Tewkesbury YO U R F R E E LO C A L COMMUNIT Y MAGAZINE
December 2019
SHORT STORY
The Christmas Spirit HISTORY
Christmas Traditions RECIPE
Cranberry, Orange & Nut Loaf
HOME | GARDEN | LEISURE | COMMUNITY NEWS
Remember loved ones at Sue Ryder's ‘Lights of Love’ People across Gloucestershire are invited to celebrate the lives of loved ones at a special festive remembrance service held at St Matthew's Church (44 Clarence Street, Cheltenham) at 6.30pm on 11th December. Featuring Christmas carols, choir performances and readings alongside a time for remembrance and reflection, the service will be followed by festive refreshments. The gathering gives the opportunity to celebrate cherished memories of loved ones, and guests are invited to write a dedication on a special candle which will be displayed during the event. The event is free to attend and open to all with all donations helping Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice.
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Charity Begins at Home “Money can’t buy happiness” the saying goes, but there is a definite exception: giving your money away.
research type organisation or supporting children’s development.
Numerous studies have shown that giving money to others or donating to charity will put a much bigger smile on your face than spending on yourself, meaning we are being both selfish and selfless by giving to others. Undoubtedly as we approach the annual festive season, the charities are hoping that feeling of bonhomie extends to setting up a regular donation to their causes. But how to choose who to donate to? One approach is to “start with the end." What is the change in the world that you are hoping to make? That thought works well when you are donating to a medical
Alternatively, you could concentrate on supporting local charities and projects or urgent causes (e.g. disaster relief). There are many ways to go about this... It’s not always cold, hard cash that has to be given away though; your time is just as precious to so many good causes. As Winston Churchill once aptly stated: We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give. I shall bear that in mind when wishing you a Happy Christmas!
Anne x
T: 01242 388 366 | E: Anne@lovelocalmagazines.co.uk
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Traditional Christmas Style Our top tips for festive decorating to create a warm and welcoming look. A wreath on the front door A decorative essential for the Christmas season, a front-door wreath provides a wonderful festive welcome for visitors. There is an enormous variety of readymade wreaths to choose from: classic or contemporary, heart-shaped or circular, small or large, utterly simple or lavish and complex… or why not make your own, using leaves, flowers and seed heads from the garden? An impressive tree Britain’s most popular Christmas tree is the Nordmann fir, which will stay fresh for ages provided it gets enough water. The Norway spruce is less expensive, but tends to drop needles unless watered frequently. When buying a cut tree, ask the seller to saw half an inch off the bottom of the trunk to help it absorb water. Before decorating, trim away any low-down or interior branches that you don’t need, and position your tree away from sunny windows and radiators. Wind with an even distribution of lights and garlands (use a stepladder if necessary, and stand back regularly to assess), then add baubles and other ornaments, making sure to hang some in the centre of branches as well as at the tips, to create a sense of depth and interest. Mantelpieces, balustrades and pictures Drape generous armfuls of fir, ivy, holly and lush green foliage along mantelpieces and wind among balustrades – you could even add them along the tops of pictures. Where appropriate, add pine cones, baubles, strings of tiny LED lights and maybe some small, 6
These metallic Christmas stockings feature a Moroccaninspired design in gold foil. They are available in white or grey and can be personalised. Gold metallic Moroccan-print Christmas stockings, £59 each, Penelope Hope: 01481 721 410; www.penelopehope.com.
battery-operated candles for a gorgeous, glowing display. Candles, candles everywhere Nothing says Christmas like warm, flickering candlelight, but keep them away from decorations and extinguish them before going to bed or leaving the house. Better still, use battery-operated LED candles in the form of tea lights, pillars or bridge decorations. Piles of presents Presents under the tree look so much better when colour-coordinated and criss-crossed
with ribbons and bows. Inexpensive paper – even brown paper or newsprint – looks lovely if adorned with a home-made label, and avoiding metallic papers, which can’t be recycled, is good for the planet, too. You could even consider wrapping in fabric or employing a reusable box. For a finishing touch, add a tiny pine cone, small bauble or home-made iced biscuit. Setting the table Laying the table can be a pleasing ritual that results in an eye-catching display. Start by setting out a special runner and your best crockery, perhaps with plates that layer in colour or that include edgings of gold. Carefully position glassware and cutlery, and finish with greenery, pine cones, candles, baubles and other small-scale decorations, plus hand-written place settings. Hang up some stockings Children especially love to hang a stocking
Before
for Santa, but there’s no reason why adults can’t get in on the act, too – the effect is so charming, after all. If you don’t have a handy mantelpiece, try a peg rail, branch, coat hooks, along the banisters or specially bought stocking hooks. Arrangements of cards Christmas cards are a lovely way to decorate your home. Display them in neat rows on a shelf or mantelpiece, tucked into mirrors and picture frames, stapled to ribbons and hung alongside the staircase (weighted with a bauble or pine cone) or from rows of string using mini wooden pegs. Decorative displays Use illuminated ornaments or a few poinsettias in pots, some bowls of clove-studded oranges and a few baubles or fairy lights in a glass bowl or vase for a sparkly effect. By Katherine Sorrell
After
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Tewkesbury Big Weekend launches ‘Battle of the Bands’
Could you help a child at a local primary school discover the magic of reading? National charity, Coram Beanstalk, is seeking volunteers in the local area to become reading helpers. You’ll help a child at a local primary school on a one-to-one basis by reading together, talking and making books fun to help transform their reading ability and confidence. Training, ongoing support and resources are provided.
