based on the favourite Dickens’ book ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Comedy, huge amounts of energy and surprises galore

GET OUT | DECEMBER 2016

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

15 December

to visit. Artisan gifts, food and drink. Handmade jewellery, handbags, etched slate, upcycled furniture, a lovely variety of bespoke homeware and much more. 10am-4pm.

NO MAN’S LAND (15) Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury National Theatre Live. Following their hit run on Broadway, Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart return to the West End stage in Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land, broadcast live to cinemas from Wyndham’s Theatre, London. 7pm, £14.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

18 December

CAROLS AND SUNDAY LUNCH Weston Park, Shifnal Visit St Andrew’s Parish Church for a carol service with the Bridgnorth Choral Singers followed by Sunday lunch in the dining room. Following lunch you can enjoy a walk through the formal gardens and parkland. £60 per person, pre booking is required. www.weston-park.com

15 December

WILLIAM BROOKES SCHOOL SIXTH FORM PANTO The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Come and enjoy the festive fun with all the adventure, gags and great characters, plus rousing song and dance you expect from the ‘traditional’ Christmas Panto. 7.30pm. £6/£4 www.edgeartscentre.com

16 December

Birmingham Hippodrome Birmingham’s favourite pantomime will be the cat’s whiskers! www. birminghamhippodrome.com

St Nicholas Church, Oldbury, Bridgnorth Carol service with Bishop Alistair Magowen. 7pm.

19 December – 29 January

DICK WHITTINGTON

19 December

CHRISTMAS FILMS Bridgnorth Town Hll The organisers of Bridgnorth Music and Arts festival will screen Gremlins and The Grinch under the town hall. www.bridgnorthfestival.org.uk

16 – 24 December

SANTA’S NEW SLEIGH Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Christmas is fast approaching and Santa’s sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be able to create a new sleigh in time or will Christmas be cancelled? Can you help them save the day? £11, family £40, www. theatresevern.co.uk

20-23 December

SANTA HERALD SERVICES Severn Valley Railway Santa will welcome families on board the SVR, visiting everyone on the train, handing out presents and posing for festive ‘selfies’ during the journey to Highley. Book early on 01562 757900 or www.svr. co.uk

17 December

SEVERN SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Bridgnorth Endowed School old hall The annual Severn Singers concert, in aid of Save the Children, entitled ‘A Country Christmas’. 7.30pm, tickets £7.50 from That’s Nice in Listley Street.

AFTERNOON SEASONAL CONCERT AND TEA St Eata Church, Atcham Concert by Catherine Ennis and the Chiltern Consort at 3pm, followed by afternoon tea at The Malthouse. Tickets £15 or £55 for four, in aid of church funds, from 01952 257682/740747.

31 December

JOG OFF YOUR JUMPER Attingham Park, near Shrewsbury Family fun run of one mile, giving you the last chance to wear your festive woollies! 11am, registration from 10am, adult £3, child £2, family £10 including race medal. www. nationaltrust. org.uk/ midlands

n 18 DEC Bridgnorth Jazz. The Black Boy, Bridgnorth

17 December

A WINTER’S LIGHT Chetton Village Hall Coope, Simpson & Fraser, Freya present a Christmas show featuring the a cappella four part harmonies of the unusual Sheffield and Derbyshire traditions and beyond. Plus a reflection of some of the less reverent aspects of the festive season from Christmas lights to food and presents. When not singing unaccompanied they play piano, soprano sax, fiddle and accordion. An Arts Alive event. 7.30pm, £10/6, tickets: 01746 768822/789257.

17-18 December

BESPOKE AND BEAUTIFUL – ARTISAN EVENT

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk

WESTON PARK CHRISTMAS OPENING

29 December

CAROL SERVICE

Priory Hall, Much Wenlock MP Philip Dunne has an advice surgery between 4.30-6pm. To make an appointment telephone the constituency office on 01584 872187.

26-31 December

19 December

Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Tribute band The Stones return to Bridgnorth with a revised show, with all the energy and charisma of The Rolling Stones themselves. 8pm, www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

MP SURGERY

Quatt Village Hall, Quatt Local florist Annette will demonstrate techniques and inspire Christmas floral decorations that will last during the Christmas period. Foliage and oasis will be provided but please bring along any flowers, containers and decorations that you would like to use. This workshop is popular, so please book. Starts at 7pm, £10, to book please call Jackie on 01746 781759.

The Black Boy, Bridgnorth Tina May on vocals and Paul Sawtell on piano. 12.30pm, free admission but donations welcome.

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ

THE ROLLING STONES – THE STORY SO FAR

CHRISTMAS FLOWER ARRANGING WORKSHOP

Weston Park, Shifnal Walk off those Christmas indulgences and escape from the washing up and wrapping paper with a walk around the park. 10am–4pm (last admission 3pm) www.weston-park.com

18 December

15-16 December

21 December

St Mary’s Church, Dogpole, Shrewsbury An Artisan Event featuring live music. If you are looking for something a little different, unique and produced here in Shropshire, this is the place

DECEMBER 2016

Over 80 stalls with

Special Guest

Seasonal Produce Gift ideas for all the family

STEVE BULL

will be signing copies of his new book

plus Great Food / Drink & Seasonal Entertainment Local shops, pubs and restaurants will also be open

Annu

CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET Sunday 4th December

Bridgnorth High Street ~10am-4pm GARAGE DOOR RESTORE

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West Midlands Ltd

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CALL N BILKO O

Tel: 01746 335001 Mobile: 07772 598582

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm Saturday 8am-12noon

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

info@gdrwestmidlands.co.uk www.gdrwestmidlands.co.uk We Are Your Local Garage Door Company! 49

DECEMBER 2016

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DECEMBER 2016 | FOOD + DRINK

Food& Drink

ou can’t beat the smells and flavours of Christmas. Creating delicious dishes filled with seasonal spices brings that extra special dimension to your festive dining table. Whether you’re adding cloves, nutmeg or smoky bacon to your menu, your kitchen will entice guests with scents of the season.

