The Bromsgrove Oracle January & February 2019

OVER 30,000 READERS EACH ISSUE

Jan / Feb 2019

IN THIS ISSUE: l l l l

New Local Business Directory – See Inside Win £50 in our “Find Wol” competition…

Meet the Members Night shoot out finds “Top Gun” Celebrate Burns Night & Valentines at The Potting Shed

2.

Welcome to the January & February edition of The Bromsgrove Oracle.

Happy New Year to all our readers, customers, contributors and all the good folk of Bromsgrove and the surrounding areas and to pinch the line from the song “let’s hope it’s a good one”. Although 2018 was a very good year, we are certainly looking forward to 2019 with much enthusiasm and indeed positivity and really hope some of the more negative aspects of last year can be left well behind us, as we start this New Year. We will of course continue to promote Bromsgrove business and our community and this edition features several New Year promotions from local businesses, health information, tips for your garden, upcoming local events, local news and much more, helping you keep in touch with all things Bromsgrove. Our magazine continues to enjoy a very positive feedback and is a fantastic place to promote and find out more about local businesses, news and information from your community (all linked to and promoted on our website and social media).

– Enter or “Find Wol” competition for your chance to win £50.00 - Simply find the hidden image of our friendly Owl “Wol” in our magazine, go to our website www. thebromsgroveoracle.co.uk and enter the competition for your chance to win, it’s very easy to enter and like the saying goes “you’ve got to be in it, to win it”……Good Luck “Find Wol” - Last Issue’s Lucky Winner was Caitlin Lippitt, well done Caitlin and we hope you enjoy your prize.

We really enjoy providing our magazine for you, your contributions and your feedback but please don’t hesitate to provide me with your suggestions for future editions.

Hope you enjoy this edition and don’t forget YOU can provide YOUR events, news and information too ?.

Until next time.

Lyndon.

A Selection of Local Stories and Information: This Month’s Recipe 6 Great Alne Park Assisted Living Apartments 8 Connecting Bromsgrove 10 Local Music News 14 Gardening Feature 16 What’s on at Hogarths Stone Manor 20 Bromsgrove Rock School 22 Meet the Member finds “Top Gun” 24 & 25 Bromsgrove Sporting FC 30 Save the Date – Local Events Guide 38 & 39 What’s on at Coughton Court 42 Local Business Directory 44 - 47

Zelkova String Quartet

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in printing of the advert. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate.

The Bromsgrove Oracle does not endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved.

No part of this publicaion may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the prior consent of the publisher.

3.

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Smaller orders receive calculated discount. Not valid for use with any other offer.

4.

LOOK GOOD AND FEEL GREAT WITH A NATURAL FRESHER AND YOUNGER LOOK

DR CAMILLA HILL MB ChB (BIRM) GMC

Dr Camilla Hill graduated from Birmingham Medical School in 1990 and was a full-!me GP and medical consultant for BUPA before qualifiying as a professional aesthe!c doctor in 2014. Her clinic, near Bromsgrove, offers all the latest in non surgical cosme!c treatments in a safe and sterile environment using the highest calibre products.

Whether you are young or old her treatments will be tailored to you and your budget. The outcome will always be natural and age appropriate.

An!wrinkle Treatments

£150 for one area £190 for 2 areas £220 for 3 areas

Dermal Fillers

Cheeks, jaw lines, chin and lips Prices from £300

Non Surgical Eye Bag removal and Tightening of eye lids Prices from £500

Non Surgical Face li" Prices from £300

Minor surgery

Prices from £150

For a FREE consulta!on call: 01527 280820 www.drcamillahill.co.uk

5 star rating

5.

CREATING A ROOM FOR ALL SEASONS THE PERFECT ROOFING SOLUTION FOR YOUR CONSERVATORY

Recognised within the industry for quality & reliability l

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Electrics & plastering undertaken

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Building regulations arranged

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Our own expertly trained fitters

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Unit 19, Walkers Road, Manor Side Industrial Estate, North Moons Moat, Redditch, B98 9HE

6.

Lemon Pot Puddings These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch.

Ready in: 40 minutes | Makes 6 IngredIents 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 175g golden caster sugar Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice) 4 medium eggs, separated 75g plain flour 130ml milk 2 tbsp flaked almonds

tIP

Icing sugar, for dusting

Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter.

Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in.

Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds.

Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top.

Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.

These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.

7.

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

For a beautiful new kitchen just change the doors Est. 1999

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• Installed by local skilled tradesman • Made to measure custom-built doors and units • UK’s leading kitchen facelift expert

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8.

I promised Dad he’d never go in to a care home!

Dad’s Assisted Living Apartment at Inspired Villages is a real alternative to a conventional care home.

He receives care, tailored to his needs, and most importantly, he’s retained his total independence.

Feel independent. Feel Inspired.

01789 449 156

info@GreatAlnePark.co.uk inspiredvillages.co.uk/assistedliving Villages located in Warwickshire, Exeter, Cheshire, Hampshire, West Sussex and coming soon in Kent.

F_IVG_0295 Great Alne Park - Bromsgrove Oracle - FP - Jan-Feb Issue.indd 1

13/12/2018 11:12

9.43.

