All About St John's & Villages April/May 2017

April/May 2017 Issue 37

10,500 hand-delivered to households & businesses in St John's in Worcester, and in the villages Powick, Rushwick, Leigh Sinton, Bransford, Broadheath, Hallow and Callow End

free

keep me for 2 months

RHS Malvern Spring Festival 11 - 14 May Win a FREE family ticket See Page 15 for more information

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All About discount Quote Ref: AASV3 To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com

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Contents

welcome

April/May 2017

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Spring has arrived and the magazine is full to the brim with seasonal events, ideas for days out and local businesses to use and visit.

We have some lovely villages dotted around the west side of Worcester, and this spring is a chance to enjoy village life at its best. The yearly fairs return to Rushwick and Hallow in May and June and these popular events offer a great day out.

20 Finance Advice 6 Enjoy Local 8 Community News 10 Business News 12 - 14 Competition: RHS Spring Festival 15 Rushwick Fayre 16 Roots Recipe: Meg's Carrot Cake 18 Well Being: Sleep 20 Hallow Village Community Group 22 Local Talent 24 Worcester Male Voice Choir 26 Listening Books 28 Notice Board 32 What’s On 36 & 37 Theatre News & Competition 38 Classes & Courses 38 www.facebook.com/allaboutworcester @allaboutmalvern www.allaboutworcester.com

For garden lovers, there are plenty of events as well including an open garden in the heart of St Johns which is a gem! (See page 8.)

Enjoy this lovely time of the year and Happy Easter!

Sascha McDonald - The Editor Cover Photo Maypole dancing in Hallow 2016, photographed by All About Magazines DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Sascha McDonald (owner & publisher) Colwall, Malvern WR13 6QN sascha@allabout-local.com 01684 252242 | 07906 573352 ADVERTISING Teresa Rooney - 07722 226712 teresa@allabout-local.com EDITORIAL & DISTRIBUTION: James McDonald - 01684 252242 james@allabout-local.com All About St John's & villages is distributed to 10,500 homes & businesses over 2 months CONTRIBUTORS Tracy Reck, Roots, Dave Webber, Rob Weale NEXT BOOKING/COPY DEADLINE Monday 8 May for the June/July edition

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of the advert. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted under the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All About Magazines does not endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without prior consent of the publisher. All About Local Magazines Ltd is registered in England and Wales Company No. 7200758

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For more information or to arrange your appointment, please call 01684 566449 74 Barnards Green Rd, Malvern WR14 3LY

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Advice

Budget 2017: The Devil in the Detail

By Independent Financial Advisor Rob Weale

M

uch has been made of the Spring Budget delivered by the Right Honourable Philip Hammond - the hike in NI contributions for the self-employed which was swiftly reversed, the cut in tax-free dividend, the reduction in pension contributions post-drawdown.

One of the least reported elements, buried deep in the budget documentation is the exponential hike in probate fees set to come this May. These fees are now to be classed as a ‘tax’ in the national accounts, some might say a ‘death-tax by stealth’?

Under the current system families pay the government a set £215 fee, or £155 if they apply through a solicitor, to get legal authority to distribute the deceased’s estate, known as probate. However come May these fees are set to rocket to anywhere from £300 to £20,000 depending on the size of the estate being administered.

The Numbers Under the new system, there will be no fee for estates under £50,000 which is a big improvement on the current £5,000 limit. After that it is £300 for estates worth up to £300,000; £1,000 for estates worth between £300,000 and £500,000; £4,000 for estates worth more than £500,000 and up to £1 million; £8,000 for estates worth more than £1m up to £1.6m; £12,000 for estates worth between £1.6m and £2m; and £20,000 for estates worth more than £2m.

The Problem?

‘Where is the problem, surely it’s fairer?’ I hear some of you cry. 42% of estates are worth over £50,000 so there is an immediate hike of 40% in fees, but given house prices are at an all-time

Rob Weale is a founding partner at Smith Weale Associates. We can help make the critical decisions, and choose the very best solution tailored to your individual circumstances from the whole of the UK market place. We

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high, investments are riding the crest of a wave and with pension freedom ramifications, many estates will suffer substantial increases. More to the point, these fees have to be paid up front.

This means relatives could be left in a catch-22 situation where they do not have enough cash to pay the probate fees until they inherit the property, but they cannot sell it until probate has been paid.

The Solution Some solicitors will pay the probate fees for you on account, however I think this is unlikely given the level of fees required and the time it takes for pay back. Another option is a short term loan but these are expensive, not everybody is eligible and they carry their own inherent risks. Finally, seek independent financial advice as part of a bigger review of your estate. As well as helping to mitigate inheritance tax, the use of life assurance and trusts can help mitigate the probate fee ‘tax’, thus ensuring your estate is administered smoothly and efficiently without delay and without causing extra pressures on those you were looking to benefit after you have gone. Death and tax cannot be avoided, but tax can be mitigated.

welcome your enquiry, all initial meetings are at our expense and without obligation. Smith Weale Associates will put you in an informed position to make an informed decision.

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there are a number of payment options to suit each and every client and the different levels of service required. Please request a copy of our client agreement or speak to an advisor.

DipPFS, Certs CII(MP & ER), CeLTCI

Smith Weale Associates is a Limited Liability Partnership, Regulated in England & Wales No. OC319930 Smith Weale Associates LLP is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Think carefully before securing other debts on your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your morgage.

To understand the features and risks of an equity release scheme ask for a personalised illustration.

