BROAD SHEEP APRIL 2025

BROAD sheep

april 2025

Cheaper than a prawn sandwich

A sheep

S I am sure all you high flying CEO’s out there already know the two golden rules of business are 1. Do not denigrate your own product 2. Do not get publicly involved in Politics. Frankly, I have never taken any notice of either rule and yet Broad Sheep continues to fly off the shelves. Do you know why that is? Because despite being full of incomprehensible editorials and artsy-fartsy nonsense, it’s free and you bunch of right wing cheapskates can’t resist a bargain.

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Gerald Ratner (remember him?) discovered rule number 1 to his cost. Having inherited his father’s jewellery business in 1984. He had turned a small retailer into a multimillion-dollar empire within six years. People loved his store because it offered affordable products and was generally known as the place where working-class boys bought rings for working-class girls. Life was going well for Ratner, who had expensive cars, houses, boats, women and rubbed shoulders with Margaret at Number 10. Then in 1991 he made a speech addressing a conference of the Institute of Directors. During the speech, he commented: “We also do cut-glass sherry decanters complete with six glasses on a silver-plated tray that your butler can serve you drinks on, all for £4.95. People say, How can you sell this for such a low price? I say, because it’s total crap”. He compounded this by remarking that one of his sets of earrings was “cheaper than a prawn sandwich from Marks and Spencer’s, but the sandwich will probably last longer than the earrings”.

Ratner’s comments have become textbook examples of why CEOs should choose their words carefully. In the furore that ensued, customers stayed away from Ratner shops. After the speech, the value of the Ratner group plummeted by around £500 million. Ratner hired a chairman in an attempt to stabilize the situation, and was dismissed by the new chairman in 1992.

So, my question is – Has Elon Musk OUTRATNERD Ratner? Tesla has suffered unprecedented market losses to start 2025, with nearly half of the company’s value wiped out in just a few months. As reported by Business Insider, Tesla was valued at $1.54 trillion in December 2024, but as of March 2025, that number has dropped

to $777 billion. JP Morgan analysts call it one of the largest and fastest stock crashes in automotive history, saying they struggle to find a comparable event in terms of both scale and speed. While global EV demand may be a factor due to Tesla facing more competition - the biggest issue appears to be Musk’s political involvement with the Trump administration. His role in the Department of Government Efficiency has drawn criticism. Backlash has been growing across the U.S. in response to Musk’s politics and his cavorting around the White House, with protests and vandalism at Tesla stores increasing in recent weeks. The controversy escalated further after President Trump suggesting that protesters could be labeled as “domestic terrorists.” But Tesla is also in trouble in Europe and China. Earlier this week we reported that Tesla sales in Norway collapsed by 44.4% through January and February. Things are even worse in Germany. New data from Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority – shows that in January 2025, Tesla sales plummeted by 59.5%. It’s not hard to see why Elon’s infatuation with hard right politics, chain saws and Nazi style salutes might not go down that well with, climate conscious, consumers. Add to this a second SpaceX rocket explosion and you can assume Elon is not having a great year so far. Still, if you are the richest man in the world perhaps you don’t give a damn.

Incidentally if you have the odd £30,000 knocking around and are about to buy an electric car and don’t want a Tesla, you may be confused by some of the car brands that are appearing. Here is Pete’s quick guide to who are behind the new names. POLESTAR is part funded by Volvo although Volvo also have their own EV’s. CUPRA is a brand from VW’s Spanish arm Seat but is manufactured in Germany not Spain. GENESIS is Korean giant Hyundai’s posh brand. MG is no longer a tweedy, flat cap, British institution but is owned by the Chinese SAIC motor corporation ORA is GWM (aka Great Wall Motors). Waiting in the sidelines and about to launch in the UK are BYD, Lepeng & Xpeng all Chinese. Happy, silent, electric motoring!

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BABY MASSAGE CLASSES at Ludlow Assembly Rooms (Studio 2) every Wednesday 10.00-11.00 - £8.00 per session (includes massage oil), if interested please contact Mary Hatt on 01568 770100 or email: maryhatt@phonecoop.coop

TOMATO MAN HAS A PROBLEM THIS YEAR. No Spring Greens, no River Carnival but hundreds of heritage tomato plants, 50 varieties available end of April. Call Dave on 07967722251 or info@lychgates. co. uk for collection

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CHANCE TO VISIT GEORGIA - THE LAND OF THE GOLDEN FLEECE. For a wonderful foreign adventure in 2025, consider joining a small-group tour led by Georgia experts Christopher and Mzia who will show you this little-known country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia on the ancient Silk Road, which boasts the highest mountains in Europe, is rich in UNESCO World Heritage sites and folklore traditions, is the cradle of wine, and has a fabulous cuisine. You will be following in the footsteps of other intrepid local residents and national treasure Joanna Lumley who described Georgia as “simply spectacular!” For more information see www.georgiawineroute.com or contact Christopher and Mzia at mziag@hotmail.co.uk

VIOLIN TUITION with Ron Colyer, MusB, MSTAT. I am a very experienced teacher and performer (ex Philharmonia and BBC Symphony Orchestras, soloist and chamber musician), now giving lessons to students aged 5 to 18 in Worcester, Ledbury, Malvern and surrounding areas. Past students have gone on to specialist music schools, conservatoires, and into the music profession. Success and satisfaction in your playing depends on securing the foundations of technique, learning how to practise, and how to listen: and it really can be fun and inspiring! Contact me on 07733 253056, or email alextechwithron9@outlook.com

PIANO LESSONS IN LEOMINSTER Classical and jazz, ABRSM grades or just for fun. Mature adult pupils welcome. Also mentoring help with composition and songwriting. ANDREW MORRIS 07779 380483 andrewjmorris@mac.com

VIOLIN, VIOLA TUITION. All ages/stages. 07870 320022. Church Stretton.

WEDDING VENUE Ludlow Mascall Centre has three rooms licensed for wedding and civil partnership ceremonies, starting at £90. Ideal for intimate ceremonies and celebrations for up to 70 people. Rooms can be decorated to your style. Ample parking on site. Contact director@ ludlowmascallcentre.co.uk or 01584 873882 for details.

APPLE MAC COMPUTER REPAIRS UPGRADES AND TUITION All Apple computers. On site service only. Any distance. Call or Email Lee on 07875 267790 mail@applemacmechanic.co.uk

RETIRED PROFESSIONAL PAINTER AVAILABLE for local work. References available. £85.00 per day. Try me. Roy 01547 520164.

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.

JAZZ PIANO LESSONS Understand jazz chords. Learn how to improvise. Play classic jazz tunes. Learn to improvise in four important styles: blues, swing, mainstream/ modern and Latin. Presteigne based. Will travel - Borders area. Simon Deeley A.L.C.M., 07890 303681. simon.deeley@aol.com

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BEEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS Interested in keeping bees but unsure of how to start? Our weekend ‘Bee Ready’ courses are run on our family smallholding near Bromyard, and aim to give you the information and confidence you need. Now taking bookings for May 3rd/4th 2025. For further details please email woodruffbank@btinternet.com

CHAIR REPAIRS: seats rushed & recaned. Also Danish cord & Habitat sheet cane seats. Paul Richards, 01544 209140. Email - paulrichardsft@gmail.com

PIANO LESSONS IN PRESTEIGNE. All ABRSM grades or simply for fun. Contact Mzia 07981 752405, mziag@hotmail.co.uk

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

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Jam, anyone? philosophy

AS THE man famously said, making a work of art is easy - until you know what you’re doing. Well, that’s our topic for today. Art. More precisely, what art is FOR. But first, a horror story.

The supermarket was vast, less like a shop, more like a small town. The range of goods boggled the mind. Should you be wanting a wheelbarrow, a packet of frozen peas, a pair of socks, a leg of lamb or a chainsaw - look no further. You’d come to the right place. It was utterly ghastly.

In one area you were treated to a display of lavatory seats, arranged on the wall like paintings in a gallery. And not far away, the real thing - acutal paintings, and tawdry specimens they were too. None of the paintings was priced. An assistant explained that they were sold ‘by the square foot’, with 18 inches x 12 proving especially popular. If a painting of specific dimension was unavailable it was not unknown for a customer to buy a larger item and have it ‘cut down to size’ and reframed. Words failed me. Please, please, tell me this is not art.

Ernst Gombrich, in the very fi rst sentence of his magisterial book The Story of Art, throws a spanner in the works, claiming that ‘There really is no such thing as Art. There are only artists.’ If space permitted we could analyze this striking claim, even attempt a definition, an activity so beloved of philosophers. We could try to fathom out what all examples of art have in commontheir essence.

But here we meet a knotty problem straight away. When we think of art we probably have in mind painting and drawing, possibly sculpture. But what about literature, music, architecture, motor car design, embroidery, gardening, ballet? Might not these also be classed as art? The person who paints your portrait is, of course, an artist. But what about the person who paints your house? Here we broach the complex question of the relationship between art and craft. Yet another question to be left in the hands and minds of Broad Sheep’s readers.

But IF art exists, what exactly is it FOR? What function/s does it fulfil? If the forms of art are potentially endless, as Gombrich suggests, maybe their purposes are equally varied. However noting that art exists in all known cultures past and present, it seems likely that its constant presence in human life across the centuries is evidence of its vital role in our wellbeing. Essential. Or is it?

Long years ago I was guilty of a mischievous act of deception. A group of my philosophy students had been getting to grips with aesthetics. You know the sort of thing: questions about beauty, good taste, and so on. I offered them a quotation as the basis of an essay they were having to produce. The quotation ran: ‘If science is the bread and butter, art is the jam.’ A quotation from Marx. They eventually produced their essays, the

most industrious students having trudged laboriously through the writings of Karl Marx, hoping to discover the location of the quote. They were disappointed. ‘Where exactly was this quote from?’ they demanded to know. I reminded them that as philosophers they must take nothing for granted. They had committed one of philosophy’s cardinal sins - they had made an assumption. They assumed it was Karl. It wasn’t. It was Groucho.

From years of reading, looking at art, thinking and chatting with people, including several who in one way or another consider themselves ‘artistic’, the following functions of art regularly came to the fore.

• To fulfil the needs of the artist. For some, earning money is top of the list. Art pays the bills. But equally it might be the expression of an innermost need, a compulsion that cannot be denied.

• Art can be produced simply for the pleasure of so doing - or to fill a wall-space.

• To warn. It can alert us to future danger.

• Art can serve as a reminder of tragic events from our past - ‘lest we forget’.

• The artist is able to help us realise the difference between looking and seeing. Art can reveal.

• Art is able to bring people together, to reinforce a sense of community, of nationality, of common humanity.

• To celebrate beauty, while conceding that notions of beauty vary from person to person, age to age, culture to culture.

• Art is capable of asking life’s big questions, those perennial mysteries that are our constant companionsphilosophy through the back door.

• Art speaks many languages, but without the need for words.

So what is art for? Was G Marx right? NO. He may have known all about Duck Soup, but as for Jam - think again Groucho.

salvage Father Figure

TRUST myopic HC to approve the demolition of a perfectly serviceable 300-bed hotel to make way for a German supermarket that looks like a car showroom, effectively reducing the cathedral city’s tourism accommodation by 40 per cent. The retail sales of prepared Peking Duck, Hungarian Reisling and Portuguese Pastel de nata clearly outweigh the cultural needs of foreign visitors wanting to view our Mappa Mundi or attend this summer’s Three Choirs Festival.

Belated commiserations to conservationists at SAVE Britain’s Heritage, which experienced near-identical myopia from retailer Marks & Spencer, determined to demolish its flagship store at London’s Marble Arch to make room for err…. a department store of the same height and retail capacity. SAVE (partnered by Architects Journal) lost after lodging an Appeal, despite providing the Inspector with compelling evidence about the shocking waste of energy through what is known as ‘embodied emissions’ (ee) on the demolition of the old Art Deco-era store and the cost and site assembly of the new materials. Like bystanders at a motorway pile-up, Michael Gove and Sadiq Khan just stood and watched. M&S was finally given the green light by Angela Rayner as her boss was away, schmoozing with autocratic east European climate change nay-sayers at yet another COP love-in. Pritzker prize winners Anne Lacton and Philippe Vassal’s oft-quoted mantra ‘Never demolish, never remove or replace; always add, transform and reuse’ is one that the Deputy Prime Minister might reflect on.

Though not in the same rarified architectural league as Lacton and Vassal, the works of the little-known Belgian maverick designer Marcel Raymaekers (born 1930) are starting to receive international recognition. Some are even suggesting that he may well be the Founding Father of the architectural salvage movement, with many of his reclamation schemes being recorded for posterity by the Flanders Architecture Institute, Antwerp in its illustrated historical survey Ad Hoc Baroque , published in 2023. Raymaeker’s pioneering salvage work pre-dates by almost two decades the partnership formed between Adrian Amos and Geoffrey Westland, creators of LASSCO in the redundant East London church of St Michaels and All Angels. But while LASSCO and its followers were essentially ‘salvage yards’, where the customer did the searching, purchasing and removal of the chosen item (and was then saddled with the much bigger challenge of persuading his builder to incorporate the item into the structure) Raymaekers offered a bespoke design-and-build service, often waiving his fee. This so infuriated the Belgian architectural establishment that it alerted the tax authorities and the rogue reclamation specialist was bankrupted. But he soon bounced back.

Marcel Raymaekers’ stamping ground was principally Brussels and Liege. Affronted by the wholesale demolition of residential streets which had survived WW2, he created the salvage reclamation company Queen of the South on a 20-acre site at Hasseltweg in Flanders and set to – often with the help of aspiring building owners – to build ad

hoc dwellings which conformed to no particular architectural style, but which respected and repurposed salvaged elements. Bauhaus his results certainly weren’t, though the seemingly spontaneous conjunction of contrasting materials – granite, brick, timber, glass – often bore uncanny echoes of some of the minor masterpieces of the American brothers Charles Sumner and Henry Mather Greene. Sadly, their Arts & Crafts-inspired holistic architecture never crossed the Atlantic – there were far too many American self-made millionaires who craved bespoke residences. The successful partnership ended when Charles moved to Mount Carmel Heights in California, initially to supervise the construction of a residence for a wealthy client, then latterly to design and build for himself a fortress-like dwelling set into the rocks above the Pacific Ocean. He claimed that some of its granite elevations were influenced by watercolours he had seen of Tintagel Castle. Today it is the home of Brad Pitt.

It was inevitable that the salvage market would eventually embrace the internet, though to date the only really professional one I’ve come across is the very well designed Vinteriors site, an international conglomerate of 2000 vintage and antique sellers from 80 countries. Current pick of its collection is a 55-year-old Eames ‘dentist’s chair’ priced at a cool £5,500.

Invisible Hub BS READERS with long memories could be forgiven for asking “Whatever happened to our Transport Hub?” A modest enough proposal which was first aired by the independent pressure group Rail for Hereford nearly a decade ago. The short answer to that question is: “Not a lot.” Back in November 2023 international engineers Ove Arup & Partners mounted a one-day display in Hereford Town Hall of its designs for the longawaited £7-million transport interchange, to be sited on the forecourt of Hereford Station. Hubs across Europe are usually pretty sophisticated affairs, catering for users of all modes of transport - car, bus, train and bicycle – backed by real-time reports of train and bus destinations, arrivals and departures. There are taxi ranks, self-drive agencies and secure cycle storage. Hereford’s will merely be a cluster of futuristic bronze-coloured bus shelters with token landscaping. Seventeen months on and the cleared site remains untouched. Equally troubling is the un-cared for state of this Listed building’s cavernous first floor, which once provided not one but two private rail companies’ boardrooms, offices and living accommodation for the station manager. Now its only occupants are pigeons.

Nick Jones

Ad hoc baroque: Marcel Raymaekers’ Belgian redoubt

a view from the marches

Ludlow Town Wally

LUDLOW is often described as the best-preserved historic town in Britain. By any measure it’s a cornucopia of examples of English domestic, fortified and religious architecture. An important element of its construction is the existence of the mid-13th century stone Town Walls, which enclose Ludlow in extensive remaining sections, including the rare Broad Gate. The hundreds of thousands of visitors who come annually to enjoy the ancient town often return time and again and love it. The vast majority of those who live in Ludlow also love it and are justly proud of it, except, it seems, the Clerk of Ludlow Town Council.

With a small cabal of three town councillors, leaving the rest of the Council largely in the dark, this surprisingly well-renumerated individual has been doing everything within the powers of a servant of a small town council to give the impression of allowing a significant section of the historically important Town Walls to lie in ruins.

A section of the wall where it edges the old burial ground to the north of St Laurence’s Church abruptly collapsed in 2013 as a result of a build-up of water behind the wall, The Town Council had previously repaired the wall mistakenly using impermeable cement instead of the lime mortar which would have allowed the water to seep out. The ruined wall presents several significant dangers. The wall to the east of the damaged section is still standing but described in the structural report commissioned by the Town Council as in a “tenuous” condition and could be subject to further collapse. It is also entirely possible that the loose soil in the burial ground will follow the pull of gravity and start slipping northwards. The North Transept of the church does not have some of its foundations on bedrock, but on compacted soil which without support is susceptible to erosion by subsurface water, posing a danger not only to the North Transept but also to the magnificent tower itself, which is buttressed by the transept.

Responsibility for the maintenance of the Town Wall beside the burial ground passed incontrovertibly to the predecessor of the Town Council as a result of a 19th century Act of Parliament, but following the 2013 collapse, the Town Council attempted to pass liability for its repair and maintenance to Shropshire Council. At a meeting in 2015 with lawyers present from Saint Laurence’s Parochial Parish Council, the Diocese of Hereford, Shropshire Council and Ludlow Town Council it was agreed by all three parties that the Town Council was solely and exclusively responsible for the wall. In the 10 years that have elapsed since no move whatsoever has been made by them to repair or even estimate the cost of what may be necessary. In 2017 the Town Council, at a cost of £38,000 to Ludlow residents, commissioned a structural report from the Morton Partnership. This was delivered in 2021 but its contents were not revealed to the public or even most of the town councillors until December 2024. And then only after substantial pressure from the PCC,

Ludlow residents and the Town Walls Trust, some turning up at a full council meeting to demand that this important document was made public. Finally, it was released in a redacted form, followed shortly after, with more pressure, in its complete version.

The inertia of the town Council up to this point is, on the face of it, beyond credible and utterly inexplicable. The only possible reasons for it appear to be that the Town Clerk and the small cabal of councillors are resolutely unwilling to face the actuality of the position, or that the Clerk lacks entirely the competence to deal with the problem and has simply shoved her head in the sand, refusing to take any initiative or responsibility in the forlorn hope that by some miracle it will just go away. If readers would like to see proof of this, they need look no further than the press release currently on the Town Council website – if it isn’t taken down the moment this piece appears in your fearless Broadsheep. My enquiry of the Town Clerk regarding the Council’s responsibility evoked, through a third party, a predictable, “No comment.”

It isn’t clear whether or not the Town Clerk has any positive regard for the ancient and cherished town to whose council she is supposed to be answerable (although, oddly enough, to no-one else). Although having accepted liability for the Town Walls in 2015, in January this year she claimed categorically for the first time that the Town Council will act only on a “no liability basis” – a complete reversal of the previously accepted position. The Town Clerk works for, is employed by, and should take her instructions from the members of the Town Council.

Unfortunately, the current crop of councillors seems to have either no spine, nor any concept of its own responsibilities and allows the Clerk to tell them what to do, even to taking votes over the structural report without having been allowed to see it!

Forty years ago, Ludlow was the background to a television comedy, “Blott on the Landscape” by Tome Sharpe, which showed a small town in an absurdly farcical light.

That was humorous fiction.

Regrettably the current crisis in Ludlow and the potential disasters it might trigger are neither. As for the Town Clerk? What a Wally!

POWYS

Sidney Nolan Trust, The Rodd, Presteigne LD8 2LL 01544 260149

2 April - 29 June ‘Nolan’s Africa’. Follow SIDNEY NOLAN through Africa as we reveal the fascinating backstory of the artist’s 1963 African Journey exhibition. Experience the mid-century influences Nolan was absorbing and channelling into his paintings: the legacies of colonialism, war and conflict, globalisation, and animal extinctions.

2 April - 5 July ‘Utility to Futility’ explores how objects, through their form and materiality, challenge our understanding of functionality. Glass, wood, and metal intertwine to create works that, despite their familiar appearance, are fundamentally unusable. SACHA DELABRE, AXELLE MARY, BIM BURTON & IZZI LOMBARDO. Tues-Sat 11am-4pm.

River Wood Gallery & Bookshop, West St, Rhayader LD6 5AB 07807 906958 www.riverwood.studio

Selling original artwork, prints and cards of ink paintings by JAMES ROBERTS. New and secondhand books, all on the theme of wildlife.

Open Wed-Sat 11am-4pm.

Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 01544 370637 or 01544 262864

5 April Grand Spring Sale. Clothes, vintage, collectables, books and jumble. Pop-up cafe with tea, coffee and cake. Open 10am-2pm. £1 entry in aid of Shelter Cymru and Knighton & District Refugee Support.

Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown 01686 625041 www.orieldavies.org

April ‘Everything Changes, Everything Stays the Same’. Photography from the National Collections at Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru with contemporary responses by GEMMA GREEN HOPE, MOHAMMED HASSAN, GEORGIA RUTH, local writers and others. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm.

Radnorshire Museum, Temple Street, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5DL 01597 824513

The museum houses an art gallery with varied exhibitions and events.

Open Wed-Sat 10am-4pm.

Tower House Gallery, 29 High Street, Knighton LD7 1AT 01547 529530

Gallery, shop, cafe. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

Celf O Gwmpas, Centre Celf, Tremont Road, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EB 01597 822777

Until 10 April Celf o Gwmpas exhibition by Celf i Bawb.

17 April - 29 May Diversity National Contemporary Quilters Group. Open Tues-Thurs 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm. Brecon Museum, Art Gallery & Library, Glamorgan St, Brecon LD3 7DW 01874 6233346

Until 1 June Over 70 artists are represented such as SIR RICHARD COLT HOARE, THOMAS HORNOR, JOSEF HERMAN, IWAN BALA, RADOVAN KRAGULY, SALLY MATTHEWS, JOHN UZZELL EDWARDS, IVOR DAVIES, MARY LLOYD JONES, DAVID JONES, SHIRLEY JONES & ERIC RAVILIOUS. Open Mon-Fri 10am-4.30pm, Sat & Sun 10am-4pm. Wonderwool Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells LD2 3SY 07980 913972 www.wonderwoolwales. co.uk

26 & 27 April Wonderwool Wales. A special installation to mark the 80th anniversary of VE day. Everything for those who are interested in wool and natural fibre crafts. Workshops on both days to be booked online in advance. Livestock, breed societies and street food. Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4.30pm.

Chatwood, Celf gan Osian Gwent (Art by Osian Gwent), No. 6 Long Bridge Street, Llanidloes SY18 6EE 0800 999 1953 www.osiangwent.com

Exclusive and original paintings by Welsh contemporary artist OSIAN GWENT. Luxury works of fine art, paintings and limited edition fine art giclee prints. Open Wed 10am-2pm, Thurs 11am-5pm, Fri & Sat 11am-3pm.

Found Gallery, 1 Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7LB 07736 062849

www.foundgallery.co.uk

Until 5 April ‘Threads’.

To coincide with Brecon Women’s Festival. Featuring a collaboration between EMMA BEVAN, LIZ DAVIS, CAROL KAY & MARY WRENN. HELEN CRAWFORD, SUE HILEY HARRIS, MICHAEL HOWARD, HANNAH HUGHES - textile artists. JO HUGHES & LOUISE SALE - artists. TIM LAKE - potter. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

The Hay Makers, St John’s Place, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BN 01497 820556

Until 11 May JEREMY JAMESceramic sculptures. ROSE FAREY - rush-work. LISA MARIE GRIGSBYfloral art. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

Lion Street Gallery, 6 Lion Street, 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.

The Table, 43 Lion Street, Hay-on-Wye 01497 822802 www.thetablehay.com

Until 19 April MARY MABBUTT.

26 April - 17 May CHARLES MacCARTHY. Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.

The Chair, 10 High Town, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5AE 01497 822802 www.thechairhay.com

Until 13 April ‘The Welsh Girl’. 14 - 27 April CHARLES MacCARTHY.

28 April - 4 May SUE WALEScolourful paintings. Weekly artist led exhibitions can be found at www.thechairhay.com/ exhibitions and please message me if you would like to be considered for selection Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.

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. Open Wed-Sat 10am-4pm.

Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Near Newtown 01686 688369

April ‘Seen: Unseen, What Lies in Between’. JUNKO BURTON & DR JUNE FORSTER.

April‘ The Plight of the Curlew’. In collaboration with Curlew Connections Wales.

April ‘People Like Us’.

A portrait exhibition. Cafe. Open Wed-Sun 11am-4pm.

Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East Street, Rhayader LD6 5ER 01597 810561 www.carad.org.uk

From 10 April TimeScape. Rhayader’s redeveloped and expanded museum. See CARAD.org.uk or FB CARAD for activities. Thurs-Sat 10.15am-last entry 3.15pm. Entry adults £6.

Celia de Serra. Chapel Gallery, Bromyard

Chris Williams, Apple Store Gallery, Hereford

Richard Gilbert, Croft Castle National Trust, Yarpole

‘The Longest Yarn’, Wonderwool Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

Lynda Jones, Old Chapel Gallery, Pembridge

Lucy Algar, Art Shop & Chapel, Abergavenny

Minerva Arts Centre, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 413467

Until 21 April Vintage Style Fair.

26 April - 24 May ‘Now and Then’. LINDA & LAURA KEMSHALLretrospective and new work.

26 April - 24 May Gallery 2. Work by CHRISTINE NEWMAN, MARIE SCHWARZ, CAROL SHENTON & JULIE WOOD. Open Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

Knighton Museum, 1 Broad Street, Knighton

Run by volunteers and reflects social history of the area. The exhibits have been donated or lent by local people and reflect the varied history of this border town. Wed-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

The Art Shop, Cross Street, Abergavenny NP7 5EH 01873 852690

5 April - 31 May ‘Drawing Performance’. LUCY ALGAR, ink drawings on paper, sketchbooks and small paintings. Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-5pm.

Museum of Modern Art, Tabernacle, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth SY20 8AJ 01654 703355 info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk

Until 5 April ‘Under Milk Wood’. BONNIE HAWKINS.

Until 5 April ‘Thin Slithers’. PHIL WHEELER.

Until 5 April ‘Hanging by a Thread’. ALISON LOCHHEAD.

Until 5 April ‘Dylan Thomas’. The Tabernacle Collection.

5 April - 7 June ‘Darnau o Ddaear’. GIOVANNA VINCIGUERRA.

5 April - 7 June CLYDE HOLMES (1940-2008): ‘Uplandscapes’.

12 April - 14 June ‘Darnau o Ddaear’. MOSS CARROLL.

12 April - 14 June ‘Slate Workers’. BRENDA JONES.

12 April - 14 June The Tabernacle Collection: David Gepp’s Imperfect Transcriptions.

12 April - 14 June Llechi/Slate. Tues - Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Ardent Gallery, 46 High St, Brecon, LD3 7AP 01874 623333

A wide variety of artwork. Open Tues-Sat 11am-5pm. Court Cupboard Gallery, New Court Farm, Llantillio Pertholey, Abergavenny NP7 8AU 01873 852011

ROSIE FAREY & MANDY COATS - baskets. SUSAN GALLAGHERpaintings. Open 11am-4pm.

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

Made in Ross, Market House, Ross on Wye, HR9 5HL www.madeinross.co.uk

A co-operative of local art and craft makers. Open 10am-4pm.

History Store, 58 Friars St, Hereford HR4 0AS

1 April - 28 Sept ‘The Sensational Museum’. Inspired by the collaboration of the Sensational Museum co-production group.

Old House Hereford, High Town, Hereford HR1 2AA

April ‘Come Dine With Thee’. A seasonal look at recipes and dining etiquette from the 17th-20th century.

1 April - 25 June ‘Highlights Case: Flowers’. Floral art.

Steiner Academy, Much Dewchurch, Hereford HR2 8DL

5 April Spring Fair. Artisan stalls, face painting, willow weaving, children’s clothing. Cake, drinks, barbeque. Open 11am-3pm.

Old Mayor’s Parlour, Church St, Hereford www.oldmayorsparlour.com Until 11 May Spring Exhibition. SARAH WATTS - lampwork, jewellery. GABY DEVITT - woven homewares. CATHERINE VAN GIAP - mosaics. MARIETTE VOKE - paintings. BECKY MILLIKIN - ceramics. JAN BRUCEsculpture. Tues-Sat 10am-4pm.

The Chapel Gallery, 2 Forbury Chase, Sherford St, Bromyard HR7 4DL www.chapelgallerybromyard.com

5 - 13 April ‘A Room of One’s Own’. CELIA DE SERRA, CLAIRE MALET, DEB CATESBY, ERIN CONEL, FIONA POTTER, JANE TUDGE, JULIE COOPER & LUCY GRESLEY. They work in a wide range of media: oils, graphite, precious silver, old tin cans and more. Open 11am-5pm with pop-up cafe.

Weavers Gallery, Church Lane, Ledbury 07881 926661

5 & 6 April Sale of artwork and books. 10am-3pm.

28 April - 4 May ‘Nine go Painting’. WEST MALVERN ARTISTS. Open Mon 12pm-4pm, Tues-Sun 10am-4pm.

The Floodgates Bar, Ground Floor Terrace of The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford HR4 9DG herefordartisanmarket@gmail.com

12 April Spring Artisan Market. Open 10am-3.30pm.

Lyde Court, Hereford HR1 3AE 01432 357753 www.lydecourt.com

6 April Children’s Market. Toys, clothes, handmade essentials, pre-loved items. Open 10am-4pm. 27 April The Crafty Flea Market. Open 10am-4pm.

The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford 01432 340555

Until 31 May V & A presents: SIMON CARROLL (1964-2009), Hereford’s Ceramicist.

Open theatre times.

The Forum, 18 Market Square, Tenbury Wells WR15 8EA 01584 810085 www.georginafranklin.co.uk

GEORGINA FRANKLIN - jewellery. Individual contemporary design. Commissions undertaken.

The Regal, 49 Teme St, Tenbury Wells WR15 8AE 01584 811442

5 April & 3 May Plants & Table Top Sale. Plants, crafts, books, paintings and more. Open 10am-1pm, free entry

Take 4 Gallery, 30 The Homend, Ledbury HR8 1BT www.take4gallery.com

Arts and Craft gallery run by a cooperative of 22 artists and makers including blacksmiths and basket makers, painters and photographers, sculptors and ceramicists, jewellers and textile artists. Basket maker HELEN MUNDAY, blacksmiths STEPHEN MCRAE and SADIE SNOWDROP STAR, ceramicists CLAIRE BILLINGSLEY, STEVE FREER, RUTH BUSBRIDGE and FIONA O’NEILL, mixed media artists CHERYL HEWITT and HELEN NORMAN, jewellers SAM HEMMING, SUSAN WILKINSON and HAZEL MATHIOT, painters DAVID COPE, IVAN JONES, TRUDI FOGGO and JO DEWAR, photographer CRAIG DODDS, sculptors ALAN RICHARDSON and NICK HELME, textile artists SARAH FREER and DI WEISSBERG and wood turner KEITH BRITTEN. Open Mon–Sat 10-5pm.

Greenstage Gallery, Bromtrees Hall, Stoke Lacy, Bromyard, Herefordshire, HR7 4HZ 07977 574383

info@greenstagegallery.co.uk www.greenstage gallery.co.uk

Original and contemporary art. Open by appointment.

Bocam Gallery, Space 10, Bastion Mews, Union St, Hereford HR1 2BT 07929 206707 www.bocamgallery.com Modern contemporary, pop, street art, prints. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-4.30pm.

Walenty Pytel Gallery & Studio Tour, near Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7SB 01531 634102 walentypytelgallery@ gmail.com www.walentypytel.com

You will receive a printed guide to all of Walenty’s outdoor sculptures in Herefordshire to visit at your leisure. Bronze and original steel sculptures can be purchased in the gallery as well as signed limited edition prints, cards and his book Walenty Pytel Life/ Art/Sculpture. By appointment only. Groups welcome.

Wobage Makers Gallery, Upton Bishop, Ross-on-Wye HR9 7QP 01989 720495 www.wobage.co.uk Pots, prints, jewellery, willow and wood. Handmade at Wobage workshops. Part of Forest and Rivers Open Studios Arts Trail and Herefordshire Art Week. BEN CASSON - furniture and kitchenwood. LYNN HODGSON - wood carving and kitchenwood. PATIA DAVIS - slip decorated earthenware and porcelain.

JEREMY STEWARD - wood-fired salt-glazed stoneware and porcelain. PETRA STEWARDwood-fired salt-glazed stoneware and collagraph prints. CLYDE JEFFERSON - willow basketry. CLAIR HODGSON - gold, silver and semi-precious stone earrings. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm.

Old Stable Gallery, Leominster Tourist Information Centre, Corn Square, Leominster 01568 616460 April ‘Vibrant Impressionism’. Work by ‘Pirate’ PETE HEPPENSTALL who passed quietly away at home in January. All proceeds will be given to Cancer Research UK.

Mon-Sat Open 9.30am-4pm.

Wellington Social Club, Hereford HR4 8AX 07377 728822

5 April Map Morning. Old Wellington maps will be on display. 10am-12pm, free entry.

Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral 01432 374200

Until 5 April ‘Seeds of Eternity’. Celebrating 17th century poet Thomas Traherne.

Until 24 April ‘Between Heaven and Earth’. Icon paintings by PETRO BIROV A& CHRISTINA WATSON.

14 April - 27 Sept ‘An Apostolic Institution: 800 years of St Ethelbert Almshouses’. Exploring the cathedral’s Almshouses and their history.

Mon-Sat Cathedral Tours 11.05pm & 2.15pm, £6 per person. Selected dates Tower Tours. 218 steps contact office for details, £10 adults, £5 for children under 16, £8 full-time students.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm.

Gallery 54, 54 High Street, Ross-on-Wye 01989 567917

April New work from RACHEL SUDWORTH, JO JENKINS & LEYLA MURR. Gallery artists featuring STUART ELLIS, STEPHEN RIPPINGTON, JOHN MAXWELL STEELE and TESSA HOUGHTON. Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm.

Croft Castle National Trust, Yarpole, near Leominster HR6 9PQ www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Until Oct ‘Ghost Trees’ Artwalk in the park and exhibition celebrating Croft Castle’s ancient trees. RICHARD GILBERT, SARA-JANE ARBURY & PAUL LIGAS - installations, drawings, poetry and photographs. Open daily, 10am-5pm.

Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1, Rockfield Road, Hereford HR1 2UA 01432 263937 www.applestoregallery.com

Until 26 April ‘A Year at Hergest’. CHRIS WILLIAMS. Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm.

Old Chapel Gallery, East Street, Pembridge HR6 9HB 01544 388842 www.oldchapelgallery.co.uk

Until 30 April Spring exhibition. New works by LYNDA JONES & JOANNA GRIFFITHS - oil on canvas. TAMSIN ABBOTT - stained glass. SIMON RICH - crystaline ceramics. BARBARA SHAW - textile collage. JUSTINE ALLISON - gilded porcelain. REBECCA LEWIS - silver jewellery. TRISH WOODS - patinated pewter. Throughout the year ‘Splendour in the Grass’. An ever-changing collection of unique sculptures for your outdoor space in a variety of media including carved stone, resins, bronze, glass, ironwork, stainless steel and ceramics. Wed-Sat 11am-4.30pm, Sun 12-4pm.

SHROPSHIRE

Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow 01584 878141

Until 3 May ‘Memento Vivere’. EMMA BARNARD, showcasing Emma’s contemplative musings, offering a raw and intimate perspective, alongside the refiined works of her fellow poets. Mon-Sat 10am-7pm.

Aardvark Books & Cafe, The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell SY7 0DH 01547 530744 www.aardvark-books.com

19 April Aardvark Easter Event. A full Aardvark market with over 20 stalls. Live music and much more. Open Tues-Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays 10am-4pm

St Lawrence’s Church, Ludlow www.ludlowartsociety.org.uk

Until 7 April LUDLOW ART SOCIETY. Talented artists once again will be presenting their works to the public in this eclectic show.

Open 10am-5pm.

Studio & Gallery, Quality Square, Ludlow SY8 1AR 01584 751277

www.abigailhumphriesart.com

April ABIGAIL HUMPHRIES - mixed media, figurative pieces and some traditional oil paintings. Open Tues, Thurs-Sun 10am-4pm, Mon & Wed appointment only.

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall 01588 630023

www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk

Until 15 April JENNY ASHMORE.

5 April Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm. 19 April - 20 May - ANDREW JENKIN.

3 May Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

Alice Draws The Line, The Old Forge, Brampton Bryan SY7 0DH www.AliceDrawsTheLine.co.uk Cards, tea towels, mugs, gifts. Open when the lights are on!

SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321

April SARAH SLATER.

Open Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12pm.

The Willow Gallery, 56 Willow Street, Oswestry SY11 1AD 01691 657575

Until 26 April Spring Open Exhibition 2025.

3 May - 28 July Borderland Visual Arts & Open Studio Weekends 2025. www.borderlandvisualarts.com

Open 10am-4pm, closed Sun / Mon. 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

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, The Music Hall, Market Square, Shrewsbury SY1 1LG 01743 258881

Until 30 April ‘Sun & Fire - Life and death at the dawn of history’. 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

Nina & Co, 10 Church St, Ludlow SY8 2JH 01584 877792

Decorative antiques and vintage. Open 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

The Artists’ Gallery, Upper Floor, Ludlow Farm Shop (formerly Ludlow Food Centre), Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR 07974 652866 www.theartistsgalleryludlow.co.uk Instagram @galleryrunbyartists Facebook The Artists’ Gallery Artists include SHELLY PERKINS - wildlife artist. PRISCILLA HANNbronze sculpture. KIM DAVIS - wood turning. PAUL BURTON - sculpture in steel, glass and stone. PIP JONESwatercolours. SARAH BILLINGHAMpottery. ALICE SAVERY - watercolour and pen botanicals. LAURA-JAYNE - jewellery metalsmith.

7 April - 4 May Visiting artists include HELEN ARTHUR - paintings. ALISHA DAVIDSON-MORTIMER - willow. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm.

Art & Craft Workshops

Single, dated listings are free. Ongoing workshops, £45 per year.

KNIGHTON PAINTING & SKETCHING GROUP We meet Monday daytime at the Civic Centre, Knighton (near the Clock Tower) during spring and autumn terms. We have weekly topics with friendly tuition. All abilities, beginners welcome. Learn at your own pace. Discover new skills and increase your confidence. Own choice of art materials. Contact artist tutor: Audrey Bradley: 01544 350369.

STONE CARVING WEEKENDS WITH LOTTIE O’LEARY

Suitable for all ages and abilities. Come and carve something for your home or garden. Cost of £270 includes the stone, all refreshments including scrummy lunches and cake and expert tuition. Maximum 6 on a course, run from Lotties workshop in Knucklas, near Knighton. Courses for 2025 are 21st and 22nd of June, 2nd and 3rd August, 4th and 5th October. www.lottieolearystonecarver.co.uk 01547 528 792. Email Oleary.lottie@gmail.com

ALEX ALLPRESS POTTERY STUDIO - POTTERY

EXPERIENCES & LESSONS

Church Street, Builth Wells, LD2 3BS. Open 7 days a week. Bespoke family days. Throwing workshops and courses. Children’s parties, corporate festivities, hen dos, Hand-building, gift sales and vouchers available. From £40pp - tasters - half day or full day. Call for details: 07443 875016. email alexallpressceramics@gmail.co.uk, www.alexallpress.co.uk

MOOR HALL STUDIO - BOBBY BRITNELL

Inspirational art and textile related courses delivered throughout the year by highly qualified tutors. Some courses are online and others face to face. Refer to www.bobbybritnell. co.uk for further information and details of all courses. Contact Bobby Britnell on 01547 510664 or email at bobby@ bobbybritnell.co.uk

JAPANESE FLOWER ARRANGING Workshops, lessons, demonstrations to groups/societies and Gift Vouchers by Teacher and Master of IKEBANA (Ohara School) Noella Plasman-Jones. Visit www.discovering-ikebana.com or message me on 07379 499984.

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, Upholstery, Felting, Rag Rug Making, Sculpture, Stone Carving, Dichroic Glass, Plant Dyeing, Natural Dyes, Herbal Medicine, Suminagashi, Rush Basketry, Creating a Sketchbook, Jewellery, Glass Fusing, Hand Bloc Printing, Sewing, Stained Glass, Weaving, Linocutting, Painting and Drawing, Japanese Woodblock, Printmaking, Weaving Wire, Woodcarving and Pottery. For full details visit www.creativebreaks.co.uk Make it yourself - take it home - treasure it - or give it with pride!

STONE CARVING WORKSHOPS

Monthly in Llangarron, HR9 6PH. Glenn Morris sculptor leads an informal, friendly group. Suitable for beginners or those with some experience. Tuition, tools, refreshments and safety equipment provided, small piece of stone included in “Beginners Day”. Gift Vouchers available. Contact frances@ artsinthemarches.co.uk 07917 522253

Tues 1 April

CREATIVE JUICE

Craft Club. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 6.30-8.30pm, www.thejam-factory.com

Tues 1 & Wed 2 April PYSANKY UKRAINIAN EGG

DECORATING WORKSHOP

Run by artist Helena Orlowski and Nataliya Cummings. Traditional wax-resist Ukrainian Easter Egg. Kingsthorne, Hereford, 10am-1pm, £45, all materials supplied with Ukrainian herbal tea and lunch, 07963 090838.

www.experienceukraine.co.uk 10% profits will be donated to grassroots Ukrainian organisations.

