Families Hereford and Worcester issue 22 - July/August 2013

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years

Issue No 22 July/August 2013

Picture courtesy of Claire Greenway (www.clairegreenway.co.uk)

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

News & Views

Editor’s Letter

Congratulation to Debbie of Glitz n Giggles

Dear readers This issue is all about Summer. In The Big Summer Holiday feature, Robina, a fellow Families Editor, offers some great advice and tips on surviving the family holidays.

I’ve written about our holiday in Witley Court and Gardens Kent over the Spring half term and Joanna Moorhead has 20 wonderful activities to try and even better some of them don’t cost a penny!

If you are looking for Children’s Summer Workshops and Holiday Clubs then there is plenty of choice out there and we also have a really extensive What’s on listing so you will be spoilt for choice on where to go. Please mention Families Hereford and Worcester when you contact venues.

If you would like to advertise your business in the Sep/Oct issue of Families Hereford and Worcester and reach 44,000 parents then call me on 01386 791422 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk. We offer free advice and a free design service. Copy deadline is Friday 9th August.

Have a fantastic summer break.

Karen Craven (local Mum of 3, Step Mum to 2 plus Adoptive Mum to Salsa our retriever)

Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Tel: 01386 791422 Mob: 07981 564053 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Debbie and baby Abigail

I wanted to share this lovely photo with all my readers of Debbie of Glitz n Giggles and her new baby Abigail.

As well as being a busy Mum of two, Debbie also runs Glitz n Giggles and provides fabulous pamper parties for girls and pirate or dinosaur parties for boys. Invitations and party bags are also included in the price so most of the work is done for you!

For more information do visit www.glitzngiggles.vpweb.co.uk/ or email pamperfairy@glitzngiggles.vpweb.co.uk tel 07817 704933 for more details.

New recruits needed for 1st Fladbury Rainbows 1st Fladbury Rainbows are looking for girls aged 5-7 years to join them.

They meet every Wednesday from 4.45 – 5.45 pm. Part of the girl guiding movement, Rainbows is about developing self-confidence, making new friends, learning new things. You can have a go at arts and crafts, cooking and playing games plus lots more. For more information call Esbe Bruce on 07795 050705 or Esther Weetman on 07812 791673.

Queen Cakes

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In this issue 02 02 04 05 09 10 12 13 16

Editor’s Letter News & Views Ed’s Reading Room Education The Big Summer Holiday What I learned on my holidays Editor’s Holiday in Kent Summer Holiday Clubs and Workshops What’s On

Next issue: Sep/Oct 2013, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 9th August

Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

All content Copyright 2013 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, preschools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us.

Families Hereford and Worcester is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All 40 franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the content nor for any consequence.

Design: Natalie Schmidt at www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440 Cover Photograph: Claire Greenway at www.clairegreenway.co.uk

“Love the publication! Keep it coming. Fresh and innovative” this is what one of our readers had to say about Families H and W 2

Hereford & Worcester

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Lynne Williams & Mary Hilton with a cake fit for a Queen

When Lynne Williams set up The Little Cupcake Bakery in 2011, at her home on Royal Worcester Crescent, little did she know she would be baking cakes by Royal Appointment just a few years later!

In February, Lynne and her business partner, Mary Hilton, were approached by Land Rover to create two special cakes for The Royal Windsor Horse Show. One was for The Count and Countess of Wessex’s five year old son James for a private function on May 7 and the second was a special cake for Her Majesty The Queen in recognition of the 70th Anniversary of The Royal Windsor Horse Show. The baking duo were invited to Windsor Castle in May where they personally presented their culinary creation to The Queen. “The whole experience has been amazing from start to finish and a once in a lifetime opportunity. We were thrilled to be asked to create this cake and spent many hours from designing to baking to putting the finishing touches to it, complete with model Windsor Castle and Royal Standard flag. To meet the Queen and shake her hand was a memory that we won’t forget in a very long time!” says Lynne.

They also appeared in an ITV documentary about The Windsor Horse show in June. www.thelittlecupcakebakery.co.uk www.theboutiquebakehouse.co.uk In the May/June issue we published an article Imagine ... . The contact details should have read Nibbhaya and email is dhnibbhaya@gmail.com 07791 593180.

July – August 2013

Celebrity hair colourist and Prince’s Trust Ambassador, Daniel Galvin Jr, introduces Dubble Trubble, a collection of five pH balanced Hair & Body washes and a Detangling mist, all utilising organic botanical extracts. Launching exclusively at Morrisons’ stores nationwide and online, the sales of the products will help raise money for The Prince’s Trust, with Daniel donating a total of £25,000 of the proceeds to the youth charity in the first 12 months.

My son, also called Daniel, was lucky enough to try the products recently and they smell good enough to eat!

The Dubble Trubble collection is targeted for children from the age of 3 – 12 years. www.dubbletrubble.com

Mums and dads can you help?

TV company betty is developing a FACTUAL DRAMA about childcare.

Hiring a nanny or an au pair can be a great solution to returning to work and ensuring your kids receive high-quality childcare. But, with the cost of living sky-high, parents are all too often forced to cut corners and rushed into hiring someone unsuitable for them – and there are times when it can go horribly wrong. Whether you’re a parent, nanny or au pair, we’d like to hear about what the challenges have been for you. Your contribution would be in confidence and you would not be identified in the programme.

Contact Saskia on 0771 5111997 or saskia.wilson@betty.co.uk www.betty.co.uk

The English Seaside

By Peter Williams Published by English Heritage Paperback, £14.99 The English invented the seaside holiday in the 18th century. From helter-skelters to lighthouses, pirates, palmists and Punch and Judy, The English Seaside presents a brilliantly vivid photographic record of the gems of today’s English coastline. Peter Williams visits over 170 beaches in England from Beaulieu to Holy Island and Ainsdale to Yarmouth capturing over 600 stunning images of this cherished and rapidly changing English landscape. This book really does capture the essence of a good old English seaside holiday.

May – June 2013

Worcester chosen to host UK’s first international festival for children’s and youth choirs Making the ideal entertainment to kick-start the school holidays, come into Worcester between 19-27 July to enjoy a unique event: the first-ever non-competitive festival for international children’s and youth choirs taking place in the UK. The city and county will be buzzing during the Worcester International Festival for Young Singers 2013 which is bringing 400 young singers from some of the most outstanding youth choirs in the world to Worcestershire. Ten outstanding youth choirs in nine countries, as well as students from the UK, share their national musical traditions and cultures in a week-long event featuring a range of public concerts, street singing and workshops culminating in a Gala Concert in Worcester Cathedral.

News & Views

Dubble Trubble by Galvin & Galvin London in aid of the Prince’s Trust

Most concerts are free (although tickets may be required due to seating limitations at some venues).

Tickets for the Welcome and Gala Concerts in the Cathedral are on sale via Worcester Live Box Office, Crowngate, telephone 01905 611427.

The full listing of concerts in local churches and booking information is available at http://www.singuk.org/wifys/festival-events.

Competitions

ster on , simply regi tions below ti pe m co to e of th o.uk and go To enter all andworcs.c rd fo s re he ti es /Competi on www.famili dworcs.co.uk an rd es! fo iz re pr c eshe e fantasti www.famili inning thes w of ce an h a ch to be in wit

WIN an Easy2Name Off to School set We have 5 Easy2Name Off to School sets to give away, each set is worth £18.90 and contains 30 waterproof stickers, 30 iron on name tapes, 1 set of shoe covers, 1 bag tag and 1 shoe bag.

Enter online – deadline: Friday 9th August add your full postal address.

Please state clearly the name of your child and whether you require the shoe bag in red, lilac or blue.