To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate taxation and trust advice and some form of morgages.

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Enjoy Local 1. 'beside the seaside' show at the fold A brand new show full of nostalgia, entertainment and fun! This new show in the Cart House at The Fold in Bransford is packed with memories of the British Seaside holiday. Fold Theatre’s cast of eleven talented singers and actors take you from the Victorian era right through to the present day. The evening on Saturday 8th April also features a performance by Dampier’s Round. There will be a bar and food is available in the Fold cafe from 7pm with the show starting at 8.30pm.

Tickets cost £8, for details email eric_payne@btinternet.com or visit ericpaynefolksongs.co.uk

2. 'Bulbs for the Unusual' 'Bulbs for the Unusual' is a talk

by Ross Barbour at Black Pear Gardening Club this April. Ross, from Old Court Nurseries in Colwall, will be visiting on 15th April at Powick Parish Hall, with the talk beginning at 2.30pm.

On 29th May the club will be holding A Gardener’s Market between 11am and 1pm.

For further details you can visit www.blackpeargc.org.uk

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things to enjoy local During April & May

3. worcester Early music festival The Festival brings music to the city over eight days in May. With visits from several high profile early music ensembles, including The Gonzaga Band (pictured) and The Songmen.

Concerts take place at Old St Martin’s Church in the Cornmarket while on Saturday 13th May there’s the Pride and Prejudice Ball at the Guildhall, a costumed evening of music and dancing.

For details and tickets call (01905) 611427 or visit www.earlymusicworcs.org

4. open gardens at hanley swan Seventeen gardens will be open to the public in the village of Hanley Swan over the early May Bank Holiday weekend. The gardens vary from small to large, pristine to wild, with the owners in attendance if you want to chat with them or be shown around. You can simply turn up, buy your ticket at any of the gardens and then spend the rest of the day looking around. Tickets cost £6 and are valid over the entire weekend, with money raised donated to local churches. Open Gardens at Hanley Swan takes place on Saturday 29th, Sunday 30th April and Monday 1st May between Midday and 5pm.

For further details visit www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk

5. NGS open garden in St john's There’s a gem of a garden at number 68, Windsor Avenue in St John's and there’s a chance to pay a visit in May. Roger and Barbara Parker open their garden on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th of May as part of the part in the National Open Garden Scheme (NGS). You will be amazed at what sits behind their 1930s semidetached house – flower beds, an oriental area, veg patch, bog gardens, a koi pond and three other ponds in very different styles. There are five greenhouses as well chickens and ornamental pheasants. Open: 11am-4pm each day, entry £4.50, children free. Refreshments will be served, money raised from the day goes to charity.

There is limited space on surrounding roads so if you’re visiting by car, please park courteously.

For more ideas and local events: www.allaboutworcester.com

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Light Lunches Afternoon Teas

Afternoon Teas Plant Sales

Plant Sales

Open@ Hanley Gardens Swan Plant Sales

Plant Sales

17 Great Gardens - ‘Go Potty’

May Bank Holiday Weekend

Sat 29th April - Sun 30th April - Mon 1st May 12 - 5pm daily - £6 (for all 3 days)

Light Lunches Afternoon Teas

17 Great Gardens - ‘Go Potty’ 2017

Hanley Swan, Nr Malvern, Worcs WR8 0DN www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk

Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches 7 Great Gardens - ‘Go Sat Potty’ 29th April - Sun 30th - Mon 1st May Light Lunches & Afternoon Tea |April Plant Sales

12 - 5pm daily - £6Potty’ (for all 3 days) 17 Great Gardens - ‘Go

th April - Sun 30th April - Mon Hanley 1st May Sales Swan, Nr Malvern, Worcs WR8Plant 0DN 12 - 5pm daily - £6 (for all 3 days)

www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk Sat 29th April - Sun 30th April - Mon 1st May

Hanley Swan, Nr Malvern, Worcs WR8 0DN 12 - 5pm www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk

daily - £6 (for all 3 days) Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches 2017

Hanley Swan, Nr Malvern, Worcs WR8 0DN www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk

Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches

2017

Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches

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Garden 17 Great GardensWaste - ‘Go Potty’ Collection Service

Sat 29th April - Sun 30th April - Mon 1st May 12 - 5pm daily - £6 (for all 3 days)

Hanley Swan, Nr Malvern, Worcs WR8 0DN www.hanleyswanpond.co.uk

2017 Fortnightly Collections! *per year Only Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches

£48.00

We will collect your garden waste in wheeled bins & recycle it.

Contact us at panddgreenwaste@gmail.com or 07565 633 532

P & D Green Waste Ltd

t: 01905 22604 m: 07565 633 532 * Plus £7.00 one off registration charge.

2017

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START UP LOANS DO YOU HAVE A WINNING IDEA FOR A NEW BUSINESS? Impetus Business Loans supports new start up businesses and businesses up to two years old. £500 to £25k is available to borrow per organisation and free financial mentoring is available.

Call the friendly Impetus finance team on 01386 556000 or e-mail info@impetus-marches.co.uk www.impetus-marches.co.uk

To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com

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News

community NEWS

HALLOW HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY The Hallow Horticultural Society has two events coming up in the next couple of months.

Peter Chamberlain, a retired nurseryman, will give a demonstration and talk about Hanging Baskets on Wednesday 19th April.

On Wednesday 17th May it’s time for ‘An Evening with Ken Whittaker’, an amusing husband and wife double act, taking a light-hearted look at the seasonal do’s and don't's in and around your garden.