STOUT GLAZED CHRISTMAS HAM

minutes then transfer to the oven. Cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is completely soft. Season to taste then serve. This recipe freezes very well; freeze the cabbage in the casserole then reheat on the hob straight from the freezer.

(recipe from Pyrex www.pyrexuk.com) Perfect for festive visitors, a simple yet delicious Christmas ham keeps guests well fed over the Christmas period. Serves: 10 Cooking time: 45-55 minutes

CHESTNUT AND APPLE STUFFING

Ingredients: 1 4kg unsmoked boneless gammon joint 2 tbsp English mustard 2 tbsp demerara sugar 25 whole cloves 1 x 330ml can of stout Method: Place the gammon into a large pan, cover with cold water and bring to the boil. Drain, return the gammon to the pan and refill with cold water. Bring to the boil, skim and simmer for 2½ hours. Remove from the heat and allow to cool in the stock until cold. Preheat the oven to 200c/gas mark 6. Remove the gammon from the pan and reserve the stock. Remove the string and peel off the rind using a small sharp knife. Score a diamond pattern. Spread the mustard over the fat. Sprinkle over the sugar and press it into the mustard. Stud each diamond with a clove. Transfer the gammon to a roasting tin, add the stout and a ladleful of stock. Gently baste with a little of the liquid and cook in the oven for 45-55 minutes until deep golden, basting twice. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before carving.

BRAISED RED CABBAGE WITH BACON AND CHESTNUTS (recipe from Pyrex www.pyrexuk.com) The ultimate festive or wintery side dish; rich, sweet cabbage studded with smoky bacon and chestnuts. This dish can be made in advance and reheated straight from the fridge or freezer. Serves: 4-6 as a side dish

(recipe from Pyrex www.pyrexuk.com) The perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, chicken or pork. Any leftover stuffing can be stored in the same dish and is delicious cold in a roast chicken sandwich. Serves: 4 as a side dish

Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 50g unsalted butter 2 large onions, peeled and finely chopped 200g smoked bacon lardons 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 bramley apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped 1 large red cabbage, finely shredded 200g cooked chestnuts, roughly broken up 1 tsp ground mixed spice 2 tbsp soft brown sugar 2 tbsp sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar sea salt and black pepper Method: Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/gas mark 2. Heat the oil and butter in a 3 litre casserole pot, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Add the bacon and cook for 5 minutes until golden. Add the garlic, fry for 2 minutes, then add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Cover the casserole with a lid, cook for 5

Ingredients: Dash of olive oil 25g unsalted butter 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme Pinch nutmeg 50g dry white breadcrumbs 2 tbsp milk 1 dessert apple (such as Cox’s or Pink Lady), peeled, cored and finely chopped 400g cooked and peeled chestnuts, finely chopped 250g sausage meat sea salt and black pepper Method: Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas mark 6. Heat a little olive oil and the butter in a frying pan, add the onion, thyme and nutmeg and cook gently for 5 minutes until the onions are softened but not browned. Tip the cooked onions into a large bowl and add the breadcrumbs. Pour over the milk and leave to stand for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soak up the milk. Mix in the remaining ingredients, season with salt and pepper then press into the bottom of a square Pyrex dish. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top.

FOOD + DRINK| DECEMBER 2016

Sweet solutions

Christmas pudding doesn’t have to be a Christmas Pudding! When it comes to the main course, the Christmas dinner is a fairly predictable affair, so why not whip up something a bit more imaginative for dessert? These sweet treats are tasty, fruity and bring a touch of Christmassy glamour to the table when you’ve all finished eating your sprouts.

BLACKBERRY AND BLUEBERRY CHRISTMAS CAKE (from www.seasonalberries.co.uk) If you are not a fan of heavy dried fruit cakes then try this light almondy sponge speckled with blackberries and blueberries and drizzled with glace icing. Serves: 8 Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking time: 40-50 minutes To decorate: 5 minutes Ingredients 175g (6oz) mixed blackberries and blueberries, if the blackberries are very large, cut them in half 175g (6oz) self-raising flour ½ tsp baking powder 175g (6oz) butter, at room temperature 175g (6oz) caster sugar 3 medium eggs, beaten 75g (3oz) ground almonds Few drops almond essence, optional To decorate 175g (6oz) icing sugar tsp cold water 3 tbsp toasted flaked almonds Few extra blackberries and blueberries or a few halved strawberries Method Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/gas mark 4. Brush inside a 23cm (9 inch) diameter or 1.5 litre (3 pint) fluted ring mould with a little oil. Add the blackberries and blueberries to a small bowl with 2 tablespoons of the flour and gently stir together until the berries are coated. Add baking powder to the remaining flour. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large bowl with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in alternate spoonfuls of beaten egg and remaining flour, beating well after each addition and continuing until both have all been added.