In a bid to bring more live music to Tewkesbury, the organisers of the Tewkesbury Big Weekend have launched an exciting new music competition. Working in collaboration with the Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, they are offering one talented band the opportunity of a lifetime: A 45-minute set at the popular Lakesfest festival in August 2020, plus a professional photoshoot and a £250 cash prize! To enter the 'Battle of the Bands', music groups are invited to submit a video by 31st January. The top six bands shortlisted will be invited to perform a 15-minute set on 7th March at the Roses Theatre. Application forms can be found at www.rosestheatre.org. The bands will be judged by a panel of industry professionals and the overall winner will be announced on the night. It will be a fun evening with wonderful music and great entertainment. Limited tickets are available now from The Roses' website for only £8. For more information on the 2020 Tewkesbury Big Weekend or to get involved, find the event on Facebook or email carolbigweekend@outlook.com. 8
Volunteer reading helpers are needed for schools in your local area. Apply today at www.corambeanstalk.org.uk, call 020 7729 4087 or email info@corambeanstalk.org.uk
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The Christmas spirit
˜ A short story written by local writer Geraldine Faulkner ˜ Henry was digging up some leeks. He hummed away happily to himself as he slipped his garden fork under each plant and carefully pulled them up by the leaves. He could already taste his wife Annie’s homemade leek and potato soup and it was making his mouth water. He picked up the leeks, took them to the outside tap and washed off the worst of the mud before taking them into the kitchen. Annie was on the phone. “Keep us informed, won’t you?” she said before ending the conversation. “That was Alice, our neighbour. She was calling from A&E because Tom has broken his leg,” explained Annie while filling the kettle to make them a brew. “I hope she doesn’t expect me to take their dratted dog, Caspar, for a walk every day,” replied Henry ungraciously. 10
“Now that’s not very kind,” said Annie reaching up for the biscuit tin. Henry mumbled an apology through a mouthful of Hobnobs and tea. In the end, he volunteered to take Caspar for a walk every morning without any prompting from Annie. Although he wouldn’t admit it, he was growing fond of the cheerful little animal and would chat to him on their walks. “It will be Christmas soon,” he told Caspar one morning. Caspar cocked an ear as he knew a reaction was expected. “This year my granddaughter, Rosie, and her parents are coming to us. We usually wait until Rosie is there before we decorate the Christmas tree. She loves to put out a biscuit for Santa and carrots for the reindeer on Christmas Eve.” Caspar recognised the word ‘biscuit’ and looked up hopefully at Henry who
usually had a dog biscuit in his pocket. However, Henry was destined to suffer disappointment. A week before Christmas, their daughter rang to say Rosie had got chickenpox. “She’s got a high temperature and has been complaining of aches and pains,” explained Rosie’s mum. “As of this morning, she is covered in red spots. We have to keep her at home until the spots have crusted over which can take between five to seven days.” “Poor little mite,” sympathised Annie. “Tell her we’ll have a belated Christmas celebration once she’s better, and that her granddad and I will make sure it’s extra special.” When told the news, Henry was plunged into gloom.
“Christmas is not going to be Christmas without our Rosie,” he complained. “We’ve already got the turkey in the freezer and most of the trimmings. How are we going to eat all that food?” Annie had an idea. “Why don’t we invite Tom and Alice over for Christmas Day. They are going to be on their own and it will be lovely to have the company,” Henry pondered for a few moments. “The last time we had them over for a meal they beat us at Trivial Pursuit. It’s time for a return match,” he said while thinking gleefully: ‘That gives me five days to swot up on the questions.’ Perhaps Christmas wasn’t going to be such a washout after all.
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Pictograms AM
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PICTOGRAMS
2 words
5 words 15:50
QUIZ
3 words
CHRISTMAS PRESENTS
CHEAP HAT MAGIC DIRTY
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.