F IR S T S E S S IO N FREE

A Magical Start to 2019 Musical Magic Saturday Ac!vi!es

BEACON CHURCH HALL, RUBERY

9.30AM - 10.30AM AGES 4 & 5 YEARS

Crea!ve play, singing & dancing • Introduces team work skills • Builds confidence • Develops imagina!on

GET ACTIVE, HAVE FUN, MAKE FRIENDS CONTACT ASHLEIGH LOWE: 07527 700625

theatricals@live.co.uk

@THEATRICALSclub

The Professional Local Tree Surgeon

Established Family Business All aspects of tree work undertaken Domestic and Commercial Fully insured and licenced NPTC Certified Logs and Woodchip for sale

FOR A FREE QUOTATION ASK FOR RHIAN BRAY

01527 892828 07970 263779

Email: braybros@yahoo.co.uk www.braybrostreesurgeons.co.uk

184 The Ridgeway, Astwood Bank, Redditch B96 6NP

MONTREAL PLASTERING Reliable Service No Job too small or large Free Quotations Friendly Advice

Call Dave on: 07464 181320 966275 07961

www.montrealplastering.co.uk

5 Mallow Drive, Bromsgrove. B61 0UP

Kip McGrath Bromsgrove Tel: 01527 757250 Mob: 07870 800699 bromsgrove@kip-mcgrath.com

Local News

10.

Connecting Bromsgrove

enis Norton, the owner of The Norton ollection useum, asks visitors to his ollection from where they have travelled. One of the visitors, who had come from oventry, commented how easy it was to get to Bromsgrove now with the introduction of the new rail services a train to Birmingham and then one of the fre uent trains to Bromsgrove.

The new services mean that there are now twenty two districts on the ross ity ine directly connected by rail from itch eld Trent alley, via Birmingham New treet, to Bromsgrove.

o, at the beginning of , why don t the istrict ouncil, the NWed , the retailers in the igh treet, the arket Traders and the newly appointed arket anager oin together and form a working party to promote to the people living in these twenty two districts and to all the passengers travelling on the trains on the ross ity ine all the activities the thrice weekly markets, the foodie events, the ourt eet

procession, the various events in anders ark, the switch on of the hristmas ights, the estival of ight et al which will take place in and around the igh treet during the year The improved rail connectivity is an opportunity to grow the economy of the area around the centre of Bromsgrove let s sei e it !!!.

11.

St Johns Nursing Home

St Peter’s Walk Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 8EU A nursing dementia home situated in the picturesque town of Droitwich Spa in north Worcestershire.

Just a short walk from the towns amenities and views over the river Salwarpe. The home is built around a huge glass atrium, bringing the Worcester sunshine into all areas.

Care and the individual are at the very heart of this service where our core values of wellness, happiness and kindness are embellished each day.

A caring staff group on hand at all times, residents are offered single en-suite rooms as standard. Beautiful secure mature gardens for residents and families to enjoy.

Nursing Dementia Care Please call Lorraine Mavengere the Home Manager to arrange a viewing on:

01905 794 506 or email: StJohns.Manager@shaw.co.uk

Follow us on @shawhealthcare

shawhealthcare

www.shaw.co.uk

Broad Street DIY Anniversary page:Jan Feb 2019

12.

12/12/18

19:19

Page 1

Retail News Keeping it Local for Four Decades

[L-R] Brian, Liam and Tim Warren, Lisa Childs, Paul, Hayley and Tony Warren

Broad Street DIY, in Bromsgrove, is proudly celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

Broad Street DIY was opened by Tony and Linda Warren on 8th January 1979.

Originally located on Broad Street, in Sidemoor, the business has grown from humble beginnings – when local deliveries were made

by Tony and his brother Tim, using a trailer hitched to an old Cortina car.

Today three generations of the Warren family work at Broad Street DIY. Whilst Tony remains the ʻBossʼ his son Paul was appointed managing director in 2002.

The business is also managed by Paulʼs brother Brian, Paulʼs wife Hayley and his sister Lisa. Paulʼs son Liam represents the third generation working for the family business.

The turning point for Broad Street DIY came in 2001 when the decision was made to move from Sidemoor to the shopʼs current Worcester Road location. Larger premises meant a much wider range of products could be stocked and an outside yard allowed for greater expansion into landscaping and building materials. A first-floor kitchen and bathroom showroom opened in 2009.

Local resident Carl Bancroft has been a customer since the original Broad Street DIY Sidemoor premises opened. He said: “When the Warrens took over in 1979 there was nowhere quite like it in the area at that time. They realised very quickly what their customers required and the key to their success has always been having the right products at the right price.”

He continued: “Itʼs been wonderful seeing Tonyʼs children, and their children join the business. They are a hard-working family deserving of their success and long may it continue.”

Oracle Jan Feb 2019:Broad Street DIY

13/12/18

12:07

Page 1

13.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR DIY JOBS AT HOME POP IN FOR FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

Whatever task you’re tackling in the home, we have all the DIY supplies you will need. Our range includes plumbing, timber, plastering products, tools, paint & decorating materials, electrical and door furniture.

01527

873555

Store Hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm | Saturday: 8am - 5pm | Sunday: 10am - 4pm 128 Worcester Road, Bromsgrove B61 7AG

www.broadstreetdiy.co.uk

MusicNews News Music

14.

UK’sBest BestMusical MusicalTalent TalentComes ComestotoBromsgrove Bromsgrove UK’s Bromsgrove Concerts are bringing the best of the UK’s musical talent to town in early 2019.

joining them to perform as Endymion on Friday 8th February.

Zelkova String Quartet

Zelkova String Quartet Praised for performing 'with a remarkable zeal and intensity', siblings Caroline, Ed and Jonathan Pether together with Alex Mitchell, will be performing as the Zelkova String Quartet on Friday 11th January.