WORCESTER & MALVERN RSPB LOCAL GROUP The Worcester and Malvern RSPB Local group has a Dawn Chorus Walk on 6th May. Starting at 6am, it’s an opportunity to brush up on your birdsong recognition skills with Garth Lowe, on a walk of no more than 2 miles on level ground at the Cob House near Wichenford.

On 27th May there will be a showing of the film ‘Gulf Crossing: Story of Spring’. This documentary follows the annual migration of billions of songbirds across the Gulf of Mexico into North America. Entry is £2 for adults and free for children. The group’s AGM takes place before the film at 7.30pm at Powick Village Hall. www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ worcester

The society’s talks take place at Hallow Parish Hall (WR2 6PP) and begin at 7pm. Everybody is welcome, entry costs £3 for non-members. www.hallowgardeners.co.uk

RECONNECTIONS SERVICE Reconnections is a new service for Worcestershire that aims to reduce loneliness and isolation. Aimed at people over 50, there’s activities from befriending to bowling, walking and days out. Activities are chosen at group meetings that take place once a fortnight.

You’re welcome to come along, you can refer someone to the service or you can volunteer to help. Reconnections is run by Age UK together with several partners.

For further details visit www.reconnectionsservice.org.uk or speak to Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire on (09105) 740954

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FARMILY GARDENING EVENTS 'Farmily' Gardening Events at the Fold in Bransford offer the chance to discover the joys of growing plants under some expert guidance. on Easter Monday (April 10th) and the late May Bank Holiday (29th May) between 10am and 2pm.

For details visit www.thefold.org.uk or call (01886) 833633

‘Keeping kindness at the heart of our care’

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Dementia

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Our dedicated teams offer care with kindness, supporting residents to live happy and contented lives full of wonderful experiences.

“The staff are always kind, considerate and caring.”

“Mum feels very relaxed and enjoys the quality and variety of food.”

Daughter of resident

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Tel: 01905 676950

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Business News LOCAL

BUSINESS NEWS

BELLE BEAUTY Popular local salon Belle Beauty has relocated to new and more comfortable premises at Link Top. Since opening in 2009, the success of the business has grown to the point where more space was needed. ‘Since we first opened in September 2009, support from our many loyal customers is one of the main reasons why we’ve grown so much’ says the salon’s owner Lucy Watkins. ‘We will still be offering our high standard treatments at the same price, but in more peaceful surroundings.’

The success of Belle Beauty goes from strength to strength. They were recently named a Crown Salon by Guinot UK for the second year running.

You’ll find them in their new premises at 94 Worcester Road which has convenient free parking. www.bellebeautymalvern.co.uk 01684 577000 | 07702 887708

£10 off for new customers for treatments over £20

BELLE BEAUTY MOVED TO: 94, Worcester Road | Link Top Malvern | WR14 1NY 01684 577000 | 07702 887708

Book online: www.bellebeautymalvern.co.uk

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Manufacturers of Internal & External Blinds

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We can supply and fit or for DIY Visit our shop at 73, Spring Lane, Malvern Link WR14 1AJ Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8.30-12.30

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Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm

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Signposted opposite Worcester College Construction Department

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www.allaboutmalvernhills.com/businesses

Business News

Kiln Dried Hardwood

GO GREENER Go Greener offers skip hire and recycling for households and businesses in the Worccester, Malvern, Upton and Bromyard areas.

FIREWOOD

Bulk Builder’s Bag of Split Logs only £75 Please see website for delivery details

At its fully mechanised recycling centre in Leigh Sinton, the company recycles up to 90 percent of everything brought there. They supply skips from 2 cubic yards up to 40 cubic yards and are happy to advise on the best one suited to your needs and provide a quote. The company also accepts domestic or trade waste without the need for a licence, with a rate per kilo charged for waste which is dropped off.

Go Greener also has a range of aggregates for sale, ranging from hardcore to sand, gravels and shingle. You can either pick it up or have it delivered.

For further details you can call Go Greener on (01886) 832590 or visit www.gogreenerltd.co.uk

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Business News LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

A.G.WALTON LTD.

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CPS BUILDERS COMPLETE Whether you’re planning a new-build home, an extension, a loft conversion or any kind of home improvement, CPS Builders Complete can help.

This local company is happy to take on any job, whether big or small, which also includes fitting kitchens and bathrooms, new windows and doors, conservatories, or jobs in the garden from building walls to putting up fencing.

INDEPENDENT HEATING SERVICE ENGINEERS AGA - RAYBURN GUILD ENGINEERS 28 YEARS WORTH OF INNOVATED INSTALLATIONS & DESIGN SOLUTIONS

They will see a job through from planning to completion and will take care of everything from start to finish.

OIL , GAS & WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES: SERVICED & INSTALLED

Steve and Clayton have more than 30 years’ experience in the building and window industries and are both local to St John's.

ALL ASSOCIATED WORK UNDERTAKEN

You can call them for a free, no obligation quote on 07782 242710 or 07966 611186

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Call for a free quote CPS Builders Complete

We cover all aspects of building work • Newbuild • Extensions • Complete Refurbs • All Windows & Doors • Loft Conversions • Conservatories

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Garden Walls • Fencing • Building Regs arranged

Steve & Clayt both have over 30 years experience in the building and window industry and are both local St John’s guys.

Give us a call for a free quote:

Clayt 07782 242710 | Steve 07966 611186 14

Competition

Competition

Wykeham Gardens

Plant Centre

We have two pairs of tickets to give away to the RHS Malvern Spring Festival at the Three Counties Showground 11 - 14 May.

