BROAD SHEEP DECEMBER 2024/JANUARY 2025 by Broadsheep

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december 2024

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HE year speeds past and its time for another Xmas double issue of Broad Sheep. Struggling to think what to write for the Christmas best seller I happened to look at last year’s editorial. This is what I had written.

‘I can’t bear to read the newspaper at the moment, although I do have a quick scan of TV news in the evening hoping that someone’s forced a ceaseﬁre into the madness of Gaza. Ukraine is apparently no longer big news even though the bombs and rockets continue to fall.’

How utterly depressing - nothing much has changed although there is hardly any of Gaza left to bomb and the death toll is astronomical. We do have a new a much-needed new government in the UK and a Green MP in Herefordshire but any joy that might bring was quickly eliminated by the unwelcome election result in the U.S. It is bad news on so many fronts I will not even begin but it is truly bafﬂing that in a country with a population of 300 million this is the best they can come up with. I have the ﬁrst few lines of the Randy Newman song ‘Red Necks’ going round in my head. It’s about Georgia’s most unlikely boss, Lester Maddox the segregationist Governor in the 60’s.

Well he may be a fool but he’s our fool

If they think they’re better than him they’re wrong

Trump’s first round of appointments to his administration include some real causes for concern. Elon Musk, with his fingers in too many pies and his million dollar payouts in support of Trump’s campaign, is one, but perhaps more worrying is the new defence secretary. Pete Hegseth is a 44 year old Fox News chatshow commentator with no, hands on, government experience, has been put in charge of the £625 billion defence budget!

Okay, I apologise, this editorial is supposed to be a lighthearted intro to all the good stuff that’s going on in the Borders not another dose of bad news. I must lighten up. Perhaps a trip to the Presteigne Panto will make you forget all your troubles. As per usual one month to go and confusion reigns. Never has the phrase ‘It’ll be all right on the night’ been more used and abused than in Llanandras in November. But (shock, horror) it usually is, all right. I will not attempt to ﬁll you in on the plot but I can tell you that a team of losers from Presteigne does get a chance to contest University Challenge.

Tickets are on sale at The Salty Dog in Presteigne 5/6/7 December.

I am very sad that, for one reason or another, we have failed to embark on one of our electric bike trips into the wilder parts of Europe this year. But on the plus side I did see a documentary on BBC about the Corsican Maﬁa and realized that, on one recent bike trip, Alison and I had spent a couple of nights drinking in a little bar on the waterfront in Basia that was apparently the known hang out of Corsican Maﬁa bosses. Luckily we came to no harm probably because they recognized me as one of the Presteigne branch. Things did get a little more hairy on Corsica’s wild West Coast when following a rather heated altercation at a remote hostelry L’Auberge du Chat qui Pêche - ME “This steak is 75% fat and gristle” THE OWNER “Stupid Englishman, why you leave your key in your room?” we thought we were in for a cold night on the edge of a cliff facing the sea, but luckily he relented and after I gave him the secret, funny, handshake (sorry I can’t tell you) he even let us put our bikes in the bar overnight.

Previous Panto

New Defence Secretary - Oh dear!

Sharing a bottle with the Maﬁa

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RETAIL SHOP FOR SALE with spacious one bed flat (cheaper than renting) in School Lane, Leominster (formerly the MOUSETRAP). Live above your workplace /gallery no distance to work! Contact : info@monklandcheesedairy. co.uk

STUDIO SPACE AND WRITER’S ROOM AVAILABLE for daytime let, central Presteigne. Utilities included and fair rates. 01544 260889.

LET’S GET IT DONE! Highly recommended woodworker and cabinet maker William Warbrick works on a wide range of projects, from simple shelving to complex bespoke furniture. Free quotations provided. A good range of previous work can be seen at www.williamwarbrick.com Contact:- williamwarbrick@hotmail.com. 07901 741836

MATHS & SCIENCE TUITION Primary level to GCSE. Qualified teacher with years of experience with a wide range of abilities and needs. Transform your child’s confidence and outlook. “My son is really buzzing after the lessons.” Year 10 parent. “From U in mocks to A at GCSE! Thank you!” “My daughter’s maths skills have lept forward!” Year 4 parent. Fully insured and enhanced DBS certificate. Phillip Creasey 0744 9922639.

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

CHESS? YES! Boarders Chess Club meets every Tuesday 4-8pm at The Lion Café, Kington. All levels and ages welcome. Free trial membership.

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.

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

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.

LIVING IN CHAOTIC TIMES? – Join us in simple guided meditations to help you take control of anxiety, fear, anger, grief and bereavement. 10am – 10.30am first Saturday, each month, online, free – supporting Presteigne Food Bank. For further details email docsingh.ting@gmail.com

VIOLIN/VIOLA LESSONS All styles, all ages, beginners to advanced. Help with composition, theory, aural training. Accompaniment also offered. Ring Tony on 01544 321925 or visit his website: http://camelmusic.co.uk for a CV and more information.

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

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

GUITAR SETUPS AND REPAIRS. Electric and Acoustic guitars. Based in Ludlow. Neck relief, action height, saddle radius, bridge adjustment, intonation, fretboard treatment, fret polish, pickup height, electrics service, electrical screening, cleaning etc. Friendly professional service, fast turnaround. Can collect. Call 07770 321 904.

CO-WORKING SPACE IN LUDLOW Desks available for a few hours, a day, or longer at WorkPlace at the Ludlow Mascall Centre. Includes Wi-Fi, parking, and tea and coffee. Designated desks also available on a monthly basis. Contact director@ludlowmascallcentre.co.uk or 01584 873882 for details.

BEEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS Interested in keeping bees yourself? We run practical, hands-on courses, give talks and provide one-to-one tuition. For further information phone 07813 276308 or 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

P/T OR OCCASIONAL WORK WANTED Cheerful, fit, educated, mature woman seeks employment. Clean driving licence, DBS checked. Anything considered from office/ business support to house sitting including driving, gardening and dog walking. Phone Katy 01547 520328.

WANTED: Gentlemen’s clothing and accessories –good quality & vintage. Cash paid. Peter: 07980 693980. LOST FOR WORDS? Experienced magazine, newspaper and book editor, advertising copywriter, journalist, author and longstanding Broad Sheep contributor can edit, re-write, proof read, research or write from scratch, whatever you need word-wise. Modest fees, quick turnaround. williams.mark1@gmail.com

VIOLIN & VIOLA LESSONS given by experienced professional in Presteigne. All abilities and styles taught. John Hymas 07969 440183. PRESTEIGNE POP CHOIR Every Thursday. Contact John Hymas for details: 07969 440183. john@johnhymas.com

Music Shop - only a one minute walk from the main car park. Hay’s destination shop packed with pre-loved -ma chine cleaned and new vinyl records, CDs, Books and more.

Tel: 07527 298199. Hay’s Headline Making Independent

HAYSTACKS MUSIC, Backfold, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5EQ.

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A Philosopher’s Christmas philosophy

OU’RE a philosopher - so tell me, what’s the meaning of life?’ If only I had a pound for every time I’ve been on the receiving end of this little gem. Another irritating assumption is that since you’re a philosopher you’ll be able to answer ANY questions, even ones that are futile, such as ‘What would Plato have thought of the decision to scrap the winter fuel allowance?’ Give me strength!

But occasionally - just occasionally - a question comes along that you can actually get your teeth into. A while back an acquaintance explained that he was trying to ‘get to grips’ with philosophy, to ﬁnd out what it is, what it’s for, and how it works. Having dipped into various books he ended up ten times more bewildered than at the beginning. Could I help?

Not easy. Yes, there are books for beginners but often they’re too complicated and - dare I say? - offputting. Then it struck me: he need look no further than Christmas. Looming large on the horizon, Christmas provides excellent examples of the kinds of questions that are guaranteed to get philosophers over-excited.

A good start would be questions about TRUTH. It may come as a shock to some younger readers to learn that Christmas is a religious festival, a celebration of an event alleged to have happened 2000 years ago concerning a miraculous birth, rather than an excuse for a spending spree. But here comes the question - is it true? If you think long and hard about truth, you ﬁnd that it leads to other questions. For instance, what are we saying when we claim something is ‘true’? Can something be true for me, but not for you? Is truth simply a matter of opinion? Such questions lead you to think about facts. Are facts timeless or are they simply a reﬂection of how we happen to see things today? Today’s facts become tomorrow’s myths? The Theory of Knowledge, or EPISTEMOLOGY, is a major topic in philosophy.

The Christmas story also provides plenty of opportunity for PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION, with questions about god/s, atheism, agnosticism, miracles, theodicy, human destiny and the nature of faith. Plenty of material here to give any decent philosopher sleepless nights. Not forgetting the little matter of the often strained relationship between religion and science.

Of course, people have different views on the ‘right’ way to celebrate Christmas. Some regard the everincreasing commercialization of Christmas as being in the worst possible taste. But at the end of the day, is taste simply a personal preference? In claiming that this painting is ‘better’ than that one, what criteria are we using? We’re plunging here into the deep waters of AESTHETICS. But as soon as we have to judge between actions, rather than paintings, we’re in the even deeper waters of ETHICS. For instance, is it morally acceptable to kill and eat animals? What rights does the hapless

Christmas turkey have?

Once you start thinking about food production you’re well on the way to thinking about how to take better care of the planet. Questions about personal responsibility soon come to the fore. What can the individual do to improve the global community? But perhaps we are living in a world where the cult of the individual has undermined the very notion of community? Have we forgotten that we all need one another? Which raises key questions about the idea of justice. What makes a just society? Ethical questions take us into the nooks and crannies of everyday life.

Philosophy is also to do with trying to be clear in our thinking. For instance, the card wishes us a ‘Happy Christmas’ but what exactly is happiness? What kinds of things make us happy? Is pleasure the key to a happy life?

So, remember the man who wanted to ‘get to grips’ with philosophy, the man responsible for this article? What should he do? Well, he should understand that philosophy is about thinking, but not just any old thinking. It’s thinking long and hard. Systematic thinking. Thinking till it hurts. Not letting go. The kind of thinking Iris Murdoch described as ‘like a dog with a bone’.

It’s a type of thinking born of curiosity. No curiosity, no philosophy. But it’s not only curiosity. Passion too plays a key part. He should spend time and energy on topics that ﬁre his curiosity. The passion will fuel his energy and his determination to analyze - and not let go. Also, philosophy helps him relish exploring what Russell calls ‘the region of liberating doubt’.

Christmas is a time for giving. Philosophy too has gifts to offer: adventure, mystery, wonder, progress, not to mention the occasional bad headache.

The man knows where the search starts, but not where it will end.

Philosopher-in-Residence

“Timely and relevant, a haunting half novel, half memoir, sparkling with truths, is an exploration of love that speaks to the human heart”

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£9.99

Merry Christmas! is a moving, reimagined version of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol for the 21st Century. If that master storyteller were around today, he would surely be entertained by this clever rendition.

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museums and libraries

The Quiet American

HEREFORD’s City Library, that somewhat quirky fourstorey Italianate building facing the Cathedral Close, designed by the architect Frederick Kempson, celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. On 8th October 1874, every shop in the city closed, with a hugely impressive procession of 3,000 well-drilled local schoolchildren marching down Broad Street for ‘municipal speeches’, followed by a Mayoral lunch. Every child in the parade received a commemorative medal, plus a slice of the 3,600 lbs of cake, produced by the city’s 20 bakers. The day’s events culminated in ﬁreworks on Castle Green.

The City has remained steadfast as the Kempson building’s loyal custodian for one-and-a-half centuries (a major expansion into adjacent Aubrey Street took place in 1912). Now, thanks in part to the largesse of the last government’s Stronger Towns Fund, a £13-million re-modelling of the old Library’s interior spaces is taking place, with a view to transforming it next year into what local MP Jesse Norman wants to be a Landmark Museum. Facing the Cathedral’s Mappa Mundi museum and only a stone’s throw from Castle Green’s newly restored Pavilion, it looks as if HC has ﬁnally got its tourism priorities right.

Design work at Broad Street has been entrusted to MICA Architects, founded by Oregen-born Rick Mather (aka ‘The Quiet American’) who died in 2013. After studying at the AA, Mather worked for Lyons, Israel & Ellis before quickly making a name for himself in the rareﬁed microclimate of museum design. His exemplary makeovers of Dulwich College’s Art Gallery and his Stirling Prize-nominated Ashmolean Museum, Oxford are always cited as unshowy masterpieces; he tried manfully to transform the monolithic London South Bank’s Arts Centre into something magical; but the Wallace Collection, Manchester Square behind Selfridges remains my favourite cultural bolt hole to this day. MICA’s exemplary restoration of Hay Castle won this year’s RSAW Welsh Building of the Year award.

All Hereford’s reference and loan books will be consigned to a re-ﬁtted Shire Hall. following a spiteful tit-fortat between the two main political parties over the previous plan to shoe-horn Broad Street’s books into three adjoining vacant units in the Maylord Centre, needlessly sacriﬁcing £000s of lost rental in the process. The larger and more challenging cultural transformation for the city will be the international MACE consortium’s thee-year programme to transform Sir Robert Smirke’s Grade II-listed Shire Hall into a 21st century city library. MACE are big hitters, with such projects as Tottenham’s 62,000-capacity stadium, Renzo Piano’s all-glass Shard and the South Bank’s Ferris wheel, The Eye. Provisional cost estimates for repairing and converting the Smirke building are a paltry £3.1m. Hereford and Worcester have seldom seen eye-to-eye on civic improvements: retail mix (including the handling of newbuild shopping precincts), pedestrianisation, parking, the ‘celebration’ of their respective river frontages or state-ofthe-art libraries. So with funds stretched to the limit, don’t expect the refurbished Shire Hall to be another HIVE.

Hereford heroes In Broad Street the 1874 Kempson building will beneﬁt from a much-needed basement-to-roof

The Wallace CollectionLondon’s best cultural bolt hole

spatial transformation with room to ﬂex it’s muscles with ‘celebrations’ of one-and-a-half centuries of achievements. The painstaking cleaning of those 100+ carved stone fauna and ﬂora (paid for by the Woolhope Club’s President James Rankin) needs specialist attention. The library management’s display of three-dimensional artefacts – as contrasting in style as the clock from an old city cinema, to a section of the Roman mosaic paving unearthed at Kenchester - was perhaps the least successful of the handling of the old building’s interior spaces. Tragically, its historic Costumes Collection was unceremoniously consigned to the Victorian villa Churchill House, then into store, though there are hopes that a small part of the collection of 900 paintings, drawings and sketches by local artist Brian Hatton (also once stored at Churchill House) may now be found a permanent home in Broad Street.

MICA’s designers have hinted that they would like to bring the roof of the Kempson building into the equation, with a 360 degree Viewing Beacon and Roof Terrace. On a clear day there are spectacular views southwards towards the Early Bronze Age hill fort of Dinedor Camp, location of a ceremonial burial path leading down to the River Wye, which was first discovered - then hastily re-buried - in 2008. There is also a possibility that what has become known as the Saxon Hoard, illegally removed by metal detectorists from a field at Eye, Leominster, may get its first public viewing in the upgraded Hereford Museum. The Hoard is currently stored in the vaults of the British Museum and the two treasure hunters are behind bars.

So, which local heroes might be celebrated in MICA’s remodelled Kempson building? John Venn, local benefactor and founder of the Hereford Society for Aiding the Industrious, for sure. And why not Nell Gwynn - born in a cottage only 200m away. Or Violette Szabo GC, WWII’s most highly decorated female combatant. Then there’s Sir Frank Whittle who, with metalworking specialists at Holmer-based Wiggins, took aeroengine design into the 20th century; the doughty Canary Girls munitions workers of Rotherwas; or those two architectural students (Powell and Moya) who set the night sky of London’s Festival of Britain ablaze in 1951 with their totemic Skylon, fabricated and site-assembled by local engineers from Painters. With Paris 2024 in mind, how about a hologram of the Skylon atop the Museum’s new Roof Terrace, to be switched on for such events as the May Fair, the River Regatta, the Food Festivals and H-Art? STOP PRESS. Work is due to start before Christmas on Hereford’s long-delayed £10-million Transport Hub. Nick Jones

a view from the marches

Britain in Europe... A Returner’s personal perspective

IT is likely that the apparent burgeoning of nationalist and tribal attitudes around the world is a temporary phenomenon – a momentary regression in the development of mankind. Nevertheless, unless Sapiens as a whole engages in a conscious determination to re-embrace the evolutionary imperative of living in universal harmony through tolerance and compassion, it is possible that within the next century the human race will have destroyed itself in a global war.

If by the end of the century this hasn’t happened, Britain will almost certainly have become once again part of a large cultural, commercial and political alliance that will include the countries of the European Union, and probably others beyond. For this to happen, those of us British returners who perceive reunion with the nations nearest to us as paramount, must aim to see it achieved swiftly, and with the support of a majority of the nation’s electorate.

Now that the effects of the pandemic have dissipated, the fundamental disadvantages of not being in Europe are manifest, as trade with our nearest markets suffers from the constraints and penalties of moving goods through international borders. The important, highly proﬁtable and tax-generating British ﬁnancial services industry has been undermined by restrictions on trade with Europe. Hard-nosed pragmatic operators have moved from London to Amsterdam, Dublin and Paris.