S I
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TARGET Excellent: 22 or more words Good: 19 words Fair: 17 words 12
SUDOKU
Puzzle Page
1. In a well known children’s story, who does Cindy-Lou Who catch stealing Christmas presents? 2. Launched in the run-up to Christmas in 1983, which toys were said to have been born at Babyland General Hospital? 3. In the 2013 TV advert for John Lewis, what did the hare get the bear as a Christmas present? 4. At the end of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, what does Scrooge arrange to be sent anonymously to the Cratchit family? 5. In the film Gremlins, what name does Billy give to the Mogwai he receives as a Christmas present? 6. On the TV show South Park, who brings presents to children whose diets have been high in fibre? 7. “I don’t care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree” is a line from which well known Christmas song? 8. In the 1996 film Jingle All the Way, what is the name of the toy that Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character is desperately trying to get for his son as a Christmas present? 9. Which 1997 novel by Terry Pratchett features a Santa Claus-like title character who gives presents to children on December 32nd? 10. What is the final item that the singer asks Santa for in the song Santa Baby? Answers: p. 19
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Cranberry, Orange & Nut Loaf This simple cake makes a delicious alternative to a classic rich fruit Christmas cake. It will keep un-iced in an airtight container for a few days. Add the icing and fresh cranberry topping on the day of serving.
Ready in 1 hour 45 minutes, plus cooling | Serves 8-10
Ingredients
175g unsalted butter, softened 175g golden caster sugar 225g self-raising flour 2 tsp ground mixed spice ½ tsp baking powder 3 large eggs 75g sweetened dried cranberries 50g walnuts, chopped 50g hazelnuts, chopped Zest of 1 orange 1 tbsp orange juice
TIP
FROSTING Half of a 400g tub ready-made royal icing 2 tsp snowflake sugar sprinkles 75g fresh cranberries Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate (optional)
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Preheat the oven to 170C, 150C fan, gas mark 3. Grease a 900g loaf tin and line the base and up two long sides of the tin with baking parchment. Place the butter, sugar, flour, spice, baking powder and eggs in a large bowl and beat with an electric whisk for 2-3 minutes until thoroughly combined. Fold in the dried cranberries, nuts and orange zest and juice.
Spoon the mixture into the tin and level the surface. Bake for 1hr-1 hr 15 minutes or until risen and golden and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool completely.
Spread the royal icing over the top of the cake. Scatter over the sugar sprinkles and fresh cranberries, plus the fresh mint sprigs if using. Leave in a cool place until set. Serve sliced.
Instead of the fresh cranberries you could scatter over more festive-themed sugar sprinkles and add a dusting of edible gold spray for a really sparkly finish.
Auction Anecdote Smiths’ November antique sale turned out to be a very hectic day with a record number of commission bids coming in at the last minute. It took two staff working flat out for over an hour, just to get them all on the sale book before the sale started! Many of these bids were on the jewellery, gold and silver - my favourite section of the auction to sell on the rostrum, and this sale was certainly pair of mid-19th century no exception. However, This diamond earrings made £740 with nearly four hundred lots to get through it became quite exhausting by the end, with bids flying in from all directions! Almost all of the antique and modern jewellery, as well as much of the costume jewellery, found eager buyers. There was such strong bidding throughout, that I almost began to find myself wishing they would all just stop... of course, I don’t really mean that! It was a real pleasure selling at such an exhilarating pace, as I swapped on and off the rostrum with my colleague until gone 7pm in the evening. Prices remained pretty buoyant throughout the day, however there was a little surprise in store, when a box of pewter estimated at £10-30 made £1,220! It seems an early and rather battered pewter tankard had been spotted online by several eagle-eyed specialists, who I am yet to quiz as to what exactly made this very ordinary-looking item quite so special. Smiths’ forthcoming antiques and collectables sales will take place on 6th December (with a special section for antique toys) and 24th January (with a specialist coin section). Entries are invited on the 10th, 12th and 17th December, and on the 2nd and 7th January 2020 between 10am and 3pm. For further details, please call 01531 821776 or visit www.smithsnewentauctions.co.uk. - Written by Rita Kearsey, Manager of Smiths Auction Room at Newent
Monthly Sales of Antiques & Collectables 6th December and 24th January includes Coins, Silver, Gold, Jewellery, Ceramics, Glass, Furniture, Pictures & Collectables
Viewing Day prior 10am - 7pm and morning of sale Fully illustrated catalogues available online
Nelson gold proof crown set Sold £2,220
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Entries Invited 10th, 12th & 17th Dec & 2nd & 7th Jan
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Christmas Traditions