They have chosen to perform works by Haydn, Bartok, Beethoven and Judith Weir; the current Master of The Queenʼs Music.

Endymion Familiar faces who are returning to Bromsgrove Concerts include Krysia Osostowicz (violin) and Stephen Stirling (horn), with pianist Michael Dussek

Krysia is well known as leader of the Dante Quartet and Stephen appeared previously in a memorable performance of Ligetiʼs Horn Trio. They will be playing Ligeti in their concert alongside Beethoven and Brahms.

Krysia Osostowicz

Stephen Stirling

The Lawson Piano Trio The Lawson Piano Trio has specialised in a wide range of standard and unusual repertoire, as demonstrated in their programme on Friday 22nd February.

Subtitled ʻMusic from the Near Eastʼ, they will be featuring works by Panufnik, Rachmaninov, Paul Juon, Shostakovich, and Dvorakʼs ʻDumkyʼ.

The Lawson Piano Trio

Michael Dussek

Concerts 8.00pm at Atrix Arts Centre.

Tickets on the door/online.

Tel: 01527 577 330 boxoffice@artrix.co.uk

www.bromsgrove-concerts.org.uk

15.

16.

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In summer it winter stem-colour produces sprays of plants. small purple Planted in a moist sunny spot, flowers. the crimson-red stems are Christmas Roses or hellebores, stunning during winter, plus including Helleborus in autumn you’ll get red and argutiflorus, have cup-shaped purple foliage. To keep these green flowers with prominent colourful stems coming, cut stamens, are tough and them back to ground level in perform well. The classic late spring every alternate year.

Christmas rose is whiteWinter classic good looks flowered developing a pinkcome from as hollies, either greentinge it ages), and looks leaved oragainst in variegated form, stunning the central such as Marginata’ cluster of‘Argentea golden-yellow with silvery leaf edges, ‘Golden stamens.

The variety ‘Potters Queen’ withflowers golden-yellow heel has up to leaf cm edges, or ‘Ferrox Argentea’ with in diameter. silver-edged leaves covered Snowdrops in single and with prickles! double forms look great planted Some can be on kept in driftswillows or naturalised a quite small, stunning grassy bank.and Buyhave ready-tocoloured winter stems. flower snowdrops in potsFor now, egg-yolk stems for plant themyellow out, and thengoplant Salix ‘in alba scarletthem the‘Vitellina’, green’ in for a month

by Pippa Greenwood or two’s time, when you can orange get the bulbs, complete with stems leaves, ready for planting there by is mail order.

‘Britzensis’, or Salix Winter aconites have bright acutifolia yellow, shiny petals and ‘Blue flowers like golden stars, and Streak’ produce a superb display when has purple planted close to and amongst stems with snowdrops. Plenty of moisture a silverywithout waterlogging is key. grey bloom inter flowering pansies and grey make a splash of colour inThese any buds. garden, with just about every stems also conceivable colour need to be cut backavailable. to ground Even by frost, the level when every struck two years. flowers soon perk up again.

The ghost bramble, Rubus Clematis cirrhosaa is a wintercockburnianus, relative of the flowering with to standard climber bramble, hasyellow arching white flowers and whitebell-shaped stems that look great in awinter delicate lemonyIn perfume. sunshine. summerThe it inner surface of the is produces sprays of petals small purple delicately flowers. freckled, with variety ‘Freckles’ having the best dark Christmas Roses or hellebores, spotting. he flowers last from including Helleborus early winter until the start of argutiflorus, have cup-shaped spring. green flowers with prominent inter-flowering asmine stamens, are tough and can be loosely trained perform well.

The against classic a wall for a great display Christmas rosewinter is whiteof bright yellow starry flowers, flowered developing a pink and will you that spring tinge asremind it ages), and looks isstunning coming!against the central cluster of golden-yellow At www.pippagreenwood. stamens.

The join variety ‘Potters com you can ‘Grow Your heel hasPippa flowers up to cm Own with Greenwood’ in diameter. for great vegetable plants and weekly in advice, Snowdrops single practical and and pretty plant double forms looksupports, great planted the fantastic SpeedHoe, in drifts or naturalised on a gardening tools, grassy bank.

Buy signed ready-tobooks more! Or whynow, not flower and snowdrops in pots book for and a talk at your plant Pippa them out, then plant gardening them ‘in theclub? green’ in a month

or two’s time, when you can get the bulbs, complete with leaves, ready for planting by mail order.

Winter aconites have bright yellow, shiny petals and flowers like golden stars, and produce a superb display when planted close to and amongst snowdrops. Plenty of moisture without waterlogging is key. inter flowering pansies make a splash of colour in any garden, with just about every conceivable colour available.

Even when struck by frost, the flowers soon perk up again.

Clematis cirrhosa is a winterflowering climber with yellow to white bell-shaped flowers and a delicate lemony perfume. The inner surface of the petals is delicately freckled, with variety ‘Freckles’ having the best dark spotting. he flowers last from early winter until the start of spring. inter-flowering asmine can be loosely trained against a wall for a great winter display of bright yellow starry flowers, and will remind you that spring is coming!

At www.pippagreenwood. com you can join ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ for great vegetable plants and weekly advice, practical and pretty plant supports, the fantastic SpeedHoe, gardening tools, signed books and more! Or why not book Pippa for a talk at your gardening club?

17.

PRICES FROM

£15

*

PER TREATMENT

Your first choice in lawn care 2018 was a difficult year for your garden. Extreme weather conditions resulted in lawns that didn’t look their best.