The obvious failure of the Brexit that was promised has gone a long way to change the minds of many of the 17 million of our 46 million electorate who asked to leave the EU. Many of them feared continuing immigration but while they’ve seen the end of the inward movement of Europeans to bolster our labour force put more pressure on public services and constraints on economic growth, the numbers of commonwealth immigrants have increased to ﬁll the gaps.

But re-joining Europe isn’t just about productivity and money. For responsible, forward-thinking Britons, the most important reason for returning to Europe is that it is fundamental to the harmonious co-existence of all members of the human race, through the removal of another potential cause of conﬂict.

For many, there are strong emotional reasons too. I have enjoyed and been proud to be part of a geographic and cultural grouping of great diversity. During our membership of the EU it was a pleasure to welcome people from all over Europe as dentists and farm-workers, bankers and plumbers, artists and chefs. They’ve given extra depth to a nation which has already beneﬁ tted signiﬁcantly from recurring waves of immigration since the arrival of the Celts in the 1st millennium BC, the Romans of the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, the Angles and Saxons, the Vikings, the Normans of the C11th and, over the last millennium, the arrival and integration of Jews, Huguenots, White Russians and Poles, Caribbeans, Greek and Turkish Cypriots, Africans and Indians. A large proportion of these

people brought with them talents and a determination to succeed that have greatly broadened our culture and our economy (and our international sporting success).

Many of us want, once again, to be members of this community of over 500 million which can use its unique depth of knowledge and accumulated wisdom, as well as its ﬁscal muscle, to exert substantial, progressive inﬂuence on international policies on resources, population and global ecology; where, in a post-tribal world of evolutionary imperatives, the fate of humanity as a whole is more important than that of individual nations; whose priority is co-operation, not combat; consensus not diktat; whose people care about the just and balanced distribution of food, water and energy, and value the arts as tools of communication and a source of joy; who strive to overcome xenophobia and to embrace tolerance and empathy; who deplore the prospect of war anywhere in the world, who yet understand the need for visible strengths in defences that will be deployed when appropriate.

We also need leaders of our community who are committed to the continuing harmonisation of world populations; leaders who view the needs of the many as more important than those of the elite; leaders who believe that far greater beneﬁts will be achieved by forgiveness and reconciliation than by revenge and reprisal.

The European Commission isn’t perfect, but Britain, as one of the oldest democracies, would once again be an important element in the way it develops. There will always be differing views but differences can be reconciled when people understand that the alternative to compromise is war.

Britain must return to Europe and do all we can to understand our fellow Europeans as they must with us, in order to derail the inﬂuences that could lead to an ultimate global conﬂict. We are all accountable for the exercise of our evolutionary commitments, not only as citizens of Great Britain, but also as Europeans, and as members of the human race.

PetrusOnus

POWYS

Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth University, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DE www.aberystwthartscentre.co.uk

Until 4 Dec ‘Piazza Window’. LUCY BURNS.

Until 9 Feb ‘Floored’. ERIN HUGHES delves into the intricacies of her hand-marbled paper collage practice. In addition to the exhibition, Erin will lead skills-sharing workshops and an artist talk, both open to the public. Open daily 10am-8pm, Sun 1.30pm-5.30pm.

Wyeside, Builth Wells 01982 552555

Until 15 Dec ‘Reflections in Paint’. AUDREY BRADLEY - watercolour and mixed media. Tues-Fri 6pm-8.30pm, Sat & Sun 4pm-8.30pm.

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.

Ardent Gallery, 46 High St, Brecon, LD3 7AP 01874 623333

A wide variety of artwork. Open Tues-Sat 11am-5pm.

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

Temporary Gallery closure until spring for improvements. Work will continue in the community, check website for upcoming events.

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.

Minerva Arts Centre, High Street, Llanidloes 01686 413467

Until 24 Dec Christmas Craft Fair. Open daily 10.30am-4.30pm.

Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Near Newtown 01686 688369

Until 22 Dec ‘Big Winter Show’. Over 100 selected artists. 2 and 3D works in paintings, sculpture, textiles, drawings, mosaics, collage, prints, ceramics, photographs and glass. There will be a ‘People’s Choice’ prize of £500 and special section for ‘Young Artists’ under 18 and under 25. Cafe. Open Wed-Sun 11am-4pm.

The Old School, Knighton LD7 1EN www.h-art.org.uk

1, 7 & 8 Dec Christmas 2024 Open Studio. 12 artists and makers. Mulled wine and festive nibbles. 10am-3pm.

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.

Hay Castle, Oxford Road, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DG 01497 820079

Until 5 Jan SHARON CURTISprintmaker. In the Focus Gallery. Until 5 Jan JANE KEAY. In the Cafe Gallery.

Until 2 March QUENTIN BLAKEillustrations. In the Main Gallery. Open 10am-4.30pm.

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

Until 21 Dec LOIS HOPWOOD & LOTTIE O’LEARY. Open Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.

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

1 Dec MARK HARRELL. 2 - 8 Dec KATE CORBETT- WINDER STUDIO.

16 - 22 Dec STEVE HAIGH. 6 Jan - 2 Feb January Residency. Thurs-Sat 10am-3pm.

Tower House Gallery, 29 High Street, Knighton LD7 1AT 01547 529530 Gallery, shop, cafe. Open Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm.

The Hay Makers, St John’s Place, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BN 01497 820556 Dec/Jan Christmas exhibition. JANE LITTLEFIELD - stained glass. KAREN PARKER - jewellery. ROWAN MacGREGOR - metal sculpture. DEMELZA WHITLEY - ceramic sculpture. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm, 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.

Found Gallery, 1 Bulwark, Brecon LD3 7LB 07736 062849 www.foundgallery.co.uk

Until 21 Dec Festive Show at Found. JACQUELINE JONES & TIM ROSSITER - art. LEE WRIGHTprintmaker. HANNAH HUGHEStextiles. TOM BRIDGE - designer artisan. CAROLE KING - book binder. NIGEL LAMBERT - pottery. SOPHIE JANNEY & SZILVIA DOROGIjewellery. Tues-Sat 10am-4.30pm. The Workhouse Studio, Presteigne Industrial Estate 01544 267864 Rare antique carpets and kilims. Plus locally made pottery, art materials, textiles, haberdashery, jewellery, cards and gifts. Cafe. Open Wed-Sat 10am-4pm.

Knighton Museum, 1 Broad Street, Knighton Run by volunteers and reflects social history of the area. The majority of the exhibits have been either donated or lent by local people and reflect the varied history of this border town from the drovers to the flannel weavers; from trade to agriculture. Wed-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

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

Until 1 Feb Winter Show. A seasonal festive collection of paintings, drawings, printmaking, jewellery and ceramics. Tues-Sat 9.30am-5pm. Museum of Modern Art, Tabernacle, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth SY20 8AJ 01654 703355 info@moma.machynlleth.org.uk

Until 18 Jan ‘The Land isn’t Binary and neither am I’. KAAN K & ANGELA CHRISTOFILOU.

Until 25 Jan Young Welsh Artists. Until 25 Jan Tabernacle Collection: Glyndwr Award Winners. Tues - Fri 10am-4pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Rhayader Museum & Gallery, CARAD, East Street, Rhayader LD6 5ER 01597 810561 www.carad.org.uk

See CARAD.org.uk or FB CARAD for activities. Thurs-Sat 10.30am-4pm. Stiwdio Celf o Gwmpas, The Beaufort, Temple Street, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5HG www.celfogwmpas.org

Until 21 Dec Winter Art Sale; Celf Artists Network. Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm.

Drucilla Cole, SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle

Katie Parley, Apple Store Gallery, Hereford

Abigail Humphries, Studio & Gallery, Quality Square, Ludlow

Elizabeth Terzza, The Courtyard, Hereford

Shelly Perkins, The Artists’ Gallery, Bromfield, Ludlow

The Globe, Newport St, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5BG 01497 821762

1, 8 & 15 Dec Christmas Craft Fair, from 11am.

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.

Court Cupboard Gallery, New Court Farm, Llantillio Pertholey, Abergavenny NP7 8AU 01873 852011

ROSIE FAREY & MANDY COATS - baskets. SUSAN GALLAGHERpaintings. Open 11am-4pm. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EY 01597 258118

8 Dec Christmas Artisan market. Local arts, crafts, handmade and homemade items. Free entry. 10am-3pm. Celf O Gwmpas, Centre Celf, Tremont Road, Llandrindod Wells LD1 5EB 01597 822777

Until 12 Dec Llandrindod Art Group annual exhibition. Tues-Thurs 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm.

HEREFORDSHIRE

Ross Town Centre, Ross-on-Wye 1 Dec Ross Christmas Fayre. Serving mulled wine, mince pies and hot roast beef rolls, Santa’s Grotto, Ross Folk Choir and much more. 11am-5pm. Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com 14, 15, 21 & 22 Dec Festive Grotto: The Narnia Experience. Children will enter a magical winter wonderland. Visit the Queen of Narnia on her sleigh for a present, a scrummy piece of Turkish Delight and mulled wine for mums/dads. 11am-3pm, £19.

19 Jan The Crafty Flea Market. A blend of of vintage and contemporary treasures, 10am-4pm, free entry. 26 Jan Jumble and Pearls. A classy vintage pop-up! A selection of vintage gold and unique underground designer labels. Enjoy the vibe with a DJ spinning funky soul vinyl while you shop. 10am-4pm, free entry.

Herefordshire Archive & Records Centre, Fir Tree Lane, Hereford HR2 6LA 01432 260750

Until 31 Dec ‘Walking the Common’. An exhibition of a year-long creative collaborative investigation into Herefordshire’s Commons. Tues-Fri and Sat (second in month) 10am-4pm.

Kindle Centre, Belmont Rd, Hereford HR2 7JE 079380 10638

1 - 23 Dec ‘God with Us’. A Christmas exhibition by artist JANA LIGHT. Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm.

Lion Ballroom, 17 Broad St, Leominster HR6 8DB 01568 612277

14 Dec Christmas market. 10am-3pm. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury HR8 2LY 01531 660504 www.hellensmanor.com

4, 5 & 7 Dec Christmas House tours. A guided tour of Hellens Manor exploring the folk and plant lore of Christmastide.

8 Dec Hellens Christmas Craft Market. Warming firepit, local craftspeople, demonstrations, festive drinks and snacks, open 10am-4pm, please car share or book a slot.

High Street, Ledbury

6 Dec Late Night Shopping with carol singers, charity mistletoe sale, brass band, street food, mulled wine, Morris dancers, roasted chestnuts and more. Open until 8pm.

Weavers Gallery, Church Lane, Ledbury 07881 926661

1 Dec MOSTLY FELT. Textile art. 3 - 14 Dec ‘Designed for Christmas. Six local makers. Open daily 10am-4pm.

RidgeBank Contemporary Art Space, 1 High St, Kington HR5 3AX 6 Dec - 4 Jan Winter Show.

CAROLINE ALLEN, REBECCA FINNEY, MELANIE GARRICK, KATY GUEST, POLLY MILLER, JANE O’CONNOR, IAN PENNELL, MAT PRICE, RACHEL RICKETS, EPHA J ROE, WAYNE SUMMERS, MATTHEW WOOD. Open Wed-Sat 12pm-5pm. 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.

1 Station Approach, Hereford www.meadowarts.org

Until April 2025 ‘Baroque Sprawl’ LAURA WHITE. This bold installation celebrates creativity and connectivity and is inspired by Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. Commissioned by Meadow Arts and Hereford College of Arts.

The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford 01432 340555

Until 11 Jan ‘Tree Stories’

ELIZABETH TERZZA - large abstract paintings and unique handcrafted jewellery.

16 Jan - 10 Feb ‘Wyesart’. A collection of over 50 artworks by local artist JOHN SYMONDS. The exhibition is displayed in themes: Trees, Water, Endangered Species, Herefordshire and Heritage. 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.

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

Gallery run by a cooperative of 22 artists and makers. Basket maker HELEN MUNDAY, blacksmiths STEPHEN MCRAE and JENNY PICKFORD, 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 CAROLINE GREEN, IVAN JONES, TRUDI FOGGO, JO DEWAR and JANE ASTON, photographer CRAIG DODDS, sculptor ALAN RICHARDSON, 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.

Old Stable Gallery, Leominster Tourist Information Centre, Corn Square, Leominster 01568 616460 Dec MELVYN WOOD. Open 9.30am-4pm.

Wobage Makers Gallery, Upton Bishop, Ross-on-Wye HR9 7QP 01989 720495 www.wobage.co.uk

Until 21 Dec Christmas exhibition. Pots, prints, jewellery, willow and wood. Handmade at Wobage workshops. BEN CASSON - furniture and kitchenwood. LYNN HODGSONwood carving and kitchenwood. PATIA DAVIS - slip decorated earthenware and porcelain. JEREMY STEWARDwood-fired salt-glazed stoneware and porcelain. PETRA STEWARD - woodfired salt-glazed stoneware and collagraph prints. CLYDE JEFFERSON - willow basketry. CLAIR HODGSON - gold, silver and semi-precious stone earrings. Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm.

Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral 01432 374200 14 Dec Cathedral Craft Fair. Until 5 April ‘Seeds of Eternity’. Celebrating 17th century poet Thomas Traherne. (Closed from 1 - 31 Jan for essential cleaning and conservation). Mon-Sat Cathedral Tours 11.05pm & 2.15pm, £6 per person. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Admission charges apply.

STAINED GLASS COURSES

With Nicola Hopwood

at Brilley (near Hay-on-Wye) Herefordshire

Sat 12th - Tues 15th April

Sat 17th - Tues 20th May

Sat 20th - Tues 23rd September

Sat 18th - Tues 21st October

Long weekend workshops for beginners and those with some experience, in a lively and supportive atmosphere.

Course fee: £300 per person (plus materials)

Please phone 01497 820177 visit www.nicolahopwood.co.uk or email info@nicolahopwood. co.uk

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

Until end of Jan ‘Winter Curiosities’. Featuring TAMSIN ABBOTT, JEMIMA JAMESON, MARY GRIFFIN, HELEN MARTINO, RACHEL WRIGHT, ELAINE PETO, LYN HARRISON, JOHN EXTON, HILKE MACINTYRE, ROZIE KEOGH, LYNDA JONES. Come along and enjoy our exciting Christmas Collection of British Contemporary handmade Arts and Crafts. Including paintings, original prints, stained glass, ceramics, sculpture, wearables, bronzes, jewellery, lighting, glass, candles and cards…something for everyone this Festive Season!

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.

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

Dec Gallery artists featuring STUART ELLIS, LEYLA MURR, STEPHEN RIPPINGTON. New work by JOHN MAXWELL STEELE and TESSA HOUGHTON. Thurs-Sat 10am-4pm.

South Chapel, All Saints Church, Hereford 01432 370414

2 - 6 Dec CRAFTY LADIES - sale of handmade crafts ideal for Christmas. Open 10am-3pm.

Until 16 Dec Sale of Charity Christmas cards with cards for good causes. Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm.

Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1, Rockfield Road, Hereford HR1 2UA 01432 263937

www.applestoregallery.com

Until 21 Dec ‘Christmas Delights’. ASG studio artists and guests. Open again from late Jan for 2025 programme of exhibitions. Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-1pm.

SHROPSHIRE

Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow 01584 878141

17 Jan - 8 March ‘Vibrant Moods and Tempos. LOUISE C EAMESabstract paintings. Mon-Sat 10am-7pm.

Brampton Bryan, near Bucknell 1 Dec Christmas Open Studios and demonstrations. The makers and artists at Brampton Bryan will open their studios, demonstrating skills and giving information about classes on offer. Featuring Alice Draws The Line, Isatu Hyde, Brocante Living, Beauty by Katie and Melissa Hunt Jewellery. Open 10am-4pm.

The Bridges Pub, Ratlinghope SY5 0ST 01588 650260

www.thebridgespub.co.uk

5 Dec Christmas market.

Studio & Gallery, Quality Square, Ludlow SY8 1AR 01584 751277 www.abigailhumphriesart.com

Dec 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

7 Dec Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm.

7 Dec Christmas Lights Festival. Until 21 Dec CASTLE ARTISTS.

4 Jan Antiques & Flea Market, 9am-4pm.

4 Jan - 4 Feb ANN KELLY. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 630321

Dec & Jan DRUCILLA COLE.

Exhibition of prints raising money for the SpArC Swimming Pool Campaign. Open Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm, Sat & Sun 9am-12pm.

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!

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

Until 24 Dec BORDERLANDS VISUAL ARTS - ceramics, jewellery, paintings, photographs, prints, sculpture, textiles. Jan New Year Open exhibition. 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

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

1 Dec Aardvark Christmas Fair. Over 20 stalls, live music, free mulled wine. Free entry, 10am-3pm.

Open Tues-Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays 10am-4pm

Castle Square, Ludlow 3, 10 & 17 Dec Tinsel Tuesdays. Local independent makers, gifts, live music and hot food. Open 9am-4pm.

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

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

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.

Until 23 Dec Meet Father Christmas.

7 Dec - 15 Dec A Christmas Carol Tours, 11am-2pm.

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.

Dec & Jan Visiting artists include SARAH KINNERSLEY - jewellery. MEGAN EVANS - collagraph prints. NICK MARSH - ceramics. ROSANNA TASKER - illustrations. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm.