Fri 11 April

DRAWING PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP

Led by performance designer/artist Lucy Algar and dancer/choreographer Kirill Burlov. Participants can encounter and enjoy responding through expressive drawing. No experience necessary, a desire to connect with others through movement and mark making is all that is needed. Upstairs at the Chapel, The Art Shop & Chapel, Market St, Abergavenny, 10am-4pm, £95, includes lunch and materials, booking essential, 01873 852690.

Sat 12 April

MARCHES SCRIBES CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP

Uncial variations with tutor Mary Noble. Monkland Village Hall, Leominster HR6 9DD, 10am-4pm, £20 members, £25 visitors.To book please ring 01544 327657.

Thurs 24 April THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

Followed by spring animal crafts. Watch the charming animation followed by a fun making session. £3.50 per child or £6 for 2 children. Accompanying adults FREE but

please book a place so we know for seating arrangements, 10.30am-12.30pm. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 01588 638038

Fri 25 April BOOK ARTS WORKSHOP

With experienced bookbinding tutor Guy Begbie. A workshop suitable for participants both with or without previous bookmaking experience. Upstairs at the Chapel, The Art Shop & Chapel, Market St, Abergavenny, 10am-4pm, £95, includes lunch and materials, booking essential, 01873 852690.

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

Sat 26 & Sun 27 April

WONDERWOOL WALES

Everything for those who are interested in wool and natural fibre crafts. Workshops include Moebius Knitting with Kath Andrews, An Introduction to Indian Block Printing, Art Yarns - Corespinning with Sarah Stacey, Dorset Buttons and Peg Loom Weaving with Sharon Smith. Bringing Eyes to Life in needle felting with Emma Fountain. Beaded Keyrings and more. Workshops on both days to be booked online in advance. Wonderwool Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4.30pm, £13, under 16s free, 07980 913972, www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk

Mon 5 May

ART WALK INCORPORATING OPEN STUDIOS

Led by Mark Harrell. Talgarth car park to St Ellwys Church, Llanelieu. Participating artists include Sue Milne, Niel Bally, Christopher Twigg, Beverley Thornley, Andy Thornley, Mark Harrell, Nicola Hopwood and Carolyn Blake. Part of Talgarth Walking Festival, 07943 616453, www.talgarthwalkingfestival.org

Sat 17 May MARCHES SCRIBES CALLIGRAPHY

Beginners Course. Monkland Village Hall, Leominster, 10am-1pm, £15 for the course. Booking essential. For more information/to book, please ring 01544 327657.

April & May OXFORD ARMS

3, 10, 17, 24 April, 1, 15 & 22 May - Inner source painting workshop, using poster paint, newsprint etc. 6.30pm8.30pm, contact hildachurch@mail.com for details and prices. 2 April - Sunflower Social - A hidden disabilities support group and network, 10am-12.30pm, free. The Oxford Arms, Kington, 07301 081444.

April ORIEL DAVIES GALLERY

The gallery will be closed until the spring. However, work will continue in the community during this time. Check the website for upcoming events. Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown, 01686 625041, www.orieldavies.org

April & May MID WALES ARTS CENTRE

12 April - Tetra Pak and Chine Colle Printing with Elin Crowley,10am-4pm, £75. 18 - 20 April - Firing Weekend Coiurse with Evan Jones. 19 April - Intaglio Printing with Sara Philpott, £75. 26 April - Cyanotype Printing with Joe Purches, £70. 30 April-2 July - 10 week Introduction to Ceramics Course, £200. All courses 10am-4pm. Every Wed - Talking Art, artists talk about their work, 2-4pm, free. Weekly Pottery Club, Thurs 2-4pm & 7pm-9pm (term time), Fri 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Thurs - After School Club, 4.30pm-6pm. 2nd Sat of each month, Family Pottery, 2pm-4pm, booking essential. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Newtown, 01686 688369.

April HEREFORD MUSEUMS

14 April, ‘Things that make a noise’. 12 May, ‘Things that sparkle’. - Baby Pips, sensory play, storytelling and fun activities for ages 0-2 years. History Store, 58 Friars St, Hereford, 10.30am-12pm 14 April, ‘Big things, little things!’. 12 May ‘What’s under our feet?’ - Little Pips for ages 2-5 years, 2pm-3.30pm. Easter Holidays‘Blooming Bliss: Spring Flowers’, family friendly, handson activities suitable for ages 3+. Old House, High Town, Hereford, drop in, free with entry. 12 - 27 April - Spring Trail, Old House, High Town, Hereford, during opening hours. 16 April - Easter Card Making, 10am-4pm. 23 April - Easter Badge Making, 10am-4pm. www.herefordshire.gov.uk

April LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS

17 & 24 April - Anne’s Art Club: Easter Crafts, suitable for ages 4-11 year olds, 10am. 4 & 11 April - Painting and Drawing with Helen Antill, 2pm-4pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 01584 878141.

April EASTNOR POTTERY

INTRO TO THE POTTERS WHEEL £60 per person. Perfect indoor activity for individuals, couples and small groups. 1.5 hr sessions take place 4 & 11 April. POTTERS WHEEL COURSES 5, 12, 16, 25, 26 & 27 April. Day £180. Weekend £340 per person. Spend the day or weekend relaxing and creating pots on the potter’s wheel. CLAY MODELLING 15 April 11am and 2pm. £40 per person. Themed Pottery Fun for all the family. Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor, near Ledbury. Check and book online, www.eastnorpottery.co.uk admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk or 01531 633886.

April CARAD

First Tues of the Month - Craft Workshop for ages 11+. 1.30pm-3.30pm, free. Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East Street, Rhayader LD6 5ER 01597 810561, www.carad.org.uk

April SIDNEY NOLAN TRUST

5 April - Cultivate. Monthly Youth Arts Programme for ages 11-18. Sidney Nolan Trust, The Rodd, Presteigne, 10am-2pm, details, www.sidneynolantrust.org

April THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

Tues - Playing Together, interactive play session for older adults and pre-school children with parents/carers, 11am12pm, £3. Thurs - Hereford Life Drawing, 10am-1pm, £8. The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford, 01432 340555.

April SHREWSBURY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

First Sat of the month - Create and Connect. Bringing together refugee and local families in a fun environment, 1.30pm-3pm, for ages 4+, £3. Until 25 April - Early Years Storytelling Workshop - Sun and Fire. using storytelling, music, art and roleplay, 10am-12pm. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Market Square, Shrewsbury, 01743 258881.

April HEREFORD CATHEDRAL

8 & 29 April - Lego Club, 3.45pm-5pm, free. 24 AprilEaster Messy Church, stories, song, prayers and a selection of crafts and activities, 12pm-2pm. Mondays term time - Toddler Group, craft activities and prayer; suitable 1-3 years, 9.30am, free. Thurs (term time)Cathedral Seedlings new toddler group for ages 1-3 years, 10am-11.30am. Hereford Cathedral, 01432 374225.

April/May 2025 STAINED GLASS COURSES

With Nicola Hopwood. Long weekend workshops for beginners and those with some experience, in a lively and supportive atmosphere. 12 - 15 April & 17 - 20 May 2025. Brilley, near Hay-on-Wye, £300 per person (plus materials). 01497 820177, email info@nicolahopwood. co.uk, www.nicolahopwood.co.uk

April - September JAPANESE PAPER MARBLING at The Birches Farm, Kington. Try your hand at the art and craft of suminagashi with like-minded folk in a calm and creative space. Take home many sheets of decorated paper for use in bookbinding, collage and other paper arts. Cake and coffee on tap (bring your own lunch). April 5th, May 17th, June 21st, July 12th, August 9th, September 27th. See website for details: sarahamatt.com

April, May & June

ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY COURSES

2 April - Texture and Surface: Clay, £130. 7 April - Introduction to Printmaking, £170. 15 April - Natural HIstory Illustration: Dragonflies (online), £70. 15 April - Natural History Illustration: Ferns The Lower Plants (online), £130. 28 April - Sculptural Baskets, £80. 30 April - Digital Textile Design, £100. 12 May - Sketchbook Studies: A Slate Experience (held in Corris, Powys), £130. 12 May - Natural History Illustration: Feathers, £75. 13 May - Working with Trees, £70. 13 May - Express Yourself Painting (held in Newport, Pembrokeshire), £130. 12 June - Colour Choices, £130. 24 June - Approaches to Landscape Painting, £130. 30 June - Figure to Landcape; The Interplay of Form, £160. All running over several weeks. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, Penglais Campus, 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

Thursdays KNIGHTON ART GROUP Any level welcome. Any medium accepted. Lunch served from 12pm. Knighton Community Centre, 1-3pm, £3 per session. Kay Yendole, 07624 379335.

Tuesdays LIFE DRAWING For all ages. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7-9pm, £8, louisediggle@gmail. com

Tuesdays DRINK AND DRAW Weekly life drawing group for all abilities. Bring your own materials and just turn up. Upstairs at The Green Dragon Hotel, Broad St, Hereford, 7-9.20pm, £8, 07587 192495.

Wednesdays INFORMAL ART GROUP All welcome, help given if required. The Old School Community Hub, New Radnor, 2-4pm, 01544 350242.

MICKEY 17 (15) – 137MINS

Oscar-winning writer/director Boon Jong Ho specialises in disparate, subversive and frankly unlikely plots, e.g. Snowpiercer, Parasite, and Mickey 17 is his most outlandish yet. In debt to a terrifying loan shark, in the nearish future young Mickey Barnes (Robert Pattinson, Tenet, The Lighthouse) elects to join an overtly Trumpian, messiah/despot, Kenneth Marshall and his overbearing wife, Yifa (Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight, and Toni Collette, Little Miss Sunshine) traveling to a distant planet which will become their Elysium. However the price of Mickey’s journey is as an ‘expendable’, someone who can die or be killed then replicated to live, or rather work another day for the Marshalls’ benefit. Unfortunately the planet Niflheim is a snowy wasteland only inhabited, as Mickey discovers to his deathly cost, by aggressive, armadillo-like ‘creepers’ and the bulk of the film finds Mickey in his 17th (and 18th) incarnation challenging the Marshalls’ increasingly unhinged strategies to deal with them. By turns hilarious, shocking, morally ambiguous and sci-fabulous, Mickey 17 should not be missed.

Reviews by Mark Williams

Until 10 April A COMPLETE UNKNOWN (15)

2 - 9 April HARD TRUTHS (12A)

4 - 8 April MICKEY 17 (12A)

5 April JUNGLE BOOK (1967) (U) (free pre-activity from 10.30am)

11 - 17 April CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD (12A)

14 - 16 April GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE (15)

14 April ERASERHEAD (1977) (15) Radix Film Club. David Lynch Season.

19 April THE ELEPHANT MAN (1980) (12A) David Lynch Season.

28 April LOST HIGHWAY (1997) (18) David Lynch Season.

29 April THE STRAIGHT STORY (1999) (U) David Lynch Season.

3 May MULLHOLLAND DRIVE (2001) (U) David Lynch Season.

17 April - 1 May MR BURTON (ctbc)

23 April HARVEY (U) Classic Film

28 April - 1 May ONE TO ONE: JOHN & YOKO (ctbc)

28 April - 1 May FOUR MOTHERS (ctbc)

The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford 01432 340555

2 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Cardington VH 01694 771295

ABERGAVENNY FILM SOC.

2 April GOODBYE JULIA

Melville Centre, Pen y Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD. www.abergavennyfilmsociety.com

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW

3 April I’M STILL HERE (15)

7 April THE LAST SHOWGIRL (15)

12 April JANET BAKER IN HER OWN WORDS

John Bridcut’s acclaimed portrait of Britain’s greatest classical singer. Part of The Ludlow English Song Weekend. 14, 15, 17 April BLACK BAG (15)

16 April A BOUT DE SOUFFLE (BREATHLESS) (15) Nina & Co Vintage Film Night. Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow, 01584 878141

BOOTH’S BOOKSHOP, H-O-W

4 - 10 April MR BURTON (12A)

Richard Booth’s Bookshop, Hay-on-Wye. 01497 822010

BRECON FILM SOCIETY

7 April HERE (PG)

5 May THE NETTLE DRESS (12A) 7.30pm, Brecon Coliseum Cinema, Wheat St, Brecon. 01874 620642

CONQUEST, BROMYARD

25 April THELMA (12A)

2 May PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard. 01885 488575

COURTYARD, HEREFORD

2 April ANORA (18)

Until 24 April COTTONTAIL (PG) Until 7 April CONCLAVE (12A)

3 April THE OUTRUN (15) Brilley VH 01544 327227

4 April BACK TO BLACK (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

4 April CONCLAVE (12A) Fownhope New Memorial Hall 01432 860717

4 April CONCLAVE (12A) Chetton VH 01746 789239

5 April LE GENOU DE CLAIRE (PG) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

5 April DIE MARQUISE VON O (PG) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

5 April MA NUIT CHEZ MAUD (PG) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

5 April SWIMMING WITH MEN (12A) Ombersley Memorial VH 01905 620350

5 April CONCLAVE (12A) Chapel Lawn VH 01547 530258

6 April LES NUITS DE LA PLEINE

LUNE (15) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

6 April PAULINE A LA PLAGE (15) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

6 April CONTE D’ETE (U) Malvern Theatres 01684 892277

7 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) The Red House, Albrighton 01902 373854

7 April THE PROBLEM WITH PEOPLE (15) Claverley VH 07967 540531

7 April KEEPING MUM (15) Welshpool Assembly Room 01938 552043

7 April PAST LIVES (12A) Coalbrookdale & Ironbridge Community Centre 01952 433287

8 April THE GOOD LIAR (15) Ashford Carbonell VH 01584 831574

8 April SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE (12A) Garway Hall 01600 750465

9 April ANYONE BUT YOU (15) Hope Bowdler VH 01694 721376

9 April THE CRITIC (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

10 April THELMA (12A) Much Birch Community Hall 01981 540097

10 April THE OUTRUN (15) Leintwardine Community Centre 07572 442903

11 April WILDING (PG) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

11 April FIREBRAND (15) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

11 April CONCLAVE (12A)The Simpson Hall, Burghill 07726 148736

11 April ADDICTED TO SHEEP (PG) Habberley VH 07977 127161

12 April FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL (15) Little Witley VH 01886 888122

12 April CONCLAVE (12A) Lady Emily Hall, Tarrington 01432 890720

12 April CONCLAVE (12A) Cawley Hall, Eye 07771 798712

12 April WICKED (PG) Bayston Hill Memorial Hall 01743 872096

12 April WICKED (PG) Clifton on Teme VH 01886 812238

15 April CONCLAVE (12A) Acton Scott VH 07485 655898

16 April CONCLAVE (12A) Myddle VH 07706 450075

16 April MY FAVOURITE CAKE (12A) The Phoenix Theatre, Ross on Wye 07789 778048

16 April THE GOOD LIAR (15) Burley Gate VH 07852 202353

17 April WICKED (PG) Kinnerley Parish Hall 01691 683619

17 April WICKED (PG) Mayfair Community Centre, Church Stretton 01694 722077

17 April POOR THINGS (18) Castlemorton Parish Hall 01531 631503

Forever doomed by the ‘90s lightweight T.V. crime series Baywatch (and Julian Assange, apologist), Pamela Anderson is here convincingly transformed as Shelley, an ageing dancer in a Las Vegas stage review. Upon learning that the culturally dated show is closing in a fortnight, Shelley clings onto her belief that artistry not titillation is what has kept her motivated for three decades but now faces the twin traumas of penury and irrelevance in a changed world. For sympathy if not support she turns to her best friend Annette (Jamie Lee Curtis) herself struggling as a 60-something, gleefully alcoholic cocktail waitress and her stage manager Eddie (Dave Bautista, Dune) with whom she has, erm, ‘history’, with the added burden of assuring her estranged daughter Hannah (Billie Lourd) that her life still has merit. Directed by Frances Ford Coppola’s granddaughter, Gia (Mainstream), this is an often moving, sometimes wickedly amusing story of diminishing certainties, cultural revisionism and nascent feminism with standout, nuanced performances from both Anderson and Lee Curtis.

18 April THE UNLIKELY

PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY (12A) Marton VH 01743 792790

18 April FIREBRAND (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

21 April AS WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT (15) Coalbrookdale & Ironbridge Community Centre 01952 433297

22 April THE MAN IN THE HAT (12A) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

23 April MOANA 2 (PG) Shropshire HIlls Discovery Centre, Craven Arms 01588 676060

24 April ONE LIFE (12) Almeley VH 07913 992911

24 April KEEPING MUM (15) Silvester

Horne Institute, Church Stretton 07429 237955

24 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Ash VH 07900 093562

24 April THE CRITIC (15) Goodrich VH www.goodrichvillagehall.co.uk

24 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG)

Mayfair Community Centre, Church Stretton 01694 722077

25 April WICKED (PG) Clungunford VH 01588 660159

25 April THELMA (12A) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard 01588 488575

25 April SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE (12A) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

25 April AND THEN COME THE NIGHTJARS (15) Bosbury Parish Hall 01531 640333

25 April CONCLAVE (12A) Colwall VH 07891 668124

25 April DARKEST HOUR (PG) Mamble VH 07740 971374

26 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273

26 April THE LOST KING (12A) Waverton VH 01244 336055

26 April THE CRITIC (15) Rodington VH 01952 771147

26 April PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Chapel Lawn VH 01547 530258

26 April GREENFINGERS (15) Trefonen VH 01691 657011

29 April THELMA (12A) Loppington VH 07932 737967

THE HAFREN, NEWTOWN

30 April CONCLAVE (12A) The Hafren, Newtown, 01686 948100

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

4 April BACK TO BLACK (15)

9 April THE CRITIC (15)

18 April FIREBRAND (15)

Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

OLD MARKET HALL, SHREWS.

Until 3 April BONHOEFFER (12A)

Until 3 April I’M STILL HERE (15)

4 - 17 April MR BURTON (12A)

13 April THE SUMMER WITH CARMEN (18)

10 - 17 April THE CHOSEN: LAST SUPPER PART 1

17 April NEIL YOUNG: COASTAL

18 April - 1 May THE PENGUIN LESSONS (12A)

18 - 26 April SNOW WHITE (PG)

2 & 3 May ANORA (18)

Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281

PHOENIX THEATRE, R-O-W

16 April MY FAVOURITE CAKE (12A)

Phoenix Theatre, Palace Pound, St Mary’s St, Ross on Wye, 01989 564570

PRESTEIGNE SCREEN

11 April THE ECHO (12A) www.presteignescreen.org.uk Assembly Rooms, Presteigne.

REGAL, TENBURY WELLS

2 April THE LAST SHOWGIRL (15)

Regal, Teme St, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442

SAVOY, MONMOUTH

7 - 10 April SEPTEMBER 5 (15)

18 - 24 April MR BURTON (12A) Savoy Theatre, Church St, Monmouth 01600 772467

SHREWSBURY FILM SOCIETY

11 April R.M.N. (15)

25 April RYE LANE (15)

The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

SHROPSHIRE HILLS DISCOVERY

23 April MOANA 2 (PG)

Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, School Rd, Craven Arms 01588 676060

SPARC, BISHOP’S CASTLE

24 April THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Followed by spring animal crafts. Watch the charming animation followed by a fun making session. £3.50 per child or £6 for 2 children. Accompanying adults FREE but please book a place so we know for seating, 10.30am-12.30pm. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 01588 638038

WYESIDE, BUILTH WELLS

5, 9, 10 April BLACK BAG (15)

13 April A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (12A) Film Club

18 April - 18 May MR BURTON (12A) 20 - 24 April LAST BREATH (ctbc) 20 & 27 April DOG MAN (U)

25 April - 20 May THE PENGUIN LESSONS (12A) Wyeside, Builth Wells 01982 552555

LIVE EVENTS ON SCREEN

1 April TURANDOT

The Royal Opera. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.15pm, 01584 811442. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.15pm, 01600 772467. Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, 7.15pm, 01743 281281. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.15pm, 01432 340555. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.15pm, 01686 948100. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 611622. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.15pm, 01885 488575. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.15pm, 01584 878141. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.15pm, 07967 517125.

2 April BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 7pm, 01982 552555.

3 April THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

National Theatre. The Hafren, Newtown, 7pm, 01686 948100.

3 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre encore with captions. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, 01584 878141. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7pm, 01584 811442.

3 April BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7pm, 01952 728911.

4 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre. Montgomery Town Hall, 7.30pm, 01686 668442.

6 April TURANDOT

The Royal Opera. Booth’s Bookshop Cinema, Hay-on-Wye, 2pm, 01497 822010. Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 2pm, 01982 552555. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, 01588 638038.

6 April BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4.15pm 01600 772467.

6 April SIX THE MUSICAL LIVE! From London’s Vaudeville Theatre. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm, 4.30pm & 7pm, 01432 340555. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 2.30pm & 7.30pm 01600 772467.

8 April SIX THE MUSICAL LIVE! Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm 01600 772467.

10 April THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

National Theatre. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, 01584 878141.

10 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre encore with captions. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555.

12 April THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7pm, 07967 517125.

12 April ANDRE RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4pm 01600 772467. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7pm, 01584 811442. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281.

12 & 22 April ANDRE RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

‘The Dream Continues’ The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm, 01432 340555.