The full Easy2Name range can be seen at www.easy2name.com

WIN a pair of tickets to the Stratford Food Festival The Stratford Food Festival 2013 is set to be bigger and better than ever this year with over 100 food and drink exhibitors. Headline act for Saturday is Sophie Michell previously presenting on Channel 4’s Cook Yourself Thin.

Headlining Sunday is Paul Hollywood from BBC’s The Great British Bakeoff.

The Festival is held at Stratford Racecourse on Saturday 14th 10am – 7pm and Sunday 15th September 10am – 5pm. Children under 16 go free. Complimentary car parking and shuttle bus service from Stratford town centre will be available.

Enter online – deadline: Friday 16th August www.stratfordfoodfestival.co.uk

WIN tickets to travel back in time at Goodrich Castle!

With medieval ruins, a scrumptious tea room and a stunning location overlooking the valley of Symonds Yat, Goodrich Castle is always a great choice for a family day out.

This summer intrepid young explorers can also enjoy all the fun of a medieval castle in a series of time-travelling events – and we’ve got three family tickets to give away!

Each ticket is valid for two adults and three children to attend the event of their choice over the Summer Holidays. Winners could experience the thrill of a castle under siege, meet Robin Hood and his band of merry men, or discover what it takes to be a champion knight or perfect princess as they are transported back in time to Goodrich’s glorious past.

For your chance to win, just answer this simple question: Which infamous outlaw can you meet at Goodrich Castle this summer? a) The Artful Dodger b) Robin Hood c) Long John Silver Enter online – deadline: Friday 19th July Find out more about Goodrich Castle at www.english-heritage.org.uk/ goodrich

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Ed’s Reading Room FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Monty Wins the Cup by Jake Sparks (Egmont £4.99)

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

ED SAYS: ‘Danny’s birthday begins with an amazing surprise. He receives a shiny silver key for his very own racing car – a car that runs on chocolate milkshake! Danny is very excited and enters Monty in the Tooting Wallop Road Race. Although a shadow is cast over the race when the sneering Hugo de Horrible arrives on the scene, Danny is determined to show what Monty can do.

‘This is a delightful story for young readers. It is an exciting adventure with colourful characters complemented by fantastic illustrations throughout.’

My Funny Family on Holiday by Chris Higgins (Hodder £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Hooray! It’s holiday time and Mattie’s family are going to Cornwall. As usual Mattie has lots of things on her Worry List – worst of all, what if they forgot somebody? When they arrive at Sunset Farm there so many new things to see and do. Camping is great fun and when it gets dark after the barbecue on the beach, it is absolutely magical sitting by the fire under the night sky.

But who is Mattie’s new friend? And what is the story behind the old photograph?

‘This story about Mattie’s family holiday is beautifully told.

It can be enjoyed by boys and girls alike, on their own or reading together.’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

A great day out!

Bring the family to this award winning centre for a great day out with fishing, Visit our wildlife trails, small “What’s on” pages at www.cobhouse.org animals and a play area. to keep up to date Then pop to our cafe for with lots of free coffee with cake or a hearty events breakfast or lunch.

To visit the animals is free!

• Children’s birthday parties • Educational visits • Angling lessons • Café… and lots, lots more!

Cob House, Worcester Road, Wichenford, Worcs WR6 6YE t: 01886 888517 www.cobhouse.org

The Abominators by J L Smith (Little, Brown £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘The Abominators are top of the class for mischief. When Cecil Trumpington-Potts starts Grimely East there is nothing more he would like than to be in the gang.

But they have other ideas – they don’t want to be friends with someone they regard as a namby-pamby toff. They set Cecil three tasks that they think he has no chance whatsoever of doing. But what if Cecil succeeded? Would they have to let him become a member of the gang?

‘This is a hilarious story that will have boys and girls laughing out loud at Cecil’s attempts to be cool enough to be one of the Abominators. The book is packed full of brilliant illustrations.’

The Mystery of Wickworth Manor by Elen Caldecott (Bloomsbury £5.99)

Sytchampton Endowed First School We are a village first school with a strong family ethos. We can offer you enthusiastic and dedicated staff, a spacious rural environment, excellent facilities with an emphasis on each individual child. We are situated on the A449 between Worcester and Kidderminster. We are part of the Droitwich Pyramid of schools and feed into Westacre or Witton Middle Schools.

Places available in most year groups.

To make an appointment to visit us and meet our new Headteacher and friendly staff please telephone us on Tel: 01905 620418 Email: office@sytchamptonfirst.worcs.sch.uk

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ED SAYS: ‘Curtis and Paige are two very different people who are thrown together on a school trip. They are supposed to be mixing with all the other children while canoeing, climbing and taking part in Art projects. However, when they find an old painting at the top of Wickworth Manor, they become involved in solving a mystery from years ago to do with the family at the manor. Could dreadful deeds to do with the slave trade have taken place?

And can Curtis and Paige solve the mystery using their own different methods?

‘This is a brilliantly written book. There is an underlying serious tone but the story reads as a fun, action-packed adventure.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.

You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

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July – August 2013

Education Getting ready for school … Discover (or rediscover!) the joy of reading …

The beginning of the new school year can seem a long way off as the summer holidays begin. The ideal situation for students is to forget about learning altogether!

But we know, as parents and carers, that holidays present new opportunities for gaining knowledge and understanding. One of the best ways for our children to learn is through reading.

Apart from providing tremendous enjoyment, reading increases vocabulary, helps improve spelling and inspires the imagination.

So why not make reading something pleasurable. Here are a few tips from First Class Learning to help your children with their reading:• Talk about the outside of the book before you even open it.

Does the title sound intriguing? What’s on the front cover?

What clues does it give us about the book? Is there a blurb on the back? Does it make us want to read the book?

• Share the reading – a page each, a paragraph each, a sentence each. Take a character each and become actors!

It is not ‘babyish’ to be read to. In fact being read to can inspire and allow the imagination to be more creative!

• When it’s your turn to read, read with expression, and encourage your child to do the same to make the story come alive. Talk about punctuation – how should we change our voices at a question mark to make the question sound real? What about italics or bold type – or CAPITAL LETTERS? • Encourage your child to predict by stopping at an exciting part of the story and asking, “What do you think will happen next?” “How will they put things right?”

• Ask your child’s opinions – of the plot, the characters, the language – and share your own.

• Encourage your child to reread books. They wouldn’t dream of playing a really good computer game just once, or eating a delicious type of sweet just once – so why read a really good book just once?

• Join your local library. Many run holiday competitions and all can join in. Try not to rush a visit to the library – take time to enjoy making choices.

• Don’t worry if your child occasionally wants to read a book that you think is ‘too easy’. There’s no such thing! Books aren’t tests!

Independent Speech & Language Therapy Service – for children from birth to 16 years old.

• Baby Signing Classes – have fun and support the development of your baby’s early communication skills • Assessment, diagnosis and therapy for children who have speech, language and/or communication difficulties.

• Flexible appointments offered at a time and in the setting that most suits your child’s needs (eg home, school, nursery) • Liaison and support with nurseries and schools when required • Outcome focused therapy – saving you money by ensuring we only provide the therapy you need • Appointments offered within 2 weeks Contact: Nicki Holmes nicki_mason@hotmail.com / 07890161792 or Nibbhaya dhnibbhaya@gmail.com / 07791593180.

Worcestershire and South Midlands

Professional Ultrasound Services Throughout Pregnancy Suite 14, Hallow Park, Hallow, Worcestershire, WR2 6PG

01905 317575

info@babyface4d.co.uk www.babyface4d.co.uk

HypnoBirthing offers an approach that helps women achieve a drug-free, calm, relaxed, comfortable labour and birth.

