All About Worcester East & Villages April/May 2017

April/May 2017 Issue 36

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Contents

welcome

April/May 2017

28

8

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

Worcester offers all kinds of things to enjoy at this time of year. From the comedy and music of The Fistful of Spookies to the Early Music Festival (both on Page 6), the city offers a wealth of entertainment in April and May. In our local parks there is music and events while the Repair Café continues its work every month on Stanley Road (see Page 8).

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Enjoy this lovely time of the year and Happy Easter!

Enjoy Local

6

Community News

8

Business News

10 & 11

Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust

13

Listening Books

14

Roots Recipe: Meg's Carrot Cake 16 Bark in the Park

18

Worcester Male Voice Choir

20

Well Being: Sleep

22

Local Talent

24

Notice Board

26

What’s On

28 & 29

Classes & Courses

30

Theatre News

30

Competition Theatre Tickets

30

All About Malvern Hills & Worcester Area @allaboutmalvern www.allaboutworcester.com

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Sascha McDonald - The Editor

Cover Photo Friar Street, Worcester, photographed by All About Magazines.

DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Sascha McDonald (owner & publisher) Colwall, Malvern WR13 6QN sascha@allabout-local.com 01684 252242 | 07906 573352 ADVERTISING Teresa Rooney - 07722 226712 teresa@allabout-local.com EDITORIAL & DISTRIBUTION: James McDonald - 01684 252242 james@allabout-local.com All About Worcester East & Villages is distributed to 10,500 homes & businesses over 2 months CONTRIBUTORS Tracy Reck, Roots, Dave NEXT BOOKING/COPY DEADLINE Monday 8 May for the June/July edition

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Enjoy Local 1. WODS 125th anniversary show WODS, the Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society, is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with a performance of HMS Pinafore And Other Infernal Nonsense! HMS Pinafore was the society’s very first performance in May 1892 and for the 125th anniversary, the performance will be expanded to showcase WODS strengths in the 21st century. The production takes place at The Swan Theatre between Tuesday 25th and Saturday 29th April.

Further information and tickets are available from www.worcesterlive.co.uk or by calling (01905) 611427.

2. easter events If you live in Fernhill Heath, there are several Easter events taking place at the Baptist Church.

There’s a coffee morning on Saturday 8th April between 10.30am and 12.30pm with stalls and refreshments. On Good Friday (14th April) the church holds a Reflections at the Cross service at 7pm, while on Easter Sunday (16th April) there are services at sunrise, 11am and 6.30pm.

For further details visit www.fernhillheathbaptist.org.uk

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things to enjoy local During April & May

3. angelic healing share Healing Touch on Bath Road is holding an Angelic Healing Share this May. It’s a chance to follow a peaceful meditation and meet like-minded people, with donations from the morning going to the 3 Counties Holistic Healthcare charity. The event takes place between 11am and 12.30pm on Thursday 25th May, to book a place contact Rita Davies on 07579 002557. www.3chh.org.uk

4. A fistful of spookies A Capella group A Fistful of Spookies will be visiting Worcester in April, with their own unique blend of music and humour which has wooed, charmed, cheered and delighted audiences across the country. Described by Mike Harding as ‘One of the funniest bands ever’, they’re appearing at St Swithun’s Institute on Friday 28th April at 8pm. Tickets cost £12.50 and are available from www.wegottickets.com or by calling (01684) 540366

5. worcester early music festival The Worcester Early Music Festival brings music to the city over eight days in May. With visits from several high profile early music ensembles, the festival is a celebration of music from composers including Monteverdi and Telemann. Concerts take place at Old St Martin’s Church in the Cornmarket while on Saturday 13th May there’s the Pride and Prejudice Ball at the Guildhall, a costumed evening of music and social dancing. The festival includes a tour of the library at Worcester cathedral, which includes the Worcester Antophoner, a 13th century manuscript of sacred music, which was the only book of its kind to survive the Reformation.

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

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

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All About discount Quote Ref: AAWV3 To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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News

community NEWS

CRAFT FAIRS A series of craft fairs raising money for Guide Dogs are planned for this Spring. Taking place at the visitor centre at Worcester Woods Country Park, there will be produce and items from local crafters including handmade crafts, Jams, Jewellery, Woodcrafts, Needlework and soft toys. It’s also a chance to hear more about the work of Guide Dogs and a dog should be in attendance.