13 April SIX THE MUSICAL LIVE

Recorded at the Vaudeville Theatre and featuring the six original West End Queens. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 5pm & 8pm, 01743 281281.

13 April ROMEO & JULIET

Royal Ballet. (Encore). Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622.

13 April ANDRE RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm 01600 772467.

15 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 611622.

15 April JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

Filmed in the UK during the Live Arena Tour. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

17 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281.

18 April THE DAWN OF IMPRESSIONISM: PARIS 1874

Exhibition on Screen. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, 01584 878141.

19 April ANDRE RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 7pm, 01982 552555.

19 April DR STRANGELOVE

National Theatre live. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570.

20 April ANDRE RIEU’S 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 2pm, 01982 552555.

20 April A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN: THE MUSICAL Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4.30pm 01600 772467.

23 April VAN GOGH: POETS AND LOVERS

Exhibition on Screen. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622.

23 April MACBETH Filmed at The Donmar Warehouse. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm 01600 772467.

24 April DR STRANGELOVE National Theatre. The Hafren, Newtown, 7pm, 01686 948100.

24 April A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN: THE MUSICAL Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm 01600 772467.

26 April LE NOZZE DI FIGARO Metropolitan Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6pm, 01432 340555.

27 April A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN: THE MUSICAL Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 2pm, 01982 552555.

1 May A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN: THE MUSICAL Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells 7pm, 01982 552555.

1 May BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm 01600 772467.

4 May BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4.30pm 01600 772467.

WORKSHOPS

Every Tuesday YOUTH CAFE

Young people (8-16) can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970. Wednesdays FILM MAKING CLUB For ages 11-17. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6-7.30pm, £75 per term, 01432 340555.

50,000+ titles; North Herefordshire’s largest indie bookseller; We buy

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. Open Bank Holiday Mondays.

www.aardvark-books.com Aardvark Easter Event 19th April 2025

A full Aardvark market with over 20 stalls, with live music from Jack Brett & Red Madog (11am-2pm) and much more.

Entry and Parking.

Dawn of Impressionism

dance Dance Performance

Wed 2 April

ANTON DU BEKE AT THE MUSICALS

An evening of dance and music from classic West End and Broadway shows. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £58.85-£40.15, 01743 281281. Fri 25 & Sat 26 April

COPPELIA

THE ENGLISH YOUTH BALLET brings a charming and colourful adaptation of Arthur Saint-Leon’s exquisite original. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £33-£27.50, 01743 281281.

Dance Workshops

Single, dated listings are free. Year round entries £45.

ASSEMBLY ROOMS DANCE CLASSES

Weekly - Circle Dancing, no partner required, 1.453.45pm, £5, contact Kathryn 01584 877446. WeeklyGKY Dance. Dance and acrobatics for children, various classes, 4-9pm, £4.75-£6.25, contact Grace Young 07939 638637. Weekly - Learn 2 Jive, beginners 7.30-8.30pm, intermediates 8.30-9.30pm, no partner needed, £6, contact Matt info@coolmovesdance.co.uk. Zumba - 7-8pm, £5, contact Honor 07527 183231. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow, 01584 878141.

CONTEMPORARY DANCE WITH 2FACED DANCE COMPANY AT THE CENTRE FOR MOVEMENT, GAOL STREET, HEREFORD HR1 2HU

Wee Movers: Age 4 - 6 years, Mon 16:30 - 17:15. Mega Movers: Age 7 - 10 years, Mon 17:20 - 18:20. The Kin Project: Boys and those who identify as male, age 7 - 16 years, Wed 18:15 -19:30. Teen Contemporary: Age 11 - 18 years, Tues 17:00 - 18:00. 2Faced Youth: Age 11 - 18 years (audition only), Tues 18:00 - 21:00. Beginners Contemporary Flow: Age 18 years +, Wed 19:30 - 21:00. Improvers Contemporary Flow: Age 18 years +, Mon 19:30 - 21:00. www.2faceddance.co.uk / 01432 620032 admin@2faceddance.co.uk

PINSLEY MILL MORRIS

Women’s Northwest Morris and clog, are looking to welcome more dancers. We meet every Tuesday at 8pm, Kingsland Village, HR6 9SQ. No experience necessary! Email PinsleyMillMorris@gmail.com for more details, or just turn up. Come and join Herefordshire’s newest Morris side!

LEARN 2 JIVE 50’S SWING STYLE CLASSES

Mon - Bartestree Village Hall, Hereford, 7.30pm. Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton, 7.30pm. Tues - Pembridge Village Hall, 7.30pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm. Claines Parish Hall, Worcester, 7.45pm.

Wed - . Holy Trinity Parish Hall, Malvern, 7.30pm. Thurs - Ledbury Dance Studio, Bye Street, 7.30pm. Abberley Village Hall, 7.30pm. Penybont Community Centre, 7.30pm. Castle Hall, Bridgnorth, 7.30pm. Thurs (starting 9 Jan) - Lindy Hop Introductory 6 week course, Bodenham Parish Hall, 8pm. Fri - Gentle Jive, Bartestree Village Hall, 10.15am. Sun - Eardisley Village

Hall, 6.30pm. 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.

COURTYARD, HEREFORD CLASSES

Adult Classes. Mon - Contemporary Dance with LG Dance, 6.30pm. www.lauragale.co.uk. Mon - Commercial Dance with LG Dance, 7.30pm-8.25pm, £25 per month. Mon - Zumba, 11am-11.45am. Tues - Commercial Dance with LG Dance, 6.30pm-7.25pm, £25 per month. Tues Heels Class with LG Dance, 7.30pm-8.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Street Jazz with LG Dance, 6.30pm. www.lauragale.co.uk Wed - Fit4Tap, 10am-10.45am. Thurs - Silver Swans Adult Ballet, 1pm, www.starlightcompany.co.uk Fri - Chance to Dance, 10.15am. Junior Classes. Mon - Junior Contemporary for ages 7-12, 4.30pm, £25 per month. Mon - Senior Contemporary for ages 13-18, 5.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Junior Commercial, for ages 8-12, 4.30pm, £25 per month. Tues - Senior Commercial for ages 13-18, 5.30pm, £25 per month. Wed - Mini Streetz for ages 4-8, 4.45pm, £23 per month. Wed - Junior Streetz for ages 9-12, 5.30pm. Wed - Senior Streetz for ages 13-24, 6.30pm, £25 per month. Fri - Dancing Tots for ages 2-4, 11.30am. Sat - Twinkling Stars for ages 2-4 incorporating Makaton sign, musical movement, sensory play and fun, 9.30am. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

DANCE WITH ALANYA Shimmy Central Adult Belly Dance. All levels welcome. Bodenham Parish Hall, HR1 3LB. 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 1-3pm. £14 pay-as-you-go, bookings by the previous Wednesday. Move with the Groove Upbeat Dance Exercise. Classic tracks from Disco to Swing - follow-on steps or do your own thing. Meet and make friends. Kingswood Village Hall, HR5 3HE. Mondays, 11.00am-12.00 noon £8 drop-in, or £24 per 4-week block. For full information visit http://alanyadance.uk or call Abbie on 07962 161081, alanyadancer@gmail.com

SILVER SWANS ADULT BALLET CLASSES

Adult Ballet and Low Impact Tap classesThe Larruperz Centre, Ross-On-Wye, Tuesdays 1:30 -2:30 Silver Swans Ballet, 2:35-3:20 Adult Tap. Adult Ballet Class 2Faced Dance Centre for Movement, The Old Court, Gaol St, Hereford; Wednesdays 6:15 - 7:15pm. All ages and beginners welcome, £7 PAYG/Drop In. Tel: 07854793960. Email: creativefitness20@gmail.comcreativefitness.org.uk

Fortnightly Saturdays CHORUS LINE Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561.

Mondays REGAL DANCE Join Katy for weekly lessons in the Regal Studio. Ages 6-9 years, 4.15pm-5pm. Ages 10-14 years, 5pm-6pm. Regal, Tenbury Wells, £6, www.regaltenbury.co.uk

Tuesdays, Thursdays - Saturdays MID WALES DANCE ACADEMY Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 07943 417561. Tuesdays SOLO LATINO DANCE Parish Hall, Hay-on-Wye, 7-8.30pm. Mely 07837 160505. 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

Daphne’s, Presteigne

MR Pernickety always enjoys a dip in the quirky, boho air of Presteigne, where he feels he will always find a few folk of like-mind – anthropologically anxious and politically perplexed. Inevitably this particular air circulates within the bars and eating-houses, which makes Mr P and his Lovely Companion feel at home. But before he heads over the border to Pays des Galles, he must draw his readers’ attention once again to the destructive manoeuvring of the nefarious English Pubco, Punch Taverns. Up until around ten years ago, The Blue Boar in Ludlow’s Mill Street, although a charming old building, was an horrific dump of a boozer, full of loud thumping music, raucous expletives delivered by young men AND WOMEN) working swiftly towards a visit to the vomitorium (the street outside), with a nasty sticky texture to the carpets, while on the door lurked men of stout tattooed fore-arms and threatening demeanour. It was so disruptive that the police closed the place and insisted that the owners, Punch Taverns, do something about its management. To huge local relief and approval they granted a tenancy to Adam Tutt, who already operated the Thai Bar and Restaurant. He soon had the Blue Boar functioning as a peaceful, comfortable, more or less perfect town pub. At a point where it was doing consistently well, the pubco got greedy (normal form) and decided that they should have more of the take than they were already getting. They terminated Tutt’s lease and have now announced that they will

revert to managing it themselves, as they did in the past. They will run it to sell the maximum gallonage of beer by attracting the foul-mouthed, drunken louts that previously infested it and vomited in the gutter. Mr Pernickety may be perceived as a stuck-up old fart, but he knows what most people in the town would prefer. The sooner Punch Taverns go bust the more chance of saving the traditional English pub from extinction.

Meanwhile, back in Presteigne, the corner premises opposite the Assembly Rooms currently occupied by Daphne’s, has been through several incarnations in Mr P’s time, but a chirpy American sprite with the pleasing moniker of Autumn has been wielding her pizza paddle here for five years. This staying power is reflected in the extraordinary quality and originality of the pizzas she bakes. Mr P cut his pizza teeth in the original Pizza Express in Soho in the 60s, and has witnessed that once great idea and its products sadly deteriorate into corporate blandness. The pizzas Autumn makes could not be less bland. Mr P’s came on a perfect base, firm and crusty-edged, whose topping somehow throbbed with the natural tastes of Mother Earth – a source of great excitement to him, along with a salad stuffed with strong, unknown and delicious flavours. Even the sourdough garlic flatbread with which he and the LC kicked off was special and almost a meal in itself. The ambience is lively, gossipy – in quirky boho way – warm and welcoming. You’d have to be a member of the Reform party not to enjoy it. Daphne’s is probably the best place in the Marches in which to eat a pizza. Mr P hopes Autumn lingers on for a long time to come.

Mr Pernickety Post Scriptum.

Mr P and his Lovely Companion have just come home from a few days in Somerset, staying at perhaps the most authentic old coaching inn of the region, Nothing has ever been done to alter (or spoil) the original charm of the Talbot Inn in Mells (with a ‘M’) in that county. Everything about it is right, including a top-notch chef. It is surely worth a detour to any aficionado of Mr P’s gastro-ramblings.

EVENTS

Sat 5 April CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP

With chocolatier Ray Farr. Enjoy an evening making your own chocolate creations. Museum of Cider, Ryelands St, Hereford, 6pm, £25 includes a glass of cider or prosecco, 01432 354207, www.cidermuseum.co.uk/events

Thurs 10 April TRADITIONAL INDIAN THALI NIGHT

Newton Court Cider, Newton Lane, Hereford, HR6 0FN, 6pm, 01568 611721, www.newtoncourtcider.com

Fri 11 April CHEFS TASTING DINNER

Six-course dinner, £55, optional wine flight £25. Tables from 6.30pm. The Cliffe at Dinham, Ludlow, 01584 872063.

Fri 25 April TAPAS NIGHT

Charles’ Bar, Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, from 6pm, 01432 353552.

Sun 27 April KINGTON MARMALADE COMPETITION

Entry forms from Bee’s Knees Cookshop or The Grapevine. The Oxford Arms, Kington, judging and results from 12.30pm, free, bar, cafe, 07301 081444.

April & May LUDLOW BREWERY

5 April - Wild Street Kitchen, 12pm-5pm. 18 April - The Fish Heads: Good Friday fish and chips, 12pm-6pm. 21 April - The Beefy Boys, 12pm-5pm. 26 April - Martin Lovell Street Food, 12pm-5pm. 5 May - RJ’s Smoke Shack, 12pm-5pm. Ludlow Brewery, Station Road, Ludlow, 01584 873291.

April LYDE COURT

Every Thurs - Mothers & Toddlers for brunch, 11am-1pm. Every Fri - Ladies Who Lunch, for coffee, lunch or vino. Every Fri & Sat - Dog Social, 11am-3pm. Cafe open every Thurs-Sun, 10am-4pm, 01432 357753.

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 January & July) VILLAGE MARKET & CAFE

Bacon rolls, cake, hot drinks. Regular stalls selling pies, cakes and baked goodies., honey, floral designs, crafting supplies and more. Cedar Hall, Dilwyn, 10am-12pm.

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 HELLENS PRODUCE MARKET Local products and enjoy a breakfast. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 9.30-11.30am, 01531 660504, www.hellensmanor.com

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 BRECON FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET Brecon Indoor Market Hall, 9.30am - 4pm. 07926 196714.

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. 01547 520332.

3rd Saturday of every month FARMER’S MARKET Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 9am-1pm, 01588 630023.

1st Thursday EVENING FARMER’S MARKET

The Barn, Ledbury, 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.

Every Friday & Saturday from 5pm STEAK NIGHTS

Floodgates Restaurant & Bar, Left Bank Village, Hereford, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

FOOD BYTES

Why not advertise? Only £45 per year.

AARDVARK BOOKS LTD, THE BOOKERY, MANOR FARM, BRAMPTON BRYAN, BUCKNELL 01547 530888 Cafe serving refreshments, cakes etc. Tuesday - Sunday 10am-4pm and Bank Holiday Mondays. 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.

RHOS MARKET GARDEN, KNIGHTON

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. Organic veg boxes delivered to collection points in Presteigne, Knighton and Beguildy. rhosorganic@outlook.com www.rhosorganic.co.uk

THE WORKHOUSE CAFE, INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, PRESTEIGNE 01544 267864 Cafe, gallery, light lunches, good coffee, homemade cakes. Wed-Sat 10am - 4pm. YARBOROUGH HOUSE BOOKSHOP, 5 MARKET SQUARE, BISHOP’S CASTLE 01588 638318 Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10.30am-4.30pm and every Bank Holiday. Teas, coffees, cappuccino, latte, home made cakes. Also 3000 classical cds many reduced. 4000 books and artist’s cards.

YE OLDE TAVERN, KINGTON 01544 231417

Food served Wed-Fri 5pm-9pm, Sat 12pm-9pm, Sun 12pm-8pm. Thursday Steak Night, 8oz Rump and a drink, £14.50.

APRIL

Tues 1 April

MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS

A special show of big beats, visual treats and vital energy. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £32, 01743 281281.

PADDINGTON TRIO

Schubert’s Final Masterpiece. Programme includes Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Schubert. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Wed 2 April

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

FOREST BAROQUE

Free lunchtime concert for 45 minutes of music. Feel free to bring along your lunch, laptop, work. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 1pm, free admission, retiring collection.

Thurs 3 April

WEIRDSHIRE GIG

Featuring Raymond MacDonald and Jer Reid. Impro saxophone and guitar. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm, £10.

OPEN MIC

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

LEGEND: THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY

An evening celebrating this musical icon in a stage show extravaganza. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £33, 01743 281281.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Round 1. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

OPEN JAM NIGHT

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

Fri 4 April

KIDS PARTY LIVE

Presented by Sunshine Festival, suitable for all ages. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 5pm, £12.50, under 16s £10.50, 01584 811442.

COLOURS FASHION SHOW

Raising money for Bishop’s Castle Tennis Club. High street clothing in a range of sizes to suit all ages. Refreshments/raffle. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm, £6 or two for £10, 07880 334612.

JAM ON TOAST

Jamming session. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

MIMI & THE BLUE NOTES

Jazz classics. Old Street Tavern, Ludlow, 8pm, £6.50, from the bar or www.oldstreettavern.com.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. Hundred House Inn, Purslow, 8pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@ hotmail.com

BOWIE EXPERIENCE

Direct from London’s West End, this concert celebrates the sound and vision of David Bowie. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm.

FLEETING RUMOURS

Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits. Plus guests TOTO. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

HAY MUSIC

‘The Golden Age of Harp’. Experience the rare magic of a harp quintet. Former Royal Harpist and Classic FM Rising Star Alis Huws returns to Sinfonia Cymru to lead an ensemble of harp, flute, violin, viola and cello in a programme featuring French and Belgian gems from the golden age of harp music and pieces from Wales and the USA inspired by the natural world. Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm. Tickets/details at www.haymusic.org. A limited number of free tickets for under 25s are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

CELTIC SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, 8pm.

THE BLOCKHEADS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

KINSTRIFE

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 409126.

THE STRIPLIGHTS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES

Programme includes Mendelssohn, Elgar and Brahms. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.

BOURBON ALLEY

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

Sat 5 April

THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW

Celebrating the music of BB King, Clapton, Hendrix, Muddy Waters, Peter Green and many more.

The Malvern Cube, 7.45pm, www.theclassicbluesshow.co.uk

TOTALLY TINA!

Featuring Justine Riddoch and her cast. This breathtaking recreation of a live Tina Turner concert celebrates the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s incredible songbook. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

DIVAS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

THE HAT & THE FIDDLE

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 409126.

WHISKEY RIVER TRIO

Tiny Rebel Brewery, Rogerstone, Newport, 7-9pm, free.

MARCHES CHOIR & SINFONIA

60 strong choir, virtuoso soloists and orchestra present a musical feast with a distinct operatic flavour. Programme includes Puccini and Borodin. St John’s Church, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, £15, children/students free, 07806 433394, TicketSource or on the door.

THE BIG 90S REVIVAL TOUR

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

ARRIVAL

The hits of Abba. The Hafren, Newtown, £28.50/£26.50, 01686 948100.

ONWARD MUSIC

Drum and bass night. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 07498 966606.

MEGSON

Double winners of the Sprial Earth Awards, Megson bring a unique brand of folk music. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £22, 01743 281281.

LOVE TO SING CHOIR

Pembridge’s Community Choir, Love to Sing Juniors and guests present ‘A Night of the Big Screen’. Pembridge Church, 7.30pm, £10, 01544 388441 or 01544 329760.

MICROBABY

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

SHREWSBURY JAZZ NETWORK

Featuring alto saxophonist and composer Alice Leggett. Her new album, ‘Birdsong’ showcases Alice’s lyrical compositions blending rich storytelling and vibrant improvisation. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, £25, under 22s £12, 01743 234970.

THE MUMFORD AND SONS STORY

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.

TOMMY BLAIZE

50 Years in Music. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £26.50, 01952 728911.

SWING FROM PARIS

Parisian-flavourred jazz and Gypsy swing. Linton Village Hall, 7.30pm, £16, www.swingfromparis.co.uk

Sun 6 April

CHORAL EVENSONG

Leominster Priory, 6pm.

JAZZ AFTERNOON

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 4-6pm.

KINGTON CASTAWAYS

Disc picks come from Beccy and Shaun Haydon from The Border Bean, Kington. The Oxford Arms, Kington, 12pm-4pm, free, bar and cafe open, 07301 081444.

REG MEUROSS

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm.

MARK STEVENSON & FRIEND

Folk with an edge. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm, 01531 632250.

FASCINATIN’ RHYTHM

Piano/vocal duo playing jazz standards on the bandstand. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 2-4pm.

TREDEGAR BAND AND BRIGHOUSE & RASTRICK

Two of the finest brass bands. The Hafren, Newtown, 3pm, £18, 01686 948100.

Mon 7 April

WHISKEY RIVER

Duo, Aidan and Martin. The Folk House, Park St, Bristol, 7pm, £10.

WHISKEY RIVER DUO

The Folk House, Park St, Bristol, 7pm, £10.

MUSIC AT BILL’S KITCHEN

Featuring Aidan Thorne and Toby Hay. Modern folk music inspired by the landscape of Breconshire and Radnorshire. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £10, 01584 878141.

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 07909 290942. Bring drink/glasses.

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

Tues 8 April

MUSIC QUIZ

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm, £2 per person.

BRECON JAZZ CLUB

Featuring Julian Martin Trio & Guests, melodic, cool, creative jazz. The Muse, Brecon, 8pm, £16 on the door, £14 in advance, info@breconjazzclub.org

Wed 9 April

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

Thurs 10 April

WEIRDSHIRE GIG

Featuring Ben ‘Baby’ Copperhead and Chris Cundy, NYC banjo and bass clarinet. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm, £10.

OPEN JAM NIGHT

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Round 2. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

THE BOOM YEH

A thunderous powerhouse of jazz, funk, rock and Afrobeat. The Marr’s Bar, 12 Pierpoint St, Worcester, 8.30pm, www.musicspokenhere.club

Alice Leggett, Shrewsbury Jazz Network

Fri 11 April

FLASH

A tribute to Queen. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7.45pm, over 16s only, 01989 763174.

