BROAD SHEEP FEBRUARY 2022 by Broadsheep

BROAD sheep february 2022

What’s On - Herefordshire & The Marches

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BROAD Contents Small Ads Sam’s page Hugh’s bit Art Art workshops Cinema Dance Food Music Music workshops Band directory Theatre Word Grass roots Comp therapies

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We take no responsibility for the veracity of the information herein All events listed may be subject to change with regard to Covid regulations. Clare Edwards The Lodge, Westhide, Hereford, HR1 3RQ Tel: 01432 850444

The Revenge of the Hippies

Y god doesn’t time fly? Its now 50 years since we trooped out of the big city in the crumbling woodwork of our Morris Travellers searching for a better life in the country. Like the settlers of the of 19th century America we headed West to spread our gospel of Wholefood Shops, Yoga and Free Love to the indigenous tribes of Powys and beyond. But that innocent dream of a better life has begun to turn sour. Spiraling house prices and the ravenous hordes of pension packing retirees and ruthless millennials intent on their breeding and glamping have slowly pushed the weakened old hippies Westward until it sometimes feels like the only option is to shout “To hell with it all” and jump on the Fishguard ferry and retreat to The Dingle Peninsular to live out one’s days nursing a pint of Guinness accompanied by the screech of fiddles as another session murders Drowsy Maggie. But do not despair; I think I have seen the glimmering of street lights on the horizon. A last-ditch, way out with dignity, at the final hour. A possible goal opportunity, in the last minutes of extra time. It cannot have escaped your notice that there is some pretty weird shit going on in the heart of the City of London. The planning department and architectural firms seem to have been infiltrated by a bunch of drug crazed weirdos. So in quick succession they have built The Shard, The Gherkin, The Walkie Talkie, and The Cheese Grater. Buildings that should never have left the drawing board let alone pass planning regs. Anyway, we now have a situation where the majority of the buildings in the City are way too stupid for anyone in their right mind to either want them as an office let alone live in the things. But that’s not the end of the story. There are three other major shifts that render these eyesores untenable and I intend to use bullet points just to show I mean business. • During the first 2 years of Covid all the bright young things in the city discovered you could work at home and just clock in once a week on Zoom so they have moved to Brighton and/or Margate. • Brexit has sent Financial Services into a descending tailspin from which its unlikely to recover. So pack your bags Jeremy you are moving to Amsterdam. • The major customers for stupid penthouse apartments are Russian Oligarchs but as Putin racks up the cold war rhetoric things are becoming increasingly uncomfortable for our Siberian mates. Also there are moves afoot to make life difficult for all the hordes of Kazakhstan billionaires (who knew?) who have been keeping their stashes down by Old Father Thames.

So, you might ask, what does that mean for you and I? Well I’ll tell you, this is my plan. We are going to squat the entire City of London. I want everyone who moved to Wales between 1967 and 1977 and who admits to owning an Afghan sheepskin and a pair of velvet bell bottoms to go down to the bottom field and dig out that old bus that the chickens have been living in, pump up the tyres and meet me at midday on April Fools Email: info@broadsheep.com Day at the Chepstow services just over the bridge on the M4. We are going to convoy Website: www.broadsheep.com back to London and reclaim our rightful heritage. I expect no resistance because, by then the whole place will be empty (probably) and here The Ghost of Ken Kesey and Pete - check out their new apartment, although Ken seems to have overlooked the dress code memo is the kicker. To ensure the transition is as smooth as possible I don’t want you to wear paisley shirts or crushed velvet trousers. There will be a strict dress code of bowler hats, ties and black Edwardian jackets to ensure we blend in with the remaining city workers. What can possibly go wrong? P.S. I bagsy the ground floor of The Gherkin in case I need a quick exit.

Cover pic: Remi Harris: Presteigne Assembly Rooms - 5 February: Market Theatre, Ledbury - 26 February

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FOR SALE: 2013 SUZUKI SX-4 LOW MILEAGE SUV with switchable 4WD. Excellent condition, top-of-the range model with air-con, cruise control, keyless ignition, tinted windows, alloys, parking sensors etc. Powerful turbodiesel engine with 48–50mpg. Service history, great driver, MOT til mid-July. Genuine reason for reluctant sale. £5000. Tel: 01544 260889. CHAIR REPAIRS: seats rushed & recaned. Paul Richards, 01544 209140. Email - paulrichardsft@gmail.com PIANO LESSONS IN PRESTEIGNE. All ABRSM grades or simply for fun. Contact Mzia 07981752405, mziag@hotmail.co.uk EXPERIENCED LIFE-MODEL AVAILABLE for figure drawing and portraits. Contact David 07495 947916. RETIRED PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE for local work. References available. £75.00 per day. Try me. Roy 01547 520164. WYNNES OF DINMORE COUNTRYSTORE Tea room, Poultry, Pygmy Goats, Supplies & Housing. Tuesday Saturday 9am-4.30pm. Wynnes.co.uk 01568 797314. BEEKEEPING COURSES FOR BEGINNERS Interested in keeping bees in 2021? Our weekend ‘Bee Ready’ course will prepare you with essential information and allow you to develop confidence before you get your own hive of bees. For further details phone 01886 884752/07813 276308 or email woodruffbank@btinternet.com. JAZZ PIANO TUITION A specially created course for beginners through to intermediate level students. Also coaching for Associated Board jazz exams. Presteigne/Knighton, but happy to travel. Simon Deeley, 07890 303681. simon.deeley@aol.com

FOR SALE: 2013 SUZUKI SX-4

Low mileage SUV with switchable 4WD. Excellent condition, top-of-the range model with air-con, cruise control, keyless ignition, tinted windows, alloys, parking sensors etc. Powerful turbo-diesel engine with 48–50mpg. Service history, great driver, MOT til mid-July. Genuine reason for reluctant sale. £5000. Tel: 01544 260889

HAYSTACKS MUSIC, Backfold, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5EQ. Tel: 07527 298199. Hay’s Headline Making Independent Music Shop - only a one minute walk from the main car park. Hay’s destination shop packed with pre-loved machine cleaned and new vinyl records, CDs, Books and more.

GARAGE/WORKSHOP WANTED Imminent loss of current premises means I urgently need to rent (or buy) secure, dry accommodation with electricity for a classic car, a motorbike and workshop/storage equipment, ideally within walking distance of Presteigne town centre but anything considered. Please call Mark Williams on 01544 260889.

PIANO TUNER AND TECHNICIAN Based in Llanidloes, serving Mid-Wales. Contact Matt 01686 412753 or 07843 440789 or email vicky@mousematt.net HANCOCK & MONKS MUSIC, 6 Broad Street, Hay-on-Wye. Tel: 01591 610555. Specialists in recorded and printed Classical Music for over 40 years. Huge stock of secondhand CDs, sheet music, scores and books on music. Open daily 10.30am - 4.30pm. Online catalogue at www.hancockandmonksmusic.co.uk FRUIT TREE PRUNING From one branch to an entire orchard. Tel: 01544 260656. CATERING CROCKERY, CUTLERY AND GLASSWARE FOR HIRE. Up to 100 settings. Contact Ruth on 01544 350559 or 07870 752325. P/T OR OCCASIONAL WORK WANTED Cheerful, fit, educated, mature woman seeks employment. Clean driving licence, DBS checked. Anything considered from office/business support to house sitting including driving, gardening and dog walking. Phone Katy 01547 520328. WANTED URGENTLY VINTAGE CLOTHING for male/ female, plus accessories including jewellery, shoes, etc. Also wanted: quality curtains, lace and textiles, even damaged. Plus designer clothing including male/female... tweeds, evening dresses etc. Also unusual items including fans etc. Please telephone: Annie 07798 632247. Teagowns and Textiles. annies.30@hotmail.com VIOLIN/VIOLA AND HARP LESSONS Beginner to advanced. All ages taught by a Royal Academy of Music graduate. Email nickyviola24@gmail.com VIOLIN/VIOLA LESSONS All styles, all ages, beginners to advanced. Help with composition, theory, aural training. Accompaniment also offered. Ring Tony on 01544 321925 or visit his website: http://camelmusic.co.uk for a CV and more information. ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS FROM ONLY 50P PER WEEK 1000 direct unique hits per month, top of the page on Google when you type in Presteigne, all administrative work done by volunteers, project is not for profit. SUPPORT YOUR TOWN WEBSITE. Very cheap rates: 50p per week, or full page £1 per week. For more information go to www.presteigne.org.uk, email jtennanteyles@gmail.com or telephone James Tennant-Eyles on 01544 267363. VIOLIN & VIOLA LESSONS given by experienced professional in Presteigne. All abilities and styles taught. John Hymas 07969 440183. A STITCH IN TIME Careful repairs & creative alterations to well-loved clothes. Vintage a speciality. Anne 01544 267997. PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Every Thursday. Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183, john@johnhymas.com

sam’s page

Hold On I’m Coming H

ERE at the Institute for Irrelevant Studies it has been a long old winter, as we are told it has been elsewhere, though thanks to social distancing and all that we have only rumour’s word for it. We have however been spending quite a lot of time trying to telephone public utilities and banks and so on. I am on the phone now, holding. On and on it goes. You know the story. 1. The website does not answer your question. 2. Pick up the phone. Dial. Listen to the robot voice, which in recent months has changed from HM the Queen to roboSurbiton, presumably to make the caller feel included. Note that the robot voice says that due to exceptionally high call volume the wait will be a long one. Note also that it is 4am on a rainy Tuesday and you are practically the only caller awake or anyway with the basic energy to undertake this horrid task. 3. Listen to the hold music. Start off by being glad that at least it is a bit of Bach instead of someone telling you in a high nauseating drone that Mudd Building Supplies supplies fine building materials suitable for building buildings and appreciated by most builders of buildings. Then notice that the Bach is actually a phrase on a loop that stops in the middle of a bar before repeating, and that while you have been holding it has repeated 412 times, and that between each snippet there is a patently insincere apology and a suggestion that you go to the website, which did not answer your question in the first place, which is why, soddit, you are here. 4. Tell yourself that it would be folly to plunge phone into bucket of water as you would be damaging nobody but yourself. 5. Tell yourself that it would be silly to ring off now as you have only been waiting for 45 minutes and what is 45 minutes compared to the infinite and possibly circular concatenation of events we call eternity? (45 minutes, is what). 6. Throw phone at wall. Renounce all worldly things and go to live in crate in wood. I am still holding.

This kind of thing has happened so often that the woods are filling up with crates; and here at the Institute for Irrelevant Studies we have decided that enough is enough. We have therefore instituted the Hold On I’m Coming (HOIC) phone queuing service. To use, pay a mere £300 per year to IIS (Cayman Islands) account, and our trained operatives will take care of the queuing, patching you through to the corporate telephone operatives when the long long wait is over. This is a system that almost immediately proved its worth and saved many many person hours that would otherwise have been wasted, and were spent on labours to the benefit of society, the balance of trade, literature and the arts.

Actually, though, in a sudden burst of irony of a kind the universe provides with an unstinting hand, the HOIC service has become a victim of its own popularity. Pressure of calls has meant that we have had to institute a queuing system for the HOIC, and waits have been getting unacceptably long. As for the hold music, we have tried offering options - the symphonies of Beethoven, various Dark Stars by the Dead, and of course the ever popular Old English folk song; none, however, has proved popular. We cannot be having with long waits, as we do not share the scorn for our customers demonstrated by (say) HSBC, BT, and many another bunch of sharks hiding behind initials. The only option has been to institute our Gold Star service, fee £2000 a year payable to Acme Services (Bermuda), by which you employ someone to queue for you as you attempt to contact the HOIC service. This has also proved dazzlingly popular and has indeed given rise to queues of its own, and we are this week introducing Diamond Star HOIC, fee 1 bitcoin payable to a guy called Dave behind the Chairman Xi Memorial urinals Bloody hell someone has answered. After forty-eight minutes I have finally got through. Hello? Hello – Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee. Call failed. Gimme a bottle of gin and a mug. Also a crate, for I am away to the woods. Llywelyn Hadid ap Twhir

hugh’s bit Why Should We Forgive the Past?

HERE are people who put statues up, there are people who pull statues down and there are the statues that are neither up nor down, like Colston.

Through history we have raised up statues which pay homage to those we look up to, heroes, martys, saints and important historical figures. Usually these larger than life objects are commissioned when their public meaning is at its peak, but attitudes to their subjects’ achievements inevitably change over time, and in the course of history many are taken down, and one way or another their subjects may wind up in the dock instead, literally in Colston’s case. Iconoclasm is a venerable tradition, as well as the renaming of streets and other forms of the rewriting and recording of that elusive thing - History. Roman emperors destroyed the statues of their predecessors so as to humiliate their ghosts and diminish their reputation among the living. In many countries the statues of past rulers are deservedly and democratically taken down, if democracy means what it says i.e. by the power (-cracy) of the crowd (demo-). You won’t find many 20th C. statues of Hitler, Stalin and Mussolini, Ceaucescu, Saddam Hussein and Franco on high in their home countries in the 21st., although Belgium has yet to catch up with its suite of statues of possibly the greatest genocidal figure in history: Leopold II. He is associated with c.10 million deaths between 1885 and 1908 in his personal fiefdom of the “Free State of Congo”. The phrase “Crimes against humanity” was coined in 1890 specifically to describe his activities.

Colston is a peculiar case: the slave trader died in his bed in 1721 and had to wait 174 years for this statue to be erected to his memory, in recognition of his charitable gifts to Bristol - c.£6 million at today’s values, derived from his slave-trading empire. An estimated 19,000 slaves died in irons on his ships - and in his rape rooms - and he left no other historical legacy to justify his elevation onto a pedestal. The 1895 statue recently baptised in the harbour was put up by late Victorians at the peak of the British Empire, 120 years after slavery in Britian was ruled to be illegal, 90 years after slave-trading (let alone mass murder) was made a crime and 60 years after all forms of slavery were abolished in the Empire. It was not put up by grateful contemporaries of Colston, working to the different and distant moral and legal standards applicable in the early 18th century, which we could - only perhaps - more comfortably pass over. Had it been erected at the time of his death in 1721, and if he had been something historically more important than a massive slave trader the statue might compare with the statue of Henry VIII at Bart’s Hospital in London, which Henry rebuilt, or the statue of Charles I put up by his Primate, Archbishop Laud, at St.John’s College, Oxford. These statues stand as records of kings who even by the standards of their time were arbitrary autocrats but were, unlike Colston, prime movers in two of the most significant episodes in English history - the English Reformation and the Civil War. They made History! But the “virtuous” Colston (as per the plinth) didn’t make a dent in our history til now and his statue wasn’t put up 3, 4 or 500 years ago, but in the year of my grandmother’s birth. The

statue is an anachronism that has become a living insult to the descendants of his victims, and no way is he someone I want my half African Bristolian grandchildren to look up to. Three questions: How come the city fathers put up a statue to their slave-trading forebear so many years after slavery was abolished? Answer: Under cover of recognising his charitable donations the sculpture was a deliberate riposte to the controversial statue of the great 18th C. philosopher, Bristolian MP and abolitionist Edmund Burke which was put up in the same place in the same year. 1895 was the zenith of the British Empire when “Scientific” theories of white racial supremacy were being promoted throughout the officially “Christian” & “civilised” world. Victoria ruled any number of colonies populated by people of other races, who it was therefore necessary to denigrate and devalue in order to justify their exploitation, colonisation and rule. The Burke - Colston statue affair makes it impossible to believe that this heroic statue of a slave trader was innocently, belatedly, gratefully put up in Colston’s trading port by the city fathers in ignorance of where the money came from, and what he had done. Rather it was a reaffirmation of the unassailable superiority of the White Man and his devastating intrusions into other people’s territories and cultures, opened up by explorers, (Stanley) then subverted by missionaries (Livingstone), traders and the soldiers needed to protect their interests (Rhodes, Clive). Should we maintain the statue for the hidden reason that the figure is now a historical record of values which are the very opposite of the ones we now promote? A White lie in plain view? In a now ethnically diverse city? Let us not forget - The man committed mass murder, and “crimes against humanity”. Maybe it should stay up there also as a historical record of the moral deafness of late Victorian Bristolians, and of its defenders in the 21st century, while all other advocacy of the inhumanity, criminality and racist values accompanying it would today be condemned by 99% of our body politic and summarily, legally, suppressed. Whatever the decision - he is clearly still with us. This is his third time round, after his life, his controversial re-presentation as a statue in 1895, and now - after being in the dock, he is finally on trial. Why should we forgive the past, if it is still the present? © Hugh Colvin 2022

Conquest Theatre Bromyard Live Events Fri 11th Feb, 7.30pm 1959. NEIL MAYA QUARTET (Arts Alive) 1959 is often considered an extremely influential year for jazz, with new sub genres beginning plus the release of some of the finest jazz albums ever. 17-19 & 24-26 Feb, 7.30pm HI DE HI (Conquest Productions) Hello Campers! Britain’s favourite holiday camp is opening its doors live on stage!

Streamed Events

Thurs 3 Feb, 7.30pm ROMEO & JULIET Royal Opera House

Films

4 Feb, 7.30pm NO TIME TO DIE (12A) See Daniel Craig as James Bond for the final time. Saturday Coffee Shop open 10.30am-12.30pm

Box office 01885 488575 www.conquest-theatre.co.uk

art POWYS Studer Fine Art, The Gallery, 1A The High St, Presteigne www.studerfineart.co.uk 3 Feb - 27 March ‘The Garden of Earthly Delights’. The Opening exhibition of 2022, a family affair featuring CIARA LEWIS - paintings. SAOIRSE LEWIS - jewellery. TONY HALL & GILL TENANT-EYLES ceramics. TANIA MOSSE - sculpture. Plus a permanent collection of limited edition prints by RICHARD STUDER. Open Thurs-Sat 10.30am-3pm. Radnorshire Museum, Temple St, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5DL 01597 824513 Feb Search Radnorshire Museum Facebook page for up-to-date exhibitions, workshops and events. Open Tues-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm. The Table, 43 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye 01497 822802 www.thetablehay.com 19 Feb - 12 March PETER McNIVEN. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm. Court Cupboard Gallery, New Court Farm, Llantillio Pertholey, Abergavenny NP7 8AU 01873 852011 Feb ROSIE FAREY & MANDY COATS - baskets. SUSAN GALLAGHER paintings. Open daily 11am-4pm. Art by Osian (Celf gan Osian), 3 Short Bridge St, Llanidloes SY18 6AD 07484 763507 www.osiangwent.com Open all year ‘Art by Osian’. OSIAN GWENT. A working studio and gallery of contemporary, modern and expressive art by Welsh artist. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. The Hay Makers, St John’s Place, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BN 01497 820556 Open Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Courtyard Antiques, London House, High St, Presteigne, LD8 2BA 07974 356128 outside normal hours. Antique pottery, country furniture and art. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. Erwood Station Gallery, Llandeilo Graban, Builth Wells, LD2 3SJ 01982 560674 A constantly changing mix of materials and styles occupying over 2000 square feet. Complimented by paintings and sculpture, plus seasonal exhibitions. Open 10.30am-4.30pm.

Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown 01686 625041 Until 10 Feb TEITHIO DAVIES Touring. ‘In Between The Folds are Particles: Anna Falcini’. Until 19 Feb ‘Rounding the Corners’. Creative Communities. Open Tues-Sun 11am-5pm. Knighton Fine Art, 2 Broad Street, Knighton 01547 528052 www.knightonfineart.co.uk knightonfineart@btinternet.com Feb Sale of paintings £20-£50, many others discounted. Clearance of some Christmas stock. Calendars half price. Over 450 blank Greeting cards and a range of crafts. Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Lion Street Gallery, 6 Lion St, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5AA 01497 822900 Showcasing some of the very best artists from Wales and the Borders. Open 10.30am-5pm daily except Tues, Sun 11.30am-4pm. Found Gallery, 1 Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7LB 07736 062849 www.foundgallery.co.uk Until 19 March ‘Welcome 2022’. DAPHNE HURN, BEV CAMPBELL, JENNY JOHN - artists. PAUL HARRIS - photographs. HANNAH McANDREW - pottery. ZOE WRIGHT - jewellery. RHUDDIAN CHEASLEY-RAU sculpture. Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm. The Workhouse Studio, Presteigne Industrial Estate 01544 267864 Rare antique carpets and kilims. Plus locally made pottery, art materials, textiles, haberdashery, jewellery, cards and gifts. Cafe. Wed-Sat 10am-4pm. Museum of Modern Art, Tabernacle, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth SY20 8AJ 01654 703355 info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk Until 26 Feb Young Welsh Artists. Until 26 Feb WOODY FOX - willow animal heads. Until 26 Feb ‘Top Gear’. TECWYN WILLIAMS. Until 26 Feb Tabernacle Collection: ‘The Sea’. Until 26 Feb ‘Art in the Home: History, Landscape, Language’. Wed-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm, by appointment only.

Tower House Gallery, 29 High St, Knighton LD7 1AT 01547 529530 Gallery, shop, cafe. Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm. Knighton Museum, 1 Broad St, Knighton The Museum is run entirely by volunteers and reflects the social history of the area. The majority of the exhibits have been either donated or lent by local people and reflect the varied history of this border town from the drovers to the flannel weavers; from trade to agriculture. Wed- Sat, 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East St, Rhayader, LD6 5ER 01597 810561 Feb - early March Rhayader Museum are offering an opportunity to learn basic carpentry skills and take part in the creative process of installing the displays and installations under the supervision of a skilled carpenter / lighting designer. Please email all@ carad.org.uk for details. Look out for new activities and sign up for our free information newsletter online: www.carad.org.uk’. Tues-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-12pm. Wyeside Theatre, Builth Wells 01982 552555 Until 27 March ‘Time Out’. KNIGHTON PAINTING & SKETCHING GROUP. Open theatre times. Cheese & Butter Market, Hay-on-Wye 07866 843538 Every Fri & Sat Flea & Vintage Market. Vintage clothing, bric a brac, antiques and jewellery. Open 9am-5pm. HEREFORDSHIRE The Forum, 18 Market Square, Tenbury Wells WR15 8EA 01584 810085 www.georginafranklin.co.uk GEORGINA FRANKLIN jewellery. Individual contemporary design. Commissions undertaken. Hereford Cathedral, Cathedral Close, Hereford 01432 374200 Until 26 Feb ‘HCA Crafting the Cathedral’. Bringing together contemporary craft artefacts, created and designed by students from Hereford College of Arts. Free entry, open during normal Cathedral opening hours.

Peter McNiven, The Table Gallery, Hay-on-Wye Helen Smith Apple Store Gallery, Hereford

Stella Hidden, Greenstage Gallery, Bishop’s Frome

Jason Kattenhorn, The Hive, Shrewsbury

Ciara Lewis, The Gallery, Presteigne

Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral, Cathedral Close, Hereford 01432 374200 Until 23 April ‘All Things Bright: A thousand years of metalwork from Cathedral and Diocese’. Highlighting a wide variety of metal objects, some fundamental to the act of Christian worship, others tucked away and overlooked. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, normal admission applies. Gallery 54, 54 High St, Ross-on-Wye 01989 567917 Feb Gallery Artists. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm. Hereford Museum & Art Gallery, Broad St, Hereford 01432 383383 Adults £5, students and under 18s free. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm. Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1, Rockfield Rd, Hereford HR1 2UA 01432 263937 www.applestoregallery.com Until 5 Mar Rockfield Arts. Studio artists from Apple Store Gallery and Artsite 3. Open Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Wobage Makers Gallery, Upton Bishop, Ross on Wye HR9 7QP 01989 720495 www.wobage.co.uk Until December HEILA HERRING pottery. ANDREW McGARVA stoneware pots. CLARE McGARVA - stitched textiles. PATIA DAVIS porcelain & earthenware pots. BEN CASSON - furniture. SHEILA CASSON - stoneware & earthenware pots. CLAIR HODGSON - silver. JEREMY STEWARD - wood-fired salt-glazed pottery. CLYDE HOARE baskets. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm. The Courtyard, Hereford 01432 340555 Until 5 Feb ‘Serendipity’. CHRIS CURSONS. 11 Feb - 19 March ‘Of the Body, from the Body, for the Body’. HEREFORD COLLEGE OF ARTS. Open theatre times. Old Chapel Gallery, East St, Pembridge HR6 9HB 01544 388842 www.oldchapelgallery.co.uk Feb ‘Made With Love’. Themed works for the love in your life to celebrate St Valentine’s Day. 6 April - 30 April ‘ Spring Exhibition. All year ‘Shadows on the Grass’. Garden sculpture exhibition. A collection of unique sculpture for your outdoor space in a variety of media including ironwork, carved stone, stone resin, bronze resin, ceramic and stainless steel. Open Wed-Sat 11am-4.30pm, Sun & Mon by appointment.

Greenstage Gallery, Hop Pocket, Bishop’s Frome WR6 5BT 01885 490839 www.greenstagegallery.co.uk Until 20 Feb ‘ A Little Colour on a Winters Day’. Featuring a great mixture of artists, including JULI-ANNE COWARD, CHRIS HOWELLS, STELLA HIDDEN, MARTYN JONES, PAUL POWIS & URSULA LEACH. Open Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-4pm.

The Chai Shop, High St, Bishop’s Castle 23 - 27 Feb TAHIRA PAUL. Open 12pm-6pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Hereford College of Arts, College Road Campus, Hereford HR1 1EB 01432 273359 8 Feb Degree Open Event, 2pm. 10 Feb College Open Event (Folly Lane Campus), 6pm. 17 Feb Foundation and Portfolio Open Event, 6pm. 24 Feb MA Open Event, 5pm. 1 March Degree Open Event, 2pm.

St John the Baptist Church of England Church, Bishop’s Castle 23 - 27 Feb Craft items depicting Bible stories. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

The Basement, 18 Gloucester Rd, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5BU email gabydevitt@live.com Beautiful handwoven lampshades, fabrics, pottery, willow baskets and glass. Also a range of eclectic lighting. Open Wed-Sat 9.30am-4pm. Made in Ross, The Upstairs Gallery, Market House, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5NX 01989 769398 www.madeinross.co.uk Feb Made in Ross. A co-operative of local art and craft makers who produce a wide range of beautiful work, for all tastes and budgets. Open daily, 10am-4pm. SHROPSHIRE Bishop’s Castle Town Hall 01588 630023 Until 19 Feb TAHIRA PAUL. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. 5 Feb Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm. 23 Feb - 26 Mar TIM PHILLIPS & KATE EVANS. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. 26 Feb Festival Artisan Market, 10am-4pm. 5 Mar Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm. Public Hall, Station St, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5AQ www.castleartists.co.uk 25 - 27 Feb CASTLE ARTISTS Spring exhibition. ‘Affordable Art’ featuring paintings, linocuts, watercolours, sculpture, photographs, textiles, jewellery, ceramics and cards. Open 10am-5pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com The Poppy House, 20 Market Square, Bishop’s Castle 23 - 27 Feb BISHOP’S CASTLE ART SOCIETY. Open 10am-4pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Border Lights Gallery, Bishop’s Castle 23 - 27 Feb Artworks by local artists for sale. Open 10am-4pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Community Hub (opposite the Co-Op), Bishop’s Castle 23 - 27 Feb Photographic Competition display. The 20 shortlisted photographs on display, where the public can vote for the winners. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321 23 - 27 Feb ALISON GOULDSTONE. Open 10am-4pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com Bishop’s Castle Open Studios 23 - 27 Feb JENNY JONES - paintings, The Porch House, High St, 10am-4pm. JULIA BATH - mixed media, The Old Bakery, Church St, 10am-4pm. HELEN ROBINSON - stained glass, The Old Vicarage, Church Lane, 10am-5pm. GERALDINE BURKILL - paintings, 2 Kerry Lane, 10am-5pm. JANE ALLARD - weaving, Kerry Rise, Kerry Green, 10am-4pm. MARIAN WATSON - handmade silver and gold jewellery, paintings, Chapel View, Station St, 10am-5pm. DI & ANDREW DOUCE - paintings, Old Manse, Station St, 10am-5pm. Admission free, donations to the festival invited. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com Ogilvie Vaile Conservation, Unit 9, Lower Buckton Barns, between Leintwardine and Brampton Bryan SY7 0JU 07780 616067 www.ogilvievaile.com Specialising in the conservation and restoration of fine art. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury 01743 234970 1 - 28 Feb LGBT History Month Special Exhibition. JASON KATTENHORN. Open Tues-Fri 10am-4.30pm.

Sarah Billingham, Artists’ Gallery

Art & Craft Workshops Single, dated listings are free. Ongoing workshops, £40 per year.

Ragleth Gallery, 1 Sandford Place, Church Stretton SY6 6DY 01694 723225 A contemporary gallery full of original art, inspired by the landscape and wildlife of the Shropshire Hills. Sculpture, paintings, ceramics, glass, jewellery, prints, photographs, automata and more. Thurs - Sun 11am-4pm. The Artists’ Gallery, Ludlow Farm (formerly Ludlow Food Centre), Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR 07974 652866 Feb Artists include SHELLY PERKINS - wildlife artist. PRISCILLA HANN - bronze sculpture. DANIELLE FLOWERS - contemporary jewellery. KIM DAVIS - wood turning. MEGAN EVANS - collagraph prints. JAN JAY - textile designs and screen prints. PIP JONES - watercolours. SARAH BILLINGHAM - pottery. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. www.theartistsgalleryludlow.co.uk Open daily 10am-5pm. Facebook - The Artists’ Gallery. Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, The Music Hall, Market Square, Shrewsbury SY1 1LG 01743 258881 Until 14 March Late Victorian & Edwardian Science Fiction. 19 Feb - 5 June ‘The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Book Artists’. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk www.theartistsgalleryludlow.co.uk 01584 878141 Until 5 March BRITTANY DAVIES & KATE WRIGGLESWORTH. Illustrations and paintings inspired by invented characters and narratives. Open theatre times.

Smithy Studio, Brampton Bryan SY7 0DH 07811 042478 Rustic homewares, fine art and craft. Local makers. Turned wood, slipware, lavender products, textiles, cards and gifts. Thurs-Sat 11am-4pm.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN A COMMUNITY STITCHING PROJECT TO CELEBRATE THE RIVER LUGG? I live in Herefordshire and am seeking participants for this short research project that will end with an art exhibition in May 2022. I am studying at Manchester Metropolitan University and hope that together we can investigate stories of the Lugg and stitch. I am interested to find out about our heritage, folklore, and rural place. This project involves embroidering a snowdrop in as little or as much detail as you wish with absolutely no experience of stitching required. A printed design to fill in will be available if you prefer. All materials provided. If you would like to hear more about stitching together and sharing stories of the River Lugg, please email me, Jackie Morris, on jacqueline.morris@stu.mmu. ac.uk or telephone on 07501 306019 for more information, you can decide if you would like to take part. There is no obligation to do so. If you do decide to, I will ask you to sign a consent form and fill in a short questionnaire at the end. You can withdraw at any time and can be involved for as long or as short a time as you wish. I will arrange a date where we can meet in the community in a safe way or online in a Zoom call or both, depending on the latest Covid-19 Government regulations. Donations of embroidery threads and sewing needles would also be appreciated. ARE YOU AN ARTIST WANTING TO BE PART OF H.ART THIS YEAR? To take part complete the online form @h-art.org.uk/take-part from 7 February. Deadline for entry 9 March. www.h-art.org.uk VILLAGE ART CLUBS Love art? Come and join us! Friendly, local clubs with professional tuition run for three terms per year. Beginners and experienced painters all welcome. Call Liz on 07938 563716 or see the website for details - www.villageartclubs.co.uk ONLINE ART CLASS Would you like to learn how to paint or improve on the skills you already have? All you need is access to Zoom. Also art tuition and home school art classes for 11-18 year olds. Stephen Hand, stephen@handdrawnart.co.uk 07786 934880.

ALEX ALLPRESS POTTERY SCHOOL - POTTERY WORKSHOPS Church Street, Builth Wells, LD2 3BS, Powys. Courses/workshop throughout the year. Throwing, Hand building, glazing, kiln firing and much more. Clay and equipment and your own wheel included. For more details 07443 875016. alexallpressceramics@gmail.com / alexallpress.co.uk GINN’S CREATIVE WORKSHOPS Discover your creative potential at my workshops covering, Art, Textiles and Sewing Techniques, catering for the experienced and inexperienced. Dates to suit you. 01432 760961. STONE CARVING WORKSHOPS Monthly in Llangarron HR9 6PH. Glenn Morris, sculptor, leads an informal, friendly group. Suitable for beginners and those with some experience. Full tuition, safety equipment and tools provided. Stone available if required. Copious refreshments guaranteed. 01989 770776. Frances@artsinthemarches.co.uk BASKETMAKING USING RUSH Presteigne. Courses available throughout the year covering many techniques. Small groups and all levels taught. All materials and equipment included. For more information see Rushmorebaskets. com or contact Clair at rushmorebaskets@gmail.com 07713 514902. CREATIVE BREAKS Learn a new skill and explore your creativity with experienced tutors, all based in beautiful countryside with outstanding views and local produce. We offer a wide range of courses throughout the year:- Basketmaking, Enamelled Jewellery, Felt-making, Glass Fusing, Hand Block Printing, Hedgerow Medicine, Mosaics, Painting, Pastels, Photography, Plant Dyeing, Spinning and Weaving, Rag Rug Making, Sewing, Stained Glass, Stonecarving, Woodblock printing, Drawing, Quilting and Upholstery. For full details visit www.creativebreaks.co.uk Make it yourself - take it home - treasure it – or give it with pride! THE ARTHOUSE STUDIO Creative workshops including lino printing, glass fusing, jewellery making, fabric printing, traditional glass painting, stained glass. The Art House Studio, Weobley, 07467 941208, www.thearthousestudio.co.uk

GEORGINA FRANKLIN Jewellery Individual Contemporary Design Commissions undertaken

Please see website for studio opening times.

www.georginafranklin.co.uk

The Forum, 18 Market Square, Tenbury Wells, Worcs. WR15 8EA

Phone 01584 810085

Specialising in the conservationrestoration of works of art on paper and archive material. Unit 9, Lower Buckton Barns, between Leintwardine and Brampton Bryan, SY7 0JU.

Please call or email Louise Vaile for appointments and further information.

T: 07780 616067 E: info@ogilvievaile.com W: ogilvievaile.com

Sat 19 February & Sat 19 March A TWO-DAY CALLIGRAPHY COURSE FOR BEGINNERS Monkland Village Hall nr Leominster from 10-1pm. All materials supplied. £20 for the course. For details or booking please contact Kris 01544 327657 Marches Scribes. Fri 25 February SKETCH A GURNEY STOVE Half day workshop with Iain Welch. With contextual historical background provided by Cathedral Archivist, Elizabeth Semper O’Keefe. Hereford Cathedral, 10am-12.30pm, £25 per person, including all materials and hot drink, book via website, www.herefordcathedral. org 01432 374200. February MID WALES ARTS CENTRE 5 Feb - Family Pottery. 12 Feb - Life Drawing with Sandy Craig. Weekly Pottery Clubs for Adults, Thurs 2-4pm & 7-9pm, Wed 7-9pm, Fri 11am-1pm. Home Education Club, Wed 2-4pm. After-Scool Club, Thurs 5-6.30pm. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Newtown, 01686 688369. February SHROPSHIRE HILLS Shropshire Hills Discover Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060. February THE HIVE WORKSHOPS Sat 12 Feb - Darwin’s Bees Pottery Workshop, 3pm, £8. Every Tues - Life Drawing for all ages, 7-9pm. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970.

Eastnor Pottery February EASTNOR POTTERY Please book online. Booking essential. www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Email admin@eastnorpottery. co.uk or tel 01531 633886.

Would you like to participate in a community stitching project to celebrate the River Lugg? I live in Herefordshire and am seeking participants for this short research project that will end with an art exhibition in May 2022. I am studying at Manchester Metropolitan University and hope that together we can investigate stories of the Lugg and stitch. I am interested to find out about our heritage, folklore, and rural place.

Arts Lecture by Peter Wakelin Lecture Title ‘Charles Burton: Painting Still’ Saturday 5 March 2022, 7.30pm at The Drama Studio, Gwernyfed High School. Peter, formerly Director of Collections at the National Museum of Wales, talks about one of Wales’s major figures of art; Welsh painter Charles Burton. Ticket price: £12, £7 if unwaged or in full time education, 10% members discount applies. Booking essential: www.glasburyarts.co.uk *In the event of COVID-19 intervening the lecture will be hosted online via zoom.*

GLASBURY ARTS 16

This project involves embroidering a snowdrop in as little or as much detail as you wish with absolutely no experience of stitching required. A printed design to fill in will be available if you prefer. All materials provided. My name is Jackie Morris. If you would like to hear more about stitching together and sharing stories of the River Lugg, please telephone on 07501 306019 or email me jacqueline.morris@stu.mmu.ac.uk I will need to tell you more about the project so you can decide if you would like to take part. There is no obligation to do so. If you do decide to, I will ask you to sign a consent form and fill in a short questionnaire at the end. You can withdraw at any time and can be involved for as long or as short a time as you wish. I will arrange a date where we can meet in the community in a safe way or online in a Zoom call or both, depending on the latest Covid-19 Government regulations.

www.tents4elements.co.uk

February BISHOP’S CASTLE ARTS FESTIVAL WORKSHOPS 23 Feb - Kati Taylor Copper Labels workshop, 10am-12pm, Town Hall, BC. Textile Talk by Jim Gaffney, 5pm, Town Hall, BC. Willow Weaving Workshop with Sophie Francis, Methodist Hall, Station St, BC, 10am-12pm & 1-3pm, £10. 24 Feb - Bishop’s Castle Arts Society Open Meeting, The Methodist Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 2-4.30pm. 24 Feb - Signwriting Demonstration by Malcolm Reeves. Weighbridge Railway Museum, Station St, Bishop’s Castle, 10am-4pm, free. 24 Feb - Knitwits Meeting, local knitting group, The Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 6.15pm, free. 24 Feb - Stained Glass Window Workshop, Oriel Glass Studio, The Old Vicarage, Church Lane, BC, 11am-1pm & 3pm-5pm (for ages 14+), £10. ‘Customise, Upcycle, Embellish’, Upstairs in the Poetry Pharmacy, BC, 10.30am-12.30pm, free, materials and tools, but bring your own if you wish. 25 Feb - Origami Workshop with Rachael & Valerie at the Library, Enterprise House, Station St, BC, 10am & 11am, free, donations to Festival Funds invited. Scraptastic with Liz Still, 2-4pm, SpArC Theatre, BC, free, donations welcome, 01588 630321. 26 Feb - Poetry & Cartoons Workshop with illustrator and poet Mark Bardsley, Poetry Pharmacy, upstairs in the Distillery space, 10am-12pm, £10, 01588 638069. 27 Feb - Clare Linford Needle Felting workshop, 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle. Cartoon Drawing - A family workshop with Malcolm Whittall, 10am-11am & 12pm-1pm, free, Methodist Hall, BC. Poetry Workshop ‘ Touch Paper’ with Pat Edwards, Poetry Pharmacy, High St, BC, 1-3pm, £10 to include tea/coffee/cakes. Cobble Chalking with Sue Percy, next to the Town Hall, BC, 2-4pm, free, donations welcome. 23 - 27 Feb ‘The March of the Elephants’, a project to create a world-class elephant-inspired trail of varied artworks placed around Bishop’s Castle, trail sheet can be collected from the Town Hall. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com 01588 630023.

