Love Local Magazines - Forest of Dean Dec'18

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Forest of Dean YO U R F R E E LO C A L CO M M U N I T Y M AG A Z I N E

SHORT STORY

Christmas Carol GARDENING

Get fit and garden! RECIPE

Christmas Mincemeat Slice Estuary Oils Your Leading Fuels & Lubricants Supplier

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Caldicot: 01291 422 656 Cardiff: 02920 887 973 Forest of Dean: 01594 825 130

December 2018


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Old Year, New Us You will have seen The Forest of Dean Magazine published by Glos Directories for the last few years when you’ve picked up a copy at the various places we arrange for drop-off.

Well, ‘The Forest of Dean Magazine’ still exists – you are looking at it! – but we’ve ended 2018 with a name change and a fresh new look. As the logo on the front says, we are now Love Local Magazines, and this is the Forest of Dean edition of our six areas. Although we will be changing the website and email addresses too (these things are so much work) all the old contact methods work, and the phone numbers stay the same. And of course, we still have our lovely advertisers old and new, the local news and popular articles and puzzles

are included as ever.

This has all been a fun distraction from what I should have been doing – Christmas shopping. I have the added challenge of it being my son’s birthday on Christmas Day, so I have this creeping feeling of panic washing over me. Everything does always get there, I just really don’t know how. As this is the last edition of the year, the Love Local Magazines office would like to wish all our advertisers and readers a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Sarah D.

CONTACT US CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES FOR MEN

www.forestofdeanmagazine.co.uk Front cover image: Christmas at Brayne Court. Kindly provided by Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism.

VISCONTI LEATHER k MERC k COLOURS & SONS

If you are an advertiser with us now or would like details about advertising, call Sarah on 01242 388 367 or email Sarah@lovelocalmagazines.co.uk

CACTUS BAGS k PANTOFOLA D’ORO k DARIO BELTRAN

If you want to contact us about what's included in the magazine call Anne on 01242 388 366 or email Anne@lovelocalmagazines.co.uk

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or Sh

y tor S t

Christmas Carol

Chris and Sophie had become engaged after what Chris’s parents, Kevin and Jenny, considered a bit of a whirlwind romance, so inviting Sophie’s mum over for Christmas dinner had seemed like a good way for the two families to get to know each other. Carol had arrived earlier than expected, accompanied by a vibrant purple perm, flashing reindeer antlers and a crate of stout. “I’ll just park myself here.” She wedged herself at the kitchen table. “Pass me a bottle will you?” “I’m surprised our Chris didn’t offer you a lift,” Jenny said, taking a glass off the shelf. “It’s not how we brought him up, is it Kevin?”

Carol knocked the cap off her stout on the edge of the table. “Men! My third husband 4

treated his python better then he treated me.” “Have you been married three times, Carol?” Jenny stirred the bread sauce nervously. This was news. “I wish I’d stopped at three.” Carol shook her head. “Mind you,” she added with a belch, “I’m currently young, free and single.” She fluttered her eyelashes menacingly at Kevin, who affected a sudden fascination with the contents of the cutlery drawer.

“Let’s hope divorce doesn’t run in the family,” Jenny laughed nervously, “for all our sakes.” “Nah, my daughter’s got her head screwed on right.” Carol waved her almost empty glass. “Of course, she was engaged to that chap from the fish market. Nice lad.” She took a final slurp. “Hold your horses I said to her, do you really want your curtains


smelling of crab sticks?”

“When was this?” Jenny asked casually, turning down the gas under the pan of sprouts. “It was after she’d called off the wedding to that other chap, who worked on the bins.” She adjusted her drooping antlers. “I wasn’t keen on him. He had really long arms.” “Is that right?” Jenny nudged Kevin.

“And then there was that fella from Hartlepool.” Carol reached for another bottle. “I’d say, on average, she gets engaged every six months. I’ve stopped bothering the hat shop now.” Jenny looked at Kevin in alarm.

“I wonder what’s holding the lovebirds up?” Jenny folded up a tea-towel decisively. “Kevin, could give me a hand with something in the hall?” “Certainly love.” Kevin followed her, relieved to be out of the kitchen.

“Who’s Rose?” Kevin asked, relieving Chris of his load. “Sophie’s mum,” Chris said, taking off his coat.

“Then who’s Carol?” Jenny asked.

“Carol? That’s what the missing aunt’s called.” Chris sounded surprised. “Apparently she’s a bit of a handful.” By Jackie Brewster

The Card Shop

Christmas cards, bags, 01531 828008 festive wrapping paper WE ARE OPEN & much more! Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm Come and choose from our fantastic range!

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“Well that’s Christmas ruined,” Jenny whispered to him at the foot of the stairs. “Why’s that?” Kevin said.

“Haven’t you been listening?” She wrung her hands on her apron. “Sophie’s going to break our poor boy’s heart.” “Here they are now,” he said, as the front door opened.

“Sorry, we’re late.” Chris, his arms laden with gifts, leaned over to kiss Jenny’s cheek. “Merry Christmas.” “What held you up?” Jenny said. “And where’s Sophie?”

“We got talking to the Chadburns over the road.” He pushed the door shut with his foot. “Their nutty aunt hasn’t turned up and they’re panicking. Sophie and Rose are helping them call the police.”

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Quiet time in the Garden

The Garden Lady 01594 541118 or 07767 690009 Catherine uses her 26+ years of knowledge, skills and experience to create landscape magic, transforming your garden into a beautiful and practical oasis.

Most gardeners look at the onset of winter with a mixture of relief and sadness. Relief that the rush to keep on top of chores like weeding and grass cutting is over and sadness for some perhaps that the fresh colours of spring and the warmth of summer are so far away now.

With the shortest day of the year fast approaching, we are entering a quiet time in the garden, however, you can still spot flowers on winterflowering shrubs such as Viburnum and Mahonia. When frost and fierce winds have stripped the garden bare, only evergreens remain in leaf; leaving the garden skeletal on show while seed heads and trees turn into striking features. Take walks in the countryside to enjoy the silhouettes of trees, the bright bark of the silver birch and the red berries of hawthorn. Walk around your garden and bring foliage, flowers and fragrance indoors to enjoy.

Protect your pots now. Raise pots off the ground to prevent them from getting waterlogged.

Clear away garden items and tools that may get damaged by the cold weather. Clean them well and wipe them with a little 3-in-1 oil before storing to save them from getting rusty.

