All About West of the Hills April-May 2015

Bosbury, Colwall, Cradley, Ledbury, Coddington, Mathon, Storridge, Wellington Heath, West Malvern

free

April/May 2015 Issue 58 - 7,000 copies

The Downs Malvern

Keep me for 2 months

• local stories • local people • local businesses • what’s on • notice board • community information

A leading Prep School for girls and boys aged 3 – 11 years See Page 8 for more information

RHS Malvern Spring Festival 7 - 10 May

Win FREE tickets See Page 49 for more information

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D R LLOYD General Building

01886 880653 / 07971 866505 dafydd.lloyd1@btinternet.com General building Property renovation & maintenance Internal & external decorating Tiling Plastering Kitchen replacement Installation and service of multifuel stoves Local, reliable and trustworthy Free no obligation quotations References available on request

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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April/May

Welcome

to the April/May edition of

All About ‘West of the Hills’ Published & edited by:

Sascha McDonald, All About Local Magazines Ltd Colwall, Worcestershire WR13 6QN sascha@allabout-local.com / 01684 252 242 www.allaboutmalvernhills.com www.facebook.com/allaboutmalvernhills www.twitter.com/allaboutmalvern

Editorial/Content: James McDonald - 01684 252 242 james@allabout-local.com

Editor’s message

Happy Easter!

The RHS Malvern Spring Festival is one of the biggest events of the gardening calender, and as ever it’s taking place right here on our doorstep. Although it’s a large national event, there is lots of local involvement and it’s always good to see familiar faces when walking around the show. Bridget Evans from Caves Folly Nursery in Colwall is one of the exhibitors and as well as all the hard work preparing for that, she still manages to write a regular gardening page for us (on Page 46), so thank you Bridget and good luck getting everything ready!

There’s details of the show on Page 49 and a competition to win tickets, so you might even be able to go along for free.

Enjoy Springtime!

Advertising: Julie Tristram - 07783 871838 Distribution: James McDonald - 01684 252 242 All About West of the Hills is distributed to 7,000 homes and businesses.

Magazine design: Independent Design: 07989 393153 Front page: Photo Kindly provided by The Downs Malvern - their very own Light Railway Steam Train.

Advertiser Information Deadlines for the June/July 2015 issue:

Advertisement booking/cancellation: Tuesday 12 May What’s On/Notice Board: Wednesday 13 May Advertisement copy: Wednesday 13 May 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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Contents Business Business Active Ledbury West Malvern Active Malvern Hills Recipe Business Malvern Colwall Community Herefordshire Learning Wellbeing Gardening Competitions Recipe Business Food Events Events Theatre

Finance Advice 6 Iskitz 11 Out & About 12 Ring & Ride 18 The Funky Bunker 20 Local Walk 22 Well Dressing Festival 24 Fruit Cake 26 Legal Advice 29 Quilters Exhibition 30 Book: Bygone Colwall 34 Local Groups 36 & 37 Home-Start 37 Classes & Courses 41 The Biggest Frog 42 Green Fingers 46 Win tickets 49 & 62 Choc Fudge Brownie 50 Peter Cooks Bread 52 Food Festival 54 Notice Board 56/58 What’s On 60 & 61 Theatre News 62

New Felt Roofs Garages, Dormers Porches Repairs Rotton Boards & Timbers Replaced 15 - 25 Years Guarantee On All New Roofs

01684 541366 / 07926 861565 Portfolio & Recommendations available to view

A high standard of craftsmanship by SD Harris Builders was recognised by the Malvern Civic Society annual award for New Buildings or Renovations 2008

• Extensions • Renovations • Commercial • Roofing • Kitchens • Bathrooms

• Detailed quotations • Fixed Price - No Hidden Extras • Quality Tradesman

T: 01684 560491 M: 07973 338757

sd.harris@yahoo.co.uk 17 Leadon Rd, Malvern, WR14 2XF

Check us out at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/traderregister

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Advice

Ready, Steady...get advice.

By Independent Financial Advisor Rob Weale from Colwall Hardly a day passes at the moment without a journalist giving their view on the ‘Pension Freedom’ which is set to begin April 6th this year.

Whilst it is true that greater freedom will be available, many schemes are not ready for the changes and many providers are unlikely to alter anything as they are under no obligation to do so. As a result, many people could find themselves out in the cold. Here I detail, albeit briefly, a couple of the major choices facing consumers – please note, this is by no means a comprehensive list. Existing annuity holders watch this space, as important changes are being announced and will be explained in a future edition.

Annuity Option The ability to take a tax free lump sum and a lifetime annuity remain but some of the current restrictions on a lifetime annuity will be removed.

For many, this will still be the safest and most sensible option.

Flexible Access Drawdown From April, most pension investors aged at least 55 will have total freedom over how they take an income or a lump sum from their pension.

They can choose to: a. Take the whole fund as cash in one go – 25% tax free and the rest taxed as income b. Take smaller lump sums, as and when they like with 25% of each withdrawal tax free and the rest taxed as income c. Take up to 25% tax free and a regular taxable income from the rest, via income drawdown – where they draw directly from the pension fund, which remains invested, or via an annuity where they receive a secure income for life Any withdrawals in excess of the tax-free amount will be taxed as income at your marginal rate.

So, if you are a basic-rate (20%) taxpayer, any income you draw from your pension will be added to any other income you receive (eg. your salary) and this could push you into the higher (40%) or even top-rate (45%) income tax bracket.

Other tax consequences The Government is alive to the possibility of people taking advantage of the new flexibilities Rob Weale is a founding partner at Smith Weale Associates. Please remember, taking money out of a pension will impact on standards of living in retirement. We can help you make the critical decisions, manage your investments, pensions,

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by ‘recycling’ their earned income into pensions and then immediately taking out amounts from pensions.

Under the proposed rules from 6 April 2015, the annual allowance for contributions to money purchase schemes will be reduced to £10,000 in certain scenarios.

Guidance In his Budget speech, George Osborne announced that everyone should have free guidance to help them make sense of their options at retirement. This service will be provided by Citizens Advice Bureau and the Pensions Advisory Service. There will be no charge and your pension provider will be required to tell you about the impartial guidance.

Advice Not to be confused with ‘guidance’ and a must for anyone considering their options. Whilst guidance is indeed useful it won’t necessarily take into account your personal circumstances, your attitude for risk, your tolerance for loss, your long term goals or your short term needs. Unlike professional advice, there is no recourse, no reviews and no in-depth knowledge.

For me, acting without professional advice can be very dangerous indeed. When I need to fix my car, sort the roof or diagnose an illness, I could get guidance from the internet or read an article and then try to sort it myself, or I could get a professional in. Which will you choose? income and borrowing. We will enable you to choose the very best solution tailored to your individual circumstances.

We welcome your enquiry.

01684 577037

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: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate taxation and trust advice and some form of morgages.

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A leading Prep School with Day, Weekly, Flexible and Full Boarding opportunities for girls and boys aged 3–13.

Whole School Open Day

Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2015, 9.30am – 4.30pm

No appointment necessary Alternatively, for a private visit, please contact our Registrar, Katherine Cox, on 01684 544108 or by email to registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk 8

“The independent jeweller for individual people”

33 Belle Vue Terrace, Malvern WR14 4PZ www.thebeautyspotmalvern.com

115 Church Street DIAMOND Great Malvern •WR14 2AJ t: 01684 574077 SPECIALISTS Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 9.00am – 5.30pm

www.parrysofmalvern.co.uk

PROM DRESSES REDUCED BY 50%

Tel: 01684 438087 Malvern’s Premier Beauty Salon For all your beauty essentials - call NOW!

Extended Special Occasion department offering Mother of the Bride/Groom exclusive designs at exceptional prices plus wedding guest outfits, fascinators, hats and handbags.

Fresh, bright and colourful Spring/Summer day and evening collections just arrived affordable, stylish and easy to wear.

A boutique full of lovely things and just a little bit different!

Honest styling advice on hand

Please visit us at 39 Church Street Great Malvern, WR14 2AA

Alteration service available

T: 01684 572897 Open: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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• Heating breakdowns and repairs • Gas boilers, fires, water heaters and warm air units serviced • Landlords gas safety certificates • Boiler replacements, upgrades and conversions • Gas cookers / hobs supplied and fitted • LPG appliances serviced and installed

553629

SPECIAL RATES FOR PENSIONERS

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NO CALL OUT FEE

24/7

Emergency Service

Business feature

ISKITZ Iskitz is a brand new sporting retailer that’s recently opened in Malvern. Lee Smith their Managing Director tells us more.

bespoke range of clothing is of the highest quality and we help your club at every stage, working through design sheets with an unlimited choice of colours and logos. The order is then sent to the factory in northern England and the finished kit can be delivered in as little as a 3-4 weeks with no minimum numbers for repeat orders.

At ISKITZ we believe a cricket bat or a hockey stick should always be handled and measured before purchase as it is so important to use the correct balance and size of equipment for further development within the sport. When visiting our new showroom we will help you choose the correct bat or stick that suits your needs and at the right price. We are open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm and we’re happy to see you on Saturdays, please just call ahead on (01684) 869978.

The ISKITZ SPORTING BRAND was born with a vision of allowing more people to get involved in sport but at a price point that was more affordable to all those taking part and parents throughout.

For instance as a parent you could easily spend £200 on a child’s cricket kit before they’ve even stepped out onto the field but in reality it doesn’t need to be this way.

ISKITZ are using the same factories throughout the world as leading brands and therefore maintain the same quality as those brands but selling at a much more affordable price to all.

Of course we also offer all leading branded products throughout many different sports.

Our cricket bats are made from english willow and junior bats start as little as £35. Our hockey sticks are made by MALIKS, the largest hockey company in the world and again have a starting price of £35 for a 50% carbon stick.

As a business we have also invested heavily in print and embroidery technology. Which now allows us to personalise and add logos and text to all garments and different materials.

For further enquires or product information ring Lee on 01684 869978.

ISKITZ also produce our own sport clothing and teamwear manufactured here in the UK. Our

The Cricket Season is Starting!

Upto 50% off recommended retail price!

Visit your local sports retail outlet in Malvern:

Now Stocking

Unit 19 Link Business Centre 01684 869978

Reversible 20/20 top

We are also here for clubs: • team kits • stumps • cricket accessories £16

£17 £16

£18

£20

Bespoke Cricket Clothing Range Available - can be made into any club colours

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Out & About in Springtime As the days lengthen and the weather improves, Spring is a great time to head into the Great Outdoors . There are plenty of events taking place where you can learn more about our local wildlife and meet some of the people who work to conserve it.