Thursday - Saturday 10am – 5pm Sundays & Bank Hols 11am – 4pm Come & browse our range of quality shrubs, unusual perennials, bulbs & annuals

Open:

For the chance to win a pair of tickets simply answer the following question: What has this year’s new look RHS Malvern Spring Festival been inspired by? www.threecounties.co.uk

End Feb - End Oct Crowcroft House Farm Leigh Sinton Nr Malvern WR13 5ED

Wykeham Gardens 01684 578381 | 07976 444618 T007-2201 All About Malvern ad RHS www.wykehamgardens.com

Email the answer plus your name, postcode and phone number to competition@allabout-local.com by Monday 24 April 2017.

The winners will be drawn from the entries and notified by Tuesday 25 April.

Good luck!

For terms & conditions see our website Malvern 2017 128x93mm AW.pdf 1 02/02/2017 16:09 www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

11−14 MAY 2017

Inspired by Malvern’s heyday as one of England’s finest spa resorts, come and enjoy our new look festival.

From fountains of flowers to top show gardens and the world’s longest floral marquee, experience the rejuvenating pleasure of a day out discovering summer inspiration for your garden.

Three Counties Showground, WR13 6NW 11 – 14 May 2017 BOOK NOW rhsmalvern.co.uk or 01684 584924 Tickets from £18 in advance Three Counties registered charity no. 511868

RHS registered charity no. 222879/SCO38262

To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com

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Event

rushwick fayre Rushwick Fayre is a popular annual event which takes place this year on Sunday 21st May. Mark Chappell who helps to organise it tells us more.

t

his is the tenth year we’ve run the event in its current format and it takes place in the beautiful setting of Rushwick Cricket Club on the edge of the village. It involves many different local community groups, and each year there’s a main beneficiary from the fundraising.

This year we’ll be supporting the local scouts whose hut was damaged during bad weather, but funds raised will go to other groups as well.

The event has grown massively since we took it on. We will have live music for most of the day, including Junction Seven, a fantastic band with singer Jess, a resident of Rushwick. We’re hoping to increase the number of stalls this year to sixty, so there will be plenty to see and do.

The mobile bar from Hobson’s Brewery will be back again. There will be a pig roast with other hot food which is coming from Dayus’ Butchers in St John's. There will be lots of family activities and entertainment in the main arena and we

margaret fox

floral craft supplies Come and discover our extensive range of creative products

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Huge Range of Ribbons Felting and Craft Items Wedding Supplies Floristry and Floral Art Products • Seasonal Decorations • Workshops

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hold a junior football tournament so there really is something for everybody. Although this is a village event we welcome people from the village and beyond.

This year we’ll continue into the early evening.

There will be a children’s entertainer at 6pm, whilst the parents can enjoy some more of the live music before everything wraps up at 7.30pm.

Entry is free, we want as many people as possible to come along and enjoy the fun. People are welcome to make a donation of loose change on their way out. We hope to raise as much as £10,000 from this year’s event, so please come along and help us reach that target!

The 10th Rushwick May Fayre takes place on Sunday 21st May from 1pm until 7.30pm.

For more information call 07875 668372 or search for Rushwick Fayre on facebook.

Number 1 Hatton Park, just off the A44 next to McColl’s convenience store in Bromyard, HR7 4EY Consultations are £50 for new patients with a £5 discount when this magazine is brought along!

Acacia Dental is a family dental practice which places great emphasis on providing all our patients with preventive, professional dental care and we are welcoming new patients.

Weekdays 8am - 5pm | Sat 9am - 1pm Unit 9, Sparrowhawk Close Enigma Business Park Malvern WR14 1GL

To find out more about Acacia Dental, contact a member of the team:

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or www.acaciadental.co.uk and leave us an enquiry message

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Madresfield Early Years Centre MALVERN’S PREMIER PRE-SCHOOL OPEN 8.00am – 6.00pm DAILY SIX OUTSTANDING OFSTEDS TOP QUALITY – BABY CARE TO 5 YEARS BEST IN UK, NATIONAL AWARD WEEKLY BABY & CLAMBER CLUBS GIVE YOUR CHILD THE BEST POSSIBLE START HOLIDAY CARE & AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS! www.meyc.co.uk | info@meyc.co.uk NEW MEMBERS WELCOME – Don’t delay……Call Today 01684 574378

Worcester Early Years Centre WORCESTER’S PREMIER PRE-SCHOOL Beautiful purpose built Nursery at Manor Farm, Malvern Road, Lower Wick WR2 4BS | Open 7am - 6pm daily Aiming for Excellence and transforming children’s lives 01905 749291

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Recipe

Meg's Carrot Cake This is a deliciously moist cake, perfect with morning coffee or afternoon tea. It is a firm favourite in our farm shop and freezes really well, so good to make ahead and have on hand for guests that surprise you! It is super easy to make, particularly good for children to get stuck into making with you.

You will need a 2lb loaf tin, lined with silicone paper or a shaped tin liner.

Ingredients 300g peeled and coarsely grated carrot 275g soft brown sugar 300g self-raising flour 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 tsp cinnamon zest of a large orange large handful of sultanas 3 eggs 225ml sunflower oil

Method Pre-heat the oven to 160˚C. In a large bowl mix together the dry ingredients ensuring that there are no lumps! Add the grated carrot and orange zest.

