All About West of the Hills January 2011

In this edition: Stargazing in Mathon Hop on an Electric bike Win a Health MOT The Colwall Wassail

www.allabout-local.com

Free!

HANLEY INTERIORS South End Lane, Mathon, WR13 5PB

Email anne@hanleyinteriors.co.uk

Telephone 01684 540122

Quality handsewn curtains, blinds and soft furnishings from our own workroom.

Interior Design Service, Fabrics, Wallpapers and much more.

Anne & Peter Haywood offer a comprehensive Ord e and highly reliable service tailored to every r or Ma fabric individual requirement. rch o 201 r wa Please telephone for an appointment either at the studio 1 a llpa p nd in Mathon or in your own home. we er du r wil l pa ing J y th an, e V Feb www.hanleyinteriors.co.uk AT

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Editor’s message

Welcome to the January edition of All About ‘West of the Hills’.

January 2011 Published and edited by: Sascha McDonald All About Local Magazines Ltd sascha@allabout-local.com 07906 573352 www.allabout-local.com Photo front page: The Orion Nebula, taken by Chris Baddiley from his balcony.

Graphic Design & Layout: All About Magazines Editorial: Sascha - 07906 573352 Advertising: Tina Palmer - 07952 591031 Distribution: All About West of the Hills is distributed to 2,800 homes and businesses Booking Deadline: For February - 13 January

In the middle of a cold & gloomy winter, there’s lots of inspiration in this month’s magazine to brighten up January. The cold weather of December could lead to hefty heating bills in January, but fortunately there’s all sorts of advice to hand. On Page 16 local company Clover is telling us about the benefits of double glazing. Colwall Greener, a local environmental group, works hard to help us improve the energy efficiency of our homes. They offer help and advice for absolutely free, not a bad offer at all! Following the success of their car share scheme, they’ve now extended it to electric bikes, which make cycling in our hilly part of the world much more or a joy.

Finally, if your Resolution for 2011 is to sort out your financial situation then take a look at the centre of the magazine where Smith Weale Associates, a local firm of independent financial advisers might be able to help you out.

Happy New Year!

Sascha

Contents Features 6 Pitman Training 8 Local Astronomy 16 Energy Efficiency 19 Magic Moments Day Nursery 20 Smith Weale Associates 31 Wassailing

Regulars 12 Health: Win a Health MOT! 22 All About...the Electric Bike Loan Scheme 28 Notice Board 30 What’s On in January 34 Green Fingers 36 Community Pages 38 Index

Domestic Commercial Industrial

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To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

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0800 0523804 info@hughesmedia.co.uk www.hughesmedia.co.uk Orleton House, Worcester, WR6 6SU

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

01531 635462 chris@christopherknock.co.uk

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NEW YEAR, NEW HORIZONS

GRADUATES, SCHOOL LEAVERS, CAREER CHANGERS, RETURNERS TO WORK IN FACT ANYONE WHO WANTS TO GET THE PITMAN ADVANTAGE ON THEIR CVS. After nearly three years in Worcester we are very pleased to announce that over 350 clients have followed their dreams and with our help have attained success by gaining the ‘PITMAN ADVANTAGE™’ Pitman Training Worcester have clients from all walks of life but they all have one thing in common – an ambition to succeed and enjoy the finer things of life. These include: a satisfying job, the possibility of better holidays – in fact anything that makes life that little bit easier! When we look back over the time since we opened in 2008 we have had clients who have started (or changed) careers; avoided redundancy; rebuilt their confidence after being made redundant; have given recent graduates the competitive edge over other candidates at interview. Some clients have even gained the skills to keep up with their children’s competence with IT! People who gain the Pitman Advantage™ are buying into training offered by one of the most respected and longest established (175 years) quality trainers in the world, with 107 centres nationwide. We succeed because clients are treated as individuals who have commitments that need to be worked around. Clients’ past experiences are valued and taken into account when deciding on the best courses for them.

Pitman Training doesn’t just sell courses and then forget it - we go the extra mile for our clients because their success ensures that we retain our excellent, local reputation.

Since opening there have been numerous success stories: Career changers that went from being a Nanny and childminder to an office administrator, Medical receptionists who have up-skilled to become Medical Secretaries, people who needed the confidence and skills to manage their own businesses have successfully started new enterprises and took control of their own destiny………….

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Web: www.pitman-training.com Visit: 1st Floor, Richardson House, 21 - 24 New Street, Worcester WR1 2DP Get the Pitman Advantage™

Pitman Training Diploma Courses Essential Bookkeeping Award Foundation in Finance Introduction to Office Skills Diploma Fast Track Microsoft Skills Diploma Secretarial Diploma Accounting Technician Diploma Business IT Diploma with options: Marketing, PR, Web Design and HR Medical Secretarial Diploma Executive PA Diploma Management Professional Level 5

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Duration 2 Weeks 3 Weeks 2 Weeks 3 Weeks 5 Weeks 5 Weeks 5 Weeks 6 Weeks 7 Weeks Flexible

Duration tbc

20 hrs each 22 hrs 15 hrs 22 hrs 12 hrs 40 hrs 60 hrs

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Local Astronomy January is a great time to view the heavens, so we’ve enlisted the help of a local expert for advice and inspiration about what we should be looking for.

Dr Chris Baddiley appreciates living in Mathon. It’s not just the village social life, or the countryside, but it is above all else about the darkness. ‘Although I spent many happy years in Malvern, I became increasingly frustrated with light pollution and losing sight of the starry skies’ he says. Since astronomy is one of Chris’ great passions, Mathon has no street lights anywhere near, with the hills helping to block out light pollution from the larger settlements of the Severn Valley.

Walking through Chris’ house, I come across an impressive framed photograph of the Space Shuttle blasting off into space. Its signed ‘With sincere thanks’ by a member of the shuttle’s crew. It’s not just astronauts who appreciate Chris; his work to try and improve our view of the night skies is appreciated by astronomers, both amateur and professional, worldwide.