HAAR

Anglo/Irish folk band bring a radically fresh, boundary-pushing take on traditional songs. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £19, 01743 281281.

PLANT SPECIES + SUPPORT

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

U3

Rock ‘n’ roll and blues from the 60s-80s. Garway Village Hall, 8pm, £10, 01981 580215. Garway Croquet Club’s Pre-Season Bash.

OPERA FOR THE PEOPLE

Victoria Wood meets Pavarotti - Nicola Mills has turned opera on its head in this funny and inspiring show. She combines her down-to-earth Northern roots with singing ‘opera’ in this truly unique show, not to be missed.

Eardisley Village Hall, HR3 6NH. 7.30pm. £12/£6. 07787 333087, Arts Alive.

ROCKFORD

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

ULTIMATE RAVE BINGO

For ages 18+. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 7pm, tickets start from £18, 01432 357753.

GUNS 2 ROSES

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

FIDDLEDEBOP

Original gypsy jazz. Old Street Tavern, Ludlow, 8pm, £6.50, from the bar or www.oldstreettavern.com.

BIG WEEKEND SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, 7pm.

OCG - THE OXNAM/CHAPPLE GROUP

Songs you thought you’d forgotten! Great harmonies, lead guitar and banter from Martin C and Tony O. Hope and Anchor, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm.

ROB LEAR BAND

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 5pm, £3, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm. THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG WEEKEND

Welcome reception for Festival passholders at 6pm. ‘Heart’s Haven’. Andrew Hamilton (baritone) and Iain Burnside (piano). Italian-flavoured selection, 7.30pm. ‘Songs of Auld Lang Syne’. Lute songs from the courts of King James with soprano Mhairi Lawson and lutenist Paula Chateauneuf, 9.30pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms. Guided Tour of St Laurence’s Church, 4.30pm, £5. 01584 878141, www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

THE BLUETONES

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

THE CARPENTERS EXPERIENCE

Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £25, 01600 772467.

ENSEMBLE QUORUM

‘Music for Spring’. New piano, flute and oboe. Programme includes Mozart, Madeleine and Cesar Cui. Bishop’s Palace, Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm, £15, under 18s £5, www.trybooking. com/uk/EJDV or on the door.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Immerse yourself in the ulitmate fusion of rock ‘n’ roll, pop and comedy. A journey through music history from the 50s to the 80s. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 12 April

BIG WEEKEND

Border workshop 10.30am, music workshop, 2.30pm. Monkland Arms, Monkland.

SHREWSBURY CHORAL

Soloists from the Royal Northern College of Music and Shrewsbury Sinfonia. Performing JS Bach’s final choral masterpiecer. Shrewsbury Abbey, 01743 361953.

WHISKEY RIVER TRIO

Clyro Village Hall, 8pm, £10, www.clyrovillagehall.co.uk

Harr

Opera for the People

Sat 12 April

THE FORFEITS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

SPRING SING CONCERT

Featuring Ross Choristers Community Choir. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, £10, 01989 566781 or on the door. Proceeds will go to Air Ambulance.

LIVE MUSIC

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

WELLINGTON BRASS BAND

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 728911.

BLACK CAT STRING BAND + JESSICA RISING

Appalachian Old Time tunes and songs to listen and dance to, with support by local songwriter Jessica. Put on your sailing shoes and join the fun. Freestyle and called dancing. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye. Doors at 7pm. £10 on the door. 07989 898771.

THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG WEEKEND

Talk: The Art of Translation for festival passholders; chaired by Katy Hamilton, 10am. ‘A Lovers’ Tiff’. A journey along the bumpy course of true love with Bethany Horak-Hallett (mezzo) and Dan D’Souza (baritone), 11am. Talk: Dame Janet Baker in conversation with John Bridcut, 4pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms. ‘Buzz!’ Lotte Betts-Dean (mezzo), Brett Dean (violinist and composer) and Iain Brunside. St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, 7.30pm. 01584 878141, www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

JON POLLARD

Sings Roy Harper. West Malvern Social Club, 145 West Malvern Rd, Malvern, 8pm, www.wmsc.org.uk

JOE KELLY & THE ROYAL PHARMACY

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, £8, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

MUSIC IN NEW RADNOR

Pianist Peter Hewitt. Programme will include Beethoven sonatas being played on the Bechstein B grand piano. The Hub, New Radnor (not the village hall), 7.30pm, £15, under 14s £3, 01544 350746, 07493 940683.

ENSEMBLE CYMRU

A series of monthly chamber music concerts lasting 45 mintues. Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, 11am, free, donations gratefully received, 01686 650224.

THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW

Celebrating the music of BB King, Clapton, Hendrix, Muddy Waters, Peter Green and many more. Montgomery Town Hall, 8.15pm, 0300 102 4528.

MAD DOG MCREA

Folk rock, pop. The Lost Arc, Rhayader, 8.30pm, £17.50-£12.50, www.thelostarc.co.uk

THE LINAROL CONSORT OF VIOLS With soprano Heloise Bernard. ‘A Mermaid on a Dolphin’s Back’. Continental music for viols and voice from the time of William Shakespeare. St Michael’s Church, Discoed, near Presteigne, 7.30pm, £22, under 18s £2, 07989 091949, info@earlymusicinthemarches.com

LIVE BLUE GRASS

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm.

OPERA FOR THE PEOPLE

Victoria Wood meets Pavarotti - Nicola Mills has turned opera on its head in this funny and inspiring show. She combines her down-to-earth Northern roots with singing ‘opera’ in this truly unique show, not to be missed.Eaton Constantine Village Hall, SY5 6RF. 7.30pm. £12/£6. www.artsalive.co.uk

THE FILLERS

Tribute to the Killers. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

CANTORION LLANDRINDOD

Faure Requiem. ‘Come and Sing at 11am and finish with a free performance with retiring collection at 3.30pm. Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells. Cost for singers £10 (score provided). To register contact 01597 800601.

SHROPSHIRE BLUES & ROOTS CLUB

Featuring Vera van Heeringen & The Lonesome Tones, plus support from Blue Moon. Ludlow Brewery, The Railway Shed, Station Drive, Ludlow, 8pm, £12 in advance, £15 on the door, www.shropshirebluesclub.com

Sun 13 April

BUSKERS CORNER

The Sun Inn, Clun, 5-8pm. SCHOOL OF ROCK WITH TEACHERS PET LIVE

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

THE LUDLOW ENGLISH SONG WEEKEND

‘Talk: Brett Dean in conversation with Katy Hamilton’ for festival passholders, 10am. ‘Young Artists Masterclass’ with Dame Ann Murray for festival passholders, 11.30am. ‘One that kept his word’. A.E. Housman in songs and letters, 2.30pm. Ludlow Assembly Rooms. Guided Tour of St Laurence’s Church, 4.30pm, £5. 01584 878141, www.ludlowenglishsongweekend.com

PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR

Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 3pm, £5, children free, donations for tea and cakes.

KINGTON FOLK CLUB SESSION

The Oxford Arms, Kington, 12pm-4pm, free, bar and cafe open, 07301 081444. BIG WEEKEND

Massed Morris. Monkland Arms, Monkland, from 12 midday.

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL CHOIR

Performing JS Bach’s St Matthew Passion. Together with Marches Baroque and a renowned lineup of soloists. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, £25 - £18, 25s and under £10, 01432 374210, www.herefordcathedral.org

TOM MCCONVILLE & MICHAEL BIGGINS

BBC Folk Musician of the Year and BBC Scottish Trad Musician of the Year independently. Falcon Mews, Falcon Hotel, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £12 on the door (cash only), huwknightvivbell@ gmail.com for information and to book a seat.

Wed 16 April

DAVE LUKE & CHUCK MICALLEF

Nori’s Cafe, Leominster, £26 with meal, please book, 01584 831386 or email noriscafe@yahoo.com

The Linarol Consort of Viols

Wed 16 April

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

IMAR

BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winners. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £20, 01743 281281.

AMERICANA SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, 8pm.

TELFORD ACOUSTIC SESSION

Hosted by Paul Townsend and Vicki Edwards. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 7.30pm, 01952 610888.

KINGTON CHORAL SOCIETY

Stainer’s ‘The Crucifixion’. St Mary’s Church, Kington, 7pm, free admission with retiring collection., www.kingtonchoral.org.uk

Thurs 17 April

LAURA WILKIE AND IAN CARR

Fiddle and guitar. Both with roots in the Highland traditions and the contemporary folk music scene. The Ale House, Mill Lane, Colwall, 7.30pm, 01684 540366, www.wegottickets.com

THE ENDINGS

Celtic, electric, folk, punk-rock, bluegrass and more. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 01952 610888.

OPEN JAM NIGHT

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Round 3. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

THE SPICE GIRLS EXPERIENCE

Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £30, 01873 850805.

WYNFORD JONES AND GEOFF CRIPPS

Folk. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.

RYAN YOUNG

2022 MG ALBA Musician of the Year nominee, Ryan Young brings new ideas to traditional Scottish music, receiving international praise for his spell-binding interpretations on the fiddle. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Fri 18 April

JOHN DEVEAUX

Rootsy jazz. Old Street Tavern, Ludlow, 8pm, £6.50, from the bar or www.oldstreettavern.com.

THE GERRY CINNA-MAN

Live + special guest. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

PROFESSOR ELEMENTAL & THOMAS BENJAMIN WILD ESQ

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

80S NIGHT LIVE

Jena takes you back to the 80s with classic 80s tunes. Ludlow Brewery, Station Rd, Ludlow, 8pm, £10, 01584 873291.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm.

JAM ON TOAST

Jamming session. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

FRI DECKS

Local DJs Easter special. Oscars, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 8pm, 01584 878141.

THE ALL TONES

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY

Using projection photos and original film footage. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £32.50, 01584 811442.

JAMES OLIVER

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

Sat 19 April

IMAR

Glasgow-based five-piece Scottish folk supergroup. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £17, 01873 850805.

MAGIC AND MAYHEM

Sentiment Rave, The Cellars. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 07498 966606.

TEDDY SWIMZ TRIBUTE

Famous on social media for his covers of iconic songs and captivating original material. Mike Skilbeck, a vocal performer for over 20 years has embraced the persona to become Teddy Swimz! The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £22, 01584 811442.

HEAD HONCHO

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

JACK BRETT & RED MADOG

Aardvark Books Easter Event. A full Aardvark market with over 20 stalls, with live music from Jack Brett & Red Madog (11am-2pm) and much more. Free entry and parking. Aardvark Books, The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, 01547 530744. g

BACK TO THE 80S

With DJ Roddy Hankins. Lyde Court, Hereford, 7pm, £12, 01432 357753.

THE BOB DYLAN STORY

Authentic celebration of the music of Bob Dylan. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24.99, 01743 281281.

JAKE OF DIAMONDS

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

DMF BAND

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 8pm, £8, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

RENEGADES

Rock and alternative with DJ Molby. Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

JOHANNA WARREN

EP release plus Plant Medicine Tour and Dance Party. Folk singersongwriter Johanna collaborates with local herbalists and regenerative farmers to be at every concert, sharing their work and wisdom. Featuring Hay Regenerative Soils, Sophie Ferrier and Lydia Dibben. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7.30pm, £15-£8, 01497 821762.

Sun 20 April

TUNE & STEP SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, 7.30pm.

STEVIE KEYS

The Doughzy Mares will be serving pizzas from 5-7pm. The Vaga, Hereford.

Laura Wilkie & Ian Carr

Sun 20 April

FRONTRUNNER

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

ANGELINA AND THE FANDANGOS

Local favourites with a great mix of covers and originals. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm, 01531 632250. THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

Mon 21 April

EASTER MONDAY ORGAN CONCERT

Hereford Cathedral, 1.15pm, free with a retiring collection. www.herefordcathedral.org

THE OFFICIAL GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

Take a step back into the 1940s, led by veteran band leader and conductor Ray McVay. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 4pm, 01874 611622.

Tues 22 April

WICKED LIVE SHOW & PARTY

Lyde Court, Hereford, 11am-1pm, tickets on sale via The Enchanted Kingdom website, 01432 357753.

Wed 23 April

CORNISH SEA SHANTY

Cornish themed beer and food. The Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, themed food from 5.30pm-8.15pm, to book a table 01531 640954, www.theoakinnstaplow. co.uk

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

WEDNESDAY CONCERT SERIES: LUMAS WINDS

Programme includes Glinka, Bach, Amy Beach, Endre Szervanszky, Franz Danzi, Shostakovich, Timothy Jackson, Luciano Berio and Lalo Schifrin. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £20, £5 under 18s. 01584 878141.

GUTTERSNIPE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

Thurs 24 April

CLUN ACOUSTIC SESSION

The Sun Inn, Clun.

QUIZ

The Balance inn, Luston, 8pm, £2 entry with all proceeds going to charity, 01568 616801.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Hosted by Clare Bennett and Paul Atwell. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 7.45pm, 01952 610888.

OPEN JAM NIGHT

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Round 4. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

CHRIS BOWDEN - THE HYPNOS FILES

Maverick trailblazer with a 30 year career embracing jazz, soul, hip-hop and drum and bass. The Marr’s Bar, 12 Pierpoint St, Worcester, 8.30pm, www.musicspokenhere.club

Fri 25 April

REMI HARRIS AND THE HOT CLUB

Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.

DINNER JAZZ

Pop in for drinks, light bites or book a table for jazz dinner. The Cliffe at Dinham, Ludlow, 7pm, 01584 872063.

THE MULLUSKS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

THE NEW PURPLE CELEBRATION

The music of Prince. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

A FOREIGNER’S JOURNEY

Tribute to Journey and Foreigner. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £22.50, 01584 811442.

ADAM HARDING

Live country music. Cedar Hall, Dilwyn, 8pm, £12 in advance from 01544 319272 or email cedarhalldilwyn@ gmail.com. Table seating and bar.

IAN PROWSE & AMSTERDAM Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. The Rose & Crown, Ludlow, 8pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@hotmail. com

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm.

DANIEL TONG AT 50

This immersive weekend offers the experience to hear all of Beethoven’s major chamber works with piano, violin sonatas, cello sonatas and piano trios. The Great Barn, Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 7pm, www. hellensmanor.com/events

Sat 26 April

DANIEL TONG AT 50

This immersive weekend offers the experience to hear all of Beethoven’s major chamber works with piano, violin sonatas, cello sonatas and piano trios. The Great Barn, Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, coffee plus concert 11.30am, afternoon concert 4pm with illustrated talk at 3pm, evening concert 7pm, www.hellensmanor.com/ events

THE BLACK CHARADE & FELL OUT BOY

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6.30pm, 07498 966606.

EGO FRIENDLY

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

HAY MUSIC

‘Baroque Alchemy’ featuring Red Priest Duo with an extraordinary ‘electrobaroque fusion’. The Castle, Hay-on-Wye, 7.30pm, tickets at www.haymusic.org

HEJIRA

A celebration of Joni Mitchell. Featuring Hattie Whitehead and Pete Oxley in a 7-piece band. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £24.50, 01584 811442.

PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR

St George’s Church, Clun, 7pm, £10, interval with wine and soft drinks on sale, saintgeorgesclun@gmail.com

BREAKING GROUND

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 9.30pm, 01432 360250.

HIGH DIVE

Jaws of Life + Alvin and the Angry Barrells + Butterfly Effect. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

Lumas Winds

South Powys Youth Music (SPYM) is looking for a new Musical Director

SPYM is a small charity offering high quality, low cost, group music tuition, inspiring and nurturing young musicians in South Powys. In an area where there is no county music service, nor any other organisation of its kind, its role is unique in giving young people (7-18) the opportunity to experience and make music together. Currently SPYM offers:

• Term-time weekly sessions at Brecon High School including choir, percussion group, beginner string and brass groups, orchestra.

• Individual subsidised instrumental lessons are available to those attending another SPYM group.

• Shake, Rattle & Roll for pre-school children; an introduction to songs, instruments and movement.

• Outreach sessions, either in schools or at holiday events with opportunities to sing or try different instruments, to sing and to work together in groups.

All our sessions and events are low cost or free; the ethos of SPYM has always been to make music as accessible to as many as possible. SPYM receives no statutory funding and is reliant on grants and individual donations in addition to its modest fees.

We are looking for a charismatic and dynamic individual able to engage with and enthuse children and young people. As the face of SPYM you must be comfortable leading from the front at our concerts and public events and have the ability to inspire collaboration and a unified sense of purpose among tutors, parents and volunteers alike. Working closely with the administrator in the day-to-day running of the charity, you will also collaborate with the trustees to determine its future strategic direction. Active participation in some of the regular sessions and liaison with outside agencies would also be essential aspects of your role. The position would be paid on a part-time self-employed basis.

If you are interested in applying, please send your Expression of Interest to the Administrator by the end of April. Please include your musical qualifications and experience to date plus your thoughts on the following questions:

1. Why is participation in music as a group important for the local community?

2. What is your vision for driving engagement with local schools and with children and families from diverse backgrounds?

3. How would you ensure SPYM’s weekly music sessions continue to be an eagerly anticipated highlight of the after-school timetable?

If you have any queries about SPYM’s activities in general, or about the role itself, please don’t hesitate to contact the Administrator by phone or by email. t: 07814 277 723 e: southpowysyouthmusic@gmail.com www.spym.org.uk www.facebook.com/southpowysyouthmusic

Sat 26 April

BETH PORTER TRIO

A master collaborator, songwriter and cellist. With a classical background, a venture into folk music and a love of simple pop songs, there’s nothing quite like Beth’s songwriting. It is quintessentially English yet understated and original. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 8pm, £15, under 25s £10 from The Workhouse Gallery, Presteigne or www.midborderarts.com

JOHNNY CASH ROADSHOW

Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £28, 01873 850805.

THE BAND OF HIS MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, £30, 01600 719401.

MID WALES R&B CLUB

Present The James Oliver Band, featuring Norman Watt-Roy. The Muse, Brecon, 7.30pm, £20, www.midwalesrandb.club

Sun 27 April

SUNDAY SESSIONS OPEN MIC

Live music from local performers. Hosted by Mike Longmore. Ludlow Brewery, Station Drive, Ludlow, phone 07974 264665 to book your slot.

OPEN MIC SESSIONS

Ludlow Brewery, Station Rd, Ludlow, 4.30pm-8pm, free, 01584 873291.

QUIZ NIGHT

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 7.30pm, £1 per person, 01952 610888.

SHAUN RYDER

From Happy Mondays. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

THE RAINER HERSCH ORKESTRA

Expect an evening of stand-up comedy and great music with Rainer Hersch and special guest Alistair McGowan. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 4pm, £40-£30, under 18s £35-£25, 01743 281281.

QUEERS & BEERS

Monthly meet up. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 5pm.

DANIEL TONG AT 50

This immersive weekend offers the experience to hear all of Beethoven’s major chamber works with piano, violin sonatas, cello sonatas and piano trios. The Great Barn, Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, coffee and concert 11.30am, afternoon concert 4pm, with complimentary talk at 3pm.www.hellensmanor.com/events

Tues 29 April

FLEETWOOD SHACK

Featuring an impressive repertoire of the biggest and most loved Fleetwood Mac hits. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 30 April

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8.30pm.

TRANSATLANTIC HOT CLUB

Relive the decadent Parisian jazz scene of the 1930s. Swing classics, Django standards and Latin Bossa Nova. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.

MAY

Thurs 1 May

OPEN JAM NIGHT

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7.30pm, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

Fri 2 May

SOUND OF SIRENS

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, £16.50, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

COACH PARTY, GIRLBAND! & BOOM BOOM WOMB

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

CLUN VALLEY JAZZ PART 1

Keith Jarrett: A Portrait Performance. Ivo Neame & Elchin

Shirinov together will celebrate with two unique performances from Jarrett’s iconic career. The BBC documentary on Radio 4 paid tribute to this iconic performance & so too will CV Jazz. Join us for this premiere partnership, a dazzling two day anniversary event of 2025. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle. Tickets for both days only online at www.clunvalleyjazz.com

Sat 3 May

CLUN VALLEY JAZZ PART 2

Keith Jarrett: A Portrait Performance. Ivo Neame & Elchin

Shirinov together will celebrate with two unique performances from Jarrett’s iconic career. The BBC documentary on Radio 4 paid tribute to this iconic performance & so too will CV Jazz. Join us for this premiere partnership, a dazzling two day anniversary event of 2025. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle. Tickets for both days only online at www.clunvalleyjazz.com

LOOPFEST

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 12pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

LIKE COMBS UK PRESENTS

Totally Crazy Shania tribute + Shredwin. Ludlow Brewery, Station Rd, Ludlow, 7pm, £20, 01584 873291.

THE SOUL MINERS

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, £12, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

ROCK FOR HEROES

Classic rock anthems with a 7-piece band. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.