March & April RAG RUG MAKING DAY WORKSHOPS Creative recycling with Jenni Stuart-Anderson. Suit beginners and returners. 4-6 March - Weekend Workshop, Huntlands Farm, Whitbourne, WR6 5RD. Fri 5pm - Sunday lunch. Accommodation, food, tuition £265. 5 March - Day Workshop at Huntlands Farm, Whitbourne, WR6 5RD, hooking and progging, 10am-5pm, £65. 2 April - Day Workshop, Learn progging and hooking for recycling textiles. Leysters & Middleton Village Hall, 10am-4pm, £60 includes beverages. Info and bookings 01568 750229, email jenni.ragrugs@freeuk.com, www.jenni.ragrugs@freeuk.com Tuesdays DRINK AND DRAW Weekly life drawing class. Bring your own materials, just turn up. Upstairs in De Koffie Pot, Bridge St, Hereford, 7-9.30pm, £8, 01432 357753. Wednesdays INFORMAL ART GROUP All welcome, help given if required. The Old School Community Hub, New Radnor, 2-4pm, 01544 350242. Thursdays HEREFORD LIFE DRAWING The Courtyard, Hereford, 10am-1pm, £7.50, 01432 340555.

Stuart Morris HND

Over 20 years experience, Covid safe, providing all equipment

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MARILYN KENDRICK ART Marilyn is a self taught artist, living amongst the Brecon Beacons, who specialises in landscape, acrylic on canvas board paintings.

All her paintings can come framed or unframed and very carefully packaged and delivered to the buyer’s home.

For further details of Marilyn’s work, please contact Marilyn at Cricketatgm@aol.com or Cally at beckcally@gmail.com Facebook Group Marilyn’s Art

cinema LICORICE PIZZA (15)

Having lived awhile in 1970s Los Angeles, Paul Thomas Anderson’s lovingly recreated setting for this affecting, late stage coming-of-age story filled me with warm nostalgia but even more impressive is the performance of Alana Haim, one third of pop-rock sister act, Haim (who Anderson has made several promo-vids for). She plays a 20-something photographer’s assistant unsure of her identity, who becomes fixated with a 15-year-old schoolboy, Gary (the late Philip Seymour Hoffman’ son, Cooper), who’s tangibly more self-confident than her but they both seek some sort of purpose in a world where the temptations not to are plainly evident. Utterly unlike Anderson’s visceral THERE WILL BE BLOOD and deeply disturbing THE MASTER (starring Cooper’s dad), this has a freewheeling, seductive quality abetted with great cameos from Bradley Cooper, Tom Waits and Sean Penn. Hugely enjoyable.

4 March LUZZU Preview 4, 7 March LAMB (15) 4 March THE PHANTOM OF THE OPEN (PG) Preview 5 March MR BACHMANN AND HIS CLASS Preview 5 - 6 March THE REAL CHARLIE CHAPLIN (U) 5 March OPEN SCREEN 5 - 7 March THE SOUVENIR PART II (15) 5, 7 March THE WORST PERSON IN THE WORLD Preview 6 March INDEPENDENT MISS CRAIGIE 6 - 7 March LINGUI, THE SACRED BONDS 7 March TITANE (18) 7 March NIGHTMARE ALLEY (15) The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford 01432 340555

DISCOVERY CENTRE, C.A. 23 Feb ENCANTO Bar and themed crafts from 4pm, film 5pm, booking essential. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060.

All reviews by Mark Williams

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW

CONQUEST, BROMYARD

1 & 2 Feb THE ELECTRICAL LIFE OF LOUIS WAIN 1 & 3 Feb A HERO 3 Feb COW 4, 5 & 8 Feb LICORICE PIZZA 7 Feb TOKYO STORY 8 & 10 Feb MEMORY BOX 11, 12, 15 & 16 Feb OPERATION MINCEMEAT 15 Feb MEMORIA 19, 21 & 22 Feb NIGHTMARE ALLEY 22 & 24 Feb CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG 23 & 24 Feb CYRANO 25, 26, 28 Feb & 3 March BELFAST Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow, www.ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk 01584 878141

4 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) 4 March THE COURIER (12A) 6 March THE ALPINIST (12A) Conquest Theatre, Tenbury Rd, Bromyard. Details 01885 488575

BRECON FILM SOCIETY 7 Feb IDA 7 March TOVE Doors open 7.15pm for 7.30pm start. Brecon Coliseum Cinema, Wheat St, Brecon. Membership enquiries 01874 623166

COURTYARD, HEREFORD 4 - 9 Feb SAVE THE CINEMA (12A) 12 Feb JURASSIC PARK (PG) 1 - 3 Feb THE KING’S MAN (15) 1 - 3 Feb THE LOST DAUGHTER (15) 1 - 3 Feb THE HUMANS (15) 1 - 7 Feb TICK, TICK... BOOM! (12A) 2 & 8 Feb C’MON C’MON (15) 5 Feb CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG (PG) (free pre-activity from 10.30am) 4 - 22 Feb BELFAST (12A) 11 - 21 Feb LICORICE PIZZA (15) 18 - 26 Feb DEATH ON THE NILE (12A) 19 - 26 Feb SING 2(U) 4, 6 March IL BUCO Preview 4 - 6 March DRIVE MY CAR (15) 4, 5, 7 March COW (12) 4, 6 March PLAYGROUND Preview 4 - 7 March PARALLEL MOTHERS (15)

2 Feb OFFICIAL SECRETS (15) Cardington VH 01694 771295 3 Feb AFTER LOVE (12) Brilley VH 01544 327227 4 Feb THE LAST BUS (12A) Staunton-on-Wye VH 01981 501031 4 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard 01885 488575 7 Feb THE PIANO (15) Colabrookdale & Ironbridge Community Centre 01952 433297 7 Feb EMMA (2020) (U) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911 8 Feb THE WHISTLERS (15) Garway Hall 01600 750465 8 Feb THE PERFECT CANDIDATE (PG) All Stretton VH 07812 583113 8 Feb SUMMERLAND (12) St Mary’s Church Hall, Ross-on-Wye 07789 778048 9 Feb OFFICIAL SECRETS (15) Hope Bowdler VH 01694 723648

9 Feb MILITARY WIVES (12A) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125 10 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) Bagley Sports & Social Club 07776 378622 11 Feb ON THE BASIS OF SEX (12A) Bodenham Parish Hall 01568 797932 11 Feb MINARI (12) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125 12 Feb MRS LOWRY & SON (PG) Ballingham Old School Hall 07967 017759 12 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) Aston on Clun VH 01588 660545 13 Feb FAHIM (U) The Coach House Theatre, Malvern 01684 892277 14 Feb GREED (15) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911 15 Feb A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD (PG) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321 15 Feb THE KITE RUNNER (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125 17 Feb AMMONITE (15) Pudleston VH 01568 750292 17 Feb OFF THE RAILS (15) Norbury VH 01588 650302 17 Feb BLACKKKLANSMAN (15) Gorsley VH 01989 750649 17 Feb ARTHUR’S DYKE (15) Claverley VH 01746 710528 17 Feb LIMBO (12A) Castlemorton Parish Hall 01531 631503 18 Feb FINDING YOUR FEET (12) Clungunford VH 01588 660159 18 Feb KNIVES OUT (12A) Marton VH 01743 792790 18 Feb MR JONES (2019) (15) All Stretton VH 07812 583113 19 Feb SWIMMING WITH MEN (12A) Hanley Broadheath VH 07972 183164 19 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) Lindridge Parish Hall 01584 881615 19 Feb SWIMMING WITH MEN (12A) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273 20 Feb EVEN WHEN I FALL (12A) Pembridge Film Nights 01544 387571 21 Feb FACES, PLACES (12A) Coalbrookdale & Ironbridge Community Centre 01952 433297 21 Feb RICHARD JEWELL (15) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911 22 Feb ON THE BASIS OF SEX (12A) Loppington VH 01939 809236 24 Feb LITTLE WOMEN (2019) (U) Grimley Peace Hall, Sinton Green 01905 641572 24 Feb LIMBO (12A) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321 25 Feb DREAM HORSE (PG) Longden VH 07539 545846 25 Feb THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD (PG) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

BELFAST (12A)

Like LICORICE PIZZA, Kenneth Branagh’s masterful film evokes a strong sense of a city at a critical point in its history and this being his hometown, it’s written and directed with both authority and, despite being set during the ‘Troubles’, much fondness. Shot in a rich monochrome and seen through the eyes of 9 year-old Buddy (great discovery, Jude Hill) who, as his dad (Jamie Dornan) works in England to pay the bills, lives with grandparents (Ciaran Hinds and a scene-stealing Judi Dench), BELFAST avoids most of the clichés usually associated with the age-old religious conflict although the Van Morrison-heavy soundtrack is a tad obvious. Even if he never quite understands it, the sectarian street violence which stunningly opens the film and erupts occasionally throughout informs Buddy’s childlike view of a world not his making, and nudges us to re-asses our own opinions.

26 Feb OFFICIAL SECRETS (15) Almeley VH 07557 659291 27 Feb THE BAKER (12) Bicton VH 01743 850495 28 Feb SUPERNOVA (15) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911 28 Feb LITTLE WOMEN (2019) (U) All Stretton VH 07812 583113 5 March PIG (15) Bedstone & Hopton Castle VH 01547 530282 4 March THE COURIER (12A) Simpson Hall, Burghill 07726 148736 4 March MOTHERING SUNDAY (15) Cawley Hall, Eye 01568 615836 4 March THE COURIER (12A) Garway VH 01600 750243 4 March I AM BELMAYA (12A) Knighton Community Centre 01547 520602 6 March SOUAD (12A) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125 5 March AZOR (12A) St Mary’s Church Hall, Ross-on-Wye 07789 778048 5 March THE COURIER(12A) Lady Emily Hall, Tarrington 01432 890720

THE EDGE, MUCH WENLOCK 7 Feb EMMA (PG) 14 Feb GREED (15) 21 Feb RICHARD JEWELL (15)

28 Feb SUPERNOVA (15) 7 March MILITARY WIVES (12) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911

THE HIVE, SHREWSBURY 4 Feb IN BLOOM (15) 18 Feb THREE FACES (15) 4 March WHO YOU THINK I AM (15) The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, 01743 234970

THE LOFT, HEREFORD 3 & 10 Feb AFTER LOVE (12A) 4 Feb DUNE (12A) 5 Feb BOSS BABY 2 (PG) 6 Feb CABARET (15) 11 Feb LAST NIGHT IN SOHO (18) 12 Feb ENCANTO (PG) 13 Feb DIRTY DANCING (15) 14 Feb WAYNE’S WORLD (PG) 17 & 24 Feb MOGUL MOWGLI (15) 18 Feb GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE (12A) 20 Feb PANDORA’S BOX (U) 25 Feb NO TIME TO DIE (12A) 26 Feb TANGLED (PG) 27 Feb CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF (12A) 27 Feb LES QUIZERABLES: THE LOFT FILM QUIZ The Loft, 18a West St, Hereford HR4 0BX 01432 507460 M

REGENT CINEMA, TENBURY

C’MON C’MON (15)

1 - 3 Feb HOUSE OF GUCCI (15) 4, 5, 7 & 8 Feb THE KING’S MAN (ctbc) Regal Cinema, Teme St, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442

SAVOY, MONMOUTH 1 - 3 Feb THE LOST DAUGHTER (15) 8 Feb PETITE MAMAN (U) 8 March PIG (15) Savoy Theatre, Church St, Monmouth 01600 772467

SPARC, BISHOP’S CASTLE

In another new release centred on a few key relationships, Joaquin Phoenix steps beyond his invariably complex hard-man roles (SISTERS BROTHERS, YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE, JOKER) as radio journalist Johnny, whose estranged and troubled sister (Gabby Hoffman, WILD) asks him to shepherd her boisterous 8 year-old, Jesse (Woody Norman, most recently in POLDARK), on a cross country road-trip. Perhaps inevitably, this becomes a heart-warming experience but it avoids mawkishness, not least because writer/director (AMERICAN WOMEN) well understands the human condition and develops the revelatory bonds between the three main protagonists gradually, naturally and with beguiling wit and charm. And like BELFAST, the black and white photography adds poignancy and a visual impact that colour might’ve watered down.

MKT. THEATRE, LEDBURY 9 Feb MILITARY WIVES (12A) 11 Feb MINARI (12A) 15 Feb THE KITE RUNNER (12A) 25 Feb THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD (PG) Market Theatre, Market St, Ledbury 07967 517125

MALVERN THEATRES 4 - 7 March THE DUKE (12A) 4 & 5 March LINGUI, THE SACRED BONDS 5 March COW (12A) 5 - 7 March THE REAL CHARLIE CHAPLIN (U) 5, 7 March THE SOUVENIR PART II (15) 5 March THE PHANTOM OF THE OPEN (PG) Preview 6 & 7 March LOLA & THE SEA (15) 6 March NANOOK OF THE NORTH (U) Silent with live music accompaniment 7 March TITANE (18) Malvern Theatre 01684 892277

OLD MKT. HALL, SHREWS. Until 3 Feb NIGHTMARE ALLLEY (ctbc) 4 - 17 Feb BELFAST (12A) Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281

POT & PAGE, LEDBURY 11 Feb CLASSIC MOVIE NIGHT Three short films from the golden age of cinema alongside a three-course, cinema inspired meal. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, £30, 01531 248743 www.potandpage.co.uk

PRESTEIGNE SCREEN

4 Feb NIGHT OF THE KINGS (15) 11 Feb SHIVA BABY (15) 18 Feb ANNETTE (15) 4 March THE NEST (15) www.presteignescreen.org.uk Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, doors open 7.30pm, 8pm start. 01544 370202, 01544 260577

3 Feb PIANO TO ZANSKAR (12A) 10 Feb THE FRENCH DISPATCH (15) 15 Feb A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD (PG) 24 Feb LIMBO (12A) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 01588 630321

THEATRE SEVERN, SHREWS 1 March THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281.

WYESIDE, BUILTH WELLS Until 6 Feb ENCANTO (PG) 6, 12 & 13 Feb CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG (PG) Until 13 Feb BELFAST (12A) 11 - 17 Feb MORBIUS (ctbc) 11 - 17 Feb NIGHTMARE ALLEY (ctbc) 18 - 20 Feb SCREAM (ctbc) 18 - 24 Feb MOONFALL (ctbc) Until 27 Feb SING 2 (ctbc) 21 - 24 Feb PARALLEL MOTHERS (15) 25 Feb - 3 March DEATH ON THE NILE (ctbc) Wyeside, Builth Wells 01982 552555

LIVE EVENTS ON SCREEN 3 Feb ROMEO & JULIET Royal Opera House. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.

Romeo & Juliet

2 Feb BILL MURRAY’S NEW WORLDS: THE CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION Screen legend Bill Murray and world renowned cellist Jan Vogler rock the Acropolis with a timeless mix of music, literature and poetry. Old Market Theatre, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281.

The Book of Dust - La Belle Savauge

4 Feb LEOPOLDSTADT National Theatre Live. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7pm, 07967 517125. Arts Alive. 14 Feb ROMEO & JULIET Royal Opera House. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.15pm, 01432 340555. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.15pm, 01952 728911. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.15pm, 01874 611622. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.15pm, 01600 718401. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.15pm, 01584 878141. Booth’s Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye, 7.15pm, 01497 822010. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 7pm, 01584 811442. Old Market Theatre, Shrewsbury, 7.15pm, 01743 281281. 17 Feb THE BOOK OF DUST LA BELLE SAUVAGE National Theatre Live. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm, 01588 630321. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7pm, 07967 517125. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock,

7pm, 01952 728911. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 611622. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, 01600 718401. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 878141. Booth’s Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 822010. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 7pm, 01584 811442. Old Market Theatre, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281. 20 Feb ROMEO & JULIET The Royal Ballet. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, 01588 630321. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 2pm, 07967 517125. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 2pm, 01584 811442.

22 Feb LEOPOLDSTADT National Theatre (encore). Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 611622. 25 February ROMEO & JULIET Royal Opera House (encore). Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281. 3 March THE BOOK OF DUST LA BELLE SAVAUGE National Theatre Live. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555.

WORKSHOPS

Wednesdays FILM MAKING CLUB The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.15pm & 6.45pm, £73 per term, 01432 340555.

PLEASE HELP TO OPEN THIS DOOR! Can you help? This old door at 68 Church Street Bishops Castle has been shut for many years. Please help us to raise £24,000, towards the cost of converting the building into two flats for local people in housing need.

How to give You can give by going to: www.bcclt.co.uk/donate, or send a cheque with your address on the back, in an envelope marked ‘Stars Appeal (Broad Sheep)’ to Enterprise House, Station Street, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5AQ.

For more information about this community led project please contact Jonathan Brown by phoning, or texting 07497 142 485. THANK YOU.

dance Dance Performance

Curtain Up!

Sat 5 February THE SNOW QUEEN BALLET THEATRE UK. Re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale ballet. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, 01982 552555. Mon 7 & Tues 8 February WINTER DANCE A showcase of different styles and genres generated from the dance programmes at Shrewsbury High School. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, £12, 01743 281281. Tues 8 February THE COURTYARD’S SPECTACULAR TEA DANCE This fun and nostalgic dementia friendly event is full of music, tea, cakes and dancing, plus a student will be coming along to perform and join in the fun. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm, 01432 340555. Thurs 10 - Sat 12 February CURTAIN UP! HEREFORD ACADEMY OF DANCE celebrate the joys of live theatre with a dance tribute to stage musicals past and present. Ballet, tap, modern, jazz and commercial. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm plus 2pm matinee on Saturday, 01432 340555. Mon 21 February BURN THE FLOOR Kevin Clifton and the sensational worldwide Ballroom dance company BURN THE FLOOR return. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, £43-£28, VIP Meet & Greet £81, 01743 281281.