Chris became interested in astronomy as a child. He grew up in an academic environment, his father was a professor, specialising in organic chemistry at Cambridge. In the 1970s infrared astronomy was taking off, and Chris completed a doctorate at Imperial College in London, before moving into other astronomical research projects in Edinburgh and Manchester.

Corona Mare Copernicus andTycho

His specialised knowledge brought him to work at R.S.R.E. in Malvern in 1979 and he’s lived in the area ever since. Like many astronomers, the glow from street lamps made looking at the stars something of a challenge. In a way that only a scientist can, Chris began thinking about the problem, eventually coming up with a mathematical program to help lighting designers better understand how to reduce light pollution.

His ‘Skyglow’ model conclusions have since been taken up by sections of the lighting industry and has won him the prestigious Galileo Award two years ago.

Chris has the most amazing collection of night sky photographs that he’s taken over many years. As we pore over the many images of comets, gaseous nebulae, globular star clusters, galaxies and planets, he tells me it is challenging but possible with practice, thought, and with the camera fixed to a good tracking mount. ‘All of these images have been taken with standard cameras’ he says, ‘although the lens quality does need to be very good’. ‘It is quite possible to see all kinds of things in the night sky on a clear night, even with the naked eye. A pair of binoculars, with a magnification of 10x50mm is perfectly adequate to reveal thousands of stars, galaxies and nebulae’.

Eclipse Corona

Hale Bopp 1997

Dr Chris Baddiley

Comet McNaught

CHRIS’ WINTER NIGHT SKY Winter is a good time for star gazing because of the longer nights and so especially good for young people who can’t stay up late. In general the winter constellations are easily accessible and clearly discernible with many interesting things to view.

Orion is ideally suited between December and February; the great Orion nebula, below Orion’s belt, is a glory to behold through binoculars. You’ll see a huge nebulous patch although not in colour because our eyes are not sensitive enough to see this at low light levels.

There are many globular clusters and open clusters visible throughout the winter season. In addition there are galaxies like the Andromeda Galaxy M31 which is particularly spectacular, even through binoculars, compared with others further away.

Winter is a good time to observe different planets, lower on the horizon.

Hale Bopp Because both we and they revolve around the sun, the positions of the 1997 planets vary from year to year and season to season. Over the Summer and still now, Jupiter has been visible as a bright evening planet, with dim Uranus nearby; and presently Venus is visible as a bright morning planet.

In September I imaged horizon to horizon shots of the spectacular Perseid meteor shower, seen by many who looked. This last mid December we had the Geminid meteor shower, best seen after the moon had set, in dark skies.

Then a Lunar eclipse as it set in the morning of Dec 21st.

Early January promises the Quadrantid meteor shower on the 3rd and 4th, the opportunity to see Jupiter, Uranus and Saturn, and even a partial solar eclipse at dawn on January 4th, (although you must not attempt to view this directly unless you know how to observe it safely otherwise you could be blinded).

If you want to learn more I suggest contacting a local astronomical society which holds regular talks and can give help and advice with observing and suitable binoculars.

Worcester Astronomical Society http://www.worcesteras.freeserve.co.uk/ Herefordshire Astronomical Society http://sites.google.com/site/hsastro/home

Lunar Eclipse

Joanna Cocking McTimony

Year New You New t a

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Osteopathy

at Colwall Surgery

Edwin Helder B.Sc.(Ost.) registered osteopath

The Surgery Stone Drive Appointments 01684 540 323

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New Year, New You “May Your New Year be a Healthy One”

By Allison Maxwell from Colwall Exercise

“All Health Clubs see a huge spike in numbers attending the gym in the New Year. These numbers soon drop off at the end of March. This might be because of unrealistic or unachievable targets, boredom, aches and pains and even injury”, explains Mike Bourne, manager at MSJ Sports & Fitness Centre in Malvern.

The trouble is we all want a quick fix and the body of our dreams in just a few months! It’s no wonder the majority of exercisers are doomed for failure.

Goals are the key to success, but your goals should be short, medium and long term. You should reassess these regularly as your journey may occasionally need changing. You should feel good about what you have achieved at the end of the week and not guilty about missing the gym or having a treat. Most importantly you shouldn’t feel disappointed that you are still 2 stone away from your ideal weight!

New Year Resolution

Every year your car goes for its MOT and it makes sense to carry out the equivalent maintenance for your body. As well as eating sensibly, the health benefits of physical activity are well documented.

Take a look at your current diet and how physically active you are. If you are less able bodied there are even ways of improving fitness while sitting in a chair.

Win a ‘Health MOT’ All About Magazines in collaboration with Allison Maxwell and MSJ Sports & Fitness Centre are offering one lucky reader a ‘Health MOT’.

This MOT will include a nutritional consultation and fitness assessment. Six weeks after intervention the reader will be featured in All About Magazines.

Have you got a nagging health, diet or selfimage problem? Please write to us by the 31st January 2011 and let us know how you think a health MOT would help you. One lucky reader will be selected to have a full tune-up from health and fitness experts to get them right on track. Send your entrance to: competition@allabout-local.com or post to All About Magazines Competition, 10 The Crescent, Colwall, Malvern WR13 6QN Please note: The winner must be prepared to to write a short piece on their experience from the 6 weeks, to be published in the magazines.

Ask yourself these questions: ★ How does your weight compare to a year ago? ★ Do you feel healthy and have lots of energy or are you tired all the time? ★ Do you eat at home most of the time? If so, what types of foods?

Whole fresh food or boxed, processed food? ★ How physically active are you? Do you exercise regularly? ★ Do you eat healthy size portions or stuff yourself with every meal? ★ Do you smoke? ★ How much alcohol do you drink each week?

It is important to be honest and look at your health and dietary habits in order to set goals for 2011.

Allison Maxwell has an MSc in Public Health Nutrition, a BSc in Nutrition & Food Science and 20 years experience in the field of food and nutrition. If you need advice ring 07771694490 for Private Nutritional Consultations.