Tip: Create great compost by recycling spent plants and collecting leaves. By this time next year, you’ll have stacks of free soil conditioner and mulch. Christmas gift inspiration for the gardener in your life: Buy Catherine's book “Discover the seeds of greatness – An inspirational journey around the garden”. - Catherine Williams, The Garden Lady 6

AVAILABLE FOR: • Training on ‘How to maintain your garden’ • Solving problem areas & revamps • Talks & workshops for clubs/groups • Demonstrations & question time • Garden design & consultancy • Professional speaking & signing of her book Covering the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, Monmouth and Ross-on-Wye. Contact Catherine for a no obligation chat about how she can help you in your garden or speak at your event.

The Haven, Hart Lane, Ruardean, GL17 9UT mail2@thegardenlady.me.uk

www.thegardenlady.me.uk/gardening-blog

differen ke a ce a M

Do you have skills, interests and knowledge that would benefit young people? We are taking the exciting step of recruiting volunteers. To promote an ethos of ‘work for reward’ amongst young people.

If you are interested in offering some time to support the Aston Project, we would very much like to hear from you. You can complete the online Volunteer form via the link found at www.astonproject.co.uk. under the “Volunteer” section or you can get in touch on the below contact details if you would simply like to find out more. T: 01452 907252 or 07813 351346 E: astonproject@gloucestershire.pnn.police.uk W: www.astonproject.co.uk

Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Gloucestershire


Bilbo’s Hydrotherapy & Pet Spa: For friends with hairy feet! Do they play when you're away?

Drop your dog off at Bilbo’s Doggy Day Care and let them spend the day socialising with other dogs, running around off-lead and burning off all that energy. That way, when you come home, you can enjoy a restful evening with your pooped-out dog.

Bilbo’s Hydrotherapy and Doggy Day Care Bilbo’s offers a convenient “one-stop shop” for pet owners Hydrotherapy with NARCHregistered Hydrotherapists

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• Max 10 dog facility • Indoor/Outdoor Care • 1/3 price reduction in swim & grooming Find us on Facebook and Twitter

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Doggy paddle really is good for your pet

Researchers say swimming can keep canines healthy. Pool sessions help the recovery of injured dogs and give healthy dogs a health boost as well as improving their stride. Bilbo’s Hydrotherapy offers pool and/or water treadmill sessions for rehabilitation, fun, fitness and performance. Bilbo’s also offers you the opportunity to swim with your dog! Vouchers are available for the ultimate Christmas present.

Transform your pet from shabby to chic! Book your dog into Bilbo’s Pet Spa for a makeover! Our services include bathing, clipping, style cuts, puppy cuts, hand strips and nail trimming. Why not combine a groom with daycare while you enjoy a day out doing the Christmas shopping?

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Page 7


Finance Don’t let Christmas costs ruin your New Year: 3 ways to stay in control of spending this December

overdraft facility that’s repaid over a few months helps gets you back on track financially.

How do overdrafts work? An overdraft that’s pre-arranged with your bank means you can withdraw more money than is in your current account, up to an agreed limit. There is generally a set period of time that the facility is available, and typically a charge for each day you’re overdrawn. Overdraft fees vary between banks, but generally include a charge for setting up the facility, a fee for each day it’s used and a renewal fee if you need to extend it. Some providers offer fee-free amounts, whilst others base their daily charge on the level of your overdrawn balance.

DAILY DEALS WEBSITES

If you’re wondering how to manage your Christmas spending more effectively, saving, budgeting, and making a list is just the start. Here are three other ways you might not have considered to start the New Year with a healthy bank balance and reduced financial stress.

PRE-ARRANGED OVERDRAFT FACILITY

Intended to be a temporary and controlled use of credit in line with your Christmas budget, an arranged 8

Take advantage of the growing number of daily deals websites and you can save a significant amount at Christmas. Wowcher, Groupon, and Living Social are just a few of the sites where you’ll find great deals on gifts, experiences, fitness products and lots more.

It’s straightforward to sign up, and you can receive emails with the latest deals. It’s easy to get carried away when you have access to so many discounts, but if you do your research and stick to your list, it should save you money overall. How do deals websites work? You simply sign up with your email address and you can get targeted gift ideas, often with a significant discount. Key in the hometown of


people you’re buying for and you’ll receive ideas that are local to them – meals out, afternoon teas or experience days, tailored to your family and friends.

PREPAID DEBIT CARDS

Prepaid debit cards are an alternative to bank debit cards and credit cards. You don’t have access to your entire bank balance or the credit limit on your credit card – it’s preloaded with a specific sum of cash, and you can only spend up to this amount.

How do prepaid debit cards work? You won’t be credit-checked when you apply for a prepaid card, but a number of different fees may apply, including

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application and transaction fees. Some providers charge monthly fees and top-up fees, whilst a renewal charge may apply as these types of card expire after three years.

It’s easy to be swept up in the spirit of giving at Christmas, but it can take months to recover from overspending. Whether arranging an overdraft with your bank, applying for a prepaid card, or taking advantage of a few daily deals works for you, they could all help you take control of your Christmas spending and enjoy a peaceful and financially harmonious New Year.

By Ann Haldon

U L D I E T

3 Lette DIE DUE You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the LED letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns LEI LET are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a LID normal everyday word. 3 letters: 9 4 letters: 13 5 letters: 2 6 letters: 1 LIE LIT

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What foods should you avoid feeding your dog this Christmas?

As tempting as it is to share your favourite festive treats with your dog, there are certain foods they shouldn’t eat – and some are potentially deadly. So which ones should you avoid giving to your dog this Christmas? Turkey Turkey is a rich meat that can disturb a dog’s digestive system, potentially to the point of serious illness. Some dogs may be fine with a tiny amount of white boneless turkey meat, but the skin is very fatty and the bones are a choking hazard. Chocolate Chocolate is one Christmas treat that needs to be avoided at all costs unless you buy doggy chocs for your pet. Chocolate contains a compound that’s poisonous to dogs – in fact, chocolate poisoning is so serious that if they eat too much they’ll need to have their stomach pumped.

Mince pies, Christmas pudding and Christmas cake Raisins are severely toxic to dogs, with grape and raisin poisoning being a common problem often requiring veterinary intervention to prevent further 10

serious health issues – one of these being kidney failure.

Nuts Nuts can cause severe gastrointestinal problems for your dog, with obstruction of the bowel being a particular issue. Some varieties of nut, including pecans and walnuts, can bring on seizures and should be avoided at all costs.