History Article by Catherine Rose Christmas seems to come around sooner each year but at one time, people would decorate their homes on Christmas Eve as it was considered unlucky to do so earlier. In 300AD, Pope Julius I decreed that Christ’s birthday was on 25th December. The Midwinter Solstice on 21st December was already a traditional pagan celebration so Pope Julius effectively combined both. During the Midwinter Solstice, homes would be decorated with evergreens, and a Yule Log – the first log of winter – would be ceremonially burnt on the night of the shortest day. This is the reason the word ‘yule’ relates to Christmas. Christians took holly as a symbol of Christ’s crown, the berries representing his blood. Mistletoe, which the Druids regarded as sacred because it effectively grows ‘in the air’, was also adopted by 16
Christianity, the white berries reflecting the purity of the Virgin. The Victorians set many of our modern Christmas traditions, such as cards and tinsel. During the festive season, mistletoe was hung in the entrance to the house as a sign of peace and goodwill. Because it is usual to greet people with a hug and a kiss when they arrive, ‘kissing under the mistletoe’ evolved into a custom by Victorian times. Christmas trees came over from Germany towards the end of the 1700s but were popularised by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Trees would be decorated with candles, strings of glass beads, real silver tinsel and candies, topped with an angel or star. Many of our Christmas customs originated in Europe. Gingerbread and beeswax Christmas ornaments were available
in markets across Europe 400 years ago. The advent calendar originated in Germany. Mince pies were invented in medieval times. Originally made with minced lamb and fat, dried fruit, peel and spices, there were 13 ingredients in total, representing the apostles. Although we have dropped the lamb, the term ‘mincemeat’ to describe the filling has endured. Turkeys were brought to Britain in 1526 and it is said that King Henry VIII was the first to eat a turkey for Christmas dinner. However, turkeys didn’t become traditional Christmas fayre until the 1950s. Father Christmas also has his origins in Europe. St Nicholas or ‘Sinterklaas’ (from which we derive Santa Claus) was a second-century saint known for giving gifts to the poor. His spirit was said to visit
children on the night of the 5th December. In Holland, wooden shoes or clogs would be left next to the hearth filled with an edible treat and straw for St Nicholas’ horse. In return, St Nicholas would leave a gift. As the custom spread across Europe, stockings were used instead of shoes. It is thought that Tom Smith, an English baker, invented the Christmas cracker by taking a sweet and a love motto and wrapping them in a strip of paper impregnated with a compound that ‘cracked’ when opened. The first known Christmas card was made by Sir Henry Cole of The British Postal Service in 1843. It was the Victorians who first depicted Father Christmas in a red suit. Previously, the traditional colour for Saint Nicholas was green. Page 17
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PICTOGRAMS (p. 12): (1) Round Robin (2) One Step At A Time (3) Box Of Tricks QUIZ (p. 12): (1) The Grinch (in How The Grinch Stole Christmas) (2) Cabbage Patch Kids (3) An alarm clock (4) A turkey (5) Gizmo (6) Mr. Hankey the Christmas Poo (7) All I Want For Christmas Is You (by Mariah Carey) (8) Turbo-Man (9) The Hogfather (10) A ring
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GARDENING
Pruning Perfection Winter is perfect for pruning and cutting back woody plants (except if it is really icy or frosty), so get stuck in now that deciduous trees, shrubs, hedges and climbers are bare of leaves. Remember that for pruning to really benefit the plant, you need the right tools. For a small expanse of a hedge or a shrub that needs reshaping, a good, sharp pair of well-oiled shears should do the job. When cutting along a hedge top, a guideline – such as a taut string – will help you get a neat, level surface. For larger hedges a powered hedge cutter or hedge trimmer is preferable. Use ‘loppers’ for removal of stems at various heights and of varying thicknesses. These are available with various handle lengths (some have telescopic handles) so that you can reach higher. For relatively thick stems they are better than shears or secateurs 20
and allow for accurate cutting. Wear goggles and ideally protective headgear if you have to cut back branches above your head. Everybody needs a pair of goodquality sharp secateurs for pruning smaller woody stems. Always cut to an outward-facing bud (so that the new growth produced from that bud grows outwards). Secateurs are good for removing dead and dying stems, for formative pruning (to ensure the plant grows in the right direction), and for pruning to encourage flowering. A proper pruning saw is necessary for pruning out or tidying up larger branches on trees and shrubs and is perfect for fruit trees. Use a sawing action for best results and make the pruning cut a few millimetres or so away from the main stem from which the branch you are removing is joined.
A cut like this will heal quicker and is less prone to fungal rotting.
MORE PRUNING TIPS Always check the best pruning time for your plants – most hedges and many shrubs can be cut back now, but you may impact the flowering potential of others. Some trees, mainly those in the Prunus family – such as edible and ornamental cherries, plums, apricots, damsons, peaches and nectarines – are prone to the potentially fatal fungal ‘silver leaf’ infection, and should be pruned in the summer months. Pruning tools must be really sharp – blunt tools mean more effort and the risk of damage to the plant.