The next fairs take place on 2nd April, 7th May and 11th June from 10am until 4pm.

LEUKAEMIA CARE

RESTORATION WORK Work is underway to restore the exterior of a medieval building with a connection to Queen Elizabeth the First.

The black and white building on the corner of The Trinity and Trinity Street was moved around 30 feet in the 1890s, when its future was threatened by a road widening scheme.

Queen Elizabeth I used the building’s balcony to watch a pageant and address city folk during a royal visit to Worcester in 1575. The work includes replacing loose rendering and repairing the timber frame before re-painting in the original tudor style.

RECONNECTIONS SERVICE Reconnections is a new service for Worcestershire that aims to reduce loneliness and isolation. Aimed at people over 50, there’s activities from befriending to bowling, walking and days out. Activities are chosen at group meetings that take place once a fortnight. You’re welcome to come along, you can refer someone to the service or you can volunteer to help.

Reconnections is run by Age UK together with several partners.

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

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Leukaemia CARE is a national charity based in Worcester, which carries out lots of fundraising activities locally. The charity always welcomes local volunteers to help with different events including supermarket collections, a Dog Jog and the Mudnificent Seven! The next local supermarket collection is at Tesco in Warndon on 1st April. If you’d like to find out more about volunteering, you can email sara. johnson@leukaemiacare.org.uk or call (01905) 755977. www.leukaemiacare.org.uk

WORCESTER REPAIR CAFE The Worcester Repair Café is back this month and next. Expert volunteers are on hand to repair broken household items that would otherwise be thrown away.

Whatever needs fixing, bring it along to the sessions at the STARS Adult Day Care Centre on Stanley Road between 11am and 2pm on either Saturday 8 April and 13 May. You can read more about the project at www.transitionworcester.org.uk

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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Business News KIDZ & KITZ A new School Uniform Shop in Malvern A large and spacious shopping area greets all customers looking for a quick, simple and relaxing shopping experience when purchasing school uniform for their children. With ample free parking available and just a short walk from the Malvern Link train station, you cannot fail to be impressed with the simplicity KIDZ & KITZ have created when shopping for your children’s school uniform.

There is also an online shop with a number of different delivery options available as well as a click and collect option.

Since setting up in Malvern, KIDZ AND KITZ has quickly gained a great reputation for customer friendliness and willingness to go that extra mile.

With their sister company KITZ UK and Beacon Sports just next door, where all the print and embroidery is completed in house, the future looks really bright for the organisation. The fact that personalisation is readily available on site

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means they have managed to bring a personal touch to many garments which is appreciated by parents.

‘When I first moved to the Malvern area in 2010 I was a little surprised at the lack of choice and options available when buying school uniform’ says Lee Smith, one of the founding partners of the business. ‘We have made it our mission to try and give all parents that little bit of extra choice when having to purchase for their children. We sell all the major schoolwear brands such as TRUTEX, BLUE MAX BANNER, and DAVID LUKE to name but a few.’

Lee adds that schools are told by the Department for Education to allow parents to use and purchase from two or three different shops when buying school uniform, which has really helped the business to gain momentum. So much so, the company now supplies a number of schools from as far afield as Scotland right down to the southern coast of England on a regular basis.

For more information, call (01684) 892439 or visit kidz-and-kitz.deco-apparel.com

Business News IMPETUS BUSINESS LOANS Would you like to turn your business dream into a reality? Local help is available!

Impetus is your local business finance provider.

We’re based in Pershore in Worcestershire and we help by providing start up loans and business development loans. As a social enterprise owned by a charity we receive Government money to enable us to do what we do. We lend around £2m each year.

Do you have a great business start-up idea?

If you have a great business idea and you’re looking for a start up loan, we can help. From £500 to £25k is available and recent start up loan recipients have included a wedding shop, a coffee shop, a skatepark and a fitness training business. We can therefore support pretty much any kind of organisation. We can even help if you have a poor credit rating or the high street lenders have said no, or if you have an existing business under two years old. Supportive business finance mentoring is included.

Do you have an existing business you’re keen to grow?

If you’d like to take your existing West Midlands business to the next level (or perhaps set up something alongside your existing business), we can also help with this. Up to £150k is available and recent growth loan recipients have included a bespoke furniture maker, a manufacturer of robotic systems, a gastro pub and a marketing agency. Helpful business finance mentoring is included here too.