APRIL Friday 10th April, 11am-3pm Wild About Malvern Join Worcestershire Wildlife Trust at Priory Park in the centre of Malvern and discover the wildlife all around you. There will be lots of free activities for families from birdspotting to trails and crafts as well as plenty of information for adults. See www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on Sunday 26th April, 11am-3pm Wild About Woodlands at The Knapp and Papermill Nature Reserve (Alfrick) Come and learn more about woodland flowers and wildlife during Woodland Wildlife weekend.

Discover something new with guided walks, children’s activities and information stalls with something for everyone. Free entry, small charge for some activities. Organised by Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, see www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/ whats-on Tuesday 28th April 2pm - 4pm Lambs and Livelihoods (at The British Camp) Join one of the Hills’ graziers as he puts ewesand lambs back on the Hills. Find out more about grazing livestock and how it’s essential for conservation. A free event organised by Malvern Hills Conservators – booking essential on (01684) 892002

Saturday 9th May 10am - 12 noon Pond Life at The Old Hills, Callow End Meet ecologist Nigel Hand and discover ‘life in the pond’, frogs, newts, insects and plants, and have a go at pond dipping. Perfect for the whole family! A free event organised by Malvern Hills Conservators – booking essential on (01684) 892002.

Sunday 17th May 10am - 12 noon Woodland Wonders and Beautiful Bluebells at Park Wood (West Malvern) Take a closer look at a traditionally managed woodland with a local woodworker, Dave Jackson. Hear the woodland birds, stories of dormice and see a carpet of woodland flowers.

Learn how we are now managing this wood as our ancestors would have done. A free event organised by Malvern Hills Conservators – booking essential on (01684) 892002.

JUNE Tuesday 9th June 11am - 1pm Orchid and Wildflower Walk on Peachfield Common

Wednesday 6th May 2015 10am - 1pm Springs and Spouts - Well Dressing Special (Meet at West of England Quarry car park)

An opportunity to join a guided walk around a flower-rich common. Find out how to identify common haymeadow plants and finish up with an orchid extravaganza. A free event organised by Malvern Hills Conservators – booking essential on (01684) 892002

This week is Malvern Spa Association’s Well Dressing week. There are over 40 dressed springs and wells on the Malvern Hills and

You can read about more events from Malvern Hills Conservators at www.malvernhills.org.uk

MAY

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Commons. Come along on a walk to visit some of the springs and spouts and explore the history and stories behind the Well Dressing.

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  

Now a 2014 finalist in the Regional LABC Building Excellence Awards for Best Extension

07901745243

Read our customer feedback at: www.traderregister.org.uk

Looking after all your property needs since 1976 Highly commended Local Authority Building Control Awards 2011

Call today to discuss your building requirements

Extensions Kitchens & bathrooms Renovations General building work Specialists in fibreglass roofing system Disabled grant work 01684 562648 www.gdpughbuilders.co.uk

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Making houses into homes...

Clover are a local Ledbury based family business you can trust for all your home improvements.

You name it, we can do it!

Building Projects We cover all sorts of home • Extensions and New Build projects, including: • Bathroom and Kitchen Re-fits • Loft and Garage Conversions • Electrical work (NAPIT) • Plumbing work (Gas Safe) Stoves and Logs • Wood-burning Stoves • Barn-stored, seasoned Logs uPVC and Timber • Conservatories • Replacement windows and doors • Automated Garage Doors • Roofline and Guttering • Automated Sun Awnings We are situated at Wall Hills Farm on the Hereford Road just off the Ledbury Bypass. To find out more, arrange a visit or discuss a project, please call Clover on 01531 631965 or email info@cloveryourhome.co.uk

Find us on Facebook: Clover Conservatories & Construction Ltd.

www.cloveryourhome.co.uk

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Warmer weather... now’s the time get that building project put into action! If you crave additional living space but building an extension is not an option, why not transform the space you already have using your loft or garage?

Clover Values.

We want you to love the work we do for you and to love how we do it!

We put you, our customer, at the centre of our business.

We are professional, honest and straight forward.

We take pride in our attention to detail and quality of finish.

We complete all our business with sound ethics and morals.

We will respect you, your wishes and your home.

Your local Which? Trusted Trader Supplying uPVC, Wood-burning Stoves and General Building Services Which? is a name consumers trust and rely upon for independent assessment, quality and honesty and we are delighted to be endorsed as a member of their recommendation scheme, Which? Trusted Trader.

The scheme is designed to assist homeowners find reputable tradesmen for their home-improvement projects, to make it easier for consumers to find reliable, responsible businesses and tradesmen who have been thoroughly vetted and are assured to offer excellence in both quality of work and customer service.

A rigorous in-depth assessment process, which delved into all aspects of the business, assures customers that this is not simply another ‘paid-for’ listing but an endorsement which truly means something.

Stephen McCluskey, Managing Director of Which? Trusted Traders said: “We are delighted to announce Clover as a Which? Trusted Trader. Our Which?

Trusted Traders service gives consumers the confidence to make the right choices when it comes to finding skilled professionals and we’re pleased to be able to give traders the chance to distinguish themselves from their peers.”

... and you can now spread the cost • Low cost finance is now available on orders over £900 • Spread payments over 12, 24 or 60 months • Online paperless process with instant decision Representative Example: Purchase Price...........£5000 Total Repayable............. £3945.28 Deposit 25%...............£1250 Total Interest Payable..... £195.28

Founded in 2008, Pay4Later is one of the UK’s fastest growing providers of point of sale consumer finance.

Designed around a paperless e-signature process, the Pay4Later platform allows customers to apply and complete their application online. It takes less than 5 minutes to complete with an instant decision in less than 5 seconds.

No paper forms, no waiting, no hassle.

Please contact us for more information.

Amount of Credit....£3750 Monthly Payments......... £328.77 No. of Repayments............ 12 APR Representative.............. 9.9%

Clover Conservatories and Construction Limited acts as a credit intermediary and only offers credit products for Pay4Later Limited via Ratesetter. Credit is provided subject to age and status.

Pichells Place, Wall Hills Farm, Hereford Road

Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2PR15 To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

Duncan Williams KITCHEN • BATHROOM SALES • INSTALLATION

Designed to suit your budget & requirements

• Kitchens • Bathroom Suites • Shower Enclosures • Wet Rooms / Disabled Showers

Tel: 01531 634674 Mob: 07758 863723 info@duncan-williams.co.uk

www.duncan-williams.co.uk BOILER REPLACEMENTS AND FULL CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS Boiler upgrades/ replacement New central heating installations Gas fires servicing Gas boiler servicing

WHY CHOOSE US?

• We offer fixed price quotations • FREE quotations & advice • No MONEY UPFRONT - Don’t pay until work is fully complete • No contractors - we only use our own qualified employees • Full guarantee on all work carried out • 35 years experience • References available

www.gasapplianceshowroom.com Gas Appliance Showroom Ltd 01684 891522 • 01684 566962

25 Worcester Road, Great Malvern, WR14 4QY

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Join us on our facebook page for exclusive offers

Finan ce now Avai lable

Advertising Feature

THE STAR INN A unique English pub, combined with a Chinese restaurant, hidden away on the side of the Malvern Hills.

Recently refurbished restaurant with decor reflecting where East meets West, offering the best of freshly prepared food. The perfect place to enjoy that special dining experience.

If you prefer take away, then why not try our delicious food from our successful and thriving take away service.

The bar provides a warm and cosy experience, where you can relax, meet your friends and enjoy a drink. We take pride in our cask ales.

Come along and be spoilt by that individual welcome from Ken and his team.

We look forward to seeing you.

“A hidden gem!”

‘Great place, the food is excellent.

I am a very fussy eater and have eaten at this pub both in the bar and the restaurant. I have also had take away food on a regular basis over the last four months.

One only has to observe the large number of people who return on a very regular basis to know that it is good.’

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The Star Inn offers a wide variety of services: • Tasting Menu • Special Orders; Pre-Book • Take-away & Restaurant menu • Traditional Pub Area • Cask Ale & Lager Offering Parties and space for parties: New Menu - ‘Eat as much as you like’ ‘Tried the Tasting Menu and found the food to be delicious...ate in the restaurant which has undergoneNewly some changes for the better and Refurbished creates a more intimate atmosphere.

An enjoyable evening!’

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Group News

Ledbury Ring & Ride

within Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.

The Ring and Ride Service run by Community Action Ledbury is a lifeline to people across our area. They offer lifts for people isolated in their homes and its all run by volunteers. But more help is needed as Sue Herrington explains.

We have around 40 volunteer drivers, both men and women, who generously give their time to help. They use their own vehicle and we reimburse their mileage expenses. Volunteer drivers give just a few hours of time, or a day or perhaps a few days every week.

‘In a typical week our Ring and Ride Service makes 110 trips – over a year that’s an amazing 5,100 journeys! What’s even more amazing is that it’s all done with volunteer drivers and the volunteer team who staff the desk.

The people we help have no transport of their own, or have hospital appointments and cannot drive due to receiving various procedures. They might be disabled or have no access to public transport. A lot of our clients are older people but we help people of all ages. It might be a journey to a doctor’s appointment or do to the shopping.

We offer our service to people living within the 23 parishes surrounding Ledbury as well as the town itself which covers an area from Cradley and Colwall to Bosbury and Tarrington. Sometimes we take people as far afield as Birmingham but mostly it’s to places and appointments

CRADLEY STOVES Installation & maintenance of woodburning and multifuel stoves For a free estimate call

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Our volunteer office staff are a mainstay of the service and they are very busy dealing with enquiries and booking drivers. We urgently need more volunteers for the office, you need to be able to use a computer and enjoy chatting to clients and volunteer drivers. You will meet new people, learn new skills and providing a lifeline to our many clients.’

If you’re interested in volunteering or would like more details about the service, speak to Sue Herrington who is the Ring and Ride Co-ordinator on (01531) 635339 or email sue@voluntaryactionledbury.org.uk The service is based at The Master’s House in Ledbury (just off the High Street) and the desk is run between 9.30am and 12.30pm from Monday to Friday.

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W.M. Downes Building and Landscaping Call today for a FREE quotation 01684 574599 07813 452044

• Extensions & Alterations • Modernisation wayne.downes@hotmail.co.uk • Garden Walls Qualified Tradesman • Stone Walling References & Photos available • Paving • Patios and Garden Maintenance • All Building Work Undertaken • Interior & Exterior Makeovers & more!

All roof & chimney repairs undertaken, including tiling, slating and lead work Eco Friendly Installation Specialists for Flat Roofs

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Local News

The Funky Bunker Locating the Funky Bunker can be a bit of a challenge. It really is a bunker, built into the hillside above Regents College in West Malvern with a car park on the top! Soon it will become a new recording and rehearsal space for local musicians.

ceilings. We’re shaping the inside acoustics using computer software and the very fact that the roof and rear wall of the studio are built into the hill means no problems of sound leakage.’

Ralph Tittley and Pete Nash are busy checking progress on the conversion work. Until recently this building was used as a fitness studio. ‘It became free’ says Ralph, ‘and so I poked my head around the door and thought it would be perfect for us as a recording space.’