Create sloping cuts with secateurs, loppers and saws to prevent moisture accumulating (wetness encourages wood-rotting), and cut close to but not on top of a bud to allow new growth without dieback. Stand back from time to time when pruning, to let you see how you are affecting the overall shape of the plant. By Pippa Greenwood
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Page 21
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. 22
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The Gift of Reading
Whether you’re buying for someone else, looking for ideas for yourself, or plan to buy a book, read it and then wrap it up (we won’t tell), there’s plenty to choose from this month. Banksy You Are an Acceptable Level of Threat – Gary Shove & Patrick Potter This is so much more than just a coffee-table-worthy photography collection. For a start, it’s snort-out-loud funny. It’s been updated for 2019 and now spans Banky’s career, from the early 90s to 2018. There are anecdotes, irreverent biographical references and a few hundred photos to pore over. The Testaments – Margaret Atwood The Testaments picks up a few years after The Handmaid’s Tale ended. It weaves together the stories of three women – Daisy, born in Gilead but raised in Canada; Agnes Jemima, who’s desperate to escape the life set out for her by her stepparents; and the infamous Aunt Lydia. We won’t spoil it by giving away too much of the storyline, but it’s fair to say that it’s everything you hoped for and more. Perfect for fans of The Handmaid’s Tale (book or TV series). 24
The Corset – Laura Purcell Ruth Butterham is on trial for murdering her mistress. She confessed to the crime, but is she guilty or delusional? The more that wealthy prison visitor Dorothea Truelove hears of the beaten and broken Ruth’s tale, the less sure she is of who the real villain is in the story. Is Ruth the killer, is there another murderer at large or, as Ruth seems to believe, is the real culprit something far more unlikely? Gripping historical crime fiction sure to appeal to fans of Sarah Waters. Burn After Writing (Teen Edition) – Rhiannon Shove A journal with a difference, Burn after Writing invites teens to answer a series of questions to paint a picture of who they are, from ‘The song that makes me want to dance’ to ‘If I had a brainwashing machine, I would use it to’ and ‘Something I do that makes me feel proud of myself’. Perfect for 11 to 14 year olds. (The adult’s version is worth a look too.)
Little Robin Red Vest – Jan Fearnley This classic picture book is now 20 years old. It tells the story of how the robin got his red vest. (Spoiler: Father Christmas gave it to him as a reward for the robin giving away his own woolly vests.) A great story, beautiful illustrations and a feel-good message to top it all off. What more could a young child want from a book on Christmas morning? Veg – Jamie Oliver Buying for a vegetarian? Or just someone who enjoys healthy food that tastes great and doesn’t take hours to prepare? This book is for them. There are twists on new classics, such as Veggie Moussaka and Vegan Lasagne, and plenty of more inspired dishes that could soon become old favourites, like Masala Stuffed Peppers and Crispy Cauliflower Katsu. Some take a few minutes to make from scratch, while others are more suitable for chilled-out Sunday brunches or dinners with friends.
E R C KAN You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.
3 letters: 10 4 letters: 14 5 letters: 4 6 letters: 1
VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED Come and join our team for one afternoon a month at Tewkesbury Baptist Church where we organise a social club for elderly visually impaired residents.
FREE TRAINING PROVIDED Contact Volunteer Organiser Christopher Chapman for an informal chat on 01684 293527 or mail@cchapman.co.uk
Goodrum Carpets
A LOCAL BUSINESS EST. OVER 30 YEARS
Friendly Service & Professional Advice
Carpets • Carpet Tiles • Natural Flooring • Vinyls • Insurance Estimates • Remnants CALL NICK FOR A FREE ESTIMATE.
01242 251700 or 07967193966
Tewkesbury Exterior Painting All other aspects of paintwork carried out including: • Interior • Sash Windows • Doors • Masonry
Call us for a FREE no obligation quotation Tewkesbury Flat & Pitched Roofing • Flat Roofing • Tiling & Slating • Chimneys & Leadwork • EPDM • Fascias & Guttering
T: 01684 276639 M: 07706 096070 Page 25
3 Le ACE ARK ARE CAN CAR EAR ERA PAD KEN RAN
WINTER DIARY Your useful guide to local events in and around the area