More and more people are discovering HypnoBirthing and experiencing calmer, easier and more comfortable births. Join them by reaping the benefits which can include: u Shorter labour u Eliminate or reduce the need for pain relief u Reduce the likelihood of a surgical birth u Provide a supportive role for birthing partner

L ily R ose H ypno B irthing, based in the Worcestershire area, will help you feel more relaxed and free of fear so you can enjoy your pregnancy and birth by teaching a mixture of specifically tailored breathing techniques, deep relaxation, visualisation and easy to learn self-hypnosis to allow your body to birth your baby in the way it is perfectly designed to do.

Contact me, Dr Ann Laight (DClinPsy), Affiliated HypnoBirthing Practitioner, at ann@lilyrosehypnobirthing.co.uk or call 07889 055 528

www.lilyrosehypnobirthing.co.uk

At First Class Learning we believe that children can make great progress – especially when we as parents and carers take an active interest in their learning. It’s a journey we can enjoy together!

If you would like to know more about how First Class Learning can help your children with English or maths please do get in touch!

Andrew & Sara Wisdom, First Class Learning – Kidderminster 01562 68039 / 07969 674026 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk May – June 2013

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Education

Keep their brain active over the summer holidays with Kumon

Local author visits Inkberrow First School

Learning is just like exercise: take several weeks off and the treadmill feels a lot steeper when you finally get back on. It’s no different with maths and reading. Research suggests that a long break without any mental activity can result in a decline of mathematical, reading and language skills as well as concentration levels.

Daily Kumon study can help make all the difference when it comes to keeping ‘in shape’ between school terms and throughout the year. At your local Worcester West Study Centre, Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes tailored to all ages and abilities. Established for over 50 years, the Kumon programmes enable children to develop their independent study skills and confidently tackle advanced work beyond the international standard for their age.

Students initially start at a comfortable level with a focus on building a strong foundation in the way they study; they will develop invaluable study skills such as concentration, pace and rhythm before progressing to more advanced work.

The Worcester West Study Centre is located at St John’s Parish Church on Bromyard Road.

For more information, or to book a Free Assessment, contact Sacha Elsey on 01905 811018 or email worcesterwest@kumoncentre.co.uk.

Holy Trinity International School ‘Free School Confirmed’

Holy Trinity International School is to become a Government Free School as of September 2014.

Providing an outstanding education for girls and boys aged 4 to 19, the school also has a thriving Nursery and is renowned for academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care.

Recent GCSE results speak for themselves – 100% of students gained 5 A* - C grades.

Contact us to register!

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Helen Wendy Cooper, local children’s author and illustrator from Tenbury Wells, visited Inkberrow First School back in May. She has written two Shape Land books, Trevor Triangle loses the mail and Silly Samuel Square, which help teach the foundations of mathematics in a fun way guaranteed to help children remember their shapes. Helen is also the author of The Vegetarian Vampire: Halloween Disco and she launches a sequel to this, The Vegetarian Vampire: The lost fangs in September at Tenbury Wells library.

The children had a fabulous time meeting a real author. Helen read to each class and held two Creating Characters workshops for the older children where they had to make up their own characters and write a story. She showed the children the first book she made when she was a teenager which certainly inspired some to think you are never too young to start writing.

To contact Helen email info@helenwendycooper.co.uk or visit www.helenwendycooper.co.uk for information on purchasing her books.

Visit TomTag is a new www.orkidideas.com invention by two before 31st Aug 2013 mums that helps using code FAM10 and receive children to be 10% off. more organised and independent. It is a colourful daily checklist that clips to a school bag and is practical and fun to use. Picture cues identify the items a child needs to take with them so is also suitable for non-readers and those with additional needs. Each pack contains 6 colourful button holders, one for each day of the week, plus an extra tag to list the items a child needs every day. www.orkidideas.com July – August 2013

Contact

OMBERSLEY ENDOWED FIRST SCHOOL

01905 620384 www.ombersley.worcs.sch.uk

Thursday 11th July 3.30 – 6.00 pm

Award-winning tuition – 25% off when you join in July Explore Learning centres across the UK provide maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning that families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership.

Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, meaning that Explore tuition fits easily into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum. This combination of benefits has led to the company being named Supplementary Education Provider of the Year at the prestigious Education Investor Awards for the past 2 years running.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. Also, families joining in July will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition at participating centres, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has centres across the UK – try us for free to find out how your family can benefit! To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre.

May – June 2013

Labels4kids

Families Magazine customers can get 10% discount on the new site using the code ‘families’ at the checkout.

Education

Schools’ Open Days Dates

Ann-Maree Morrison, founder of www.labels4kids.com was recently invited by 10 Downing Street and the UK Department of Business, Innovation and Skills to join their EU E-Commerce Task Force in London.

Ann-Maree has been busy developing the next generation of the Labels4Kids website which launched mid May and is a big change to the old one. Still ironing out all the bugs will take a while but Ann-Maree would encourage Families customers to take a look around the new site and provide their feedback, both positive and negative. “We have invested a huge amount of money in this site and it would be nice to know if it is meeting the needs of our customers and where we still need to work on improvement. The new site has many more video clips which can also be viewed on Labels4KidsTV on youtube, and an onscreen design facility for vinyl labels for some packs which will be rolled across all the vinyl labels if it works well for our customers” says Ann-Maree.

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7 Hereford & Worcester

Education Spotlight on Mrs Sharon Williams, new Head Teacher at Sytchampton Endowed First School First of all, could you tell me a little bit about the history of the school?

Sytchampton Endowed First School is a small, friendly school in an exceptional outdoor rural setting and is part of The Lloyd’s Educational Foundation (a charitable trust). This means that the building and grounds are owned by the Foundation and it is therefore classed as a voluntary aided school. The front of the school is Grade 2 listed and is very well situated on the A449 which is the main Kidderminster – Worcester road. We tend to draw pupils, not only from the immediate catchment areas of Stourport and Ombersley, but also the surrounding areas including Dunhampton, Lineholt, Doverdale and Acton.

Could you tell me a little bit about yourself?

This is my first Headship but I have worked as Acting Head twice before. I moved from Corby in Northamptonshire in April to take up the post at Sytchampton. After 9 years of teaching primary school children I felt ready to take up a challenge of headship. On graduating from Birmingham University I worked for Marks & Spencer as a Commercial Manager. I had a career break to spend time with my young family, and then worked as a Business Manager within a secondary school before completing my teaching qualifications.

Do you have children and what do you like doing in your spare time?

I have two grown up children aged 23 and 25 – a son and daughter. In my spare time I enjoy watching my son play semiprofessional rugby and to relax, I also enjoy playing golf, badly, with my husband and friends!

What changes do you intend to make, if any, at the school?

I want to maintain the village ethos and high standards. This is a friendly, approachable, happy school with a personal touch where the emphasis is on each individual. I have been impressed with the fabulous support from Governors, parents, children, teachers and the PTA. 8

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The priority is to further develop the curriculum and improve the learning environment. My first priority is to reflect our creative working environment within the school which celebrates children’s work and follows an agreed theme. I also want to integrate computers into all classrooms and create a new library. We are also focusing on the early years outdoor area and will be building a canopy over part of it so it can be used all year round. I am also keen to establish links with neighbouring schools.

What extra curricular activity clubs do you offer the children?

We have a variety of clubs including Arts and crafts, gardening, French, music and sports. We also have a popular breakfast and after school club run by an outside provider PALS (Play Adventure Learning After School) who run sessions in the school hall and have use of the school facilities including the grounds.

In terms of transition to middle school, where do most of your children go?

We are part of the Droitwich Pyramid of Schools, feeding into Witton or Westacre Middle Schools.

A few children go onto private education and some go into the primary sector. Our families are split with 40% coming from the Stourport direction and 60% from Droitwich.