Sun 4 May

LOOPFEST

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 12pm, www.albertsshed.co.uk

CLUN GREENMAN FESTIVAL

Traditional Springtime Fayre. Featuring custard Storm (circus and magic). Orly Phillips (aerial hoop workshops). Les Miles de Marches (medieval life). Morris Dancing.. Raise the Dust (Appalachian dancing). Live music by Seas of Mirth, The Endings, Clun Ukulele Band, Haress, The Cherry Stones, Modified Youth, Mice in a Matchbox and Kimberley Lauren. Sunday, free in Clun Square, Monday, ticketed, held on Clun Castle field, £10, children £5, www.clungreenman.org

CHRIS STAPLETON UK TRIBUTE

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

Mon 5 May

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

Brimfield Village Hall, 7.30pm, 07909 290942. Bring drink/ glasses.

CLUN GREENMAN FESTIVAL

See 4 May for details. www.clungreenman.org

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

Music Workshops

Sat 5 April BORDER MARCHES EARLY MUSIC FORUM

A Workshop for Singers. “The Many Faces of Orlando di Lasso”. Tutor: James Weeks. 10am-4.30pm. St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne, Radnorshire, LD8 2AF. Prior booking essential. Details, see www.bmemf.org.uk or contact Marna Gowan at marna.gowan@btinternet.com

Sun 6 April BRECON JAZZ CLUB JAZZ SCHOOL Workshop. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm-5pm, £12, www.ticketsource.co.uk/breconjazz

Sat 12 April ROUND BYRD

St Mary’s occasional choir specialising in music of the 16th and 17th centuries. Experienced singers welcome to join the choir for the afternoon rehearsal at 2.15pm, St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, www.rossparishes.uk/round-byrd

Sat 12 April CANTORION LLANDRINDOD

Faure Requiem. Come and Sing at 11am and finish with a free performance with retiring collection at 3.30pm. Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells. Cost for singers £10 (score provided). To register contact 01597 800601.

Sun 27 April SHROPSHIRE HARMONY QUIRE

A monthly session for singers and instrumentalists exploring the lively music of the church gallery choirs. Led by Andy Watts. We welcome visitors and new members (first session free). Music and recordings available in advance on-line. Lydbury North Village Hall, SY7 8AU, 2pm - 5pm. www.shropshireharmonyquire.org.uk

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

Music Workshops (cont.)

Sundays 5-7pm monthly HARMONY TRIBE leader Sarah Rowe. Sing uplifting rounds/part songs from around the world. For all levels of singing experience, no auditions/ performances. First Sunday in Putley nr. Ledbury: fourth Sunday in Tupsley, Hereford. Info naturalvoice.net/choir/ harmony-tribe. Bookings email harmonytribe@btinternet. com or WhatsApp message 07719 170500.

Monday BANDAMANIA Bright and breezy traditional and original music.Assembly Rooms, Presteigne. Mondays at 7.30pm, Sue Harris 01547 550158.

Monday REGAL COMMUNITY CHOIR All abilities and adults of all ages welcome. Singing popular and traditional songs, led by Pete Thorogood. Regal, Tenbury Wells, 6-7pm, £5 per session, wwwregaltenbury.co.uk

Mondays, term time only THE MERE SINGERS

An open-access mixed voice, adult choir singing original and traditional acapella songs. No need to read music. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, email Mary Keith maryskeith@aol.com

Monday SINGING TOTS Under 1’s, 1pm-1.30pm, parent social 1.30-2pm. Over 1’s 2-2.30pm, £5 per session. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

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.

Mondays, term time only LIVE WIRE MUSIC MONDAYS

An opportunity to play songs with other musicians who are just starting out. Rehearse covers. Ages 11-21. Close House, Hereford, 4-6pm. lisa@encore-enterprises.com

Monday BRECON TOWN BAND REHEARSALS

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7pm, 07779 390954.

Monday YOUTH CHOIR The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.30pm-7.25pm, £26 per month, 01432 340555.

Monday CORVEDALE CHOIR Community choir led by Ros Crouch. Diddlebury Village Hall 7.30-9.30pm. 01584 547385 or ros.crouch@ gmail.com

Monday ADULT CHOIR WITH LG DANCE The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm-8.25pm, £26 per month, 01432 340555. Monday GARRICK SINGERS For over 55s, no prior experience of singing. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3.30pm, £7 per session, lisa@encore-enterprises.com.

Tuesdays LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CHOIR Liv is leading us in learning uplifting songs. World music, jazz, folk, all in the mix. Come and have an inspiring sing, 7pm-8.30pm at Leominster Community Centre. ffi 01568 369074 or email: lccatlcc@myphone.coop

Tuesday BLUE HILLS CHOIR Small daytime choir singing classical music led by Ros Crouch. Diddlebury Village Hall 10-12noon. 01584 547385 or ros.crouch@ gmail.com

Tuesday DOLAU MIXTURES Mixed choir. Dolau Community Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 8pm, 01597 851427. Tuesday WHITTON VOICES Mixed community choir. Traditional, world and original songs. Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 7.30pm. Call Sue Harris 01547 550158. Tuesdays term time only LIVEWIRE SESSIONS

Hereford Town Hall, 5-7pm. A drop-in for anybody interested in music. Whether you’ve never picked up an instrument before or classically trained or not. Explore different song/lyric writing methods, a take on covers, music production, rap, development & recording. Ages 11-21. Information email lisa@encore-enterprises.com

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

Tuesday (term time) LUNCHTIME UPLIFT SINGING

SESSIONS Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 12pm-1.30pm, £6.50/£6, 07723 016837.

Wednesday VETERANS MILITARY CHOIR

The Courtyard, Hereford, 10am-11am, free, booking required, jlowry@encore-enterprises.com

Wednesdays PLAY IT BY EAR

The Pilgrim Centre, Craven Arms, SY7 9NY, 7.30 - 9.30pm. Our sociable group of folk musicians meet fortnightly to learn tunes by ear and then enjoy playing them together! For full details contact Kitty Greenwood: folkfiddleteacher@ gmail.com 01584 841564.

Wednesdays CASTLE VOICES Community choir, songs from around the globe. Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm. Sue Harris 01547 550158.

Wednesday ROCKSPRING COMMUNITY CHOIR

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-9pm. 01584 823604 or info@oak-barn.co.uk or www.jollypages.co.uk/larks

Wednesdays (online session only) SINGING FOR LUNG HEALTH GROUP Specifically for people who suffer from progressive lung diseases, these sessions help you breathe better, reduce stress and have fun. Online and face to face weekly sessions. 11am, email lisa@encore-enterprises.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 (Term time) MUSIC TOTS LUDLOW Music activities for children aged 0-4 years. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 9.30am-10.15am for 0-2 year olds. 10.45am-11.30am for 2-4 year olds, £5 per session. Contact Gersom 07531 120951.

Every Thursday (Term time) DAWN CHORUS Sing along at any ability. Just singing for fun and wellbeing. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 8.15am-9am, £6 per session, no need to book. Contact Gersom 075311 20951.

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

Every Thursday KINGTON COMMUNITY CHOIR Non auditioning choir, rehearsing on Thursdays (term time) at 7pm-8.30pm at the Burton Hotel, Kington. Come along or email Secretary Teresa at kccherefordshire@gmail.com

Thursday CANTORION LLANDRINDOD A non auditioned mixed voice choir early and classical music. Rehearsals currently in Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells. 7.30pm-9.15pm. www.cantorion-llandrindod.org 01597 810601.

Thursday UKRAINIAN CHOIR

6pm at Bishops Palace, Hereford. Sessions are 1 hour long and guided by expert musician from Ukraine Galyna Grigoriadi. For more information, please message Galyna on ukrainian.bandura@gmail.com

Thursday EDGE CHAMBER CHOIR Auditioned chamber choir led by Ros Crouch, Ludlow Methodist Church, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Contact Ros Crouch ros.crouch@gmail.com

Thursday PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183, john@johnhymas.com

First Thursdays BLACK HILL TUNE CLUB 12.30-3.30pm at the Dog Inn, Ewyas Harold. New members welcome, 07891 640005.

Friday CRAVEN ARMS SAMBA CIRCLE Craven Arms Community Centre.10am - 11.15am. Regularly during term time with some holiday sessions. Join our friendly group to learn traditional djembe rhythms from Africa and samba rhythms from Brazil - Adults £5 (children accompanying their parents can join in with holiday sessions - £1, second child free). Enquiries carol@mkgriffs.plus.com

Friday LITTLE HEREFORD VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR

We are a non-audition choir formed 12 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. Info: term dates etc: lhvoices.wix.com/ home Facebook: @LittleHerefordVoices

Every Friday WELLSPRINGS Song-writing course, open to anyone over 18 who would like to improve their mental wellbeing. For info email lisa@encore-enterprises.com

Friday SINGING FOR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-3pm, £5 per session, pay on door (cash), 01432 340555.

Friday BUZZY BEATS! A fun morning for the under 5s. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 10.30am-11.30am, £7, 01743 234970.

Friday FAMILY MUSIC MAKERS For parents and toddlers 12.30-2pm, £4 per adult and child pair, under 1s free. Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Fridays every two weeks YOUTH SAMBA SESSIONS

With Peter Piper. Drumming is a fun physical and creative outlet. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 4.30pm-5.30pm, £5 per session or 5 sessions for £20, 01588 638038.

ADD A BAND - Real instrument backing to your own music. Perfect for singer songwriters etc. Studio near Newtown. www.addaband.co.uk, 07515 401635.

ALMSHOUSE ALL-STARS. Bring alive the swing era of the jazz age with classic songs and hot tunes featuring male & female vocals, sax, clarinet, flute, guitar, double bass, banjo, harmonica & ukulele. Band member credits include TV & radio, BBC & international music festivals, residencies at major tourist attractions and cruise operator contracts. Email: contact@wysonlanemusic.com. Phone: 07836 773303. Visit the website: www.wysonlanemusic.com/almshouseallstars Check us out on YouTube: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=eHhA49c9d60 Find us on Facebook: #almshouseallstars.

BAGPIPES Authentic Highland music for your formal event or gathering from international piper Keith Wellings. Keith is a former British diplomat bringing Scotland’s music to festivals, theatres, balls, weddings and funerals. Contact by phone 07580 389903, email keiththepiper@gmail.com facebook keith.wellings instagram keiththepiper

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

THE BANDEROS are a dynamic Blues band that effortlessly channels the raw essence and soul of the genre into their performance. Comprising seasoned musicians with a passion for Blues, Country Blues and Hokum, The Banderos deliver a live experience that is given that special sparkle treatment. Call them up. Phone 07710 493468. E-mail: info@newtraditionmusic.co.uk

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

FLATWORLD World music from Eastern Europe and beyond. Lively five-piece band with magnificent tunes and kicking rhythms for your arts centre, village hall, festival or party/wedding. Also circle dancing with caller. www.flatworld.band Contact Neil on 01684 569611 or info@flatworld.band

Band Directory

ONLY £45 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

Just call Clare on 07786 131159 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.

GREY WOLF is a 4-piece, well established, popular Americana/ Old-time folk band from the Welsh Marches. We play banjo, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, dulcimer and double bass alongside fine vocal harmony singing. The band has headlined several of the UK’s Old Time Music and Dance Festivals, performed on radio, at folk clubs, festivals, private parties and has featured at music and literary venues throughout the UK. Traditional, thoughtful and very entertaining, we are renowned for the rapport that we establish with our audiences. WEB : greywolffolk. com Contact : Jim 01584 810000. Email banjojim.allen@gmail.com

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

MIDNIGHT MAYHEM is a quality covers band ready to kickstart your event. Performing female influenced rock and pop with songs to delight your guests. So if you have a birthday, wedding or event get in touch to discuss how we can meet your requirements. Call or text Elizabeth on 07807 531151. Email midnight4mayhem@gmail.com and find us on Facebook or instagram.

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, 07835 928069, or Rich on 07594 636828. Email: tim@melomanics.co.uk Website: www.melomanics.co.uk

NICK AND JANE – The Poptastic duo bring you the greatest hits of the 60’s, 70’s and more. Great harmonies and infectious enthusiasm to make your event a memorable success. Perfect for parties, pubs, festivals and weddings. Facebook @nickandjane email: nickandjaneH@gmail.com or call Jane on 07512 368433.

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. Contact: John; 07751 829109. Web: www.ragtimejug.co.uk Email: info@ragtimejug.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ ragtimejugorchestra

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

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. SIR DANCELOT 4/5 piece ceilidh/twmpath band with caller. 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: Matt 01686 412 753 or 07843 440 789. 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!

TOMMY MILLS & PEDRO BROWN DUO Acoustic guitar and vocals, percussion, double bass and sax. Songs from Paul Simon, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Sting, David Bowie and much more. We can also play a set of our own songs for those occasions. 07811 2755856.

WHISKEY RIVER is a 5 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, slightly folkier acoustic versions of the band are available as Whiskey River (Quartet), Whiskey River (Trio) or Whiskey River (Duo) [once known as 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

VENUES

ALBERT HALL, Ithon Rd, Llandrindod Wells 0300 102 4255

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

BOROUGH THEATRE, Abergavenny 01873 850805

CARAD, East St, Rhayader, 01597 810192

CENTRE CELF, Tremont Rd, Llandrindod Wells 01597 822777

CHARLTON ARMS, Ludlow, 01584 872813

THE CLIFFE AT DINHAM, 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.

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.

LEFT BANK, Bridge St, Hereford 01432357753

LICHFIELD VAULTS, Church St, Hereford. 01432 266821

LION BALLROOM, Broad St, Leominster. 01568 612277

LUDLOW BREWING COMPANY, The Railway Shed, Ludlow 01584 873291

MARKET THEATRE, Ledbury 07967 517125

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

REGAL, Tenbury Wells 01584 811442

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 948100

THEATRE SEVERN, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281

THE TOWN HALL, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630023

THREE TUNS, Bishop’s Castle. 01588 638797

TOWN HALL, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630023

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

PERFORMANCE

Wed 2 April

JUDAS: A LENTEN REFLECTION

A thought-provoking retelling of the final week of Jesus’ life as seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Accompanied by music from Bach, Stainer, Victoria, Cruger and Wesley sung by the Stow Caple Singers. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, free, but booked via www.herefordcathedral.org

Fri 4 April

SHUT UP!

BROMYARD SENIOR YOUTH THEATRE. An adaptation of Andrew Payne’s witty and sometimes troubling play. Suitable for ages 11+. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 8pm, 01885 488575.

Sat 5 April

AN EVENING OF BURLESQUE CABARET

Blending stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque in an extravaganza of glitz and glamour. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £35.20, 01743 281281.

Sat 5 - Sat 12 April

LOVE ON THE DOLE

PHOENIX THEATRE COMPANY. By Ronald Gow and Walter Greenwood. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570.

Mon 7 April

INSPIRED FESTIVAL

Created by and for young people, Inspired is a platform for Youth Theatre to express what is important to them. Each group selects a one act play to perform. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555.

Thurs 10 - Sat 12 April

ABIGAIL’S PARTY

CONQUEST THEATRE PRODUCTION. A tragic comedy, full of belly laughs and also uncomfortableness at moments you will cringe. A cult classic piece of theatre... served with gin, light ale, pineapple and cheese on sticks and cigarettes. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £15, 01885 488575.

Tues 8 & Tues 15 April

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES

CRIME AND COMEDY THEATRE COMPANY. A radio play live on stage, featuring Colin Baker, Terry Molloy and Dee Sadler. 8 April - The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £27.50, 01584 811442. 15 April - The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £25, 01952 728911.

Tues 15 & Wed 16 April

DO I LOVE YOU?

NORTHERN SOUL. Join twenty-something Sally, Nat and Kyle in this hilarious comedy as they develop a love for the people involved. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £27.50, schools £16.50, 01743 281281.

Wed 23 - Sat 26 April

THE JUNGLE BOOK

COURTYARD JUNIOR YOUTH THEATRE. Join Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and all your favourite characters from this classic, family-friendly show. The Courtyard, Hereford, 2pm & 7pm, 01432 340555.

Thurs 24, Fri 25 & Wed 30 April

HANNAY STANDS FAST

OUR STAR THEATRE COMPANY. A thrilling sequel to “The 39 Steps”, Hannay Stands Fast sees our dashing hero, Richard Hannay back in the fray on a mission to thwart a new and deadly threat to his beloved England. 24 & 25 April - Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570. 30 April - The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Tues 29 April - Sat 3 May

PICTURE YOU DEAD

Superintendent Roy Grace is back in a thrilling brand-new Peter James stage adaptation. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £46.20-£22, 01743 281281.

Thurs 1 & Fri 2 & Thurs 15 May

A SHODDY DETECTIVE & THE ART OF DECEPTION

SHODDY THEATRE, JOSHUA BEAUMONT & MATTHEW EMENY present a laugh-out-loud slapstick whodunnit, featuring four actors, a dozen characters and a whole load of chaos. 1 & 2 May - The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 7.30pm, £27, 01584 811442. 15 May - The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Fri 2 May

PUM DIWRNOD O RYDDID (FIVE DAYS OF FREEDOM)

THEATR MALDWYN. Based on the history of the Chartists Outbreak in Llanidloes in 1839 and their aims of gaining the right to vote for all men and improve working conditions. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £19, under 18s £15, 01686 948100.

MUSICAL THEATRE & OPERA

Tues 1 & Wed 2 April

MUSICAL MAGIC

X-ENTRICITY present the best songs from the biggest musicals on West End and Broadway. A celebration of Musical Theatre. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 2 - Sat 5 April

THE ADDAMS FAMILY: THE MUSICAL MONMOUTH MUSIC THEATRE present the legendary Addams Family, America’s darkest family comes to life in this original musical about love, family and growing up. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, £16, under 16s £14, concessions Wed. 01600 772467.

Thurs 3 April

THE PHANTOMS STARRING LEE MEAD

In this spellbinding night of music celebrating the most beloved musicals of all time. Featuring former Phantoms direct from the West End production of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 5 April

IT IS I, SEAGULL

Comedy writer and opera singer Lucy Mellors has had enough. A hilarious exploration of self-esteem, joy, failure, opera and space travel. Fusing opera and comedy, Lucy exposes current and historical everyday sexism to ask what it takes to achieve something extraordinary, and is it worth it? The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, stay for free post-show Q&A, 01432 340555.

Mon 7 - Sat 12 April

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

Ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical comes to Shrewsbury. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 5.30pm, 8pm & 8.30pm, £50.05-£31.35, 01743 281281.

Wed 9 - Sat 12 April

SWEENEY TODD

AAODS. The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - A musical thriller. For ages 15+. Amateur production. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, various times, £15/£12/50, 01873 850805.

Thurs 1 - Sat 3 May

INTO THE WOODS

FORGET ME NOT PRODUCTIONS present the smash hit musical with proceeds from the performance being donated to the Alzheimer’s Society. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, various time, £15, 01873 850805.

Sat 3 - Wed 14 May REGAL OPERA FESTIVAL

Bringing live opera to Tenbury.

3 May - ‘Carmen Re-imagined’. ROGUE OPERA, sung in French with new English dialogue, featuring four singers and a pianist, 7.30pm, £32 - £27.50.

4 May - ‘Wagner: Die Walkure Act I Unveiled’. Featuring the Wagnarian singers including soprano Erika Madi Jones and tenor Brian Smith Walters, 7.30pm, £20.

10 May - ‘A Night at the Opera’. A gala evening of arias, duets and ensembles by Bizet, Mozart, Verdi and more. Featuring opera singers and the Neen Sollars and Milson Community Choir, 7.30pm, £23.50. 14 May - Die Walkure’. Broadcast screening from the Royal Opera House, 5.15pm, £18/£16.50. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442, www.regaltenbury.co.uk

CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Fri 11 April

A TALE OF US

Blending drama and multi-sensory playtime in a relaxed environment. After each performance there will be a guided Stay and Play session. For parents with children ages 0-18 months. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 01874 611622.

Sat 12 April

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR

NYP. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories; an enchanting look at the sacrifices we all make for love and acceptance. The Hafren, Newtown, £14, 01686 948100.

Mon 14 April

MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW

Designed for children’s and adults alike, Mark explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephants’ toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and howling jelly babies! Suitable for ages 5 year and upwards. The Regal, Tenbury Wells, 2.30pm, £18/£17, under 12 £12, 01584 811442.

Mon 14 & Wed 16 April

STORIES IN THE DUST

With live music and puppetry, Stories in the Dust is a funny, heartfelt and hopeful eco-fable that takes you to another world. A world where an ancient book guides your way, a drop of rain changes everything and a mighty lion holds its secrets in an old clay pot. For ages 5+. 14 April - Wem Town Hall, 2pm. £10/£8/£34. www.wemtownhall. co.uk 16 April - SpArC Theatre, 3pm. £10. www.sparctheatre.co.uk Arts Alive.

Wed 16 April

CREATION - THE BUBBLE SHOW

Immerse yourself in this adventure, as the master of bubbles breathes life into: light, water, plants, animals and stars. For ages from 2+. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 2pm, 01874 611622.

Thurs 17 April

RUDE SCIENCE LIVE!

Brace yourselves for BBC Gastronaut, Stefan Gates’ revolutionary, high-tech, highly explosive new show, packed with outrageous science stunts. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 11.30am & 3pm, 01600 719401.