The two work together on audio and video productions from their base at Raglan House next door and also plan to use the bunker for voiceover work and video production in their professional work.

Pete and Ralph are making sure the space is properly soundproofed and reassure neighbours it won’t disturb them. ‘We’re doing this properly’ says Pete, ‘with double doors, soundproofing and acoustic treatment on the walls, floors and

‘We’re partly doing this because we both play in bands’ says Ralph, ‘but the nearest facilities like this are in Pershore or Worcester. There are lots of musicians around Malvern who do their own thing in isolation, so we hope this will become a local creative hub. We will have equipment kept here permanently including a mixing desk, microphones and PA. This will allow musicians to get straight into rehearsing or recording rather than spending too much stime setting up.’

The conversion work on Funky Bunker should be ready by the end of April. You can read more at www.funky-bunker.com

The Malvern Kitchen Studio Ltd. Designs by Gary Williams

more than 27 years of design experience

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Inspirational Design - Practical Living FREE quotation service Open Tue - Fri 9 - 5 Sat 10 - 3 FREE parking Fully functioning kitchen on display!

www.themalvernkitchenstudio.co.uk 20

Scott Wroe Hearing Centre MALVERN

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Scott Wroe Hearing Centre in Malvern is an award winning, independent, family run hearing aid practice with over 35 years experience of helping people improve their hearing.

We are a 5 Star Centre for Phonak, the first Widex Approved Centre in the UK and a Gold Centre for Oticon.

For more information or to arrange your appointment

Please call 01684 566449 | 74 Barnards Green Rd, Malvern WR14 3LY

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Local Walk

The Dingle

Walk 13

A delightful walk west of the hills starting in West Malvern descending through the countryside to the pretty village of Colwall.

A fairly physically demanding uphill return is required, but fortunately ample opportunity is available along the route to replenish spent calories and to invigorate the mind and body.

The walk starts by heading up The Dingle - signs of quarrying are evident and further ahead is a strange looking weather vane, which is in fact an old sewer ventilation pipe (another three of these can be seen around West Malvern). After a visit to a hidden spring the route heads down Brockhill Road and past a pair of large lime kilns. Continuing past The Downs school, many folk are unaware they are passing over a miniature railway tunnel. The railway with a 9 ½ inch track extends for nearly a mile around the school grounds and is reputed to be the oldest private miniature railway in the world. Skirting around Colwall brings us to The Chase Inn before heading back towards West Malvern, past a five-storey former brewery which was active until the 1940s and is now apartments. A walk through the former West of England quarries brings us back to our starting point.

A Pictorial Guide to the Malvern Hills Book Four Great Malvern. ISBN ISBN 9780-9566295-3-1 price £7.95 Available in Malvern TIC, Malvern Hills Gallery, Malvern Book Cooperative, Malvern Museum, Malvern Priory, Kosihaus, St Ann’s Well, Post Offices at Malvern Link, Hanley Swan, Welland, Barnards Green and Malvern Wells Upton Map Shop and TIC Ledbury Books and Maps and the Three Counties Book Shop Public Houses The Marlbank near Welland For further information, updates and comments please contact Carl at info@malvernwalks.co.uk

To download the full details of the walk, please visit our website allaboutmalvernhills.com and choose Walking on the Malvern Hills & in Malvern under the ‘Local Life’ tab.

• • • •

OFTEC GAS SAFE HETAS L.P.G.

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YOUR LOCAL FRIENDLY JOINERS/CARPENTERS We make: Windows, Doors, Wardrobes, Kitchens, Bespoke Furniture, Shelves, Conservatories, Gates

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LOCAL ELECTRICIAN FOR ALL YOUR HOUSEHOLD ELECTRICAL NEEDS

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Please do not hesitate to contact me, Mark Williams, for a FREE quote:

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Severn Guttering Services Guttering | Fascias | Soffits | Barge Boards Repairs | Installations | Maintenance | Cleaning From Sheds to Castles, we guarantee them all No Job too Tall - No Job too Small Reliable, Experienced, Qualified, Insured Staff For free estimates & friendly advice call:

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Local News

Well Dressing Festival From Friday 1st May at various locations in Great Malvern and around the Hills Decorations for this year’s festival will be based on the theme ‘The River of Life’. As in previous years, a large number of volunteers get involved and decorate a well or spring. They interprete the theme with creativity and use a huge variety of materials for their work.

The results can be breath-taking, amusing and thought provoking and attract many visitors who tour the hills to visit them. ‘You may like to set yourself a target of visiting all the dressed sites’ says Lionel Shorstone who organises the event on behalf of the Malvern Spa Association. ‘I’m assured it takes three days and you need to be fairly fit to get up to Dripping Well! We’d be grateful if you can let us know your favourites by emailing us.’

Decorations are put in place on Friday 1st May and remain on display throughout the Bank

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Just call for a quote References supplied

07976 647548

brucemike555@aol.com 24

Holiday weekend and for much of the following week.

This yearly event continues to grow in popularity.

Last year a record number of forty four sites were dressed. ‘We’re hoping to decorate over forty sites again this year’ says Lionel. ‘We are waiting for Guinness World Records to confirm whether ours is the biggest event of its kind in Britain.’

The Malvern Spa Assocation welcomes your thoughts on the best sites after you’ve visited them at the start of May – you can email them at welldressing@malvernspa.org.uk Maps showing all the sites will be available from Malvern’s Tourist Information Centre and for more information visit www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

Lee Hankins Carpenter and General Builder Property Maintenance All Aspects of building work undertaken Over 20 years experience

Call me for a free quotation Mobile 07967 372085 Home 01684 540164 lshankins@hotmail.co.uk

Brown’s Bathrooms & Plumbing Services Reliable, Friendly & Efficient

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CALL PAUL ON 07597 272178

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Call Tony on 07971 967459 or email me at anthonywgroves@googlemail.com Over 25 yrs experience No job too small Free no-obligation quote

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CARPENTER

& FITTED BEDROOM SPECIALIST All aspects of carpentry undertaken, including property maintenance. Design & installation of: fitted bedrooms, office & lounge furniture. Kitchen Renovations, incl new doors.

www.goodcarpentry.co.uk

Rob Davies Plumbing & Heating

• Oil • Boiler breakdown/service/ maintenance • Boiler replacement/upgrade • Heating installation/upgrade • Central heating power flushing

Contact Rob 07974 413330 THREE LOCAL COUNTIES COVERED! NO JOB TOO SMALL!

For gas servicing and installation Contact Duanne 07773 395 803

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Recipe

Really Easy Fruit Cake Ingredients • 100g sunflower margarine • 1 cup of brown sugar • 2 cups of dried fruit •1 cup of cold tea • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 2 cups of self raising flour • 1 tsp mixed spice

For details of local cookery classes and parties see www.ourlizzy.com or contact Lizzy on 01684 892 688

1. Grease and line a cake tin. Preheat the oven to Gas 4/180°C. 2. Melt the margarine in a large saucepan; add sugar, mixed fruit and tea.

3. Boil, add bicarbonate of soda.

4. Cool, then add sifted flour and mixed spice.

5. Mix gently until all the ingredients are combined.

6. Spoon into the cake tin.

7. Bake for just over an hour until cooked.

An Our Lizzy Gift Voucher is a deliciously different gift idea

Lizzy also offers tailor made cookery sessions.

THE

For an Easter treat, when cool, top with apricot glaze and marzipan to make a Simnel cake.

FARMERS ARMS in Wellington Heath

The size of the cake depends on the size of the cup or mug you use; it doesn’t really matter as long as you use the same one throughout.

Malvern Kitchens Ltd Now offering full Bedroom and Bathroom Design & Fitting Service

Unit 3 Wells Business Centre 157 Wells Road, Malvern Wells, WR14 4HA Find us below the Spar Shop

8oz Steak Night HR8 1LS Tuesdays £8 Supper Club Wednesdays Fish Night Thursdays £6

01531 634776 Daily Specials Board Dog Friendly Pub Free WiFi

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Easter Sunday Special Roast & Chocolicious Pudding 12 April Sunday Pub Quiz Starts 7.30pm

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R.S.L. Driving Tuition

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UNIT 1 SPRING COURT, SPRING LANE SOUTH MALVERN WR14 1AT

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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MONKLEY’S FURNITURE www.monkleyfurniture.co.uk

100% Cashmere Ponchos luxury at affordable prices £55 & £65 available in lots of fabulous colours Isaacs Shoes 123 The Homend Ledbury HR8 1BP

01531 632312

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• Designed and hand crafted furniture made to order • Antique Furniture Restoration • Vintage and hand painted furniture • Home and Giftware

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Open

Mon - Sat 9.30 -5.00

Business Feature

The Compensation Culture Fact or Fantasy?

Jonathan Lewis of Orme & Slade Solicitors discusses some of the misconceptions about making a Personal Injury Claim.

We provide a highly skilled, efficient and friendly service for legal matters, including:Residential property Commercial property Leases and tenancy agreements Agricultural & equestrian property Remortgages Wills & Probate Family Law Litigation Employment David Rushton and Julie Neilson are members of:

NatWest Bank Chambers Ledbury, HR8 1AB Tel: 01531 632226 enquiries@ormeandslade.co.uk

www.ormeandslade.co.uk

You have probably seen press reports highlighting examples of what are described as large compensation claims being made for apparently trivial injuries pursued by “unscrupulous, ambulance chasing, No Win No Fee solicitors”. In 2011 The Daily Mail reported that a pupil at a school in Rotherham was awarded compensation of £5,750 after he was splashed on the hand with custard, as a result of another child (whose custard had spilt onto a tray) bumping into him.

The prevalence of TV and radio advertising from claims management companies promoting their services can give the impression that there is something slightly unsavoury about making an injury claim, but is this perception really accurate? The insurance industry scrutinises potentially fraudulent or exaggerated claims very carefully. However evidence suggests that the vast majority of claims are genuine.

Following the advent of No Win No Fee agreements the reality is that few lawyers would take on a case with anything less than a 50% chance of success. We do not know the precise facts of the Rotherham case, but I doubt that the boy’s lawyers would have taken on the case before carrying out a very careful risk assessment of the evidence and the local authority’s insurers presumably would not have paid out if the claim had no merit.

If you have suffered as a result of an accident that was not your fault (or may be received sub-standard medical treatment) you have nothing to lose by talking through your options with a suitably qualified local solicitor, who can advise you on your chances of success and funding options.

Jonathan is a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and provides an initial no obligation consultation service.

Telephone: 01531 632226 email: jl@ormeandslade.co.uk

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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feature

Malvern Quilters Exhibition MALVERN QUILTERS SPRING SHOW at Colwall Village Hall

18th -19th April

Open 10am - 4pm each day

£3 Admission

Malvern Quilters Spring Quilt Show is a popular event and brings visitors from as far away as Wales to view the work of this busy local group.