Art & Craft Workshops

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

h.ART - HEREFORDSHIRE ART WEEK

6 - 14 September 2025. Are you an artist wanting to be part of h.Art this year? To Take Part complete the online forms @ h-art.org.uk/take-part between 4 Feb - 4 March. Or get in touch info@h-art.org.uk

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. 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 hometreasure 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

Mon 2 & Tues 3 December

FESTIVE WREATH WORKSHOPS

2 Dec, 6-9pm, £85 including deli board. 3 Dec, 10am-2pm, £85 including afternoon tea. Castle House Hotel, Hereford, please book, 01432 356321, www.castlehse.co.uk

Thurs 12 December

A NATURAL CHRISTMAS

Abergavenny Flower Arrangement Society demonstration with Angela Turner. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7pm, 01873 850805.

Sat 14 December, Sat 11 & Sat 25 January ERIN HUGHES WORKSHOPS

14 Dec - Polymer Clay Marbling (great for families), 2pm-4pm, free. 11 Jan - Paper Marbling for all abilities, 2pm-4pm, free. 25 Jan - Collaging with Marbled Papers, 2pm-4pm, £20 per adult. 2D Room, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk/visual-arts or email 0elhughes0@gmail.com.

December THE STABLES, MADLEY

4 Dec - Christmas Door Swag, 11am-1pm. 18 Dec - Christmas Table Decoration, 11am-1pm. All workshops £25, all materials included, no previous experience necessary. Please book 07379 499984, noellaplasman@gmail.com

December THE HUB, PETERCHURCH

3 Dec - Christmas Wreath Making Workshop, 11am1pm, £35, all materials provided, just bring secateurs and scissors. 17 Dec - Christmas Table Decoration Workshop, 11am-1pm, £25, all materials provided, just bring secateurs and scissors. The Hub, Peterchurch. Please book, 07379 499984, noellaplasman@gmail.com

December LEOMINSTER COMMUNITY CENTRE

5 Dec - Christmas Door Hanging, 1-3pm, £25, all materials provided, just bring secateurs and scissors. 19 Dec - Christmas Table Decoration, 1-3pm, £25, all materials provided, just bring secateurs and scissors. Please book, 07379 499984, noellaplasman@gmail.com

Sat 1 December CHRISTMAS CRAFT DAY

Wreath making, pottery painting, plus a mince pie and glass of festive mulled wine. Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-5pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com.

Fri 6 & Sat 7 December IKEBANA

Courses and demonstrations in Ikebana (Ohara School) by teacher and 3rd Master, Noella Plasman-Jones. New for 2024, Residental Ikebana Introductory courses in Herefordshire. 07379 499984, www.discovering-ikebana. com

December SHROPSHIRE HILLS DISCOVERY CENTRE

14 Dec - Christmas Crafts and Santa’s Grotto. Hour slot, join Santa’s elf to make a tree decoration, a puffy paint picture and more. Meet Santa and receive a gift. 11am-3pm, booking essential, £10 per child. 31 DecNew Year’s Eve Family Fun. Make a balloon animal, bake a new year’s treat, make a confetti popper plus more. For ages 4-11 years, 11am-3pm drop in, £4.50. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 01588 676060.

December APPLE STORE GALLERY

20 Jan - Drypoint with Jess Bugler, 10am-3.30pm, £65. 21 Jan - Towards Abstraction with Allison Neal, 10am3.30pm, £65. Apple Store Gallery, Unit 1 Rockfield Rd, Hereford, HR1 2UA, www.applestoregallery.com 01432 263937.

December MID WALES ARTS CENTRE

7 Dec - Mosaic Workshop with a Christmas decoration theme, 10am-4pm, £65. 14 Dec & 11 Jan - Monthly Family Pottery Workshop, 2pm-4pm, £10, child £8. 14 Dec & 11 Jan - Monthly Life Drawing Class, £20 students £16. Every Wed - Talking Art, artists talk about their work, 2-4pm, free. Weekly Pottery Club, Thurs 2-4pm & 7pm9pm (term time), Fri 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Newtown, 01686 688369.

December HAY CASTLE

Hay Castle, Oxford Rd, Hay-on-Wye, 01497 820079, www.haycastletrust.org

December THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

Tues - Playing Together, interactive play session for older adults and pre-school children with accompanying parents/ carers, 11am-12pm, £3. Thurs - Hereford Life Drawing, 10am-1pm, £8. The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford, 01432 340555.

December THE ART SHOP & CHAPEL

The Art Shop & Chapel, Market St, Abergavenny, 01873 852690.

December 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

December SHREWSBURY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

Tues until 10 Dec - Museum Babies, a weekly drop-in, sensory play session for babies aged 0-18 months, 10am-12pm. First Sat of the month - Create and Connect. Bringing together refugee and local families in a fun, welcoming and supporting environment, 1.30pm-3pm, for ages 4+, £3. Until 25 April - Early Years Storytelling Workshop - Sun and Fire. using storytelling, music, art and roleplay, children will step back in time and discover how people lived long ago, 10am-12pm. Until 23 Dec - Meet Father Christmas. Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Market Square, Shrewsbury, 01743 258881.

December & January HEREFORD CATHEDRAL

9 Dec - 11 Jan - Nativity Family Trail. Discover the story of the Nativity, collect your free trail from the Welcome Desk and collect a sticker once your’ve completed the worksheet. 10 Dec - Christmas Lego Club, 3.45-5pm, free and booking is not required. Mondays term timeToddler 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. January, February, March ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY ONLINE COURSES

22 Jan - ‘A few Days of Mosaic’. £70. 5 Feb - Natural History Illustration: Mosses, Lichens and Liverworts’. £70. 1 March - ‘Introduction to Art and Art History’. £130. Aberystwyth University online courses. Details 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

December 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 on specific dates throughout December and January. POTTERS WHEEL COURSES 4, 15, 18, 25 & 26 January. Day £180. Weekend £340 per person. Spend the day or weekend relaxing and creating pots on the potter’s wheel. Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor, near Ledbury. Please check availability and book online, www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Email admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk or telephone 01531 633886.

January, February, March ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY IN PERSON COURSES

15 Jan - Material Spaces: Fine Art Textiles, £130.

5 Feb - Natural History Illustration: Intriguing Insects, £70. 5 Feb - Natural History Illustration: Seaweed, £70.

7 Feb - Just Ink!, £130. 10 Feb - Cover to Cover: Altered Books, £140. 18 Feb - Hooked on Wool, £130.

1 March - Handbuilt Ceramics, £70. 19 Feb - Fibre to Form: Basketry Techniques, £80. Aberystwyth University. Details 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

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

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 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.

Wednesdays DRINK AND DRAW

Weekly life drawing group for all abilities. Bring your own materials and just turn up. Ty Tan Gallery (opposite the Blue Boar), Hay-on-Wye, 7-9.30pm, block book in advance £90 for 10 weeks or drop-in for £11, 07855 628627.

3rd Friday of every month FRIDAY CRAFT CLUB

Bring your crafts. Good company with tea and cake, no booking required. Pot & Page, 8 New Street, Ledbury, 10.30am-12.30pm.

SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE (15) – 97MINS

The abject cruelties of the notorious Magdalene Laundries have been subjected to filmic censure before in Stephen Frear’s PHILOMENA whose star, Judy Dench, was criticised for not being Irish, and Peter Mullan’s THE MAGDELENE SISTERS which was a bit OTT. But here we have Irish actor (and producer) Cillian Murphy as Bill, a thoughtful, hard-working 1980s coal merchant, whose pregnant unmarried mother narrowly avoided a life of misery thanks to a wealthy benefactor. Delivering coal to the local laundry which is right next door to his daughter’s school and run by a pious, self-justifying mother superior (Emily Watson), he sees first-hand the barbarity that exists within. Under the direction of Tim Mielants, who Murphy worked with in PEAKY BLINDERS and based on Claire Keegan’s eponymous novel, Bill endures conflicting emotions in a society where the prescriptive tentacles of the Catholic church extend into all corners of his County Wexford home. A tough but rewarding watch.

Reviews by Mark Williams

COURTYARD, HEREFORD

2 & 3 Dec F IS FOR FAKE (PG) Young Film Programmers’ Truth Season

2 Dec CLEO FROM 5 TO 7 / CLEO DE 5 A 7 (PG)

Until 4 Dec BLITZ (12A)

Until 4 Dec SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE (12A)

Until 30 Dec PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG)

Until 2 Jan THE WILD ROBOT (U)

3 - 20 Dec THE PROBLEM WITH PEOPLE (15)

3 & 11 Dec SNOW LEOPARD (ctbc)

6 - 12 Dec GLADIATOR II (15)

9 - 18 Dec THE APPRENTICE (15)

9 - 18 Dec JUROR #2 (ctbc)

11 & 18 Dec IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U)

11 Dec HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (U) Food Bank donation screening

15 Dec THE POLAR EXPRESS (U) Pyjama Party screening

8 - 14 Dec TANGERINE (15) Radix Film Club

22 Dec HOME ALONE (PG) Christmas jumper screening 11 & 12 Dec LAYLA (15)

13 & 16 Dec THE OUTRUN (15)

26 Dec - 9 Jan WICKED: PART ONE (PG)

17 Dec - 4 Jan MOANA 2 (PG)

27 Dec - 3 Jan PIECE BY PIECE (PG)

4 - 23 Jan CONCLAVE (12A)

6 - 16 Jan MERCHANT IVORY (ctbc)

6 - 9 Jan ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT (15)

10 - 23 Jan WE LIVE IN TIME (15)

10 - 23 Jan BETTER MAN (ctbc)

ABERGAVENNY FILM SOC.

4 Dec KIDNAPPED (12)

18 Dec TO BE CONFIRMED

8 Jan ANATOMY OF A FALL (15)

22 Jan DRIVING MUM (12)

5 Feb AMA GLORIA (12) Melville Centre, Pen y Pound, Abergavenny NP7 5UD. Check for times. A limited number of seats available for non-members aged 18+ www.abergavennyfilmsociety.com

ALBERT HALL, LLANDRINDOD

Throughout Dec ACCESSIBLE

CINEMA Present low cost relaxed film screenings of the most popular Christmas films. Full details see website. The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 0300 1022 4255, www.thealberthall.co.uk

ASSEMBLY ROOMS, LUDLOW

11 Jan FRONTLINE FOLKLORE Assembly Rooms, Mill St, Ludlow, 01584 878141

BRECON FILM SOCIETY

2 Dec RED ISLAND (12A)

6 Jan AMERICAN FICTION (15)

3 Feb IO CAPITANO (15) 7.30pm, Brecon Coliseum Cinema, Wheat St, Brecon. 01874 620642

CONQUEST, BROMYARD

10 Dec GHOSTBUSTERS - FROZEN EMPIRE (12A)

3 Jan BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE (ctbc)

17 Jan THE BIKERIDERS (ctbc) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard. 01885 488575

11 Jan BUFFALO KIDS (PG) Free pre-activity from 10.30am

13 Jan ON BECOMING A GUINEA FOWL (ctbc) Radix Film Club

14 & 16 Jan A ROOM WITH A VIEW (1985) (PG)

17 & 18 Jan THE COMMANDER (ctbc)

24 Jan - 6 Feb MARIA (ctbc)

29 Jan GILDA (1962) (PG) Classic Film Club

The Courtyard Theatre, Edgar St, Hereford 01432 340555

THE EDGE ARTS CENTRE

2 Dec THELMA (12A)

5 Dec GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY (12A)

9 Dec A STREET CAT NAMED BOB (12A)

12 Dec THE MAN IN THE HAT (12A)

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911

2 Dec THELMA (12A) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911

2 Dec MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1994) (U) Welshpool Assembly Room 01938 552043

2 Dec THE BISHOP’S WIFE (U) Claverley VH 07967 540531

3 Dec THE TASTE OF THINGS (12A) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

4 Dec THELMA (12A) Cardington VH 01694 771295

4 Dec THELMA (12A) Diddlebury VH 07396 730342

4 Dec WOMAN AT WAR (12A) The Phoenix Theatre, Ross on Wye 07789 778048

4 Dec HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (PG) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

5 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Brilley VH 01544 327227

5 Dec WILD TARGET (12) Lindridge Parish Hall 01584 881615

6 Dec ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN Bedstone & Hopton Castle VH 01547 530282

6 Dec BACK TO BLACK (15) Staunton on Wye VH 01981 500415

6 Dec WITHNAIL & I (15) Habberley VH 07977 127161

6 Dec WONKA (PG) Fownhope New Memorial Hall 01432 860717

6 Dec WONKA (PG) Bitterley VH 01584 318047

6 Dec THELMA (12A) The Old Picture House, Kington 07855 254590

6 Dec THELMA (12A) Kelsall Methodist Hall 01829 752931

6 Dec HOME ALONE 2 - LOST IN NEW YORK (PG) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

7 Dec PERFECT DAYS (PG) Lady Emily Hall, Tarrington 01432 890720

7 Dec THE POLAR EXPRESS (U) Hanley Broadheath VH 07471 192649

7 Dec GOING IN STYLE (12A) Ombersley Memorial VH 01905 620350

7 Dec A CHRISTMAS CAROL (1984) (U) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

7 Dec BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Callow End VH 0333 666 3366

7 Dec WONKA (PG) Ballingham Old School Hall 07967 017759

8 Dec THE HOLIDAY (12A) The Simpson Hall, Burghill 07726 148736

INTO

THE NEW YEAR

Extending well into 2025, our double issue is necessarily a little light on details but in second guessing upcoming January fare here are two that should merit your viewing pleasure. Andrea Arnold, whose breakout FISHTANK debuted in 2009 returns to a council estate setting where pre-pubescent Bailey, a luminous Nykiya Adams, is wedged between Bug, her doting, conspiracy theorist father, (SALTBURN’s Barry Keoghan) and a delicate, itinerant young man who claims he can ﬂy, the titular Bird (15) played by Franz Rogowski, (PASSAGES). And Bailey’s coming-of-age relationships with these two is a joy to behold. But whilst the same cannot quite be said of Anora (18) as played by Mikey Madison (ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD) in another self-titled comedy-drama, she gives a no less stunning performance as a savvy, scrappy Brooklyn sex-worker mixed up in a gloriously rumbunctious vortex of internecine chaos after being hired by Ivan (a fabulously slippery Mark Eydelshteyn), the uberspoilt son of a Russian oligarch. Punchily directed by Sean Baker (THE FLORIDA PROJECT), it’s not to be missed.

9 Dec 23 WALKS (12A) All Stretton VH 07812 583113

9 Dec A STREET CAT NAMED BOB (12A) The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911

10 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Garway Hall 01600 750465

10 Dec THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Ashford Carbonell VH 01584 831574

11 Dec THE ROAD DANCE (15)

Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

11 Dec LOVE ACTUALLY (15) Hope Bowdler VH 01694 721376

12 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15)

Leintwardine Community Centre 07572 442903

12 Dec KINKY BOOTS (12A) Silvester Horne Institute, Church Stretton 07429 237955

12 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Much Birch Community Hall 01981 540097

12 Dec WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Pencombe and Little Cowarne Parish Hall 07960 726717

12 Dec THE MAN IN THE HAT (12A)

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 01952 728911

13 Dec WONKA (PG) Marton VH 01743 792790

13 Dec MILITARY WIVES (12A) Clungunford VH 01588 660159

13 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Knighton Community Centre 07964 023841

13 Dec BACK TO BLACK (15) Great Witley VH 01299 896412

13 Dec LEAVE NO TRACE (PG) Bosbury Parish Hall 01531 640333

13 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

13 Dec THELMA (12A) Clun Memorial Hall 01588 640109

14 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273

14 Dec THE POLAR EXPRESS (U) Bayston Hill Memorial Hall 01743 872096

14 Dec WONKA (PG) Cawley Hall, Eye 07771 798712

14 Dec IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (U) Waverton VH 01244 336055

14 Dec LAST CHRISTMAS (12) Marchamley Community Club 07870 468645

17 Dec BENEDICTION (12) Acton Scott VH 07485 655898

17 Dec LAST CHRISTMAS (12) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 638038

18 Dec THELMA (12A) Myddle VH 07706 450075

Anora

18 Dec THE BEST EXOTIC

MARIGOLD HOTEL (12) Burley Gate VH 07852 202353

19 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Norbury VH 07929 366745

19 Dec ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME MARGARET (PG) Almeley VH 07913 992911

20 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15) Colwall VH 07891 668124