Stir in the ground almonds and almond essence if using, then fold in the flour coated berries. Spoon the mixture into the cake tin and level the top. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until well risen, the top is golden and a skewer comes out cleanly when inserted into the cake. Leave to cool for 30 minutes then loosen the edges of the mould, turn out on to a wire rack and remove the mould. Leave to cool completely. Sift the icing sugar into a bowl, gradually mix in just enough water to mix to a smooth icing that will slowly fall from a spoon. Transfer the cake to a serving plate, drizzle the icing over in zig zag lines, decorate with a few extra berries and sprinkle with the flaked almonds. Leave to stand for 15 minutes or so for the icing to set, then cut into thick slices and serve. Tip: As the cake has lots of fresh fruit in the mixture it is best eaten within two days.

CHOCOLATE ROULADE WITH BOOZY BLACKBERRIES (from www.seasonalberries.co.uk) Wow friends and family with this impressive looking chocolate dessert – made with sloe gin and blackberries. Serves 8 Prep: 45 minutes Cook: 15 minutes Cooling: 3-4 hours Ingredients 200g (7oz) dark chocolate, broken into pieces 5 large eggs, separated 175g (6oz) caster sugar, plus a little extra 50g (2oz) ground hazelnuts 2 tbsp hot water 225g (8oz) blackberries 3 tbsp sloe gin, cherry brandy or kirsch 400ml (14 fl oz) double cream 2 tablespoons icing sugar

Chocolate holly leaves (see directions below) Extra blackberries to decorate Method Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/gas mark 4. Cut a rectangle of non-stick baking paper a little larger than a 34 x 23 cm (131/2 x 91/2 inch) Swiss roll tin or roasting tin with the same base measurement. Snip diagonally into the corners of the paper then press into the tin so that the base is lined and the paper stands a little above the sides of the tin. Melt the chocolate in a bowl set over a saucepan of very gently simmering water. Using an electric whisk, whisk the egg whites until peaking. Using the still dirty whisk, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together in a second bowl for 4-5 minutes until thick and pale and the mixture will leave a trail. Fold the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture, then the hazelnuts and water. Fold a little of the egg white into the mixture to loosen it then gently fold in the rest. Spoon into the tin and lightly ease into an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes until well risen and the top is slightly crusty. Leave to cool covered with a clean teacloth. Add the blackberries and liqueur to a bowl, cover and leave roulade and berries to stand for 3-4 hours, or longer if that suits you better. About 2-3 hours before serving, whip the cream until it forms soft swirls then fold in the icing sugar and the liqueur from the soaked blackberries. Wet a clean teacloth under a hot tap, wring out and put on the work surface so that the shorter edges face you. Top this with a clean sheet of non-stick baking paper and sprinkle with a little extra sugar. Turn the roulade out on to the sugared paper and remove the lining paper. Spread the cream over the roulade, sprinkle with the soaked blackberries then roll up the roulade starting from the short edge nearest you and using the paper and damp teacloth to help. The roulade will crack, but don’t worry, just continue rolling and pressing into a good shape

DECEMBER 2016 | FOOD + DRINK

until you reach the other end. Wrap the paper and cloth around the roulade for a few minutes to set the shape. (If you would like to serve this on Christmas Day, wrap the roulade in paper and foil and keep in the fridge overnight) Remove the paper and cloth and transfer the roulade to a serving plate. Decorate with chocolate holly leaves (see tip below) and extra blackberries. Chocolate holly leaves Snip about 20 holly leaves from a small branch, leaving just a little of the stem on. Wash and dry the leaves then brush the shiny top of each leaf with a little melted chocolate leaving a little of the leaf and stem uncovered. Put leaves on a baking sheet lined with nonstick baking paper, chocolate side uppermost and chill in the fridge until the chocolate has set. Cover with a second thin layer of melted chocolate (you’ll only need about 75g (3oz) of chocolate in all) and chill again. When ready to use, hold the stem end of the leaf and very gently begin to peel and curl the leaf away from the chocolate. Arrange on the top of the roulade.

HOMEMADE MINCE PIES (by Fiona Burrell, Principle at the Edinburgh New Town Cookery School) Ingredients For the pastry: 225g/8oz plain flour 140g/5oz butter, cut into cubes Pinch of salt For the mincemeat: 1 apple 85g/3oz sultanas 85g/3oz raisins 45g/1½ oz currants 85g/3oz dried cranberries 45g/1½ oz flaked almonds

Grated zest of 1 lemon Grated zest ½ orange 1½ tsp mixed spice 2 tbsp whisky or brandy 55g/2oz melted butter 1 ripe banana To serve: Icing sugar

Put into a bowl and add the sultanas, raisins, cranberries, almonds, lemon zest, orange zest, mixed spice, whisky and melted butter. Mash the banana and add to the mincemeat. Roll out two thirds of the pastry and cut into medium sized circles using a pastry cutter. Line a 12 hole patty tin with the pastry. Place a spoonful

Method Make the pastry by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the butter and salt and rub in until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add approximately 5 tablespoons of ice cold water. Bring together to a ball of dough adding a little more water if necessary. Flatten into a circle and wrap in cling film. Chill for 15-20 minutes. Wash and grate the apple, including the skin.

of mincemeat into each pastry case. Roll out the rest of the pastry and cut into stars. Top each open pie with a star lid. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. Preheat the oven to 190˚C/Gas Mark 5. Bake in the centre of the preheated oven for 15-20. Cool slightly and remove carefully from the tin. Dust with icing sugar just before serving.

Christmas spirit

Tis the season to be merry, and what better way than with a Christmas cocktail, punch or mulled wine?