In a separate bowl or jug whisk together the egg and oil to form an emulsion. Pour this liquid mixture onto the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until fully combined. Ladle, or carefully pour the cake batter into the lined tin.

Place the cake in the centre of the oven to bake

Kindly provided by Meg of Roots at Rushwick, a Worcestershire Farm Shop on the Bransford Road 01905 421104

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for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. When ready, the cake will be firm to the touch and can be tested by inserting a skewer into the centre of the cake. When the skewer is withdrawn ‘clean’, it is ready. If there is still a little wet mixture on the skewer leave the cake for a further 10-15 minutes and test again.

We prefer this cake just as it is without a topping, but if you like, a cream cheese frosting can be added, or a drizzle of glace icing made with the juice of the orange and some icing sugar.

Bransford Road, Rushwick, Worcester WR2 5TD

A brilliant farm shop for foodies.

Please visit our website to find out more about our home reared organic meat and poultry

Real Bread

Baked at Roots every Thursday & Friday each week Tel: 01905 421104 We’re open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm | Sunday 10am - 1pm

www.familyfarmshop.co.uk

MIKE SWAIN

RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

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The Bran Tub Wholefoods.

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Enjoy our range of gluten free, sugar free, wheat free, dairy free and vegan foods.

We have fresh, ready to eat foods, tarts, wraps, pasties and amazing vegan cakes!

Visit our website or come and see us for help and advice.

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Well Being

sleep Even Superheroes Need This.

An Often Overlooked Keystone Health Habit

By Tracy J Reck, Exercise & Nutrition Coach in Worcester Without enough of it: • Normally kind, sweet, mild-mannered people inexplicably turn into the scariest of grizzly bears • Those who usually exhibit excellent levels of control around junk food will start channeling Homer Simpson's eating habits. Ooh, donuts!

• Tiggerish types who typically bounce through their days will droop and wilt before even lunchtime has passed • Workout-lovers will feel more like skipping their session than skipping rope • Happy people will develop ‘the ennui’ - a feeling that a damp, heavy, cold cloth has settled over your ability to feel happy and motivated, preventing all your usual joy from bubbling to the surface Tiredness is, for many a person, a Red Light Trigger, which means that its presence leads always, without exception, to poor choices. With effort, it is possible to downgrade it to an Amber Light Trigger, which means that sometimes it'll get ya, sometimes it won't.

Here's how you do that - figure out some in-themoment ways of ACTUALLY dealing with your tiredness. Why? - Because muffins do not help you meet your sleep debt

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I've written about this before, but as I've been getting up every single morning at the crack of dawn to walk my boy (dog), I'm feeling the importance of this health pillar ever more. Here's the fact of the matter - you can't burn the candle at both ends. Sleep is a fundamental source of life, energy, wellbeing, levelheadedness and smiles.

- Alcohol will not eradicate your need to get more shut eye - Crisps do not have a magical ability to reenergise you Next time you find yourself making poor foodrelated decisions driven by tiredness, remind yourself of those facts, walk away from the kitchen and do something that truly refreshes you.

A 30 minute nap, maybe. A 20 minute walk. A 10 minute meditation. 5 minutes with your eyes shut.

Experiment. Figure out what will help you when tiredness hits.

Then figure out why you're tired in the first place.

Where you are losing sleep? You can only put sticking plasters on this for so long. Ultimately you needs your 7-9 hours and if you aren't getting them, you're on a hiding to nowhere good.

As for me, I'm off for a snooze. See you next ti... zzzzzzzzzzzz

Tracy Reck is a fitness and nutrition writer, coach and speaker.

You can read more from her at www.exuberanthealth.co.uk

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21

Feature

hallow village community group The Hallow Village Community Group has had a busy time recently and is now preparing for its popular Country Fair. Joy Fulcher who is the group’s Secretary tells us more.

The highlight of our year is the Country Fair.

This is always a popular event and this year it will take place on Sunday 4th June from 11am.

This will be the fifth time we’ve organised the Fair and it has become an established event in Worcestershire.

There are lots of stalls and demonstrations, games, beer, local cider, Pimms and Prosecco to enjoy alongside a huge array of locally sourced food as well as a pig roast. A brass band will be playing with other local music while in the arena there will be belly dancing, falconry, line-dancing and Foxs Morris Dancers.

Children will be well catered for with the Smiley Train, pony rides, a Victorian carousel ride, inflatables, candy-floss and a miniature steam engine. The success of the event is due to the many village groups which are involved including the tennis club, the football club, Tai Kwando and the scouts who we rely on so much to erect the large marquees and many gazebos. It is a wonderful day with free entry and lots of parking in a farmer’s field a very short walk away.

Our membership has grown to 145 households.

We hold regular litter picks and we organise many other events. A jumble sale and a tabletop sale raised funds for a summer lunch for the seniors of the village. A Sunday Funday was held on the Playing Field when families were invited to bring their picnic & team games and races were held. Another successful Apple Pressing Day took place in September and hugely supported was the Hallowe’en pumpkin carving competition held on the Green with over 60 entries for the fancy dress competition.

The annual Christmas tea & social was enjoyed

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by 80 seniors and during the festive season carols & the Blessing of the Crib on The Green with a brass band took place. Santa always pays a visit on his illuminated sleigh to donate presents to the local children. To round the year off, a ‘bring & share’ New Year’s Eve Party in the Parish Hall takes place with local entertainment and a disco.

All of the above community events are “free” with the only financial contribution asked for being via a donation bucket. This is very successful and we finance all our activities as well as making donations to other village organisations to help fund their various projects. Another initiative we have financed is a new defibrillator which is sited in the centre of the village.