Thurs 17 - Sun 20 April

SLEEPING BEAUTY: HAPPILY EVER AFTER

THE ENCHANTED GROUP. Panto is back for Easter. In this modern twist on the classic tale. Full of laughter, romance and twists, this family-friendly pantomime is a magical adventure. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, Thurs 7pm, Fri& Sat 2pm & 7pm, Sun 4pm, 01885 488575.

Sat 19 April

PINOCCHIO

Pinocchio is a mischievous puppet who is easily distracted by the Fox and the Cat. The show includes mime, puppetry, original music and audience participation. For children aged 4-10 years. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, free pre-activity from 10.30am, 01432 340555.

Sat 19 April

THE FROSTIE SHOW

Filled with mind-blowing magic, rib-tickling comedy, hilarious puppets and funny parody songs. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 2.30pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Wed 23 April

MOUNTAIN WITCH

An inclusive, joyous experience for children aged 3-8 years and their families. With plenty of songs and original music played live on clarinet, oud and cello. Leintwardine Community Centre, 2pm. £5. pjames37@btinternet.com Arts Alive.

Fri 25 April

THE STORY FORGE: MAKE YOUR OWN MYTH RUBBISH SHAKESPEARE COMPANY & SILLY HISTORY BOYS present a hilarious hour of high-octane adventure for children and childish adults. Featuring clowning, storytelling, physical comedy, live music and more. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 2pm & 6.30pm, £10, under 18s £5, 01584 878141.

Fri 25 April

THE ULTIMATE BUBBLE SHOW

Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guiness World Record Holder and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and make the ultimate bubble. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 1pm, £10, under 16s £9, family £34, 01600 772467.

Fri 25 April

THE GROOVY UV SHOW

The amazing ultra violet puppet theatre show for all the family. Using puppets, costumes, props and tricks. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, doors open 5.30pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Stories in the Dust

Pinocchio

DRAMA WORKSHOPS

Mon 14 - Wed 16 April EASTER DRAMA WORKSHOPS

THE QUITE FRANKLY THEATRE provide three days of learning new skills for young people, whether it be acting on stage, directing or in a writing role. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 9.30am-3pm, £55, sibling discounts available, to book and more information email quitefranklytheatre@ gmail.com 07967 517125.

Mon 28 April CATHEDRAL BIBLE DRAMA GROUP

Fun and relaxed free group in the Old Chapel. Using drama games and techniques to explore Biblical stories and characters. For ages 18+. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, Sat 10 May IMPROV WORKSHOP

Truth in Comedy with Maria Peters. A day exploring stories that are meaningful and authentic, connecting with your creative self. 10am-4pm, £55 early bird until 11 April. No experience needed. 18+ Canon Frome Court HR8 2TD. Book https://www.canonfromecourt.org.uk/event/ maria-peters-improv-workshop-at-canon-frome-court/ www.herefordcathedral.org

COMMUNITY YOUTH THEATRES

The Conquest, Bromyard. Mon - Juniors, Year 1-6: 5pm, £41 per term. Intermediates & Seniors, Year 7+: 6pm, £48 per term. The Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye. SatPhoenix Kids, ages 4-7, 9.30am, £41 per term. Juniors Group 1 for ages 8+, 10.30am. Juniors Group 2 for ages 8+, 11.45am, £45 per term. Market Theatre, Ledbury. Mon - Intermediates, Year 7-9: 7.30pm, £41 per term. Seniors, Year 10+: 8.30pm, £45 per term. Details email takepart@courtyard.org.uk or 01432 346526.

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW

Sat (term time only) - Ludwig Theatre Arts for ages 7-17, 2-4pm, contact takepart@ludwigtheatrearts.com Assembly Rooms, Ludlow.

MID POWYS YOUTH THEATRE

Tues (term time) Little MPYT for ages 10-13 years, 5.30pm-6.30pm, £60 per term, bursaries available. Tues (term time) Big MPYT for ages 14-24 years, 7.15pm-8.45pm, £60 per term, bursaries available. 4th Sun of the month MPYT +, for ages 19-29 years, suitable for all abilities, 3-5pm, £5 per session. Details www.mpyt.co.uk

COURTYARD THEATRE, HEREFORD

Sat - Junior Youth Theatre, Courtyard Kids 9.30am-10am, £67 per term. Year 3: 10.15am-11am. Year 4: 11am11.45am. Year 5: 12-12/45pm. Year 6: 12.45-1.30pm, (£68.50 per term). Year 7: 2.30-3.30pm. Year 8: 3.455.15pm (£70 per term). Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Mini Musicals for Reception - Year 3, 5pm, £28 per month. Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Junior Musical Theatre for Years 4-9, 6pm, £28 per month. Thurs - LG Drama Classes, Senior Musical Theatre for ages 14-18, 7pm, £36 per month.Fri - Year 9: 5-6.30pm, £70 per term. Wed - Intermediate Youth Theatre for Year 10 & 11, 5.30-7pm, £72 per term. Fri - Senior Youth Theatre for Year 12+, 7-9pm, £75 per term. Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Tuesdays Fortnightly HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

All welcome, no experience necessary. Clore Learning Space, Hay Castle, 10.30am-1.30pm, £7.50 per session, 01497 820079.

Tuesdays YOUTH THEATRE

For 7-14 year-olds after school. Ledbury Market Theatre, 01432 383663.

Tuesdays YOUTH CAFE

A safe place where young people can meet and share creative activites including music, drama and films. For ages 8-16 years, free. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

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.

Wednesdays Fortnightly HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

The Hanging Gardens, Llanidloes, 2-4.30pm, £6 per session. www.shakespearelink.org.uk or 07503 003815.

Thursdays (term time) SHROPSHIRE YOUTH THEATRE Seniors, 7-9.30pm, 14-25 years. All welcome. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury. www.shropshireyouththeatre.co.uk

Thursdays Fortnightly HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

Willow Globe, Llanwrthwl, Llandrindod Wells, 2-4.30pm, check www.shakespearelink.org.uk or 01587 811487.

Thursdays Fortnightly (term time) HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

6 & 20 March. All welcome, 10.30am-1pm, £7 per session. Wyeside, Builth Wells, info@shakespearelink. org.uk. 01587 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

Sundays (term) REGAL SCHOOL OF CREATIVE ARTS Theatre training to the young people of Tenbury Wells and surrounding areas. Suitable for ages 7-18. Regal, Tenbury Wells, 10am-1pm, www.regaltenbury.co.uk

Poetry & Storytelling

Sun 6 April

PAM AYRES: DOGGEDLY ONWARD

Pam talks about her latest book, ‘Doggedly OnwardA Life in Poems’. Pam illustrates how her work has provoked laughter, and some tears to people around the world. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 9 April

HOLLIE MCNISH: LOBSTER

Hollie McNish is a poet whose live readings are not to be missed. She is back with the paperback tour of ‘Lobster’ plus a selection of firm favourites from ‘Slug and Nobody Told Me’. Expect strong language and adult content, 14+. Book signing after the gig. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £15, 01584 878141.

Thurs 24 April

PELE’S POETRY SERIES: LEMN SISSAY

‘Let the Light Pour In’ is a celebration of Lemn Sissay’s decade-long morning practice and ode to morning rituals, carving out space each day for reflection and creativity. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £18, 01584 878141.

Sun 27 April

NIGHTJAR

Poetry open mic. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 7pm, www.thejam-factory.com

Comedy

Thurs 3 April

ABERLAUGH COMEDY CLUB

Stand up comedy featuring Samantha Day, Carwyn Blaney, headliner - Nick Page and MC Huw Davies. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 8pm, £10, 01873 850805.

Fri 4 April

IGNACIO LOPEZ: SENOR SELF-DESTRUCT

A riotously funny exploration of vices, decadence and self improvement. Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555.

Fri 4 April

COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Damo Clarke, David Hoare, Alex Hylton and Chris Chopping. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, 01989 763174. Tickets farcicalcomedy.co.uk

Sat 5 April

LEFTBANK COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Damo Clarke plus support from Jenny Hart, Welsh Jesus and MC for the evening, James Ryan. Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 8pm, £15, 01432 357753, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Sun 6 April

LOU SANDERS

Star of Dancing on Ice, champion of Taskmaster, Lou Sanders brings a deep, dumb show for the masses. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £24.50, 01743 281281.

Tues 8 April

TELFORD COMEDY CLUB

Featuring the hilarious musical duo, The Boys from the All Night Chemist, supported by a line-up of other comedians. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, Telford, 7.30pm, £8, 01952 610888.

Fri 11 & Fri 25 April

WESTONS CIDER COMEDY CLUB

Enjoy laugh out loud comedy from some of the hottest up-and-coming comedians on the circuit. For ages 18+ only. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8.30pm, 01432 340555.

Sat 12 April

MARK STEEL: THE LEOPARD IN MY HOUSE

The topic? His battle with throat cancer. Cancer has done nothing to dull Mark’s acute political observations. The Courtyard, Hereford, 8pm, 01432 340555.

Fri 18 & Sat 19 April

ALFIE MOORE: A FACE FOR RADIO

Somewhere in a parallel universe little Alfie’s natural comedic performance skills were recognised by his doting parents. After an apprenticeship in the Sheffield steelworks and a copper with Humberside Police his angelic face was launched on stage and screen... 18 April - Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, 01982 552555. 19 April - Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £22, 01584 878141.

Hollie McNish

Ignacio Lopez

Victor and Albert

Fri 25 - Sun 27 April

VICTOR AND ALBERT -

PURVEYORS OF FINE MUSICAL COMEDY

Join identical twins Professor Victor and Dr Albert for an evening of riotous comedy, audience interaction, original songs, games, mayhem and a sprinkling of magic. 25 April – Beckbury Village Hall, 7.30pm. £12/£6/£30. heathert806@gmail.com 26 April – Clungunford Village Hall, 7.30pm. £12/£6. 01588 660152. 27 April – Habberley Village Hall,. 7.30pm. £12/£6. 01743 790179. Arts Alive.

Sat 26 April

THE EDGE COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Matt Bragg, Fiona Allen and Steve Royle. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 728911.

Sun 27 April

THE RAINER HERSCH ORKESTRA

Expect an evening of stand-up comedy and great music with Rainer Hersch and special guest Alistair McGowan. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 4pm, £40-£30, under 18s £35-£25, 01743 281281.

Thurs 1 May

HARRY HILL - BEST BITS AND GREATEST HITS

Watch in wonder at the return of The Badger Parade with guest appearances from The Knitted Character and Abu Hamster. For ages 9+. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £34, 01686 948100.

Talks

Tues 1 April

LINGEN AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

“Hostas’, a talk by Ben Mathews. Lingen Village Hall, 7.30pm. Visitors welcome for £4, 01544 260354.

Tues 1 April

GOING WILD

‘Non-natives in Britain: A History’. A talk by Daniel Hodgkiss. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, entry by donation, www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk

Tues 1 April

WHAT ON EARTH?!

‘Into the Future: Blue Skies Thinking! Growing Consumer Choices’. A talk by Lucinda Lewis and James Hitchcock. Kingswood Village Hall, 7.30pm. Hosted by Kington KLEEN. Details kingtonkleen@gmail.com

Wed 2 April

THE WYE VALLEY WALK

Ruth Waycott, author of the guide to the new 50 Year anniversary edition of Cicerone Guide to the Wye Valley Walk will give an illustrated talk. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, £8 (with £3 off book purchase) from Ticketsource or at the door.

Fri 4 & Wed 16 April

MARK SMITH: FOR VALOURTHE STORY OF THE VICTORIA CROSS

The expert from BBC’s Antiques Roadshow presents some of the breath-taking stories of those men who have been awarded this country’s highest award for bravery.

4 April - Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29.50, VIP £50, 01743 281281. 16 April - Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £27.50, Meet and Greet £50, 01600 772467.

Tues 8 April

S.W. SHROPSHIRE HISTORICAL & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

8 April - ‘The Mortimers of Wigmore, 1066-1485’ with speaker Paul Dryburgh. The Church Barn, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, 01588 650173.

Wed 9 April

BROMYARD HISTORY SOCIETY

‘Romantic Ruins - A History of Wenlock Abbey’. A talk by Will Motley. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, members free, guests £6, 01885 488575.

Thurs 10 April

FOLLOWING THE WAY OF THE CROSS

Join Michael Westall for a reflection for Passiontide, using the example of one of the great Christians of the 20th century, Subir Biswas exercised a remarkable ministry at St Paul’s Cathedral, Calcutta in the 1970s. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, £10, www.herefordcathedral.org

Thurs 10 April

CONVERSATIONS AT THE CHAPEL

With Alastair Laurence in conversation with John Macfarlane, one of the leading designers of stage sets and costumes for opera, ballet and theatre. Upstairs at the Chapel, The Art Shop & Chapel, Market St, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £13, 01873 852690.

Thurs 10 April

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS

Relive the highs and lows of the team that dominated the 80s - starring captain, Phil Thompson and goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar as they talk about that famous Liverpool side. Q&A. Guidance 14+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Thurs 10 April & Thurs 15 May

RADICAL CARE

10 April - Faye Claridge. 15 May - David Blandy. A series of talks exploring the role of art in fostering connection, well-being and collective action. Hereford College of Arts, College Rd, 6pm, www.meadowarts.org/event/radical-care

Fri 11 April

FOWNHOPE LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

‘The History of Hereford Shire Hall’, a talk by Rhys, Senior Archivist at HARC. Fownhope Memorial Hall, 7.30pm, £5 non members, all welcome, 01432 860319.

Sat 12 April

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Join a lively Q&A to explore the Herefordshire Hoard, its discovery and archaeological techniques. Suitable for ages 12+. History Store, 58 Friars St, Hereford, 2pm-3pm, free, drop-in.

Sat 12 April

HEREFORDSHIRE & MID WALES HARDY PLANT GROUP

Plant sale and talk. Gail Plant will give a practical talk on Scented Narcissi and other spring plants.

Pembridge Village Hall, 1.30pm, visitors welcome, £5, email vanessa.doyle@plantingspecialist.co.uk

Tues 15 April

LUDLOW AND MARCHES HUMANISTS

‘A History of Slavery and in Modern Times’. A talk by Bernard North. The Friends Meeting House, St Mary’s Lane, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01568 770282.

Wed 16 April

SHELF LIFE

Join Michael Robb for a captivating talk exploring the world of bookselling and publishing that unveils the resilience and innovation of key figures who have shaped the literary landscape. St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye, 1pm, free.

Wed 16 April

TEME VALLEY ARTS SOCIETY

‘Light and Shade - the Persian Paradise Garden’, a talk by Justin Reay. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 2pm, 01584 878141.

Wed 23 April

SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDENING CLUB

‘Helping Our Pollinators’, a talk by Paul Gibson from Peter the Bee and Friends. Lydbury North Village Hall, 7.30pm, free to members (£20 annually), guests welcome £5, 01588 661025.

Thurs 24 April

ARTS SOCIETY MID WALES & BORDERS

‘Cardiff Castle, a Welsh Victorian Camelot’, with speaker, Matthew Williams. Powis Suite, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, 2.30pm, visitors welcome £7, 01938 555574.

Sat 26 April

SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT TALKS

‘Regency Herefordshire’. History Store, 58 Friars St, Hereford, 1.30pm-3pm, £5 per person, book via www.facebook.com/herefordshiremuseums

Sat 26 April

DR KATE MCMILLAN

Sidney Nolan Birthday Lecture. Sidney Nolan Trust, The Rodd, Presteigne, 2pm, £8, www.sidneynolantrust.org

Wed 30 April

MILLICHAP PEACE FUND

‘The Climate Crisis, Conflict and Peace’. A talk via Zoom by Robin Attfield, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy drawing the links between climate crisis, conflict and peace and suggesting a potential way forward. Register https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ FTgXZ19CS-2OAQeW7JDRPA

Wed 30 April

THE MURDER OF SAINT ETHELBERT THE KING

A cold case review in the light of new facts! Clifford Offer will draw upon the latest historical evidence to probe the circumstances surrounding the murder of King Ethelbert. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, £11 members of Friends of Hereford Cathedral, £15 guests.

Email friends@herefordcathedral.org

Liz Berry, ‘Heartwhole, Litsome, Clandestical Poetry Workshop’

Workshops & Courses

Sun 6 April

HEARTWHOLE, LITSOME, CLANDESTICAL POETRY WORKSHOP

With award-winning poet Liz Berry, inspired by the library’s collection of dialect dictionaries and other texts. Reading Room, Hereford Cathedral Library, 1pm-3pm, £25, www.herefordcathedral.org

Mon 7 - Thurs 17 April

BOOK, DVD & CD SALE

Quality second-hand books, DVDs, CDs. Hardbacks £2, paperbacks, £1, DVDs & CDs - 4 for £1. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 10am-4pm daily (early entry 9am 7 April for £5), www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk

Wed 9 April

PUB THEOLOGY

A relaxed and informal monthly gathering. Chat about issues related to God, faith, life, theology, philosophy and anything else! The Lichfield Vaults, Church St, Hereford, 7pm.

April, May & June

ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY COURSES

Literature & Creative Writing. 28 April - Exploring Creative Writing Techniques, £130. 28 April - Writing the Body, £130. 28 April - Nature and Ecology Writing, £130. 28 April -Writing Poetry Through Global Trauma, £130.

29 April - An Introduction to Welsh Literature, £130. 30 April - Writing for Radio, £130. All the above are online courses.

Modern Languages. 29 April - Arabic for Beginners 2 Extra, £130. 30 April - Arabic for Beginners 2, £130. 30 April - Chinese Beginners 1 through the medium of Welsh, £130. 30 April - French Beginners 1, £130.

29 April - French Beginners 2, £130. 30 April - French Intermediate Extra, £130. 1 May - German Beginners 2 (online course), £130. 30 April - German Beginners 2 Extra (online course), £130. 29 April - Italian Beginners 1, £130. 1 May - Italian Beginners 2, £130. 30 AprilItalian Beginners 2 Extra, £130. 29 April - Introduction to British Sign Language, £150. 30 April - Japanese Beginners 2, £130. 2 June - Spanish Beginners 1, £130. 29 April - Spanish Beginners 2, £130. 29 April - Spanish

Beginners 2 Extra, £130. 29 April - Spanish Improvers 2 Extra, £130. 30 April - Russian Beginners 2 Extras, £130. Professional and Personal Development (all online courses). 24 April - Building Resilience, £70.

24 April - CANVA, £70. 28 April - Introduction to Maths 1, £130. 16 April - Introduction to Maths 2, £130.

28 April - Focus on Philosophy: Free Will or Free Won’t, £130. 1 May - Listening with Sensitivity and Skill, £70. 1 May - What Ought I do?: A History of Ethical Thought, £130. 8 May - Creating Podcasts, £75.

History Genealogy, Archaeology. 21 April - Acorn to Oak Part 3 (online), £130. 28 April - Resarching and Writing Women’s History (online), £130. 29 AprilStripping Museums of Their Greatest Treasures, £130. 30 April - Branching Out: how to use pre-1858 wills for family history (online), £70. 1 May - Medieval Women (online), £130. 1 May - A History of Welsh Piracy, (£130. 8 May - Beyond Statues: Memorials in Modern Wales (online), £130. 31 May - Early Medieval Wales: From Romans to Normans (online), £130. All running over several weeks. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, Penglais Campus, 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

Every Tues, Wed & Thurs SPANISH LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS Tues - Advance beginners 10am-11.30am, Wed - Advance Spanish B1, 10am. Thurs - Total beginners, 10am-11.30am with Mely. Private tuitionGCSE students and A Level. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 07837 160505. www.hayspanish.com

Last Tuesday of each month HOMEND POETS

Open mic. No booking required. Pot & Page, 8 New St, Ledbury, 6.30pm, www.potandpage.co.uk

Every Wednesday PLACES OF WELCOME

All welcome, to meet a friendly face, a cup of tea and conversation. The Oxford Arms Barn, Duke St, Kington, 10am-12.30pm.

THE COURTYARD WORKSHOPS

Mon - Writing Room Extra. Ongoing sessions for writers with some experience, 3-5pm, £110 per term. MonWriting Room. For writers of all abilities, 6.30-8.30pm, £90 per term. Tues - Reading Room. For adults who love theatre and enjoy script analysis, 10.30am-12.30pm, £60 per term. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Every Wednesday (term time) BABY B! Storytelling group. From birth to 5 years. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 11am, free, 01874 611622.

First Wednesday of the month POETRY CAFE, Charlton Arms, Ludlow, 7.30pm, 01584 872813. Third Wednesday of the month BEREAVEMENT CAFE Old Chapel, Hereford Cathedral, 2.30pm-4pm, run by volunteers, www.herefordcathedral.org

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

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.

grass roots

Labour riles its green wing by failing to ditch biomass burning

WHEN it comes to the Tories and their performance on the environment, I have not always been among their most prominent cheerleaders. But this month I must raise a glass to shadow environment spokesman Claire Coutinho. Because she has had the guts to make a u-turn on the matter of biomass burning.

For some years, and under a ragbag of leaders, it was Tory orthodoxy to support the burning of vast quantities of wood at the Drax power station in Yorkshire, to generate electricity. Anyone with any real knowledge of climate change realised long ago that biomass burning is crazy.