A resurgance in popularity of traditional crafts is creating new interest in quilting and new members to the group.

‘This is a chance for our members to exhibit the quilts they’ve made in the two years since our last exhibition’ says Ann Kay. ‘The hall will be full because we do like to fill the place and have as many quilts on display as we can. There’s a real variety of work. A lot is based on traditional designs but we do have a few who are creating quilts to their own designs. There are many different ways to go about making a quilt and we have a good spread across the different styles.’

‘We get a lot of comments from visitors that there’s so much to see’ continues Ann. ‘We get people coming from Wales, they’ll make up a car full and come. A lot of ladies bring their husbands, they’ll have lunch at our exhibition and then have a drive around the hills. If the weather’s lovely that’s a added bonus!’

As well as refreshments there’s an opportunity to talk to and buy from traders at the show, while a ‘sit n sew’ table gives keen quilters a chance to carry on their work in the company of others.

Malvern Quilters is an active group with a busy diary that includes fortnightly meetings with

talks and workshops as well as visits to other exhibitions. Numbers have been growing recently which Ann believes is because of new interest in their craft. ‘Television series like Sewing Bee and Kirsty Allsop’s programme mean that younger people are starting to take an interest. It’s good to welcome new people to our group, alongside our core of long standing members.’

An important part of the show is a Charity Raffle which will raise money for the Worcester Breast Cancer Support Group. The main prize is a quilt (pictured) called ‘My Heart’s in the Garden’ and which measures 150 centimetres square (60 inches square). Tickets cost a pound each and can be bought on the day, or in advance by calling Ann on (01684) 893592.

For more information about Malvern Quilters and their Spring Show, visit www.malvernquilters.org.uk 30

Duke of York

01684 833449

Every First Sunday of the month: Open Mic Night with local favourites

Tewkesbury Rd, Berrow WR13 6JQ • Two charming country pubs serving food, specialising in fresh fish & seafood •

Specials: 2 courses Lunch Time Mon - Fri Evening Mon - Thu £12.95 per person

A sample of our menu selection: Rustic Beef Bourguignon Fresh Seabass & Salmon Breast of Chicken in Mustard Cream Sauce Seafood Plate Steak & Ale Pie, Game Pie

Playley Green Redmarley GL19 3NB

Spring Offer exclusive at The Inn at Redmarley: CHILDREN EAT FOR FREE* *when ordered alongside adult meals/10yrs and under

Accommodation available

starting from £50 per night

ot Room

Includes the: D’Abit with outside private patio hire party room For private functions &

01531 650234 To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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 01531 634304 www.ledburycarpets.co.uk

SPRING PROMOTION

FREE UPGRADE TO BLACKOUT LINING ON MADE-TO-MEASURE CURTAINS BY BILL BEAUMONT Choose your Made To Measure curtains from Bill Beaumont’s Made For You Service and they can be lined with Blackout lining for the same cost of standard lining whilst this offer lasts.

Carpets | Karndean | Naturals | Hardwood | Rugs | Blinds | Curtains | Shutters 10 The Old Wharf, Dymock Rd Ledbury HR82JQ | Open Mon - Sat: 9am- 5pm Visit Our Store and showrooms on the Ledbury Bypass opposite the Full Pitcher Follow  @ledburycarpets | Find us on  Google Plus | Like us on  Facebook

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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All About...

Bygone Colwall

A new book highlighting some long forgotten views of Colwall is being published by the Colwall Village Society.

Old photographs and postcards were gathered from local people and members of the Society and older residents were interviewed to create a fascinating glimpse into the life of the village in the past. Michael Milne is the Editor of the new book and Chairman of the Colwall Village Society. He tells us more.

How did the idea for this book come about?

Which photographs stick in your mind?

The book is called Bygone Colwall. I took ages to think of a name but once that was chosen it all went forward. The Society mounted an exhibition of old photographs for Colwall Fun Day last year which aroused a lot of interest. Derek Rees, who put together the exhibition, then compiled, collated, and produced the material ready for printing. We are grateful to several villagers, including Mike Tebbitt and Graham Cowan, who had collected a lot of local images over a number of years. We also received material from the Ballard family who shaped so much of the village.

As the book came together, Ken Withington and Marion Percy checked the proofs.

We have incluced photographs of the walkers’ shelter which stands at The Wyche Cutting. A Lieutenant Colonel, from the Gloucestershire Regiment who were billeted here in World War I, was instrumental in getting it built. In the shelter there are two dedications to him - with one painted across a beam at the rear.

What does the book tell us about the changing face of Colwall?

Whilst the village still retains much of its past, a steady flow of demolitions and new build has meant an inevitable change in character. One unexpected find was a medallion embossed with an image of the Royal Well concert hall which once stood on the West Malvern Road, but has since been demolished. The pictures also show how our modes of transport were so different from horse to early cars. When the railway came that was probably the biggest single change.

Many of the people in the old photographs are dressed elegantly and appropriate to their place in society.

34

At the Malvern Hills Hotel there used to be a big outdoor swimming pool and we have a couple of pictures. On the back cover is a photograph of Colwall Station with its sidings, sheds, signal box and a double track taking trains in both directions. This really captures the spirit of the station, and the book also includes a copy of the line’s first timetable showing how long local journeys took.

What else is the Village Society up to?

We are planning to erect a plaque on Stephen Ballard’s old home, commemorating his life.

He was a remarkable man and the extent of his businesses locally was enormous. The family dealt in horticultural produce and had a brickworks, iceworks, gasworks, vinegar works and even a little railway to take the fruit and veg to the packing sheds. Colwall was a busier village because of the many local businesses.

Bygone Colwall goes on sale following a launch event at 11am on Saturday 18th April at the Colwall Park Hotel.

Andrew Phillips Funeral Services

Caring for you and your family

• Independent Funeral Directors • 24 Hour Service • Ample parking • Funeral & Pre-Paid Plans from £1,100 • Private Chapel of Rest • Serving West of the Malvern Hills • Natural Burials and Green Funerals Call Andrew Phillips or Avril Gibbons at any time on

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01684 540816

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www.phillipsfuneralservices.co.uk

Before you choose your carpet, choose your experts...

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Local groups Malvern Hills & Ledbury

West Malvern

Malvern Hills Freecycle Contact: www.freecycle.org

West Malvern Irish Dancers Contact: Ruth (parent) 01684 568613 or Rose (tutor) on 07976 6914686 West Malvern Royal British Legion Club Contact: 07985 133691 West Malvern Baby & Toddler Group Contact: Naomi on 899048 Meditation in West Malvern Contact: 07816578815 or email malvernmeditation@talktalk.net West Malvern Social Club Contact: 01684 576732 or visit www.westmalvernsocialclub.org.uk

Ledbury Children’s Centre Contact: 01432 383840 Malvern Social Group Contact: 07827 788862 or email info@malvernsocial.org.uk Ring & Ride Contact: 01531 635503, 9.30 - 12.30 Mon - Fri Citizens Advice Bureau Contact: 01684 563611 for Malvern or Ledbury 01432 377599 Malvern Small Business Forum Contact: Simon Smith or Joel Keiller on 01684 862151 or visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/business The Hills Bridge Club Contact: 01684 540486 or visit www.bridgewebs.com/hills Malvern Hills Lions Club Contact: Richard Sarginson on 0845 8337439 or email malvernhillslions@gmail.com or visit www.malvernlions.org.uk Malvern Hills Badminton Club Contact: Lynne on 01531 632751 or David 01531 635780 or goto www.malvernbadminton.net

Voluntary opportunities Community Action Ledbury: 01531 635339 Malvern Community Action: 01684 892381 Malvern Hills Volunteering: 07510 012092 or visit www.do-it.org.uk to search for volunteering near you

Cradley Cradley Sports Club Contact: 01886 880081 or visit www.cradleysportsclub.co.uk Cradley, Storridge & Mathon Royal British Legion Supports ex-service personnel Cradley Small Business Breakfast Contact: Miles Meager 01886 880964 or email milesmeager@mi-frame.co.uk Cradley, Mathon & Storridge Art Group Meet at Storridge Village Hall at 2pm.

Storridge WI Contact: Joan Prosser on 01886 880813 Cradley WI Contact: Maureen Sullivan on 01886 881045 Storridge Parish Church Contact: 01886 880348

Bosbury Mathon Mathon, Cradley & Storridge Tennis Club Contact: Mrs Pat Pugh on 01531 640682 or Bob Hamilton on 01684 540836 Mathon Parish Church Weekly services in the three Parish churches.

Mathon WI Contact: Margaret on 01886 880824

To promote your group: email sascha@allabout-local.com or call 01684 252242. More info on each group available on the website: www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

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Bosbury WI Contact: Diane Hodgson on 01531 640622 Bosbury Church Adults’ Choir Contact: Kate Cheetham 01531 641829 or email cheethamkj@gmail.com Bosbury Church Children’s Choir Contact: Kate Cheetham 01531 641829 or email cheethamkj@gmail.com

Bosbury Parish Church Contact: www.bosbury-church.org Bosbury Bellringers Contact: Frank Seabright on 01531 640252 or email frank@seabrightsolutions.co.uk Bosbury Beaver Scouts Contact Helen 01531 640371 helengadsby@hotmail.com The Bosbury Players Contact: Gill Andrews (Secretary) 01531 640410

Group News

Home-Start Herefordshire Home-Start Herefordshire urgently needs volunteers to support families in need in the Ledbury area. Alison Jones, the charity’s Marketing and Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator tells us more.

Our dedicated volunteers give support and friendship to families who might be struggling for a variety of reasons. They might be struggling with isolation, disability, depression, multiple birth, school issues or abuse. The volunteers help to put new strategies in place that can build new confidences and abilities and overcome difficult situations.

For the past 33 years, right here in Herefordshire, our non-profit making charity has been helping vulnerable and fragile families who find themselves in situations that have become too much to cope with. To continue that work we need help and more volunteers are urgently needed. Two or three hours of your time every week can make all the difference.

Colwall Colwall Pre-School Contact: Jane or Sandy on 07580 355359 or email wellandandwychepreschool@hotmail.com Colwall Cricket Club www.colwallcc.org.uk Colwall Greener Contact: Robin on 01684 540 284 or visit www.greener.colwall.info Colwall Orchard Group Contact: Helen Stace on 01684 540569 or visit www.colwallvillagegarden.org Colwall Rotary Club Contact: Alan Torbet on 01684 899227 or visit www.colwallrotary.org.uk Colwall Probus Club Contact: Mike Paulson 01684 540108 or email Colwallprobus@msn.com Colwall Bell Ringers Contact: Robin Riches 01684 541240

To become one of our team you need to have some parenting or teaching skills and be free to come on our training course. Driving is an advantage but not essential. We ask all potential volunteers to attend 40 hours of training at our office in Hereford where they learn about the ethos of Home-Start and to prepare them for their visits with families. During the training we get to know more about our volunteers, enabling us to match them suitably with a family in need. Once a volunteer starts to visit a family, the staff at Home-Start Herefordshire give constant support and guidance to both the family being supported and the volunteer.