ALADDIN PANTO Ongoing until 4 Jan, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Tickets: £15 - £25. T: 01684 295074. www.rosestheatre.org EVERGREEN! Tues - Sat until 21 Dec, Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter, Ledbury, HR8 1RD. Learn how to create and decorate Christmassy soft clay items under the expert tutelage of professional potters for £20pp or try the potter’s wheel (from £30pp). 1.5hr sessions commence at 10am, 11.30am and 2pm. Advance booking only: 01531 633886 or admin@ eastnorpottery.co.uk. GWSR SANTA SPECIALS Various dates in December, Toddington Station, GL54 5DT. Travel with Santa and his young elves on an early 1960's diesel rail car. Complimentary mince pies, hot/cold drinks, biscuits and fruit. Presents for the children. Free parking. Limited tickets (£16) available from www.gwsr.com. SPECTACLE OF LIGHT Ongoing until 30 Dec, Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe Explore a beautiful illuminated trail around Sudeley Castle’s stunning grounds. This year's theme: Peter Pan. Tickets available from www.sudeleycastle.co.uk (Adults £16.50, Children £9.90) 26
or on the day (Adults £20, Children £12). CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE 1, 4, 7, 13, 14, 15, 21 & 22 Dec, Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe. Performances by local choirs, singers, and dancers. Incl. with general admission. For full programme visit www.sudeleycastle.co.uk CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 3 Dec, 5 - 8pm, Winchcombe Late night shopping event with festive entertainment, over 50 market stalls and 70 beautifully lit Christmas trees. www.winchcombe.co.uk WREATH MAKING WORKSHOPS 3, 4, 10 & 11 Dec, 7 - 9pm, Watson Hall, Barton Street, Tewkesbury. Hosted by Bluebell Woods Florist. £45pp. T: 01684 276769 LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 5 December, Cheltenham Carol singers, choir and band performances. Cheltenham Borough Council’s car parks will be free from 1pm. Free bus travelling from both park-and-ride sites and on some Stagecoach services. EMMANUEL FESTIVAL OF DECORATED CHRISTMAS TREES. 6 - 8 Dec, Emmanuel Church, Cheltenham, GL53 7PJ. Friday, 6 - 9pm: With carols and mulled wine amongst
the trees. Sat, 11am 5pm. Cheltenham Children’s Choir at 11.15am and Carol Concert by Cotswold Male Voice Choir and Naunton Park Primary School at 7pm (Tickets £6, under 16’s free). Sunday: 10am: Morning Service; 2 - 6pm: Final chance to view the trees. Contact: Jackie Dunlop 01242 580731 or jac@dunlopost.co.uk WINTER CHARITY BALL 6 Dec, 7pm - 1am, Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham In aid of Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. Drinks reception, 3-course meal, exclusive auction and special Diamond Champagne Raffle. Individual tickets: £90. T: 01242 246162 or Leckhampton.events@ sueryder.org. CRACKING CHRISTMAS CONCERT. 6 Dec, 7.30pm, Boddington Manor, GL51 0TJ By Tewkesbury Chamber Choir. Admission: £6. ART EXHIBITION 7 Dec, 10am - 5pm, The Guide Hall, Winchcombe Artwork by celebrated Winchcombe artist Robin Reckitt. Profits will be donated to The Lilian Faithfull Home. CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT. 7 Dec, 7.30pm, St Michael and All Angels Church. Cleeve Chorale
accompanied by children from Bishop's Cleeve Primary Academy. Refreshments, incl. mince pies. Tickets £5 (accompanied children free) available on the door, from George Lewis Footwear, Woodmancote Newsagents, Gotherington Stores or 01242 674114. THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS 7 Dec, 7.30pm, St Matthew’s Church, Cheltenham Seasonal music, carols and orchestral pieces presented by the Jubilate Chamber Choir and guest choirs. Conductor: Ian Higginson. Adults: £12; Senior Citizens: £10, U21s: £8; carers free. Tickets available in advance from The Wilson; and also on the door. TEWKESBURY CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT. 7 Dec, 7.30pm, Tewkesbury Abbey. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk T: 01684 850959 ALDWYN VOICES SEQUENCE FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS. 8 December, 3pm, Tewkesbury Abbey www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk T: 01684 850959 CAROL SERVICE AND READINGS 8 Dec, 4pm, The Old Baptist Chapel, Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5RZ Will be followed by refreshments. Family-friendly; all welcome. Further details: office@tewkbaptist.org.uk. SCHOLA CANTORUM CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE 10 Dec, 6.30pm, Tewkesbury Abbey
www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk T: 01242 258000 TAPESTRY OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC. 10 Dec, 7.30pm, Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham. Cheltenham Choral Society; Prestbury St. Mary’s Junior School Choir and The Beauregard Youth Choir. In aid of Great Western Air Ambulance. Adults £10, U13's £5. Tickets from Cheltenham Town Hall Box Office: www. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING. 12 Dec, 2 - 5pm, Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham, GL52 3JE Scottish Country Dancing to CDs. £5; pay on the door. Derek Latham: 01452 306857. CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSICALS 13 December, 7pm, The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham Join Mary-Jess (winner of the Chinese ‘X Factor’ and Official Downton Abbey Songstress) and Joanna Forest (two-time UK Number 1 selling soprano) and a special guest choir for a magical festive evening. Songs from the West End and Broadway and timeless winter classics. Tickets: £20. THE INTERNATIONAL 13 & 14 December, Cheltenham Racecourse Races, followed by Christmas Party. http://cheltenham. thejockeyclub.co.uk/ A CHRISTMAS CAROL 14 Dec, Doors open 6.30pm for 7.30pm start, The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham Adults: £16 / Children £11; Family (2 Adults & 2 Children):