Find out more today If you’d like to have an informal chat to find out more or if you’d like to apply for a loan, please call our friendly team on 01386 556000.

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Call 07722 226712 for details To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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What’s on in Worcester?

Shop Local, Eat Local, Spend Local, Enjoy Local CHILDHOOD CANCER : THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS Loss of weight, sickness or nausea

Swelling or a lump that is persistent

Appearance: your child looks pale

or has a swollen tummy

Disturbances in vision, a new squint,

Discomfort: pain (anywhere)

that is persistent, or a new limp

You are concerned (Very important)

Bleeding, excess bruising, or blood in the urine

Think: L

headaches or an unusual white appearance of pupils (eyes) in photos

Recurrent high temperatures or night sweats

Irritability or constant exhaustion ADYBIRDS

If your child has any of these symptoms or YOU ARE WORRIED, please get them reviewed by the GP. Most of the time, the cause of these symptoms will not be cancer.

If it is cancer however, early diagnosis can save lives.

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Event

grace kelly ladybird trust Being a parent is a joyful experience but sadly it can also be a painful one.

Grace Kelly from Crowle was four and had just started school when her parents unexpectedly lost her to a rare form of cancer. Their experience prompted them to start a charity to raise awareness of childhood cancer and to fund research.

Here, Grace’s mum Jennifer tells us about The Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust. race was born in July 2010 and grew up a happy, healthy little girl. In September 2014 she started school and just a few weeks into the new term she woke up one morning with stomach pain. We took her to hospital and we lost her just under three weeks later.

g

It was devastating for our family. Her case was unusual, the symptoms only appeared very late, but usually in cases of childhood cancer, the symptoms appear much sooner but aren’t picked up.

Because of this, we wanted to do something that would help more children to receive an earlier diagnosis. Of course some parents just don’t want to think about it, but I truly believe we have to overcome that barrier, which might just save a life.

We began fundraising and thanks to huge support from both friends and complete strangers we have raised around £120,000 so far. We’ve held lots of events. Last year the TV presenter Katy Ashworth came along to our Ladybird Garden Party in Spetchley Park Gardens. Many people have taken on personal challenges whether that’s parachuting from an aeroplane or running 30 miles.

We’ve recently published details of a research grant totalling £50,000 and we’re inviting applications from researchers into childhood

cancers. Overall, far more money goes into the study of adult cancers and we want to try and rebalance that as far as we can.

To date we have distributed 40,000 awareness cards, giving basic details of ways to spot possible symptoms. These are being distributed by the Health Visiting Service to new parents in Worcestershire and they are also going to schools and GP practices. If we can attract funding we would eventually like the cards to be distributed nationally.

Most of us don’t realise that after accidents, cancer is the biggest killer of young people. One in every 500 children under 14 are diagnosed with cancer. Our main aim is to make sure the family of children can spot the early signs if they are affected - simple knowledge is all it takes to save lives.

next fundraising event Our next big fundraising event is on Saturday 20th May when we’re organising a fun afternoon at Bishop Perowne School. We’re always looking for people to volunteer to help with events, or with fundraising.

You can read more on our website, www.gracekellyladybird.co.uk or email us, contact@gracekellyladybird.co.uk

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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Local News

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

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

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

Using the Listening Books service is straightforward.

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

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

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

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

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Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy

of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple.

If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee.

But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service Worcester East & surrounding Villages and

manager Paul Papandreou agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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Recipe

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

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

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

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

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

Place the cake in the centre of the oven to bake

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

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

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

Bransford Road, Rushwick, Worcester WR2 5TD

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

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

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If you are elderly or infirm let me cook for you!

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To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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Theatre

bark in the park returns to Gheluvelt Park this May. After the success of last year’s show, this celebration of the local canine community takes place on Sunday 21st May from 11am until 3pm.

At the heart of the day are the dog show classes, which range from Golden Oldie (over 9 years old), to Cutest Puppy and Waggiest Tail! There’s also a competition for the Best Child Dog Handler (under 12 years old), the Scruffiest Mutt and the Best Trick.

The ever popular digital Pawtrait booth side show will be available to have a digital portrait taken of your canine companion which will be shared online to celebrate the local canine community.