Clearly, there’s a case for watching your dog very carefully over Christmas. It’s all too easy to leave chocolate or nuts lying around, and they’re only too quick to take advantage of the fact.

https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/ digestive/e_dg_grape_raisin_toxicity https://www.wagthedoguk. com/2014/08/22/bad-nuts-for-dogs/ By Ann Haldon

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The Top 10 of Motoring The top 10 most expensive motors, according to Luxhabitat: 1. Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita: £3.6m 2. Lamborghini Veneno Roadster: £3.4m 3. Lykan Hypersport: £2.6m 4. Bugatti Veyron by Mansory Vivere: £2.5m 5. Aston Martin Valkryie: £2.4m 6. Ferrari Pininfarina Sergio: £2.3m 7. Pagani Huraya BC: £2.1m 8. Ferrari Laferrari Aperta: £1.7m 9. Zenvo TS1: £1.5m 10. Mazzanti Evantra Millcavalli: £900K

Confused.com’s top 10 most stolen cars: 1. Mercedes C-class 2. BMW X5 3. Range Rover Sport 4. Mercedes-Benz E-class 5. BMW 3 Series 6. Land Rover Discovery 7. Range Rover Autobiography 8. BMW M3

PUZZLE ANSWERS 3 Letters DIE DUE LED LEI LET LID LIE LIT

TIE 4 Letters DELI DIET DUEL DUET EDIT IDLE LIED

QUIZ (p. 12)

LIEU LITE LUTE TIDE TIED TILE 5 Letters TILDE TILED

By Iain Betson

9. VW Golf 10. Audi RS4

From the Honest John website, we come to a rogue’s gallery top 10 of cars that gave the least overall owner satisfaction. 1. Ford Ka 2. Citroen C1 3. VW Touran 4. Fiat 500 5. Renault Laguna 6. Renault Megane 7. Peugeot 407 8. BMW Z4 9. Citroen C3 10. Vauxhall Vectra

So, where do that leave us? Just that buying a far-Eastern made, midpriced, security equipped car, won’t get you onto any of these top-10s. Happy Motoring!

SUDOKU (p. 12)

6 Letters DILUTE

(p. 9)

(1) Downton Abbey (2) Mr Bean (3) Only Fools And Horses (4) 2013 (5) Futurama (6) Mr Benn (7) Shaun The Sheep (8) Archie Mitchell (accept Archie) (9) Greyhound (10) Mr Hankey the Christmas Poo

PICTOGRAMS (p. 12) 1. Some Like It Hot 2. The French Connections 3. The Dark Knight Rises

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE (p. 19)

1. Brick missing 2. Soot cloud 3. Candy Cane 4. Blue Present 5. Holly 6. Hand missing 7. Big Eyes 8. Belt 9. Vase 10. Sock Colour

WORDWHEEL (p. 12): IMPATIENT Target: Excellent: 55 or more words; Good: 46 words; Fair: 40 words Page 11


PICTOGRAMS

Movie Title Pictograms 4 words

IKEITHO 3 words

KISS DAWN FRIES

QUIZ

4 words

CHRISTMAS TV

SIR

WORDWHEEL Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.

M T

N I

T I

A

E P

TARGET Excellent: 55 or more words Good: 46 words Fair: 40 words 12

SUDOKU

Puzzle Page

1. The final episode of which TV show was the most-watched TV show in the UK on Christmas Day 2015? 2. In a 1992 Christmas special, who fails to give his girlfriend, Irma Gobb, the engagement ring she wanted when he didn’t realise what she was pointing to, and instead gives her a picture of an engaged couple that was next to it in the shop? 3. Screened on Christmas Day in 2003, Sleepless In Peckham was the final episode of which long-running TV sitcom? 4. On Christmas Day of what year did a Doctor Who episode called The Time Of The Doctor see Peter Capaldi take over from Matt Smith as the Doctor? 5. Which TV series features a robot Santa Claus who, due to a programming error, judges almost everyone to be naughty and every Christmas, goes on a murderous rampage? 6. The title character in which TV show lived at 52 Festive Road? 7. Broadcast on Boxing Day 2015, The Farmer’s Llamas was a Christmas special of which TV show? 8. Which character from EastEnders was murdered on Christmas Day in 2009? 9. Introduced in the first episode of The Simpsons, what breed of dog is Santa’s Little Helper? 10. On the TV show South Park, who brings presents to boys and girls whose diets have been high in fibre? Answers: p. 11


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Caldicot: 01291 422 656 Cardiff: 02920 887 973 Forest of Dean: 01594 825 130 Emergency Telephone Numbers: Andrew 07887 777 752 / David 07976 091 307

Page 13


Christmas Mincemeat Slice

This delicious festive slice can be served warm as a pud with custard, thick cream or brandy butter or simply cool completely and serve instead of mince pies.

Ready in 1 h 15 mins, plus chilling & cooling | Makes 12-14 slices INGREDIENTS 225g plain flour

165g unsalted butter, chilled and diced 1 egg yolk blended with 1 tbsp cold water 75g caster sugar

300g good quality mincemeat 50g ground almonds

2 tbsp flaked almonds

TIP

Add some finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts to the crumble topping for an extra nutty flavour.

14

Sift the flour into a large bowl and rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles very fine breadcrumbs (alternatively pulse in a food processor until fine breadcrumbs).

Remove 100g of the breadcrumb mixture and cover and chill in the fridge. Stir 25g of the sugar into the remaining mixture, then stir in the egg and water and mix to a firm dough (adding a little more water if needed). Knead lightly then wrap in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas mark 6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and use to line a 23cm square tart tin. Prick the pastry all over with a fork. Line the pastry case with baking paper and baking beans and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the lining paper and beans and bake for a further 5-7 minutes until the pastry is crisp and pale golden. Cool slightly. Reduce the oven temperature to 180C/160C fan/gas mark 4. Spread the mincemeat in the pastry case. Mix the rest of the sugar and the ground almonds into the reserved pastry crumb mixture and scatter over the mincemeat to cover completely.

Return the tin to the oven and bake for a further 25-30 minutes or until the crumble topping is pale golden. Scatter over the flaked almonds and leave to cool before removing from the tin and cutting into 12-14 thin slices.