If you feel you could help and are thinking about volunteering, our next preparation course starts on the 14th May. The course runs every Thursday for ten weeks and will cover many different aspect of life. The course is FREE but if you wish to do the course at an accredited level to gain credits for further education, the registration fee is £30. For more information please call 01432 371212 or email ali.homestart@gmail.com and you can read more about us on our website, www.homestart-herefordshire.co.uk

Colwall Village Playgroup Contact: Sarah Jarratt 01684 541643, sjjarratt@live.com Colwall Golfers Contact: Derek Turner on 01684 540318 Colwall Ladies Club Contact: Hazel Turner on 01684 541066, hazel.turner@homecall.co.uk Colwall Village Society Contact: Margaret Matthews on 01684 562245 The Chasers International Men of Steel Cricket Team Contact: Jamie 01684 541022 or 07977 115478 Wyche & Colwall Horticultural Society Contact: Margaret White 01684 540931 Colwall WI Contact: Cath Blackwell 01684 540020 Colwall Players Contact: www.colwallplayers.org Colwall Mothers’ Union Contact: Dorothy Lockyear on 01684 540608

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

37

Christopher F. Knock B.Sc. (Civil Engineering)

Manufacturers of Internal & External Blinds

Vertical • Roller • Pleated • Venetian Roman • Woodslat • Awnings • Canopies Replacement Fabrics Conservatory Blinds

Architectural & Planning Consultant 30 years experience All aspects of Planning, Building Regulations and Listed Building Consent Applications

01531 635462 chris@christopherknock.co.uk

window cleaning services

01684 574047

www.malvern-blinds.co.uk The Old Fire Station, Howsell Road Malvern WR14 1TF Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm, Sat 9am - 1pm

NEW Garden Waste Collection Service Only *per year

£45.00

Pure water fed pole system A prompt, reliable and friendly service Environmentally friendly

Locks & Glass

For a complete double-glazing

repair service

We are now collecting your garden waste in wheelie bins in Ledbury, Colwall, Cradley and Malvern Please email your postcode & contact number to

Hinges, handles, locks and security.

or text it to 07565 633 532 to register your interest.

Visit our shop at 73, Spring Lane, Malvern Link WR14 1AJ Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8.30-12.30

panddgreenwaste@gmail.com

P & D Green Waste Ltd t: 01905 22604 m: 07565 633 532 * Plus £10 one off registration charge.

26 Fortnightly collections www.panddgreenwaste.wordpress.com

38

01886 880741 Robert Lambert 07527 300158

Key cutting

We can supply and fit or for DIY

Signposted opposite Worcester College Construction Department

01684 567070 24 Hour LocKsmitH 07767 883639

PROPERTY WANTED IN COLWALL We are a retired couple, have sold our house, wish to downsize and buy in Colwall.

LOCAL OFFER

say ’hello’ today for your FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION with our ARCHITECT

We are seeking:• an easily maintained house or bungalow • new build, modern or in need of up-dating / refurbishment • a small(ish) garden or courtyard • walking distance of shops and railway station We have some flexibility, with up to approximately six months, to find and move to a new property.

We DESIGN • COST • BUILD • NEW BUILDS • LISTED BUILDINGS • TRADITIONAL OR MODERN • REFURBISHMENTS • CONVERSIONS • HOUSE REMODELLING

CHARTERED ARCHITECT Matthew Lewis Director

BA(Hons)Arch BArch PGDip Arch (Commendation)RIBA

If you can help, please telephone 01497 822911 or email nmehank@hotmail.co.uk

Invitation

Are you Thinking of Selling or Letting?

This is a personal invitation to receive a free market valuation of your property and to discuss all aspects of letting and selling your home.

All our staff have a wealth of knowledge of the local area and would be delighted to spend time discussing a marketing package best suited to you.

Contact us now: 01886 884634

07525 439096

To arrange a convenient appointment call our office on 01531 631177, email us at Ledbury@stookehillandwalshe.co.uk or visit our office at 14 The Homend, Ledbury HR8 1BT

Kree8 Ltd, The Glen, Cradley WR13 5NR

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

39

ACUPUNCTURE REFLEXOLOGY COSMETIC FACIAL ACUPUNCTURE

Wheel of life Centre Complementary Therapies for All Acupuncture Reflexology Homeopathy Shiatsu Counselling Massage TFH Kinesiology Energy Healing Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture Yoga Centre Pilates Classes Buddhist Meditation Interfaith Meetings Baby Massage Weight Management

MBAcC, MAR Former Nurse & Midwife Therapies to help with all conditions

078500 64684 01684 565586

www.jenniesheringham.co.uk

Reflexology Carol Clark FFR (Cert.) MFHT

At Mind, Body & Soul Therapy Centre in W Malvern & Newent Osteopaths Clinic or home visits

01684 565586

6 North Malvern Rd, Malvern WR14 4LT

www.wheeloflifecentre.co.uk

Jonathan Lyne

BSc (Hons) MSSCh MBChA

Chiropodist/Podiatrist HOME VISITING SERVICE All areas covered at times to suit you

For an appointment please call 07599 340 947 or 01684 891848 Health Professions Council registered

Couple and Relationship Counselling

Stress • Depression • Anxiety Anne Finlay-Baird Counselling

MA Counselling MBACP accred

07881 958566 www.counsellingandtherapy.co.uk

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with Jennie Sheringham

carolsfeet@gmail.com

07925 268466

www.carolsfeet.co.uk

FHT

Classes & Courses

New Class: Pure Relaxation – letting go of stress Wednesdays 10.30 – 11.30 am starting April 15th 6 week block £30, £7 single class Bethesda Physio Clinic, Ledbury Please contact Susanne on 01531 670907 / 07917 571649

Yoga with Jo Harper BWY Dip Yoga for All: Mondays 4.15pm at Holy Trinity Church Hall, Link Top, Malvern Wednesdays 11.15am at Inner Place, Ledbury Remedial Back Care Yoga: Mondays 6.30pm at The Fold, Bransford.

For advice and information: please contact Jo on 07976 882252 or via email at joyoga22@hotmail.com

Core Focus Pilates - Colwall Classes held on Wednesdays at Colwall Community Church: 1.30-2.25 / 2.30- 3.25 / 3.30-3.25: Pilates Fundamentals 6pm – 6.55: Office Pilates 7pm – 7.55: Commuter Pilates/Fitness Pilates For info & details on other classes contact Sue on 01684 540905 or 07506 131765, susanarmstrong73@yahoo.co.uk www.corefocuspilates.co.uk

McTimony

Chiropractic A Gentle and Effective Whole Body Treatment

by Joanna Cocking

Joanna Cocking

1 /2

p fo ri r cl n ce ie e off n w e ts r

Back, neck and shoulder pain Pain, discomfort and stiffness in joints Migraine Muscular aches Sports injuries Arthritic pain

Beacon Clinic On Portland Road Great Malvern Street Parking WR14 2TA 01684 210 615 07533 163 301

joanna.cocking@gmail.com www.joannacocking.co.uk

Here for all your Dog Training needs: Puppy Classes, Adult/Obedience Classes, One to One Sessions Contact Kerrie Smith on 07885 278778 or kerriesmith1@hotmail.com

ANNA

HANDMADE FINE JEWELLERY

SPECIALISING IN UNIQUE WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS

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To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

41

Well-Being

the biggest

frog

I sat facing a blank page for about an hour this morning. Occasionally I wrote a few words and then I deleted them. They didn’t feel like the beginning of anything worthwhile...

By Kaspa Thompson I wrote about my oldest cat sleeping at my feet. I wrote about the squirrel stealing peanuts from the bird feeder. I wrote about the new seedlings we have just planted out. And then I deleted all of the words and there was the blank page.

keep distracting myself - until this morning when I was faced with a blank page.

I opened my favourite social media sites and closed them again. I browsed the news headlines. I looked out of the window. I looked at the blank page.

Mark Twain said, “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.”

I thought a change of scene might help so I went and walked around the garden. It was cold and the sun was hiding behind grey clouds, and although I half-planned where new flower beds might be I didn’t think of anything to write about.

I came back inside and started to make a cup of tea. While I was waiting for the kettle to boil I remembered an old friend that I had been meaning to write to for a little while.

We used to be in regular contact but for reasons I don’t completely understand communication seemed to break down this year. We kept missing each other, arranging to meet and not quite managing it, and then we just stopped talking to each other…

For a while I thought I might hear something from him, and then I put it out of my mind and got on with all of the things I have to do: seeing clients, running a temple and running my mindfulness classes. Or at least I thought I had put it out of my mind, but every now and again I would find myself telling other friends about what had happened. Eventually I realised that I hadn’t really let this go at all and that’s when I decided to write to him.

That was sometime last week. I could have carved out time to write before today but the immediate demands on my time allowed me to

42

I couldn’t get started on this article because something else, the un-written letter, was getting in the way.

The un-written letter, that I was nervous about writing, was the biggest frog and I kept pushing it to the side of my plate.

I brought my cup of tea back up to my office and wrote the letter. As I wrote it the worries I had around how it might be received disappeared.

This friend and I have had a strong relationship in the past and I’m sure it will be received in a good spirit. I hope so at least.

Having swallowed the biggest frog I was able to sit down and write this article.

I’ve learnt this lesson many times before, but I still sometimes find a way of pushing the biggest frog to one side.

If there is something to be done – get on and do it. Putting it off can take just as much energy and can stop you from doing anything else.

What’s your biggest frog today?

Kaspa Thompson is a psychotherapist, mindfulness teacher and Buddhist priest.

For info on therapy and mindfulness classes see: www.kaspathompson.co.uk and for his local Buddhist group see: www.amidamandala.com

Andrew G Mott

Business Consultant & Accountant Capabilities Include: • Accounts preparation & submission • Book-keeping • Company Secretarial • Forecasting • Management information to customer requirements • Problem solving • Spreadsheets • VAT

Telephone : 01684 572956

Email : agmott@supanet.com

Clinical Hypnotherapist

Gundi Nye

ayurveda • yoga • spa • retreat

DHP, HPD, MNCH Reg.

A local boutique Wellbeing Spa & Yoga Retreat

Day Spa

• Regular yoga classes • Day Spa • 2-5 day retreats • Ayurvedic massages & treatments • Freshly prepared vegetarian meals Classes - mindfulness, cooking, ayurveda, knit2gether Rooms for hire: workshops, away days including meals For more details:

01886 880859 or email: retreat@theclovermill.com

www.theclovermill.com

Helping you to reduce stress levels, increasing positivity and wellbeing, to move forward out of Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, Low Self-Esteem or achieving Weight Loss, etc.