Dance Workshops

Starting January LEARN 2 JIVE BEGINNERS CLASSES Mon 3 Jan - Bartestree Village Hall, Hereford, HR1 4BY 7.30-8.30pm. Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton, SY6 6BY, 7.30-8.30pm. Tues 4 Jan - Pembridge Village Hall, HR6 9EB, 7.30-8.30pm. Stretton Sugwas Village Hall, HR4 7PT, 7.30-8.30pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, SY8 1AZ, 7.30-8.30pm. Wed 5 Jan - Burford Village Hall, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8LA, 7.30-8.30pm. Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Malvern, WR14 4LR, 7.30-8.30pm, Beginners Jive. 8.30-9.30pm, Intermediate Jive. Thurs 6 Jan - Ledbury Dance Studio, Bye Street, HR8 2AA, 7.30-8.30pm. Abberley Village Hall, WR6 6AZ, 7.30-8.30pm. Sun 9 Jan - Eardisley Village Hall, HR3 6NH, 7.30-8.30pm. For more information please e-mail info@coolmovesdance.co.uk Matt or Sarah on 01989 750354. www.coolmovesdance. co.uk Coolmoves Dance & Fitness for adults.

FOR SALE: 2013 SUZUKI SX-4

Single, dated listings are free. Year round entries £40. Sun 27 February MORRIS DANCING WORKSHOP Martha Rhoden’s Tuppenny Dish & Shropshire Bedlams bring energy, skill and pleasure. The Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 12-2pm, free, donations invited. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com ALANYA’S BELLYDANCE CLUB - OPEN LEVEL Bodenham Parish Hall, HR1 3LB. 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 1.00-3.30pm. No-obligation taster, then pay per term. For full information visit www.alanyabellydance. com or call Abbie on 07962 161081.

COURTYARD, HEREFORD CLASSES Tues - Zumba, 1-2pm, £5.50 per session. Fri - Chance to Dance for the over 50s, 10.15am-11.15pm, £5 per session. Tues - Laura Gale Contemporary Dance, energetic class for beginners and experienced dancers, 8-9pm, £8 drop in or £39 for 6 weeks. Tues - Laura Gale Street Jazz, 7-8pm, £8 drop in, £39 for 6 weeks. Thurs - Silver Swans Adult Ballet for the over 55s, 1.30-2.30pm, £5 per session. Fri - Dancing Tots for ages 2-4 years, 11.30am-12.15pm, £4 per child. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555. Fortnightly Saturdays CHORUS LINE Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays MID WALES DANCE ACADEMY Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561. Tuesdays FOXWELP MORRIS Why not try Morris dancing? We practice every Tues evening at 7.30pm in Moccas Village Hall from Sept to May. Mainly dances from the Cotswolds, but also some from the Welsh Borders. All sexes welcome, and ability to dance not necessary! Beginners welcome. Contact Paul 01497 821003 or Jed 07549 096291. Wednesdays CIRCLE DANCING Leominster Community Centre, 2-3.30pm. Kathryn 01568 616411 or 01584 877446. Wednesday mornings & Thursday evenings TUDOR & MEDIEVAL DANCE Would you like to learn to do Tudor and Medieval dances? Come and join us in Leominster on Wednesday mornings or Thursday evenings. Beginners welcome; no previous experience necessary. Contact Maureen Crumpler on 01568 613477 or email alancapriole@talktalk.net

Wednesdays BIG FISH LITTLE FISH FOR MUMS AND TOTS! Dance Centre, Llandrindod Wells, 2-3pm, £3 drop in, for tots aged 8 months+, 01597 824370. Thursdays WILD WEST SALSA Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 7.45pm, £6, students £5, social dance only £4, 01432 357753. Fridays CHANCE TO DANCE For the over 50s. The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.15am, £4.50, 01432 340555. Fridays DANCING TOTS For ages 2-4 years. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11.30am, £4, 01432 340555. Fortnightly Sunday HIGHFLYERS YOUTH DANCE COMPANY For ages 11-18 with disabilities or additional needs and their siblings. All welcome. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 2-4pm, 01743 234970 or email Rachel youthsidance@gmail.com

food page The Walnut Tree Inn, Abergavenny

IFTEEN years ago, readers may remember, Ludlow had an impressive reputation for haute cuisine, as it was called before Brexit. Gushing pieces appeared frequently in Sunday newspapers about the phenomenon of a small, historic town which contained no less than three eating places with Michelin stars. Of those three outstanding restaurants, the most spectacular was Hibiscus, which super-chef, Claude Bosi had opened after earning a Michelin star at the otherwise undistinguished Overton Grange. By the time Hibiscus had gained a two star rating, it became clear that it wasn’t economically possible to sustain the standards that this required among a comparatively sparse scattering of chimney pots, and Bosi decamped to London’s Conduit Street in 2007, where he soon regained his two stars before moving in 2017 to Bibendum, the quintessential late art-nouveau Michelin building on London’s Fulham Road. The building was a towering presence in Mr P’s life for the ten years he lived on the Fulham Road and he is deeply grateful to Sir Terence Conran for buying it in 1987 and ensuring the artistic integrity of this unique former tyre-fitting premises. Mr Pernickety and his Lovely Companion roosting for a few days around the corner at the Chelsea Arts Club towards the end of 2021 considered a visit there to slurp up a few oysters. When researchers revealed that a dozen Maldon Pacifics and half a litre of Chablis would cost the thick end of a hundred quid, they abandoned the idea until Mr P’s ship finally heaves into view and he is in a position to review it thoroughly for the readers of the Woolly Organ. Another former Ludlow restaurant etoilé which also closed about 15 years ago was the small but special Merchant House in Lower Corve Street. The brilliant skillet wielder in this timber-framed place was Mr Shaun Hill, a countryman of the late great Seamus Heaney, who would visit from time to time with Ludlow friends for the craic and some high quality victuals. Ultimately, Hill decamped 50 miles south to the Walnut Tree Inn at the south end of the Skirrid Mountain near Abergavenny; Mr P last visited over twenty years ago when the great Franco Taruschio was in charge. Subsequent owners, trashed by the vile Gordon Ramsay and his horrible TV show were forced to sell the place in 2008, when Shaun Hill moved in, and quickly earned a Michelin star for the third time.

the soufflés had not been made that day – possibly not even that week – and someone had simply taken them out of the microwave much too soon. These kinds of horror were not on offer at Shaun Hill’s Walnut Tree. It is an old inn, set among sloping sheeppasture and ancient hedges. Inside, the dining-room has a light, airy ambience with fresh flowers on the windowsills and thought-provoking pictures on the walls. It immediately felt right to Mr P and his guest as they settled down to choose their lunch. The FF was in a fishy mood and ordered a Kerala fish curry, product of the chef’s enjoyment of the spices in that part of India, with a main course of Skate, Jerusalem artichokes and hazel nuts. Shaun Hill, like many chefs, boasts about his hunting down of supreme local ingredients; in his case, it turns out to be an entirely valid boast, undoubtedly key to the uplifting quality of all the dishes he offers. The FF loved his curry, and applauded the deboning of his skate and the succulence of its accompaniments. Mr P ordered veal sweetbreads under the impression that they were brains (thinking, perhaps, that they might help in deferring the ultimate onset of dementia). The small, unfamiliar organ was served with pig’s head cromesqui – crunchy breaded balls with soft melting centres – and all astonishingly delicious. The FF corrected Mr P’s understanding of sweetbreads, explaining that they were in fact, calf’s pancreas, whatever that is. They thoroughly deserved this euphemistic alias.

Mr P, having failed to insert his snout into the Bosi trough at Bibendum, thought a more than satisfactory substitute would be to visit the other former supreme Ludlow chef in his less extravagantly priced Walnut Tree.

For his main course, Mr P selected Middle White pork loin with confit belly and celeriac. He is a fan of Middle White meat, as produced by Mr Vaughan at Huntsham Court not far away, and Shaun Hill’s kitchen had made the best possible use of this special pork. It was sublime and faultless. A shared hazelnut and fig tart with honey ice cream slightly disappointingly crowned the otherwise wonderful experience.

The LC being otherwise engaged, he invited a less lovely but affable old friend whom he knew to be a demanding and Fussy Foodie. Indeed, a decade ago, Mr P had invited the FF to assist him in reviewing the Rhydspence Inn. Mr P quotes from his Guide to Eating in the Kingdom of Hay-on-Wye:

Mr P and his guest drank from a good modest house wine list – a Slovenian Pinot Grigio and a Sicilian Nero d’Avola. More extravagant wines are available, and Mr P looks forward to trying some when he returns with the LC, who was less than gruntled about missing this treat.

Imagine Mr P’s distress and the FF’s apoplexy when their soufflés arrived, lukewarm on the outside and frozen solid inside, like some bizarre, cutting-edge Heston Blumenthal ice-cream. It was unthinkable that this place was striking out into such dangerous territory, and it had to be assumed that

The FF found no fault with the food but grumbled a little about the uncomfortableness of the light chairs and the smallness of the tables, while Mr P rued the lack of napery. But these were very minor distractions from the real joy of eating at the Walnut Tree. Mr Pernickety - info@misterpermickety.com

EVENTS

Fri 11 - Sun 13 February VALENTINE’S ALE MASSACRE 10th Annual Beer Festival, with comedy, cabaret and music, plus 20+ beers. Ludlow Brewing Co, Fri & Sat 6pm, Sun 5pm, 01584 873291, www.ludlowbrewery.co.uk Sat 12 February CUPID’S BALL Bring your beau for a 3-course meal accompanied by Peach Bellini cocktails. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £55 per couple, 01497 821762. Fri 18 February SHROPSHIRE LAMB SUPPER Meet Centre Manager, Grant, as he cooks up a storm in the kitchen. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, £20 per person, booking essential, 01588 676060. Tues 22 February BAO TO THE BROTH Japanese cuisine pop up event. Secret Garden, Coldwells Rd, Hereford, 6-9pm, please book, 07389 766816, bookings@secretgardenhereford.co.uk Fri 11 March BRITISH GROWN TEA TASTING With introductions from tea growers and tea inspired canapes served throughout the evening. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 7pm, £25, 01531 248743, www.potandpage.co.uk Every Saturday LUDLOW COUNTRY MARKET 9am-12pm at The Womens Centre, Ludlow. Local produce, handicrafts, plants & veg, cut flowers, cards. First Saturday of every month (except August) FARMER’S MARKET Produce, craft, gifts, kitchen cafe open. Eaton Bishop Village Hall, 10am-12pm. First Saturday of every month PRESTEIGNE LOCAL FOOD MARKET Memorial Hall Presteigne, 9am-1pm. The best collection of artisan food producers in the area. 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month KNIGHTON COMMUNITY MARKET Knighton Community Centre, 9.30am-12.30pm, 07751 221487. 2nd Saturday of every month LEOMINSTER FARMER’S MARKET Corn Square, 9am-1pm, 01568 797427. Third Saturday of every month PRODUCE MARKET Hightown Community Rooms, Vicarage Rd. Clun, 10.00am - 12.00pm. 01588 641180. Third Saturday of every month FARMER’S MARKET Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 9am-1pm, 01588 630023. First Thursday EVENING FARMER’S MARKET The Barn, Ledbury, HR8 1EA, 6-8pm. www.ledburyfoodgroup.org Every Thursday MONTGOMERY TOWN MARKET Regular stalls on the lower floor. First Thurs of the month, using both floors with community cafe. Open 9am-3pm, www.montgomery-wales.co.uk/market 07790 100462. Every Thursday HAY MARKET DAY Local produce, meat and fish, hot food, artisan bread, cakes, crafts, vintage, plants. Memorial Square and Clock Tower, Hay-on-Wye, 9am-2.30pm, www.haymarkets.co.uk

Every 2nd & 4th Thursday LUDLOW LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET Castle Square, 9am-2pm, 01584 872043. Every Friday KINGTON PRODUCE/CRAFTS MARKET Market Hall, Kington, 9am-1pm, 07867 483135.

FOOD BYTES AARDVARK BOOKS LTD, THE BOOKERY, MANOR FARM, BRAMPTON BRYAN, BUCKNELL 01547 530888 Cafe serving refreshments, cakes etc. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. BLEDDFA CENTRE READING ROOM CAFE 01547 550377 (11am – 4pm every Thurs - Sun). Teas, coffees, cake and soup. www.bleddfacentre.org 01547 550377 hello@bleddfacentre.org THE GREEN BEAN CAFE, WEOBLEY 01544 318865 Good, locally sourced, homemade food. Soups, all day light lunches, cakes and scones. Set in the heart of Weobley. Free wifi. Tues-Sat 9.30am-3pm. With The Green Bean Shop/Deli under the same roof. THE ORGASMIC CIDER COMPANY, GREAT PARTON, EARDISLEY, HEREFORDSHIRE, HR3 6NX 01544 327244 or 07773 037448 Craft cider and perry off licence and gift shop with local products. Open Friday and Saturday 12 to 5pm. Group tours available. PLANTASTIK cic, 15 WEST ST, LEOMINSTER’s new cafe serving plant-based food from supermarket waste produce. Open Fridays and Saturdays 10am-3pm. Lunches from 11am, cakes, drinks, vegan pastries from Alex Gooch on Fridays. Run by volunteers. plantastik@myphone.coop POT & PAGE, 8 NEW STREET, LEDBURY HR8 2DX 01531 248743 Bookshop, vegan eatery and events. Family run plant based eatery, serving wholesome home cooked food with an emphasis on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Open Wed-Sun. RHOS MARKET GARDEN, KNIGHTON 01547 528315 Growers & providers of organic veg, fruit & flowers. Eco cleaning products & refills. Large range of groceries & wholefoods. The Old Garage Shop Knighton LD7 1EN. Wed. - Fri. 9 - 4, Sat. 10 - 2. Free parking. Thursday morning market stall in Presteigne. Local deliveries of veg. boxes. info@rhosorganic.co.uk www.rhosorganic.co.uk RUTH WATSON RESTAURANTEUR AND PRIVATE COOK. Bespoke Food for all Occasions. Parties, special occasions, holiday home catering, pop-up food. Friendly personal service. Ring or email: 01544 350559/ 07870 752325. ruthwatsonfood@gmail.com ST. MICHAEL’S HOSPICE COFFEE & BOOKS, UNIT 6-8 STATION YARD, LEOMINSTER, HR6 8TN (near Hintons). Large range of specialist and fiction books, maps, CDs, DVDs, vinyl and sheet music. Local coffee, light meals, homemade soup, cakes and scones. Open 9am-4pm, free parking. THE WORKHOUSE CAFE, INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, PRESTEIGNE 01544 267864 Cafe, gallery, light lunches, good coffee, homemade cakes. Wed-Sat 10am - 4pm.

music

FEBRUARY Tues 1 February ALBERT LOVES JAM NIGHT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. DRAGON BAND The Montgomery Town Hall, Broad St, Montgomery, 8pm, 07831 383636.

Wed 2 February

WILD FRUIT DJ. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

Thurs 3 February THE RED BSTARDS + HOMECOMING UK No nonsense punk rock band. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm, 01743 241124. ARTIST MARKET & CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, free. ALMELEY STEADY SESSION The Bells Inn, Almeley, near Kington, www.almeleysteadysession.wordpress. com

Fri 4 February MOJAM Acoustic pop thru’ the ages with looped guitar and harmony vocals. Lupa, 37 Bewell St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

BDS SILVA SHIVA DJ set. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, £2 advance, £3 on the door.

THE TENBAGS + THE DROOGS Crusty punk Troubadours playing binfire ballads. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. JAZZ JAM Play, listen, sing. With house band, A Touch of Jazz. West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 8pm, £2.50, 07583 410254. BAREBACKS The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. AFTER IMAGE Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. ACOUSTIC SESSIONS Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster. MARK LATIMER & TREV DAVIES TRIO Chequers, Etnam St, Leominster.

Sat 5 February KRAFTY KUTS & ASKILLZ DJ and street food from The Lodger. The Shack Revolution, Union St, Hereford, 5-12pm, www.theshackrevolution.co.uk XL5 Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. THE GOLD ROOM The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. LIVE MUSIC Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford.

THE WORDS Covers band. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. REMI HARRIS & TOM MOORE Acclaimed guitarist Remi Harris and double bassist Tom Moore present an evening music ranging from the acoustic jazz of the 30s and 40s to the electric blues of the 60s and 70s, influenced by such greats as Django Reinhardt, Peter Green, Wes Montgomery, Jimi Hendrix and more. Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 8pm, £12 from The Workhouse, Presteigne (cash only) and wegottickets.com CLARE TEAL TRIO Award-winning jazz singer and her trio featuring songs from the Great American and British Song books. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26.50, 01743 281281. THE BAREBACKS Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. KEITH JAMES: A CONCERT FOR A CHANGING WORLD Unique and timeless songs of vision, question and change. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, £12, 01497 821762. GREEN/MATTHEWS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF MUSIC Encompassing 600 years of musical history in a fun, fast moving show featuring long forgotten songs and jokes. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £13, students £8, 07967 517125. Arts Alive.

Sun 6 February

Tim Edey

OPEN MIC Hosted by Mark Richards. The Castle Inn, Wigmore, 4-7pm. Please pre-book your slot, email markianrichards@ hotmail.com

Fri 11 February

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124.

FOLK AT THE FALCON Double bill. Featuring Monkwood and Steve and Julie Wigley. Falcon Hotel, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £10, 07726 462220.

CHORAL EVENSONG Leominster Priory, 4.30pm.

Mon 7 February BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01584 711480. Please bring your own drinks/glasses. CIDER CITY JAZZMEN The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford, 01432 274968.

Tues 8 February ALBERT LOVES JAM NIGHT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124.

Wed 9 February WILD FRUIT DJ. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124.

TIM EDEY Multi-instrumentalist and singer playing Celtic/contemporary roots music. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

ARIEL LANYI Piano concert. Programme includes Schumann, Albeniz and Beethoven. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01584 878141.

Thurs 10 February JON BODEN & THE REMNANT KINGS Traditional folk artist, but one whose repertoire extends far beyond the boundaries of the genre. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 8pm, 01584 811442.

DOCTOR’S ORDERS The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. LIVE MUSIC Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. CANDY MOUNTAIN Blues, followed by DJ, Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, £2 in advance, £3 on the door.

Monkwood

SPOKEN WORD OPEN MIC Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, free. LF + SUPPORT Upbeat indie groove. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm, 01743 241124.

Langstaffe Violins John Langstaffe

Maker & Restorer of Violins, Violas & Cellos

Repairs, Fitting Up, Tonal Adjustments Bow Repairs etc

PEMBRIDGE M: 07901 064875

www.langstaffe-violins.co.uk

Trevor Davies Music

For all your musical needs 87 Etnam Street, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8AE tel: 01568 613611

We stock Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, ESP, Fernandez, Epiphone, Indie, Aria, Ovation, Adamas, Martin, Taylor, Yamaha, Crafter, Burns, Washburn, Jackson, AER, Marshall, Hartke, Carlsbro, Laney, Zoom, Digitech, Tama, Casio. Plus many other brands. Approximately 500 guitars in stock and Brass, Woodwind, Drums, Keyboards, accessories and thousands of music books and sheet music.