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Page 15


The Life List Job Done

A job interview is an opportunity to shine. It’s like a first date after the prospective employer has read your carefully prepared (i.e. highly subjectively written) CV. What could possibly go wrong? Here’s a handy list of things not to say at a job interview:

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Auction Anecdote This month’s anecdote might be slightly shorter than usual since I am typing it from my hospital bed. After a very successful sale on the 9th November, I had chosen to spend the Saturday morning walking on the Malvern Hills. Following a rainy start, I had enjoyed a lovely walk with stunning views when I suddenly slipped and, to my horror, broke my ankle! It took four hours for the emergency services to get me off the slippery hillside and I am now typing this anecdote from my bed while waiting for a bionic ankle operation which will involve an arrangement of metal plates and screws. The November sale included a special section of silver and jewellery and I had been delighted by the trays of diamond rings and other jewellery on offer. Top price of the day was £6,200 paid by a local private client for a large diamond solitaire ring set with a very impressive 5.5 ct stone. The ring had been consigned by a local family. It did have some stranded inclusions which meant it was not of fantastic clarity under an eyeglass but it looked fine to the naked eye. Other notable prices included a three-stone diamond ring which made £3,300 and a fine Victorian silver snuff box by Nathaniel Mills which made £400 in a very strong section of silver collectables. Smiths’ next antiques and collectables sale will be on 7th December. The viewing (with a festive twist) will be on Thursday 6th between 10am and 7pm and includes complimentary mulled wine and mince pies. For further information, telephone 01531 821776 or visit www.smithsnewentsauctions.co.uk. - Written by Rita Kearsey Manager of Smiths Auction Room at Newent

Monthly Sales of Antiques & Collectables 7th December Sale at 10am With Antique Toy Section also includes Jewellery, Silver, Ceramics, Glass, Furniture, Pictures & Collectables

Viewing Day prior 10am - 7pm and morning of sale

Fully illustrated catalogues available online

Victorian Table Croquet Set. Est £200/£400

Live Steam Locomotive Est £300/£500

Next Sale: 25th January With Coin Section Entries Invited 11th 13th & 18th December 10am-3pm or by appointment

Home visits for larger consignments

Live online bidding available at

www.smithsnewentauctions.co.uk Page 17


Potted Smoked Salmon

This is the perfect starter for the lunch on the big day – you can make it the night before and the recipe will easily double up if you are feeding a crowd at Christmas!

Ready in 30 minutes, plus chilling time | Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

275g honey roast salmon flakes 250g smoked salmon slices, chopped

100g unsalted butter, softened 125g full-fat soft cheese

2 tsp creamed horseradish 1 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Fresh dill sprigs and green peppercorns, to garnish Slices of toasted brown or granary bread, to serve

Reserve about 25g of the salmon flakes for garnish (cover and chill in the fridge until required). Place the rest of the salmon flakes in a food processor with the smoked salmon, butter, soft cheese, horseradish and lemon juice. Process until smooth and creamy. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for a further few seconds.

Divide the mixture between 6 small ramekin dishes and level the surface. Cover and chill in the fridge until required. Garnish with the rest of the salmon flakes, dill sprigs and green peppercorns. Serve with toasted brown or granary bread.

TIP

Most supermarkets sell packs of ready-flaked honey roast salmon but if unavailable just buy ready-cooked smoked salmon fillets and roughly flake the fish, discarding any skin and fine bones. 18


STAMP APPEAL We need your used postage stamps Used postage stamps can be turned into valuable funds for New Start Cat Rescue What to do: Collect your used postage stamps and those from friends, family, colleagues or local businesses Cut out the stamps leaving a 1/4 inch or 1/2cm border all the way around on a single layer of envelope Pop them into a stamped envelope

Send stamps to: NEW START CAT RESCUE Used Stamp Appeal Fords Farm Horsey Norfolk NR29 4EP

Compton Green Business Park Redmarley Road, Newent

Various Size Units To Let Storage / Distribution / Office Workshops Refurbished and Insulated Premises Do Not Flood Single / Three Phase Electrics

CCTV/HD Cameras On Site

Mobile Ten Tonne Container Loading Ramp - Now Available For more information please phone John Stallard

01531 820568

M t n e w WE NEED YOUR FURNITURE Ne AND ELECTRICALS rt P e v d A

Items need to be in good condition and in working order (upholstered furniture needs to have fire labels). Help us to help those who need us with your donations.

We do FREE COLLECTIONS on furniture every Thursday. Please call us on 01594 827205 to arrange collection and we will be happy to help you.

Spot the difference! Can you find all 10?

Page 19


Home Products Great beds for guests

By Katherine Sorrell Add cushions to turn this day bed into a sofa, pop on some bedding and it’s a single sleep space, or pull out the base and it transforms into a double bed. Hemnes day bed frame with three drawers, £239, Ikea.

Not enough bedrooms? A sofa bed – or other type of informal guest bed – is your answer. Make sure you invest in one that combines both comfort and style, says Katherine Sorrell.

Choose the right oCCasional bed • Whether you are choosing a sofa, a day bed or a bed-in-a-box, your first consideration is that it should be well made, comfortable to sit on (seats are often firmer than on conventional sofas), and suits the size, shape and style of your room when closed. • Look for a mechanism that is easy to open and don’t squeak, stick or feel overly loose. A lock-down bar is an asset, ensuring that the bed is properly closed. The inner workings should be smooth, with no parts sticking out that might catch on your sheets. • For a sofa bed to be really comfortable to sleep on, wooden slats with webbing offer the best support, while a proper sprung mattress is much better than a thin foam one, though similarly more expensive. Always test before you buy! • Size matters. A two-seater sofa will open out into a great bed for one person, but a couple will struggle for space unless you invest in a threeseater. That said, a large sofa does not inevitably transform into a large sleeping space, so always check dimensions. • If storage is an issue, look for a style that contains space for tucking away bedding.

20

This inexpensive and stylish sofa bed is ideal for occasional guests. The back folds down, creating a four-foot-wide sleeping platform. Lunar sofa bed, £399, Carpetright. This sturdy single guest bed can easily be folded away into a good-looking, upholstered box. Alison bed in a box, £560, Living It Up.

Sofa beds come in all shapes and sizes, including this sleek leather version with deep seating, wooden slats and a five-inch deep, fully sprung mattress. Sloane three-seater sofa bed in Old English Hazel, £1,861.50, Darlings of Chelsea. With deep-button detailing and a comfortably deep seat, this sofa bed would be a handsome addition to a sitting room as well as a great bed for last-minute guests. Truffle sofa bed, from £1,845, Loaf.


With an armless frame, this streamlined, one-seater sofa bed makes the most of small spaces – and modules could always be added at a later date to create a larger seating area. The Minety one-seater sofa bed in Shadow, £930, Willow & Hall.

The legs slide out, the cushion unfolds and voila! Kipster daybed, £1,195, Loaf.

A tempting spot for an afternoon nap, this refined and elegant daybed offers a touch of modern minimalism. Mabel daybed, from £625, sofa.com.

Get some bling on with this affordable, modern sofa bed with a sprung foam seat and back upholstered in hard-wearing PU leather. Vinci sofa bed in gold, £259, made.com.

All styles of curtains, blinds, pelmets etc. with a wide range of fabric, poles and accessories to choose from.