Number One Hair & Beauty 1 Broads Bank Great Malvern WR14 2HP Call:

07586 445 120 01684 568 110

Gundinye@gmail.com

www.positivelifechange.co.uk Also offering Craniosacral Therapy for all ages

LIMITED TIME ONLY

£15 Initial Consultation

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

43

Free

Assessment

Back to work?

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to unlock your child’s potential, building their confidence and independent study skills.

Then let us care for your children, in a homely, nurturing and friendly environment

Contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment:

Malvern Study Centre Lynne Lambeth-Fradgley 01684 560461

Established in 1986

www.playhousemalvern.co.uk kumon.co.uk

01684 563379 24 Abbey Road Malvern WR14 3HD

Serenity Professional Hairdressing is a Paul Mitchell approved salon with a fantastic range of products and styling equipment.

We are currently looking for another stylist, please pop in to see us or ring 01531 633755 if you are interested.

Introducing Sarah, our young professional:

Our friendly and bubbly stylist will help you unwind and relax in our calm and serene salon.

She also offers nail services to complete your time with us.

12 High Street Ledbury HR8 1DS 44

Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 9 - 5 Tue & Thu 9 - 7.30 Saturday 9 - 4

Special Offer with Sarah: full head tint and cut & blowdry for only £50

F.W. Spilsbury David T. Spilsbury

INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTOR EST. 1875

Caring for bereaved families over five generations

• 24 Hour Service • Pre Paid Funeral Plans • Private Chapels of Rest

Let our keep you experts tidy and r home clean!

Weekly Cleans • Spring Cleans • Carpet Cleaning • Move-in/Move-out cleans We also look after the cleaning of Offices, Halls and Communal areas Contact us on

01531 63171 or 07933 137958 blisscleaningledbury@gmail.com

Tel: 01684 892777 Fax: 01684 577075

www.fwspilsbury.co.uk fwspilsbury@btinternet.com

12 Upper Howsell Road Malvern WR14 1TL

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

45

Garden

Green Fingers As new shoots appear in the garden, so too do the creepy crawlies that love to feed on them. At Caves Folly Nursery in Colwall, Bridget has some timely advice.

www.cavesfolly.com 01684 540631 Spring is here and the flora and fauna are busy with the important issues of reproducing. Here at the nursery we are up to our ears in plants of all shapes and sizes and enjoying the Spring buzz.

The ‘grow your own’ theme becomes more popular each year, with our organic vegetable plant sales increasing at the nursery and at the RHS Spring Festival. This is not only good news for our veg sales but it is also encouraging that so many people want to grow and eat their own produce.

It is easy enough to germinate and plant but not so easy to stop pests destroying young plants once they are planted out. So I thought this month I would give some tips for aftercare in the vegetable garden.

It is important to have a healthy soil with lots of organic matter, this will help produce healthy plants which will be less vunerable to diseases.

Regularly feed plants with seaweed based liquid feed to make them stronger.

Not all slugs and snails damage plants. Some feed on dead organic matter and aid composting.

It is not possible to eliminate molluscs so try to avoid conditions that they favour. Planting through a membrane can reduce slug and snail damage and plant vunerable plants in pots.

Copper tape around the rim of the pot will protect containers. Don’t water in the evening if possible and encourage predators such as frogs, toads, newts, hedgehogs and birds. You can even collect slugs and snails by torchlight - it beats TV anyday and it’s just as gruesome! Beer traps are also very successful.

46

Biological controls, if used in the right conditions, can be very efficient. A microscopic nematode called Phasmarhabditis hemaphrodita can be watered into moist soil regularly with good results for eliminating those tiny slugs that damage early seedlings. With all biological controls it is vital that the conditions are favourable when you apply them. With slug treatment the soil has to be more than 5 celsius for them to be active.

Biological controls are also good for controling Caterpillars, Leatherjackets, Vine Weevil, Chafer grubs, Aphids, Red spider mite, Mealygug, Scaridfly and Scale. Go to www.greengardener. co.uk website to find lots of useful information and buy biological controls.

We are busy preparing for our 30th RHS Spring Festival. The show garden has to be planted up and half the nursery transported over to the showground, so I had better get back to work.

A huge amount of effort and passion goes into flower shows so why not come and support us and all the other growers between 7th and 10th May.

All the best, Bridget

Now working at The Art Cabin, Caves Folly Nursery, Colwall.

Designing and making etched glass for architecture and exquisitely produced batik paintings on Indonesian cotton.

She works to commission.

Batik Workshop Vouchers also available £70 for a programme of workshops in 2015 - a fun, inspiring day creating your own batik, includes light lunch.

Gift vouchers for mounted limited edition batik prints available from £25 Limited edition signed prints available and beautiful greetings cards

Appointment by arrangement

m@eekbatik.com | 07843 685028 www.batikandglass.co.uk

MCB Landscapes

Garden Inspiration

Yew Tree House, Storridge, Malvern WR13 SEY mcblandscapes@googlemail.com Fully qualified, insured and experienced specialists in all areas of tree surgery, including: crown raising reductions large tree dismantling overhanging branches removal of dangerous trees hedge maintenance woodland management stump grinding re-planting

design, construction, planting (est. 1999)

be inspired… www.gardeninspiration.co.uk talk to Christian Dowle today about your garden development:

01684 540 530 | 07932 788609

100% of waste recycled into: Firewood Woodchip Soil conditioner

01886 880959 | 07721 384538 To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

47

Guy Sterry

Garden Design & Landscaping Established 1997

Used Mowers & Strimmers in Stock chainsaws • strimmers • push mowers ride on lawn mowers • tractors all aspects of garden and farm equipment repairs • service • parts • sharpening HIRE SERVICE AVAILABLE

www.malvernmowersandtractors.co.uk Unit 3B, Spring Lane North, Malvern WR14 1BU

01684 892856 07799 642481

Complete Design & Construction Service Older & Country Properties a Speciality Driveways Paving Decking Cobble Laying Walling Drystone Walling Mosaics

Water Features Ponds Timber Structures Planting Fencing Rockeries and other services

email guy@landscaping.orangehome.co.uk

01684 891831 07973 772596 27 Meadow Rd • Malvern • WR14 2RZ

CAPABILITY LANDSCAPES 20 Years Experience resulting in Quality Landscape Design & Construction We specialise in Timber Decking Fencing Patios Block Paving

Driveways Gravel Pathways Garden Maintenance & Clearance

Portfolio available - Free Quotations John Revell Mobile: 07952 443 632 Evenings - Malvern: 01684 564502 48

Competition For a professional service and a free, no obligation quotation contact Martin Richards Hedgecutting Fencing Paving and Patios Decking Sleeper Walls etc Malvern 01684 491182 | 07967 123998 mjrlandscaping@tiscali.co.uk

We have three pairs of tickets to the RHS Malvern Spring Festival to give away to All About West of the Hills readers!

For the chance to win a pair of tickets, simply answer the following question: Where is the RHS Malvern Spring Festival held?

Email the answer plus your name, postcode and phone number to competition@allabout-local.com by Thursday 16 April 2015.

The winners will be drawn from the entries and notified by Friday 17 April.

Good luck!

For terms & conditions see our website www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

49

Recipe

Flourless Chocolate Fudge Brownie Preheat oven to 170째C Grease and line a 23cm square baking tin

Ingredients

This recipe was kindly provided by Neil from The Nest near Ledbury, a Family Friendly Deli Cafe serving local and Artisan produce.

You can find The Nest on the Hereford Road, a few miles outside Ledbury.

50

225g dark chocolate, chopped 225g unsalted butter 200g golden caster sugar 3 medium eggs, beaten 1 heaped tea spoon vanilla extract 175g ground almonds

1. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heat proof bowl suspended over a pan of simmering water then set aside to cool slightly 2. In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs and vanilla then stir into the cooled chocolate mixture.

3. Fold in the ground almonds then scrape into your prepared tin. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top has set but the middle is still gooey so that batter sticks to an inserted skewer, they will continue to cook after you remove them from the oven.

4.Take the brownies out of the oven and allow to cool completely before turning out and slicing into thick squidgy slabs.

Items available:

• • • • • • • • •

Plant Hire; Diggers & Dumpers Access & Support Building & Decorating Concreting & Compacting Breaking & Drilling Lifting & Material Handling Plumbing & Pumping Lighting & Power Gardening & Landscaping

01684 217020 07891 489 622 ready-rent@mail.com UNIT 10, CLIFTON CENTRE SPRING LANE SOUTH MALVERN WR14 1BJ

For a professional service

t: 01531 671000

WWW.READY-RENT.CO.UK

www.qualityheatingsolutions.co.uk

Celebrate Spring with us at our new home at The Nest, Ledbury See our Display Gardens, New Spring Ranges & Plans for the Year Hundreds of plants...

Trees, Shrubs, Climbers, Clematis, Friendly advice always Roses, Herbs, Alpines, Cottage Garden Plants, available from Seeds, etc Kate, Mark and Rae

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

51

Peter Cooks Bread Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or a complete beginner, there’s a chance to learn more about creating the perfect bread in the company of an award-winning local bakery.

As well as supplying local shops, delis and cafés, Peter Cooks Bread is now running regular courses as part of their mission to share the joys of Real Bread.

The bakery is always a hive of activity on a Friday morning. Peter Cook and his business partner Shona Kelly have been working since three o’clock in the morning, preparing bread for a busy weekend. ‘The dough for this bread is three days in the making’ says Peter, holding up one of his Ledbury loaves. ‘We create the first dough, known as the sponge, made with just a little bit of yeast, and slowly build it up until it’s ready.’

Peter & Shona like to describe their Ledbury Loaf as the ultimate everyday white bread. ‘Spending a longer period making bread results in better flavour’ says Peter, ‘and it also keeps for longer.

This also allows better fermentation which helps to break down the gluten. Many people with an intolerance to gluten even find they can enjoy our bread.’

As well as Malthouse and Wholemeal loaves, the company loves to incorporate local ingredients wherever possible. There’s a Malvern Sour bread made using spring water from the hills and a Cider Crumb bread using Oliver’s Dry Cider from just up the road. There’s a multitude of other speciality breads using ingredients as diverse as walnuts, seeds and rye.

Peter was Head Baker at Price & Sons in Ludlow for more than twenty years, at a time when the town was building its reputation as a food destination. He moved south to our area when he saw a similar pattern emerging in and around Ledbury. Last year Peter Cooks Breads scooped the top prize at the Tiptree World Bread Awards for a Ciabatta as well as two other awards for the Focaccia and Cider Crumb breads. Now the company is passing on its knowledge and skills through courses held at the bakery at The Hop Pocket in Bishops Frome.