1959: The Golden Years of Jazz, Neil Maya Quartet

SKABURST Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. TOUCH TOO MUCH Five-piece rock. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. INTO THE SHADOWS Recreating the original sound of The Shadows. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £19.50, 01743 281281. CUPID’S BALL Bring your beau for a 3-course meal accompanied by Peach Bellini cocktails. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £55 per couple, 01497 821762. OH WHAT A NIGHT! A musical journey through the career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 718401. NEIL MAYA QUARTET: 1959 1959 is often considered an extremely influential year for jazz with some of the finest jazz albums ever released. Cawley Hall, Eye, 7.30pm, £12, 01568 615836. Arts Alive.

Fri 11 February FUN CHARITY QUIZ West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 8pm, £2.50, 07583 410254. VALENTINE’S ALE MASSACRE 10th Annual Beer Festival with over 20+ beers. Comedy & Cabaret, featuring Noel James, Ryan Gough, Paul Jennings and The Wicked Wenches. (Ludlow Fringe). Ludlow Brewery, 7.30pm, £10, 01584 873291, www.ludlowbrewery.co.uk JACK GOODALL + SUPPORT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. THE ORIGINAL WANTED Classic rock covers. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340.

CREDENHILL OPEN MIC NIGHT Credenhill Social Club, Hereford, 7.30pm, martinchapple1@gmail.com LIVE MUSIC Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford. TRIGGER Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. ETERNITY ROAD The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. VALENTINE’S ALE MASSACRE 10th Annual Beer Festival with over 20+ beers. Plus live music featuring Don’t Feed The Goat, a ska/punk band from Ludlow. Ludlow Brewery, 7.30pm, £10, 01584 873291, www.ludlowbrewery. co.uk

Sun 13 February THE RHYTHM MACHINE Richmond Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3-5pm, 01432 270211, free. INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. THE SOUND OF SPRINGSTEEN Eight-piece band playing all Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26-£24, 01743 281281. THE LUDLOW JAZZ COLLECTIVE The Cliffe at Dinham, Ludlow, SY8 2JE, 12.30-3pm, 01584 872063.

NEIL MAYA QUARTET: 1959 1959 is often considered an extremely influential year for jazz with some of the finest jazz albums ever released. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575. Arts Alive.

Sat 12 February GREEN/MATTHEWS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF MUSIC Encompassing 600 years of musical history in a fun, fast moving show featuring long forgotten songs and jokes. Brilley Village Hall, 7.30pm, £12, 01544 327227. Arts Alive.

Green/Matthews, A Brief History of Music - 5 & 12 Feb

Tues 15 February LLOYD COLE Performing music from his entire back catalogue. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01743 281281. ALBERT LOVES JAM NIGHT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN ‘Under the Influence’ Peter Donohoe - piano. Programme includes Ravel and Vaughan Williams. The Courtyard, free pre-concert talk 6.45pm, concert 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Dan Haynes - Songwriters

Wed 16 February WILD FRUIT DJ. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

Thurs 17 February THE DOLLY SHOW Dolly Parton tribute. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 014332 340555.

Fri 18 February ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW Relive the biggest rock classic anthems performed live. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. THE INSTITUTIONS Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. OVER THE MOON The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. THE BREAKS 7-piece band followed by DJ. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, £5 in advance, £6 on the door. THOMAS ATLAS Funk, blues and soul fusion. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. OPEN MIC & BLUES JAM The Rose and Crown, Ludlow, 8pm. Hosted by Mark Richards, please prebook your slot marianrichards@hotmail. com

SONIC BOOM Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm,01952 929340. HITS OF MOTOWN Original Drifters member Roy G Hemmings brings together the sound of iconic Motown Labels. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24.50, 01743 281281. DAN HAYES Songwriters (18+). A stunning acoustic performance of music from songwriting legends and contemporary icons. Wem Town Hall, 8pm, £13/£11, 01939 232299. Arts Alive. MAX BOYCE Painting pictures in word and song. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 19 February JOHN WILKS Midlands Tradfolk. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 8pm, £12, 01588 630023. BREAK THE RECORD Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

Mark Lockheart - Dreamers Shrewsbury Jazz Network

THE MEADOWS + PAUL LLOYD NICHOLAS The Meadows are a vibrant multiinstrumentalist Celtic-Crossover folk band. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, £8, 01497 821621. RUBBLE Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. GOOD TO GO The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. LUCAS D & THE GROOVE GHETTO 6-piece soul funk jazz outfit. Raising money for Ludlow Fringe Festival. Ludlow Brewery, 7.30pm, £10 from the brewery, 01584 873291, www.ludlowbrewery.co.uk WINGWALKERS Motown. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. SOUNDS OF WALES Featuring The South Wales Male Choir alongside local singer/songwriter Emma Linney and poet Michael Carding. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, £22-£18.50, 01743 281281. ANDY FAIRWEATHER LOW One of the greats of the Welsh music scene. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £23, 01600 772467. HAY MUSIC: JAYSON GILLHAM - PIANO A programme of Bach Transcriptions by Busoni, Gounod, Kempff, Liszt, Rachmaninov, Siloti and Hess. A preview of Jayson’s forthcoming recital at St Martin-in-the-Fields later this month.3.30pm - St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye. Tickets (£12.50) and more information at www.haymusic.org MARK LOCKHEART - DREAMERS Saxophonist Mark Lockheart explores his multi-faceted outlook on music through a new set of original compositions. The Hive, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £23, £12 under 22s, 01743 234970. Shrewsbury Jazz Network.

BROKEN GROUND Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free.

Legend - The Music of Bob Marley

ALEX P DJ. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, £8 in advance, £10 on the door. 60S BIG NIGHT OUT Featuring Tony Crane MBE with The Merseybeat and New Amen Corner. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £25, 01743 281281. SOCIAL IGNITION + BROKEN 3 WAYS 6-piece ska band. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

Sat 19 February

Thurs 24 February

THE GIRL FROM TIGER BAY: THE DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY STORY The ultimate ‘rags to riches’ tale. Featuring dancers, spectacular replica costumes and a sensational saxophonist. Using powerful live performance, narrative and footage. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

SONYA Well known songs across many genres. The Tilley Raven, Wem, 9pm.

Sun 20 February

HEX POSEUR + PLUTONIUM Garage rock/punk rock. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

SUNDAY SESSION Featuring tunes and songs from the step-dance traditions of Britain. Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 01568 720510. INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION DJ, karaoke. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. OPEN MIC Hosted by Mark Richards, please pre-book your slot markianrichards@ hotmail.com The White Swan, Eardisland, 4-7pm. FOREVER IN BLUE JEANS The best in Country music and Rock ‘n’ Roll performed by Carole Gordon with singers, dancers and musicians. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £22.50, 01743 281281.

Tues 22 February ALBERT LOVES JAM NIGHT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124.

Wed 23 February WILD FRUIT DJ. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

OPEN MIC Hosted by Val and Keith. All types of music welcome. Message to guarantee a slot, free drink for performers. Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 8.30pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

MIKE PLUNKETT Piano recital. Methodist Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 12.30pm. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

SEA POWER Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm, £19.50 in advance, £21.50 on the door, standing gig, 01743 281281. BLUZBOX The Vaults, Bishop’s Castle, 9pm, free. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com RAPSQUILLION On stage with folkie friends from the Welsh valleys. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, £8, 01588 630023. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Fri 25 February THE LUDLOW JAZZ COLLECTIVE The Cliffe at Dinham, Ludlow, SY8 2JE, 7-10pm, 01584 872063. DOMINO SUGAR 4-piece cover band. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. ROUGH NECKS The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. BALKAN CEILIDH Led by Rosa James, with live music from Bellamonda. No partners needed. Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, £6/£4.50, to book email suewillmer@ mac.com Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival. com

THE ELVIS YEARS The story of the King! Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, £23/£20, 01597 258118. LEGEND: THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY Combining his superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship and talented cast. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 26 February THE INCREDIBLE RHYTHM BAND The sounds of Santana, Tito Puente and other funky Latin grooves. Featuring Sticky Wicket, Peta Piper, Charlie ‘Carlos’ Mason, Geoff Grimes, Geoff Ockenden, Ted Bunting and from Brazil, Alex Magni. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 8pm, £12, students £8, 01588 630321. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com INDIGO MACHIINE Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. THE ELVIS YEARS Expect the classics. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26.50, 01743 281281. RUDE SIZ Bristol reggae and ska band. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 5pm, £6 in advance, £7 on the door. DAVID BUSBY The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. SHROPSHIRE KIDS FESTIVAL For ages 0-14, obstacle course, inflatables, giant games, dancing, space hoppers, have-a-go music tent, go karts, STEM activities, arts, crafts, baking sessions, circus skills, martial arts, football arena, golf skills, mini ice rink and much more. International Centre, Telford, www.shropshirekidsfest. co.uk NAMELESS Covers. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340.

REMI HARRIS Acclaimed guitarist Remi and his band present an eclectic mix of music from the acoustic jazz of the 30’s and 40’s to the blues of the 60’s and 70’s. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 8pm, £14, students £8, 07967 517125.

Blazin’ Fiddles

PHOENIX The Secret Garden, Coldwells Rd, Hereford, 07389 766816, email bookings@secretgardenhereford.co.uk WIRED Gordon Bennetts, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 9pm, 01432 360250, free. STICKY WICKET & LATIN BEATS Join Sticky, Peta Piper and special guest Alix Magni to explore Salsa, Samba, Rumba and Bosanova. Join in or listen and enjoy, all welcome. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, free with donations to Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, 01588 630321. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Sun 27 February SHROPSHIRE KIDS FESTIVAL See 26 Feb for details. www.shropshirekidsfest.co.uk BLAZIN’ FIDDLES Encompassing a rare selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and Island voices. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £22, 01743 281281. INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION DJ, karaoke. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. HR4K OPEN MIC NIGHT HR4K Unit 12a, Thorn Business Park, Hereford, 7.30pm, martinchapple1@ gmail.com OPERA BOYS Featuring the biggest songs from the West End and Broadway. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £21.50, 01743 281281. JAZZ MUSIC EVENT Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, 01588 630023.

Mon 28 February THE FUREYS Legends of Irish music and song. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £23.50, 01584 811442.

MARCH Tues 1 March ALBERT LOVES JAM NIGHT Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124.

Wed 2 March WILD FRUIT DJ. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124.

Thurs 3 March ALMELEY STEADY SESSION The Bells Inn, Almeley, near Kington, www.almeleysteadysession.wordpress. com

Fri 4 March MAX BOYCE Don’t miss out on the unique experience of seeing Max Boyce live in concert, and being able to say, “I was there!” Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS Rock ‘n’ roll. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. RHYTHM THIEVES The Chindit, 113 Merridale Rd, Wolverhampton, 8.30pm. PENNY FAMOUS + THE MUDAS Indie/punk. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. POP UP PIANO BAR Featuring Will Blake. Tapas and tunes! The Secret Garden, Coldwells Rd, Hereford, please book, email bookings@secretgardenhereford.co.uk MARK LATIMER & TREV DAVIES TRIO Chequers, Etnam St, Leominster.

Sat 5 March BLUES BROTHERS The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, 8pm, £15, 01432 357753. ABSOLUTE BOWIE Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, £15 + fees, 01597 258118. TREE HOUSE FIRE + SUPPORT 5-piece rock-reggae. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, 01743 241124. CONTRABAND The Bull Inn, Shrewsbury. FAUSTUS + SUPPORT Knighton & District Community Centre, 7pm, £15 in advance, £18 on the door, 07751 221487 and WeGotTickets.com

EGO FRIENDLY Indie/rock/pop. Albert’s Shed, Southwater Way, Telford, 9pm, 01952 929340. HELLS BELLS AC/DC tribute band. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 718401.

Sun 6 March WEDDING FAYRE The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 11am-3pm, 01497 821762. INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION DJ, karaoke. Albert’s Shed, 8 Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 01743 241124. OPEN MIC Hosted by Mark Richards. The Castle Inn, Wigmore, 4-7pm. Please pre-book your slot, email markianrichards@ hotmail.com CHORAL EVENSONG Leominster Priory, 4.30pm.

Mon 7 March BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01584 711480. Please bring your own drinks/glasses. CIDER CITY JAZZMEN The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford, 01432 274968.

Music Workshops Mon 21 - Fri 25 February LIVEWIRE Encore’s half term project Central is back. Young musicians will play with like-minded musicians, create their own parts, perform on each other’s songs, capped off with a gig at Hereford’s Speakeasy. For ages 11-21. Castle Green Pavilion, Hereford, further details email lisa@encore-enterprises.com Sat 26 February SINGING WORKSHOP With Rapsquillion. The Methodist Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 10.30am-12.30pm, free, donations invited. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com

Sat 26 February BORDER MARCHES EARLY MUSIC FORUM An in-person workshop for singers. ‘An Emerald in a Work of Gold’ - Music from the Dow Partbooks, with tutor Rory McCleery. Grange Court, Leominster, 10am-4.30pm, booking essential, contact ellen.sarewitz@cantab.net or www.bmemf.org.uk Monday BRECON TOWN BAND REHEARSALS Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 07779 390954. Monday THE GARRICK SINGERS For over 60s. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm. £5 per session, 01432 340555. Mondays ALIVE & KICKIN’ CHOIR Old Muse, Glamorgan St, Brecon, 7-9pm, £5 public, £3 students/staff. tanyawalkermusic@hotmail.com Mondays CRAVEN ARMS MALE VOICE CHOIR All ages welcome singing a broad repertoire of traditional and modern songs. Practice at The Craven Arms Community Centre, 7.30pm. Martin on 01694 722500. Monday BANDAMANIA Bright and breezy traditional and original music.Youth Centre, Presteigne. Mondays at 7pm, Sue Harris 01547 550158 Monday GARRICK SINGERS For over 55s, no prior knowledge or experience of singing. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3.30pm, £5 per session, email lisa@encore-enterprises.com. Tuesday DOLAU MIXTURES Mixed choir. Dolau Community Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, 01597 851427. Tuesday LUNCHTIME UPLIFT SINGING SESSIONS With Tanya Walker. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 12pm, 07723 016837.

Friday LITTLE HEREFORD VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR We are a non-audition choir formed 10 years ago with 25+ mixed voices. Rehearsing at Little Hereford Village Hall, 7.30pm- 9.15pm. Subscriptions £3.50 per session paid termly, first trial session free. Broad repertoire (usually 3 & 4 parts) – all welcome. More info: term dates etc: lhvoices. wix.com/home Facebook: @LittleHerefordVoices Friday BUZZY BEATS! A fun music filled morning for the under 5s. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 10.30am11.30am, £7, 01743 234970. Friday CRAVEN ARMS SAMBA CIRCLE Craven Arms Community Centre. 4.15pm - 5.45pm. Traditional drum rhythms and fun drumming activities. All ages, including accompanied children, welcome. Adults £5 (+ child £1, second child free). Enquiries carol@mkgriffs.plus.com Friday FAMILY MUSIC MAKERS Fun sessions for parents and toddlers 12.30-2pm, £4 per adult and child pair, under 1s free. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Sessions

First Saturday OPEN MIC Greyhound Inn, Llangunllo, 8.30pm, 01547 550400. First Saturday FOLK & IRISH SESSION Harp Inn, Glasbury-on-Wye, 8.30pm, free, 01497 847373. First Saturday of month PICKIN’ AT THE BIRD The Bird in Hand, Coton Hill, Shrewsbury, 01743 357484, 9pm.

Tuesdays SAMBA BRECON Sue on 07792 165481 or Gill on 01497 821631. 7-9pm, VH, near Brecon.

3rd Saturday OPEN MUSIC SESSION Harp Inn, Glasbury-on-Wye, 8.30pm, free, 01497 847373.

Tuesday LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CHOIR Choir leader: Olivia Preye. No auditions, no need to read music. World, folk music, and more. 7-8.30pm at Leominster Community Centre. 01568 369074.

Every Sunday FOLK/ACOUSTIC SESSION The Crown & Anchor, Llanidloes, 8pm. 2nd and 4th Sunday FOLK SESSION Arvon Ale House, Temple St, Llandrindod Wells, 4pm, 07477 627267.

Tuesday WHITTON VOICES Mixed community choir. Traditional, world and original songs. Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm. Call Sue Harris 01547 550158.

3rd Sunday ACOUSTIC SESSION Arvon Ale House, Temple St, Llandrindod Wells, 4pm, 07477 627267.

Wednesdays CASTLE VOICES Community choir, songs from around the globe. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm. Sue Harris 01547 550158. Wednesday ROCKSPRING COMMUNITY CHOIR All welcome particularly men! Minimal charge. Rockspring Community Centre, Ludlow. 01584 529053. Wednesday LUDLOW LARKS COMMUNITY CHOIR Led by Polly Bolton. Songs from around the world. Ludlow Women’s Centre, 7.30pm-9.30pm. 01584 823609 or info@oak-barn.co.uk or www.jollypages.co.uk/larks Thursday EDGE CHAMBER CHOIR Auditioned chamber choir led by Ros Crouch. Friends Meeting House, Ludlow, 7.30-9.30pm. 01584 841053 or ros.crouch@gmail.com Thursday CLUN SINGERS Informal community choir, traditional and original songs taught by ear. 10am in High Town Hall, Clun. Sue Harris 01547 550158. Thursday BELLA A CAPPELLA All-female 4-part close harmony singing group. Oscars, Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 7.15-9.45pm, email aimoevo@hotmail.co.uk Thursday PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183, john@johnhymas.com

First Thursdays BLACK HILL TUNE CLUB 2pm at the Crown Inn Longtown. Free. 01432 263495.

Thursday CANTORION LLANDRINDOD A non auditioned mixed voice choir early and classical music. Rehearsals currently in Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells. 7.459.15pm. 01597 810601, www.cantorion-llandrindod.org

3rd Sunday FOLK SESSION The Monkland Arms, 7.30pm, 01568 720510. Last Sunday OPEN MIC Volunteer Inn, Harold St, Hereford, 7.30pm, martinchapple1@gmail.com Every Monday OPEN MIC NIGHT Bull Inn, Shrewsbury, 01743 344728. First Monday BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB 01584 711480 and the website at www.roger435.wixsite.com/brimfieldfolkclub 1st Monday AMERICANA SESSION The Grape Vaults, Leominster, 01568 611404. 2nd Monday JAM SESSION The Barley Mow, Trefonen, 7.30pm, 07751 420796. Every Tuesday PLAYING TOGETHER An interactive, intergenerational play session for older adults and pre-school children. The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am, 01432 340555. Every Tuesday (term time only) LIVEWIRE Drop-in for anybody interested in music. For ages 11-21. The Castle Green Pavilion, Hereford, 5.30pm-7.30pm, details lisa@encore-enterprises.com Every Tuesday OPEN MIC King Charles II, Broad St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, 01989 219357. Every Tuesday OPEN MIC The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 821762.