As we move towards the growing season, now is the time to start preparing your lawn to get the best out of it. Our seasonal treatments start from just £15*.

Due to high demand, and to avoid disappointment, we are advising that you book your treatments early.

If your lawn is beyond repair due to last years sweltering summer, ask us about our Lawn Makeover - the best way to get ‘the GreenThumb lawn.’

For your FREE lawn analysis & no-obligation quote, contact your local branch today.

Simply call 01905 840740 or email worcester@greenthumb.co.uk *Based on a lawn size up to 40m2

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13/12/2018 10:50

18.

big spla≈h communications ltd

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Fresh and exci!ng ideas to promote your business from a Chartered Marketer with over 30 years’ experience working for clients across all industry sectors.

07912 146449 sarah@bigsplashcommunica!ons.co.uk

Established in Bromsgrove July 2007

Design | Artwork | Logos & Branding | Print | PR Photography | Social Media | Websites... and much more!

www.bigsplashcommunications.co.uk

19.

20.

What’s on 2019

Motown

Friday 1st February 2019 £27.95per person

discover hogarths stone manor

Stone, nr Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 4PJ

01562Kidderminster, 777555 Email reception.stonemanor@hogarths.co.uk Stone,Tel: nr Worcs. DY10 4PJ www.hogarths.co.uk

Tel: 01562 777555

Email reception.stonemanor@hogarths.co.uk

www.hogarths.co.uk

Tickets include a seated 2 course meal, Live Show and dancing until midnight

RatMotown Pack Duo

Friday 2019 Friday1st 8thFebruary March 2019 £27.95per £32.95 per person person

Tickets include a seated 2 course meal, Tickets include Live Show and dancing midnight a seated 2 courseuntil meal, Live Show and dancing until midnight

Upcoming Wedding Fairs Wedding Showcase Sunday 13th January 2019 10am - 4pm

Wedding Fair Sunday 27th January 2019 12 - 3pm To make a reservation for any of our fabulous offers please call the events team on 01562 777555 or email reception.stonemanor@hogarths.co.uk

21.

Specialists in digital printing

S

1

Specialists in digital printing GRAPHIC DESIGN

PRINTING SERVICES

01527 873181

Speci di LARGE FORMAT PRINTS

BANNERS / ADVERTISING

bromsgroveprinting.co.uk

Music News

22.

A Rockin’ Good Gig by Young Musicians Dylan, Jack, Chris and Freya introduced a change in tone, opening with Natural (Imagine Dragons). Dylan and Freya then sang Hold Back The River (James Bay) with beautiful vocal harmonisation. Jack and Freya teamed up for Who Knew (Pink) and Freya belted out the lyrics while Jack played his heart out on guitar.

The talented young musicians with Brian Hoggard [front]

Thirteen young musicians from Bromsgrove Rock School performed their end of term gig at Stoke Prior Sports and Country Club on 8th December.

The junior band opened the show with Wild Thing (The Troggs). They quickly settled into their set showcasing an accomplished range of talent, confidently tackling Radioactive (Imagine Dragons), Boulevard of Broken Dreams (Green Day) and their comedy song ʻJeff the chicken' (to the tune of Snow Patrol's ʻChasing Carsʼ).

Sam, on drums was consistently awesome and provided a thumping pulse for their final number, Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes).

Phoebe

Drummer Sam

Phoebe then took to the stage with a composition blending Sleepwalking and Drown (Bring Me The Horizon). Her guitar playing talent was matched by her strong vocal ability, displaying a maturity well beyond her thirteen years.

Joined by Storm the duo superbly handled Nirvanaʼs tricky grunge rock classic Smells Like Teen Spirit.

The gig ended with a fun ensemble piece, A Little Respect (Erasure). As the lights went down it was apparent all the young musicians had earned a great deal of respect from the audience.

Bromsgrove Rock School, run by Brian Hoggard, welcomes young musicians and singers aged 8 to18.

For information about joining call 07720 211002. @BromsgroveRockSchool (facebook).

23.

FireplaceCity LARGE SHOWROOM OVER 100 FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES ON DISPLAY

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Fire Surrounds Fireplaces Electric Fires Gas Fires Stoves & Burners

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Open Monday - Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm Sunday 10.00am - 1.00pm

20 Summer Street, Smallwood, Redditch B98 7BD

Tel: 01527 456035 www.fireplacecity.co.uk

24.

Members Night Goes with a BANG! Around 35 local business representatives attended a hugely successful Bromsgrove Oracle ‘Meet The Members Night’ event at Hogarth’s Stone Manor, on 8th November last year.

Guests were able to network informally on arrival and browse a gift stall of jewellery, bags and accessories from Scallop & Bell, before a welcome address by The Bromsgrove Oracle owner, Lyndon Stokes.

Everyone then enjoyed a three course dinner with wine.

Paul Anderson & Andrea Wright

The menu selection starters included roasted plum tomato and basil soup with garlic croutons; and ham hock salad with pickled cucumber, cauliflower puree and ciabatta croute.

Emma Rowe, Marion Kenyon & Rebecca Critcher John Harper & Jodie Spears

The main course options included shin of beef with creamy tarragon mash, braised leeks, roasted cauliflower and fine beans with red wine gravy; and fillet of salmon with crushed potatoes cake, fine beans, charred courgette, braised fennel and pea veloute.

The delicious desserts included almond panna cotta with honeycomb and berries; and white chocolate and Baileys mousse with brown bread ice cream and expresso sauce.