There will be other stalls to browse, refreshments and activities for all the family. This free community event is outside the Pump House Environment Centre in Gheluvelt Park, just off cycle path 46 with free parking opposite the Pump House in the Pitchcroft car park.

If you are competing in one of the fun dog show classes, there is no need to register, just turn up half an hour before your chosen class and wait for your call into the ring. You’ll find full details of timings at www.allaboutworcester.com If you are interested in booking a free stall at Bark in the Park, please contact teampoowatch@gmail.com

POOWATCH Word on PooWatch is spreading! The new app makes it easy to report dog mess on local pavements and parks.

To date users have made over 6,000 reports and identified 34 different hot spot areas within the city limits, all of which helps control the problem.

Community groups have loaned and installed temporary poo bag dispensers at hot spots, keeping them topped up with bags supplied free by PooWatch.

www.localhireservices.co.uk 18

If you are a community group or know of a local hotspot that would benefit from campaigning tools please contact the team by email teampoowatch@gmail.com or via the web app www.poowatch.co.uk

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To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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Feature

All About...

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

How did the WMV Choir originally form?

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

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

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

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

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

What will the next 30 years bring for the choir?

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

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

How is the Choir marking its 30th Anniversary?

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

The Choir will then go on a four day visit to Devon. The highlights will be singing in Exeter Cathedral and then with Budleigh Salterton MVC. After that concert the tradition is to have an

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In 2018 our MD Nicolas Wright stands down.

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

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

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

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

Ever thought about singing?

Whatever your ability, our choir will help...

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

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

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

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Worcester Male Voice Choir For further information contact Terry Dillingham

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Hinges, handles, locks and security.

Key cutting

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

01684 567070 24 Hour LocKsmitH 07767 883639

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

21

Well Being

sleep Even Superheroes Need This.

An Often Overlooked Keystone Health Habit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can read more from her at

www.beautyspotmalvern.com Tel: 07513 240110

Picture Framing 2nd Anniversary Spring Special: 15% off Framing Prices Sat 1st - Sat 8th April Pictures, prints and needleworks, Medals, shirts - you name it.

Don’t leave it hidden out of sight...

Bring it to us - we’ll frame it!

Worcester Bosch Accredited

89A Newtown Rd, Link Top, WR14 1PD Mon - Sat: 10 - 5 | Thu: 10 - 4 01684 574921 lytteltonframing@gmail.com www.lytteltonframing.com Easy Parking

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

23

Music Feature

Local Talent:

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

By Dave Webber

i

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peter Prosser’s TREES ‘R’ US

Gates & Railings

by Phil

TREE SURGERY

Tree Surgery Hedge Cutting Garden Maintenance Garden Clearance Established 20 years Free quotations

Low cost fitting service Working in the local area for 25 yrs

We make gates, railings, handrails, bridges and anything else you might need.

Please call me on 07747 032583 or email gatesbyphil@gmail.com to discuss your requirements.

Contact us on 01905 453076 | 07718 449628 1 The Hop Kilns, Broughton Hackett, Worcester WR7 4BB

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 info@ready-rent.co.uk UNIT 10, CLIFTON CENTRE SPRING LANE SOUTH MALVERN WR14 1BJ

WWW.READY-RENT.CO.UK

For further ideas visit

www.gatesbyphil.co.uk

Worcester Worcester Shed Shed & Fencing & Fencing Ltd Ltd

Heavy Duty Heavy Tongue Duty Tongue & Groove&Sheds Groove Sheds Summer Houses, SummerWorkshops Houses, Workshops Playhouses Playhouses and Animal andHousing Animal Housin

Special Offer: 5% discount Quote ‘All About’

For further information For further information contact contact Unit 11, Three UnitSprings 11, Three Trading Springs Estate Trading Estat Vincent Rd,Vincent Worcester, Rd, WR5 Worcester, 1BW WR5 1BW

01905 358750 01905 358750

www.sheds-direct.net www.sheds-direct.net

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

25

Notice Board MEDICAL MUSEUM EVENTS

WORCESTER MOTOR FESTIVAL

The Infirmary and George Marshall Medical Museum Events 11th May – Medical Book Group at the Infirmary: Next, Michael Crichton 18th May - Museum of Lies for Museums at Night - Take the tour, spot the fiction from fact and add your own!