Or visit our shop & showroom in Chapel Hay Lane, Prospect House, Church Road, Churchdown, GL3 2ES

www.chosencurtains.co.uk sales@chosencurtains.co.uk Page 21


WINTER DIARY

Your useful guide to local events in and around the area CHRISTMAS MARKET 1 - 16 Dec, 10 - 5.30pm, Taurus Crafts, Lydney 30+ independent traders. Free entry & parking. CHRISTMAS AT PERRYGROVE 8, 9, 15, 16, 22-24 Dec, 10am - 5pm, Perrygrove Railway, Coleford

Christmas, story, presents and train ride. Advance booking essential. www.perrygrove.co.uk

CHRISTMAS AT PUZZLEWOOD 8 - 24 Dec, Perrygrove Rd, Coleford, GL16 8QB Take a winter walk through the beautiful woods which will be decorated by artists in The 12 Days of Christmas. Normal admission prices. CHRISTMAS FAYRE 8 & 9 Dec, Hot Pot Pottery, Ross Rd, Coleford, GL16 7NS Pottery/local crafts on sale; paint your own pottery. Tel: 07974 983908 or 01594 837943. 22

SANTA SPECIALS 8 - 24 Dec, Dean Forest Railway, Norchard station Meet Santa on a steam train. Age-related present for every child. To book: www.deanforestrailway.co.uk

REGULAR EVENTS

ACTIVE BALANCE CLASSES Mondays, 10.30am 11.30am, Goode Courte, Lydney, GL15 5JP £3/ session. Healthy Lifestyles Team: 01594 812399

ACTIVE BALANCE & FALLS PREVENTION CLASSES. Fridays, Newent Memorial Hall Falls Prevention: 1pm 2pm. For those with early Dementia; call the Exercise Referral Team: 01594 812399. Active Balance: 2pm - 3pm. £3/class. Sarah Davies: 07914 538616.

COFFEE & CHAT Mondays, 11am - 12.30pm, Lydney Community Centre, Naas Lane, GL15 5AT. Tel. 01594 845704

COMMUNITY GET-TOGETHER Tuesdays, 3pm - 5pm, Sixteen Community Café, 16 Bank St, Coleford, GL16 8BA Food, fun & friendliness. Hot meal & good company. Transport can be arranged: Kate 01594 822073,

bestbutties@FVAF.org.uk.

COMMUNITY LITTER PICK Fridays, 10.30am, Meet at Coleford Drop In, The Main Place, Old Station Way, GL16 8RH Tel. 01594 834436

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE Every day, 10am - 5pm, Last entry: 4pm, Camp Mill, Soudley, GL14 2UB Galleries, outdoor attractions, trails & woodland playground. Tel. 01594 822170 FRIENDSHIP GROUP Meet one Thurs/month, 10.30am - 12pm, in a safe, quiet location in Coleford. A chance for female survivors of rape, sexual assault & abuse to meet informally. 01452 305421, info@ glosrasac.org.uk.

GENTLE COUNTRY WALKS 3rd Thurs/month, 10.30am, Orchard Trust Smallholding, Upper Stowfield, GL17 9PD Gentle exercise. Tea, coffee & biscuits. Fully accessible, plenty of benches. Phil or George: 01594 861359, learningcentre@orchardtrust.org.uk. HEARING-AID CLINICS 1st Tues/month, 2pm 4.30pm, Coleford Main Place, Old Station Way, GL16 8RH. FREE Hearingaid clinics for NHS hearing aid wearers. Call


local deaf charity GDA for appointment: 01452 372999.

KNIT & NATTER Thursdays, 7pm - 9pm, Mad Dog Designs at Taurus Crafts, Lydney Knitting or any other craft that can be transported easily! enquire@tauruscrafts.co.uk MEMORY CAFÉ Thursdays, 2 - 4pm, Café 31, Market St, Cinderford, GL14 2RT Dementia-friendly activities & events. For people living with dementia or anyone who has memory difficulties, carers, family members and friends. Tel. 01594 822599 MEND AND REPAIR CAFÉ 2nd Sat/month, 11am 1.30pm, Community

Centre, Yorkley. No need to throw away your broken items. Bring them to the skilled repairers – furniture, toys, tools, electronics, house-hold appliances, clothing, textiles and more. Repairs are free (some charges for parts), donations welcome. Tel. 01594 562396 PERRYGROVE RAILWAY Open every weekend all year round & daily during local school holidays, Perrygrove Rd, Coleford, GL16 8QB. 01594 834991 or www.perrygrove.co.uk

SPACE TO DANCE Fridays, 1.30pm - 3pm, Yorkley Community Centre Dance in a safe space to whatever music you like/ BYO. £3 or whatever you can

afford. Vlasta 01594 564654/ Richard 07946 295009 or 01594 837874.

LOCAL MARKETS

COLEFORD COUNTRY MARKET. Fridays, 9.30am - 12pm, beside the Clock Tower in Coleford; Saturdays, 10am - 12pm, Mushet Walk, near the Coop. Home-baked cakes & pastries, home-produced preserves & honey, handmade crafts, homegrown seasonal fruit, vegetables & plants. FARMERS MARKET 1st Sat/month, 9.30am 1pm, The Pavilion, St. Briavels. Produce, patisserie, fish, pies, etc.

10% DISC OUNT WITH THIS ADVERT

from

£26.25 + VAT

£94.68 + VAT

from

£28.50 + VAT

£27.00 + VAT

£38.75 + VAT

£38.50 + VAT

Page 23


LOCAL CLUBS & CLASSES To add your club or class to this section email Anne@lovelocalmagazines.co.uk WALKING FOR HEALTH 16 free, regular walks (10 mins - 1h) for all abilities. No need to book. Refreshments & chat. www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/ forest-dean-walking-for-health or 01594 727014.

BLAKENEY

BLAKENEY HILL GROWERS Community smallholding; goats, chickens, bees, vegetable garden. New members of all ages very welcome. Pauline: 01594 510692. blakeneyhillgrowers.org.uk

BREAM

BREAM FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE Mondays, 2pm - 4pm, Bream Community Centre Lonely & in need of friendship? Meet like-minded people. Tea & biscuits, Bingo, table top sales, mature Isometrics & monthly trips out. Mrs Selway 01594 564443. BREAM GARDENING SOCIETY 2nd Tues/month, 7.30pm, West Dean Centre Indoor meetings & summer garden trips. Jennifer Lang: 01594 719314.