Lyndon Stokes

25.

Among those businesses attending were Big Splash Communications, Broad Street DIY, Carpets Rugs and Runners, Chi Chi Gifts & Interiors, Clent Hills Vets, Just Wright Catering, Seamless Chauffeur, Singletonʼs Nurseries and The Wildmoor Oak.

Sarah Rees with Mark Treverton

The evening offered guests something different to the usual event format with what proved to be highly entertaining indoor shooting entertainment, provided by Mark and Tina Treverton, from Shooting 4 Fun. During the pre-dinner reception guests were able to try their hand at rifle shooting at the ʻLaser Shotʼ video projection gallery.

Following dinner, the highest scoring men and ladies were then invited to a final shoot out.

Darren Varney, from Carpets Rugs and Runners, narrowly beat Brian Warren from Broad Street DIY and Oliver Rees from Big Splash with a winning score of 400.

Brian Warren

Victorious! Darren Varney with Mark Treverton

Laura Underwood, from PA Mayday, was High Gun Lady of the night with 310 points.

She said: “It was a fantastic evening. The shooting experience was a real surprise and great fun. Even more surprising was my win!”

High Gun Lady Laura Underwood with Mark Treverton

Nick Taylor, from Bromsgrove Cricket Club, was the most challenged participant and picked up a bottle of Prosecco for his entertainment value!

The next Bromsgrove Oracle Members Night will be held at Grafton Manor on 24th January.

Interested in joining The Bromsgrove Oracle? Contact Lyndon Stokes: 07972 000843 info@thebromsgroveoracle.co.uk

Nick Taylor with Mark Treverton

Health News

26.

New Year, New You ... again!

Make small changes at home and work because that’s where you spend most of your time!

Think it, feel it …. remind yourself why you are doing it, imagine yourself slimmer, healthier, tter and stronger.

Move more … activity uses up calories so use the stairs instead of the lift, and get out of the chair and away from the T .

Make it fun … Hate running Try walking ate the gym Try small group training ou are much more likely to be consistent if you en oy what you are doing

Eat less calories … swap crisps to carrot sticks and use smaller plates to reduce your portions.

Find support … ask a friend or family member to walk with you, nd a gym buddy or a personal trainer to push you

For advice on weight loss and how to be healthier, fitter and stronger then contact us on 01527 877622 or info@ perpetualwellbeing.co.uk

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28.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

PRINTING SERVICE

01527 873181

GRAPHIC DESIGN

PRINTING SERVICES

01527 873181

29.

WINTER

SALE NOW ON! WG AI RL DL EO NW BC ERNOT OR KE

Stourbridge Road , Catshill, Bromsgrove B61 0BL www.willowbrookgc.co.uk Open 9.00-5.30 Monday-Saturday, 10-5 Sunday

Don’t forget to follow us now on for more great offers and gardening ideas

30.

Bromsgrove Sporting F.C.

Photo: David Besley

Our Season So Far ...

After gaining promotion last season, porting found themselves playing in the vostik eague outh ivision One entral mainly against teams in the outh ast idlands. After a few pre season friendlies the league business started for real with an away win against A unstable on August th followed by an emphatic home victory against idlington on the following Tuesday. uccess in cup competitions though was harder to come by though as porting lost away to near rivals Alvechurch in both the A up and outhern eague up.

Owing to promotion porting this year were made their debut in the A Trophy rather than playing in the A ase but went out to orby Town at the rst attempt with a home defeat.

There was a slip in league

form in mid October with heavy defeats away to Bedford Town and orby Town but home matches continue to go well and at the time of writing porting have a record with the latest a dramatic victory against league leaders eterborough ports when the winning goal came three minutes into added time.

At present Bromsgrove porting are third in the league and on course for a place in the play offs but a lot of tough matches remain.

There have been a few personnel changes but ason owley and ichard regory remain the rst choice strikers whilst the back four of Aaron oberts, ack Wilson, raig ones and anny orris with be a familiar line up. ight winger harlie owd has made a considerable impression since moving

up from the under s team whist new signings Will horrock from Walsall and Nathan ayward from Worcester ity have established themselves as rst team regulars as has new keeper an rane.

A well as the rst team porting run an under s team who are midway in the idland outh loodlit eague remier ivision outh whilst eighteen youngsters teams play in porting colours following the summer merger with antiago olts.

Off the pitch, the lub shop is open on certain days in the run up to hristmas as well as the availability of shares in the lub as a possible present for keen porting fans.

Further information can be found on our web site at www. bromsgrovesporting. co.uk.

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EDWARDS Car Repairs Your Local Car Repair & Servicing Specialist

Full Garden Transformation PATIOS • DECKING • WALLS • TURFING

We are a Family run Business which has been established since 1988 Repairs & Servicing MOT Work Welding to MOT standard All makes of Vehicles ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Artifical Grass approved fitter - call for details

Tel: 0121 445 5414

Email: enquiries@edwardscarrepairs.co.uk Website: www. edwardscarrepairs.co.uk Rear of, 8 Hewell Road, Barnt Green, B45 8NE

...We do it all!

Call now for a FREE quotation

07711 051235

Bromsgrove Sporting Football Club - Season 2018/19 Upcoming Fixtures: Tue 1st Jan Coleshill Town - Away Sat 5th Jan Berkhamsted - Home Sat 12th Jan Kidlington - Away Sat 19th Jan Dunstable Town - Away Sat 26th Jan Thame United - Home Sat 2nd Feb Yaxley - Away Sat 9th Feb Bedford Town - Home Sat 16th Feb Kempston Rovers - Home Sat 23rd Feb Peterborough Sports - Away For more information: www.bromsgrovesporting.co.uk

Do you have a function or an event? Birthday, Anniversary, Wedding, celebration, business or committee meeting?