20 Dec GHOSTBUSTERS - FROZEN EMPIRE (12A) Conquest Theatre, Bromyard 01885 488575

20 Dec HOME ALONE 2 - LOST IN NEW YORK (PG) Aldford VH 07896 486894

21 Dec BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Lindridge Parish Hall 01584 881615

21 Dec WONKA (PG) Ombersley Memorial VH 01905 620350

21 Dec THE SOUND OF MUSIC (U) Cleobury Mortimer Parish Hall 01299 270047

23 Dec STICKMAN (U) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 638038

28 Dec WONKA (PG) Castlemorton Parish Hall 01531 631503

2 Jan WONKA (PG) Brilley VH 01544 327227

2 Jan DESPICABLE ME 4 (U) Mayfair Community Centre, Church Stretton 01694 722077

4 Jan SWIMMING WITH MEN (12A) Ballingham Old School Hall 07967 017759

4 Jan DESPICABLE ME 4 (U) Diddlebury VH 07396 730342

6 Jan WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Welshpool Assembly Room 01938 552043

6 Jan DREAM HORSE (PG) Claverley VH 07967 540531

6 Jan PERFECT DAYS (PG) Coalbrookdale & Ironbridge Community Centre 01952 433297

8 Jan NEXT GOAL WINS (12) Hope Bowdler VH 01694 721376

8 Jan THE QUIET GIRL (12A) The Phoenix Theatre, Ross on Wye 07789 778048

8 Jan THE CRITIC (U) Cardington VH 01694 771295

9 Jan THE BUCKET LIST (12) LIndridge Parish Hall 01584 881615

11 Jan THE GARFIELD MOVIE (U) Bayston Hill Memorial Hall 01743 872096

11 Jan THELMA (12A) Cawley Hall, Eye 07771 798712

11 Jan KEEPING MUM (15) Ombersley Memorial VH 01905 620350

14 Jan WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Garway Hall 01600 750465

15 Jan PORTRAITS OF DANGEROUS WOMEN (15)

Diddlebury VH 07396 730342

15 Jan FREUDS LAST SESSION (12)

Myddle VH 07706 450075

15 Jan THE LADY IN THE VAN (12) Burley Gate VH 07852 202353

16 Jan ALI AND AVA (15) Huntington VH 01544 370692

16 Jan PERFECT DAYS (PG) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 638038

17 Jan EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE Bedstone & Hopton Castle VH 01547 530282

17 Jan DRIVING MADELEINE (15) Marton VH 01743 792790

18 Jan BACK TO BLACK (15) Lindridge Parish Hall 01584 881615

18 Jan THE FALL GUY (12) Upton upon Severn Memorial Hall 01684 592273

18 Jan SWEDE CAROLINE (15) Waverton VH 01244 336055

18 Jan GREEN BOOK (12A) LIttle Witley VH 01886 888122

18 Jan THE ITALIAN JOB (1969) (PG) Aston on Clun VH 01588 660139

18 Jan KEEPING MUM (15) Trefonen VH 01691 657011

18 Jan THE DUKE (12A) Ripple Parish Hall 01684 591236

18 Jan THE LAST BUS (12) Cleobury Mortimer Parish Hall 01299 270047

21 Jan BRIGHT STAR (PG) SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle 01588 638038

23 Jan SWEDE CAROLINE (15) Much Birch Community Centre 01981 540097

23 Jan THE MIRACLE CLUB (12A) Grimley Peach Hall 01905 641572

24 Jan THE FABLEMANS (12A) Clungunford VH 01588 660159

24 Jan BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Colwall VH 07891 668124

25 Jan WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15) Rodington VH 01952 771147

28 Jan HIDDEN FIGURES (PG) Loppington VH 07932 737967

30 Jan BOB MARLEY - ONE LOVE (12) Almeley VH 07913 992911

31 Jan A HAUNTING IN VENICE (12A) Himbleton VH 01905 391143

THE HAFREN, NEWTOWN

18 Dec THE BISHOP’S WIFE (1947) (PG)

29 Jan THELMA (12A) The Hafren, Newtown, 01686 948100

LYDE COURT, HEREFORD

7 Dec POLAR EXPRESS

Mulled wine and hot chocolate, 10am-4pm free event. Christmas cafe. 12 Jan THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Homemade sweets, 10am-4pm, free event. Cafe. Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

11 Dec THE ROAD DANCE (15)

13 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15)

Market Theatre, Ledbury 07967 517125

MONTGOMERY MOVIE CLUB

5 Dec THE ZONE OF INTEREST (15)

19 Dec BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (12A)

9 Jan THE CRITIC (15)

23 Jan FLY ME TO THE MOON (PG)

Please check - Town Hall or Dragon Hotel, Montgomery, 7.30pm or 8pm, 01686 668442

OLD MARKET HALL, SHREWS.

1 - 5 Dec GLADIATOR II (15)

6 - 31 Dec WICKED (ctbc)

13 - 23 Dec CONCLAVE (12A)

13 - 24 Dec A CHRISTMAS CAROL (U)

20 - 31 Dec MOANA 2 (ctbc)

Old Market Hall, Shrewsbury, 01743 281281

PHOENIX THEATRE, R-O-W

4 Dec WOMAN AT WAR (12A)

14 Dec GREEN BOOK (12A)

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

PRESTEIGNE SCREEN

13 Dec WILDING (PG) www.presteignescreen.org.uk

Assembly Rooms, Presteigne.

REGAL, TENBURY WELLS

4, 6 & 11 Jan WICKED (PG)

4 Jan GLADIATOR II (15)

5, 6 & 9 Jan MOANA (PG)

5 Jan PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG)

25 Jan CONCLAVE(12A) Regal, Teme St, Tenbury Wells, 01584 811442

SAVOY, MONMOUTH

20 - 26 Dec MOANA 2 (PG)

20 - 26 Dec WICKED (PG)

21 Dec POLAR EXPRESS Pyjama party

Savoy Theatre, Church St, Monmouth 01600 772467

SHREWSBURY FILM SOCIETY

13 Dec THE HOLDOVERS (15)

3 Jan NO BEARS (12)

17 Jan GODLAND (12)

31 Jan DRAGON’S RETURN (12) The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 01743 234970

SPARC, BISHOP’S CASTLE

17 Dec LAST CHRISTMAS (12A)

‘Winter Warmer’, free hot drink & snack.

23 Dec STICKMAN Watch the classic Julia Donaldson animation followed by making your own Christmassy Stick People.

21 Jan BRIGHT STAR (PG) ‘Winter Warmer’, free hot drink and snack.

16 Jan PERFECT DAYS (PG)

SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 01588 638038

WYESIDE, BUILTH WELLS

Until 12 Dec GLADIATOR II (15)

1 Dec - 2 Jan PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG)

1 Dec - 12 Jan WICKED (PG)

8 Dec ALI AND AVA (15) Film Club

13 - 19 Dec CONCLAVE (12A)

27 Dec - 5 Jan MOANA (PG)

10 - 23 Jan WE LIVE IN TIME (ctbc)

12 Jan LEAN ON PETE (15) Film Club Wyeside, Builth Wells 01982 552555 LIVE EVENTS ON SCREEN

1 Dec VAN GOGH: POETS & LOVERS

Exhibition on Screen. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 2pm, 01600 772467.

1 Dec KISS ME KATE: THE MUSICAL

From the Barbican Theatre. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 1pm, 01743 281281.

2 Dec GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

A Broadway musical featuring Bob Dylan songs. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4pm & 7.30pm, 01600 772467.

3 & 4 Dec PRIMA FACIE

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

4 Dec KISS ME KATE: THE MUSICAL

From the Barbican Theatre. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555.

5 Dec GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

A Broadway musical featuring Bob Dylan songs. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock 7pm, 01952 728911. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281.

7 Dec KISS ME, KATE: THE MUSICAL

From the Barbican Theatre. The Hafren, Newtown, 7pm, 01686 948100.

7 Dec ANDRE RIEU: GOLD & SILVER Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 2pm, 01743 281281.

8 Dec ANDRE RIEU: GOLD & SILVER Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7pm, 01743 281281.

10 Dec CINDERELLA

Royal Ballet and Opera. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.15pm, 01600 719401. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.15pm, 01432 340555. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.15pm,

07967 517125. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.15pm, 01874 611622.

Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.15pm, 01885 488575. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.15pm, 01743 281281.

10 Dec GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY

Broadway musical. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 01982 552555.

11 Dec ANDRE RIEU: GOLD & SILVER

The Courtyard, 7pm, 01432 340555.

15 Dec CINDERELLA

The Royal Ballet. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, 01588 638038. The Hafren, Newtown, 2pm, 01686 948100. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555.

17 Dec THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet & Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.15pm, 01432 340555.

18 Dec ANDRE RIEU: GOLD & SILVER

The Courtyard, Hereford, 2.30pm, 01432 340555.

19 Dec THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet and Opera. The Hafren, Newtown, 6.30pm, 01686 948100.

19 Dec MISS SAIGON

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

21 Dec THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet and Opera. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 2pm, 01600 719401. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.15pm, 07967 517125.

2 Jan THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet and Opera. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.15pm, 01885 488575.

5 Jan THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet and Opera. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555.

5 Jan ANDRE RIEU: GOLD & SILVER

Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 4pm, 01600 772467.

6 Jan WOLF WITCH GIANT FAIRY

Little Bulb Theatre, satellite screening. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, 01588 638038.

10 Jan THE NUTCRACKER

Royal Ballet and Opera. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.15pm, 01584 878141.

15 Jan TALES OF HOFFMAN

Royal Ballet and Opera. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 6.45pm, 01584 878141. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 6.45pm, 01885 488575. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.45pm, 01432 340555.

17 Jan VAN GOGH POETS AND LOVERS

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

19 Jan TALES OF HOFFMAN

Royal Ballet and Opera. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 2pm, 01588 638038. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555.

25 Jan AIDA

Metropolitan Opera. The Courtyard, Hereford, 5.30pm, 01432 340555.

1 Feb AIDA

Metropolitan Opera. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 5.30pm, 01885 488575.

2 Feb LES MISERABLES

Stage concert. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 2pm, 01982 552555.

4 Feb LES MISERABLES

Stage concert. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7pm, 01982 552555. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7pm, 01885 488575.

WORKSHOPS

BORDERLINES FILM FESTIVAL IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

Do you love cinema? Love going to the movies? Then volunteering with the Borderlines Film Festival might be just what you are looking for. Borderlines is Britain’s largest rural film festival and takes place this year between 28th February – 15th March at venues across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Malvern and the Marches. The festival brings the best of world cinema to audiences in venues large and small, from art deco picture palaces to village halls. Borderlines is seeking volunteers to help at the Festival Desks at The Courtyard in Hereford and Ludlow Assembly Rooms. Volunteers are the friendly face of the Festivalwelcoming audiences, running the voting system and helping with audience surveys. In return we can offer free tickets to selected films. If you’re interested then contact: steve. freer@borderlinesfilmfestival.co.uk

January, February, March

ABERYSTWYTH ONLINE COURSES

28 Jan - Digital Voices, £70. 3 Feb - Advanced Social Media Marketing: Linkedin, £70. 10 Feb - Introduction to Film Studies, £130. 3 March - Basic Camera Skills, £70. Aberystwyth University online courses. Details 01970 621580, www.aber.ac.uk/learning

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.

dance

Dance Performance

Tues 17 December, Sat 11, Sat 18 January

FOXWHELP MORRIS

17 Dec - Solstice Dark Morris, 7.30pm. 11 Jan - Longtown Wassail, 6pm. 18 Jan - Monkland Wassail, 6pm. 01568 720510.

Fri 20 - Sun 22 December THE NUTCRACKER BRECON FESTIVAL BALLET’S enchanting production of this most famous Christmas ballet. The perfect festive treat for all the family, with Tchaikovsky’s famous music played live by the Brecon Festival Festival Ballet Orchestra. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, & 2.30pm on Sat & Sun, £26.50, family of four, £80, 01874 611622.

Thurs 16 January FISHBOY

2FACED DANCE COMANY. Three male performers set the stage to tell the story of a lonely little boy and his new friend, FISH. With children from local primary schools across Herefordshire who had creative input into the content and brought to life ideas on recyclable materials, character animation, movement and set design. The Courtyard, Hereford, 1.30pm & 4.30pm, 01432 340555.

Dance Workshops

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

Sat 15 February

CLOG STEPPING WORKSHOP

With Sarah Davenport (Gateway to Tradition). Kingsland Coronation Hall, HR6 9SQ. £35 to include light lunch, cake and refreshments. Clogs optional, hard-soled shoes necessary. Over 18s only. Pinsley Mill Morris. For more information or to book, email PinsleyMillMorris@gmail.com

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!

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.

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 £6 no-obligation taster, then £24 per 4-week block.For full information visit http://alanyadance.uk or call Abbie on 07962 161081, alanyadancer@gmail.com

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.

The Nutcracker

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, 5pm6pm. 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

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

CLOG STEPPING WORKSHOP

With Sarah Davenport (Gateway to Tradition)

15th FEBRUARY, 10am-4.30pm

KINGSLAND CORONATION HALL HR6 9SQ

£35. To include light lunch, cake and refreshments. Clogs optional, hard-soled shoes necessary. Over 18s only. For info and to book email PinsleyMillMorris@gmail.com

The Rhydspence Inn, Whitney-on-Wye

MR PERNICKETY has always admired The Rhydspence. Set back from the Hereford-Brecon highway on the north bank of the Wye and the border between England and Wales, it is an original and historic former drovers’ inn, so picturesque it would have made John Constable drool as he licked his brush and reached for his paint-box. After Mr P ﬁrst encountered the pub in the late 1980s, he would often drop in for a drink. Sadly, though, under the management then, it served none of the great ales of the region, and the kitchen had sunk to a dependence on a ready-meal wholesaler and a microwave oven with an unreliable operative. Mr P reviewed the place in his Guide to Eating Hay (2010), in which he describes how he was served a soufﬂé which was still icily hard at its centre.

About forty years ago a not especially attractive, right-angled extension was added. It has mellowed somewhat since, now partially clad in creeper, and is a little less of an eyesore. The old inn, 13th to 16th century, depending on whom you believe, is as fine a piece of medieval timber framed edifice as one could hope to find.

Mr P was distressed when about ten years ago the inn was sadly turned into a B&B. Thankfully, last year it was taken on by two optimistic young men. Mr Pernickety chose to give them time to settle in before reviewing it for the Woolly Organ.

When he and the LC eventually arrived, they were enthusiastically welcomed into the main bar where a large open log fire lit the space. The interior of the old inn is as fine an example of an authentic timber framed edifice as one could hope to find, only let down by a carpet of exuberant floral pattern – a relic of the bad old days. Mr P was delighted to see that the bar still caters for those who wish to drink ale, and hasn’t been hi-jacked by the restaurant trade. He and his LC sat at a small round table in a raised section of the bar which might have been accommodating cattle-drovers, highwaymen, horse-dealers and other mendacious travellers for over 500 years.

Mr P sank back into an old elm chair with relief and happy anticipation. It was clear that this as an inn which was now delivering what it should.

His optimism was emboldened by a ﬁrst glance at a menu which suggested creative and original ideas using the best kind of English (and Welsh) ingredients.

The LC, a little jaded after a long day, visibly brightened, her khaki eyes lit up at descriptions of dishes she especially relishes; they seemed exactly to match the look and timbre of the place, when many restaurateurs don’t appreciate this connection and often get it badly wrong. Mr P’s mouth is watering now as he re-reads the bill of fare and recalls the food it describes. This changes regularly, he was told, and he recommends a look at current offerings on The Rhydspence’s clear website.

To kick off, the LC chose Blue Cheese Croquettes with Pickled Pear, Trufﬂ e Oil and Onion Marmalade. She enjoyed the piquancy of the penicillium roqueforti (which gives a cheese the blues), while appreciating the croquettes’ lightness, with the accoutrements adding to the excitement.

Mr P ate Chicken Liver Paté with Cornichons. Quince Jelly and really good sourdough toast. The paté had none of the cloyingness from which this dish can suffer. It was light and subtle and enhanced by its extras.

To drink LC had a Pinot Grigio and Mr P a strong blackcurranty Puglian Primitivo-favourite grape. They also have a tempting list of auction-bought ﬁne wines. A jug of water arrived and was replenished without prompting.

The menu offered an intriguing Salt Baked Celeriac vegetarian dish and a ﬁsh dish, with four meat options. A cheaper dish for a one-course dinner could be Steak Haché & frites at £14.50. Although Mr P is a little wary of small game bird bones, he chose a whole partrudge’ with pickled celeriac, roast carrots, quince jelly and red wine jus. The jus was a sumptuous creation, strong, without overwhelming the partridge’s distinctiveness gaminess, while the well-chosen accoutrements heightened Mr P’s great enjoyment.

The LC ate a Rump of autumn lamb which may have been feasting on whinberry clad hills all summer. Served imaginatively with Salsa Verde, Grilled Courgettes and Burnt Lemon, she found the meat just the right pinkness.

As a ﬁnale, Mr P had an Apple Strudel with Creme Anglaise – a little tart full of spicy ﬂavours. He had spoonful of the LC’s tump of delicious soft creamy Rice Pudding with Stewed Apricots, Prunes, Date and Sultanas, after which they sat back feeling very happy with their dinner, and cheered by a sensible bill of £85. As the bars emptied, the sound of quiet music became audible above a dwindling hubbub. This detail showed once more how the young operators have thoroughly thought through every aspect of their project. It had taken Mr P an hour to drive there, but he looks forward to doing it again soon, now that The Rhydspence is at last as special as it ought to be.