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

Now in its 11th year

www.medicalmuseum.org.uk or call (01905) 542373

AUTHOR'S SPOTLIGHT

specialist plant fair Sunday 23 April At Spetchley Park Gardens, 11am to 5pm More than 35 stall holders offering plants the include rare and new varieties Admission includes entry to the gardens spetchleygardens.co.uk

at the Hive David Savill – How Personal Stories Become Political Saturday 29th April, 6pm

www.thehiveworcester.org

BANDS IN THE PARK

Enjoy an afternoon of live music 2 - 4pm on Sundays

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

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

Gheluvelt Park: Sunday May 28 in the bandstand

On Friday 5th and Saturday 6th May

Fort Royal Park: Sunday 18th June Bike, hike and kayak, pitting with refreshments provided by yourself against the spectacular Friends of Fort Royal and landscape of Snowdonia.

Commandery Gardens

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

sightconcern.co.uk/blindfoldmile

Small Message? !

It’s free for groups

www.strichards.org.uk

RYA PUSH THE BOAT OUT

al.com james@allabout-loc A chance to get afloat and try sailing 01684 252 242 at local clubs in Worcestershire 13-21st May

For details www.rya.org.uk

Splendid Cinema

hardy plant society

Mixing World Cinema with Cult Classics at Worcester Arts Workshop

Saturday 8 April - ‘Herbidacious’, Kim Hurst Saturday 13 May - ‘The Wonderful World of Perennial Violas’, Jack Willgoss Both events 2pm at Crowle Parish Hall, WR7 4AZ. Plant sales table, raffle and refreshments available.

27th April – Under the Shadow (Cert. 15) 11th May – The Greasy Strangler (Cert. 18) 25th May – Paterson (Cert. 15)

www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk

Visitors welcome at £3 www.worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk

June/July deadline: Tuesday 9 May

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Would you like more local customers for your business in 2017?

You really should be featured in our trusted magazines!

Four areas to choose from:

• Worcester East & Villages From £44 per edition

Great Value for money!

From £70 per edition

From £124 per edition

From £220 per edition

Full page

• West of the Hills

Quarter page

• St John’s & Villages (Worcester)

Eighth page

• Malvern

Half page

There are four editions of All About Magazines, giving you the option to target one specific area, or advertise in more than one area, reaching up to 42,000 homes. For detailed information on our distribution area please visit www.allaboutworcester.com

Prices shown are excluding VAT & based on a 12 month booking in one magazine in Worcester, covering 10,500 homes over a two month period. Various prices available for 2,4,6 or 12 month bookings and a choice of four magazines. Just contact us for details.

why should you advertise with us?

• Reach local people who do not necessarily go online or use social media to look for a local service • An easy and affordable route to market reaching up to 42,000 homes • You get free advert design and help with your message • We take care of everything; you book, we design, print & deliver your message every two months • Your advert appears in a trusted publication that people read and keep for future reference • Your advert is in the hands of an experienced, award winning team who put you in touch with local people

For more information call our friendly and helpful team on 07722 226712 or 01684 252242, send an email to teresa@allabout-local.com or visit www.allaboutworcester.com

free

Advert De sign with all bookings “Advertising in All About Magazines has certainly worked for my business!”

Nathan Burlton, Mac Interactive “Thank you and your team for excellent service and I look forward to resuming our business advertising in Spring again.”

Paul Rivers, Decorator

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

27

What’s On

april Wednesday 5 April A Theory of Everything for the NHS Professor David Seedhouse looks at a single, huge oversight in the NHS constitution and offers a powerful solution, in a free event at The Hive at 6pm Book online www.thehiveworcester.org

may Wednesday 3 May Looking for People in the Archives Learn how to use indexes and catalogues online and at the Hive to search effectively. 2-4pm, tickets 6pm book via www.thehiveworcester.org

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

Sunday 7 May The Crowle 10k and Fun Run a fun and friendly event, raising money for the Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust See www.crowle-online.co.uk/Crowle-10k

Friday 7 April Jesus My Boy a humorous, moving one man play by Worcester Repertory Theatre at Worcester Cathedral. The story of Jesus seen through the eyes of Joseph. www.worcestercathedral.co.uk

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

Sunday 23 April The Scenic Six Run A six mile route taking in the beautiful scenery around the village of Peopleton. Raising money for St Richard’s Hospice, starts 11am For details visit www.strichards.org.uk Sunday 23 April Worcester Male Voice Choir presents a St George’s Day Concert 3pm at St Martin’s Church, London Road.