We have two function rooms available both including bars and catering Interested? Then call our bar manager Ann on 07415 923555

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36.

Inspiring change In people

Volunteering Opportunities Onside has a range of new and exciting volunteering opportunities in Worcestershire

% NT ERT 10SCOU ADV

DI HI T H IT W

S

Please have a look and get in touch if you are interested NEW Advocacy Project—Redditch

Mix Volunteers

We are looking for volunteers to support people living in Redditch area helping them to manage their own lives & be as independent as possible ,access services and have opportunities to be active in their wider community.

Supporting Dan and the team at Mix cafe near our Worcester office; taking orders, serving customers, preparing food etc. We would especially like to hear from volunteers who would like to support people with learning difficulties.

Day & times are flexible to provide support

All roo ng work undertaken lat roof specialists omplete roofs Repairs eadwork eliable and tidy ully insured Written uotes available

Hours are 9.30am – 2.30pm Monday to Friday.

On the job training will be provided.

Reception volunteers

Read and Ride Malvern & Shrub Hill

We are seeking volunteers to answer the phone and welcome visitors to our office in Worcester.

Our office hours are:

We are seeking a volunteer for our book shop at Shrub Hill Station Worcester, who can support two young men with learning difficulties to continue their placement at Onside’s second hand bookshop. We also have opportunities at our Great Malvern Railway Station book shop.

The volunteer’s role is to check that they are okay and to identify any tasks they might do when the shop is quiet .Ideally, you may have some experience of supporting adults with learning difficulties.

9am – 4pm - Monday to Thursday 9am – 4pm Friday Volunteers can do mornings or afternoons or all day to suit.

Please contact the Volunteer Team on 01905 27525 if you are interested in any of these roles. We’ll be happy to hear from you and to answer any questions you may have.

Onside Advocacy is a Worcestershire & Herefordshire based charity which supports local people disadvantaged by disability, mental ill-health, learning difficulties and age related issues. We make a difference to over 300 people every year, through our dedicated team of experienced staff and volunteers, trained and supported to work as advocates, mentors and peer support workers.

/OnsideIndependentAdvocacy

@OnsideAdvocacy

all Wilson lose edditch B info weatherguardservices.com www.weatherguardservices.com

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Oracle Jan Feb 2019 Half:Katherine Neale

NEWBORN STUDIO PORTRAITS Arrange your newborn photoshoot now. A lovely way to record your baby’s first days.

We recommend you book your photoshoot after the 20 week scan and we aim for baby to be between 5 days and 3 weeks old. Our studio is spacious and comfortable and we welcome partners, siblings and well behaved family pets.

Contact Katherine Neale: 01527 962022 katherineneale@mac.com

Studio:Tardebigge Court, Hewell Road, B97 6QJ

www.katherinenealephotography.com

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January 2019 Friday 4th January 8.00pm - 11.00pm

Sunday 27th January 11.00am - 3.00pm

The ultimate tribute band with their best show yet! Amazing vocals, replica costumes and electrifying dance routines.

Tickets £23.50 For more details: 01527 577330 email: boxoffice@artrix.co.uk

Visit a unique setting for your wedding, civil ceremony and reception. The event showcases the best local suppliers and services for your special day.

Couples take home an exclusive Goodie Bag with complimentary copies of the latest wedding magazines.

FREE admission.

Pre-registration required.

Call: 01562 822233 carol@aspire-events.net

Take That Experience Artrix, Bromsgrove

Saturday 12th January 8.00pm - 11.00pm

The Best of Queen performed

by The Bohemians at Artrix Internationally renowned tribute band. A comprehensive re-enactment of Queenʼs Greatest Hits.

Tickets £23.50 For more details: 01527 577330 email: boxoffice@artrix.co.uk Saturday 19th January 7.30pm - 10.30pm

Burns Night Supper The Potting Shed

Three Course meal, a Haggis parade recital by Keith Webster, plus live music by Acoustica.

Tickets: £24.95 - Booking essential For more details: 0121 453 5062

Aspire Wedding Fair at Avoncroft Museum

Sunday 27th January 10.00am - 4.00pm

New Year Yoga Retreat Day Burcot Village Hall

Relax, re-engage and re-energise for a day of gentle but powerful yoga, meditation and deep relaxation. Suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced practitioners. £38.00 per person To book contact Sally: 0790 3663085 workshops@myyogamind.co.uk

Lots more local events are available on The Bromsgrove Oracle website. www.thebromsgroveoracle.co.uk

Save the Date Feb 2019:Page

14/12/18

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February 2019 Saturday 2nd February 4.00pm - 7.00pm

Primrose Hospice Lantern Walk at Hanbury Hall

Walk a beautiful one mile route around the grounds of the National Trustʼs Hanbury Hall. All participants aged 12 and above will receive a lantern and a battery operated candle to carry. Under 12ʼs will get a glow stick wrist band.

Registration fee includes a hot / cold drink from the Stables Cafe.

Adults (over 12s): £14.00 Children (under 12): £5.00 Family (2 adults / 2 children: £30.00 Under 2s free of charge.

For more details contact Anna.