BREAM SILVER BAND/ TRAINING BAND Rehearses Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Bandroom, Sun Tump Secretary: 01594 564382 Training Band: 01594 860181 www.breamband.com 24

BREAM RUGBY SOCIAL CLUB Tel: 01594 562320 BREAM SPORTS CLUB Tel: 01594 563094

FOREST OF DEAN MALE VOICE CHOIR Practices Monday & Friday evenings, West Dean Centre No auditions, free taster sessions. The choir raises money for charitable causes. Jan Hart: 01594 542671

PARKINSON’S GROUP 1st Wed/month, 2pm 3.30pm, West Dean Centre Information, friendship & support for people with Parkinson's, their families & carers. Regular events & social activities. Jane Henderson: 0344 225 3694, jhenderson@parkinsons.org.uk.

BROADWELL

FIBRO & CHRONIC PAIN WARRIORS Last Wed/month, 11am 1pm, Forest of Dean Salvation Army, 43 North Rd, GL16 7BX Peer-led support group for anyone with Fibromyalgia or chronic pain. Refreshments provided. Emma: ffcpw1@ gmail.com, 07432 069617.

MAHJONG Every Wed, 7-10pm, Church of Good Shepherd Already play or want to learn this fascinating & challenging Chinese game? Jean Martell: 01594 564359 / 07775 754147,

artmerl@btinternet.com

CINDERFORD

BLIPS Fortnightly Mondays, 10am - 12pm, Crawshay Place For blind & partially sighted people. Gentle armchair exercises, quizzes, games & the occasional meal. Transport provided (£5) within the Forest. Helen Nash: 01594 543890 CINDERFORD BAND Ian Tomlins: 01452 723518, Cinderfordband03@aol.com. www.cinderfordbrassband. co.uk

CINDERFORD BOWLING CLUB. Steam Mills Recreation Ground, Gl14 3JD Tel: 01594 542004 FOUND IN THE FOREST YOUTH THEATRE Sundays, 12 - 1.30pm (ages 7-10), 2 - 3.30pm (ages 11-16), Artspace Fun, practical drama group for ages 7-16. Each term ends with a performance. Jamie@actorworkshop.co.uk or 07712 481991.

HANOVER COURT ACTIVITIES Hanover Court, GL14 2LQ Tues, 3 - 4pm: Songs of Praise; Wed, 10.30 - 11.30am: Tai Chi; Wed, 3 - 4pm: Quiet Corner Book Reading; Thurs, 11am - 12pm: Exercises with Sue; Last Fri/month, 3 - 5pm: Social Musical Afternoon. Celia Large: 01594 824276.


SOLDIERS & SAILORS CLUB 1 Commercial Street Tel: 01594 822142 CINDERFORD YMCA Tel: 01594 823388

COALWAY

COALWAY VOICES Mondays, 7.15 - 9pm, Coalway Methodist Chuch For ladies or girls aged 16 or over. Ruth MacDonald: 01594 833164, or Janet Kear: 01594 833722.

COALWAY LADIES GROUP 2nd Wed/month, 7pm, Pisgah Hall, Old Rd, GL16 7JT Varied programme of speakers. For ladies, 16+. Anne: 01594 834402

COLEFORD

ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY SINGING FOR THE BRAIN 1st & 3rd Mon/month, 11am - 12.30pm, The Main Place, Old Station Way Jane or Rachel: 01452 525222

ANGUS BUCHANAN V.C. OVER 50S WALKING FOOTBALL Sundays, 3pm, The Angus Buchanan Recreation Ground, Victoria Rd, GL16 8DS Male & female players welcome. Facebook: Angus Buchanan Rec Walking Football COLEFORD BOWLS CLUB The Angus Buchanan Recreation Ground Tel: 01594 839417

COLEFORD CHESS CLUB Every Tues, 5pm - 7pm, The Main Place, Coleford Library Free 'just for fun' club. Novices to experienced league players.

COLEFORD HARD OF HEARING CLUB 2nd & 4th Mon/month, 10am - 12pm, St. Margaret Mary Church Hall, High Nash Ample parking. Useful information, help & fun for those with hearing impairment. Volunteers welcome. Elaine: 07971 303958. COLEFORD PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUB 17 Cinder Hill, GL16 8HJ For all ages, abilities & photographic interests. Tel: 01594 839118

MAGGIE'S SUPPORT GROUP 1st & 3rd Tues/month, The Main Place, Coleford Living with or supporting someone with cancer? We offer practical & emotional support and a wide range of activities - all free of charge. Contact: Cheltenham@ maggiescentres.org

DRYBROOK

THE A. W. PARKER BAND Tel: 01594 543707 www.drybrookband.co.uk

DRYBROOK & DISTRICT LADIES CHOIR Wednesdays, 7 - 9pm, Drybrook Bandroom. For ladies & girls (16 +) with the ability to sing in tune. Tel: 01594 542414. www.ddlc.org.uk

DRYBROOK & DISTRICT MALE VOICE CHOIR Wednesdays, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, Hawthorns Rd, GL17 9BX For boys & men who enjoy singing. Tel: 01594 836400 DRYBROOK MEMORIAL HALL & SOCIAL CLUB Tel: 01594 543794

FOREST SINGERS Mondays, 7.30pm - 9.15pm, Hawthorns Rd, GL17 9BX Choir for all ages & abilities. No need to be able to read music. Anita: 07565 909492.

MODEL RAILWAY CLUB Mondays & Fridays, 7-10pm (except Xmas & Easter), Parish Room, United Reformed Church, GL17 9JE Facilities include test tracks in N, OO & O gauges, areas for browsing the library collection or constructing models & kits. Free membership, tea/coffee. www.fodmrc.co.uk

FORTHHAMPTON

FORTHHAMPTON WI Home-cooked lunches, coffees & teas in the Village Hall. Diana Carter: 01452 780 571/Pauline Coleman: 01684 297 276.

LYDNEY

DEAN FOREST RAILWAY SOCIETY Open daily (except Xmas & Boxing Day), Norchard Railway Station, Nr Lydney Volunteers wanted. See website/Facebook or contact volunteering@deanforestrailway. co.uk. Tel: 01594 845840 DEAN WRITERS CIRCLE 1st Wed/month, 7.30pm, Lydney Library (downstairs) 3rd Wed/month, 7.30pm, The Fountain Inn, Parkend Bring a piece of writing or a poem to read to the group. Writing exercises, competitions and study sessions. Membership: £15/yr; small charge for visitors. Felicity Edwards 07447 977424.

Page 25


LOCAL CLUBS & CLASSES continued FOREST TREBLEMAKERS

(formerly Forest of Dean Singing Club)

Mondays (term time), 7.30 9.30pm, Lydney Cricket Club No auditions, no need to read music or sing on your own; wide range of abilities, ages and musical styles. Theresa. hucks@yahoo.co.uk.