MULLED WINE

THE BIG SMOKE WINTER COCKTAIL

by Jenny Gillison of Leiths School of Food and Wine

(from www.friendsofglass.co.uk)

Ingredients 4 x 75cl bottles of full-bodied red wine 570ml (1 pint) orange juice 290ml (½ pint) water 1 orange studded with 12 cloves 150ml (¼ pint) orange liqueur 2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half 225g/8oz granulated sugar

Get in the festive spirit by making this fantastic beer-based cocktail by Friends of Glass ambassador Jane Peyton, the UK’s first Beer Sommelier of the Year (2014-2015).

Method Put all the ingredients into a large saucepan and dissolve the sugar over a low heat. Bring up to simmering point and add more sugar to taste if necessary. Keep warm but do not boil as the alcohol will be evaporated.

Ingredients 1 x 500 ml bottle of London Velvet (a blend of porter beer and cider – available from Morrisons). Or use 200ml of porter and 300ml of medium dry cider Paprika Cinnamon stick Method Gently warm beer, cider and sprinkle of paprika on the hob. Pour into tulip or snifter glass Garnish with a cinnamon stick stirrer

DECEMBER 2016

A wide range of fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, fresh meats, pickles, sauces, gift hampers, gifts and so much more The farm shop and deli have an amazing backdrop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; surrounded by rolling countryside with the bonus of trout fishing pools as part of the view Plus a great coffee shop and cafĂŠ

Loynton Fisheries Norbury ST20 0QA Tel: 01785 284737 www.heartwoodfarmshop.co.uk

Join us on Facebook for special events and more details

Heartwoodfarmshop

DECEMBER 2016 | ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The shop with

great taste

hat started off as an idea for a town centre fruit and vegetable shop has grown to include much more than Brussels sprouts. HeartWood Farm Shop & Deli, in Norbury, near Newport, opened recently just in time for the

festive season. HeartWood, which is set in beautiful countryside at Loynton Lakes on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border, is already beginning to attract shoppers eager to buy their locally sourced meat, vegetables, cheeses and Christmas foodie gifts. Owner Darren Wood, who also runs Newport’s award-winning New Inn pub which is owned by Joule’s Brewery, explained why he chose Loynton Lakes as his venue. “Originally I was looking to start a traditional fruit and vegetable shop and wanted a premises in Newport town centre but nothing suitable became available,” he says. He spread his net further afield until he came across the Loynton Lakes premises: “Loynton is a stunning alternative,” he adds. The Loynton resort offers rolling countryside views and is also home to The Tickling Trout café, which is a great food establishment. Being out of town also has the advantage of plenty of parking. “I realised that I needed to offer more than fresh fruit and veg to bring in the customers,” he says. After much research and visits to food shows, the shop offers some of the finest produce from Shropshire and Staffordshire, much of which is sourced from within a few miles of the shop. The store is stocked with an array of fresh fruit and vegetables, tantalising sauces, delicious local cheese, pickles, English wines,

savouries, locally brewed bottled beers and cider, cooked meats, charcuterie, homemade pies, sausage rolls, free range eggs and much more. Darren’s experience at the New Inn meant that he was already in contact with some of the area’s finest food producers. Favourites such as meat and sausages from Wenlock Edge Farm and cheese from Moyden’s were already on his pub menu, and beers from Market Drayton-based Joule’s were an essential. “We have used Wenlock Edge Farm sausages for more than 12 months at The New Inn. They make ‘proper sausages’, perfect with mash or in toad in the hole, and have been named as one of Rick Stein’s Food Heroes,” says Darren. Other well-known Shropshire producers at HeartWood Farm & Deli include Cooper’s sausage rolls, Bennet & Dunn oils, gorgeous Merangz from Flower & White and Hurst View ciders to name just a few. With two businesses to run, Darren is delighted to have two dedicated managers who he can rely on to run the shop. “The day-to-day running will be in the capable hands of Simone Robinson and Rachel Whittaker,” he says. Looking ahead to the New Year, Darren is planning Meet the Producer events and promotions but for now, he’s concentrating on Christmas and settling the business in. “We can supply all the meat, vegetables, cheese and treats that you’d need for the festive season, with the majority being sourced from fabulous local producers. “We also have shelves packed with foodie gifts and delicious hamper fillers. We can be a one-stop shop for Christmas, right down to the tree.” For more information go to www.heartwoodfarmshop.co.uk or telephone 01785 284737.

The Swan is the perfect place to enjoy the festivities over Christmas. With our roaring fires, cosy corners, warm atmosphere and delicious home cooked food, what better place to celebrate this magical time of the year

Bookings being taken for Christmas lunches, meals & parties Limited spaces remaining for • Christmas Day, • Boxing Day and • New Year’s Eve so book direct with us now to avoid disappointment

Christmas Party Night Friday 16th December

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£29.95

including champagne reception, 5 course meal, and disco and entertainment until 1am!