01527 889796 annaw@primrosehospice.org Saturday 2nd February 10.00am - 12.00pm

Mum2mum Market Parkside Hall, Bromsgrove

Grab a bargain from the huge range of gently used goodies including clothes, toys, pushchairs and maternity wear. FREE shopping bag for first 100 shoppers.

Entry £2.00 (free after 11.30am) info@mum2mummarket.co.uk

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Saturday 9th February 8.00pm - 11.00pm

The Best of WHAM! Artrix, Bromsgrove

Fun-loving, vibrant, megamix tribute to the pop sensation of the 80ʼs who sold more than 28 million records.

Tickets £24.50 For more details: 01527 577330 email: boxoffice@artrix.co.uk Thursday 14th February 7.00pm - 9.00pm

Valentine’s Night The Potting Shed

3 course meal with live music from Alicia Benbow - singing love classics. Complimentary red rose for your loved one. £24.95 per person To book call: 0121 453 1562 info@thepottingshed.cafe Saturday 23rd February 3.00pm - 5.00pm

The Bromsgrove Young Musicians’ Platform Bromsgrove School

Showcasing young music talent in the Routh Concert Hall.

Tickets: £10.00 (children free) Call: 01527 579679

Lots more local events are available on The Bromsgrove Oracle website. www.thebromsgroveoracle.co.uk

& Interiors me & Home Interiors & Interiors 40.

Small Space? No Problem!

By Katherine Sorrell

By Katherine

By Katherine Sorrell Sorrell

a high-sleeper bed can include a desk, sofa or play area beneath. Bookcases, kitchen cupboards and wardrobes can be built right up to the ceiling, adding extra storage space, but plan for somewhere to store a ladder or step stool, too.

5. Get clever with colour. For a bright, airy, open look, opt for a unified, pale colour scheme.

Paint built-in storage and radiators the same colour as the walls to make them disappear.

mahlzeit stone grey melamine units combined with walnut repro vertical panels, £5,000, rational: 0800 160 1845; rational.de/en Small may be beautiful, but living in a small space is not always easy. Our tips will help you make the most of every room, no matter what its size.

1. To make the most of your space, draw a scale plan and check for areas that could be improved with simple changes, such as repositioning a radiator, re-hanging a door or moving furniture.

2. Storage is vital, and losing a little floor area to create built-in storage can make the room seem more streamlined and larger. Think bookshelves and cupboards in the living room, wall-to-wall wardrobes in the bedroom, floorto-ceiling shelving in the study and a tall coat cupboard in the hall. Add storage into ‘dead’ space such as chimney alcoves, around a bed head or above a doorway. Wall racks and hooks on the backs of doors are invaluable.

3. Make storage functional with internal drawers, shelves, baskets, hooks etc. so every bit of space is put to good use.

4. Aim high. In a child’s bedroom, for example,

6. Use mirror and glass to open up a room.

Think about light sources – whether sunlight or light fittings – and place mirrors to bounce light around. Choose glass or acrylic furnishings or accessories where possible for a barely-there look.

7. Select furniture carefully, avoiding deep, squishy upholstery, fussy details and bulky outlines. Simple, lightweight styles have the least impact in a small space, and anything on slender legs makes the room seem larger by increasing the visible floor area. Look for compact, folding, wheeled, extending, dual-purpose or wall-mounted furniture to provide solutions for different space problems – though it must be comfortable, fulfil its function and suit your style.

8. Make your design style cohesive throughout.

Employ complementary (pale) colours, interesting natural textures and subtle patterns for a sense of harmony and understated visual appeal.

9. Renovations allow for larger-scale alterations, even if square footage is not enlarged.

Consider replacing bulky radiators with underfloor heating, going open plan, enlarging windows, replacing doors or walls with glass to allow light to flow, or adding a mezzanine floor level.

Clear your Clutter and Create some spaCe In a small home there is simply no room for excess clutter, so be ruthless. throw or give it away, recycle or store it elsewhere. aim to do one room per week, or a few minutes a day – and get into the habit of keeping on top of it.

Oracle Page Jan Feb 2019:Carpets Rugs & Runners

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8/12/18

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Enjoy the look and feel of a beautiful NEW carpet, rug or runner in 2019

FREE ESTIMATING FITTING & UK DELIVERY

10% OFF D IS P L AY

RUGS

Huge choice of size colours & styles 30 yrs experience in the flooring industry

Shop opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9.30am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 4pm

01527 578804 8 Stourbridge Road, Bromsgrove B61 0AB sales@carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk www.carpets-rugs-runners.co.uk

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Coughton Court

We may be closed over the winter but our conservation team are still hard at work carrying out the deep clean of the house ready for when we re-open in spring. During the closed months paintings are sent away for specialist conservation, all of the brown wood furniture is dusted and museum wax is used to clean iron, steel, copper and brass which provides a protective seal for the next season.

Dates for your diary:

One specific painting which has recently received specialist conservation work is the portrait of William Herbert. William Herbert’s youngest daughter, Lady Theresa Herbert, married Sir Robert Throckmorton, 4th Baronet. Theresa died on 2 June 1723, only a few years into her marriage to Sir Robert, but Robert retained the portrait of his father-in-law; even though he went on to remarry twice. We do not know why Sir Robert retained the painting, but it could be because the Herbert family of Powis were very influential, so having a portrait of the 2nd Marquis could act as a status symbol.

Volunteer open day Sun 3 February Looking for something new to try in the New Year? Pop along to our volunteer open day and learn all about this beautiful family home. Join us for a guided tours and a chat over tea and cake.