Do you have spaces available in the school?

Yes we do. We are nearly full in reception but have places in other classes. If you would like to look around the school then please give us a ring on 01905 620418, to arrange a visit.

If you could change places with someone for a day, who would that be and why?

I love sport so if I could change places with someone for a day I would love to be a Sports Commentator like Gaby Logan.

I would really enjoy interviewing famous sports people and hearing all about their experiences.

Sytchampton PTA is a registered charity and exists to raise money for the school. They are arranging Sytchampton Summer Ball & Auction of Promises at Worcestershire County Cricket Club on Thursday 18th July. If you would like to book a table then please contact the school.

For more information visit www.sytchamptonfirst.worcs.sch.uk July – August 2013

Claire Greenway at www.clairegreenway.co.uk

Summer t Add a small ‘emergency bag’ to your hand luggage, with plasters, tissues, sachets of paracetamol, cotton wool, needle and thread, safety pins, wetwipes and a few sweets (for bribing and wiping away tears). Oh the satisfying feeling to have what you need just at the right time! t Leave a spare set of keys with a friendly neighbour in case of home emergencies, losing yours or locking yourself out (I’ve done that just when we were about to leave!) t Cancel the newspapers and ask your friendly neighbour to return the wheelie bins to your property on collection day, so you’re not advertising an empty home.

The Big Summer Holiday – Tips for Travellers

On the way

By Robina Cowan

Yippee! It’s the break we’ve all been dreaming of and looking forward to through the dank winter and spring months – here comes this year’s summer holiday. Hands up who remembers when it was just you and your beloved, grabbing a cheap deal, filling a backpack at the last minute and heading for the sun?

Those were the good old days... Now you’re a family, there’s a third ‘p’ to add to ‘passport and packing’ – ‘planning’.

Here at Families (now a mighty group of 40 local magazines), the editors have children spanning all ages from three months to the early twenties, so you could say we’ve been there, done that. We put our heads together to pool our experience and best ideas for you. Happy travelling!

Before you go t Label your child’s clothes, towels and backpacks, especially if you will be using kids’ clubs – they WILL go missing. Labels 4 Kids (www.labels4kids.com/fam) and Easy 2 Name (www. easy2name.com) both stock packs of instant labels so the job’s a breeze and it’s a much cheaper solution than replacing lost items. They also have ID wristbands so you can label the children with your contact details t Use GoogleStreet View with the children to look round your planned location and help get familiarised with the landscape, ‘foreign’ signs and local attractions. You can also use it to create a list of places to visit t Photocopy everyone’s passport and keep the copies in a different place. If the originals go missing, proof that you had passports will make it much easier to tussle with overseas authorities when it’s time to come home t Have up to date pictures of your children on your phone – if they go missing you can show authorities what they look like t Freeze food to await your return – even fresh milk can be frozen – so you don’t come home to an empty kitchen.

Some very organised mothers even do an online shop towards the end of their holiday, for delivery on their first day home. Now, that’s organisation! t Lost luggage is a nightmare. Rather than filling one suitcase per person, pack a couple of daytime and evening outfits for everyone in each case so you can all get started while the hotel/airline tracks down the missing bag t Involve your children in the packing even if just a small part is their responsibility. It occupies them while you are busy and gets them into the holiday mood. Then check their choices: you may find fancy dress costumes and nothing sensible (OK, I admit this is from experience!)

May – June 2013

t Long car journeys are not all about being plugged into gadgets. Try story tapes – as a family, we are all totally addicted to the ‘How to Train your Dragon’ series. The ‘Michelin I-Spy’ activity books are great fun, as are the free downloads from www.rac.co.uk/advice/car-knowledge/top-ten/ car-games/. I made up some sheets myself for a journey through France and they kept my boys amused for hours t For flights, Usborne’s ‘50 Things do on a Plane’ will keep them occupied, rrp £5.99, while the Top Trumps range is great for older children, especially if you’re willing to join in t Flying is the one time I am relaxed about screen time – if you have electrical gadgets, use them. Make sure you have some child friendly headphones to hand so as not to ‘share’ your child’s love of Peppa Pig with the entire plane t Sucky sweets (as they are known in our house) are great for little ones who struggle with their ears on take off. Give babies a bottle (or breast-feed) to stop their ears popping t Pack an extra layer for the flight even if you’re flying from a warm UK to a tropical destination. Planes can be chilly and children won’t relax if they’re not cosy t If your child is crying on the flight, don’t panic. Most of the passengers on board will be either parents or grandparents and will have sympathy for you. Your priority is settling your child in the best way you can. If your child has a favourite teddy or comfort blanket, make sure it’s in your hand luggage.

It may help calm them and that in turn will calm you.

While you’re there t Resist the temptation to Facebook your day’s antics – you’re advertising that you are away and your home’s empty.

Not a good idea t When packing to come home, check the back of every drawer, cupboard and even under the beds for favourite toys that might be lurking unseen. Have a quick rifle through the hotel/resort Lost Property box for mislaid hats/t-shirts etc (patting yourself on the back for labelling them beforehand).

When you return t Take your holiday laundry for a service wash – it’s a small price to pay for not having to sort, wash and dry all those gritty beach towels and sunscreen covered t-shirts.

AND finally Work on a 70:30 ratio. Holidays are not effortless when you have children, just as life at home is not effortless. If you can enjoy 70% of the time you are away together, that’s a result. 30% will be about tantrums, tiredness and bad moods. But if you come home knowing that for most of the time, you relaxed, laughed and enjoyed the time spent together as a family, it’s been a success! www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9 Hereford & Worcester

Claire Greenway at www.clairegreenway.co.uk

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01531 670 780

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10

What I learned on my holidays...

Hereford & Worcester

The long summer break is almost upon us; but whether you’re having a staycation or going away, why not fold some learning into your vacation plans? We’ve got 20 great ideas for skills you and your family can master over the weeks ahead – wherever you are.

1. Sleep outdoors: nothing says ‘summer’ like the chance to kip outside. If you can, find a campsite where you can go for a few days; but if you can’t get away, put up a tent in the garden. No tent? Borrow one. You’ll be amazed at the amount of fun kids can have with a few torches under canvas. Make sure they have lots of snacks – and don’t forget the singsongs!

2. Find a geocache: geocaching is like a treasure hunt where you use a GPS device to find a container which will have some small items (maybe toys) inside.

It’s fun, exciting, and there’s lots to learn (about orienteering, geography, exploration, the environment). For more information see www.geocaching.com 3. Go wild swimming: swimming in rivers and lakes may sound an experience not a learning activity – but swimming in a natural environment helps kids learn about nature, and it’s a totally different experience from swimming in a pool, even an outdoor one. See www.wildswimming.co.uk for ideas of where to try it out.

4. Climb a tree: there’s so much to learn in tree-climbing: how to deal with the unexpected, how to trust your own judgement, how to take a risk and how to manage failure. You learn that it’s harder to come down than to go up, and you learn how to look after your friend who falls out of the tree. And they’re all life skills that are useful for ever.

5. Fly a kite: gem up on wind direction, find a suitable open space, and make or invest in a kite. Read up online on how to launch a kite, and go for it! You’ll get a tremendous sense of satisfaction as your kite dances across the sky.

6. Have a treasure hunt: there are loads of different ways to run a treasure hunt, so read up on the different methods online. It’s all down to good planning, so don’t stint on that: you’ll spend more time on planning than on the event itself.

As a rough rule of thumb, kids can manage twice as many clues as their age.

7. Make a movie: with the arrival of the iPhone and the iPad, it’s never been easier to make a (surprisingly professional) home movie. Choose your location, put together your storyboard and... action! There are various apps that can make filming easier (eg filmic pro, which locks the camera’s settings for the duration of a shot).