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Outside Catering business • lunches • buffets weddings • dinner parties

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A NEW NURSERY FOR MALVERN Brighter Futures Nursery will open at Sunshine Children’s Centre, Bluebell Close on Thursday 6th January 2011 Bookings being taken now...

Contact Nicola Turrell tel: 07919 357 895 Brighter Futures Nursery Bluebell Close, Poolbrook Malvern, WR14 3SW

High quality affordable care for children 0 to 5 Babies up to 2 yrs - £4:20 per hour Children 2 to 5 yrs - £3:00 per hour Flexible options term time only or all year round Experienced, qualified, friendly staff

www.mybrighterfuture.com

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Bosbury Nr Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 1PX

January 2011 at 01531 640285 www.thebellatbosbury.co.uk Thu 13 Jan Wed 26 Jan

Quiz Nights

Teams of 4, £1 each Quizmaster: Suzanne Davies 7.30pm start New Year 31 December

Wednesdays

Regular weekly meetings of Bosbury Church Choir and Bosbury Bellringers

Fridays

Saturday 22 January

Live Music Night

The Loxley Trio

& Free Hot Nibbles in the Bar from 8.30pm - 9.00pm on Fridays

Regular meetings of The Malvern & District Crib League and Pax Singers

Regular meetings of Leadon Valley Crib League and Bosbury Players

8pm - 1pm Bow ties and ball gowns, please!

Hot & cold buffet and Golden Valley Disco £15

5pm Opening

Mondays

Thursdays

The Ball at the Bell

TGIF

The Bell Inn

Progressive Folk in Harmony

Yummy Mummies Ladies Lunch 1-3pm. Get together with other mums over a light lunch from £5.95 incl a FREE 125ml glass of wine, tea or coffee. Pre-school tots welcome

Friday 7 January

Come a Wassailing!

Gather at the Church 6.30pm

Friday 21 January

Flicks in the Sticks at the Parish Hall, followed by a Light Supper at around 9.30pm at The Bell Inn. £5.95 including FREE 125ml glass of wine

Saturday 22 January

Farmers Market Full Takeaway Menu Monday to Saturday at the Parish Hall followed by Free Pool plus Pizza Night on Tuesdays Market Lunch at The Bell Inn Senior Citizen Lunch every Wed, from £5.95 inc. wine from £5.95 incl. FREE tea or coffee Business Brunch every Thursday Our Own from £5.95 inc. wine To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com 15 Regular Offers Sunday Roast from £8.85

Come along!

Energy efficiency

Everyone’s talking about it.

Energy costs are set to rise again and reducing our carbon footprint is something we all need to think about.

It’s important to get the most out of your windows and choose double glazing that will really save you energy and money – long into the future.

‘‘

Clover is a local, family-run home improvement business and can help with many of your home improvement projects including supplying and installing a new wood-burning stove or conservatory, converting a loft or garage and of course energy efficient windows and doors which take advantage of the newest technologies.

Did you know …

When any new external windows or doors are installed, they need to be registered with the local authority.

Getting the most out of your windows FENSA registered companies Window technology has not only provide peace of Energy Saving Fact changed dramatically over mind for their quality of work the years and certainly for Super Spacer® Energy Saving and compliance to legislation, the better. From October windows can save your thereby ensuring good 2010, all new double glazed household around three quarters working practice, but they will windows must achieve either of a tonne of CO2 a year – about also register your installation an A, B or C energy efficiency the same as not driving your car for you. Clover’s FENSA rating and Clover’s range for three months! registration number is 29546. of energy efficient windows deliver every time. Insulating Clover are also members of glass, low-e coating, argon gas filling and warm edge the Consumer Protection Association; they provide a spacer systems – Clover use the Super Spacer® 10-year guarantee on their window and door installations system - all contribute to the overall efficiency of the (extended to 20 years on sealed units with the Super window unit.

Spacer®) and an independent warranty insurance to give full peace of mind.

So what is a Warm Edge Spacer System and what makes the Super Spacer® so super?

To find out more, or to discuss a project, call Well, warm edge technology refers to the type of spacer Clover on 01531 631965 or email material used to separate the panes of glass within the info@cloverconservatories.co.uk window unit. Standard windows use a metal spacer bar which can suck heat from the inside to the outside.

Super Spacer® is a non-metal, high performance warm edge spacer system which actively blocks heat in to IN IN significantly improve the efficiency of the window. It allows for expansion and contraction reducing the major Building pr cause of fractures in a conventional sealed unit. design insp ojects and

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And they are so good they come with a 20-year guarantee!! Which applies whether the glass units are installed into new or existing windows, so if you already have double-glazed windows and you don’t really want to change them, but you do want to take advantage of the latest advances and save money on ever-increasing energy bills, perhaps consider just changing the glass!

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Clover publishes ‘inCLOVER’, a home improvement magazine full of tips and information.

In the latest issue: • Funky stoves for modern homes • Getting more from your loft or garage • Interior design tips • Preparing your house for winter Please call for your free copy

For more information please visit www.superspacer.co.uk

View a range of products at our offices: Pichells Place,

16 Please mention All About Magazines when to adverts www.cloverconservatories.co.uk Wall Hills Farm, Herefordresponding Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2PR

Save energy and money,

We are committed to keeping your homes energy efficient and now offer windows fitted with the Super Spacer速 bar - helping you save over 20% off heating bills AND reducing your carbon footprint.

Long term Did you know that from October 2010 all new double-glazed windows must be A, B or C efficiency-rated?

If you are looking to upgrade older double glazing, we offer a cost-effective method.

We can leave your existing frames intact and simply replace the sealed glass units with modern, highly energy efficient models.

PLUS: Choose our windows with the new Super Spacer速 bar and receive an extended guarantee of 20 years on the sealed glass units.

Want to know more?

Please call Simon on 01531 631965 or email info@cloverconservatories.co.uk to discuss your project and book an appointment.