For details see www.worcestermalevoicechoir.org.uk Tuesday 25 April until Saturday 29 April HMS Pinafore … and other Infernal Nonsense!

Celebrating 125 years of the Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society, at the Swan Theatre www.wods.co.uk Saturday 29 April Amadou Diage & Group Yaker (Shindig) bringing together the traditional and new, Western and West African music from a charismatic Senegalese singer-guitarist and some of the UK’s top world-musicians, 8pm at Worcester Arts Workshop (01905) 25053

Saturday 13 May The Pride and Prejudice Ball at Worcester Guildhall, social dancing and music, one of the highlights of this year’s Worcestershire Early Music Festival www.earlymusicworcs.org

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Thursday 18 May Scallywags Comedy Night at Worcester Arts Workshop featuring Nick Page, 7.30pm worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk

May

Saturday 20 May The Malvern Hills Walk - Now in its 33rd year raising money for St Richard’s Hospice, with 2, 5 & 11 mile routes For info call (01905) 763963 or www.strichards.org.uk

Sunday 21 May The Worcester Full and half-Marathon starting at Sixways stadium before heading through countryside to the east of the city. Raising money for St Richards Hospice and other charities, start time 9.30am See www.tempoevents.co.uk

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

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FREE

for groups

Light Lunches Afternoon Teas

Afternoon Teas Plant Sales

What’s On

Plant Sales

Open@ Hanley Gardens Swan

Residential Support Workers

Plant Sales

Plant Sales

Days – £14,536.43 - £17,745.00 Nights – £14,742.00 - £18,032.74 (Salary dependent on experience and location)

17 Great Gardens - ‘Go Potty’

May Bank Holiday Weekend

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

Light Lunches Afternoon Teas

17 Great Gardens - ‘Go Potty’ 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches

2017

Proceeds in aid of Hanley Churches

Garden Waste Collection Service 17 Great Gardens - ‘Go Potty’

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

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

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

£48.00

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

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

P & D Green Waste Ltd

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

www.panddgreenwaste.wordpress.com

The West Midlands Learning Campus (Rowden House School and Winslow Court) is a residential setting for children and May adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and challenging behaviours.

2017 We offer exceptional training with good internal progression

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

Other benefits include: Good Pension Scheme, Childcare Voucher Scheme, fully funded Diploma Level 3 in Health and Social Care or Residential Childcare and Travel Allowance.

You can visit www.senadgroup.com for further information about the Group and to apply online.

West Midlands Learning Campus, Rowden, Bromyard, Herefordshire, HR7 4LS.

Specialist education and care.

The SENAD Group is dedicated to equality of opportunity in all areas of work, education and care. We are committed to safeguarding those in our care; all employees are required to obtain an Enhanced DBS Disclosure and follow safeguarding policy and practice.

Follow us on:

facebook

Twitter

To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

29

Theatre News

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

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

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

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

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

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

pilates classes for the 50 plus Pilates is gentle yet effective exercise to help anyone with health issues/injuries. It will strengthen core muscles, improve posture and helps with back problems.

Tue eve 7pm to 8pm St. Peters community hall, St .Peters Drive, Worcester Thurs eve 7pm to 8pm Fort Royal School, Wylds Lane, Worcester Beginners class Thurs 2.30pm to 3.30pm, Number 8 Arts Centre Pershore Contact Rosemary on 01905 350642 E-mail: pilatesmovement@hotmail.co.uk

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Competition

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

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

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

by Monday 1st May 2017.

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

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

Classes & Courses

TAI CHI & QIGONG Improve your health & boost your energy Thursday evenings 7:30 - 9:00pm St Nicholas Church Barn, Worcester, WR4 0SL Contact Marc - 01905 811123 or marc@obelison.co.uk www.obelison.co.uk

If you run local classes or courses and would like your details printed here please contact Teresa on 07722 226712 or email teresa@allabout-local.com

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

TUESDAY 30th MAY - SATURDAY 3rd JUNE Box Office: 01684 892277 | malvern-theatres.co.uk To advertise please call: Tina on 07952 591031 or email tina@allabout-local.com

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

Before

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

It was money well spent.

Yours sincerely Mrs Wright”

01684 770086 • 07867 910377 32

After