8. Build a den: it’s come to symbolise childhood freedom, and there’s little doubt it’s an activity children (and their parents) absolutely love. Dens are best built in woods, but even a small garden or a bedroom will do as a venue. The secret is to allow your child to let his/her imagination run wild (and not worry too much about the tidying up afterwards).

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

July – August 2013

Summer 9. Ride a horse: some kids are pony-mad, but even those who don’t do regular lessons usually love at least the occasional chance to ride. Look up a riding school and see what they can offer in terms of a one-off experience; ideally, you’ll want to go too.

10. Find your way using a map and compass: Learn to use a map and compass: whether you’re in a city or the country, whether it’s somewhere you know or somewhere new to you, there’s loads to learn from this. There are lots of permanent orienteering courses at country parks and National Trust properties that you can have a go at, often for as little as £1! You can find the courses near you at http://www.britishorienteering.org.uk/index.php?pg=89 A good activity to do en famille; also great to acclimatise children with maps and their usefulness.

11. Track wild animals: again this is something that can be done in the outback, the local park, or your back garden. Your children are looking for signs that animals have been here: pawprints, claw marks, scuff marks and – most fascinating of all for most kids – poo.

12. Catch a fish: if you’re new to fishing, use a net. Find water that’s clean and clear, and where you can see there are lots of fish. Then be patient, and ready to pounce.

13. Identify wild flowers: there are so many beautiful wild flowers, and it feels knowledgeable when you know what’s what. Choose an area rich in wild foliage, and take a book or leaflet with you to help you with identification.

14. Cook on a campfire: sausages and marshmallows are the obvious contenders – but you can be more ambitious than that! You can cook anything on a campfire. Try frying eggs, grilling fish, warming burritos, making risotto. Kids will eat things they’d never eat at home when they’ve been whizzed up on a campfire.

15. Go bird watching: if you’ve never done it, and know little about birds, the best thing to do is go to an RSPB sanctuary. Take your binoculars, read the guides, and use the hides.

16. Build a raft: there are courses in raft-building; but there are also instructions (on the internet). It takes time, and teamwork, and effort; but there’s nothing like the feeling of finding it floats!

17. Identify at least ten constellations: invest in a good chart, wait for a dark night, keep your eyes peeled.

You get a huge sense of satisfaction, and awe, when you manage to do it.

18. Make a family tree: learning about your family history is a fascinating way to put flesh on the bones of history lessons. What’s more, grandparents and great-aunts and uncles won’t always be around to fill you in – so ask the questions now.

19. Start a collection: it can be anything – football cards, postcards, photographs of funfairs you’ve visited, pebbles from beaches you’ve been to. You can collect experiences as well as items: keep a book where you short review of every film you watch, every book you read, or a description of every day out you have. Collections aren’t about WHAT they are, they’re about learning to organise your thoughts in a coherent, logical way.

20. Learn a good card or magic trick: it takes practice, but it’s enormous fun and if you get good at your trick, you really can surprise people (especially visitors). It’s part-performance, part-agility, part-confidence; all useful skills for every child.

May – June 2013

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www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Summer 15A South Court, Deal. Susanne and Philip, the owners, made us feel very comfortable and we just sat back and enjoyed the live music and great atmosphere.

I chose Sunday lunch Italian style – roast pork with fennel and garlic, roast potatoes with sea salt and garlic and roasted mixed vegetables which was delicious.

The children opted for pizzas and icecream. There is a children’s menu available until 7pm with half portions of some pizza and pasta dishes available. It was so good I went back with my husband on Friday evening! To book tel: 01304 449391 or visit www.winebarpizzeriadeal.co.uk.

Editor’s Holiday in Kent

By Karen Craven

I usually work for some of the school half term holidays but quite last minute I decided to take the children away for the week. We fancied a seaside break in the South (hoping for warmer weather) and settled on Kent, the Garden of England. Francesca, my eldest at 18, decided to stay at home to revise for her A levels so I took Bethany 16 and Daniel 5. I have never holidayed with children alone before and have always been accompanied by my husband, my Mum or a friend so felt quite grown up and liberated!

After a quick stop beforehand for provisions in Deal, just 2.5 miles away, we arrived on Saturday evening at Kingsdown Holiday Park booked through JDR-Leisure www.jdrleisure.co.uk.

The chalet we stayed in sleeps 5 and was quite spacious with 3 bedrooms, shower room, kitchen and lounge/dining area and there is also an outdoor area including table and chairs for al fresco dining. Everything you need here is provided including Free View TV and a selection of games to keep the children amused. For more information contact Jo Rammell on 07725 257126 or email jo.rammell@jdr-leisure.co.uk .

Kingsdown Park is situated in a lovely spacious wooded area with panoramic views over the sea and its own private pebble beach.

All chalets are well spaced out and facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, mini golf, tennis court, table tennis, children’s playground, games room and amusements and bar/ bistro on site with a good choice of menu and entertainment laid on some evenings. There is a great, relaxed family atmosphere here and all staff I met were friendly and welcoming.

Kingsdown itself is a small traditional Kent village within a very short walking distance containing 3 local pubs, a general store, a butchers and a hairdressers.

To receive a 10% discount and pay only £50 to secure the rental on the chalet after the Summer holidays, please contact Jo Rammell on 07725 257126 or email jo.rammell@jdr-leisure.co.uk and quote “Happy Families” when booking.

The weather was beautiful on Sunday. We went swimming, Daniel played in the playground and then we drove into Deal where we had a lovely Sunday lunch at The Wine Bar & Pizzeria, 12

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

On Tuesday we decided to visit Howletts The Aspinall Wild Animal Park just half an hour’s drive away. Set in 90 acres of beautiful grounds, Howletts has the largest collection of western lowland gorillas in the world and is home to over 50 species of the world’s most exotic and endangered animals. The weather wasn’t great but we did manage to see everything before the downpour. If you have time you could also visit Port Lympne The Aspinall Wild Animal Experience near Hythe where you can “jump on board a safari truck and encounter the UK’s original authentic African Experience, 100 acres where over 200 wild animals roam freely”. Both parks are UK based sites for endangered animal conservation. www.aspinallfoundation.org My husband joined us on Wednesday evening and we enjoyed a nice, reasonably priced pub meal at The Rising Sun close to the beach. On Thursday we took a day trip to Calais on the ferry paying just £22 return through www.myferrylink.com although I should imagine prices increase in the Summer holidays. Driving half an hour to Boulogne, we enjoyed a meander through the old town and a tasty meal of moules et frites before returning to Calais and stocking up on wine and cheese.

“The Key to England”, Dover Castle was somewhere I had always wanted to visit as it has played such an important part in our history. You do need the whole day as it is a very large site and tours to see the secret wartime tunnels and the underground hospital are timed. The view from the Castle over Dover is just breath taking. The entire interior of the King Henry’s II Great Tower has been recreated so you can imagine what it was like to live in medieval times. Practically on your doorstep at Kingsdown are both Walmer Castle and Deal Castle also but sadly we ran out of time.

We decided to purchase English Heritage membership for the year and will now be able to enjoy free entry to local attractions – Witley Court in Worcestershire and Goodrich Castle in Herefordshire and so many more around the UK. For information on all properties and membership details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk Kent certainly lives up to its name as the Garden of England and it was a very enjoyable holiday. If you are looking for a holiday in this country then I would thoroughly recommend Kent as there is so much to see and do..

July – August 2013

Summer Summer Workshops and Holiday Clubs (Please mention Families Hereford and Worcester magazine when booking)

ARTS

DANCE, DRAMA AND MUSIC Artrix, Bromsgrove Out of the Box Summer Stage School A full week of performance with Artrix’s professional youth director Mel Dykes .