Our committee meets once a month and our constitutional aims are ‘To promote community activity in the Village of Hallow and to facilitate events for the benefit of the village of Hallow’.

I think our group is fulfilling those aims and long may we continue to do so.

We always welcome new members.

You can read more at hvcg.org.uk as well as on our facebook page.

F.W. Spilsbury David T. Spilsbury

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23

Music Feature

Local Talent:

foregate street blues They promise ‘Blues how it used to be’ and the three members of The Foregate Street Blues Band have found plenty of people who appreciate their great performing style. They’ve reached back to the origins of blues music for inspiration – no frills, no gimmicks, just a really solid three piece band with a very authentic sound.

By Dave Webber

i

t won’t come as a surprise to find out they came together on Foregate Street, at a regular blues night that was held in the Cellar Bar. Darren Mather and Andy Dent used to help out and were admirers of Dave Bristow who would regularly perform there as a solo artist. ‘He has a unique style which is entirely laid back, unassuming and technically clever’ says Darren. ‘Never in a million years did we ever believe we might end up performing with him!’

That is exactly what happened. Dave asked them to play with him on a couple of tracks he was working on. They had a lot of fun during the recording session and their shared belief of leaving out musical gadgets and gimmicks helped them to gel as a three piece.

A good clean sound isn’t necessarily an easy thing to achieve. ‘Traditional blues started as a kind of hollering based around a call and a response’ says Darren, the band’s harmonica player. ‘We follow that same tradition with Dave on guitar calling and me responding on harmonica. It’s about performing around each other, leaving enough space, made even better thanks to Andy’s fantastic sense of timing.’

Their sets are a mix of some classic songs together with material they’ve written themselves.

They like to think of taking the audience on a journey from music that’s fast and upbeat to more melanchony tracks. ‘We choose our music well' says Darren, ‘and our style gives the audience time and space to think.’ Darren describes the guitar skills of Andy and Dave as ‘the bookends’ which keep his harmonica playing safe in the middle! ‘They are like a safety net’ he says.

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Since forming a couple of years ago they’ve played all over the place from Bristol to Nottingham, Leicester and many other places in between. It’s hard to pinpoint when and where you might be able to catch them next, but look out for them playing in north Worcestershire, Birmingham and the Upton Blues Festival this spring and summer. Search for ‘Foregate Street Blues’ on Facebook where they keep their loyal audience up to date with future gigs.

They’ve recorded an album called Shades of Blues which is a prime example of their philosophy of playing music in a style where the lyrics, the soul and the music itself is what really matters.

You can hear some selected tracks or download their album via their website which is foregatestreetblues.com

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25

Feature

All About...

worcester male voice choir Worcester MVC is celebrating its 30th anniversary with local performances and a tour to Devon. Chorister Terry Dillingham tells us more.

How did the WMV Choir originally form?

Male voice singing has traditionally had a strong link to areas of the country or occupations.

Worcester MVC emerged in 1987 from the demise of the Worcester Police Choir. The conductor at that time was Henry Sandon, wellknown Antiques Road Show star. Henry is a life member of the Choir and occasionally comperes or even conducts.

What are the highlights of the Choir's 30 years?

much celebration, much singing and a lot of the local brew!

The Choir has been strongly led by a number of dedicated Musical Directors (MD). Our current long-serving MD Nicolas Wright has taken it to new heights. We have performed in many prestigious venues; the Royal Albert Hall, Symphony and Town Halls, Birmingham, The Great Hall at the University of Birmingham, Colston Hall, Bristol, and many cathedrals.

What will the next 30 years bring for the choir?

Regular Tours are undertaken throughout the UK and overseas including France, Germany and Ireland. One of the most memorable occasions was when we sang at the Thiepval Memorial in the Somme.

The Choir is a charity itself but gives its proceeds from concerts to local, regional and national charities with over £200,000 having now been donated.

How is the Choir marking its 30th Anniversary?

The year started off with a St. David’s Day Concert at Cradley, and there are further high profile concerts including St George’s Day at St.Martins Church, London Road, Worcester, our Annual Concert in September at College Hall, Worcester and then Christmas concerts at Pershore Abbey.

The Choir will go on a four day visit to Devon.

The highlights will be singing in Exeter Cathedral and then with Budleigh Salterton MVC. After that concert the tradition is to have an afterglow with

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In 2018 our MD Nicolas Wright stands down.

We will soon be advertising for a new MD and that person, male or female, will be crucial to building on the past achievements and taking the Choir forward. Some choristers are also likely to retire and the opportunity for new men to help take forward the traditions will be an exciting challenge. Anyone interested in the MD post please contact us.

What do you enjoy so much about being part of the Choir?

Comradeship, fun, commitment, achievement, friendship, performing and access to more social events. One chorister recently said how much they enjoy rehearsals each week never mind the concerts. We welcome potential choristers any time. We do not require a chorister to be able to read music. The real requirement is to enjoy music, enjoy singing, be prepared to learn the pieces we sing and be committed. To find out more, telephone me on (01905) 821659 or simply come along to a rehearsal at the Angel Centre on a Monday or Wednesday evening at 7.15pm and see what we get up to. You will get a really warm welcome.

You can read an extended version of this article at allaboutworcester.com

S.C.Beard

Ever thought about singing?

Whatever your ability, our choir will help...

Carpenter and Joiner

You do not need to read music. We learn our music at rehearsals, from our own CD’s and from learning materials available from our website.