Mr Pernickety

EVENTS

Tues 3 - Fri 20 December CLASSIC CHRISTMAS LUNCH 1pm, Two courses for £19.95.The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Fri 6 - Sat 21 December ALL-OUT CHRISTMAS

3-course Christmas dinner with a glass of mulled wine, crackers, mistletoe and crimbo music! The Courtyard, Hereford, 2-course £30, 3-course £35, 01432 340555. Sat 7 December KINGTON FESTIVE FOOD/DRINK FESTIVAL

100 Artisan producers and much more, good street food, music with Harmony Road, Streetsax and local choirs. Free entry, free parking and free mini bus. Plus food popups, crafts for children (1-3pm), Christmas best dressed dog and Whitton Voices, 12.30 & 2pm) at The Oxford Arms. Kington, 9.30am-3.30pm, 07810 443286, kingtonfoodfest@gmail.com

Sat 7 December SLOW FOOD CHRISTMAS FIESTA

A seasonal Slow Food bash of good food and more in the most stunning setting of the Dye House at the Flaxmill in Shrewsbury. There will be food and artisan makers stalls, free demos, tastings and talks, hot food and licenced bars. We warmly welcome the wonderful Kate Humble who will be with us all day, chatting with makers and producers, as well as Shane Holland from Slow Food UK who will compere tastings and demos. All free, have an experience to remember that kicks off your Christmas season with style and fun. Dye House, Flaxmill Building, Shrewsbury, 10am-7pm.

Sat 14 December CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS PARTY

Enjoy festive nibbles and tunes whilst being guided through the background and techniques behind some of our most famous cocktails. The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, 01432 357753, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Mon 16 December CHRISTMAS LAUNCH DAY Newton Court, HR6 0PF, 01568 611721.

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 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 01547 528315 Growers & providers of organic veg, fruit & flowers. Eco cleaning products & refills. Large range of groceries & wholefoods. The Old Garage Shop Knighton LD7 1EN. Wed. - Fri. 9 - 4, Sat. 10 - 2. Free parking. 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.

DECEMBER

Sun 1 December

ALBERT’S SUNDAY SESSION

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 6pm.

JASON ALLAN

‘United for the Arts: Fight the Fine’. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

LIVE JAZZ SESSION

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

SCHUBERT’S ‘DIE SCHONE MULLERIN’

Lion Ballroom, Leominster, 3pm, free event, with donations to Midland Air Ambulance.

ADVENT CAROL SERVICE

Hereford Cathedral, 3.30pm.

AARDVARK CHRISTMAS FAIR

20+ stalls, live music from Blue Moon playing 11.30am-1.30pm, free mulled wine, free entry. Aardvark Books & Cafe, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, 10am-3pm, 01547 530744.

WHISKEY RIVER (DUO)

Aidan and Martin. ‘Honky Tonk Central’. The Bell Inn, Redbrook, near Monmouth, 4pm, free.

ADVENT CAROL SERVICE

By candlelight. Leominster Priory, 6pm.

HAY WINTER FESTIVAL

The Decis, an a capella women’s group from Hay, 11.05am-11.25am. Christmas Brass, a drop-in performance by Lyndon Eatough-Smith and Ben Newton Fryers, 12.35pm-12.55pm. Hay Community Choir, 2.05pm-2.25pm. Hay Castle Grounds, free. www.hayfestival.com

GROOVY HEAD

The Richmond Club, Edgar St, 3.15pm, 01432 356529.

Mon 2 December

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

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

AOIFE NI HUIGINN

Irish singer-songwriter based in Ludlow. Fingerpicking guitar and singing a mixture of original and folk songs. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £10. Dinner at Bill’s Kitchen is £15 for two course, from 5.30pm, 01584 878141.

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford. Tues 3 December

CLIMATE CHOIR

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 821762.

MADDY PRIOR & THE CARNIVAL BAND

The Farewell Tour. They mix ancient and modern instruments and rich vocal harmony, putting their inimitable stamp on a range of familiar and not so familiar festive fare. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01873 850805.

Aoife Ni Huiginn

Wed 4 December

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

ALBERT’S SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

Thurs 5 December

EX CATHEDRA CONSORT

Christmas music by candlelight. Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm, £39-£15, up to 17 years and students £5, 18-30 year olds £15, www.herefordcathedral. org

HEREFORD SOUL CHOIR

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01497 821762.

THE PHOENIX THEATRE SINGERS

Christmas concert. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570.

MADAM + DRAVE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

WE THREE KINGS: A ROCK ‘N’ ROLL CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

Featuring Darren Page as Roy Orbison, Marc Robinson as Buddy Holly and Steve Halliday as Elvis Presley. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £20, 01600 772467.

THE ACOUSTIC ROOTS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

Fri 6 December

GREY WOLF

Old Time American from the Welsh Marches. Banjo, fiddle, guitar and double bass alongside fine vocal and harmony singing. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, £15/£5/£50, 01588 638038.

THE BREAKS

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

THE ALLTONES

Christmas gig and The Beefy Boys Pop-Up. Ludlow Brewery, 7.30pm, £10, 01584 873291.

MONOLITH

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm, 01497 821762.

CELTIC SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 8pm, 01568 720510.

THE PHOENIX THEATRE SINGERS

Christmas concert. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570.

DELTA SOUL

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING

Festive cheer with carols singers, charity mistletoe sale, brass band, street food, mulled wine, Morris dancers, roasted chestnuts, music and more! Ledbury High Street until 8pm.

BROAD BAND

An evening of music, song and dance. Big band swing, funk, R & B and jazz.

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £12, 01952 728911.

MIDNIGHT MAYHEM

The Black Swan, Leominster.

PARTY NIGHT

With festive feast and DJ. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7.45pm, £32, 01989 763174.

MASSAOKE CHRISTMAS

SINGALONG

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

BEANS ON TOAST

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm.

SACRED FUNK 4TET

Playing ancient, spiritual music that has journeyed from West Africa to the rest of the world. Linton Village Hall, 7.30pm, £15/£7/£37, LVH@lintonvillage.com Arts Alive.

KEITH JAMES - THE SONGS OF NICK DRAKE

‘Word Paintings’. Celebrating 50 years as a musician. An evening with songs, not only from his last five albums, but also from his many concert tours. Songs by Nick Drake, Sandy Denny, Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and Cat Stevens. Melville Centre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £15, 01873 853167.

Sat 7 December

MAKE MUCH WENLOCK WEIRD

Presents AJA with support from Ecolagbohrsac2021 & Infernal Machines. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 728911.

BLACK HEART ANGELS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

RETURN OF THE SPOUSE

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

BORDER BELLES AT CHRISTMAS Choir. St Mary’s Church, Ross on Wye, 7pm, £10 from choir members or on the door.

FESTIVE CAFE AND LIVE MUSIC

Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-4pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

KEITH JAMES

The haunting and immaculately crafted concert. ‘The Songs of Nick Drake’. Sound and Art at St Swithun’s, High St, Worcester, 8pm, www.worcesterstswithuns.org

AUDIO GENIKA

The Victory, St Owen St, Hereford. SACRED FUNK 4TET

Playing ancient, spiritual music that has journeyed from West Africa to the rest of the world. The Simpson Hall, Burghill, 7.30pm, £12/£6, www.simpsonhall.uk Arts Alive.

SHREWSBURY CHORAL

‘The Spirit of Christmas’. Shrewsbury Abbey, 7.30pm, shrewsburychoral.org. uk/buytickets, or from Pengwern Books, Fish Street, Shrewsbury 01743 232236; from choir members or on the door on the night.

THE PHOENIX THEATRE SINGERS

Christmas concert. Phoenix Theatre, Ross-on-Wye, 7.30pm, 01989 564570.

THE WORN OUT SHOES

Christmas folk with London based folk band. Cool Christmas tunes and vocals from guitarist Ben Filmer Sankey and friends. All Saints Church, Hereford, 2pm, free with retiring collection, 075865 20171.

Sat 7 December

TWO PUSH CHARLIE

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE JOHN CUBBIN BAND

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.45pm, 01952 610888.

KINGTON FESTIVE FOOD/DRINK FESTIVAL

100 Artisan producers and much more, good street food, music with Harmony Road, Streetsax and local choirs. Free entry, free parking and free mini bus. Kington, 9.30am-3.30pm, 07810 443286, kingtonfoodfest@gmail.com

CLAUDE BOURBON

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

GARWAY LIVE

Christmas Party with “The Soul Strutters” come and dance the night away. Garway Village Hall, 7.30pm £12 plus bar and food. 01981 580215 and tickets are available from www. ticketsource.co.uk/garwaylive

ROVING CROWS

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

CHRISTMAS WITH ELVIS Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, £19, 01873 850805.

HEREFORD CHORAL SOCIETY

Handel’s ‘Messiah’ by candlelight. Hereford Cathedral, 7.30pm, £10, 01432 751175, www.herefordchoralsociety.org

HAY MADRIGALS AND THE COME BACK QUIRE

Christmassy music old and new by Rutter, Gardner, Willcocks etc. St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye, 3.30pm, followed by cakes, tea/coffee/wine, £10 on the door, info@haymadrigals.org

CHRISTIAN GARRICK & THE BUDAPEST CAFE ORCHESTRA

Gypsy and folk-flavoured music in their unique and surprising way. From Balkan and Russian traditional music to their own artful distillations of romantic masterworks by Gaelic folk anthems. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 3pm & 7pm, £20, students £12, 07967 517125.

WHISKEY RIVER

Duo. Treebeard’s Bar, Unit 2, 54 High St, Crickhowell, 8.30pm, free.

THE SOUL STRUTTERS

Come and dance the night away. Garway Village Hall, 8pm, £12, bar and food available, 01981 580215, garwaylive@gmail.com

CORY BAND AT CHRISTMAS

With Charlie Green. One of the world’s leading brass bands. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7pm, 01600 719401.

Sun 8 December

THE MARK DAVIES BAND

The Richmond Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3.15pm, 01432 356529.

ALBERT’S SUNDAY SESSION

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 6pm.

CHARLIE DORE

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

JANICE BURNS & JOHN DORAN

Award-winnind Anglo-Scottish duo. Their songs tell vivid stories about the nature of life and our place in the world. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 8pm, £15, www.ticketsource.co.uk/BCTH or 01588 630023.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. Swan Inn, Aston Munslow, 5pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@hotmail. com

FESTIVE CAFE AND LIVE MUSIC

Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-4pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

ANGELINA X

Ledbury’s got talent winner solo. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm.

MID WALES R & B CLUB

Christmas gathering with music from Nookee, special guest act to be confirmed. The Muse, Brecon, 7.30pm, £20, www.midwalesrandb.club

Tues 10 December

WEREWOLVES OF POWYS

Christmas party. The Bridges, Ratlinghope, SY5 0ST. Drinks from 6pm, music from 8pm.

MUSIC QUIZ

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

BRECON JAZZ CLUB

Featuring Terrence Collie, piano; Paula Gardiner, bass Trio and friends/guests. The Muse, Brecon, 8pm, £14 in advance, www.breconjazz.org

Wed 11 December

ALBERT’S SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8.30pm.

MARCHES CHOIR

Big Christmas Sing! A festive evening of Christmas music and carols with audience participation. St John’s Church, Bishop’s Castle, 7pm, £8, children and students free, 07806 433394, online www.ticketsource.co.uk or on the door.

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

ABF THE SOLDIER’S CHARITY

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

With school choirs and bands. Hereford Cathedral, 7pm, tickets available via The Courtyard box office, 01432 340555.

Thurs 12 December

LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU

Robbie Williams tribute. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

ANNA AND THE TONICS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

JAM ON TOAST

Open jam night. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

INCHANT

A chamber choir from London. Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 7.30pm, 01531 660504, www.hellensmanor.com

Fri 13 December

TALON

The best of The Eagles. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

SONIC BOOM BAND

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

PISKEY LED

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

THE GARRICK SINGERS

A concert of traditional and contemporary music for the Christmas season. All Saints Church, Hereford, 11am, free, but retiring collection.

OPEN MIC

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

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm, 01497 821762.

PARTY NIGHT

With festive feast and DJ. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7.45pm, £32, 01989 763174.

WHISKEY RIVER

Trio. Pontardawe Folk Club Christmas Party. Heritage and Visitors Centre, The Old Stables, Herbert St, Pontardawe, 8pm.

THE FORFEITS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

ROY CHUBBY BROWN

Still going strong after 50 years in entertainment and comedy. Plus support. Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells, 7.30pm, 01597 258118, www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Sat 14 December

JIVE TALKIN’

Perform the Bee Gees. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 719401.

ROSS CHORAL SOCIETY

Perform Handel’s Messiah. St Mary’s Church, Ross on Wye, 7pm, £15, students £5 from River Music, Ross, online or at the door.

OUTPOST DRIVE

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

HEREFORD CONCERT BAND

All Saints Church, Hereford, 11am, free, but retiring collection.

LEDBURY COMMUNITY BAND

Christmas concert. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 3pm, £10, students £4, 07967 517125.

THE JOOKS

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.45pm, 01952 610888.

LITTLE HEREFORD VOICES

Christmas concert, singing The Manchester Carols, a retelling of the Christmas story by Carol Ann Duffy and Sasha Johnson Manning. Little Hereford Village Hall, 7.30pm, £10 on the door.

THE INSTITUTIONS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE GIN BOWLERS

The Assembly Rooms dance floor will be out for a pre-Christmas knees up with the rowdy swing sound of The Gin Bowlers. Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £15, under 25s £10 available at The Workhouse Gallery, Presteigne or online, www.midborderarts.com

MIDNIGHT MAYHEM

The Kings Arms, Church Stretton.

JAKE OF DIAMONDS

Acoustic floor fillers. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

THE VERTIGO BAND

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

CHRISTMAS GALA NIGHT

Shared Christmas party with live band XL5, DJ and festive 3-course meal. £74.50, Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt. com

SHANNON MAY

Acoustic singer-songwriter. Hereford Beer House, West St, Hereford, 7.30pm, free entry, but donation of £5 towards Shannon’s fee.

THE EMO FEST

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

HAY MUSIC

A Grand Christmas concert with

The Choir of King’s College London. Programme includes Tavener, Rachmaninoff, Poulenc, Beamish, Aleotti, MacMillan, Cornelius and more. St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, www.haymusic.org

MIDWINTER FESTIVAL

Choirs and music with stalls under the canopy in The Rock Park, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 6AE, 12pm-4pm.

JOIN THE DOTS CEILIDH BAND

An evening of lively music and easyto-follow dances. No need to bring a partner. Yarpole Village Hall, 6.30pm, £7.50 on the door. Food, dancing, fun, quiz and games, 07731 194797.

MUSIC IN NEW RADNOR

The Oneira Trio. Isabelle Harris, flute; Elliot Kempton, viola and Emily Harris, harp. Works by Amy Beach, Libby Larsen, Nadia Boulanger, Arnold Bax and others. New Radnor Community Hall, New Radnor, near Presteigne, 7.30pm, £15, under 14s £3, 01544 350746.

ROVING CROWS

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

SATURDAY CAFE

Relax with a cuppa and live music for free from 11am. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

TOO TONED

The Foundry, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 618774.

REMEMBER LLYWELYN

Commemorating the last Welsh Prince of Wales. Meet in Cilmeri before 11am to go to Llanynys Church for a Memorial service in Welsh, English and Latin plein song. Lunch at Cilmeri, then speeches and wreath laying at the monument. Further details go to Cofio Llywelyn FB page or 01597 823547.

WHISKEY RIVER

Duo. Redcatch Folk Club Christmas party. Redcatch Community Centre, Knowle, Bristol, 8pm.

CLUN VALLEY JAZZ

Featuring Mick Hutton’s Quartet. Double bass, drums, tenor sax and piano. SpArC Theatre, Bishop’s Castle, www.clunvalleyjazz.com

LEOMINSTER VICTORIAN STREET MARKET

Handmade, locally produced gifts, food and drink with Victorian-themed entertainment. Live music with Keith The Piper. Free parking. Corn Square and Broad St, Leominster, 9am-3pm.

Sun 15 December

WHISKEY RIVER

Duo. The Grape Vaults, Broad St, Leominster, 3-6pm, free.

TUNE AND STEP SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 7.30pm, 01568 720510.

SUNDAY SESSIONS OPEN MIC

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

CHRISTMAS FUN QUIZ & CURRY NIGHT

£10 per person including curry. Teams of four. The Crown Inn, Dilwyn, HR4 8HL, 6.30pm, booking required, 01544 318063. Proceeds to The Friends of the Crown.

THE LEGENDS OF MOTOWN

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5pm, 07498 966606.

HAY SHANTYMEN

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 821762.

ALBERT’S SUNDAY SESSION

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 6pm.

OPEN MIC SUNDAY SESSION

Ludlow Brewery, The Railway Shed, Station Drive, Ludlow, 4.30pm, 01584 873291.

OPEN MIC

Hosted by Mark Richards. The Squirrel, Foldgate Lane, Ludlow, 6pm. Please pre-book your slot, markianrichards@ hotmail.com

LIVE JAZZ SESSION

The Jam Factory, Hereford, 7pm.

Sun 15 December

FESTIVE CAFE AND LIVE MUSIC

Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-4pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

THE MAGPIES

They’re a breath of fresh air peddling engaging, bright and breezy transatlantic folk. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 7.45pm, £14, 01743 234970.

Mon 16 December

TODDLER CAROL SERVICE

Nativity with storytelling, drama and Christmas songs. Hereford Cathedral, 9.45am-10.30am.

Tues 17 December

LEOMINSTER CHORAL SOCIETY

Carols by candlelight. Leominster Priory, 7pm, £8 on the door, under 18s free.

Wed 18 December

TELFORD ACOUSTIC SESSION

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.30pm, 01952 610888.

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

DRUM & BASS CHRISTMAS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 11pm.

AMERICANA SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 8pm, 01568 720510.

ST NICHOLAS CHURCH CHOIR

Unaccompanied traditional choral music for Christmas. All Saints Church, Hereford, 11am, free, but retiring collection.