£46. For tickets and more information: 01242 258 002 / www.bacontheatre.co.uk JOHN COGHLAN’S QUO 14 Dec, Doors open 7pm, Watson Hall, Barton Street, Tewkesbury. Admission: £15 www.tewkesburytowncouncil. gov.uk; T: 01684 636666 SCHOLA CANTORUM CONCERT. 14 December, 7pm, Tewkesbury Abbey. Handel's Messiah. Tickets: £20, £15, £12. Available from the Tewkesbury Abbey Shop: 01684 856148. www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk BBC GLOUCESTERSHIRE CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS. 18 Dec, 7.30 9.15pm, Tewkesbury Abbey www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk T: 01242 258000 WINCHCOMBE LIVE 20 December, Doors open 8.15pm, The White Hart, Winchcombe. Sons of the Delta. £10 on the door. NORTHERN SOUL NIGHT 21 Dec, 7.30 - 11.30pm, Watson Hall, Barton Street, Tewkesbury. T: 01684 636666 https://tewkesbury towncouncil.gov.uk/event/ northern-soul-3/ SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS 22 December, 6pm, Tewkesbury Abbey. Sung by Tewkesbury Abbey Choir. CHRISTMAS EVE 24 Dec, Tewkesbury Abbey 8.30am: Holy Communion. 4pm: Christingle Service. (doors close at 2pm and re-open at 3.15pm). Page 27
Children should come dressed as somebody from the nativity story. 11.30pm: Midnight Mass; Tewkesbury Abbey Choir. CHRISTMAS DAY 25 Dec, Tewkesbury Abbey 8am: Holy Communion Book of Common Prayer. 10.30am: Christmas Day Eucharist - sung by Tewkesbury Abbey Choir. CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM 25 Dec, 11 - 11.30am, Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham, GL53 7PU. Go for a quick chilly dip on Christmas morning! Gates open 10.50am; swim begins at 11am. Minimum age: 17. Free, but donations welcome. Families can come and watch. To sign up: www. sandfordparkslido.org.uk BIRDS OF PREY DAY 28 Dec, John Moore Museum, Tewkesbury GL20 5SN. With J.R.C.S Falconry. Sessions to choose from: 10am - 11.15am; 11.45am - 1pm; 2 - 3.15pm; 3.45 - 5pm. Adults: £6, Seniors & Students: £4.50, Children: £2 (tickets include admission to the Museum and the Old Baptist Chapel). NEW YEAR'S DAY RACING 1 January, Gates open 10.30am, first race 12.15pm, Cheltenham Racecourse Seven quality races & family entertainment. Tickets from £10. U18's go free. www.thejockeyclub.co.uk ART LECTURE 9 January, 2pm, Highnam Community Centre (Gambier Parry Hall), GL2 8DG. 28
L. S. Lowry - Should we celebrate his contribution to British Art. Visitors welcome. T: 01684 833701 EPIPHANY CAROL SERVICE 12 January, Tewkesbury Abbey Sung by Tewkesbury Abbey Choir. Candle Celebration attended by Bishop Rachel. FAMILY PANTO: ROBINSON CRUSOE & THE PIRATES 16 - 19 January 2020, The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham Thursday - Friday Evenings: 7pm; Saturday: midday & 4.30pm; Sunday: 2.30pm. Tickets: £11 - £16 from Showcase on 01242 224144 or visit www.promenade productions.co.uk.
Regular Events COMMUNITY FOSTER CARE INFO SESSIONS Wednesdays, 3 - 6pm, Unit A Kingsholm Mews, 76 Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester, GL1 3BD. Are you interested in fostering children and young people? Then come along and find out more. T: 01452 849301; www. communityfostercare.co.uk COUNTRY MARKET Fridays, 9 - 11.30am, Tewkesbury Town Hall Homemade cakes, savouries, preserves, crafts, seasonal vegetables/fruits, plants & shrubs. Refreshments. CRAFT FAIR 2nd Sun/month, 11.30am - 2.30pm, Bishop's Cleeve Community Centre Wide range of stalls; refreshments. Free entry.
Libby Cleal: 07776 301767. CRICKET PRACTICE Sundays, 10am - 12pm, Bushley Cricket Club More players wanted, esp. for ladies team. Kit & coaching provided. Any experience catered for. 01684 292350 or 07812 179002. DANCE WITH PARKINSON'S & MS. Tuesdays, 1.15pm, Marina Court, Trafalgar Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5AY. £5 per session, incl. refreshments. A friend or carer can come too for a £1 suggested donation towards costs. 01242 603207 for details. Term-time only. FARMERS & CRAFT MARKET 2nd Sat/month, 9am - 1.30pm, Abbey Lawns Car Park, Gander Lane, Tewkesbury, GL20 5PG. Local produce and local arts and crafts. T: 01684 855040 GENERAL RETAIL MARKET Weds & Saturdays, 9am 3.30pm, Spring Gardens Car Park, Oldbury Rd, Tewkesbury, GL20 5DN. More info Dave Joynes, 01386 840138. MEMORY CAFÉ 4th Wed/month, 2 - 4pm, Tewkesbury Day Centre, Station Road. For those with memory problems and their carers/ companions. Tea and cakes. Free entry. T: 01684 296238 TEWKESBURY CARE TO SING 2nd Weds/month, 2 - 4pm, Tewkesbury Day Centre, Station Rd, GL20 5DR. For those with memory problems and their carers/companions. Sing your favourite songs together. Tea & cakes. £2.50/person. Tel. 01684 772559
CHELTENHAM’S CHRISTMAS STALL MARKETS 10 DAYS OF FESTIVE SHOPPING FUN...