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

View a range of products at our offices: Pichells Place, To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com www.cloverconservatories.co.uk Wall Hills Farm, Hereford Road, Ledbury, Herefordshire, 17 HR8 2PR

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18

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Advertising Feature

Magic Moments Day Nursery and After School Club Following the success of an “OUTSTANDING” Ofsted inspection at their Kempsey Nursery, and to ease the waiting list, Magic Moments have opened their second nursery in Leigh Sinton. Centrally situated, children come from Leigh Sinton itself, the many local villages as well as Malvern, Ledbury and Worcester. under-2s, with a sleeping area and milk kitchen – “For a long time we have been searching for the opportunity to expand – and Leigh Sinton seemed to and lots of space to play. A cosy corner gives a quiet space for story-time, and there is a role be the perfect location” Sharron explained. play and messy play area.

“The building has been used as a Nursery for over 10 years, but we wanted to add “Also upstairs is a Sensory Room with some “Magic Moments” to the inside, lights and sounds, a bubble machine and have completely transformed it since and projectors. All the children enjoy this opening!” environment, but it is especially useful for children with additional needs,” Sharron “Children are settled and content Sharron continued. at this homely setting because Chapman staff are dedicated to ensuring “The nursery is very welcoming all children make good progress and promotes a child-centred approach within the Early Years Foundation Stage” which enables children to be self-assured, Ofsted Inspection – Oct 2010 independent and secure... and children are motivated and interested in the Owners Sharron & Rob Chapman, together with broad range of activities provided” Manager Victoria and the team, are delighted to offer their experience and a warm, friendly Ofsted Inspection – Oct 2010 environment at their new nursery setting. In this Parents are provided with a feedback sheet at the happy atmosphere, parents find their children enjoy end of each session detailing sleep times and what learning through play. “We follow the Early Years activities have been enjoyed. Healthy morning and Foundation Curriculum,” Sharron explains as she afternoon snacks are provided, with a home-cooked describes the different areas in the large, open plan lunch and dessert. pre-school room. “We have a cosy book corner, The Nursery is open 8am to 6pm fifty weeks of the home corner, a role play area that changes with our year, and is conveniently located just off the A4103 theme, maths, science, IT and mark making areas Worcester to Hereford road, offering an easy “droptogether with a wet and messy play area. The off” for working parents in the local area, as well as children also enjoy organised activities such as further afield. baking, music and movement, and art and crafts.

The older children benefit from letters and sounds, If you would like to book a place in this home-fromjolly phonics and number activities, early writing home, family owned Nursery, and you mention this opportunities and circle time.” advert, you will receive a 10% discount on fees for your first two months!

The nursery has a separate upstairs room for

Special Offer:

10% discount on fees for two months at Magic Moments Leigh Sinton Leigh Sinton Nursery - Manager Victoria Portman Tel: 01886 833323 The Old Somers Arms, Hereford Road, Leigh Sinton, Worcestershire WR13 5DS

New branch opens in the heart of Malvern Smith Weale Associates are proud to announce the opening of their new branch in the heart of Great Malvern. Founded in 2002, with offices in North Worcestershire, it has been the long term goal of Colwall resident Rob Weale to establish a local office to offer the very best service to the community, bringing traditional business values and cutting edge technology coupled with a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Rob Weale pictured above, and left, Jeremy Smith

Smith Weale Associates is the brainchild of Jeremy Smith and Rob Weale, who between them have over 40 years experience in the financial services industry both having held high profile roles for some of the world’s largest financial institutions.

INdepeNdeNt AdvICe For those of you who are not familiar with Smith Weale Associates, they are an Independent Financial Advisory practice (IFA),offering financial planning solutions across the spectrum, indeed they would class themselves as general practitioners, that is to say that they advise on all aspects of financial planning from basic life assurance through to investment portfolio design and management, however there are also specialist areas which they cater for, for example Pre and Post Retirement Solutions, Equity Release and Long Term Care Funding to name a few.

Of upmost importance is their ‘Independent’ status, meaning that they represent their clients when seeking the very best solution for them, rather than representing a company and their own products and services. Jeremy points out that ‘many people often make the mistake of thinking all financial advisers are the same, however this is not the case, many advisers represent a single company or organisation, a good example might be a high Street bank or a large multi tied firm such as St James’s Place, who in essence cannot source the right product from the whole of the market, only from their own limited product selection’.

Smith Weale Associates also conduct regular reviews with all of their clients, tailored to suit their requirements, this may be quarterly, half yearly or annually, thus ensuring the continued suitability of any recommendation or product.

the pARtNeRS Rob Weale is West Malvern born and bred and now resides with his family in Colwall having moved back to the area in 2007 after a successful career

spent in Birmingham. Before setting up Smith Weale Associates his final role was as an Investment broker for the Zurich group, Rob says ‘having spent an entire career in financial services, and particularly in the final few years before setting up Smith Weale Associates, I was able to see the whole gamut of IFA practices, which really helped Jeremy and I design our own model which is why the business and the brand has gone from strength to strength over the last 8 years and continues to evolve’ Jeremy Smith is Birmingham born and bred and whilst still resident there with his family sees a real opportunity to offer sound financial planning solutions to the people of the area, Jeremy comments ‘I am very excited to be opening an office in such a picturesque location, and very much looking forward to establishing my business in the fabric of the community and affording the residents the very best bespoke service’

the SeRvICe At Smith Weale Associates we offer a comprehensive menu of services, and any initial meeting is free and without obligation, Rob points out ‘sometimes we are approached to just give some free helpful impartial advice and nothing more, which we are happy to do, in fact we welcome the enquiry. We feel it is important to help educate and assist members of the public wherever possible, after all, the more financially astute we all are, the greater the benefit to the wider community. It is our intention to write an editorial at least once a quarter on a topical subject, for example Long Term Care, Inheritance Tax planning or even a budget summary which readers will see in this magazine’.

Both Jeremy and Rob are keen to demonstrate their services and welcome you to contact them.