52

‘It’s a chance for people to see what we do’ says Peter, ‘as well as gain the confidence and knowledge to make better bread. There’s a beginners course where you will learn how to shape the bread and the importance of ingredients as well as plenty of hands on experience.’

‘Perhaps the most important thing is to learn how dough should feel’ says Shona. ‘Many people make the mistake of adding more flour because they think it’s too sticky.’

There’s also a course where you’ll learn how to make sourdough bread, which uses just three ingredients and relies on naturally occurring yeast for its fermentation. ‘It’s a simple bread which is very complicated to get right’ according to Peter. For more competent bakers there’s an advanced breadmaking course where you will learn more about the process of spending three days preparing the dough and creating the perfect loaf.

You can find dates for the latest workshops and where you can buy their bread at www.petercooksbread.co.uk, email hello@petercooksbread.co.uk or otherwise please feel free to pop in and meet Peter and Shona at their bakery at the Hop Pocket Craft Centre in Bishops Frome.

Greg Davies Wood Design Bespoke Furniture Internal Joinery External Joinery

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t replace the Frames... just the Panes!

Broken or Damaged Windows?

Faulty Hinges, Handles or Locks?

Want the latest energy saving glass?

5 year guarantee on new double glazing.

Greg Davies Wood Design specialise in the design and manufacture of bespoke wooden products with over twenty years experience in design and wood crafts. Whether you are replacing like for like or looking for a complete redesign, we can provide a solution that will fit your needs and your budget.

Tel: 01886 880028 Mob: 07966 755669 Email: gregory.davies@btinternet.com Web: www.gregdavieswooddesign.co.uk Lyndhurst, Bosbury Road, Cradley, Nr Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 5JA

...we make saving money perfectly clear...

Call Freephone

0800 61 21118

www.cloudy2clear.com

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

53

Malvern Town News

The Great Malvern Food Festival

The Malvern Munch Food Walk

Monday 25th May 2015 in the grounds of Great Malvern Priory

Sunday 24th May

Now in its fourth year, The Great Malvern Food Festival will have even more to see and do this year. Taking place on Spring Bank Holiday Monday, the festival has quickly established a loyal following from both locals and visitors.

A cornerstone of the event is the fact that its all about local food producers. From The Friday Beer Company to Peter Cooks Bread, all of those taking part are locally based. There will more than sixty stalls to browse, delicious food, drink and local produce to sample as well as cookery demonstrations and workshops.

This is an event for the whole family and there will be plenty of on street entertainment including accordion music and circus tricks and comedy from Monsieur Doo, a French Chef & Onion seller.

Throughout the day, guitarist and singer Madi Stimpson will be playing a wide range of music ranging from Django Reinhardt to Chet Atkins.

The day before the Food Festival takes place is the Malvern Munch, a 7 mile walk over and around the Hills.

It offers walkers the chance to taste great food and drink whilst listening to live music at stops along the way. The event is the perfect combination of local produce, enjoyed in the countryside in which is was made.

The event was so popular last year it sold out, and tickets for this year’s walk are already selling fast. The organisers say enquiries for tickets are coming from as far afield as London although many local people also take part.

Tickets are £20 for adults and £12 for children and are only available from Malvern Hills Tourist Information Centre on Church Street.

They can be booked by popping in or calling (01684) 892289

For updates please visit www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

Y Great Malvern Food Festival Presents

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 25TH MAY 2015

MALVERN

MA

sunday 24th may 2015

sun

M

MUN H

Enjoy a leisurely 7 mile walk around the Malvern Hills, and taste the best in local food and drink whilst listening to live music at stops along the way.

RCH

rink

Great

The

GREAT

malvern FOOD FESTIVAL Taking place in the grounds of

Tickets: £20 £12 Child

GREAT MALVERN PRIORY CHURCH

from Malvern Tourist Information Centre10:00am - 5:30pm

and around the town centre 10:00am - 5:30pm

Enjoy mile Malv taste food listen stops

Ticke £12 C

from M Inform

Malvern The very best in Malvern local drink very best in local food and Hillsdrink Hills food andThe

District District www.visitthemalverns.org/foodfest foodfest www.visitthemalverns.org/foodfest Council Council www.malvernhills.gov.uk

54

www.malvernhills.gov.uk

Helping both men and women deal with the trauma of a relationship that has irretrievably broken down.

By Malvern Branch Co-ordinator: Gill Owen I got involved with Divorce Recovery Workshop (DRW) 3 years ago when a friend who had been on the course found it so inspirational she wanted to set up a local branch in Malvern, which is the only branch in Worcestershire.

The workshops are run by experienced volunteers who have all been through the breakdown of a long term relationship and attended the workshops. Although my own divorce was a long time ago, I had to attend the workshops before becoming a facilitator.

I was amazed to discover just how many emotions I had buried. Once I had completed the workshop I knew I had come to terms with my past and could let it go. When you go through a breakup you don’t always realise how much grief, resentment and anger you hold on to or how emotionally and physically exhausting it can be.

How can Divorce Recovery Workshop help?

The breakdown of a long term relationship is a form of bereavement; yet unlike the death of a partner, you are often expected to carry on as normal. Whilst friends and family can be supportive, they don’t always understand how you feel and even your best friend will eventually have had enough of you going over and over what has happened!

Anyone who has been through the heartache of an irretrievable breakup is welcome at DRW, even if you are going through the divorce or if it was years ago. DRW will help

you cope with the many different emotions: shock, disbelief, rejection, anger, bitterness and guilt. You will gain a better understanding of what you are going through and be offered strategies to help you cope.

What actually happens at a workshop?

The course consists of six sessions covering: • Is this really happening to me?

• Coping with your 'Ex' • Assuming new responsibilities • Letting go and forgiveness • Family matters • Thinking about new relationships Participants watch a DVD on each topic and then divide into small groups with 2 facilitators per group. Everything said in the group is strictly confidential and no one is pressured to talk if they don’t want to.

When is the next one taking place?

On Tuesday evenings on 14th, 21st and 28th April and 5th, 12th and 19th May, with coffee at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Is there a charge for the Workshop and where does it take place?

DRW is a non-profit making registered charity but to cover our running costs we ask participants to pay £60 for the entire course.

The venue is in Churchdown Road, Malvern and there is a free car park.

If you would like more information or to reserve a place please contact me, Gill, on 01684 560394 or email: malvern@drw.org.uk or Pam on 01432 820316

www.drw.org.uk

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

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Notice board BOSBURY BLUEBELLS Monday 4 May between 2 and 5pm A Bluebell walk in the grounds of Bosbury House by kind permission of Nat and Laura Hone In aid of Holy Trinity Church Bosbury and Bosbury Parish Hall.

Classic and Vintage Car display, Live Music and Afternoon Tea with homemade cakes available.

Adults £5, children under 16 free A great Bank Holiday afternoon for all the family

Clothes, furniture, electrical and other small appliances, toys and bicycles all repaired FREE OF CHARGE Sat 18 April & 16 May 10am - 2pm Malvern Cube, Albert Rd North

COLWALL C

RICKET CLU

B

Friday April 24th is registrati on evening for children cricket from ’s 6.30pm at th e club

Bands in the Park Take Two Friendly Social Club for Singles Over 50 We meet every Wednesday evening for a social get together at a pub in the Worcester, Malvern and Ledbury areas. We also meet at weekends for meals, skittles, walks and dancing etc. New members will always be made welcome.

For further details please ring 01684 891583 / 01905 23857 or taketwoworcestershire@gmail.com

S present

A Warwickshire Test

by April De Angeimony lis Thursday 28th to Saturday 30th M ay at 7.30 pm in Co lwall Village Hall This drama

is based on a rea l village commun near Stratford an ity d portrays the hu ge changes that the 20th centu ry brought to a rur of life. It focuses al on the loves, traum way as and disputes of a partic ular family, who rem ain central to the actio n throughout.

Updates & photos: www.allaboutmalv ernhills.com

56

al.com james@allabout-loc 01684 252 242

Schedule will appear at www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

Come and Try Short Mat Bowling with Ledbury Short Mat Bowling Club

at Ledbury Community Hall Mondays and Wednesdays from 9.15am A wonderful sport for all ages and abilities from beginner to experienced bowlers

COLWALL PLAYER

Small Message? !

It’s free for groups

Sunday afternoons in Priory Park Begining on 10th May

June Deadline:

Wed 13 May

The first session is free, then £2.50 per session which includes refreshments

For information call (01531) 632454

Three Counties Art History Group welcome you to a Summer’s study day Three Illustrated lectures on ‘WOMEN’S WORK’ Women artists from Renaissance times to present day on Monday 18th May 2015 from 10.30am – 3.30 pm at Malvern Library’s Meeting Room

Details call Fiona 01531 890249 or www.threecountiesarthistory.org.uk

A place for sport in the heart of Malvern since 1907

A place for sport in the heart of Malvern since 1907

Manor Park is one of the premier sports clubs and tennis academies in Worcestershire and offers the perfect setting to enjoy sport, keep fit, relax and socialise.

Our facilities include:

Manor Park Membership Rates

A comfortable and friendly clubhouse 14 outdoor tennis courts (4 floodlit) 3 indoor tennis courts

Tennis

4 squash courts 6 indoor bowling rinks A flat green bowling green An archery field

Squash/ Racketball

A brand new café bar overlooking the courts and hills And all of this nestles in a beautiful setting beneath the Malvern Hills.

Indoor Bowls

A true members’ club With over 100 years as a private club, it is still very happily run for and by its members, a fact reflected in the friendly annual subscriptions.

Outdoor Bowls

For membership enquiries contact: The Club Manager, Manor Park

E: manorparkclub@btconnect.com

Archery

Adult

£225

Family Students (under 25yrs) Junior (under 18yrs)

£435 £75 £50

Mini (under 10yrs)

£10

Adult

£208

Family Students (under 21yrs) Under 18 (under 18yrs)

£395 £58 £34

Junior (under 13yrs)

£20

Single

£58

Registered Disabled Intermediate (under 21yrs) Junior (under 16yrs)

£28

Mini (under 10yrs)

£10

Single

£61

Married Intermediate (under 21yrs) Junior (under 16yrs)

£110

First year concession

50%

Single**

£45

Junior

£23

£40 £30

£36 £15

**Manor Park fee only

Manor Park, Albert Road North, Malvern WR14 2TL T: 01684 574 010 | W: manorparkmalvern.com To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

57

Notice board The Ale House Arts a series of talks at The Ale House, Colwall, in aid of the church 9th April – Saint Mary Magdalene in Scripture, Myth and Art

Colwall Village Society Annual General Meeting

Monday April 20th 2015 7.30pm at Colwall Village Hall The AGM is followed by a talk from Tim Dixon entitled ‘From Little Pips – the Story of Colwall’s Orchards’

All are welcome, non-members £2.00

16th April – A Literary Trail around The Malverns 30th April – R.S. Thomas 14th May – Who Wrote The Complete Works of William Shakespeare?