It is like going back to the coal-fired power of the early post war years, before most of us realised that the future of our planet was in grave danger from global heating. The pretence behind biomass burning is that after millions of tonnes of wood are burned, all the carbon dioxide that is emitted can somehow be magically reabsorbed, within a few years, by fresh trees that are planted in place of the old ones that have been felled.

That is a naïve assumption which could quickly be de-bunked by even a biology school student. In reality, say the climate experts, it will take scores of years, maybe over a hundred, for all that CO2 to be re-absorbed by growing new trees.

The claim that burning biomass is sustainable is not only wrong-headed. It also results in environmental damage being exported across the Atlantic, to communities that get no benefit whatsoever from the electricity which is generated.

There is nowhere near enough forest in Britain to supply wood sufficient to keep the furnaces at Drax running. So vast acreages of woodland, across several states in the USA, have been turned over to providing “feedstock” for the Drax operations. The wood grown specially to supply Drax is then made into easily combustible fuel pellets. And this process results in harm to the local environment in north America.

According to an investigation by The Times newspaper, these wood-growing operations carried out by the Drax Group. have, allegedly, resulted in more than 11,000 environmental violations.

Over the years Tory governments were spending staggering sums, about £800 million a year, on subsidising Drax. And then, last year, Tory energy shadow minister Claire Coutinho saw the light. She judged that, on close inspection, the rationale behind Drax, on both sides of the Atlantic, simply unravelled.

“We cannot go green by burning these trees, at huge cost to the public,” said Claire Coutinho. “If the widespread burning of forests is part of the solution to climate change, then we have to ask ourselves what problem we are trying to solve.”

Coutinho was catching up with arguments which had been made forcefully by green campaigners. They had

long regarded the claims of sustainability made by the Drax management as preposterous. They insisted that burning wood pellets caused the destruction of forests and caused harmful emissions on a vast scale.

Their position has been well summed up by Greenpeace UK. Its policy director, Dr Doug Parr, has said, “…continuing to subsidise huge biomass imports is not a step on the road to a cleaner future, but a dirty compromise with past failures. Trees should be left to grow and not be burnt in a major subsidy-fuelled bonfire.”

And, Dr Parr continued, ”...the UK’s commitment to Drax has become an albatross, a supposed asset that is looking more and more stranded as the energy market develops.”

The Drax Group chief executive, Will Gardiner, bitterly rejects such arguments and seems especially annoyed about the Tory u-turn led by its climate and energy spokesman Claire Coutinho. He says the Conservative Party’s position is “…reckless and irresponsible.” And he argues that the staff at Drax power station “…work tirelessly to power the UK.”

Since Labour came into office, it is only the scale of this spending that has been curbed. The government is still choosing its words very cautiously and Labour is far from being ready to make a clean break with biomass burning.

Indeed, in early February, when the government revealed that it would cut the level of annual subsidy for Drax by half, ministers caused fury among campaigners, who had hoped to see a much more radical and robust anti-biomass policy.

One environmental body, the Natural Resources Defence Council, reckoned the Labour move cast serious doubt over the party’s commitment to the environment. Its senior advocate, Matt Williams, said continuing public financial support for Drax added fuel to growing doubts over the government’s stance on fighting climate change.

Indignation among environmental campaigners with the Starmer government was succinctly summed up by Chris Packham, the television science presenter and green activist. He condemned the decision by Labour as “nothing short of absolute madness”.

Green Events

Sat 5 April GRAND SPRING SALE

Clothes, vintage, collectables, books and jumble. Pop-up cafe with tea, coffee and cake. Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 10am-2pm, £1 entry in aid of Shelter Cymru and Knighton & District Refugee Support. Info 01544 370637 or 01544 262864.

Sat 12 April DOG SHOW AND MARKET

Bring your furry friends! Unique stalls offering pet-friendly treats and gifts, food and entertainment for the whole family. Lyde Court, Hereford, 10am-6pm, 01432 357753.

Tues 15 & Wed 16 April ESCAPE TO THE WOODS!

A fun packed Easter holiday club for children aged 6-12 years. Activities include bush crafts, den building, green woodworking skills, willow working and outdoor cooking. The Cart Shed, Devereux Wootton, Norton Canon, Hereford, HR4 8QN, 9am-3pm, £60 per child for two days. Hot and cold drinks will be provided. Please bring packed lunch, suitable footwear and spare clothes.

To book: www.thecartshed.co.uk

Sat 19 April PAM’S PLANT SALE

Clun Methodist Church Forecourt, 10am-12pm. Proceeds to Alzheimer’s Research & Clun Methodist Church.

Mon 5 May HERGEST CROFT GARDENS

Spring Plant Fair. Over 60 exhibitors including rare and unusual trees, shrubs, plants, artisan foods, crafts and much more. Hergest Croft Gardens, Kington, 10am-4pm, www.hergest.co.uk

KNIGHTON COMMUNITY WOODLANDS GROUP

Volunteer with us on our weekly task days to learn new skills. http://tveg.org.uk/wordpress/woodland-project Email woodland@tveg.org.uk 01547 520374.

April & May ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY

11 April - Bird Survey, £130. 28 April - Ecology 1, £130.

28 April - Rocky Shore Ecology and Sampling Techniques, £130. 29 April - Wildflowers: Identification and Folklore, £130. 29 April - Living on the Edge: Processes, Places and Pressures in Coastal Environments, £130.

29 April - Understanding British Marine Mammals, £130.

29 April - Identifying Grasses, Sedges and Rushes, £130.

30 April - Discovering British Marine and Freshwater Invertebrates, £130. 7 May - Butterfly Survey, £130.

15 May - Butterflies of Various Habitats, £130. All online courses and all running over several weeks. Lifelong Learning, Aberystwyth University, Penglais Campus, 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

KINGTON LOCAL ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY NETWORK (KLEEN) Encourages community resilience through our Electric Car Share Club, public Orchards, tiny Coppice Woodland, Presentations & networking without borders. Email: kingtonkleen@gmail.com

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

First Saturday of the month LEOMINSTER REPAIR CAFE, 10-12.30pm. Community Centre. Household items, jewellery, clothing etc repaired for free, donations welcomed. Facebook/ website, www.leominsterrepaircafe. org.uk

Tuesdays INFORMAL VOLUNTEERING If you are interested in volunteering, come to our Volunteer Drop-in session held at Knighton Community Centre on a Tuesday morning, 10am-12pm, or if you know someone who needs help or you want to find out more about volunteering, please contact Louise Home, our Informal Volunteering Officer on 07848 021282.

complementary therapies

Disclaimer: We would like to emphasise that these listings relate to COMPLEMENTARY medicine practiitioners. 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

ACCREDITED, EXPERIENCED PSYCHOTHERAPIST & COUNSELLOR: One-to-one sessions for adults age 18 upwards, in Hay-on-Wye (HR3) and by online video. Find relief from anxiety and depression; overcome trauma; transform anger and low self-worth; navigate divorce, bereavement, and other difficult life experiences. Contact Sarah Hamilton at HAY COUNSELLING, 07580 482751, www.haycounselling.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 / www.hayacupunctureclinic. co.uk

ACUPUNCTURE AND TUINA: I use TCM acupuncture, electro-acupuncture and Tui Na (therapeutic massage) to treat a wide range of health conditions. In Ledbury at my home treatment room on New Street, and in Hereford at Kyrle House Practice (kyrlehouse.co.uk 01432 273234). Acupuncture-Acutherapy Council member. Ruth Busbridge, BSc MSc Dip.Acupuncture. https:// rbacupuncture.co.uk/ 07743809466 ruthbacupuncture@ gmail.com

ALEXANDER TECHIQUE LESSONS with Ron Colyer, B.Mus., M.S.T.A.T. An Alexander teacher, accredited by and member of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique, with over 40 years experience, I am currently offering lessons in Malvern and surrounding areas. Alexander work can help with back pain, joint pain, neck pain, as well as enhancing skills, e.g. in performing arts, yoga practice, etc. The lessons help you to become aware of faulty habits of body use, including inappropriate tension or misdirected energy. You learn to help yourself - it’s really a reeducation process rather than a therapy. For more on Alexander Technique visit alexandertechnique. co.uk Contact me on 07733 253056, or email alextechwithron9@outlook.com

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

ARE YOU NEURO SPICEY? Do you have a formal or self-diagnosis of AuDHD, ADHD or Autism? Would you like to feel better in yourself? Find out how your wellbeing may be directly linked to your lifestyle choices, what you eat, your emotional support and how connected you are to people (in person or online) who appreciate your unique differences. Contact either of us to hear about a new holistic approach available at The Body Clinic Leominster HR6 8EP or call Vicky t: 07790 162067 or Joanna t: 07984 460969.

BODY CLINIC, LEOMINSTER Holistic Therapies and advice for rehabilitation, pain, mobility and long term health conditions. Improve and/or support mental health, wellbeing, women’s and men’s health, fertility, pregnancy and much more. Unsure what’s best for your health issue? Book a Holistic Health assessment so an experienced health practitioner can help you. 17 West St, Leominster HR6 8EP www.thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk 01568 368 907/07493 078 566. thebodyclinicleominster@ gmail.com

CLINIC SPACE AVAILABLE in this busy, light and fully serviced multi disciplinary health centre. Working collaboratively to offer holistic health therapies in The Marches area. The Body Clinic, 17 West St, Leominster HR6 8EP. Half day, day and per client (if relocating or new to practice) basis. Good patient referals. www. thebodyclinicleominster.co.uk 01568 368 907/07493 078 566 thebodyclinicleominster@gmail.com Please call to arrange an informal look around.

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY SERVICES - DR NANCY BANCROFT Are you struggling with intense emotions, feeling overwhelmed, lost or stuck? Make sense of your experience and create lasting change, with a specialist mental health professional. Trauma-focussed psychotherapy ~ EMDR ~ mind-body integration 1:1 therapy ~ training ~ supervision. Online and face-to-face sessions available in Pembridge, Herefordshire.Contact hello@thebodyinmind.co.uk www.thebodyinmind.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.

EMDR AND HYPNOTHERAPY: Sabina Jennings BSc, PgDip Derm, Dip EMDR, Dip Hyp. HWHP. Solution Focussed Hypnotherapist and EMDR therapist for Anxiety, Low Self Worth, Relationship Concerns, Suffers of Narcissist Abuse, Imposter Syndrome, Fear of the Future etc. Visualization techniques for business and sport goals. 1 to 1 sessions or on-line. Supporting you to move forward from the limiting beliefs and habits of the past. Phone 07464202715 or see my website www.hypnotichub.co.uk.

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. For more information www.thewritetofeel.com.

EROTIC EMBODIMENT FOR WOMEN If you’ve tried lots of different practices, modalities, spiritual pursuits, and still feel like something is missing, I’d love to help you find that spark of joy, aliveness and pleasure you are longing for through the simple magic of your own body. One-on-one and group sessions. Connect with me, Emily Martin, at 07747 250720 or www.bigasskinkyheart.com

GONG BATH SOUND MEDITATION SESSIONS IN & AROUND HEREFORDSHIRE. Soundscapes can aid in the letting go of old emotions & limiting behaviours. I run twice monthly Group sessions, & also offer 1:1 sessions, hen parties, corporate / wellbeing events, retreats. For more info. Contact Lizzie 07870345216 www. lizzieyogahereford.com

HEREFORD HOMEOPATH and BIODYNAMIC CRANIOSACRAL THERAPIST Juliet Ablett (RHom, MARH, MNCHM, RCST). Holistic health care with experienced practitioner using homeopathy, essences and homeobotanicals, safe and effective treatment for all ages. Also Craniosacral therapy, a light touch, non directive, powerful form of bodywork, also suitable for all ages. Hereford, Garway, Monmouth. www.julietablett.co.uk julietablett@mailbox.org

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.

LEARN THE ART OF FEMININE DEVOTION. Emily Martin - 07747 250720 - www.bigasskinkyheart.com

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).

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.

MOLE & LESION ASSESSMENTS, FACIALS & ENERGY HEALING I offer a mole checking service with a dermatology report in 48 hours. Also natural facelift facials, Reiki and Crystal healing. Appointments available in Bromyard Contact Mandy on TEL 07742 228196 www.flourishandjoy.co.uk

PSYCHOTHERAPIST & COUNSELLOR. Kington based. Face-to-face sessions for individual adults over 18. No couples work. Regain control of your life, restore meaning to your existence and relief from anxiety, sleeplessness and troubled relationships. Penny Cole 07776 146427. http://www.pennycolecounselling.co.uk

SOUND THERAPY BY EDAN SOUND. Soesen Edan is a qualified Sound Therapist with over 20 years of experience running 1-2-1 and group sessions, teaching and retreats. Sound therapy is excellent for all manner of ailments & disease; regulates heart rate & blood pressure, reduces stress & anxiety and brings people to a deeply relaxed state. Monthly group sessions held in Herefordshire, Malvern & Birmingham. 1-2-1 sessions in Holme Lacy. Extensive experience working with complex disabilities & autism; prison therapeutic education, corporate sessions, team away days, workshops & bespoke sound consultancy. www.edansound.co.uk

SHADOW WORK, COUNSELLING & DEEP PROCESS

PSYCHOTHERAPY Facilitated shadow work is a type of embodied deep process psychotherapy. I work one-toone in longer sessions, typically 5-hours. These deep-dive sessions offer an accepting and shame free space within which to explore and transform those habitual, ingrained or unconscious patterns, beliefs or behaviours that trapping you and hold you back from living a full, meaningful and joyful life. This work holds the potential for deep personal growth and deep healing and is the place to dive real deep into difficulty and challenge, shame or guilt, your grief, your pain, your fear or rage. The holding I offer you is both sensitive and strong, and you are invited to bring any issue you wish to our work together. Find out more about shadow work and to schedule a free 20-minute consultation at: www.inner-truth.co.uk - Alasdair Kirk07792 405 660.

SOUND THERAPY, with Gongs, Singing Bowls and other therapeutic instruments to relieve stress and anxiety, restoring mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Monday night ‘Sound Bath’ sessions at The Fold, Bransford in Worcestershire and at Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, Herefordshire, 1-2-1 treatments in Ledbury, retreats, private groups, workshops, celebrations. Contact Cecilia on 07857 128 082, info@csoundspace.com www.csoundspace.com

SPORT’S HYPNOTHERAPY AND EMDR – Amateur sports men and women can benefit from sports hypnosis just as much as the professionals. If you are looking to improve your sports performance mindset, staying focussed and putting aside distractions and unwanted negative beliefs, Hypnotherapy and EMDR can help. If you love sport, but finding a setback, imposter syndrome, lack of motivation or lack of focus is holding you back then why not call and see if Hypnotherapy and EMDR is for you. Contact – Sabina Jennings BSc, Pg Dip AID, Dip. Hyp. HWHP, Dip. EMDR. Tel 07464202715 www.hypnotichub.co.uk

YOGA IN PRESTEIGNE

• Group classes and one-to-one tuition to support well-being. • Vedic chant tuition. • Yoga therapy to help during challenging times.

‘Anybody can breathe. Therefore, anybody can practise yoga.’ (TKV Desikachar)

Marie Hudson 07972 492304

marieh279@gmail.com www.theyogapractice.org.uk

YANGSHENG HOLISTIC HEALTH & NUTRITION

Different bodies require different approaches. Receive personalised dietary and lifestyle guidance rooted in the ancient Chinese tradition of yangsheng or “nourishing life.” Address specific health challenges or simply work towards optimal wellbeing. Contact Natalie on 07391162202 or visit www.hsnholistic.com

Workshops

WORKSHOP LISTINGS - Single (dated) listings are free. Year round, ongoing workshops will cost £45 per year.

Until Sat 10 May MAKING SENSE

Art - Sound - Light - Food - Movement - Breath. Workshops and immersive experiences offering wellness solutions facilitated by professional practitioners. Fortnightly events culminating in a day retreat May 31st. Saturdays 11am-3pm. Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Shrewsbury. wemakesense.co.uk

Fri 4 April GONG BATH

Deep relaxation sound journey with Chrys Blanchard. Upstairs at the Chapel, The Art Shop & Chapel, Market St, Abergavenny, 4pm-5.30pm or 7.30pm-9pm, please arrive 15 minutes prior to start, £15, 01873 852690.

Sat 5 April HEALTH AND WELLBEING MARKET

A wide range of stalls dedicated to self-care, wellness and holistic living. Lyde Court, Hereford, 10am-4pm, free entry, 01432 357753.

Sat 12 & Wed 16 April PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT GROUP

Mindfulness Exercises, Awareness Building Activities, Thinking & Listening Skills, Group Coaching. Spiro Clinic and Wellness Centre, Ludlow, SY8 1RT 6.30pm-8.30pm, £30 per session. 07879 845713, email bryony@eself.co.uk or www.eself.co.uk

Sat 12 April & Sat 10 May KUNDALINI YOGA

April & May (Kington). Open your heart to joy and healing. Movement, relaxation meditation, singing and anything else that works! £25-£30, bring a blanket, snacks and yogi tea. 07807 550653, georgie@healingspirits.co.uk www.healingspirits.co.uk

Fri 25 April FAMILY HEALTH DAY

Drop-in health clinics and advice for all the family. No appointments necessary. The Oxford Arms, Kington, 10am-1pm, free, cafe open, 07301 081444

Fri 25 - Sun 27 April QUEER NATURE RETREAT

A journey of self-discovery, empowerment and celebration for the queer community. Through yoga and transformative breathwork. Chapel on the Green, Glasbury, 07855 878545, www.chapelonthegreen.co.uk

April HELLENS MANOR WORKSHOPS/RETREATS

7 April - Special Sound Bath, 7pm, The Great Barn. 11 April - One Day Yoga Retreat with Allison Maxwell, 10am. 12 April - Two Day Yoga Retreat with Hilly Hannken. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 01531 660504, www.hellensmanor.com

Mondays (term time) MOMMY & ME

Restorative Yin Yoga and baby explore session, 11.30am, £7. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 07947 120751.

Mondays & Tuesdays BREATHE IN YOGA WITH KATY

The Regal, Tenbury Wells, Mon 9.30am, Tues 6pm, 01584 811442.

Tuesdays EVERGREEN PILATES

Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 9am, £9, Ryan, 07984 816847.

Wednesdays (term time) CHAIR YOGA WITH PHILLIPA Gentle chair based yoga class for all abilities, no experience necessary. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 12pm, £8 per session, no need to book, 01982 552555.

KUNDALINI YOGA CLASSES & WORKSHOPS Fun, flowing, energetic, deeply relaxing & releasing for mind, body & spirit, Georgie’s Kundalini Yoga sessions welcome teens & preteens as well as adults. Seriously good for your physical and mental health! Kington & Brilley, timetable here healingspirits.co.uk.

PILATES CLASSES Community classes in Titley Village Hall, Lyonshall Memorial Hall and New Radnor Community Hall. Private lessons in my garden studio in Titley. All abilities and ages welcome. Pilates reduces back pain, increases strength and flexibility, tones your body from top to toe. Move it or lose it! Helen Boley info@helenbpilates.com https://helenbpilates.com 01544 231512, 07968 970093.

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.

HATHA YOGA & SOUND THERAPY WITH BRIDGET ROWAN 90min Yoga classes on Zoom and in Peterchurch HR2 0RS to keep you moving and doing the things you love and to bring a sense of calm, peace and improve your wellbeing. Group soundscapes held regularly in the beautiful St Peters Church, Peterchurch. Individual yoga and sound therapy sessions available. Please see my website for further information www.bridgetrowan.uk or contact Bridget 07904 111334.

Third Wednesday BEREAVEMENT CAFE

An informal and friendly gathering. College Hall, Hereford Cathedral, Hereford, 2.30pm, www.herefordcathedral.org

LUDLOW ASSEMBLY ROOMS

Mon - Yoga, 9.30am, £8. Julie Burdett 07780 905729. Wed - Pilates, 10am, £10 per session. Sarah on 07967 482510. Weekly - Hatha Yoga, 6.30pm, £6 per session. Katherine 07975 535408. Assembly Rooms, Ludlow.

THE ART SHED, MID WALES ARTS

Every Wed - Tai Chi with Alan Jeffries, 12pm-1pm, £7. Every Thurs - Yoga with Karen Booth, 4.30pm-6pm, £9, 07794 337318. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, 01686 688369.

WYESIDE

Mondays term time - Move & Groove - Interactive yoga and movement sessions for ages 2-5 years, 10am, £7 per session, no booking required.

Mondays term time - Mommy & Me - Restorative yin yoga and baby explore session, where you can enjoy some gentle yoga along with your little one, 11.30am, £7 per session, no booking required.

Mondays term time - Mommy Move - Babywearing yoga and dance sessions whilst wearing your little one in a sling/carrier, 1pm, £7 per session, no booking required. Conctact Laura 07947 120751 for the above classes.

4, 11 & 18

Dec - Chair Yoga with Phillipa - Gentle chair based yoga class for all abilities and for people with limited movement, no experience necessary. 12pm-1pm, term time, £7 per session, no booking required. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 01982 552555.