Age is not a factor. Any male voice is welcome.

Our choir currently numbers over 70 singers who come from Worcester, Malvern, Pershore, Droitwich, Kidderminster, Stourport and everywhere in between!

Worcester Male Voice Choir For further information contact Terry Dillingham

01905 821659 | 07809 740108

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27

Local News

listening books People struggle to read books for many different reasons. Whether it’s a visual impairment, illness or dyslexia, there are many barriers to enjoying the world of books.

Audiobooks are a lifeline for many people who struggle to read in the usual way and a charity is currently offering the chance of free membership to its audiobook library for people living in Worcester.

‘Our library contains thousands of titles’ says Jo Cord from Listening Books, ‘covering both fiction and non-fiction. There is plenty of choice for both adults and children and includes many bestselling authors and new releases.’

Using the Listening Books service is straightforward.

Titles are available as MP3 CD's sent through the post (all postage is included in the membership) and by downloading and streaming through the website or app, which can be accessed on computers and portable devices such as tablets and smartphones.

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Young people are well served by the charity, which supports the National Curriculum from Key Stage 2 to A Level as well as offering the opportunity for young people to gain the enjoyment of reading when they would struggle with printed books.

Membership fees usually range from £20 to £45 per year but the charity currently has funding to provide free membership places in Worcester for people with a print impairment who would find it difficult to pay this fee.

If you’d like to find out more about the free offer, you can contact Jo on 020 7407 9417 or email jcord@listening-books.org.uk You can also apply for free membership on the charity’s website and ticking the box for a free place: www.listening-books.org.uk/join-us.aspx

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Notice Board THE FOLD MONTHLY MARKETS

WORCESTER MOTOR FESTIVAL

Bransford WR6 5JB from 11am - 3pm April 23rd (Earth Day Market) and May 28th Free entry and ample free parking

www.thefold.org.uk

Saturday 20th May Browse classic cars around the city centre between 9am and 5pm With 100+historic vehicles, racing cars, 40 of the latest dealership cars, games, activities and workshops

AUCTION OF PROMISES

Now in its 11th year

At St Clements School Hall, Henwick Road Come and bid for bargains galore!

Bring your own refreshments A raffle will be held

RYA PUSH THE BOAT OUT

Saturday 22nd April 2pm for 2.30pm start

A chance to get afloat and try sailing at local clubs in Worcestershire 13-21st May

For details visit www.rya.org.uk

Proceeds to benefit the Buildings Visions Committee Fund for St Clement’s Church

BANDS IN THE PARK

WALK THE BLINDFOLD MILE Take part in Sight Concern Worcestershire’s challenge to go out blindfolded for a mile to face some of the challenges faced daily by blind and partially sighted people

THE SNOWDON MULTI-CHALLENGE Raising money for St Richard’s Hospice

At Cripplegate Park

On Friday 5th and Saturday 6th May

2pm to 4pm

Bike, hike and kayak, pitting yourself against the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia.

On Sunday May 7th, Sunday May 21st and Sunday June 4th

£10 booking fee, then raise as much sponsorship as possible 10am to Noon on Saturday 22nd April

Refreshments available in the Sons of Rest building

Small Message? !

It’s free for groups

al.com james@allabout-loc 01684 252 242

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MALVERN HILLS DISTRICT FOOTPATH SOCIETY WALKS TO ENJOY:

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Splendid Cinema Mixing World Cinema with Cult Classics at Worcester Arts Workshop 27th April – Under the Shadow (Cert. 15) 11th May – The Greasy Strangler (Cert. 18) 25th May – Paterson (Cert. 15)

www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk

Sat 1st April - Around Alfrick A strenuous 8 mile walk around the pretty countryside of Alfrick Sat 15th April - Broadway A fairly strenuous 10 mile walk through Cotswold countryside 6th May Foothills of the Black Mountains A moderate 10 mile walk with views of the Olchon Valley

All details of walk options can be found at www.mhdfs.org.uk

June/July Deadline: Tuesday 9 May

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33

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What’s On

April

may

Friday 7 April Alan Barnes and David Newton Quartet at Severn Jazz, Doors Open 7pm at the Portobello, Bransford Road www.severnjazz.org.uk

Saturday 6 May Dawn Chorus Walk with the Worcester and Malvern RSPB Local Group, 6am at The Cob House, Wichenford www.rspb.org.uk/groups/worcester

Saturday 8 April & Saturday 13 May Worcester Repair Café Whatever needs fixing, bring it along to STARS Adult Day Care Centre, Stanley Road, 11am – 2pm Read more at www.transitionworcester.org.uk

Thursday 11 May until Sunday 14 May RHS Malvern Spring Festival at The Three Counties Showground - see www.rhs.org.uk

Saturday 8 April Beside the Seaside a brand new show at The Fold, Bransford, full of nostalgia, entertainment and fun! Tickets £8 www.ericpaynefolksongs.co.uk Wednesday 19 April Hanging Basket demonstration and talk Peter Chamberlain, a retired nurseryman, will give a demonstration and talk about Hanging Baskets at the Hallow Horticultural Society, 7pm at Hallow Parish Hall, £3 entry for non-members www.hallowgardeners.co.uk Sunday 23 April Worcester Male Voice Choir presents a St George’s Day Concert 3pm at St Martin’s Church, London Road For details see www.worcestermalevoicechoir.org.uk Saturday 29 April until Thursday 4 May Public Art Student Show at The Hive Work from second year students on the Art & Design Fine Art courses at the University of Worcester www.thehiveworcester.org Saturday 29 April Amadou Diage & Group Yaker (Shindig) Bringing together the traditional and new, Western and West African music from a charismatic Senegalese singer-guitarist and some of the UK’s top world-musicians, 8pm At Worcester Arts Workshop, (01905) 25053

Saturday 13 May The Pride and Prejudice Ball at Worcester Guildhall, social dancing and music, one of the highlights of this year’s Worcestershire Early Music Festival - earlymusicworcs.org Thursday 18 May Do you love maps? Would you like a new interest or hobby?