THE CHRISTMAS RAT PACK SHOW

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

WHISKEY RIVER

Duo. Acoustic session over a 2-course dinner. Booking essential. Nori’s Cafe, West St, Leominster, 7.15pm, £26 includes meal, 01584 831386, noriscafe@yahoo.com

Thurs 19 December

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT

With The Forfeits. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 6.30pm, 01989 763174.

ROAR! LIVE

Monday Club + Gecco. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 9pm.

ROLLING STONES NIGHT

Dave Luke, Dave Kirk and Bugsy play all your favourites. Get there early!

The Duke’s Arms, Broad St, Presteigne, 8pm, £5 on the door.

THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

GORDON HENDRICKS

Elvis Christmas show, Buttermarket, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

ACOUSTIC FOLK SESSION

The Sun, Clun.

Fri 20 December

PARTY NIGHT

With festive feast and DJ. Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7.45pm, £32, 01989 763174.

SKABURST

Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

PHAT TONY

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

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm, 01497 821762.

CASSETTES IN THE SUN

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

OPEN MIC

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

SHOWADDYWADDY

50th Anniversary tour. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

NOWODE IN CONCERT

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 8pm, www.ticketsource.co.uk/BCTH or 01588 630023.

BLACK HEART ANGELS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE RONALDOS

Christmas special. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 8pm, 07498 966606.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

‘So This is Christmas’. An evening of music and laughter where hilarious comedy sketches blend with renditions of your favourite Christmas songs. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01686 948100.

Sat 21 December

BROMYARD SYMPHONIC WIND BAND

Informal concert with music for all the family. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 3pm, £8, free for 16 years and under, 01885 488575.

AUDIO THIEVES

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

THE DIAMONDS

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

CONNOR BEVAN

Local acoustic musician and singer, playing 4-string tenor guitar, mandolin and blues harp. Hereford Beer House, West St, Hereford, 7.30pm, free entry, but donation of £5 towards Connor’s fee.

TRICKSTER

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

CONSPIRO CLARINETS

A free concert of lively seasonal repertoire. All Saints Church, Hereford, 11am, free, but retiring collection.

LINKWELLS

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

ACOUSTIC GIN

Paul Harrison and John Silver. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 01952 610888.

MERCURY

Queen’s greatest hits. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

MIDWINTER CONCERT

With Whitton Voices led by Sue Harris. plus Benji and George Kirkpatrick and a surprise guest. St Michael’s Church, Discoed, near Presteigne, 5pm. £10, children free, booking essential, 01547 550158 or sumarieharris@btinternet. com Proceeds to the Refugee Council.

JACKIE OATS AND JOHN SPIERS CHRISTMAS SHOW

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, 01497 821762.

B.C. ALLSKAS IN CONCERT

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 8pm, £12, www.ticketsource.co.uk/BCTH or 01588 630023.

JACKIE OATES AND JOHN SPIERS ‘A Midwinter’s Night’. Multi awardwinning contemporary folk. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, £16 early bird, £18 standard, 01497 821762. www.theglobeathay.org

WHISKEY RIVER

Quartet. Tiny Rebel Brewery, Rogerstone, Newport, 9pm, free.

CANTORION

Christmas carol concert. Old Parish Church, Grosvernor Rd, Llandrindod Wells, 2pm, free, retiring collection in aid of Old Parish Church and Cantorion.

CHRISTMAS BASH

Featuring Northern Ruins. The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 8pm, 01874 618774.

LEE OWEN

Modern pop/rock classics. The Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, food 5.30pm-8.15pm, 01531 640954.

FESTIVE CAFE AND LIVE MUSIC

Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-4pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

Sat 21 December

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT

Featuring a sit-down 3-course meal followed by DJ and dancing. A complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 7pm, £37, pre-booking and £10 deposit p.p. required before 14 Dec, 01588 676060.

Sun 22 December

FESTIVE CAFE AND LIVE MUSIC

Lyde Court, Hereford, HR1 3AE, 11am-4pm, 01432 357753, www.lydecourt.com

COPICATS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

AMARETTO LOUNGE

Local band performing modern pop classics. The Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, food 5.30pm-7.15pm, 01531 640954.

YULETIDE CAROLS

All Saints Church, Monkland, near Leominster, 4pm.

MAX GALACTIC & BOO LA CROUX

Christmas Brunch. The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 3pm, 01497 821762.

ROB LAMBERTI

‘Perfectly George Michael’. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

WHISKEY RIVER

Full electric 5-piece. Christmas shindig. The Richmond Place Club, Edgar St, Hereford, 3.15pm, free.

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS & CAROLS

Hereford Cathedral, 7pm.

NINE LESSONS & CAROLS

By candlelight. Leominster Priory, 6pm.

Mon 23 December

DIRTY ROCKIN’ SCOUNDRELS

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

FESTIVAL OF LESSONS & CAROLS

Hereford Cathedral, 7pm.

Tues 24 December

CHRISTMAS EVE DJ SPECIAL Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

BREAKING GROUND

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

CHRISTINGLE NATIVITY SERVICE

Telling the Christmas story for children and families. Hereford Cathedral, 2pm, free with retiring collection for The Children’s Society.

Thurs 26 December

SUPERSONIC

Oasis tribute. Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

MONOLITH

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

MUMMERS PLAY

Featuring Leominster Morris. The New Inn, Pembridge, 12pm.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES

Morris dancing by The Shropshire Bedlams and Martha Rhoden’s Tuppeny Dish at 12pm. Castle carols, led by John Kirkpatrick at 1.45pm. Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, www.castlecarols.com

QUIZ

The Balance Inn, Luston, 8pm, £2, 01568 616801.

Fri 27 December

ETERNITY ROAD

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

OPEN MIC NIGHT OF THE YEAR

Hosted by Clare Bennett and Dan Jones of The Indigo Machine. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 8pm, 01952 610888.

ALLEY CATS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

ABBA REVIVAL LIVE

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

Sat 28 December

MOVIE MUSICALSTHE ENCHANTED GROUP

A dazzling celebration of the most iconic movie musicals featuring cult classics and modern favourites. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, £22, 01885 488575.

REVOLUTION

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 9pm.

ERASURED + PET SHOP BOYS, ACTUALLY

Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 5pm, 07498 966606.

THE BREAKFAST CLUB

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 8.30pm, 01874 618774.

THE SOUL STRUTTERS

The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, 01989 763174.

THE BEANIE BOYS

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

CALL OF THE KRAKEN

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

WILL KILLEEN

Acclaimed local guitarist, known for his slide guitar skills and unique blend of Celtic roots and American country and blues. Hereford Beer House, West St, Hereford, 7.30pm, free entry, but donation of £5 towards Will’s fee.

THE ENDINGS

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 01952 610888.

FESTIVE FAMILY RAVE

Full of bubbles, balloons and all your favourite Christmas tunes. Dance your way into the festive season!

The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am & 3pm, free pre-activity from 10.30am, 01432 340555.

Sun 29 December

THE DOLLY SHOW

Celebrating the life and music of Dolly Parton. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

PIPPA LANGHORNE

Shania Twain tribute night. The Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, food 6pm-7.30pm, 01531 640954.

GUTTERSNIPE

Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 5pm.

STEADY EDD AND THE LOST SOULS Jazz, boogie woogie and rock and roll. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm.

QUIZ NIGHT

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.30pm, £1 pp to enter, 01952 610888.

Tues 31 December

NEW YEAR’S EVE

With Junction 7. The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 7pm, £34 including finger buffet, 01989 763174.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Featuring RJ’s Smoke Shack, street food, 12-5pm. Ludlow Brewery, 01584 873291.

MIDNIGHT MAYHEM

The Mill, Vowchurch, tickets available from the venue.

HEAD HONCHO

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Featuring Fee Fee & The Sentiments. Albert’s Shed, Barker St, Shrewsbury, 8pm.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

DJs all night. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, £10.

NEW YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA

New Years Eve party and firework display. Early bird tickets available. The Left Bank, Bridge St, Hereford, 01432 357753, www.theleftbankvillage. co.uk

JANUARY

Fri 3 January

THE HUSTLE

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

CELTIC SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 8pm, 01568 720510.

Sat 4 January

THE ROAD KNIGHTS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

Sun 5 January

EPHIPHANY CAROL SERVICE

Leominster Priory, 6pm.

EPHIPHANY CAROL SERVICE

Sung by Hereford Cathedral Voluntary Choir. Hereford Cathedral, 3.30pm.

ROCKIN’ PNEUMONIA

Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm.

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA ORCHESTRA

A New Year’s Celebration. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 4pm, 01874 611622.

Mon 6 January

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

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

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

WASSAIL!

Leominster Morris invite you to partake in the magic and wonder of the Wassail followed by the ancient and mysterious Mummers Play. The Crown Inn, Dilwyn, 7pm, admission ticket only, www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-leominstermorris-wassail

MARTIN THOMAS & ROSIE GREEN

Bill’s Kitchen, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7pm, £10 for music, plus £15 for two courses, please book, 01584 878141.

Wed 8 January

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

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

Thurs 9 January

JAM ON TOAST

Open jam night, all musicians welcome. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

Fri 10 January

DOOKIE

Green Day night. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6.30pm, 07498 966606.

LIMEHOUSE LIZZY

The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm, 01497 821762.

THE BRIDGE

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

SAVAGE GROOVE

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

OPEN MIC

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

Sat 11 January

ALISON RAYNER QUINTET

Strong melodies, sinewy rhythms and luminous solos. The Hive, Belmont, Shrewsbury, 8pm, £23, under 22 £12, 01743 234970.

GLAM 45 LIVE

The ultimate Glam Rock show. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

FUNDLEWARP & THE LAMPSHADE CATCHERS

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

KICKBACK

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE GREATEST HITS OF MOTOWN

With How Sweet It Is playing songs from legendary artistes. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

LIVE MUSIC OR DJ

The Bridges, Ratlinghope, 01588 650260.

SUPERSONIC QUEEN!

Queen tribute band. The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, £20, under 16s £16, 0300 1024255, www.thealberthall.co.uk

WELSH NATIONAL ORCHESTRA

A New Year’s Celebration. Programme includes Strauss, Dvorak and Brahms. The Hafren, Newtown, 4pm, £22/£18, 01686 948100.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 7.30pm, 01885 488575.

MAKE MUCH WENLOCK WEIRD

Presents Haress and Hawthonn, their music is rooted in the feel and tradition of British folk but expands out of any genre boundaries through the use of improvisation, texture and amplification. The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, 7.30pm, £15, 01952 728911.

Sun 12 January

LITTLE RUMBA

With Jess Hall on vocals. A unique blend of styles from Eastern European, South American as well as jazz and blues. With support from The Afterknights. Conquest Theatre, 8pm, £10, 01885 488575.

HAY MUSIC

The Marsyas Trio with mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean. ‘Echoes of a Distant Land’. Music for flute, cello and piano by Maurice Ravel, Judith Weir, Camille Saint Saens, Mel Bonis and Michael Finnissy (world premier). Pre-concert discussion with Judith Weir and Michael Finnissy. St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye, 3.30pm, www.haymusic. org

Tues 14 January

MUSIC QUIZ

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

GERALD FLOTATS & TOM ZALMANOV

‘Silent Woods’. Programme includes Bach, Beethoven, Dvorak and Chopin. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Wed 15 January

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

AMERICANA SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 8pm, 01568 720510.

Fri 17 January

THESE SMITHS

Tribute to Morrissey and The Smiths. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

ETERNITY ROAD

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK

Direct from The West End, this live concert celebrates rock’s most influential icons, Rod Stewart. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

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, 01497 821762.

Sat 18 January

THE UPBEAT BEATLES

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

THE DAZZLING DIAMONDS

A brand-new comedy variety drag show. From jaw-dropping dance numbers to hilarious lip-sync performances and live vocals. For ages 14+. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

BREAKING GROUND

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

JOHNS’ BOYS WELSH MALE CHOIR

They bring a ground-breaking, modern twist to the traditional Welsh Male Voice Choir. The Hafren, Newtown, 7.30pm, £27, 01686 948100.

Sun 19 January

TUNE AND STEP SESSION

Monkland Arms, Monkland, near Leominster, 7.30pm, 01568 720510.

SUNDAY SESSIONS OPEN MIC

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

JAMIE AND THE WORRIED MEN

Guitar blues. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm.

Tues 21 January

SUPPER SERENADES

With two members from the Orchestra of the Swan. Dining and music. The Courtyard, Hereford, 6.30pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 22 January

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

PRETTY VACANT

The story of punk and new wave. A talented cast of musicians, singers and dancers that will take you on a rollercoaster ride. Featuring hits performed by The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Blondie, The Damned, Ramones, The Police, The Jam and many more. Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Pretty Vacant

Thurs 23 January

ACOUSTIC FOLK SESSION

The Sun, Clun.

JAM ON TOAST

Open jam night, all musicians welcome. The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

CATRIN FINCH & AOIFE NI BHRIAIN

Aoife Ni Bhriain is one of Ireland’s foremost traditional fiddle players and classical violinist. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Fri 24 January

WASHBOARD RESONATORS

Mixing early blues, jazz, ragtime and folk music. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 730pm, £12. Dinner at Bill’s Kitchen £15 for two-course meal, please book in advance, 01584 878141.

Y-ROCK

The Golden Cross, Sutton St Nicholas, Hereford.

MICHAEL STARRING BEN

Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Featuring live band, dazzling costumes and iconic dance routines. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

SONIC BOOM

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE MODERATORS

9-piece band dedicated to Ska/2 Tone. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 6pm, 07498 966606.

GENESIS CONNECTED

Celebrating the music of Genesis. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Sat 25 January

MARTYN JOSEPH

‘The Welsh Springsteen’. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £24.20, 01743 281281.

MICROBABY

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

THE ROZZERS

A tribute to Sting and The Police. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

SKITTLES ROLL UP

£5 per pair (one male, one female), winner takes the money. Free nibbles during the night. The Vaga, Hereford, 7.30pm.

BAG OF CATS

The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, 01874 618774.

Sun 26 January

MARC DAVIES BAND

The Richmond Club, Edgar St, 3.15pm, 01432 356529.

QUIZ NIGHT

The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.30pm, £1pp, 01952 610888.

RYAN EVANS

Heart ‘n’ Soul of Nashville. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

THE MALVERN DELTA BLUES BAND

The Oak Inn, Staplow, 6.30pm, food 6pm-7.15pm, 01531 640954.

PRETTY VACANT

Coronation Street star Kevin Kennedy narrates ‘The Story of Punk and New Wave’, featuring hits by The Sex Pistols, Blondie, Joy Division and more. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £30.25, 01743 281281.

CLARINO TRIO

Sounds of Mozart and Stadler. The Lion Ballroom, Leominster, 3pm, £20, students £10, 01568 616460 or 01432 340555.

Mon 27 January

THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW

Celebrating three decades of the world’s greatest classic rock music. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £60.50-£44, 01743 281281.

Wed 29 January

OPEN MIC

The Jam Factory, Widemarsh St, Hereford, 8pm.

PAUL JONES & DAVE KELLY

Lead Blues Band vocalists continue their Acoustics Duo concerts after the band’s retirement. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £33, 01743 281281.

Thurs 30 January

JIVE TALKIN’

Bee Gees tribute. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £27.50-£25.50, 01743 281281.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Hosted by Clare Bennett and Dan Jones of Indigo Machine. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 8pm, 01952 610888.

OH WHAT A NIGHT!A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH The incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

TANNAHILL WEAVERS

Traditional Celtic music at it’s best. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

QUIZ

The Balance Inn, Luston, 8pm, £2, 01568 616801.

Fri 31 January

OPEN MIC

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8.15pm, 01497 821762.

The Rozzers

THE BOOKSHOP BAND IN CONCERT

They write and perform songs inspired by books and have released 13 book-inspired albums collaborating with authors including Philip Pullman, Robert Macfarlane and Margaret Attwood. Welshampton Parish Hall, 7.30pm, £12/£6, 01948 710586. Arts Alive.

YOUNG ELTON

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

CROONERS

Hilarious one liners, laugh-out loud silliness and an injection of Big Band swing. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £29.50, 01743 281281.

CASCADING LIGHTS

Gordon Bennetts Bar, Hereford, 01432 360250.

COUNTRY SUPER STARS

‘Dolly Parton and Friends. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

WILL BARNES QUARTET

Presenting songs from their acclaimed album, which is an exploration of the rugged landscape of Mid Wales and the Marches. Joined by skilled landscape artist Erin Hughes. Celf o Gwmpas, Llandrindod Wells, www.willbarnesmusic. co.uk

KICKBACK

With Cartoon Violence + Choked as support. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 8pm, £8 in advance or £10 on the door, 01584 878141.

FEBRUARY

Sat 1 February

THE BOOKSHOP BAND IN CONCERT

They write and perform songs inspired by books and have released 13 book-inspired albums collaborating with authors including Philip Pullman, Robert Macfarlane and Margaret Attwood. Bridgnorth Library, 7pm, £15, 01746 763358. Arts Alive.

MARTIN KEMP

Back to the 80s DJ set. Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, 4pm, 07498 966606.

WILL BARNES QUARTET

Presenting songs from their acclaimed album, which is an exploration of the rugged landscape of Mid Wales and the Marches. Joined by skilled landscape artist Erin Hughes. Assembly Rooms, Presteigne.