Independent advice designed for you Smith Weale Associates are a leading Independent Financial Advisory Practice based in the heart of Great Malvern

We offer independent advice and guidance on all aspects of financial planning.

Particular areas of speciality are INveStMeNt plANNING

opeN MARKet optIoNS

poRtFolIo CoNStRuCtIoN ANd MANAGeMeNt

loNG teRM CARe FuNdING

BuSINeSS pRoteCtIoN

– INCludING ShARe pRoteCtIoN ANd Key MAN ASSuRANCe

tRuSt ANd eStAte plANNING

MoRtGAGeS pRe ANd poSt RetIReMeNt plANNING peRSoNAl pRoteCtIoN

INheRItANCe tAx plANNING peNSIoN dRAWdoWN hIStoRIC polICy INveStIGAtIoN equIty ReleASe ReMoRtGAGeS

We offer free no obligation initial meetings telephone: 01562 770116 and we look forward to welcoming you to our 67-69 Church Street new offices in order to demonstrate the breadth By appointment only of our knowledge and expertise. www.smithweale.co.uk Paying for Our Services – there are a range of payment options to suit each and every client. We can work on a fee basis, a commission basis or a combination of the two.

We will not charge you anything until you have agreed how we are to be paid.

Partners:

Jeremy A Smith Cert pFS Robert e J Weale Cert pFS, CeMAp, CeltM, CeReR, 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 Services Authority

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

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

The Financial Services Authority does not regulate taxation and trust advice and some form of mortgages.

All About... ...the Electric Bike Loan Scheme The Electric Bike Loan scheme in Colwall “Test before you Invest” takes the effort out of cycling our steep hills, and offers a useful alternative for travelling short journeys. Robin Coates from Colwall Greener explains more.

How does the scheme work?

A local resident contacts us and books an Electric Bike for a 2 week slot, it is free as we have an initial grant from the Malvern Hills AONB. A handover and briefing takes place and then off you go!

The bikes come with a lock, lights, rack and panniers so they are great for shopping.

You can top up the bike’s battery at home using a charger that plugs into a normal household 3 pin socket.

You get to your destination without being sweaty and tired.

Is it hard to get used to?

The first bikes we tried only had one fixed level of power and some people found they accelerated too fast.

We have now bought more sophisticated bikes with 3 levels of assistance, this is more controllable. All the bikes have gears. There are a few simple things to learn like the charging system but it is not complicated.

what sort of people are using it?

Following the trial most residents have been really enthusiastic and some have then asked for advice on purchasing a bike but often the high cost has put people off. So now we are setting up the Colwall Electric Bike Club run on the same lines as our existing car club. With the Club members pay by the time the bike is used, this offers the possibility of regularly using one without the high cost.

A wide range, so far it tends to be people in their late thirties or older (one rider in the village is in his 80’s), they often see the bikes as a good alternative to a second car and a good way of getting some enjoyable exercise. Generally its used for journeys within the village or further afield as far as Worcester. One person took a bike on the train to Cheltenham and then rode to her meeting.

to a conventional bicycle?

outside of Colwall?

what are the benefits compared what can you do for people The electric motor assists you when you pedal. This is particularly helpful locally, as the steep hills put a lot of people off cycling. The additional power also helps against a head wind and when you want to accelerate away quickly (crossing a busy road or moving away from the lights). Another benefit is being able to cycle while carrying lots of heavy shopping.

22

For people living within the AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) we can offer a loan bike and we are always willing to give advice to other people about electric bikes.

They are such an important part of future carbon-free alternative transport. We can also point people towards further information and local retailers.

If you’d like to find out more, you can contact Robin Coates on 01684Please 540284 or email robin@robincoates.com mention All About Magazines when responding to adverts

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Central Heating installations Solar Panels supplied & installed

Fiona Hopes Professional Gardener Qualified, experienced and reliable gardener Sustainable, low-maintenance approach Advice on layout, planting and garden upkeep Expert pruning of trees and shrubs

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Landlord Certs & Gas Safety Checks

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26

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D R LLOYD General Building

For all your electrical requirements Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Periodic inspection reports Wiring, Re-wiring Showers, Cookers New builds and extensions Fuse board upgrades Fault finding and repairs

Free quotations For a fast and friendly service call Mark Humphreys mark@aelelectrics.co.uk

07774 773951 (Cradley)

FREE, no obligation quotations 01684 569115 07971 866505 dafydd.lloyd1@btinternet.com

general building property maintenance decorating tiling plastering

A local family run business

01684 560877 |07789 591172 domestic electrics, bathroom refits, plastering, plumbing, tiling, painting, general property maintenance

No call out fee Free quotes

www.johnparishlimited.co.uk NO VAT ON LABOUR

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.com

Greg Davies Wood Design Bespoke Furniture Internal Joinery External Joinery 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

To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

27

Notice Board January Deadline: Monday 17 January Cradley Sports Club are looking for Players!

They are on the look out for more players to further strengthen their under 9’s football squad in time for the next season. All play on Saturday mornings in the Mercian Friendly League.

They are looking for players who will be under 10 by 1 September 2011

Contact Rich on 07776 335359 for more details

Come and help restore wildlife rich coppice in Park Wood, West Malvern!

Volunteers are meeting at 10am on: 5th January 9th February / 2nd and 27th March Please contact Dave or Kelda on 01684 575516 or see www.wildwoodcrafts.com www.malvernhillscoppicenetwork.org.uk

MARVIN GOODGER CARPENTRY Bedroom Designing and Fitting Kitchen Fitting Bespoke Furniture General Property Maintenance Free No-obligation Quote No Job too Small Friendly Reliable Service Advanced City & Guilds Qualified

01684 560917

07968 968371

www.goodcarpentry.co.uk

28

Ledbury Country Market Hamper Winner Mrs. J. Matthews of West Malvern Congratulations!

Ledbury Country Market is closed during the first weeks of January and opens again on Friday 21 January

In cafe Bonne Bouche in Colwall, an artist from The Netherlands is displaying her beautiful and inspired art; mosaic & circles & mandalas.