Every Tuesday OPEN MIC Run by Moz, PA provided, all welcome. Castle Vaults, Shrewsbury. Every Tuesday TUESDAY JAM SESSION The Falcon Hotel, Bromyard, 8-11pm, 01885 483034. Every Wednesday MUSIC CAFE FOR ARMED FORCES VETERANS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA Orchestra of the Swan’s Cafe Muse until December. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am-3pm, free, and £7.50 from January, 01432 340555. Every Wednesday ACOUSTIC NIGHT Baskerville Hall Hotel, near Hay-on-Wye, 8.30pm, 01497 820033. 1st and 3rd Wednesday DRAGON BAND 8-10.30pm, The Montgomery Town Hall, Broad St., Montgomery, SY15 6PH. Local free car parking and nearby Hotel for food or drink. Free admission but £5 donation gratefully received. Jeff Matthews - 07831 383636. Every Wednesday ACOUSTIC SESSION Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 8.45pm, 01531 632250. 1st Wednesday HEREFORD BLUEGRASS SESSION The Old Brewery Bar, The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford, 8pm. 2nd Wednesday ACOUSTIC SESSION The Red Lion, Llanidloes, 8.30pm. 2nd Wednesday MARTIN’S MUSIC Open mic from 7pm. Babar Cafe, Union St, Hereford, martinchapple1@gmail.com 2nd Wednesday OPEN MIC White Horse Inn, Clun, 8.30pm onwards. 01588 640305. 2nd & 4th Wednesday TELFORD ACOUSTIC CLUB The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 9pm, 01952 610888. 3rd Wednesday JAM SESSION The Unicorn, Oswestry, 7.30pm, 07751 420796. 4th Wednesday AMERICAN SESSION Press Rooms, Leominster, 8pm, christopher.andrews42@gmail.com Every Thursday & Friday A CLOCKWORK ORANGE TREE Open mic, 7pm. The Orange Tree, 16 King St, Hereford. Every Thursday OPEN MIC Bridge Inn, Michaelchurch Escley, 7-8pm, 01981 510646. Every Thursday OPEN MUSIC SESSION Nat and Delia present Duke Joint Jam. Oxford Arms, Kington, 6.30pm, all welcome, 01544 230322. Every Thursday SESSION Black Swan, Much Dewchurch, 01981 540295. 1st Thursday KINGTON FOLK Traditional folk club set-up, no guests, performers welcome. Back room of the Oxford Arms, Duke St, Kington, 7.30pm, free. Contact Dave Mullin 07866 177669 or email davemullin@hotmail.com 2nd Thursday OPEN MIC Hosted by Stevie Yeomans. Castle Inn, Knucklas, near Knighton, 8pm, 01547 528150. 2nd Thursday OPEN FOLK SESSION Horse & Jockey, Churchstoke, 8.30pm, all welcome, free, 01588 620060. 3rd Thursday FOLK DOWN THE TRACK Castle Inn, Knucklas, 7pm, 01547 528223 or 01547 528150. 4th Thurs OPEN MIC The Barley Mow, Trefonen, 7.30pm, 07751 420796 to book your slot. 1st Friday ACOUSTIC SESSION The Blue Boar, Mill St, Ludlow, 8:30pm. Contact: Ann Gray 01584 879 348. 3rd Friday OPEN MIC NIGHT The Herb Garden Community Cafe, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 01597 823082. Last Friday OPEN MIC NIGHT With Mark from the Rhythm Thieves. Sun Inn, Leintwardine, 8.30pm, 01568 770134.

VENUES ALBERT HALL, Ithon Rd, Llandrindod Wells 0333 666 3366 ASSEMBLY ROOMS, Mill Street, Ludlow 01584 878141 BARRELS, St Owen Street, Hereford 01432 274968 BASKERVILLE ARMS, Clyro, near Hay-on-Wye 01497 820670. BASKERVILLE HALL HOTEL, Clyro Court, near Hay-on-Wye 01497 820033. BELL HOTEL, Commercial St, Newtown 01686 625540 BELL INN, Etnam St, Leominster 01568 616811 THE BRIDGE HOTEL, Tenbury Wells 01584 810434 THE BRIDGE, Ludlow 01584 872963 BLACK LION, Bridge St, Hereford, 01432 266000 CARAD, East St, Rhayader, 01597 810192 CENTRE CELF, Tremont Rd, Llandrindod Wells 01597 822777 CHARLTON ARMS, Ludlow, 01584 872813 THE CLIFFE AT DINHAM, Halton Lane, Ludlow 01584 872063 CONQUEST THEATRE, Bromyard, 01885 488575 THE COURTYARD, Edgar St, Hereford. 01432 340555 THE DUKES ARMS, Presteigne 01544 267318 DUN COW, Shrewsbury 01743 356408 THE EXCHANGE, Newtown 01686 621814. GLEANINGS, near Bishop’s Castle, 01743 891412 THE GLOBE AT HAY, Hay-on-Wye 01497 821762 THE GOLDEN CROSS INN, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford 01432 880274. GORDON BENNETTS BAR, St Peter’s Square, Hereford, 01432 360250. GRAPE VAULTS, Broad St, Leominster 01568 611404. THE HARP INN, Glasbury-on-Wye 01497 847373 THE HERDSMAN, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 01432 277330 HOPE & ANCHOR, Rope Walk, Wye St, Ross-on-Wye. 01989 563003. HUNDRED HOUSE INN, Purslow, 01588 660541 KNIGHTON & DISTRICT COMMUNITY CENTRE, Knighton 07751 221487. THE LAKESIDE CAFÉ, Llandrindod Wells, 01597 825679 LICHFIELD VAULTS, Church St, Hereford. 01432 266821 LION BALLROOM, Broad St, Leominster. 01568 612277 LUDLOW BREWING COMPANY, The Railway Shed, Ludlow 01584 873291 THE MALTHOUSE, Ironbridge, 01952 433712 MINER’S ARMS, Priest Weston 01938 561352 NELSON INN, Ludlow 01584 872908 OAKENGATES THEATRE, Telford. 01952 619020 THE OLD MILL, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 412008 THE OXFORD ARMS, Duke St, Kington 01544 230322 PAVILION MID WALES, Llandrindod Wells 01597 258118 THE PLOUGH INN, Whitecross Road, Hereford 01432 358867 REET PETITE, 18 West St, Leominster 07484 545368. ROSE & CROWN, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811336 ROYAL FOUNTAIN, Cleobury Mortimer 01299 272720 THEATR BRYCHEINIOG, Canal Wharf, Brecon 01874 611622 THE HAFREN, Llanidloes Road, Newtown 01686 614555 THE TOWN HALL, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630023 THREE TUNS, Bishop’s Castle. 01588 638797 THE VICTORY, 88 St Owen St, Hereford 01432 274998 VOLUNTEER, Harold St, Hereford 01432 276189. WHITEHORSE INN, The Square, Clun. 01588 640305. WHITE SWAN, Eardisland, 01544 388577 WYESIDE ARTS CENTRE, Builth Wells, 01982 552555

band directory ADD A BAND - Real instrument backing to your own music. Perfect for singer songwriters etc. Studio near Newtown. www.addaband.co.uk, 07515 401635. ANIMAL Solo entertainer, piano/vocals, harmonica, mixed music. Also session player on drums. Experienced TV, theatre, cruises, holiday parks, radio, concerts, Britain’s Got Talent 2012. Backed Stella Parton, Tommy Cash, Screaming Lord Sutch, Dr Feelgood, Wishbone Ash, Ruby Murry. To book please phone Paul 0751 484 7966. APPLEBY STONE Live acoustic duo/trio, guitar, flute, saxophones, voices, double bass, jazz, folk, R&B, pop, many originals, perfect for private and public events. applebystone.com 07979 542 449. BANDAMANIA Community band playing wild and wonderful traditional music. Perfect for ceilidhs, parties and all sorts of local events. Sue Harris 01547 550158 sumarieharris@btinternet.com BEST FOOT CEILIDH BAND The hottest dance band on the borders + caller. Available for weddings, barn dances and parties. Contact: 07969 440183 or john@johnhymas. com

sheep

BROAD

Band Directory ONLY £40 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

Just post the details of your band (around 40 words) with a cheque for £40 payable to Broad Sheep and post to: The Lodge, Westhide, Hereford, HR1 3RQ

Just call Clare on 01432 850444 or email: info@broadsheep.com DON’T FORGET... if you have any gigs in the area, email/phone by the 15th of the preceding month for FREE LISTINGS.

BIG MAGIC DANCE BAND 10-piece jive/R & R group. ‘Does what it says on the tin!’ Parties/festivals/happenings/weddings etc. Call Eddy on 01691 648729 or 07796 148448. Web: eddygartry.com Email: w.gartry@hotmail. com Management also for The Werewolves of Powys and Blues State UK THE CHICAGO SWING KATZ - New Orleans Blues to Chicago Swing. 6/7 Piece band playing foot-tapping, fun music that will make you feel happy. Weddings, Birthdays, Corporate events, Festivals, even funerals - but book well in advance for those! Traditional Jazz Trios, Quartets also available. email: chicagoswingkatz@aol.com, www.thechicagoswingkatz.co.uk, Jeff Matthews 07831 383636 THE DRAGON BIG BAND - 14 musicians playing Basie, Ellington, and exclusive arrangements. Jazz to Swing to Latin. Trumpets, trombones, saxes, bass, guitar, keyboard, drums. We play every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, 8.00 - 10.30 at: The Montgomery Town Hall, Broad St., Montgomery, SY15 6PH. Local free car parking and nearby Hotel for food or drink. Free admission but £5 donation gratefully received. Available for weddings and events. Band enquiries: Jeff Matthews - 07831 383636. HOT CLIMATE Ultimate party band, best 6-piece line up ever. For top musical entertainment at your party/ wedding/festival or corporate function. Book now! New footage on www.hotclimate.co.uk. Contact Charlie 01568 613895 or mobile 07702 528088 anytime! LITTLE RUMBA This is a band that will entertain and delight any audience that has its wits about it and has an ear for beautiful melodies infectious beats and songs that tell stories. From Winchcombe Live “Absolutely fantastic evening from you guys tonight. We had so many positive comments from the audience; very gratifying! Great musical talent, great humour, variety, and warmth of performance.” Contact Jacqui Savage 07966 943314 Email – jaxbass.xs@btinternet.com http://www.littlerumba.com THE LUDLOW JAZZ COLLECTIVE Local Quartet/Quintet with singer if required, playing smooth sounds of well-known standards, Latin and blues. Available for all types of events and celebrations. Contact Paul Brooks 07980 822014. pppbrooks@gmail. com MELOMANICS A wacky, Shropshire-based Duo with an amazingly dynamic sound, playing their eclectic and cosmopolitan repertoire with engaging humour and infectious energy (sustainable). Far more than just great music. And stilts if appropriate. Find out how much fun a ceilidh can be with Tim calling and playing. Ideal for parties, weddings, fund-raising events, festivals, shows, pubs, restaurants, etc. Scottish, Irish and French-themed specialities (Timoléon pour vos soirées francaises). For more info call Tim on 01743 719438, or Rich on 01743 718612. Email: tim@melomanics.co.uk Website: www.melomanics.co.uk

The Rotundas

THE RAGTIME JUG ORCHESTRA A roots string-band (duo) recreating the sounds of the early 20th century America, playing a good-time mix of blues, skiffle and Americana music. We like to get audiences involved! Available for festival, events, parties, folk clubs, pubs and bars; performance presentations and workshops for all occasions too. Web: www.ragtimejug.co.uk Contact: John; 01594 861151. Email: info@ragtimejug.co.uk Facebook.com: ragtime jug orchestra. REVEREND FERRIDAY Upbeat One Man Blues Band. Playing driving slide guitar with rockabilly flair, seasoned with a touch of Americana, a mix of stomping originals and traditional classics. Available for all occasions, large or small. Contact the Reverend: 01584 711700 - 07766 185451 - revferriday@gmail.com - www.revferriday.com RHYTHM THIEVES Funky, folky and fun. Firm favourites at festivals, pubs, parties and events around the Midlands and beyond, Rhythm Thieves are a lively must-see band who deliver an unforgettable and highly entertaining night out. “Full of fire and enthusiasm” Mike Harding, BBC Radio 2 “Great, super, lovely - our resident band” Genevieve Tudor. BBC Radio Midlands Folk Show. “If they don’t make you smile, you’re probably dead.” Wheaton Aston Folk Festival Tel: 01568 770 134, e-mail rhythmthieves@hotmail.com THE ROTUNDAS are a pair of jolly chaps who sing and play contemporary versions of industrial and social folk songs from Birmingham and the Black Country. Listen on Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/therotundas and contact us at our Facebook page @TheRotundas or email therotundasband@gmail.com

SINGLED OUT Experienced, 3-piece band covering the best pop and rock music from the 50’s to the current era. We focus on great tunes that don’t usually get played by other bands, but which everyone will know. Of course, we do some of the more usual songs as well! www.singledoutband.com email: info@singledoutband. com Phone 07518 291 676. SIR DANCELOT 4/5 piece ceilidh/twmpath band. Far and away the best exponents of traditional dance music of the British Isles and beyond for miles around and leagues beneath. Concertina, mandolin, fiddles, whistles, cittern, jews harp... Available for weddings, parties and public events. For information and bookings, contact: Cornelius 01686 411147 corns@mousemusic. co.uk or Peter 07561 820509. www.sirdancelot.co.uk THE CHERRYSTONES are Aly (whistles, flute, accordion, vocals), Matt (bass, foot drum, vocals) and Dave (guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, vocals) who bring you a mix of original and traditional folk songs and tunes. From thoughtful, well-crafted songs to infectious uptempo Irish whistle tunes, we will warm your heart and stir your souls and soles! Contact : Dave 07817 220016, dgand2@btinternet.com. Find us here Facebook.com The Cherrystones. Website coming soon! THE VILLAGE QUIRE spine-tingling harmonies sung with all the emotional clout, subtlety of expression and love of life that you get when voices are raised together in song. Sensational vocals mingled with enthralling stories. Various shows to book. For bookings / further info ring 01497 847676 www.villagequire.org.uk / www.songsforsilas.org.uk WHISKEY RIVER is a 5/6 piece electric Americana band that play swamp blues, Cajun, Zydeco and good country music to set the dance floor rocking. To suit smaller venues and smaller budgets, pruned down acoustic versions of the band are available as “The Whiskey River Quartet”, “The Whiskey River Trio” or as a Duo [“The Whiskey River Boys”]. Laissez les bon temps rouler!! Contact Martin, phone: 07846 669890, 01432 342018. Email: martin@whiskeyriver.co.uk. Website: www.whiskeyriver.co.uk

SHRED BELLY Ludlow/Shropshire based acoustic duo, playing covers of popular ‘Dad’s Rock’ songs from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and more. Full band can also be available. All bookings and enquiries please contact: Kevin on 07873 426205 or Paul on 07957 247851. SILVER BRANCH (Ceilidh and Concert Band). CEILIDH BAND with caller. Available for weddings/ birthday parties/fund raisers, etc. For photos/videos please see our Facebook page. For further enquiries, ring David on 01981 540832 or Anna on 07980 961187. SILVER BRANCH (UN-CALLED FOR) - Five piece cutting edge instrumental Folk Band. Concerts/gigs. SIMON THE PIPER Highland Piper with 20 years experience. Available for all occasions - weddings, funerals, Burn’s Night, Hogmanay, festivals, processions etc. Based in Hereford. Call 07791 045831 or facebook. com/simonthepiper Email simonthepiper@hotmail.com The Cherrystones

theatre Mon 28 February - Tues 1 March DEAD GOOD Originally commissioned by London International Mime Festival, Dead Good is a funny and poignant theatre show celebrating friendship. This beautifully crafted production is performed entirely without words. Suitable for ages 12+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £18.50, under 25s £5, 01743 281281.

MUSICAL THEATRE & OPERA The Endling

PERFORMANCE Wed 2 - Fri 4 February MACBETH HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL’s production stays true to Shakespeare’s original play while exploring the psychological horror of Macbeths’ descent into madness and despair. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555. Mon 7 February CULT FIGURE: THE LIFE OF KENNETH WILLIAMS Colin Elmer returns with his one man show about the man and his life. Told entirely in his own words with anecdotes, stories and diary entries. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £16, 01600 772467. Mon 7 - Sat 12 February LOOKING GOOD DEAD The thrilling Roy Grace series from best-selling author Peter James. Starring Adam Woodyatt and Laurie Brett. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £36.50-£20.50, 01743 281281. Wed 16 February THE ENDLING STRANGE FUTURES use their powerful physicality to explore possible futures for the world. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 12 February THE ELEMENT IN THE ROOM: A RADIOACTIVE MUSICAL COMEDY ABOUT THE DEATH AND LIFE OF MARIE CURIE TANGRAM THEATRE COMPANY. A family show that will leave you in love with science, marvelling at Marie Curie and singing the songs! For ages 7+. Wem Town Hall, 3pm, £12/£5, 01939 232299. Arts Alive. Sat 5 March LA BOHEME MID WALES OPERA. From a student garret to the bustling streets of Montmartre, Puccini’s masterpiece celebrates the power of love and friendship. Hafren Theatre, Newtown, 7.30pm, £22, £19 & £16, 01686 614555.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE Wed 9 - Fri 11 February DEAR ZOO With lots of laughs and audience interaction, Dear Zoo is the perfect introduction to theatre for children aged 2 years+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 10.30am & 1.30pm, £15.50, children £13.50, nursery schools £11, 01743 281281.

Wed 16 - Sat 19 February WINTER HOLIDAY Directed for the stage by Chris Eldon-Lee this is the story Arthur Ransome fans love most ‘the greatest Swallows and Amazons book ever’. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 3pm & 7.30pm, £15, children £5, 01743 281281. Thurs 17 - Sat 19, Thurs 24 - Sat 26 February HI DE HI CONQUEST PRODUCTIONS. Hello Campers! A foot tapping, rib tickling nostalgic trip back to the 1960’s of Maplins. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.

Sat 26 February BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE APPHIA CAMPBELL’s acclaimed production. Inspired by the life of Nina Simone, following the successful jazz singer and civil rights activist. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Black is the Colour of my Voice

All events are listed throughout Broad Sheep Please check Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival website before the event as some events may be subject to change.

Fireman Sam Live!

THEATR IEUENTID / BRYCHEINIOG YOUTH THEATRE With weekly sessions tailored to suit the needs of each year group, from 4 years and up. Mondays 3.45pm 4.45pm Roundabout, Reception & Years 1 & 2. Wednesdays 5pm - 6pm Junior Youth, Years 3,4 & 5. Wednesdays 6pm - 7pm Junior Youth, Years 6,7 & 8. Thursdays 8.30pm - 10pm Senior Youth, Years 9, 10 & 11, 16 - 25. Call 01874 611622, www.brycheiniog.co.uk Tues 22 February FIREMAN SAM LIVE! Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, action-packed show. You can become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus. The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am & 1pm, 01432 340555. Sun 27 February THE MCDOUGALLS SAFARI ADVENTURE TORCH THEATRE. From giraffes that laugh to monkeys going bananas – join the gang for a roaring musical adventure for all the family, packed with action songs, live music and audience participation. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 2pm, free, limited tickets, 01597 258118.