FLATWORLD

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

THE ULTIMATE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW

The very best classic rock anthems from legends past and present. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 719401.

Sun 2 February

DAN GRAHAM

Acoustic singer/songwriter. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 4pm.

Mon 3 February

BRIMFIELD FOLK CLUB

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

CIDER CITY JAZZMEN

The Barrels, St Owen St, Hereford.

Wed 5 February

CELINE - MY HEART WILL GO ON!

Ultimate tribute concert to Celine Dion. The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, £26, 0300 102 4255, www.thealberthall. co.uk

Music Workshops

Sunday, weekly till Christmas/Boxing Day)

CASTLE CAROLS Led by John Kirkpatrick. The Three Tuns, Bishop’s Castle, 3-5pm, www.castlecarols.com

Sat 14 December FIDDLES IN HARMONY

Our monthly fiddle workshops offer a unique blend of sociable ensemble playing, together with expert guidance on style, technique and musicality from tutor Kitty Greenwood. We play traditional tunes with original harmony parts especially composed for folk fiddle players. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, SY7 9RS. Meet in the cafe at 10.15 am, workshop: 11am -12.45 pm. £20 per session. Including pdf sheet music. To book, email Kitty: folkfiddleteacher@gmail.com

Fri 24 - Sun 26 January WINTERFEST

A weekend of traditional tunes in the beautiful setting of Westhope College, SY7 9JL. Steady Speed Sessions led by Kitty and Garry. Delicious Duets, music workshops and impromptu singalongs. £110 pp. Includes tea, coffee & lunches. Details here: https://www.kittygreenwoodmusic. com/event

Sunday 26 January SHROPSHIRE HARMONY QUIRE

A monthly session for singers and instrumentalists exploring the lively music of the church gallery choirs that flourished from about 1750 to 1850. 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, 1.00 - 4.00pm. www.shropshireharmonyquire.org.uk

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

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

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

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

Sessions

band directory

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

Band Directory

ONLY £45 FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

Just post the details of your band (around 40 words) with a cheque for £45 payable to Broad Sheep

The Fred Bulmer Centre, Wall St, Hereford, HR4 9HP just call Clare on 07786 131159 or email: info@broadsheep.com

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 A covers band ready to kickstart any event. Performing female influenced rock and pop. So if you have a birthday, wedding or event get in touch to see how we can meet your requirements. Call or text Rob 07807 531251 or Liz 07807 531151. Email midnight4mayhem@gmail.com Or 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.

PRESS GANGERS A shanty band from Presteigne - this nine man crew of singers and musicians perform a mix of sea shanties and some Irish songs with rousing harmonies encouraging audience participation. Enquiries/bookings - text/call 07980 785105.

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

STRAY AWAY Stomping good ceilidhs for all occasions. S Powys area. Tel 01874 676155 or 623781, or email afarley463@gmail.com

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 5/6 piece electric Americana band that play swamp blues, Cajun, Zydeco and good country music to set the dance floor rocking. To suit smaller venues and smaller budgets, pruned down acoustic versions of the band are available as “The Whiskey River Quartet”, “The Whiskey River Trio” or as a Duo [“The Whiskey River Boys”]. Laissez les bon temps rouler!! Contact Martin, phone: 07846 669890, 01432 342018. Email: martin@whiskeyriver.co.uk. Website: www.whiskeyriver.co.uk

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

theatre

PERFORMANCE

Wed 4 & Fri 6 December

O LITTLE TOWN OF ABERYSTWYTH

LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE Children singing, police sirens ringing and a department store, Father Christmas lies dead in a pool of his own blood... 4 Dec - Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805. 6 Dec - Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 7.30pm, 01874 611622.

Thurs 5 - Sat 7 December

PRESTEIGNE GETS STUFFED

Presteigne’s panto! John Beddoes School, Presteigne, 7.30pm, £8 adults, £6 children, £22 family. Cash only, tickets from Salty Dog, Presteigne.

Fri 6 December

THE GHOST OF A SMILE

Two of Charles Dickens’ creepy tales but with a comic twist. A traveller encounters a ghostly chair, and in a deserted Edinburgh carriage works, a tipsy reveller is spirited away by - well spirits! Performed by Nicholas Collett and directed by Gavin Robertson. Market Theatre, Ledbury, 7.30pm, £15, students £9, 07967 517125.

Fri 6 - Sun 8 December TINK!

THE AH PLAYERS. A girl and her two younger brothers follow an ageless boy to a magical land of adventure! Sounds familiar? Oh no it doesn’t! There will be singing, dancing, audience participation and fun for all the family. The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 0300 102 4255, www.thealberthall.co.uk

Sat 7 December

WHERE THERE’S A WILL THERE’S A WAY DEATH ON DEMAND MURDER MYSTERIES. A thrilling whodunit where fortunes hang in the balance and everyone has something to hide. The Foundry, Bell Lane, Brecon, 7pm, £35 ticket includes buffet and arrival drink, 01874 618774, www.thefoundrybrecon.co.uk

Tues 17 & Wed 18 December

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

EUROPEAN ARTS COMPANY. Actor John O’Connor faithfully recreates Charles Dickens’ famous performance. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Thurs 19 December

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Performed by Guy Masterson. The perfect Christmas treat! Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Sat 21 December

MAKING MERRIE

A free, bilingual performance project exploring the folk theatre of the Wales/England border, inspired by mummers’ plays and masked traditions. Inside and outside at Hafan Yr Afon, Newtown, 3pm free, www.orieldavies.org

Sat 21 December

WELCOME TO CHRISTMAS

ABERGAVENNY’S AMATEUR THEATRE community makes a return with its not so traditional ‘Welcome to Christmas’. Music, drama, comedy, fun and audience sing-a-longs. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7.30pm, 01873 850805.

Sun 5 January

TWELFTH NIGHT

THE WILLOW GLOBE THEATRE COMPANY. One of Shakespeare’s best loved plays and sunniest comedies. Full of music, merriment, misconceptions and madness. Set in fairytale Illyria, a ship is wrecked but love is in the air... Wyeside, Builth Wells, 3pm, 01982 552555.

Wed 8 - Fri 10 January

GRANNY ANNIE: A FRANK VICKERY COMEDY

With chaos, miscasts and endless laughs. Granny Annie follows a disastrous attempt to stage Annie, where mishaps steal the spotlight. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, various times, 01873 850805.

Fri 10 January

Y LLYN

Presented by BANDO! A storytelling, dance and music performance inspired by the legend of Llyn y Fan Fach, told in both Welsh and English at the same time. Presteigne Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £12, under 25s £8, tickets available at The Workhouse Gallery, Presteigne or online at www.midborderarts.com

Thurs 16 January

NO LIMITS

WRITING ROOM. An evening of no holds barred work by invited writers and members of The Reading Room and The Playworks Sessions. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 29 January

TWP & TAMPING

Everyone loves a wedding and the inhabitants of Ystrad Cwm Gelli are no exception. Angharad and Mostyn plan their impending nuptuals, supported by their friends, family and an extremeley cheap wedding. Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, 7pm, 01873 850805.

A Christmas Carol, John O’Connor

Y Llyn

Fri 31 January

TEASE

The ultimate burlesque and cabaret experience where sensuality and unadulterated fun collide. Featuring Lady Lust and Miss Temptation with the famous Tease group dancers. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £28 & £25, 01600 772467.

MUSICAL THEATRE & OPERA

Thurs 23 - Sun 26 January

DISNEY’S FROZEN JR

LAURA GALE DANCE AND DRAMA’s stunning cast of young performers brings you this enchanting modern classic. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 2.3pm & 7pm, £15, 01885 488575.

Wed 29 & Thurs 30 January

13 THE MUSICAL

A hilarious, coming-of-age musical. Follow Evan Goldman’s story as he navigates a change of pace as a teen in a sleepy Indiana town. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £19.50, 01743 281281.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Sun 1 December

ALADDIN

Join Aladdin on the journey of a lifetime full of magic, mystery and make-believe as he strives to find his fortune and true love. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, 12pm & 5pm, £18.50, family of four £65, 01874 611622.

Sun 1 December

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER

The show where every child gets a present from Santa. Father Christmas is busy making toys, Dotty the Elf is decorating the Christmas tree and penguin who has never even heard of Christmas... Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 12pm & 3pm, £10, £9 under 16s, £34 family, 01600 772467.

Tues 3 - Sun 15 December

HANSEL AND GRETEL

A fairytale start to Christmas for under 7s and their grown ups. An unforgettable journey through the enchanted forest, filled with adventure, fun and dash of holiday cheer. (Studio Two), Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 01584 878141.

Fri 6 - Sun 8 & Fri 13 - Sun 15 December

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK OUT STAR THEATRE COMPANY. The story of poor-lad Jack who sells the family’s cow at market for some magic beans. Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, 2pm & 7pm, £16, under 16s £12, 01885 488575.

Sat 7 - Tues 24 December

THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER COURTYARD PRODUCTIONS. Ideal first visit to the theatre, an interactive performance and a heart-warming adventure. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Tues 10 - Tues 31 December

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST LUDWIG THEATRE ARTS bring this traditional classic to life with upbeat musical numbers, all the panto comedy and plenty of audience participation. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 01584 878141.

Wed 11 - Tues 24 December

THE OWL WHO CAME FOR CHRISTMAS

Inspired by the true story of Rosie the Owl, this charming tale celebrates the power of love, kindness and the magic of Christmas. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 11am & 2pm, £18-£16.50, child £16-£14.50, schools £13-£12.50, babies/ under 12s free, 01743 281281.

Until Sat 4 January

SLEEPING BEAUTY

The Courtyard’s award-winning professional Christmas panto is back. Step into a fabulous fairy-tale world of magical mayhem and enchanted slumber that only true love can remedy. Jam-packed with jolly jokes, terrific traditions and plenty of audience participation. The Courtyard, Hereford, various times, 01432 340555.

Until Sun 12 January

SLEEPING BEAUTY

Brad Fitt is back for this fun-filled family pantomime. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, various times, 01743 281281.

Fri 13 December - Thurs 2 January

ROBIN HOOD AND THE BABES IN THE WOOD

SPONTAENEOUS PRODUCTIONS. All the usual panto favourites including The Sheriff of Nottingham. Join Robin Hood, Little John and Friar Tuck. (Some shows are for adults only, check website). Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, various times, £17, under 16s £11, family £45, 01600 772467.

Sat 14 December

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER

A 45 minute, interactive family show, suitable for ages 2-8 year olds. Afterwards, each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a present. The Hafren, Newtown, £12.50, children £11.50, family £44, 01686 948100.

Sat 4 & Sun 5 January

POLARIS THE SNOW BEAR

KATE BRAMLEY & BADAPPLE THEATRE. A tall tale for all ages, the young and the young at heart in this original festive tale. 4 Jan - Leominster Community Centre, 2.30pm, £7/£4, 01568 616411. 5 Jan - Quatt Village Hall, 2.30pm, £12/£6, 01746 781214. Arts Alive. Fri 24 - Sun 26, Tues 28 - Fri 31 January & Sat 1 February

ROBIN HOOD

THE WESTENDERS. Packed with the tradtional and some surprise ingredients. Laugh out loud comedy, spectacular sets, music and dancing. Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon, various times, £19, 01874 611622.

Sat 25 January

JACK AND THE BEAN TALK

A fresh and funny retelling of the traditional story and an ideal gentle introduction to theatre for ages 3-8. With free pre-activity from 10.30am. The Courtyard, Hereford, 11am, 01432 340555.

Sun 26 January

I’LL CATCH IT IF I CAN Tommy J performs a fast-paced, high-energy show suitable for the whole family. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 5pm, £12-£10, 01743 281281.

DRAMA WORKSHOPS

Tues 10 & Thurs 12 December HAVE A GO SHAKESPEARE

Taster session. An informal environment with a likeminded group. Come for tea, chat and a bash at Shakepeare. 10 Dec - The Clore, Hay Castle, Hay-onWye, 11am-1pm. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 10.30am, £7, 01982 552555. www.shakespearelink.org.uk

December

MID POWYS YOUTH THEATRE TASTER SESSIONS

4 & 11 Dec - Victoria Hall, Llanwrtyd Wells. 5.30pm6.30pm for ages 9-13. 6.45pm-7.30pm for ages 14-19 years. Details 07810 350 994 / mpyt@mail.co

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

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. Sat - Phoenix 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.

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 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

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

Wednesdays KINGTON YOUTH THEATRE Kington Primary School. Wed - Junior 7-11 years, 4-5.30pm. Intermediate 11+ 5.30-7pm. £42 per term, 01432 340555. 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 All welcome, 10.30am-1pm. 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

Website: www.aardvark-books.com

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

Specialist in art, design, photography, history, gardening

Also open our superb CAFÉ!

The Bookery, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan, Bucknell, SY7 0DH Off A4113 Knighton Road. Tel: 01547 530744

aardvaark@btconnect.com www.aardvark-books.com

Bookshop open to visitors Tues-Sun 10am-4pm. Open Bank Holiday Mondays.

Aardvark Christmas Fair

Sunday 1st December 10am-3pm

Over 20 Stalls, Live music, Free Mulled Wine, Free Entry.

Aardvark Christmas Opening Hours

Aardvark is open as usual except for the 25th, 26th, 30th December & 1st January. Also we will be open on Monday 23rd December for any last minute present buying!

I’ll Catch it if I Can

Poetry & Storytelling

Fri 13 December & Friday 10 January

BLAST STORYTELLING

13 Dec - Andy Harrop Smith and Suzzanne & Jake

Thomas. ‘Midwinter Tales from the Court of King Arthur’. 10 Jan - Ailsa Dixon and Ffion Phillips. ‘Hear Me and Hasten’. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, 8pm, £8, £28 group ticket of four, www.ticketsource.co.uk/BCTH or 01588 630023.

Sun 15 December

EDWYRDIAN TALES

An evening of haunting ghost stories set during Christmastide. Bone chilling tales to conjure the spirits of Christmas... Hellens Manor, Much Marcle, near Ledbury, 7.30pm, 01531 660504, www.hellensmanor.com

Wed 18 December & Wed 15 January

MONTHLY POETRY & PROSE

Mid Wales Arts, Caersws, SY17 5SB, 6.30pm, £5, 01686 688369, www.midwalesarts.org

Thurs 30 January

PELE’S POETRY SERIES

‘The Ruinad’ - Anthony Howell will recite his epic poem and screen two shorts of his perforances: The Horses and The Tower. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 7.30pm, £15 includes welcome drink, 01584 878141.

Comedy

Sun 1 December

RUSSELL KANE

‘Pet Selector!’ Russell Kane presents a children’s comedy show about animals! For ages 7+. Hay Castle, 11.30am, £8. ‘Hyperactive’. High-octane and thrilling comedy. Castle Marquee, Hay-on-Wye, 7pm, £22. Part of Hay Festival Winter Weekend, www.hayfestival.com

Wed 4 December

COMEDY SPECIAL

Featuring Paul Sinha, Alex Kealy and Tadiwa Mahlunge. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, £19, 01600 772467.

Fri 6 December

FARCICAL COMEDY CLUB

Get ready for a night of gut-busting laughter. The Left Bank Village, Bridge St, Hereford, 01432 357753, www.theleftbankvillage.co.uk

Fri 6, Sat 7 Fri 13, Sat 14, Fri 20 & Sat 21 December, Fri 10 & Fri 24 January

WESTONS CIDER COMEDY CLUB

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

Sat 7 December

COMEDY CLUB

Farcial Comedy presents headliner, Terry Alderton, plus Burt Williamson, Samantha Day and Adam Beardsmore. The Corn Exchange, High St, Ross-on-Wye, 8pm, www.farcicalcomedy.co.uk

Sat 7 December

ALFIE MOORE: A FACE FOR RADIO

Somewhere in a parallel universe little Alfie’s natural comedic performance skills were recognised by his doting parents who encouraged and developed his blossoming talent... Wyeside, Builth Wells, 7.30pm, 01982 552555.

Tues 10 December & Tues 14 January

TELFORD COMEDY CLUB

10 Dec - Martin Westgate plus support.

14 Jan - Ian Crawford. The Crown Inn, Oakengates, 7.30pm, £6 in advance/£8 or £13 with curry, 01952 610888.

Thurs 12 December

STAND UP COMEDY PARTY

The Globe, Hay-on-Wye, 8pm, 01497 821762.

Tues 28 January

ALAN DAVIES + SUPPORT

Taskmaster star Alan Davies makes a rare headline appearance. With a line-up of side-splitting comedians. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £33, 01743 281281.

Tues 28 January

IS THAT A WHIP IN YOUR HAND?

Gavin Robertson focuses his attention on the fortune-hunter movie phenomenon in his latest physical cartoon style adventure - spoofing the characters and exploding every cliche... solo! The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.45pm, 01432 340555.

Wed 29 January

COMEDY ON THE COBBLES

New material night in the bar. Prince of Wales, Ledbury, 8pm, 01531 632250.

Fri 7 February

JENNY ECLAIR: JOKES! JOKES! JOKES!

Back with her new show. The tour is accompanied by the publication of her memoir of the same name. Savoy Theatre, Monmouth, 8pm, £25, 01600 772467.