Monday 29th July-Friday 2nd August and Monday 19th-Friday 23rd August 10.00 am-4.00 pm. Ages 6-9 & 10-17.

Club Creative Holiday Club including art, craft, drama, music, dance and fun!

Are you struggling for the perfect party idea?

Have a children’s jewellery-making party!

• Suitable for age 5 upwards • fun & exciting • bespoke • quality beads & materials used • perfect for birthday parties or children’s clubs • each creation is presented in a lovely organza bag to take home • fully insured & crb checked

beadiboppers@gmail.com / 07738 127 709

Monday 5th-Friday 9th and Monday 12th-Friday 16th August 10.00 am – 4.00 pm for ages 6-10.

01527 577330 www.artrix.co.uk

The Worcester Arts Workshop at 21 Sansome Street, Worcester is a vibrant city centre arts hub offering a variety of exciting activities for the summer holidays.

Aimed at children of all ages and families, they provide a safe, friendly and supportive environment where children can be creative, have fun and meet new friends.

‘Art crafty’ parties are a brilliant way of celebrating and combine an organised creative activity alongside fun and games. Also offering adult learning, exhibitions, theatre and performance, live music, film and Cafe Bliss.

01905 25053 www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk

COOKERY Red Hen, Worcester Kids Cookery clubs running in August for children aged 4-12 yrs in Worcester.

01905 422997 www.redhencookery.co.uk

May – June 2013

Malvern Theatres, Malvern Drama School A week exploring acting, vocal techniques, character exploration and create and perform your own work. Tuesday 20th – Friday 23rd August 10.00 am – 2.00 pm for ages 8-13. 01684 580943 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Music & Theatre Experience, Droitwich and Worcester Performing arts courses at RGS Worcester: Stars – A celebration of playwrights, composers, lyricists and choreographers. Monday 29th July-Friday 2nd August daily 9.00 am – 3.30 pm. Performance Friday 2nd August at 7.00 pm ages 8 to 18 To Infinity and Beyond – Space exploration through song, dance and drama. Monday 29th July – Friday 2nd August daily 9.00 am - 3.30 pm. Performance Friday 2nd August 3.00 pm ages 5 to 7 Performing arts courses at Norbury Theatre, Droitwich: Just So – A 5 day course for 7-18 year olds. Monday 5th to Friday 9th August 9.00 am till 3.30 pm daily. Performance Saturday 10th August 2.00 and 7.00 pm. Tel 07787 346633 www.mtexperience.co.uk

Looking for an experience never to be forgotten?

Enjoy your birthday party with us. Meet and walk our alpacas, try felting and make a gift to take home. Alpaca toy for birthday child. From 6 years of age.

Tel: 07980 587562 info@simplyalpaca.co.uk www.simplyalpaca.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

Summer Number 8, Pershore Youth Theatre Play in a Day – Shakespeare’s Spooky Bits! A creative drama workshop for children aged 8-18 years on Tuesday 30th July 10.00 am – 4.00 pm.

The Great Balloon Race Workshop – A creative workshop for children including painting, drawing, collage, modelling and decoupage to create a balloon and basket for ages 6-11 years on Wednesday 21st August 10.00 am – 3.00 pm. 01386 555488 www.number8.org.uk The Courtyard Theatre, Hereford Holiday Workshops: Jason and the Argonauts – Monday 29th July – Friday 2nd August, 10am – 3pm ages 7-12 Star Wars – Monday 12th – Friday 16th August, 10am – 3pm ages 7-12 James and the Giant Peach – Monday 19th – Friday 23rd August, 10am – 3pm ages 7-12 Knights and Princesses – Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th August, 10am – 1pm ages 4-7 01432 340555 www.courtyard.org.uk Vital Statistics, Evesham and Pershore Join Vital This Summer For Amazing Fun Activities!

We Inspire Children to have fun!

Summer Schools: Evesham: Thursday 25th July Friday 26th July, Monday 29th July Wednesday 31st July, Monday 5th Wednesday 7th August 10.00 am – 3.00 pm Extra Child Care is available from 9.00 – 10.00 am & 3.00-4.00 pm Pershore: Wednesday 31st July - Friday 2nd August, Wednesday 7th August - Friday 9th August 10.00 am – 3.00 pm Extra Child Care is available from 9.00 – 10.00 am & 3.00-4.00 pm Summer Classes: Evesham: Monday 29th July & Monday 5th August 4.00 – 8.00 pm Loads of classes inc dance, drama, street dance and tap, singing, freestyle and fun dance. From 3 years onwards Pershore: Tuesday 30th July & Tuesday 6th August 3.30-5.30 pm Fun Musical Theatre Class Friday 2nd August - Friday 9th August 3.30-5.30 pm Fun Street Class For more info contact admin@vstc.co.uk 077397 59624 www.vitalstatisticstheatre.co.uk

MULTI – ACTIVITY HOLIDAY CLUBS AND WORKSHOPS Blackwell Adventure, Bromsgrove School holiday get out club open to children 8-15 yr olds – a full day of adventure with a wide range of activities Monday 5th - Friday 23rd August Tel: 0121 445 1285 www.blackwelladventure.co.uk

Bromsgrove School, Bromsgrove Fun sports and craft-based activity day camps including Arts and Crafts, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cookery, Cricket, Dance, Drama, Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Mad Science, Martial Arts, Netball, Photography, Swimming, Tennis and Textiles for 8 – 15 year olds.

Monday 1st July – Friday 23rd August Tel : Mrs Liberty Chance on 01527 579679 or email activities@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

Check our website regularly as we are constantly updating it with lots of local news, things to do and information – so please visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register – the site is taylor-made for you.

To advertise in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine and online... Please call Karen on 01386 791422 for more information.

14

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

July – August 2013

Summer D C Leisure Centres A multitude of Junior Holiday Activities for ages 2-7 and 8-13 yrs at Bewdley, Stourport and Wyre Forest Glades Kidderminster Leisure Centres. www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk Halo Leisure Varied summer holiday activities at sports centres in Hereford, Bromyard, Ledbury, Ross and Leominster plus a tailored programme of activities for children 3-12 year olds. 0300 012 1222 www.haloleisure.co.uk Malvern Special Families, Malvern and Worcester Malvern and Worcester Summer Play Schemes: Holiday Clubs for children 5-19 yrs with special needs inc arts and crafts, sensory and messy play, soft play, music sessions, food activities, bikes/ trikes, sports, parachute games, bouncy castles, animal workshops, drumming workshops. Tuesday 30th July – Friday 23rd August Tel 01684 892526 www.malvernspecialfamilies.org.uk Sports Challenge, Droitwich, Evesham and Pershore Multi-sports clubs at Droitwich, Evesham and Pershore Leisure Centres.

01386 300726 www.sportschallenge.org.uk Super Camps, Worcester and Malvern Multi-Activity Camps for children aged 4-16 in the summer holidays at schools in Worcestershire.

St Mary’s, Worcester 22nd July - 23rd August and Malvern St James, Great Malvern 22nd July – 30th August Tel 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Upton Warren Outdoor Education Centre, Bromsgrove Courses include Multiactivities, Water and Land activity courses 6-15 yr olds. Sailing, windsurfing and paddle sports courses also available. www.worcestershire.gov.uk/outdoors Zig Zag coaching, Malvern and Worcester Multi-sports courses inc football and goalkeeping, gymnastics with dance, multi-sports for children aged 5-14 years.