All of our menus are available on our website or come in a pick up a copy today.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Swan at Forton this Christmas! The Swan at Forton | Eccleshall Road Forton | TF10 8BY Telephone: 01952 812169 e: enq@swanforton.co.uk

www.swanforton.co.uk

DECEMBER 2016 | ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

National award for Bridgnorth chef

ridgnorth chef Amjad Ali has kept up his incredibly high standards by retaining his title of Best Chef at the Curry Life Awards in London. Amjad, who is head chef and owner of the Eurasia Tandoori in West Castle Street, Bridgnorth, beat off stiff competition to be given the national award by judges at the gala event, which was attended by more than 600 people. He was also the winner in 2015. Amjad said: “A good chef needs experience, patience, creativity and a lot of passion to succeed and I’m delighted to be recognised by my peers. “I’ve been in the business for more than 23 years and still love what l do. It’s a team effort and I couldn’t have done it without my colleagues and, of course, our customers.” His career as a chef began in 1992 and saw him work in restaurants in London, Brighton and Cambridge before moving back to Birmingham in 1994. He had worked his way up through the restaurant ranks, beginning as a kitchen assistant. He started Eurasia in 2001 with partners Shamim Haque and Shahid Ahad, who look after the front of house while Amjad works his magic in the kitchen. Most of his ideas come from combining ingredients in innovative ways, and his menu is the result of years of experimentation. He has recently added new dishes to the menu after attending a curry festival Bangalore. The annual Curry Life Awards celebrate the contribution of the multibillion pound curry industry, which includes more than 12,000 restaurants in the UK.

n (L-r) Rt Hon Priti Patel MP, Secretary of State for International Development, winning chef Amjad Ali from Eurasia Tandoori, Mr Illy Jaffar from Chivas and journalist broadcaster Louise Minchin

His career as a chef began in 1992 and saw him work in restaurants in London, Brighton and Cambridge Guest of honour at the awards ceremony was MP Priti Patel, Secretary of State for International Development. She said: “Curry Life Magazine’s annual awards ceremony is a great opportunity to celebrate the enormous talent that is on display around the country and the success of the Great British Curry! My congratulations to all the deserving winners.” Guests were treated to some spectacular entertainment in a glittering awards ceremony, hosted by Celebrity Masterchef finalist, journalist and broadcaster Louise Minchin.

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TRAVEL | DECEMBER 2016

Fit for a king

Alison Ashmore here are some hotel rooms that are ‘wow’ rooms. This was a wow room. With a name like the King Richard III Suite, you would expect to be royally impressed. I’ve stayed in hotel rooms smaller than the bathroom alone. Running the entire depth of the building, with views across stunning countryside that epitomise the rural heart of England, this was a suite that made you feel you were somewhere special. We’d arrived at the Tewkesbury Park, in Gloucestershire, early so we would have time to sample the leisure facilities. The hotel is set in 163 acres of parkland, most of which seems to be an attractive 18-hole par 73 golf course, and the indoor pool, sauna and steam room, plus outdoor hot tub, feel very much part of the golfing side of the set-up. We were here because the new Tewkesbury Park, which overlooks the site of the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, has recently completed the second phase of its extensive, £4m two-year renovation. It has seen the creation of nine luxury suites (of which ours was one), two new spa rooms, meeting rooms, an orangery and a cocktail lounge. There’s more than a nod to the area’s history, with suites named for the key figures in the Wars of the Roses. Décor is regal yet contemporary, and aside from the indulgent suites, all 85 guestrooms have plush new interiors. The dining room is next on the makeover agenda. The refurb has extended to the attractive lobby and reception, plus the

n From top left, Tewkesbury Park; Margret of Anjou suite; Lord Hastings suite; below, the lobby

gym. Sporty types will also find squash and tennis courts, an academy golf course and putting green. Our top floor suite came with a lounge area for four overlooking the parkland golf course with its mature trees, across to Gloucester and as far as the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills; the perfect place to watch the sun set on a stunning late autumn day. The Hypnos bed was a super king size, while there was a separate dressing room corridor leading to the bathroom. Here, a freestanding slipper bath allowed you to relax in front of the smart TV-come-mirror-come-radio; or you and your partner could enjoy the very spacious double rainfall power showers. I was tempted away from the suite for an excellent massage in the new treatment rooms. On offer here are facials; massages; tea, grape leaf or seaweed wraps; body scrubs, manicures and pedicures. Dinner was equally agreeable. From the table d’hote menu (£26) I opted for roasted pumpkin and chargrilled Halloumi salad; slow cooked blade of beef with red wine jus; and dark chocolate tart with passion fruit sorbet. Each was perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. Tewkesbury itself, with its superb early 12th century abbey, is just a five-minute drive or comfortable walk away; the Cotswolds are seven miles, Cheltenham nine miles, the Malverns 10 and Gloucester Quays is also easily reached, should you fancy some outlet shopping. Tewkesbury Park has a number of packages available over the festive period, including a three-night Christmas House Experience starting from £744 for a Touch of Class room up to £1,284 for an Opulent Suite (based on two sharing); a Twix’mas Boutique Breakaway Experience from £174 including dbb, cream tea and one massage per couple; or New Year starting from £454 up to £728 for two or three nights. Outside of these offers, prices start from £122, up to £350 for an Opulence Suite, based on double occupancy and including breakfast. Golf breaks and pamper packages are also available. www.tewkesburypark.co.uk

DECEMBER 2016 | ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Head In The Clouds Or Just Good Business?