DRAMA WORKSHOPS COURTYARD THEATRE, HEREFORD Wed - Courtyard Kids, reception 4.15-5pm, Year 2, 5pm, £63.50 per term. Sat - Junior Youth Theatre. From Year 3 - Year 9, phone for times, £68.50 per term. Fri - Intermediate Youth Theatre. For years 10 & 11, 5.15pm, £68.50 per term. Fri - Senior Youth Theatre, Year 12+, 7pm, £73.50 per term. Courtyard Musical Theatre, Tues for ages 4-8 years, 4-4.55pm, £60 per 12 week term. Thurs for ages 9-17 6.15pm-7.25pm, £66 per 12 week term, contact Laura Gale 07725 357531. Mons - Drama Tots,10am – 10.45am, Ages 2-4, £4 per session, £1 per extra child. Mon - Bromyard Conquest Kids (Reception & Year 2), 3.45pm, £36 per term. Bromyard Juniors (Year 3-6) 4.50-5.30pm, £39 per term. Bromyard Intermediates (Year 7-9), 6pm, £43 per term. Bromyard Seniors (Year 10+), 7.30pm, £46 per term. Wed - Kington Juniors (Year 2-6) 4-4.45pm, £36 per term. Kington Intermediates (Year 7- 9), 5pm-6pm, £39 per term. Kington Seniors (Years 10+) 6pm – 7.30pm, £43 per termThe Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555. The McDougalls Safari Adventure

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW Mon - Go MAD in Ludlow, 5-6.30pm, Oscars. Contact Simon 07506 478235 & Suzanne 07484 289215 or email hello@gomadinludlow.org Sat - Ludwig Academy of Musical Theatre. 7-11 years 1-2pm, 12-16 years 2-3pm. Oscars. Contact Jack Ludwig, 077922 66225. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow. Tuesdays YOUTH THEATRE For 7-14 year-olds after school. Ledbury Market Theatre, 01432 383663. Wednesdays KINGTON YOUTH THEATRE Kington Primary School. Wed - Junior 7-11 years, 4-5.30pm. Intermediate 11+ 5.30-7pm. £42 per term, 01432 340555. Thursdays (term time) SHROPSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE Seniors, 7-9.30pm, 14-25 years. All abilities welcome. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury. www.shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk Thursdays IMPULSIVE THEATRE COMPANY For ages 13-19. The Hive, 5 Belmont, Shrewsbury, 5-6.45pm, 07916 277928. Alternate Thursdays (term time) HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE All welcome, £5. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 10.30am-1.30pm, details Sue Best, 01597 811487. Saturdays (term time) SHROPSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE Beginners 9.30am-10.45am, 6-8 year olds. Juniors 11am-1pm, 9-12 year olds. The HIve, Shrewsbury, www.shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk

www.TheMarketTheatre.com Visit Ledbury’s purpose built, intimate theatre with comfortable seats, bar and a warm welcome, for a great programme of original drama, music, cinema and live screenings - see listings for what’s on

word Jenny Eclair

Sat 12 February JOEL DOMMETT: UNAPOLOGETIC (IF THAT’S OK?) Star of I’m a Celebrity, Singleton, Joel and NIsh v The World is back with his latest stand up tour. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £18, 01600 772467. Wed 16, Thurs 17 & Fri 25 February REGINALD D HUNTER: BOMBE SHUFFLEUR Climate change, mass unemployment, economic pandemics, the rise of global fascism. Welcome to the world of the Bombe Shuffleur. 16 Feb - The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555. 17 Feb - Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £25, 01743 281281. 25 Feb - Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £23, 01600 772467. Fri 18 February LAUGHTER LOUNGE @ SECRET GARDEN The Secret Garden, Coldwells Rd, Hereford, 8pm, £10 to include a curry served between 6.30-7.30pm, 07389 766816, email bookings@secretgardenhereford.co.uk

Poetry & Storytelling Tues 22 - Thurs 24 February HALF TERM FAMILY STORYTELLING: MAPPA, MONOTAURS & MYSTERIES Join the Hereford Cathedral team for stories with colouring-in activities included. Children must be accompanied by adult. Hereford Cathedral, 1-2.15pm, free and can be pre-booked or drop in, www.herefordcathedral.org Fri 25 February BISHOP’S CASTLE ARTS FESTIVAL ‘Do You Believe in Dragons?’ with Suzanne Tumnus, for all ages, The Methodist Hall, Station St, Bishop’s Castle, 1pm. ‘Saints and Witches’ with Suzanne Tumnus, a blend of storytelling and music for older children. The Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 6pm. Both events free, donations invited to festival funds. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com Fri 25 February & Fri 11 March BLAST - STORYTELLING Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, doors open 5.30pm, www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk 01588 630023. Sun 27 February JOHN OSBORNE - A SUPERMARKET LOVE STORY An evening of poignant, enchanting and heart-warming poetic tales from Radio 4 regular, John Osborne. For ages 14+. Dodington Lodge, Whitchurch, 4pm, £5, 01948 662539. Arts Alive.

Comedy

Sat 5 February JENNY ECLAIRE: SIXTY! (FFS) Having hit 60 (but still a year younger than Madonna), Jenny Eclair confronts a new decade of decrepitude. For ages 14+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Fri 18 February LUDLOW LAUGHS COMEDY CLUB OFF THE KERB present a night of rip roaring comedy, with Angela Barnes fronting a team of comedians. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 8pm, 01584 878141. Sat 19 February BOX OF FROGS Birmingham’s premier improv. group brings you a night of improvised comedy, spontaneous songs and spur of the moment scenes all based on suggestions from the audience. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £13, students £8, 07967 517125. Arts Alive. Sun 20 February LA VOIX: EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD A brand-new show as the Countess of Comedy. Packed by the case load with side splitting comedy, huge vocals, mesmerising diva impressions and buckets of energy. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555. Wed 23 & Thurs 24 February HENNING WEHN Watch German Comedy ambassador Henning Wehn wring sense out of the nonsensical. For ages 16+. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24.50, 01743 281281.

Henning Wehn

Morgan & West Unbelievable Science

Sun 27 February MORGAN & WEST UNBELIEVABLE SCIENCE Morgan & West present captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics and bonkers biology in this fun for all the family science extravaganza. Suitable for ages 7+. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622. Fri 4 March COUNT ARTHUR STRONG: AND THIS IS ME Arthur has two decades of memories from his ten national tours, 15 years of his multi Award winning radio show and three series of his BAFTA nominated TV sitcom. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £21.50, 01600 772467.

Fri 25 February WESTONS CIDER COMEDY CLUB Enjoy laugh-out-loud comedy from some of the hottest up-and-coming comedians on the circuit. For ages 18+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8.30pm, 01432 340555.

Talks

Fri 25 & Sat 26 February RICH HALL’S HOEDOWN DELUXE Gut-busting, rib-tickling, toe-tapping and shit-kicking, Rich Hall’s Hoedown Deluxe covers the full anatomical spectrum. For ages 14+. Regal Cinema, Tenbury Wells, 8pm, £18.50, 01584 811442.

Thurs 3 February OH... AND ANOTHER THING... AN EVENING WITH SU (POLLARD) The show business phenomenon tells her life story complete with anecdotes and backstage gossip. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £19.50, VIP Meet and Greet £40 (limited), 01600 772467.

Sat 26 February AN EVENING SHARED WITH JASPER CARROTT AND ALISTAIR MCGOWAN Comedy legends split the bill and your sides with a night of comedy stand up and impressions. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 718401.

Sun 13 February DARWIN MEMORIAL LECTURE ‘Social Evolution in Darwin’s World’. Lecture by Professor Robin Dunbar. Promoted by Friends of Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm, £12.50, 01743 281281.

The Dee Spoors Memorial Lecture

WIGMORE GARDENING CLUB Welcomes

CHRISTINE WALKDEN

“The Life and Times of a Gardener’

Television presenter, Question Time panellist, author and gardener Knowledgeable, likeable and accessible, with a uniquely Northern no-nonsense approach to gardening. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17th, 7.30pm WIGMORE SCHOOL SPORTS HALL, HR6 9UW Tickets £15 from Fran Rhodes 01568 770150 or wigmoregarden@outlook.com (Ticket numbers limited please book by 14th February)

Sat 19 February GORDON BUCHANAN: 30 YEARS IN THE WILD One of the most prominent wildlife presenters and filmmakers working today. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 718401. Sun 20 February SIR GEOFF HURST England’s hat trick hero and World Cup winner talks amusingly about his illustrious career. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £26.50, VIP Meet & Greet £61.50, 01743 281281.

Christine Walkden Tues 15 February HIDE AND SEEK PART 2 An illustrated talk by Peter and Margaret Preece about wildlife and landscapes. Leominster & District u3a monthly meeting at the Leominster Baptist Church Hall, Etnam Street, 2pm. Members free, Visitors welcome £2. www.u3asites.org.uk/Leominster. Tues 15 February LUDLOW AND MARCHES HUMANISTS ‘Mary’s Warning’. Dr. Colin Kelcey, a neuroscientist, and Fellow of the Royal Institution, will talk about Mary Shelley and her preoccupation with death and ghosts. 7:30pm, The Friends Meeting House, St Mary’s Lane, Ludlow, 01584 872492. Wed 16 February THE ARTS SOCIETY TEME VALLEY ‘The Duc de Berry: Medieval Illuminated Manuscripts’. A lecture by Christopher de Hamel. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 2.15pm, visitors welcome, £8. Wed 16 February AN EVENING WITH SHANE WILLIAMS Welsh rugby union player, most famous for his long and successful tenure as a wing for the Ospreys and the Wales National team. With Phyl Harries and Ieuan Rhys. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. Wed 16 February NOTORIOUS, BUT REMARKABLY EFFICIENT GURNEY STOVES A talk by Elizabeth Semper O’Keefe. South Transept, Hereford Cathedral, 3pm, £8, book via website, www.herefordcathedral.org 01432 374200. Thurs 17 February DEATH CAFE An informal group talk about death and dying with no agenda, objective or theme. Facilitated by experienced celebrant Ellie Brooks. The Barn, Hellens, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 7.30pm, to book your free place, www.hellensmanor.com

Thurs 17 February CHRISTINE WALKDEN: LIFE AND TIMES OF A GARDENER Best known for her appearances on The One Show, Gardeners’ World, Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time and author of a number gardening publications. Wigmore School Sports Hall, Ford St, Wigmore, 7.30pm, £15 (limited tickets, please book before 14 Feb), 01568 770150 or email wigmoregarden@outlook.com Wigmore & District Gardening Club.

Tues 22 February RAY MEARS Ray will be demonstrating and explaining techniques that will help us improve our senses and highlight the problems nature faces today. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £27, 01743 281281. Wed 23 - Sun 27 February BISHOP’S CASTLE ARTS FESTIVAL TALKS Wed 23 Feb - ‘Silks of Asia’, an illustrated talk with Jim Gaffney. The Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 5pm, free. Fri 25 Feb - ‘1922’, a talk by Paul Binding, free. The Church Barn, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, free, refreshments selling tea/coffee/cakes open from 1.30-4pm. Fri 25 Feb - ‘Nothing Is Until It Has a Word’, a talk by Pat Townsend; Gillian Clarke’s poetry and her search for the truth. Poetry Pharmacy, 2pm, free. Sat 26 Feb - ‘What Did the Canaanites Ever Do For Us?’, an illustrated talk by Robert Fowke. The Church Barn, 2pm, free, refreshments available from 1.30-4pm. Sat 26 Feb - ‘Meet the Authors. An interview with historical fiction authors: Alix Nathan and Kate Innes. The Library, Enterprise House, Bishop’s Castle, 4pm, free. Sun 27 Feb - ‘Hill and Dale, my Shropshire Year’, an illustrated talk by Andrew Fusek Peters. The Church Barn, Bishop’s Castle, free, refreshments available from 1.30-4pm. Donations invited for all events towards the Arts Festival. www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com Thurs 24 February ARTS SOCIETY MID WALES & BORDERS ‘In Another Man’s Shoes’, with speaker Ellie Somme. Powis Suite, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, 2.30pm, visitors welcome, £6, 01938 555574. Tues 1 March LINGEN GARDENING CLUB “Plants for spring and summer including some new varieties”, a talk by Paul Green. Lingen Village Hall, 7.30pm. Information can be obtained from Alvin Botting 01544 267463.

Ray Mears

Thurs 3 March PETE WHITTAKER: SOLO & FREE Join Pete from the sub culture of underground crack climbing and onto the side of the world’s highest big walls. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622. Sat 5 March GLASBURY ARTS LECTURE ‘Charles Burton: Painting Still’. By Peter Wakelin, formerly Director of Collections at the National Museum of Wales. The Drama Studio, Gwernyfed High School, 7.30pm, £12, £7 unwaged or in full time education. Booking essential, www.glasburyarts.co.uk

Workshops & Courses Starting Mon 31 Jan for 5 weeks LIVING IN LOVE AND FAITH A 5 week course led by Revd. Canon Chris Pullin. (31 Jan, 7, 14, 21 & 28 Feb). Old Chapel, Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, free to attend, but advance booking is essential, 01432 374225. Until June 2022 OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPERIENCED WRITERS Intimate monthly seminars with Angela France, organised in partnership with The Poetry School. Maximum of eight students. Dates: 8 Feb, 8 Mar, 12 Apr, 10 May, 14 June. Barrett Browning Institute, Ledbury, 6-8.30pm, £265, email administration@poetryschool.com 0207 582 1679. Until May 2022 ONLINE POETRY READING GROUP Read and chat about the books shortlisted for the Ledbury Munthe Poetry Prize. 7 Feb - ‘Horse-Man’ by Em Strang. 7 March - ‘Tigress’ by Jessica Mookherjee. 4 April - ‘Love Minus Love’ by Wayne Holloway-Smith. 9 May - ‘After the Formalities’ by Anthony Anaxagorou. Online reading group meetings are on Zoom, 7-9pm, free. Email director@poetry-festival.co.uk for Zoom link. 1st Saturday READING GROUP Bleddfa Centre, near Knighton, afternoons, donations, 01547 550377. Mondays WRITING ROOM The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.30-8.30pm, £75 per term, 01432 340555.

Mondays STORY CORNER AT THE COURTYARD For ages 4 years and under. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555. Fourth Monday SCIENCE CAFÉ Informal group, talks and discussions on scientific topics. The Swan at Hay, 7pm, free, all welcome, sciencecafe@outlook.com Every Tues & Wed SPANISH LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS Tues - Advance beginners 5.30pm, beginners 7pm, Wed - Advance Spanish B1, 10am, with Mely. Private tuition - GCSE students and A Level. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 07837 160505. Every Tues READING ROOM The Courtyard, Hereford, 10.30am-12.30pm, £55 per term, 01432 340555. First Wednesday of each month BABARS’ BOOK CLUB All welcome, 6.30pm, Babar’s Cafe, Union St, Hereford, 01432 342334. First Wednesday of the month POETRY CAFE, Charlton Arms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01584 872813. Every Thursday WELSH CLASSES FOR ADULTS Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 10.30am-3pm, 01639 841751. Every other Thursday PHILOSOPHY CAFE Informal group which offers the chance to discuss philosophical issues. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 821762. philosphycafe@outlook.com Last Thursday of the month BOOK CLUB De Koffie Pot, Bridge St, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 357753, ECStarling@theherefordacademy.org.uk First Friday of the month POT AND PAGE BOOKCLUB An evening bookclub for readers with a literary themed cocktail in hand. Food and drinks served all evening. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 7pm, free, 01531 248743. Fridays READING ROOM EXTRA The Courtyard, Hereford, 6-8pm, £55 per term, 01432 340555. International Poetry Writers’ Collective: Abergavenny 01873 856350 Leominster Writers' Circle, Leominster Community Centre, Frank Pavitt, chairman LWC, 01568 614973, meet first Tuesday, monthly, 2pm. Presteigne Writers’ Circle, 3rd Thursday, Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, 01544 260398.

AARDVARK BOOKS & CAFE Website: www.aardvark-books.com 50,000+ titles; North Herefordshire’s largest indie bookseller; We buy books Specialist in art, design, photography, history, gardening

Also open our superb CAFÉ!

The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, SY7 0DH Off A4113 Knighton Road. Tel: 01547 530744 aardvaark@btconnect.com www.aardvark-books.com Bookshop open to visitors Tues-Sun 10am-4pm.

POETRY BREAKFAST RETURNS From March 2022.

Check Website for details

www.aardvark-books.com

grass roots Getting pumped up to save the climate

URIED somewhere in government statements in the autumn, in the run-up to the Glasgow climate summit, was a number with big implications for how we build and heat our homes. A figure was given for the amount of carbon dioxide that we emitted from all our houses and flats in the year 2020.

Ed Miliband, Shadow Energy Secretary

As the government put in a late burst of activity to burnish its credentials, about ten days before the Glasgow meeting, it released its strategy for heat and buildings. This showed that the exhaust gases coming from our homes, as distinct from our vehicles, totalled well over 67 million tonnes, making up more than one fifth of all UK greenhouse gas emissions. That statement put us on notice that we need to gear up for a new era in which most of us, who heat our homes with gas, will have to start using much more climatefriendly technology. Yes folks, it’s time to get our heads around heat pumps! If this sounds impossibly geeky, we need to bear in mind that there is now a deadline for action. Excuse me, what exactly is a heat pump? For an answer to that I will refer directly to the website of Greenpeace, which can’t be accused of being in bed with the energy industry. It tells us that these pumps “are the future of home heating. They work by gathering small amounts of heat energy from the air or ground, and concentrating it to warm up your home.” How do they work? Forget it! I haven’t the foggiest idea. And you don’t really need to know unless you are taking a GCSE in home environmental science. What we do need to focus on is that from 2035 we won’t be allowed to instal gas boilers in our homes. And, in newly built homes, gas boilers will be banned in three years from now. The government has pledged to ensure that by 2028, the installation rate of heat pumps will be no fewer than 600,000 a year. To encourage the process, it is providing grants of £5,000 per household. However, the small number and size of these grants suggests the overall government funding will come nowhere near meeting the scale of the challenge. A sum of just £450million has been allocated to cover the first three years. This will provide enough to retrofit just 90,000 homes. But that is only a tiny fraction of the 23 million homes which will need to be kitted out. When the government announced its heat and buildings strategy in the Commons in October, the Labour spokesman, Ed Miliband, a former energy secretary, seemed to be shooting at an open goal. “We have waited months for the heat and buildings strategy,” he said. “It is a massive let-down. We are in the midst of an energy price crisis caused by a decade of inaction.”