The unique pen drawings can also be seen on her website: http:// suusinmokum.exto.nl

Small Message?

It’s Free!

Email sascha@allabout-local.com 07906 573352

window cleaning services 01886 880741 Robert Lambert 07527 300158 Pure water fed pole system A prompt, reliable and friendly service Environmentally friendly

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• PAINTED FURNITURE • PAINTS • FABRICS • HABERDASHERY • WORKSHOPS

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Chapel Cottage Cattery Mathon

01684 540833

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www.whitehousevets.com 01684 560940

To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

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What’s on In January

Friday 7 January Monday 17 January

Small Business Breakfast 7.30am, Blue Ginger Gallery, Cradley.

New members welcome. £3 which includes a very tasty breakfast.

Illustrated Talk on Colwall Church by the Colwall Village Society The next public meeting of the Colwall Village Society will be on Monday 17th January 2011 in the Village Hall at 7.30 p.m. It will be an illustrated talk on Colwall Church by Tim Bridges.

Tim will take a journey through the ages looking at the history and architecture of the Church. This will start with the Anglo Saxon origins of the church, will look at how changes to the building reflect history, at the Norman doorway, the tile in the North aisle, the monuments in and around the church and the Victorian restoration. Tim will also compare the development of the church with that occurring in other locations.

All are welcome. Non-members entrance fee £2.00. Tea and Coffee will be served after the meeting.

Every Sunday

West Malvern Acoustic Music Session 9.30 - midnight, West Malvern Social Club (by the village hall clock on West Malvern Road at the junction with Ebrington Road). Acoustic music session, all styles and abilities welcome.

More information: www.westmalvernsession.org.uk

THE LYTTELTON WELL

LTD

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FUNCTION ROOMS

Hold your party here Exhibit your art Available for exercise sessions & meetings with kitchen use

• Three large bedrooms • Use of garden • To let as a unit or shared • Convenient for primary school

COFFEE HOUSE

New Tasty Specials Loyalty Cards Colouring for the kids

BOOKSHOP

January Sale CD’s & Books Special Promotions

www.lytteltonwell.co.uk 30

Flat to Let in Bosbury Village

Contact: skyline10@btinternet.com 07800 752232

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What’s on Wassailing

Saturday 15 January 6pm for 6.30 start We will meet at 6pm for a 6.30pm set off from Colwall Green. We will be walking in a torch lit procession to Cummins Orchard, so bring torches or lanterns across the fields. This is a family friendly event and any children capable of the walk are very welcome.

Please wear stout footwear and warm clothes. It is also traditional to dress up with decorated hats, usually adorned with winter foliage such as holly and ivy although these days anything goes!

Traditional festivities will take place in the orchard, welcoming in the new year.

Wassail means “good health” in Anglo Saxon and it was the Olde English festival to wake up the trees and ensure a good harvest the following autumn. A young boy, called the Tom Tit, is placed in the biggest tree in the

orchard and the trees are given toast and cider.

Then everyone makes as much noise as possible to wake up the trees and scare away any unfriendly spirits. It is all good fun and a great way to banish the post-Christmas blues.

Then we head for a cosy barn for warming drinks, a bit of singing, lead by various members of local choirs and singing groups who supply music and words to those of us who usually only manage a carol or two at this time of year.

Everyone is back at the village by around 8pm.

yoga in cradley MONDAY 7.45 - 9.15

Nurturing, energising class + relaxation Private Lessons Jo Harper 01684 560926 joyoga22@hotmail.com

WE BUY GOLD FOR CASH We also buy: Silver Platinum White Gold

Belle Vue Jewellery & Cards 4 Belle Vue Terrace (next to Ask) Mon - Fri 9.30am - 1pm

To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

31

Barnt Green - Bromsgrove - Droitwich - Kidderminster - Pershore - Redditch Stourport - Worcester - Mayfair - London

32

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Harcourt Design Associates Ltd Architecture and Surveying

Listed Building and barn conversion specialists New-build, replacement dwellings and extensions Laser surveying, 3D modelling, project management and co-ordination Providing traditional style and quality with the speed and precision of modern technology

www.harcourtdesignassoc.co.uk

info@harcourtdesignassoc.co.uk

The Old Bell , Harcourt Road, Mathon, WR13 5PG Contact Tim or Simon on 01684 568929

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tel: 01684

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To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

33

Green Fingers Winter can be a challenging time for gardeners, but at Caves Folly Nurseries Bridget has been keeping herself busy with a little research.

As I am writing this the weather is still very cold and we have warnings of snow again. Winter is a very difficult time for growers and people who work outside, this last year has been exceptionally demanding. But what do growers and landscapers do in places like Canada in the winter ? I tapped the question into the internet and as you would expect, an amazing amount of fascinating information was revealed.

As far as I can see most Canadian farmers grow winter wheat which withstands temperatures as low as minus 40 celsius. Can you imagine how cold that is! Livestock farms are intensive and all inside, some of them have controlled heating systems. It was interesting to read surveys about the garden landscaping industry. 43% of landscapers found cash flow a problem in winter. There are a number of landscapers who take on ice and snow control jobs to keep the money coming in.

Anyway, back to Colwall. January is a month of new

cradley Stoves Installation & maintenance of woodburning and multifuel stoves

beginings. If we stick to our new year resolutions then we are all going to be slimmer and fitter and stop drinking too much cider!

But in a few weeks time Spring will be here. Don’t be caught out, try getting those construction jobs done sooner rather than later. Finish cutting back dead perennials and dig over any weedy borders.

Get the seed catalogues out and be inspired by exotic vegetables and drifts of colourful flowers.

Clean the greenhouse out and stack up any reusable seed trays and pots. Don’t forget to feed the birds this month as they are probably running out of wild food after such an early start to Winter. Last of all, keep those eyes peeled and watch out for that first special sighting of snowdrops and Winter Aconites.

Happy New Year to you all.