Stuart Smith is celebrating 20 years of working for Oyster! The Shropshire-based copier/printer supplier is now offering Cloud services via its copier/printer devices that enable the archiving of documents safely and easily at the touch of a button. Oyster has been successfully operating in Shropshire for nearly 30 years supplying to businesses, local authorities, and education establishments throughout the Midlands and Mid Wales. The latest photocopier/printer devices Oyster supply now come Cloud enabled as standard, allowing customers to save their documents and files securely and access them from anywhere via devices such as a laptop, tablet, PDA or smart phone. While Stuart’s brain is very focussed on the Cloud he most definitely has his feet firmly on the ground as IT Specialist at Oyster, Stuart will advise customers on the pros and cons of the Cloud and how it can benefit their business – FREE OF CHARGE. Oyster prides itself on the fact they have NO SALESMEN. All advice is given by their fully qualified engineers who have the best

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Choose to join others for our Christmas parties or enjoy the ultimate in exclusivity and hire one of our private rooms ree course party packages start from £32.50 per head Our Long Room caters for up to 80 guests and for smaller parties our Drawing Room can house up to 20 guests Please enquire for rates

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DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

The sunny side of Shropshire

f you ask most folk in Shropshire about their home county they will admit that it is something of a ‘hidden gem’. They will boast that it has stunning countryside, pretty villages, striking towns, unique architecture and some very proud residents. However, to many in the UK and abroad the county remains unknown – and there is a school of thought that this should remain the case! But a range of stylish artwork products, which is now expanding and evolving rapidly, is not only being appreciated by local customers but is n Top left, Linda Edwards works from a studio in Shrewsbury with her partner being bought by and for people throughout the world. Nigel Elliott; above, her distinctive artwork appear on a variety of products Linda Edwards is the artist behind Sunny Side Art, a highly successful which appeals to cusomters around the world / Pictures: Richard Hammerton illustrator whose designs and drawings are featured in best-selling books and cards. She works together with her partner Nigel Elliott from a beautiful “I think this is the key to my success with the range and the fact that we studio overlooking Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park. also like to support local businesses and use small British manufacturers such She admits that this county is one of Britain’s best-kept secrets but is as a traditional china works in the Potteries.“ happy to be spreading the Shropshire word further afield. Another factor in its success could be simply that it makes you smile. Like many great ideas, the creation had simple origins. A few years ago As you carefully study the intricate drawings you begin to see familiar she made a drawing weaving together Shrewsbury’s characters and evocative words and phrases which odd, interesting buildings and even quirkier street trace around the illustrations. People in Shropshire names and this was the start. For example, Shrewsbury’s own favourite juggler, Today the collection includes prints, mugs, tea Justin, who practices in The Quarry, can be spotted seem to really towels, a large range of cards, notebooks and other on the town’s products. homeware and stationery, as well as a 15-metre long The gifts, sold at retailers throughout the county, appreciate the fact that mural on the wall of a café. are also being snapped up as presents for people we are celebrating their with a local connection who are now living abroad. Shrewsbury has been joined in the collection by a Shropshire range which picks out many of “We know they have been sent as far afield as county and showcasing the county’s wonderful hills, buildings, bridges and Singapore, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and the castles. And then there are products focusing on all the interesting and Americas. It’s great to know that a little piece of Oswestry, Church Stretton and Wem. Ludlow is about Shropshire is sitting in all these countries and we are beautiful places which thinking of getting a map with pins in it showing to have its own Sunny Side range and Linda has been asked to develop products featuring Whitchurch and how far our products have travelled.” they know and love Bridgnorth. Plans for the future include developing ranges for “This is my 25th anniversary of arriving in other cities and towns, including London, and the Shrewsbury. I felt welcome from day one and am so happy to be still living creation of a ‘Shropshire villages’ illustration which will be used on various here,” Linda says. merchandise. “I have always adored the town and been passionate about the county “There are some fantastic names for villages in the county, such as and when I launched Sunny Side Art in 2013 I could not have dreamt how Wigwig, Crumpsbrook and Willey, and if anyone can suggest other well it would have been received. distinctive names I would be happy to consider including them!” Linda “People in Shropshire seem to really appreciate the fact that we are concludes. celebrating their county and showcasing all the interesting and beautiful Sunny Side Art products can be found in your favourite shops in places which they know and love. Shropshire and at www.sunnysideart.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2016 | WOMAN

Living her dream

very girl has her childhood dreams but life can take unpredictable twists and turns which mean she may never fulfill them. However one Shifnal businesswoman has ensured nothing has got in her way and her determination has led to her being the proud sole owner of a luxury boutique

salon. At House of Beauty, Jamie-Leigh Bird is fulfilling her dream of bringing luxury, specialist beauty treatments usually found in big cities to the market town. Whilst project managing the refurbishment of her salon on Bradford Street, Jamie-Leigh from Muxton found time to tell County Woman about her journey and her life as a single mum and successful businesswoman. She says her children Faith, nine, Riley, six and two-year-old Elliott certainly put a smile on her face when business and life gets tough! “I know it sounds cliche but from the minute I could walk I was into hair, make-up and general girl’s things,” she says. “I’ve always looked after my own appearance but got extremely frustrated at the standard of service or the lack of availability of certain treatments here in Shropshire. “House of Beauty was opened in 2012 and it’s gone from strength to strength. I’m not going to pretend it’s been easy – I wouldn’t want anyone reading this thinking ‘I’ll set up my own business tomorrow, it seems a doddle!’ “It has taken more blood, sweat and tears than I ever imagined and more hours away from my children than I ever wanted but that’s life and they understand why mummy does it,” the 29-year-old says. “Finding the right staff has been one of the biggest issues and barriers to growing the business. Young girls often want to leave home and head for the big cities because they often believe that’s where the opportunities are, but we offer the boutique salon career right here in Shropshire.