Thursday 25th July – Friday 30th August Tel 07510 990969 www.zigzagcoaching.co.uk

SPORTS FOOTBALL Football First, Worcester Safe, fun football coaching for boys and girls aged 4-13 years by primary school teachers. 25th – 26th July, 29th July – 2nd August, 5th – 9th August at RGS The Grange. www.footballfirst2002.com

SWIMMING Chessgrove Swim, Hanbury Learn to swim holiday courses for children from 3 years onwards from Tuesday 30th July –Thursday 22nd August. 01527 821978 www.chessgroveswim.co.uk

TENNIS Pershore Tennis Club Fun holiday Tennis and Multi-Sports Camps indoors and outdoors for all ages and abilities.

Sessions for 5-11 yrs from Monday 29th July-Friday 30th August and 12-18 yrs every Friday of the holidays from 2nd-31st August 11.00 am – 6.00 pm 01386 561903 www.pershoretennis.co.uk Tennis Hereford Summer holiday camps at Hereford Cathedral School, Hereford Whitecross, Eardisley and Madley clubs for children 4-16 yrs. Monday 22nd July Wednesday 28th August 07971 182664 www.tennishereford.co.uk Worcester Tennis Summer holiday camps at Worcester and Hallow Tennis Clubs from Monday 22nd July - Friday 30th August for 3-16 yrs.

07831 718775 www.worcestertennis.co.uk .

If you would like to advertise your clubs/classes in Families Hereford and Worcester and Hereford & Worcester reach 44,000 parents then please get in touch either by email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk or tel 01386 791422.

May – June 2013

Indoor and Outdoor Tennis for Adults & Juniors Summer Tennis & Multi Sport Camps New courses and classes available for all ages and abilities

For more information please visit: www.pershoretennis.co.uk or phone Steve on 01386 561903 www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have been changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Family Friendly Festival Loads of different activities including face painting, pottery painting, mad science, drama, circus acts, puppet show.

Friday 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd August 10.00 am onwards Dotty the Dragon A fairytale about Dotty the baby fire dragon for children 3-7 with music, puppets and storytelling. Thursday 8th August 2.00 pm £9.00, £7.00 under 16s, £28.00 family George’s Marvellous Medicine George creates a marvellous medicine that has the most extraordinary effect on his Grandma, who grows and grows until she bursts through the ceiling.

Friday 16th August 7.00 pm and Saturday 17th August 2.30 and 7.00 pm £9.00, £6.00 under 16s, £22.00 family Magic Russ Magic Show A magic show with local magician and Dave the Wonder Dog. Friday 16th August 2.00 pm £8.00, £5.00 under 16s The Sun, the moon and half a chicken Based on a traditional Spanish fable with puppets. Friday 23rd August 2.30 pm £8.00, £6.00 under 16s, £20.00 family Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Top Talent Extravaganza Vital Statistic Theatre Company’s students showcase their skills & talents in an action-packed & thrilling entertainment including drama, street dance, tap & lots more. Saturday 13th July 7.00 pm £5.00 07739 759624 DeNovo Dance Summer Gala Sunday 14th July 6.30 pm £5.00 Tickets from 07825 155590 Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Dora the Explorer Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer LIVE! is designed to teach kids to explore, communicate, overcome obstacles, solve puzzles and discover a diverse and exciting world… all while having a lot of fun! Tuesday 23rd – Thursday 25th July £16.00, £14.00 children, £50.00 family Times differ every day so check website Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.freeserve.co.uk Magical Beat 2013 Kirsty Purvis School of Dance From 3 year olds to adults performing an exciting mix of ballet, tap, modern & jazz. Saturday 20th 2.30 and 7.30 pm and Sunday 21st July 2.30 pm £12.00, £10.00 16

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Beyond Broadway Encore Theatre Company An evening’s cabaret of musical theatre featuring hits from the musicals. Saturday 3rd August 7.30 pm £7.50 Just So Encore Theatre Company The musical is narrated by the Eldest Magician who follows the inquisitive Elephant Child on a quest to the Limpopo River to discover how the leopard got his spots, the rhino got his skin … Saturday 10th August 2.30 and 7.30 pm £7.50 Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk Comedy Club 4 Kids A familyfriendly show with stand-up comedy especially for 6 – 11 year olds.

Friday 16th August 2.30pm £7.50, £6.50 under 16s Dotty the Dragon A fairytale about Dotty the baby fire dragon for children 3-7 with music, puppets and storytelling. Thursday 22nd August 2.30 pm £7.50, £6.50 under 16s The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Musicians of Bremen What happens to old toys when nobody loves them anymore? Toy Story meets the Brothers Grimm in an enchanting new production. Saturday 13th July 2.30 pm £7.00, £6.50 Milkshake A live show starring milkshake favourites inc Little Princess and Scruff, Noddy and Tessie Bear, Roary and Big Chris, Fifi and Bumble and the Bananas in Pyjamas. Monday 29th July 1.00 and 3.30 pm £12.00, £10.00, £42.00 family

FARM PARKS All Things Wild Nature Centre, Station Road, Honeybourne, Nr Evesham, WR11 7QZ 01386 833083, www.allthingswild.co.uk An all-weather attraction with a wide range of animals, a soft play area, outside play area, indoor tractors, animals encounter room, cafe and much more.

Dick Whittington Farm Park, Little London, Longhope, Gloucs, GL17 0PH 01452 831000, www.dickwhittington.org Indoor and outdoor play areas, nature trails, tractor rides, giant sandpit, loads of animals, birthday party venue, restaurant and much more.

Newbridge Play Barn, Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG 01531 670780, www.newbridgeplaybarn.com Egg collecting, tractor rides, pony rides, animals, indoor and outdoor play areas, zipwire, trampolines, birthday party venue and much more.

July – August 2013

What’s On Shortwood Farm, Pencombe, Bromyard, HR7 4RP 01885 400205, www.shortwoodfarm.co.uk

Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG 01527 860000, www.webbsdirect.co.uk

Lots of animals, animal feeding, tractor rides, birthday party venue, tea room and much more.

Children’s story time Storyteller Nicky brings to life a host of fun tales for children in the children’s play corner.

9.30am for about 40 minutes for children 2 – 7 years. Every Tuesday in July and August (except Tuesday 20th August).

The circus is in town A human cast performing acrobatics, juggling, balancing acts and crazy clowns.

Tuesday 13th – Sunday 19th August

Top Barn Farm Park, Holt Heath, Worcester, WR6 6NH 01905 621954, www.topbarn.co.uk A wide range of animals, outside play area, tractor and trailer tour, animal petting, birthday party venue, egg collecting, sand pit, snack shack, farm shop and much more.

GARDEN CENTRES Evesham Country Park, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 41661, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Summer Holiday Activities Craft activity days. £3.00 per child per activity. Every Wednesday and Friday from 31st July until 30th August.

11am - 4pm.

Little Heath Garden Centre, Lickey End, Bromsgrove, B60 1HY 01527 878174, www.littleheathgardencentre.co.uk Birds of Prey, Farm Animals, Peppa Pig, Bouncy Castles and lots more!

Saturday 27th July – Sunday 1st September

May – June 2013

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Den Building Days Build a den.

Tuesday 30th July – Thursday 1st August Dragon Slayer Learn the skills you need to fight a dragon. Tuesday 6th – Thursday 8th August Gnome Week Discover the secret world of the Avoncroft Gnomes.

Tuesday 13th – Thursday 15th August Pirate Adventure Days Be a pirate for the day at our pirate training camp.

Tuesday 20th – Thursday 22nd August

Victorian Festival Experience how the Victorians really lived. This rich view of life will delight all the family. Sunday 25th – Monday 26th August Mud, Sticks and Bricks Learn how to make bricks and build a house from sticks and mud. Grubby good fun!