CHRISTMAS CHARITIES, FINE FOOD & DRINK MARKET Sat 7th Dec, 9am - 4pm at Long Gardens Your first stop for cards, gifts and wrapping paper, plus a taste of pleasures to come.
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION FARMERS MARKETS Fri 3rd & Sat 20th Dec, 9am - 2pm at Long Gardens The essential destination for the finest local food and produce to satisfy all.
CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS MARKETS Tue 17th - Tue 24th Dec* inclusive, 9am - 5pm in the Promenade A treasure trove for gifts, treats and decorations. Find that special gift for someone special...
For further details please call 01608652662 or email trade@cotswoldmarkets.com (Please note: On the 21st and 22nd, the Craft Market will be held at Long Gardens and in the Promenade.)
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Advertisers index AERIALS & SATELLITES Digital & Satellite Systems ANTIQUES Patrick Oliver Antiques AUCTIONEERS Smiths of Newent
2 9 15
BATHROOMS & KITCHENS BB Services 11 Fresh Doors 7 BIKE REPAIRS Bod's Custom Cycles Ltd
13
BUILDING & HANDYMAN SERVICES BB Services 11 LB Services 31 Tewkesbury Exterior Painting 25 BUSINESS PARKS Compoton Green B. Park CARPETS & FLOORING Goodrum Carpets Ledbury Carpets CHARITIES Coram Beanstalk Sue Ryder
CURTAINS & BLINDS Chosen Curtains Sheila's Shutters
DOMESTIC APPLIANCES Godsell's Domestic A.
13 25 17 8 2 9 13 8
ELECTRICIANS BB Services LB Services
11 31
REMOVALS & STORAGE Compoton Green B. Park Swift Removals & Storage
13 3
23
SHOPPING Cotswold Markets Renaissance
29 4
EVENTS Aladdin (panto) back page Battle of the Bands 8 Cotswold Markets 29 Lights of Love 2 Tewkesbury Big Weekend 8 FENCING Colour Fence Ltd
FUNERAL DIRECTORS Alexander Burn GARAGE DOORS Garolla
25 2
GARDENING & LANDSCAPING Cheltenham Town Landscaping & Driveway Services 4 Highnam Landscaping 19 James Bubb 21 LEGAL & FINANCIAL SERVICES Dee & Griffin Solicitors
MOTORING, MOTS & REPAIRS Bod's Custom Cycles Ltd V-Hub MOT Centre V-Hub Services
ROOFING LB Services 31 SD Roofing 13 Tewkesbury Flat & Pitched Roofing 25
THEATRE The Roses Theatre
VOLUNTEERING Coram Beanstalk Scouts Volunteer Drivers
8 & back p.
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Fresh Doors Garolla Shane Howells
8 4 25
7 2 18
9
13 31 5
MUSIC & INSTRUMENTS Strummers 21
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. Love Local Magazines do 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.
To include your business in the January issue call 01242 388 366 or email Anne@lovelocalmagazines.co.uk. We publish 6 magazines in the Gloucestershire area.
your pet may eat them without you noticing. These sachets can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Whilst not wishing to diminish the joy of Christmas, it pays to make sure your pets are safe this festive season. Many of these trimmings aren’t obviously hazardous but they
Prett y Christmas Trimmings That Can Harm Your Pet
do have the potential to cause serious harm. By Ann Haldon
The glitz and glitter of Christmas is so pretty that it’s easy to forget the potential dangers of our festive trimmings, so here are some of the possible hazards that may threaten your pet at this time of year. Spray snow Spray snow looks very pretty but it does contain chemicals that are harmful to animals. If your cat or dog licks the substance they could suffer from sickness and diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal problems.
LB Services Building & Marine Work
Tinsel Tinsel can cause a blockage in the intestines if eaten and might require a trip to the vet to clear the blockage. Glitter The sparkle of glitter is very attractive to pets, but glitter is easily ingested. The tiny pieces can also lodge in their eyes and set up a nasty irritation. Baubles Glass baubles present a serious danger to pets if broken, and also pose a choking hazard. Fairy lights Your pet can be electrocuted by fairy lights if bitten through, but there’s also a danger they could become tangled in the lights and be unable to free themselves if they’re alone in the house. Silica gel Silica gel sachets are very small and Page 31
Sponsored by
Tewkesbury’s Traditional Family Pantomime Written & directed by Ben Crocker
Saturday 30 November - Saturday 4 January
What’s your wish this Christmas?
kets, Family tic ounts c is d group in and barga ces n a rm o rf pe le b ila ava
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