Map Art workshops offer a chance to explore maps in The Hive archive and share ideas on making your own For information and to book contact Rosie on 07789 968945 or email mapartworcs@gmail.com Saturday 20 May The Malvern Hills Walk - Now in its 33rd year raising money for St Richard’s Hospice, with 2, 5 & 11 mile routes For info call (01905) 763963 or www.strichards.org.uk/ malvern-hills/walk Sunday 21 May The Worcester Full and half-Marathon starting at Sixways stadium before heading through countryside to the east of the city. Raising money for St Richards Hospice and other charities, start time 9.30am See www.tempoevents.co.uk

june

Friday 2 June until Sunday 4 June The Severn Sounds Festival at The Pavilion in the Park, Cripplegate Park, three days of local music and entertainment severnsoundsfestival.co.uk

Sunday 4 June Hallow Country Fair lots to see and do including music, entertainment, stalls, demonstrations, inflatables and a carousel, opens 11am www.hvcg.org.uk (See page 22)

Promote your June & July events: email james@allabout-local.com or call 01684 252 242 by Tuesday 9 May 2017 at the latest.

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FREE

for groups

What’s On

Easter Activity Camp 10th - 13th April Ages 8-13

£35 per day or £130 for 4 days For further info contact Catherine on 07854 486869 or email:

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Web: www.malvernoutdoors.co.uk Email: enquiries@malvernoutdoors.co.uk Tel: 01684 574546

Residential Support Workers Days – £14,536.43 - £17,745.00 Nights – £14,742.00 - £18,032.74 (Salary dependent on experience and location) The West Midlands Learning Campus (Rowden House School and Winslow Court) is a residential setting for children and adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and challenging behaviours.

We offer exceptional training with good internal progression opportunities and would like to hear from candidates with experience in this sector, or those wanting a career change to Health and Social Care. All staff must be flexible and willing to work shifts that include evenings and weekends.

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37

Theatre News

waiting for god A comedy by Michael Aitkens Directed by David Grindley Starring Roy Hudd and Nichola McAuliffe Roy Hudd (The News Huddlines) and Nichola McAuliffe (Surgical Spirit) star in this premiere stage production of the BAFTA Best Comedy Series nominated Waiting For God, which delighted TV audiences across several BBC series in the 1990s. This all-new script is penned by the sitcom’s creator Michael Aitkens, and directed by Tony Award winner David Grindley.

The cast of nine is led by Hudd and McAuliffe, brilliant performers who have each won best performance accolades in the prestigious Olivier Awards.

All the favourite characters from the original series are reimagined for 2017, facing the challenges that come with growing old disgracefully in the era of the silver surfer.

At Bayview Retirement Home, battle-axe extraordinaire Diana Trent conspires with new resident Tom Ballard to give the conniving manager his comeuppance through a hilarious conspiracy with unexpectedly heart-warming results.

Waiting for God will be appearing at Malvern Theatres from Tuesday 30th May to Saturday 3rd June.

Tickets are on sale at the Box Office 01684 892277 and online at: malvern-theatres.co.uk

Competition

Win a pair of tickets to waiting for god Win a pair of tickets to this show at Malvern Theatres.

Please answer the following question: What is the name of the Tony awardwinning director of Waiting For God on stage?

Email the answer plus your name, postcode and phone number to competition@allabout-local.com

by Monday 1st May 2017.

The winners will be drawn from the entries and notified by 2 May.

Good luck! *For terms & conditions see our website www.allaboutworcester.com

Classes & Courses

zumba with graham Mondays at Oldbury Park Primary School, Oldbury Road, WR2 6AA with free parking 6.30pm Zumba: Get fit dancing in a fun & friendly environment. All welcome, £4, just turn up 7.30pm Zumba Toning Class: £1 (£2 with stick rental) Visit grahamellery.zumba.com | 07734 957159

Take part in #WorcestershireHour on Twitter Mondays at 8pm & Wednesdays at 12pm

@WorcesterHour @StuartAllenFCMI

The business, charity, events & community hour for Worcestershire And Social Media & Business Training Courses: Full day ‘hands on’ courses in Worcester, £130 per person www.worcestershirehour.co.uk/training-courses 01905 384314

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• Twitter for Business • LinkedIn & Blog Writing • Facebook for Business • Modern Selling

THE HILARIOUS BBC SITCOM ON STAGE FOR THE FIRST TIME Roy Hudd & Nichola McAuliffe directed by David Grindley starring

TUESDAY 30th MAY - SATURDAY 3rd JUNE Box Office: 01684 892277 | malvern-theatres.co.uk To advertise please call Teresa: 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com

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“Dear Shaun, We just want to say ‘Thank You’ for the magnificient drive & pathways that Pave-Drive have laid for us.

Before

The design & finished work are superb. The workmen were efficient and didn’t waste a minute of their time.

It was money well spent.

Yours sincerely Mrs Wright”

01684 770086 • 07867 910377 40

After