According to his calculations, the government plan to stimulate demand for heat pumps by homeowners

would help just one in 250 households on the gas grid. But the energy secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng, has said that, over the next ten years, low carbon heating systems will become the obvious choice for consumers. “Through our new grant scheme, we will ensure people are able to choose a more efficient alternative in the meantime,” says Kwarteng. However, the gulf between the level of government support and the size of the task suggests that the heat pumps plan is in danger of following in the footsteps of earlier optimistic energy projects which aimed to help homeowners make big cuts in their carbon emissions. Sadly these schemes, emanating from the energy department, BEIS, or its predecessors, have a very poor record of take-up. The Green Homes Grant Voucher scheme launched last year fell flat on its face. Only about a fifth of the funding available to applicants was paid out. And in terms of green employment creation, it resulted in as few as 5,600 green jobs, as against the 82,500 posts the government hoped for. An earlier scheme, the so-called Green Deal, from 2013 to 2015, under the Tory-Lib Dem coalition, offered government-backed loans to help householders take energy-saving measures, like installing double glazing. Then also, only about a fifth of the available funding was applied for. And the plan ended up costing taxpayers about £17,000 for each home that was improved. So how many jobs will follow this time around from the new green homes strategy? Just under a quarter of a million, says the energy department BEIS. Oh dear! Won’t they ever learn? That sounds like yet another forecast from this department which will require little short of a miracle to deliver! Julian O’Halloran

Green Events GARDENING ON THE ‘BORDERS’ Planting Schemes Perennial Borders Flower Meadows Nurture Maintain Restore Designs A Garden Sanctuary for You and Wildlife Call Michelle - A Plant Guru 01547 528003 M: 07793750691 E: mlrubybrink@gmail.com WYNNES OF DINMORE COUNTRYSTORE

Corner Exotics Sat 12 February SEED SWAP Teme Valley Environment Group are holding the annual seed swap at Knighton Community Market, LD7 1DR 9.30am-12.30.pm Including Heritage Seed varieties.

Poultry Keeping - Free 1/2 hour session. Covers laying hens, housing, feed, bedding, health & hygiene + Question & Answer time. Held at Wynnes of Dinmore Countrystore - off the A49 (through village centre). Open Tues - Sat 9am-4:30pm. For more information email info@wynnes.co.uk or telephone Roxy or Ann 01568 797314. February, April & May WILDLIFE SURVEYING AT HELLENS MANOR 14 Feb - Earthworms. 4 April - Pondlife. 6 May Botony. 20 May - Invertebrates. No experience necessary. All training will be supplied by Ecologist Tim Kaye from ‘Hidden Herefordshire’. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury. To book and more info email tim@clan-cic.org

Wed 23 February CORNER EXOTICS Simon Airey and his menagerie. Hear some fascinating wildlife facts and overcome your fears by touching these beautiful, unusual animals! Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 2.30pm, 01584 878141. Fri 25 February THINK GLOBAL A jam packed activity filled evening dedicated to the small changes we can make at thome that can have a big impact on the world around us. All profits will be donated to Sustainable Ledbury, and tickets are inclusive of a light supper. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 6.30pm, £12.50, to book www.potandpage.co.uk 01531 248743. Act Local in partnership with Sustainable Ledbury. Wednesdays LITTLE WILLOWS OUTDOOR NATURE PLAYGROUP The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 9.30am-11am, £1.50 per child, includes a bowl of porridge. Themes posted weekly on Facebook page, 01497 821762.

February SHROPSHIRE HILLS DISCOVERY CENTRE 19 Feb - Fruit Tree Pruning Course. Join Karen Limbrick for a hands on fruit tree pruning session. Stout boots and gardening gloves are essential, some tools will be available on the day, £25, booking essential. 21 - 25 Feb - Dinosaur Puzzles, for ages 4-11 years, £4, booking essential. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060.

Every Third Saturday in the Month PRESTEIGNE REPAIR Presteigne Youth Centre, Hereford Street. 10am-12pm. Household items repaired for free. Info: 01544 267997.

February KNIGHTON TREE ALLOTMENTS TRUST KTAT manages woodlands for the benefit of wildlife and members. Volunteer to learn. Details email woodland@ tveg.org.uk 01547 520374 http://tveg.org.uk

2nd Thursday of the month KINGTON KLEEN Networking drinks. Oxford Arms, Kington, from 7pm, www.kingtonkleen.org.uk Fruit Tree Pruning, Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre

Thurs 3 February & Thurs 3 March GOING WILD IN BISHOP’S CASTLE A talk ‘Restarting Shropshire Verges Project’. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm. Donations welcome to help cover costs. 01588 630023.

Mondays & Wednesdays KNIGHTON MENS SHED Sharpening service available. Teme Mill, Station Yard, Knighton, 10am-2pm. John on 01544232750 or email jtknightonmensshed@gmail.com.

Sat 5 February HEREFORD SEED SWAP Bring saved seed, bought seed, plants, bulbs, edibles and ornamentals and swap for anything on the table, including heritage seed varieties. Plus free talk by Adam Alexander - ‘The importance of Local Varieties in Food Culture and Identity’ at 11am.The Courtyard, Hereford, 10am-2pm, 07880 730880.

complementary therapies Disclaimer. We would like to emphasise that these listings relate to COMPLEMENTARY medicine practitioners. Broad Sheep does not endorse any of the practitioners or healing methods listed. We provide no recommendation and take no responsibility for their content.

A is for ACUPUNCTURE with Joanna Bruce RGN, MBAcC at The Body Clinic, Leominster & Richard’s Castle. Treating pain (NICE recommended) and long-term health conditions since 1985. Food intolerance testing. Phone 01584 831 840 or text 07984 460969. E-booking: www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk ACUPUNCTURE. Sandy Sandaver Lic Ac MBAcC. I practice an integrated style of acupuncture using 5 element and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and am a member of the British Acupuncture Council. I also carry out home visits. Hay Acupuncture Clinic, Rose Cottage, Cusop Dingle, Hay-On-Wye 01497 821625/07980 596218 sandysandaver@onetel.com or www.hayacupunctureclinic.co.uk ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, TRAUMA, LOW SELF WORTH and emotional difficulties - our innovative approach is being used with private and NHS clients with great success. Clients attend an average of 4 sessions to achieve a substantial, some say transformative, effect on their well being. You can check out the testimonials and book a one to one session on our website www. peaceofmindnow.co.uk or get in touch for more information Mike Buckley 07931 986168 mcmbuckley@gmail.com AROMATHERAPY massage and facials - Bach Remedies - Herbalism - Reiki. For comprehensive, holistic treatment: Roz Myers Brown, Dip. Ar. IPTI, MIPTI. Kington clinic. 07967 137208, roz.brown@btinternet.com BESPOKE MASSAGE THERAPY BY CHERYL LILWALL MTI. Sensitive communication through the medium of touch. For physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Clinic held at the Integrative Health Clinic, Holland House, 70 Belmont Road, Hereford. Tel: 07487 738089. www. herefordbespokemassagetherapy.co.uk

CHARTERED CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST & PSYCHODYNAMIC PSYCHOTHERAPIST with over 25 years professional NHS experience, providing psychological help to adults. Please see website for details: www.drmatthewfaull.co.uk. I am highly trained and experienced in using evidence–based psychotherapies to relieve distress and help you achieve your life goals, and offer sessions in Ludlow and Leintwardine. I also offer supervision to mental health professionals. Please contact me by email: mfaull@btinternet.com, to arrange a free initial phone conversation to consider your needs. Registered with British Psychological Society, British Psychoanalytic Council, Health Professions Council. CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY with Jess Pailthorpe RCST. Safe, effective, light-touch treatments to help you heal & repair. Muscle/joint problems, stress, anxiety, fatigue, trauma….Clinics in Leominster Osteopaths and Kingsland. Phone for more info: 07981 866 667 / www.touchtreetherapy.co.uk DEEPLY RELAXING Craniosacral Therapy can increase your well-being by releasing emotional and physical tensions. Given a safe space and correct focus, your body knows the way. I am an accredited practitioner, qualified since 2004, based in Shrewsbury, Crickhowell and Mid Wales. Email: cheryljonestherapy@gmail.com Mobile: 07476 012299. EMOTIONAL WELLBEING: Anne Cummings FETC (Adv Dip), BAoG (Dip), MBIG (Dip) offers a safe, effective therapy to help adults and children heal their emotional and spiritual wounds and fulfil their personal potential. If you have difficulty relating to others, or have troublesome emotions call Anne on 01547 530977. Specialist knowledge and experience of working with panic attacks, anger, stress, bullying, low self-esteem, bereavement/loss and anxiety. Ffi see www.thewritetofeel.com. EQUINE FACILITATED LEARNING. Personal growth for individuals and groups through powerful yet gentle interactions with horses, with seasoned Eponaquest facilitator Angela Dunning. EFL sessions involve spending time outdoors with these beautiful sentient beings, where you will be guided to deepen your connection to yourself and your body; build true confidence; reconnect to your Soul’s purpose and bring greater authenticity to your life. No horse experienced required. Shropshire/Herefordshire/ Borders. Contact me on: 01588 630061/07583 726207; angela@equinereflections.co.uk; or visit www.thehorsestruth.co.uk

HEALINGS, INSIGHT READINGS, PERSONAL GROWTH COACHING, ANIMAL COMMUNICATION Healings, insights into life path and situations, space and guidance to explore and help re-align with our inner truth. Also offer help understanding our animals’ behaviour and needs. Enquiries: Kohra 01544 262 110, kohra@gmx.co.uk

HEREFORD HOMEOPATH Juliet Ablett RHom, MARH, MNCHM. Holistic health care with experienced practitioner using homeopathy, essences and homeobotanicals; safe and effective for all ages. I work with you as an individual, listening without judgement, working with whatever issues or problems you may have. Regular clinics in Monmouth and Hereford, incl. Saturday morning children’s clinic in Hereford. See website: www.julietablett.co.uk or contact Juliet at juliet@julietablett.co.uk or 01981 241456 HOLISTIC MASSAGE THERAPY: Meg Lawrence MTI. A listening and sensitive therapy, treating the whole person. For relief from aches and pains, easing of occupational and postural tensions, providing relaxation and calm in peaceful surroundings, 20 minutes from Presteigne, Hay-on-Wye and Kington. Email meg@radnorshire.com; phone or text 07910 892172. HYPNOTHERAPY Vicky Nicolson-James DipHP HWHP Herefordshire based empathetic hypnotherapist offering online or 1-1 therapy to help you live the life you want and deserve. Professional Hypnotherapy Practitioner Association and National Society of Hypnotherapy. T:01568 760 306 E: vickynicolsonjames@gmail.com WhatsApp: 07790 162067. LEOMINSTER NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE Chiropractic, Herbal Medicine, Kinesiology, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Reflexology, Emmet technique. Remedial and Holistic Massage. Counselling inc: Couples and Family, Cognitive Behaviour and NLP Stress Management, Child Birth Issues, Psychotherapy. Telephone 01568 616411 email infoleominstercommunitycentre@gmail.com Or visit Leominster Community Centre, School Road HR6 8NJ (behind Bridge Street car park). LIFE COACHING brings confidence, good relationships, clear communication and life skills to enable you to be your true, more fulfilled and happier self. I’m compassionate, empathic, focused and work with confidentiality and integrity. Working from Leominster I offer a free 15 minute call to see if it’s right for you you Suzanna Underwood Graduate Life Coach and Person Centred Counsellor 07903 415359. MASSAGE THERAPY WITH MARIAN HARDIMAN (MTI, CNHC, MLDUK). Remedial, Sports, Holistic, Indian Head Massage. Organic Facial and Manual Lymph Drainage. Clinic in Presteigne (The Retreat), Presteigne, LD8 2UF. Contact: marian@silvanmassage.com, www.silvanmassage.com, 07816 981454. MASSAGE, COACHING, YOGA, DECLUTTERING with Wellbeing Therapist Sophie Atkinson, Orleton SY8 Individual powerful sessions to help you create the space you need for the life you want. 07930 353 118: www.sophieatkinson.co.uk sophie@healing-energy.net MINDFULNESS Alithea Waterfield MBCT teacher offering Mindful Walks in Nature, 8-week Mindfulness courses and Mindfulness Guided Meditations. Committed to helping you reconnect with a more authentic and compassionate self and develop skills to manage life’s challenges resourcefully, skillfully and creatively. 07899 361316 alitheawaterfield@gmail.com www.midwalesmindfulness.co.uk OSTEOPATH. Mr R A Hughes D.O. Registered Osteopath and Sports Therapist. Fully qualified and registered since 1995. Established in Presteigne for over 20 years. Sciatica, Arthritis, Trapped Nerves, Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain. Headaches, Sports Injuries. 07961 352056, rahughesosteo@gmail.com The Retreat, Presteigne – free car parking.

PHYSIOTHERAPY, CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY, REFLEXOLOGY & YOGA with Hermione Evans, Chartered Physiotherapist at Radnor Physiotherapy. For all back and neck pain, headaches, sports injuries, RSI, stress related illness and more. To discuss your needs or to make an appointment, please phone 01544 350691 or email contact@radnorphysiotherapy.co.uk or view www.radnorphysiotherapy.co.uk REIKI means Universal Life Energy. It’s a very gentle relaxing healing of the body and emotions relieving pain, stress and anxiety. Working from Leominster I offer a free 15 minute call for you to see if it’s right for you. Suzanna Underwood Advanced Reiki Master 07903 415359. SPIRITUAL HEALER. 30 years plus experience. One-on-one healing and ‘introduction to healing’ workshops. “If you truly know yourself you will truly know freedom”. Please contact Gilly Williamson, MNFSH, Field House, Kinnerton. 01547 560874. SOUND HEALING TRAINING AND WORKSHOP RETREATS We run the 5 part Sound Therapy training programme for the College of Sound Healing as weekend retreats in the beautiful setting of Primrose Haven with lovely gardens and sacred spaces. Also Seasonal Sounds Days and weekend retreats: Sound Healing and Nature; Magical Resonance of Celtic Sounds and Sound and gardening for the soul. Retreat stays in our cosy Shepherd Huts. Occasional evening sound and Gong meditations. Please contact Paul Benham, paul@primrosehavenretreats.co.uk and www.primrosehavenretreats.co.uk. 07811 816637. THE BODY CLINIC LEOMINSTER HEALTH Health Assessments, Massage, Sports Therapy, Acupuncture, K-Laser, Yoga, Thai-Chi, Thai Massage, Reflexology, Counselling, Mindfulness, Reiki. Support with rehabilitation, pain, long term health conditions, womens and mens health, mental health, fertility and pregnancy. www.thebodyclinicleominster 01568 368907, 07493 078566, thebodyclinicleominster@gmail.com 17 West Street, HR6 8EP.

YOGA IN PRESTEIGNE Group classes - both live and online. Individual tuition in Stapleton. Moving consciously with the breath

Marie Hudson 01544 260352 www.theyogapractice.org.uk

TRANSFORMATIONAL COACHING & COUNSELLING WITH WENDY YOUNG Compassionate and focussed conversations and body-centred processes to heal developmental & emotional trauma and core wounding. This supports your transformational journey of becoming and living your authentic and joyful self. I offer a FREE 30 mins discovery call to answer your questions and see if it feels right for us to work together. Online nationally and in-person in Llanidloes, mid-Wales. For more info and to book call 07388 491 990; email wendy@wiselivingworld. com; website www.wiselivingworld.com.

Workshops WORKSHOP LISTINGS - Single (dated) listings are free. Year round, ongoing workshops will cost £40 per year. Wed 23 February CHILDREN’S YOGA With Chloe Beeson. Chloe Yoga Studio, 23 Church St, Bishop’s Castle, 3-34pm for 4-6 years, 4-4.45pm for 7-11 years. Free, donations to festival funds invited. Part of Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival, www.bishopscastleartsfestival.com FELDENKRAIS Awareness Through Movement Classes. Learn to move more freely, with greater ease and flexibility, improving posture, balance and coordination. The Feldenkrais method uses a combination of gentle movement and relaxed attention to improve comfort and function and to enhance our sense of well being. Local classes have moved online for now, so please contact Jane at janesethi@yahoo.co.uk for more information. ONLINE MINDFUL YOGA CLASSES Slow down, soften and turn inwards. Move and breath your way back into a natural state of vibrant well-being. Join via Zoom weekly on Mondays and Tuesdays from 6:15pm - 7:30pm. Classes are small, friendly and suitable for all levels of flexibility and experience. For more info and to book call Wendy Young 07388 491 990; email wendy@wiselivingworld.com; website www.wiselivingworld.com/mindful-hatha-yoga/ HEDGEROW MEDICINE, KITCHEN PHARMACY Herbal Medicine Making Courses with Rowan McOnegal, Medical Herbalist. Practical weekend courses which explore identifying, growing, harvesting, drying, storing and using herbs. Covers the basic principles of herbal medicine, and making and using teas, tinctures, infused oils, ointments, creams, syrups, inhalations and baths. www.hedgerowmedicine.org 01531 670075. YOGA & AYURVEDA Individual yoga practice. Diet. Exercise. Life Balance. Jill Bonner BA PGCE Art. DIPL Yoga Therapy. DIPL Ayurveda Therapy. Details 07789 428109.

PILATES SESSIONS Pilates is a method of exercise designed to elongate and strengthen the body. It promotes improved core strength and stability which in turn improves posture, flexibility, circulation and physical wellbeing. Classes available in Presteigne and various locations within the North Herefordshire, North Worcestershire and South Shropshire area. All sessions are based on small groups and working to individual abilities therefore booking is essential. Private sessions by arrangement. Contact Jackie on 0782 4114979 or justjackie39@gmail.com

Every Saturday RIVER FLOW YOGA With Graham Nolan. Mixed ability, open to all. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 9.30am, 01497 821762, phone to check class is on. First Saturday of the month MEDITATION For beginners or experienced meditators. run by The Bleddfa Centre, held at Cascob, near Presteigne, 11am-12.30pm, donations £3-£5, 01547 550377. Sundays REST AND RESTORE Meditation session. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 4.30pm, £8.50, food and drink included, 01531 248743. Mondays MAMA MOJO YOGA FLOW The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 10.30am, £6, 01743 234970. Mondays & Wednesdays PILATES Pilates-Based Back Care - Mon 10.30am & Wed 5.45pm. Pilates-Based Body Conditioning - Mon 11.45am & Wed 7pm. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 01874 625992. Tuesdays VOICE YOGA (YOGIC SINGING) Willey Chapel, LD8 2NA, 11am. Also online via Zoom Mondays 6pm. No singing or yoga experience necessary! Learn how to connect to your most peaceful place through your voice. Contact Liv: oliviapreye@gmail.com or visit www.voiceyoga.co.uk Tuesday evenings NEW MEDITATION CLASSES IN PRESTEIGNE In the Assembly Rooms, Broad St,, Presteigne, starting on the 18th January with a 5 week course; “Setting a New Direction for Life, Meditations for a Kinder World” at 7:30 - 9:00 pm. Two guided meditations, a short talk on how to integrate Buddha’s Ancient Wisdom into our busy modern lives, an opportunity to ask questions and refreshments. For beginners and experienced meditators; Everyone Welcome. Drop in class £6 per person, or free with all levels of membership. For more info contact KMC Wales, www.meditationinwales.org or Juliet on 01547 510247. Thursdays YOGA With Karen Booth. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, near Newtown, 4.30pm-6pm, 01686 688369. Third Thursday of the month ECO SPIRIT CAFE An informal monthly meeting for people interested in spirituality and connection to the environment. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7.30pm, free, 01497 821762.

Hedgerow Medicine