FOREST OF DEAN CAMERA CLUB Mondays, 7.30pm (open from 7pm), Viney St Swithins Sports & Social Club, nr Lydney. Talks, advice, Q & A sessions & competitions. www. forestofdeancameraclub.co.uk FOREST OF DEAN U3A 3rd Thurs/month, 1.45pm, Lydney Town Hall 30 activities per month for the over 50s. Annual membership fee: £10. www.u3asites.org.uk

LYDNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Naas Lane, GL15 5AT Accessible & dementia-friendly building with 3 rooms & hall to hire; Wi-Fi. Various classes available. 01594845704 / 07504565153. www.lydney communitycentre.co.uk LYDNEY & DISTRICT TWINNING ASSOCIATION We are twinned with Brehal (Normandy). Social events & exchange visits. Learn & enjoy all things French. www.lydneytwinning.org.uk

LYDNEY & SEVERNSIDE FLOWER CLUB 2nd Mon/month; 6.30pm for 7.15pm start, Lydney Town Hall Watch professional demonstrators create stunning floral 26

displays. Tea, coffee & biscuits. Jackie: 01594 860578. LYDNEY TENNIS CLUB Hams Rd. 4 floodlit courts. Coaching for all ages. Cath Hutchinson: 01594 562951. www.lydneytennisclub.net

LYDNEY TRAINING BAND Mondays, 6.30 -7.30pm, Bandroom, Swan Rd, GL15 5RU For all ages. Training given. £1/week for tuition & instrument. Kerry Ford: 01594 530886. Senior Band Fridays, 7.30- 9.30pm. PARKEND WORKING MEN’S CLUB. Lion Row, Parkend, GL15 4JZ Tel: 01594 562566

SEA CADETS Parade Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 - 9.15pm. Ages 10-18. Rowing, kayaking, canoeing, D of E, life skills. forestofdeanscc@ btinternet.com; www.seacadets.org/forestofdean.

SPORTS CLUBS IN LYDNEY LYDNEY BOWLING CLUB Bathurst Park. Tel: 01594 842962 LYDNEY CRICKET CLUB The Pavilion Recreation Ground, Swan Rd. Tel: 01594 842765 LYDNEY GOLF CLUB Naas Lane, GL15 4ES Tel: 01594 842775

LYDNEY TOWN A.F.C Recreation Ground, Swan Rd. Tel: 01594 844523

LYDNEY RFC Regents Holme, Regent St

Tel: 01594 842479

LYDNEY YACHT CLUB The Old Shipyard House, Harbour Rd, GL15 4ER Tel: 01594 842573

MITCHELDEAN

FOREST OF D. CHESS CLUB Mondays (except Public Holidays), 7 - 9.30pm, Mitcheldean Library Competes in Division 2 of North Glos Chess League; internal tournaments. Training sessions, simultaneous displays & social matches. Ray Francis: 07815597714. www.fodcc.org.uk FOREST OF D. MOTORCYCLE CLUB At least 1x/month on a Tues, 12 Vantage Point Business Village. Family-oriented. From Vintage to Modern, from Club Rallies to the Isle of Man TT. Mike Hook: 07815571350 or spikehook@3rossroad. freeserve.co.uk.

FOREST OF DEAN RADIOCONTROLLED CAR CLUB Tuesdays, 6.30 - 10pm; Sundays 11am - 3pm (open pay & play session), Unit F, Building 3, Northern Way, Vantage Point Business Village Racing 1/10th and 1/12th electric rc cars. Mark Raddenbury: 07468 412624, mark@raddenbury.com. www.forestraceway.co.uk MITCHELDEAN FOLK CLUB 2nd Thurs/month, 8pm, The White Horse

NEWENT

NEWENT BRIDGE CLUB Wed, 7pm start & Fri, 7.15pm


start, Sixth Form Centre, Newent Community School Duplicate bridge; host on Fridays, so no partner needed. www.bridgewebs.com/newent NEWENT CAMERA CLUB Tuesdays, 7.45pm start (ends 10pm), Newent Library tonycook01@gmail.com or www.newentdcc.com.

NEWENT WALKING GROUP Meets 2x/month on a Sun Informal full or half day walks, 4 - 10 miles, often with picnic or pub break. Alison Jones: 01531 820151

NEWNHAM

CLAY HILL POTTERS www.clayhillpotters.co.uk

THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB Fortnightly, Armoury Hall Social club for over 50s. Meet friends & chat over a cuppa. Tel: 01594 516545

NEWNHAM ART GROUP Tuesdays, 10am - 12pm (Xmas, Easter & Summer break), Armoury Hall Amateur artists who draw, paint & exchange tips, advice & ideas. £2 for room & refreshments. 01594 516450 or 01594 516007.

NEWNHAM CLUB Social & sports club. Activities incl. skittles, darts, snooker & pool. Garden with BBQ & sports tv area. Bar & function room. Tel: 01594 516379 NEWNHAM GARDEN CLUB 3rd Mon/month, 7.30pm, Armoury Hall. Varied programme: talks, trips, themed evenings, Xmas Party & more. Tel: 01594 516165

NEWNHAM PLAYERS New members for all aspects of drama welcome. www. newnhamonsevern.co.uk

SEVERN DEAN LIONS CLUB 1st Mon/month, The Club We raise money for local good causes/people in need. New members needed. Hugh Gray-Wallis: 0845 833 5836

PILLOWELL

PILLOWELL LADIES WED. GROUP (YORKLEY) 3rd Wed/month, 7.30pm, Pillowell Methodist Chapel Interesting speakers, demonstrations and outings. Judith Brown: 01594 562131

PILLOWELL SILVER BAND Rehearsals: Tuesday, 7.30pm - 9.30pm; Friday, 7 - 9pm. M.D. Ian Whitburn: 07894 998225. New players welcome. PILLOWELL SINGERS Wednedays, 7 - 8.30pm, Pillowell Methodist Church For ladies. Tel. 01594 562 485

RUSPIDGE

RUSP. GARDENING CLUB 2nd Wed/month, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start, Ruspidge

Memorial Hall, GL14 3AE Talks from horticultural professionals & amateur gardeners. Refreshments, raffle, plant sales, summer trips. Chair: 01594 781 449. ruspidgegardeningclub.net

WOOLASTON

SILVER STEPS ACTIVE BALANCE GROUP Mondays from 10.30am, Woolaston Memorial Hall, Swains Field, GL15 6SU ‘Drop in' class, referral not needed. For those who are concerned about falling or want to be more active. £3/

session. Gary: 01594 812399.

THE SPRINGFIELD SINGERS Tuesdays, 7.45pm - 9.30pm, Woolaston Primary School £15/month. Secretary Judith James: 01594 840750. Chairman Maureen Howard: 01594 719636. www.thespring fieldsingers.co.uk WOOLA. MEMORY GROUP Thurs afternoons, Woolaston Memorial Hall. Helps you remember the good old days; teaches you ways to share experiences. Carers welcome. Liz: 01291 620306.

Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF) is the support agency for voluntary and community groups in the Forest of Dean. A database of groups is kept, so if you are looking for an activity or club get in touch.

We are also the local volunteer centre. Have a look at www.fvaf.org.uk, email help4groups @fvaf.org.uk or phone 01594 822073.

Page 27


Gardening

Get Fit And Garden!

up heavier clay soils. Any exposed grubs and other soil pests will feed the birds and minimise pest problems next year. Get some digging done if the soil is not too wet, but limber up first. Keeping your back straight and your knees bent helps to reduce the risk of injury. Winter is a good time to prune apple and pear trees. Use sharp secateurs to remove dead, dying and diseased branches, as well as branches causing the tree’s crown to be too congested.

Re-set any loose brick or similar edging around paths, beds or steps, and replace any damaged stones, pavers or bricks. Carefully clear debris, dead foliage and stems from flower beds, but leave some dry foliage and stems over the bases or crowns of plants, especially those of the more tender perennials such as penstemons.

There’s nothing like some time in the garden to clear your head and get the blood moving. Fresh, cool air will wake you up and get you thinking positively, and your garden will benefit.

Removing damp, clogged up leaves from the lawn with a spring-tined rake will prevent patches of faded grass and is good for upper arm muscles! Collect and bag up the leaves and rot them down to make leaf mould, a brilliant and free soil conditioner. If the soil in cleared areas is sufficiently dry, fork it over to help the frosts break 28

Smooth, hard garden surfaces such as patios, paths and steps become dangerously slippery if algae and debris build up on them over the winter, especially when wet. A stiff brush or yard broom and plenty of elbow grease is the best solution I know.

Wet and very windy weather can cause shrubs and trees to become loosened in the soil, so re-firm the soil around the root area and make sure the plant is still in the soil at the right level.

You’re bound to feel better after all that air and exercise, so reward yourself with a cuppa and admire your handiwork before heading inside for a nice hot bath! Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreen wood.com and you’ll find some great


gardening items and perfect Christmas gifts for gardeners: a ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ gift card (great vegetable plants and weekly advice from Pippa), stylish cloches, the fantastic SpeedHoe, raised bed kits, gardening tools, Grower Frames, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a gardening talk at your gardening club? Written by Pippa Greenwood

Limber Up!

After too much time inside, and in cold weather, take care before you spring into action:

• Wear plenty of clothing when you go outside and remove layers gradually as you warm up. • Limber up gently to slowly loosen up your arms, legs and back. • Don’t do any single task for too long – rotate the jobs for perhaps ten minutes at a time, so you don’t put any one area of your body under too much strain. • Give yourself regular, short breaks and don’t forget to drink enough. • Bend your knees when lifting and if in doubt call on a friend, relative or neighbour to give you a hand.

Christmas Postal Dates LAST LAST RECOMMENDED SERVICE RECOMMENDED SERVICE POSTING DATES International Standard & International Tracking & Signature Services POSTING DATES Tuesday 4th December Friday 7th December

Africa, Middle East Cyprus, Malta, Asia, Far East, Eastern Europe (except Poland, Czech Republic & Slovakia) Saturday 8th December Caribbean, Central & South America Monday 10th December Australia, Greece, Turkey, New Zealand Friday 14th December Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Poland, USA Saturday 15th December Finland, Sweden Monday 17th December

Austria, Denmark, Germany, Iceland, Norway, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland

Tuesday 18th December

Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg

UK Inland Services Tuesday 18th December

2nd Class & Royal Mail Signed For® 2nd Class

Thursday 20th December

1st Class & Royal Mail Signed For® 1st Class

Saturday 22nd December

Special Delivery Guaranteed®

Page 29


Advertisers index AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS Smiths of Newent

BUILDING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

High Hopes Partnership BUILDING SUPPLIES Hale & Co BUSINESS

17

31 5

Compton G. Business Park 19 CARDS

The Card Shop

CARING SERVICES Sheppard House

CARPETS & FLOORING Blueboy Carpets

CHRISTMAS TREES

The Natural Christmas

5 7 13

Tree Co.

15

Billy Russell Floor Care

15

CLEANING

CLUBS, CHARITIES & GROUPS

The Aston Project

6

New Start Cat Rescue 19 & 31 CURTAINS & BLINDS Chosen Curtains

21

FURNITURE

Sheppard House

7

Sue Ryder

19

GARDEN CENTRES

Coinros Park Garden Centre 15 GARDEN SERVICES Clive Pardoe

The Garden Lady

9 8

Green Moon Landscapes

16

Cambridge Weight Plan

13

Chosen Curtains

21

White Knight Group

31

HEALTH

INTERIOR DESIGN

LEGAL & FINANCIAL OIL

Estuary Oils

PAVING, DRIVEWAYS

RECYCLING

Sheppard House

7

ROOFING

EL Roofing

16

SHOPPING

Renaissance

3

STORAGE

Compton G. Business Park 19 VETS & PET SERVICES Bilbo's Pet Spa Vine Tree Vets

7

10

WINDOWS, DOOR

& CONSERVATORIES Shane Howells

2

13

& TARMAC SPECIALISTS Resin Drives

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PLANT HIRE

Ermin Plant Hire

PLUMBING, HEATING & BOILER SERVICES BroadOak Services

23

9

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Glos Directories does not officially endorse any advertising/editorial material included within the publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systen or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise - without the prior consent of the publisher. The use of this magazine for canvassing or direct marketing is strictly prohibited.

YO U R F R E E LO C A L CO M M U

Newent N I T Y M AG AZI

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Dean Forest of U L CO M M E E LO C A YO U R F R

Decemb

NE M AG A Z I

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SHORT STOR

Christmas

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Caldicot: 01291887 973 Cardiff: 02920Lubricants Supplier 825 130 & 01594 Fuels Dean: of

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926 94 836 015lueboyc arpetsltd.co.uk www.b

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CARPETS,

ROTARY

HOM E | GAR

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garden!

Christmas

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G

garden!

Santa to visit

Carol

GARDENIN

er 2018

Carol

GARDENIN

Get fit and

SHORT STOR

Decemb

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422 656

Caldicot: 01291887 973 130 Cardiff: 02920 01594 825 Forest of Dean:

Head Office:

Way NP26 5PW Unit 57D Symondscliffe Ind Est, Caldicot, Severn Bridge

To include your business in the January issue call 01242 388 368 or email Lorraine@lovelocalmagazine.co.uk. We publish 6 magazines in the Gloucestershire area.


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