Alﬁe Moore

GF Newman

Talks

Until Sun 1 December

HAY FESTIVAL WINTER WEEKEND

1 Dec - ‘News Review of the Year’, David Olusoga and Hay Festival Guests, 10am, £13. ‘People and Place: Wales and the Welsh Diaspora’, Julia Gillard and Sarah Louisa Birchley, 11.30am, £13. ‘Making Sense of the Chaos’, Shaparak Khorsandi and Jordan Stephens, 1pm, £13. ‘Dogs and Their Humans’ Noel Fitzpatrick talks to Adam Rutherford, 2.30pm, £15. ‘The American No’, Rupert Everett talks to Natalie Haynes, 4pm, £15. ‘Divine Might: Goddesses in Greek Myth’, Natalie Haynes talks to Helen Bagnall, 5.30pm, £15. All the above at Castle Marquee, Hay-on-Wye. 1 Dec - Director’s Breakfast Tour of Hay Castle, 9am, £20. Hay Castle, Hay-on-Wye. www.hayfestival.com

Sun 1 December

KINGTON CASTAWAYS

Author and local legend Geoff Cooper as ‘Nicky’ shares stories from her eventful life and the music behind them. Oxford Arms, Kington, 12pm-4pm, free, 07301 081444. Mon 2 December

REOPENING THE BOX OF DELIGHTS - ONLINE TALK

Join Dr Philip W Errington, acknowledged as the world expert on John Masefield, to discover more about ‘The Box of Delights’. Organised by Hereford Cathedral, £5, 01432 374225. Online talk.

Tues 3 December, Tues 28 January & Tues 25 Feburary

WHAT ON EARTH?!

A series of linked presentations. 3 Dec - ‘Topography, Glacial & Fluvial Influence Landscape Forming Forces’. Nic Howes. Almeley Village Hall, 7.30pm, hosted by The Green Group, Almeley. 28 Jan - ‘Natural History - Plants in a Changing World’ Ray Woods. Kingswood Village Hall, hosted by Kington Branch HWT. 25 Feb - ‘People and Power - Industrial Farming & Globalised Markets’, James Hitchcock. New Radnor Community Hub, hosted by Resilient Radnorshire RWT. Drinks and nibbles, 7.30pm. Details kingtonkleen@gmail.com

Tues 3 December

GOING WILD PROJECT

‘Nature Inspired Art’. A talk by Sarah Gillard. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall, entry by donation, 01588 630023. Fri 6 December & Fri 17 January

HEREFORD ARTS APPRECIATION SOCIETY

6 Dec - Literary Quizzes, prize raffle and Christmas Lunch, 12pm. 17 Jan - ‘The West Country’s Contribution to the Arts’. A talk by Allen Fisher. Office Q, Kindle Centre (next to ASDA), Hereford, 2.30pm, annual membership £10, visitors welcome £2, 01432 270660.

Tues 10 December, Tues 14 January & Tues 11 February

S.W. SHROPSHIRE HISTORICAL & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

10 Dec - ‘Eglantyne and Ellesmere’ with speaker Alison Utting. 14 Jan - ‘All the Wide Border’, with speaker Mike Parker. 11 Feb - ‘The Medieval Stained Glass of Herefordshire & Shropshire’, with speaker Robert Walker. The Church Barn, Bishop’s Castle, 7.30pm, 01588 650173.

Thurs 12 & Sun 15 December

ABBEY CWMHIR HERITAGE TRUST

12 Dec - ‘Abbey Cwmhir and the Conservation of Cultural Identity’, an online talk by Sian Rees, Chair of Cambrian Archaeological Trust and Trustee of Heneb. 7.30pm, to book www.abbeycwmhir.org/talks/ 15 Dec - Llywelyn ap Gruffudd Memorial Service at Abbey ruins, 2pm.

Fri 13 December

GF NEWMAN - BOOK SIGNING

Creator of BBC’s ‘Judge John Deed’ and ‘The Corrupted’. GF Newman will be signing his new book, ‘Merry Christmas!’, a 21st century reimagined version of Charles Dicken’s ‘A Christmas Carol’. Book-ish, Frogmore St, Abergavenny, 1pm, www.book-ish.co.uk or 01873 811256.

Sun 15 December

PETER WRIGHT: HOW DID I GET HERE?

Peter Wright will discuss his new book, Memories of Six Decades in Motorsport, and musings on the future of Formula 1 and the planet, with motoring journalist, Mark Williams. The Assembly Rooms, Presteigne, 3pm. Copies of the book will be available for sale. Voluntary contribution to MBA appreciated. www.howdidigethere.co.uk

Sun 15 December

THE GREATEST STORY EVER (RE)TOLD

The Gospels are just the starting point for the Nativity story. Discover the fascinating ways in which the Christmas story has evolved. Talk, readings, images and live music. The Baptist Church, Presteigne, 3pm, free, donations welcome, refreshments.

Wed 18 December

SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDENING CLUB

‘Great Aunt Aquilegia’s been abducted by aliens - and other gardening flights of fancy’ By Andrew Wyton. Christmas drinks and nibbles. Lydbury North Village Hall, 7.30pm, guests welcome £5, 01588 661025.

Wed 8 January

THE NUREMBERG CHRONICLE LECTURE

Hosted by The Friends of Hereford Cathedral. The Revd. Canon Dr Maureen Palmer is kindly repeating her illustrated lecture on the Chained Library and its treasures. Hereford Cathedral, 11am, free, but ticketed, please book via email friends@herefordcathedral.org

Fri 10 January

IN CONVERSATION WITH MONTY DON, OBE AND KATE HUMBLE

In support of the Charity Bees for Development. An evening of gardening, farming and sustainable chat. Blake Theatre, Monmouth, 7.30pm, 01600 719401.

Sat 11 January

HEREFORDSHIRE & MID WALES HARDY PLANT SOCIETY

‘Why Wait for Spring’, a talk by Helen Picton from Old Courty Nurseries. Glasbury Village Hall, 2pm, plants will be available for sale. Email vanessa.doyle@plantingspecialist.co.uk

Starting Wed 22 January - Wed 19 March

EXPLORING HEREFORD’S HISTORY

An eight week lecture series. Hereford Guild of Mayor’s guides. Kindle Centre, Hereford, Wednesday mornings, for information www.herefordguidedwalks.org.uk

Thurs 23 January

LOUIS RUDD MBE

A record-breaking polar adventurer, expedition leader and SAS soldier. Louis will be signing copies of his book, ‘Endurance’, in the foyer after the show. A joint fundraiser for The Courtyard and Hereford Veterans Support Centre. The Courtyard, Hereford, 7.30pm, 01432 340555.

Thurs 23 January

THE ARTS SOCIETY MID WALES & BORDERS

‘Bombay - Spiced Up Gothic Revival for the Raj’. With speaker Anthony Peers. Powis Suite, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool, 2.30pm, £7, 01938 555574.

Fri 24 January

BENEATH THE BEARSKIN

An insight into some of the most important ceremonial events in recent history with instrumental national events planner, Garrison Sergeant Major Vern Stokes. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £15, 01743 281281.

Sat 25 January

AN EVENING WITH AGGERS

True cricket legend and renowned BBC correspondent, Jonathan Agnew recounts highlights and hardships from his career, both on and off the field. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, 7.30pm, £37, 01743 281281.

Wed 22 January

TEA AND TOAST

Women’s Networking Group for local business women looking to widen their networking group. Wyeside, Builth Wells, 10am, no booking required, free event, 01982 552555.

Sat 25 January

ARTIST TALK: ERIN HUGHES

Talk by Erin Hughes. Round Studio, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, 5pm-6pm. This will be live streamed via DAC; go to their FB page for details on how to login.

Workshops & Courses

Wed 18 & Wed 15 January

POETRY & PROSE

Mid Wales Arts, Caersws, SY17 5SB, 6.30pm, £5, 01686 688369.

Sat 11 January

EXPLORING SHAKESPEARE’S TRAGEDIES

‘Othello’. A particpatory study event, led by Clare Smout. The session includes an introductory talk, video clips and group discussions. Ludlow Assembly Rooms, 2pm, £24, 01584 878141.

January - March

HEREFORD GUILD OF MAYOR’S GUIDES

‘Exploring Hereford’s History’ - an eight week lecture series which takes place at the Kindle Centre, Hereford on Wednesday mornings between 22nd January and 19th March. For more information see www.herefordguided walks.org.uk.

January, Februay & March

ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY ONLINE COURSES

13 Jan - Branching Out: How to use Estate Records for Family History, £70. 27 Jan - Writing Women, £130. 28 Jan - Creating Podcasts, £70. 29 Jan - Editing and Shaping your Work, £70. 29 Jan - Writing Science Fiction and Speculative Fiction, £130. 29 Jan - Architectural History: The Archaeology of Our Built Environment, £130. 30 Jan - The ‘Weaker Vessel’: Roles of Women in the 17th Century, £130. 3 Feb - In Pursuit of Opportunities and Enterprise: I Can Do It!, £130. 4 Feb - Welsh History 1: Early Modern Wales (c. 1485-1815), £130. 10 Feb - Archaeology and Anthropology of Death and Burial, £130. 10 Feb - Writing as a Creative Process, £130. 10 Feb - Words That Run With Wolves: Writing for Children, £130. 10 Feb - Supporting Neuro-diverse learners, £70. 10 Feb - Archaeology for Beginners, £130.

10 Feb - Acorn To Oak: Building your Family Tree, £130.

11 Feb - Memorials and their Meaning: Controversial Gateways to your Community’s Past, £130.

11 Feb - Autobiographical Writing, £130. 22 Feb - An Introduction ot History Sources at the National Library of Wales, £130. 27 Feb - Introduction to English Literature, £130. 3 March - Normalising Menopause, £70. Aberystwyth University Online Courses. Details 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

THE COURTYARD WORKSHOPS

Mon - Writing Room Extra. Ongoing sessions for writers with some experience, 3-5pm, £110 per term. Mon - Writing 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

Jonathan Agnew

grass roots

Will Labour deliver a total ban on ultra toxic pesticide?

N their early months in power, Labour ministers have made a faltering start, almost as though they have forgotten how government is done. But there is one area where they could deliver dramatic beneﬁcial change, by doing absolutely nothing. That relates to the environmental regime on the use of pesticides.

That’s because the Tories, during their last half decade in power, repeatedly granted a reprieve to the highly poisonous group of pesticides known as neonicotinoids. It is well over ten years since the devastating effect of “neonics” on bees and other pollinators began to be reported in scientiﬁc journals.

The effect of even minute doses of neonics had been found to cause “…problems with ﬂying and navigation, impaired memory and learning, reduced foraging ability, as well as reduction in breeding success….” Basically, if you were a bee or other pollinator and you encountered even a microscopic amount of a neonic, it was curtains.

From 2018 onwards, these dreadfully damaging chemicals were repeatedly lined up for the chop by the authorities. But, in most years, a branch of the farming lobby, the growers of sugar beet in the east of England, were able to secure their continued widespread use.

They could do this through a loophole allowing the government to cite the need for “emergency” use of the poison, to attack a pest which, it was claimed, threatened grave damage to sugar beet crops.

This was not done on the sly by some group of rogue farmers. In most years from 2018 onwards, governments and the regulator were routinely complicit in waving through the “emergency” use of neonics, to beneﬁt a narrow interest group of farmers, in just one region.

To make sure this dreadful threat to bees and other pollinators is removed, the new government need do absolutely nothing. All it must ensure is that any move by civil servants or regulators to claim emergency use of neonics is ﬁrmly slapped down.

According to a report in Farmers Weekly, “Neonicotinoid pesticides have been banned for use

in the EU since 2013, after their use was linked to a decline in bee populations and other pollinators”.

However, says the magazine, after Britain left the trading bloc in 2016, the then Tory government…“used its Brexit powers to grant emergency authorisations for use of neonics in sugar beet seed, to protect crops from virus yellows disease…”

When it comes to academic bee experts, the leading ﬁgure in Britain is Dave Goulson, Professor of Biology at Sussex University. He has written hundreds of learned articles on bees and the degree to which they are vulnerable to neonics.

Goulson has said that just one teaspoonful of neonicotinoid is enough to kill about one and a quarter billion bees, or about four lorry loads of them. Eighteen years ago, Prof Goulson founded the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, a charity which now has more than 10,000 members.

Goulson admits that when he was asked to investigate the toxicity of neonics to bees, he was at ﬁrst sceptical. But, after years of research, he has become totally convinced of the overwhelming harm allegedly caused by neonics. How do they do this? “They are neurotoxins,” he says, “binding to neural receptors in the brain and causing swift paralysis and death.”

In ﬁeld studies, he and his fellow researchers found that, ironically, bumblebees seemed especially attracted to plants whose seeds had been treated with neonicotinoids.

Over more than half a decade, the deliberate and perverse refusal of ministers to follow the pleas of their own experts on neonics is surely one of the greatest environmental scandals of our times.

The Starmer administration cannot undo the wanton damage done to wildlife by recent governments permitting neonics. But on these horrendous pesticides, it can at least point the way towards a new and more responsible future. Let’s see if, in this ﬁeld, Starmer can live up to his banner slogan of “change”.

Julian O’Halloran

Professor Dave Goulson

Green Events

Fri 13 December THE LEOMINSTER BRANCH OF HEREFORD WILDLIFE TRUST

Celebrate the first year of the branch with a quiz, light supper and entertainment. Tea/coffee available, but BYOB. Cawley Hall, Luston, HR6 0DS, 7pm, £8, please book, 01432 356872 or email LeominsterAreaBranch@ gmail.com

Sun 29 December CHRISTMAS NATURE WALK

Join Grant for a tour around the Onny Meadows. Outdoor footwear and clothing required, all welcome including dogs. A gentle stroll over one mile. Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, 10.30am-12.30pm, free, no need to book, 01588 676060. December BECOMING LICHEN Walks. 14 Dec - Gilfach Nature Reserve, 12 noon. 21 Dec - Outside Oriel Davies Gallery, 8.35am. wwwlorieldavies.org

January, February & March ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY ONLINE COURSES

16 Jan - Land Use Management, £130. 3 Feb - A Guide to Environmental Impact Assessment, £130. 3 Feb - Animal Behaviour, £130. 10 Feb - Ecology 2, £130. 10 Feb - Evolutionary Biology - An Introduction, £130. 10 Feb - Introduction to Astronomy, £130.

10 Feb - Plant Diversity, £130. 17 Feb - Discovering Invertebrates, £130. 19 Feb - Plants and their Habitats, £130. 19 Feb - Introduction to Gymnosperms, £130.

3 March - Understanding Amphibians, £130. 3 MarchWoodland Birds, £130. Aberystwyth University online classes. Details 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

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.

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. See Facebook, also booking via 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

ANIMAL COMMUNICATION Helping to understand your animal’s behaviour, needs and nature, to resolve emotional and behavioural problems and to deepen your relationship. Contact Kohra on 01544 262 110 or kohra@ gmx.co.uk

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

CUDDLE SESSIONS Are you longing for physical connection? Or perhaps life just feels like too much and you could just use a good long hug? I offer a safe space for you to be held, express your desires for touch, and express any emotions that come up in the experience. Sessions can be a fun, informal movie night experience, or dive more deeply into unexpressed emotions. Connect with me, Emily Martin, at 07747 250720 or www.bigasskinkyheart.com

CULTIVATING SPACE I offer Wild therapy, Coaching and Decluttering. Let go of the physical and emotional obstacles in your way. Reconnect with yourself, others and nature, and start living the life you wish for. Based near Ludlow. Contact Tracey Baylis on 01584 823519 or 07905 967263. Walk/talk, face to face and online consultations available. Cultivatingspace.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.

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 ASSESSMENT / REMOVAL I offer a mole checking service with a dermatology report in 48 hours. A variety of lesions can be removed in 1-3 treatments. Appointments available in Leominster & Bromyard Contact Mandy on TEL 07742228196 www.flourishandjoy.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL, EXPERIENCED, UKCP ACCREDITED

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.

SILVER LANTERN COUNSELLING a compassionate space with someone trained to listen and be with you as you explore your inner world, someone to hear your story. For more information visit www.silverlanterncounselling. co.uk, telephone Julia on 07785 473785 or email: info@silverlanterncounselling.co.uk

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

YOGA IN PRESTEIGNE

Groups and one-to-one tuition in Stapleton Move more freely • Breathe better Think more clearly • Experience joy New: Vedic chant classes Marie Hudson 01544 260352 www.theyogapractice.org.uk

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

Workshops

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

Fri 10 - Sun 12 & Fri 17 - Sun 19 January

FLOW LIKE A RIVER

Yoga and wild swiming retreat. Four distinct yoga practices, four open water swims, walking meditation, daily vegetarian and vegan meals. Chapel on the Green, Glasbury, HR3 5LJ, email info@riverflowyoga.co.uk

Mondays & Tuesdays BREATHE IN YOGA WITH KATY The Regal, Tenbury Wells, Mon 9.30am, Tues 6pm, 01584 811442.

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.

COMPANY ALONG THE WAY

Year long vision quest. Following the Hero’s Journey; J Campbell and the 13 moons. Once every 2/3 months gathering. Golden Valley, Saturdays 10am-4.30pm. Contact Kirsten 01544 388689, kirsten.hellier@googlemail.com

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.

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.

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.

THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

Tues - Yoga, 9.15am-10am, £6 per session. Wed - Pilates, 11am-12pm, £6 per session. The Courtyard, Hereford, 01432 340555.

Hedgerow Medicine