Bridget

Seasoned, Hardwood, Barn Stored

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Bulk Builder’s Bag of Split Logs only £65

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34

01531 641999/07802 819131

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Get your car repaired at a local garage you can trust with an excellent reputation • Accident repairs

Start to finish service

• Air-con services

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ll Motor Services a w l o C Citroën & Peugeot Servicing & Repairs New & Used Car Sales 09-59 CITROEN C2 1.4 HDi VTR, Sport Red.A/D.C/D. 60+mpg. 11k........£8,495 07-57 CITROEN C3 1.4 HDi COOL, Grey. 21K..........................................£5,995 09-09 CITROEN C1 1.0i VT, 3dr. Red. 6k...................................................£5,495 07-07 CITROEN C2 1.1i, Airplay+ Silver. A/C. C/D. 8k..............................£4,995 03-53 CITROEN C3 Convertible 1.4i, C/D. Green. 50k.............................£3,495 04-53 CITROEN C2 1.1i SX, A/C. Silver. 48k.............................................£2,795 02-02 CITROEN XSARA 1.4i LX, 5dr. Silver. A/C. 86k..............................£1,795 00-x PEUGEOT 206 1.4i LX, 5dr. A/C. Red. 35k......................................£1,795 Unit 7, Station Yard Industrial Estate, Colwall, Malvern, WR13 6RN 8.30- 5.30 Monday to Friday - 01684 540066 anytime To advertise call Tina 07952 591031 or sales@allabout-local.com

35

Community Pages

Clubs, Societies, Groups, Classes Colwall Bright Sparks Colwall Pre-School Colwall Village Hall, Mill Lane. Monday to Friday 9.30am 12pm/lunch - 1pm, during term time. For children of 2yrs and 6 months to school age. Jean 01684 540061 or Sue 01684 575548.

Colwall Cricket Club With 4 Saturday League teams, a Ladies team and juniors they are blessed with a great number of volunteers, but always need more. Visit http://colwall.play-cricket.com Colwall Greener A group of Colwall residents committed to helping Colwall prepare and adapt to the demands of Global Warming and Peak Oil. Open to all. Robin 01684 540 284 or visit www. greener.colwall.info Colwall Orchard Group New volunteers are always welcome, we have lots of different things we still want to do. www.colwallvillagegarden.org or contact Helen Stace on 01684 540569 Colwall Rotary Club Meets on Thursdays at 8.00pm at Malvern Hills Hotel. If you are interested in coming along and finding out more about Rotary and our charitable work, please contact Alan Torbet on 01684 899227 or www.colwallrotary.org.uk Malvern Gym Club An informal clamber club which meets 10-11am every Wednesday during term-times at the new gym, the Downs Malvern College Prep School, Brockhill Rd, Colwall. Run by local mums, only £5 per term, per family. Great fun for active toddlers - good range of equipement and loads of space.

Call Alison 01684 567777 Colwall Probus Club Founded in 1984 to be a meeting point for retired professional and business men, resident in the Parish of Colwall. Meetings twice monthly on a Monday morning at Colwall Park Hotel.

Newcomers welcome. Contact Guy Houghton 01684 540158 for membership rules and information. Colwallprobus@msn.com Colwall Singers is a ladies choir meeting in Colwall Village Hall on Tuesday evenings at 7.45 during term time. We give concerts in aid of various charities. Newcomers very welcome, especially second soprano or alto! Liz 01684 561278.

Colwall Playgroup At Colwall Village Hall, Mill Lane. Monday 1.45 - 3.15, £1.50/ family. A range of toys and activities for children to do from babies to pre-school. Contact Louise 01684 541495.

Colwall Wildlife Group Organises three indoor meetings a year between late autumn and early spring, one all day wetland visit by coach. Some record birds visiting their garden. Contact Derek Turner 540318 Colwall Golfers - Date for diary Forward notice: next year’s spring meeting will be held at Upper Sapey Golf Club on Friday 29 April 2011, starting 9.30am, concluding with ‘all day breakfast’ at lunchtime!

Contact person: Derek Turner (540318) Colwall Ladies Club Members meet on the second Thursday in the month at the

Colwall Village Hall. Coffee at 10am is followed by a talk or demonstration. New members welcome. Contact Liz Daniel 01684 540904 for more details Colwall Village Society a group of local people (over 200) with an interest in the wellbeing and history of Colwall. 3/4 public meetings per year, on subjects of local interest. Membership £5 py Come and join us. Membership Secretary Margaret Matthews, PO Box 64, Malvern, WR14 4WE The Chasers International Men of Stell Cricket Team A friendly and social pub cricket team, based at The Chase in Upper Colwall. Cricket fixtures and various events. All abilities welcome. Jamie 01684 541022 or 07977 115478 Wyche and Colwall Horticultural Society For anybody with an interest in gardening. Meets on the first Monday of every month at Colwall Village Hall. Free coffee and biscuits from 7pm. Talks and demonstrations from 7.30pm.

Membership £10 per year, or come as a visitor £3.50 a meeting. Further details Margaret White 01684 540931 Colwall WI We meet on the 2nd Monday of the month at the Colwall Village Hall at 7.00pm. Following a short business and information session and refreshments, we enjoy a varied programme of talks and demonstrations. Visitors and new members welcome. Cath Blackwell 01684 540020 Colwall Players Colwall Players is a local group of performers that has been bringing live entertainment for over twenty years. Apart from coming to presentations you could be part of one. For more info visit www.colwallplayers.org Colwall Mothers’ Union MU has 4 million members in 70 countries. It promotes marriage and family life. In Colwall we normally meet with a speaker on the 1st Thursday of the month at 2.15 in the Ale House by St James’ Church. Visitors welcome.

Contact Jill Wittington 540590

Cradley

New!

Cradley Sports Club Cradley Sports Club currently provides sporting opportunities for young people within a ten mile radius of Cradley. This includes football and cricket (in season) See www.cradleysportsclub.co.uk or 01886 880081.