Tickets available by calling (01684) 540330 or from the Colwall office of John Goodwin

Bosbury Casual Quilters A new social quilting group meeting Mondays from 7.45pm A friendly, relaxed atmosphere to meet and sew whatever you want All welcome, from beginner to professional.

For details please call 07854 863312

The Rotary Club of

A Charity Concer

Ledbury Presents

t at The Market Th eatre, Ledbury on Saturday 4th April at 7.30pm Featuring Deborah Rose, Ca rlos Alonso and Liv ia King Admission £10, un der 12s free Proceeds to Acorns entry For tickets call 0796 7 517125 The Master’s Hous or visit e

Juan Martin World Famous Flamenco Guitarist performs with Chaparro De Malaga at Hellens Manor, Much Marcle on Monday May 11th at 8pm

Colwall Table Tennis Club Come and play at a friendly club Every Tuesday between 7 & 9pm For details call (01684) 540725

CODDINGTON W

ILDFLOWER WALK

SATURDAY 30 M AY. Start between 10 .30am and 12.30p m finishing by 3pm

An enjoyable day out, raising funds for All Saints Church. Walks of 2 miles and 4.2 mi les, starting and ending at the Churc h. There are wond erful views, and walkers get a simple guide to the wild flowers en route. Refresh ments available at the church throughout the da y.

58

For details call

01531 641974

Tickets: £16, call (01684) 892277

BRUNCH & BUBBLY in aid of Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign at The Colwall Park Hotel Tuesday 19th May from 10.30am including a brunch and bubbly, spot prizes, demonstrations, mini spa treatments & a raffle Suggested donation: £20

To reserve a place please call (01684) 540739

Small Me s It’s free fo sage? r groups james@al ! lab out-local.c om 01684 252 242

June Deadline:

Wed 13 May

Conversation 13 Women exhibit Glass, Jewellery, Paintings, Pottery and Sculpture 25th March to 17th May Through their work, workshops and talks they invite you to explore themes of memory and reminiscence, connection, testament, emotive reaction and freedom.

The exhibition will include stained glass, sculpture, paintings, prints, pottery, jewellery and more and is a wonderful opportunity to buy unique items of work. The artists bring a wide range of skills and experience to this exhibition and include: Avril Farley, porcelain potter, jeweller; Carol James, silversmith, archaeologist specialising in rock art; Catrin Davies, glass artist, painter; Davina Kirkpatrick, glass artist, printmaker, community based public art projects, residencies in schools, doctoral student; Isabella Kielt, painter; Jane Spray, landscape artist, potter; Mariette Voke, painter; Mollie Meager, stained glass artist, illustrator; Rowan McOnegal, stained glass artist and painter; Sue Carr, porcelain ceramic artist; Tamsin Abbott, stained glass artist; Valerie McLean, painter, printer and book artist; Veronica Gosling, painter, sculptor, illustrator, pot decorator.

Please come to the opening on Sunday, 29th March, 2pm–5 pm with many of the artists and music.

Home End Farm, Stiffords Bridge, Cradley, Malvern WR13 5NW

blue-ginger

01886 880240 | sue@blue-ginger.com | www.blue-ginger.com To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

59

April

fri

3

fri

10

Flicks in the Sticks presents Mr Turner at Colwall Village Hall. A biopic of the famous artist starring Timothy Spall.

Film starts at 7.30pm and showing at Bosbury Flicks in The Sticks on 17th April at Bosbury Parish Hall

What’s on May

fri

1

Malvern Well Dressing Festival dozens of wells and springs decorated around the hills, continues over the Bank Holiday weekend See www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

sun

Eastnor Chilli Festival Continues on Monday for details and tickets call (01531) 633160 See www.eastnorcastle.com

thu

RHS Malvern Spring Festival at The Three Counties Showground, continues until Sunday For tickets call (01684) 230127

fri

Film: A Most Wanted Man Bosbury Flicks in the Sticks at Bosbury Parish Hall at 7.30pm, entry £5

Comedy Evening at Cradley Royal British Legion Club, 8pm start Tickets £8 from (01886) 880552

sat

Drop-In Musical Marathon at St James’ Church West Malvern raising money to restore the organ Book a slot by calling (01684) 565052

sat

Colwall Village Society presents its new book, Bygone Colwall at a launch event at Colwall Park Hotel, 11am

sat

Malvern Walking Festival nine days of guided walks for all abilities Info & booking call Malvern Tourist Information Centre (01684) 892289

sat

Plant Sale at Cradley Royal British Legion Club 11am until 2pm

sat

sat

NCT Nearly New Sale 10.45 am at The Dome, Imperial Rd, Malvern Good quality used baby and children’s clothing, equipment, toys & more

Malvern Vintage and Retro Fair on Abbey Road, 10am -4pm Browse antique and vintage items, clothes, books, jewellery and more

sat

11

wed

15

sat

18

18

25 25

Understanding Your Dog Through the Social Behaviour of Wolves a talk at West Malvern Village Hall, 2.30pm Raising funds to restore the church organ Open Afternoon at Litle Malvern Court & Gardens 2.15pm-5pm, open every Weds and Thurs until 23rd July, entry £7 See www.littlemalverncourt.co.uk

sun

ElectrAA! Electric Car Event in Malvern Priory Park and at Malvern Theatres 1pm onwards

sun

St Georges Day Civic Parade in Malvern from 1pm, parade from Priory Park to the Priory Church, via the Abbey Gateway and down Church Street.

For details see www.allaboutmalvernhills.com

26 26 tue

28

60

Malvern Jazz Weekend with Bryan Corbett, Dom Franks and many others, continues Saturday See malvernjazzweekend.co.uk

Lambs and Livelihoods: Guided Walk on the Hills learning about the role of livestock in Conservation with Malvern Hills Conservators For booking call (01684) 892002

3 7

15 16

23 23

Country & Farmers Market Days Home-made, home-grown & hand-crafted Ledbury Country Market Fridays, 8.30am –1pm, St Katherine’s Hall, High Street, Ledbury Malvern Country Market Fridays, 9am–12.15pm, Lyttleton Rooms, Church Street, Malvern Malvern Farmers Market - 3rd Saturday: 18 Oct & 15 Nov, 9am–2pm, Abbey Road, Malvern Ledbury Farmers Market 4th Friday every month, Next to the Market Hall, Ledbury, 9am - 2pm The Fold Market Every 4th Sunday of each month at The Fold, New House Farm, Bransford, Worcester WR6 5JB 10am - 2pm

Promote your June/July events: email james@allabout-local.com or call 01684 252 242 by Wednesday 13 May 2015 at the latest.

FREE

for groups

Garden Open: Little Malvern Court Reopens for Easter Little Malvern Priory Flower Festival MPB 1/4 ad 3.15_Layout 1 10/03/2015 09:39 Page 1 Monday 4th May 2-5pm Admission £6 children 50p Teas, Plant Stall, Book Stall Beautiful Gardens - WR14 4JN Assistance dogs welcome

DYNASTIC ART

IMPORTERS OF ART AND CLOTHING FROM THE FAR EAST

NEW LINES FOR SPRING FROM

BRAKEBURN and BRAINTREE ARE NOW IN STOCK

THE COURTYARD, 10 BELLE VUE TERRACE, MALVERN WR14 4PZ www.dynastic-art.com 077602 600 64

Eggsperience Easter at Eastnor Fri 3rd – Mon 6th April

Our legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle and grounds, chocolate for all taking part!

Buy

discou nted

Chilli Festival

tickets on-lin e

Sun 3rd – Mon 4th May

All things chilli to try and buy! Live music, hot food and the legendary Chilli Eating Competition!

Vintage Family Fun Sun 24th – Mon 25th May

A nostalgic family fun day with steam engines, tea tent, garden games and a vintage carousel.

Visit website for full events list

EASTNORCASTLE.COM 01531 633160

To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

61

Malvern Theatres News

The Importance of Being Earnest

BY OSCAR WILDE STARRING DAVID SUCHET as LADY BRACKNELL Prior to a West End run, David Suchet will star as Lady Bracknell in Oscar Wilde’s much loved and exhilarating masterpiece The Importance of Being Earnest at Malvern Theatres from Monday 25th to Saturday 30th May. Wilde’s superb satire on Victorian manners is one of the funniest plays in the English language – the delightful repartee and hilarious piercing of hypocrisy and pomposity can still make you laugh out loud.

Written shortly before Wilde fell foul of society’s unbending condemnation, The Importance of Being Earnest fizzes with wit as he delights in debunking social pretensions. Two bachelor friends, upper crust dandy Algernon Moncrieff and the most reliable John Worthing J.P., lead double lives to court the attentions of the desirable Gwendolyn Fairfax and Cecily Cardew. The gallants must then grapple with the uproarious consequences of their ruse, and with the formidable Lady Bracknell.

David Suchet is one of Britain’s most respected actors on both stage and screen. Best known for his title role in television’s Poirot, his most recent stage credits include Long Day’s Journey Into Night and All My Sons in the West End. Winner of an International Emmy award for his performance in BBC drama Maxwell, he has been nominated for numerous Olivier, Tony and BAFTA awards throughout his career, and was awarded the CBE in 2010.

Monday 25 - Saturday 30 May 2015 Malvern Theatres Evenings daily at 7.30pm, Wednesday and Saturday matinee at 2.30pm £19.60 - £36.40 01684 892277 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/events/event/ the-importance-of-being-earnest-2014/

62

Competition

Win a pair of tickets to ‘The Importance of being Earnest’ on Wed 27 May or Fri 29 May at 7.30pm Who was the author of The Importance of Being Earnest?

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

by Thursday 30 April 2015.

The winners will be drawn from the entries and notified by Friday 1 May 2015.

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

What’s on June

wed

3

Heartstart at Wellington Heath Memorial Hall 10.30am, a two hour course learning life-saving first aid Booking essential, 01531 634333

To advertise here call now: 07783 871838

/allaboutmalvernhills

@allaboutmalvern

PRIOR TO THE WEST END

MONDAY 25 SATURDAY 30 MAY

malvern-theatres.co.uk 01684 892277 To advertise please call: Julie on 07783 871838 or email julie@allabout-local.com

63

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ASK

A GOOD NIGHTS

SLEEP?

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We’ll help find your perfect mattress

We stock a huge choice of beds & mattresses

Once you’ve found your perfect mattress, our team will deliver & assemble it. Get your peace of mind.

Tel: 01684

573823

www.francisofmalvern.co.uk E: info@francisofmalvern.co.uk

64

Bed Store: 275 Worcester Road Malvern WR14 1AE

Flooring Store: Furnishing Store: 128 Worcester Road 237 Worcester Road Malvern WR14 1AE Malvern WR14 1AE