My favourite phrase is ‘beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself’ which is so very true

n Jamie-Leigh with Riley, Faith and Elliott, and outside her beauty salon in Shifnal

“To achieve the standard my customers deserve I now train all of my own staff as I just couldn’t recruit experienced people who could offer what I wanted.” She adds: “I want to inspire people with my story but also make women feel so good that they are then empowered to go out there and inspire others in whatever way they wish – it might be through a business presentation, by telling others how good they feel or simply by smiling with confidence; everyone deserves to smile and feel great. “My favourite phrase is ‘beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself’ which is so very true. We know everyone can have a bad day so looking and feeling good is everything. It is all about the experience and walking out of our door feeling amazing.” With late night and of course weekend openings, Jamie-Leigh certainly has to juggle life and with Christmas around the corner she is working more hours than ever as she enjoys the busiest time of year. “I know sometimes I will drop the children off at school or at a friend’s house or my mum’s and that will be the last time I’ll see them that day as I’ll be working, but as a single mum the older two understand mummy works hard so they can enjoy nice holidays and for their future. Every parent wants the best for their children and sometimes sacrifices have to be made.

“But I don’t feel guilty or have any regrets – the children are happy and love seeing me happy. “They know exactly where they are and where they should be from breakfast clubs to after school clubs and sports clubs. It’s me that’s constantly checking the diary!” So with training of staff, running the business, travelling around the UK to take part in new courses and sourcing new products, whilst also looking after three children, it is surprising Jamie-Leigh has time to project manage the refurbishment of the salon at the same time. “I wanted to start this next phase of expansion of the salon with a fresh look. My customers deserve the very best and I want to give them that. “My success is of course down to hard work and determination – I am very stubborn at times – but that wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of my customers who come back time and time again. “My staff are also amazing and all share my work ethic; it wouldn’t work if they didn’t. We are a team and I am excited about the future at House of Beauty. My plan is for 2017 to be the most successful year yet and I can’t wait.” www.houseofbeautyshifnal.com

DECEMBER 2016

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DECEMBER 2016 | COMPETITIONS

t ns a io e k tit lin .u pe on co m e n. co ad a to e m om try b tyw En lso un a o n .c ca ww w

TICKETS TO THE SHOWS

WIN A £20 BOOK TOKEN

Cinderella at Theatre Severn Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn is hosting another spectacular pantomime season with the most magical pantomime of them all, Cinderella. The show opens on Wednesday 30 November, running until Sunday 8 January, and the venue is aiming to break Box Office records set last year when over 38,000 people attended Dick Whittington. The pantomime is written by Telford-born Paul Hendy and produced by Evolution, the hugely successful creative team behind pantomimes at Theatre Severn since 2011, and the company has secured another multi-talented cast. Brad Fitt, recognised as one of the funniest Dames in the country, returns to direct and star in the show, after delighting audiences as Widow Twankey in Aladdin (2011), Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk (2012) Nurse Nellie in Sleeping Beauty (2013), Mrs Smee in Peter Pan (2014) and the unforgettable Dolly last year. This year sees Brad leave the frocks in the wardrobe, as he takes the role of the loveable Buttons. Brad will team up again with BBC Radio Shropshire’s Eric Smith, who will be performing in an incredible 14th Shrewsbury pantomime. Ian Smith makes a welcome return to the

venue to play the formidable Ugly Sisters alongside Matt Daines, a role he previously performed there in 2010. They will be joined by Phil Butler as Dandini, Joanne Heywood as Fairy Godmother, Victoria McCabe in the title role, and Ryan Bennett as Prince Charming. The cast will be completed by a professional dance ensemble alongside local youngsters. Tickets are available from the Box Office at Theatre Severn (01743 281281) or online at www.theatresevern.co.uk Theatre Severn have kindly offered one lucky reader a family ticket (four people) to the performance on Friday 6 January at 6pm. To be in with a chance of winning, simply tell us:

How many people attended Dick Whittington last year?

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 or by filling in the entry form or sending on a postcard to: COMPETITIONS, Reviewmedia Ltd, Media House, Building 9, Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HR. First correct Spot the Bee entry drawn will win a £20 book token.

ENTRY FORM Theatre Severn

Theatre on the Steps

Spot the bee

name.................................................. address ..............................................

Sleeping Beauty at Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Take a much-loved fairy story, add a large helping of slapstick comedy, generous proportions of magical music and lively dance, season with lots of audience participation and you have the recipe for an excellent traditional pantomime. Bridgnorth’s Theatre on the Steps has done just that with this year’s production of Sleeping Beauty. The wicked Carabosse casts a spell on the beautiful princess, whose probable demise is rectified by the good fairy Dreamawhile, although it still needs a handsome prince to release the princess from the spell. The bungling efforts of the King’s Guard, Sir Round and Sir Render, contribute nothing to the princess’s safety but a great deal to the comedy, with the aid of the king, would-be suitor Pickles and bungling Jester. Spinning Jenny adds to both the storyline and the comedy as does the Queen and the Pantomime Dame. With a strong chorus of fairies, spinners and villagers, the music and dance will have toes tapping and hands clapping. Iain Reddihough, artistic director, says:

“Pantomime is always fun for both the cast and the audiences. It is always pleasing that so many children come and see the panto, and for many it is their first taste of live theatre, and a great introduction. “Running our pantomime throughout January means that, after all the hectic activity in the run-up to Christmas, families can relax and come along and enjoy the great tradition of the Theatre on the Steps panto.” Sleeping Beauty starts on 7 January and runs until the 28th with Saturday and Sunday matinees. Tickets start from £8 and are available online at www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk or from the box office in the Bridngorth Town Hall Building, call 01746 766477. Theatre on the Steps has kindly offered one lucky reader the chance to win a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) for a performance of their choice, subject to availability. To enter tell us:

Who casts a spell on the princess? 65

......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... postcode ............................................ phone number ................................... email ................................................. Competition rules: Closing date for all entries is 9/12/16. Send your entries to Reviewmedia Ltd Media House, Building 9 Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HP. In the event of a tie the first correct entries out of the hat will be the winners. For full terms and conditions regarding competitions please refer to www.countywoman.co.uk

COMPETITION WINNERS OCT 2016 Festive Gift Fair Sonya Wood, Shrewsbury; Heather Jones, Burcote, Bridgnorth; Carol Prince, Craven Arms; Hilary Hurdley, Broseley; Elizabeth Bailey, St Georges; Brenda Hurst, Priorslee; Sian Sheldon, Bridgnorth; Carol Reece, Ludlow; Eleanor Wild, Bourton; Carol Handock, Machynlleth.French Grey Tales Gillian Ashley, Shrewsbury Spot the Bee Lisa Williams, Oswestry

LAST WORD | DECEMBER 2016

The gift of giving Alison Ashmore

s it over yet? Christmas, that is. many of them. Each year I try to trim the number a little. Not that I’m Scrooge when it comes to Do I still need to buy for nephews and nieces (and their the festive season. It’s just that it seems to assorted hangers-on) now they are all grown up with go on… and on… and on… from far too homes and high-flying jobs? Also, if I buy joint presents early in the year, so when the big day dawns for couples, can I spend a little less? And my husband we’re all either a. glad it will soon be over surely doesn’t need much, does he? After all it was his or b. over-excited (if we are under 10). birthday only four months ago. The 12 Days of Christmas have been swept away by Anyway I’ve decided it’s high time this whole the Three Months of Christmas. Some shops wait until Christmas gift-buying extravaganza was taken firmly in they’ve scared as much Halloween spending out of us hand, so I’ve drawn up a list of rules to make it clear to as they can, but others like to tempt us with tinsel and everyone where they stand. woo us with wine (mulled) from mid October. 1. You don’t get a gift if you are boring to buy for. I I grew up going to a very love wandering around individual traditional Anglican church with little shops finding cute things to a vicar that made the Pope look buy. So don’t go telling me you’ve a bit like a lapsed Methodist. So made a wish list on Amazon. Carols in shops, Christmas meant Christmas – that 2. If you have had a baby in the Christmas fairs is, December the 25th and not a last 12 months, I am not buying for moment before. The month up you and the baby. It’s your choice and selection boxes to it was Advent, and absolutely which of you is on the list. everywhere before no singing of carols or other 3. If I won’t be seeing you over premature happiness was allowed. the festive period, don’t worry, your it’s even December? present is in the post. Honest. The tree went up in time for the Christmas Eve crib service at 6pm. 4. If I do buy you a gift, it has Bah humbug Then, and only then, could you to be a regular, rectangular shape. mention the C-word. I will allocate one evening only to It was extreme, but he had present wrapping, and most of a point. When the day itself came, it was all the that will be spent trying to find the end of the Sellotape. more special. I certainly won’t have time to ponder over awkward Now I’m going to allow schools to bring shapes. in a note, excusing them of any criticism. 5. For the reasons outlined in point four, don’t After all, they have to get Christmas done expect all those lovely little touches such as ribbons and before they break up for the jolly holidays. handmade bows. Do I look like Kirsty Allsop? But carols in shops, Christmas fairs and 6. If I’ve bought you clothes I will include a gift selection boxes everywhere before it’s even receipt. But if you take it back don’t be surprised to find December? Bah humbug. you can only exchange it for something to the value of They are after our money, of £6.99 – I will have bought it in a sale. course, and perhaps it works. 7. If you open your gift and find something Last year, it is claimed, completely inappropriate for your age/gender, please the average family ask around in the family. It’s very possible I have put the spent more than £800 wrong labels on, and while you are bemused by the celebrating the festive pipe tobacco, Uncle Rod may be wondering what to do season. Many blamed with the hot cloth cleanse and polish skincare kit. relatives, their spouse, 8. If you bought me something rubbish last year, or depictions of expect revenge. Christmas on TV and There, a sensible set of standards to live by; and as in films, for making I think you’ll agree, they fully encapsulate the spirit of them spend more Christmas. than they wanted. Have a merry one! I also blame relatives. There are so email: aashmore@reviewmedia.com

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2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes available

Heritage View, Sommerfeld Road, Hadley, Telford, TF1 5RY Showhome open 10am - 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. 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.

Johnson Design Partnership Ltd

s award winning architects and designers we aspire to create special buildings and spaces for our clients, sometimes from the most difficult of design briefs. Central to our philosophy is that good design should reflect the needs of our clients and respond to the surrounding environment. We are proud to have been chosen as regional finalists for the 2016 RICS Design through Innovation Award. We offer a complete design service from initial advice though to the completion of your project. We complete work all over the country.

We can help you if you are thinking of extending your house, building yourself a new home, or embarking on a major building project. We can advise you every step of the way, from planning, to completion in the most cost effective manner, and creating planning submissions to contract management and inspecting works on site. Email us or call with your new project enquiry.

Johnson Design Partnership Ltd telephone: 01746 768191 email: sales@johnsonltd.co.uk google: johnson design partnership

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