Cradley, Storridge & Mathon Royal British Legion Supports ex service personnel. This Legion Club is a lively place, with two full sized snooker tables, a pool table, a skittle ally and regular entertainment.

Small Business Breakfast, Cradley Is a friendly informal group of small business owners who meet on the first Friday of every month from 7.30 am in the Blue Ginger Gallery, Cradley. A £3 continental breakfast is available Newcomers welcome. Contact Miles Meager 01886 880964 or milesmeager@mi-frame.co.uk Cradley, Mathon & Storridge Art Group Meet every 2nd and 4rd Wednesday of the month at Storridge Village Hall at 2pm. We are a friendly informal bunch of all levels of ability. Newcomers will be most welcome.

Mathon Mathon, Cradley and Storridge Tennis Club Situated between Colwall and Mathon, welcomes new

members for friendly social or competitive tennis. Play all year round on three all-weather courts. For information Mrs Pat Pugh on 01531 640682 or Bob Hamilton on 01684 540836.

Mathon Parish Church Holds weekly services: 1st Sunday - Parish Communion at 9.30 am, 2nd Sunday - Mattins at 9.30am, 3rd Sunday Lay-led Mattins at 9.30am, 4th Sunday - Holy Communion at 8.30am, 5th Sunday (when relevant) - In one of the three Parish churches (Cradley, Mathon or Storridge) at various times.

West Malvern

West Malvern Irish Dancers Classes with the award winning Sean Eireann McMahon Academy of Irish Dancing, during school term time: Fridays 4.30 - 6.30pm, at Malvern Village Hall. For boys and girls all ages. Beginners welcome. Ruth (parent) 01684 568613 or Rose (tutor) on 07976 6914686

West Malvern Royal British Legion Club Skittle Alley, Darts Crib, Live entertainment. Sunday night Honey Bingo. All welcome, always looking for new members.

Tel 07985 133691 for more details. Lower Road, West Malvern.

West Malvern Baby & Toddler Group Meets 10-12 every Friday, during term-time at West Malvern Village Hall. Friendly group, lots of toys and activities. £1.50 per family per session. Contact Alison 01684 567777 Meditation in West Malvern Small friendly group meeting weekly for one hour in early evening and monthly on Sunday. Format is silent mediation as in Zen (sitting then walking) Anyone with compatible practice is welcome. Email malvernmeditation@talktalk.net or call 07816578815

Herefordshire helpline.

FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO VOLUNTEER Community Voluntary Action Ledbury 01531 635339 Malvern Community Action 01684 892381 Malvern Hills Volunteering 01684 862151 Or visit www.do-it.org.uk to search for volunteering near where you live.

Malvern Small Business Forum Provides a meeting place for small businesses - including established business, those who have just started and those considering starting up. Monthly meetings. For more information 01684 862151 (Simon Smith or Joel Killer) or www.malvernhills.gov.uk/business The Hills Bridge Club A duplicate bridge club for improvers. Meet at Mathon Village Hall, Thursdays 7 for 7.15pmContact 01684 541227 www.bridgewebs.com/hills Malvern Hills Lions Club we meet on 2nd and 4th Monday each month at the Great Malvern Hotel, Malvern, 8pm. If you are interested or want to know more about us and helping out at Charity Events - all welcome. Geoff Lewis, freephone 0845 8337439 www.malvernlions.org.uk

A big thank you!

West Malvern Social Club Music Session every Sunday 9pm (folk, country, jazz, roots).

Fortnightly Bingo. Licensed bar with stage available for hire for parties and events. 145 West Malvern Rd, WR14 4AY 01684 576732

Malvern Hills & Ledbury Malvern Hills Freecycle A Free Recycling Resource. To find out more you can find a link to Malvern Hills Freecycle group at www.freecycle.org Plastic Bags – No Thanks! Is a local project led by local people to reduce the use and irresponsible disposal of plastic carrier bags. www.plasticbagsnothanks.org Ledbury Children’s Centre Provides activities and services for U5’s and their families in Ledbury and surrounding areas. For more details please contact 01432 383840

New!

Malvern Social Group Monthly social evenings and a varied programme of activities organised by members. This is a non-profit group run by volunteers and is not a dating club. New members welcome.

Further info on 08450 957984 or info@malvernsocial.org.uk Transport Ring & Ride Based in Ledbury urgently need volunteer drivers from the Colwall - Cradley area to support people in these communities with transport. Please ring 01531 636333 Citizens Advice Bureau @ Malvern or Ledbury For advice that makes a difference - it’s free and confidential and can cover money matters, employment problems, housing, consumer rights, personal problems, taxes, land...

Ring 01684 563611 for Malvern or 01432 377599 for the

Happy New Year to all our customers and readers All About Magazines Thank you for your continued support!

Index Business Regents Th. College BP Cars AutoTech 29 Colwall Motor Services 35 Forward Motors 35 Cattery 29 Children/Families Brighter Futures 14 Magic Moments 19 Classes & Training Painting & Drawing 31 Pitman Training 6 Yoga 31 Dentist Chris Bocking 13 Design Architectural Consultant 6 Hanley Interiors 2 Harcourt Design 33 Reeves Design 6 Electrician 27 Estate Agent 32 Financial Advice 20 Flat to Let 30 Flowers 14 Food & Drink Outside Catering 13 The Bran Tub 13

Funerals 11 Garden Branchworks 23 Fiona Hopes 23 Health & Fitness Absolute Fitness 11 Belle Beauty 10 Chiropractor 10 Feng Sui 13 Hayley Flower 13 Osteopath 11 Valerie Farmer 13 Home Improvements Classic Interiors 33 Clover 16 Cradley Stoves 34 DR Lloyd 27 Fusion Property Services 39 Greg Davies 27 GWB Chimneys 23 Hanley Interiors 2 Hunaban Heating 23 John Parish 27 Kendeen Plastics 5 Ledbury Carpets 3 Lee Hankins 27 M Goodger Carpentry 28 MH Furniture 24 RD Plumbing & Heating 39

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