Jigsaw Festival Fri 1 Mar – Sun 10 Mar (on open days), 11am-5pm Hundreds of donated jigsaws on sale. All money raised goes towards vital conservation work at Coughton. If you have any jigsaws to donate please call the property on 01789 400777.

The portrait has been displayed on the main staircase of Coughton for many years but to mark the rehanging of paintings in the Blue Drawing Room at Powis Castle and Gardens, William will be returning home to take up his place next to his wife, Mary Herbert.

Are you looking to try something new or take up a new hobby? We are seeking volunteers in a variety of roles to become part of our warm and friendly team. There are lots of exciting volunteering opportunities available for people of all Open 11am—5pm (last admission ages and interests including Room Guides, Ca4.30pm) tering and Retail Assistants, Welcome Hosts For more information and details on how to volunteer with us please visit the and Volunteer Gardeners. website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

Twitter @NTCoughton

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A Place of Development, Support and Learning

. Day Nursery . Before and After School Clubs . Holiday Club . Excellent Ofsted Report 49 Victoria Road, Bromsgrove B61 0DW 01527 831 150

castlenursery@talktalkbusiness.net www.the-castle-day-nursery.co.uk

MASTER BUTCHER amily run business rom minor repair to a new roof lat roof specialists uttering, ascias of ts nsurance work carried out OA discounts All chimney work carried out repointed and rebuilt All ridge tiles repointed and rebedded

Constantly in pursuit of excellence

All Work arries full Written uarantee nsurance backed guarantees available

NO PAYMENT TILL 100% SATISFIED ou are in safe hands with a airtrades Trustmark member

We do our best to source the best quality produce from farmers and suppliers who care!

Join us....

Tel: 01527 874526 149 Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B61 0JZ

L

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SINESS DIREC U B TO L A R C Y O

HELP GET YOUR BUSINESS FOUND AND NOTICED Call Lyndon 07972 000843

Babbas & Bubbles Stay & Play Baby & Toddler Groups in Redditch Tel: 07870 642570

Email: babbasandbubbles@yahoo.co.uk

Independent Financial Advice 0121 445 5694 martin.pryor@ppm-ifa.co.uk www.ppm-ifa.co.uk

Cottage Heritage Quality Handmade Candles for all Occasions claudia@cottageheritage.co.uk www.cottageheritage.co.uk 07775 648505

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Bright Future Computers Providing a Complete Suite of IT Solutions

01527 832120 www.brightfuturepc.co.uk

www.perpetualwellbeing.co.uk The Conservatory, Kidderminster Road, Dodford, Bromsgrove, B61 9DU

01527 877622

“Some call it a mysterious method, some call it nothing short of miraculous�

Tel: 01564 824051 Mob: 07725 882097 www.bowenstherapy.co.uk

0121 667 9540 / 07792 445150 www.travelcounsellors.co.uk

michelle.waters@travelcounsellors.com

Alcott Wedding and Events www.alcottweddings.co.uk Tel: 07725 882097 Icknield St, Alvechurch, B48 7EH

The Life After Stroke Centre Bromsgrove

5 Church Lane, Bromsgrove, B61 8RA

LASCevents@stroke.org.uk 01527 903903

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Alcott Farm B&B Tel: 01564 824051 Mob: 07736445188 www.alcottfarm.co.uk Alcott Farm, Icknield Street Weatheroak, Alvechurch, Worcs, B48 7EH

www.bromsgrovedogbeauticians.co.uk

The Ryland Centre Est. 1976

Kirsty Paget 01527 872939 Little Lane, 16 Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, bromsgrovedogbeauticians@hotmail.co.uk

01527 575 387

info@rylandcentre.co.uk www.rylandcentre.co.uk New Road, Bromsgrove B60 2JS

Nicky Hair & Beauty Mobile Hair & Beauty in Bromsgrove Mobile: 07792 728 167 Email: nickyday13@gmail.com Tel: 01527 871051 St Godwalds Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 3BW

Mob: 07770 227666 colin@originalregistrations.co.uk www.originalregistrations.co.uk

www.primrosehospice.org/home

01527 578495 07817 015131

Personalised Art Sally Balcombe 07806 635328

sallybsmurals@gmail.com www.facebook.com/sallybsart

www.bromsgrovehottubservices.co.uk

Murals, Wall Art, Gifts & Decorations

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Osprey House, Albert Street, Redditch B97 4DE

0844 880 2500 info@howcollege.ac.uk

Fertility Boxes and Products for you and your Conception Journey

Bromsgrove Library www.ttcandme.com

info@ttcandme.com

Parkside, Market Street, Bromsgrove, B61 8DA

01905 822722

Email: BromsgroveLib@worcestershire.gov.uk

Ashboroughs Farmhouse

Bed and Breakfast Old Burcot Lane, Bromsgrove B60 1PH

Tel: 07415 321614

PWR BUILDERS

Builders in Bromsgrove

07743 897123 21 Kenyon Close, Bromsgrove Worcestershire, B60 2DL

with Wellbeing solutions for individuals, young and old, at home, in school and in the workplace.

Lisa Aytok

07773 392102 info@createwelllives.co.uk www.createwelllives.co.uk

Rebecca Saving you money on your utility bills rebc@outlook.com

07773 303775

p to

iscount is sub ect to order uantity. T s apply. This offer cannot be used in con unction with any other offer. eliant Windows td reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time.

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A epresentative ome mprovement oans are provided sub ect to application and status. eliant Windows td are authorised and regulated by the inancial onduct Authority as a credit broker, not a lender. minimum order value applied to all nance plans. ample