Tuesday 27th – 29th August Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.worcestercitymuseums.org.uk An enchanted Commandery: Summer Fun Come and enrol at the ‘Enchanted School’ and learn to be a fairy, a warrior or a sprite .Drop in craft activities, have-a-go-archery, combat ,costume and make up and theatre workshops all add to these entrancing Summer holiday activities. Monday 5th – Friday 30th August Worcester Festival at The Commandery Enjoy concerts, ghost walks and summer family activities at as part of Worcester Festival. Saturday 10th – Monday 26th August A Medieval Pageant Step back in time to when The Commandery was formerly known as St Wulstan’s Hospital and celebrate all things Medieval medicine, music, magic, mayhem and more! Fun for all the family. Monday 26th August

Lock, Stock and 30,000 Smoking Barrels – A Story of the Battle of Worcester Talks, theatre, drills, living history, displays, activities, puppet shows, music and the annual Drumhead Ceremony. Saturday 31st August – Monday 2nd September Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk National Archaeology and Roman Day A day of fun archaeology themed activities for all the family inc craft activities, meet the Romans and see Roman combat. Saturday 13th July 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £2.00, Children FREE Have a go archery A drop-in session to learn the basics of this ancient sport under the supervision of Midland Adventure. Tuesday 30th – Wednesday 31st July, Tuesday 6th – Wednesday 7th, Wednesday 14th, Wednesday 21st, Wednesday 28th August 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Small fee applies Dinosaur Day Celebrate the exciting exhibition, Dinosaurs Uncovered with a special Dinosaur Day. Events include: Meet a fossil expert, Dig for fossils, Dino face painting and more... Adults £2.00, Children £2.00, Family £6.00 Sunday 11th August 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

17 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On Scarecrow Making Bring some old clothes and drop in to the fun scarecrow making activity. Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd August 11.00 am – 3.00 pm £3.00 for materials Scarecrow Day Enter the competition to be judged by the Mayor of Redditch Scarecrows on display, children’s activities, face painting, pony rides, scarecrow dancers, music and more...

Sunday 25th August 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Event FREE Entry into museum £2.00 adults, £1.00 child

Hands on History – Holiday Activities Three different craft activities take place daily and visitors can also have a go at archery on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays.

Tuesday – Friday throughout August £1.00 per child Pirate School Learn how to be a pirate including reading treasure maps, making pirate hats, jobs aboard ship, singing sea-shanties and how to talk ‘pirate’. Bank Holiday Monday 26th August

Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

ATTRACTIONS

Exhibitions: Secret Egypt Unravelling truth from myth A fantastic exhibition with over 100 objects inc the mummy and coffin of Namenkhetamun plus loads of family friendly activities throughout the summer hols. Saturday 22nd June – Saturday 31st August Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ museum A Festival of Transport All types of historic transport wheels its way to Hartlebury. Includes a craft fair in the Great Hall. Sunday 7th July

18

Hereford & Worcester

Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Mike the Knight Meet and greet TV character Mike the Knight who will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day. Sunday 7th July 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Grufts Dog Show A fun day of canine capers inc dog agility displays, dog shows, competitions and games.

All dogs welcome on leads. Sunday 14th July 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Children’s Nature Trail Take part in the ‘Little Snail Nature Trail’ and collect your sweetie prize! Sunday 21st – Thursday 25th July 11.00 am – 4.30 pm

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Puppetree Presents Puppetree Puppets will be entertaining children with amazing shows each day plus balloon model making. Sunday 28th July – Thursday 1st August 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Tropical Inc See an amazing collection of animals, mini- beasts, snakes, spiders, meerkats, skunks and many other cuddly critters and creepy crawlies! Talks and displays all day.

Sunday 4th – Thursday 8th August 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Babe the Sheep Pig An open air theatre production. Sunday 11th August 3.00 pm Hooked on Books A new literary festival - listen to magical storytelling, meet children’s authors, take part in creative writing and illustration workshops, model-making with Carnival Arts, dance shows with the 2Faced Dance Company, and much more.

Sunday 11th – Thursday 15th August 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Flying Potter Join Jon the Flying Potter from Eastnor Pottery to make some fantastic fun creations. Monday 19th – Thursday 22nd August 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Great Outdoors with WildPlay Mud Pies, den building, nettle strings, grass trumpets, bug catching, scavenger hunts, snail races, playing in straw, and much more! Sunday 25th – Monday 26th August

Goodrich Castle, Castle Lane, Goodrich, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 6HY 01600 3331181, www.english-heritage.org.uk Summer Fun Trail Explore the Castle grounds and find the hidden clues.

Saturday 20th July – Sunday 1st September Time Travellers Go: Knights & Princesses Head back in time for some medieval fun for budding knights and princesses. Wednesday 31st July and Thursday 1st August Robin Hood Recruits! Join Robin Hood for tall tales and archery demonstrations. Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th August Siege Challenge for Kids! Goodrich Castle is under Siege! It is your job to defend it. Find out how with hands-on games and activities. Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th August Explorers! Discover what life was like during times of war and peace with interactive games and activities.

Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd August

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listings in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

July – August 2013

What’s On Hampton Court Castle and Gardens, Hope-under-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676, www.hamptoncourt.org.uk

Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcester, WR6 6JT 01905 726311, www.english-heritage.org.uk

Eagle and Vulture Flying Spectacular An informative and entertaining day with Trevor Hill’s Falconry display. Sunday 21st July Aztec Adventure Day An action packed day with a selection of activities inc Kayaking, Canoeing, Archery, Circus Skills and so much more! Friday 26th July and every Friday in August Exotic Bird and Animal Encounters with Trevor Hill Enter the amazing world of Exotic Animals, Reptiles, Insects and Birds. Wednesday 31st July and Every Wednesday and Thursday in August Chapter House Theatre The Wind in the Willows A magical family show in beautiful traditional costume performed in the open air. Friday 16th August 6.30 pm Tournament of Champions 6 horse stampede jousting show & stunt riding exhibition plus Birds of Prey Flying Spectacular. Sunday 25th – Monday 26th August

Summer Fun Trail Explore the grounds and find the hidden clues.

Thursday 25th July – Sunday 1st September 1.00 am – 6.00 pm Time Travellers Go: Wildlife Rangers Enjoy hands-on activities including nature crafts and making your own leaf sculptures. Monday 12th – Friday 16th August 11.00 am – 5.00 pm

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster Station, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX 01299 403816, www.svr.co.uk Peep behind the scenes An ideal opportunity to see behind the scenes ie how a signal box works, witness restoration work in action and get on board a diesel train cab in those areas that would normally be closed to the public. Saturday 20th July £5.00 adults, 3.00 concs Teddy and Pyjama Week Children can dress in their pyjamas, bring their favourite teddy, get teddy repaired at the Teddy Hospital, enter the Best Dressed Teddy competition, hear lots of teddy train stories and enjoy a teddy bears’ picnic. Tuesday 6th – Thursday 8th August Arts and Crafts Week A variety of craft workshops, the chance to make a railway clock, a craft competition and the opportunity to meet some very special SVR friends – the bees. Tuesday 13th - Thursday 15th August Pirate Time Budding pirates can dig for hidden treasure, enter the Best Dressed Pirate competition, go on a pirate trail, make a pirate hat and meet the owls during this adventurous week of seafaring fun. Tuesday 20th – Thursday 22nd August Dig and Discover A dig for real Roman artefacts, archaeology trail, shield-making workshop, coin rubbing, digging in the allotments and competition. Tuesday 27th – Thursday 29th August

May – June 2013

EVENTS National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 HEREFORD AND LEOMINSTER KITE FESTIVAL Kite Festival showcasing some of the best sport and single line kites- bring your own kite to join in.

Saturday 20th – Sunday 21st July 10.00 am – 4.00 pm DEN BUILDING Put your bushcraft skills to the test with den building in the woods. Saturday 27th July 11.00 am – 3.00 pm BERRINGTON SUMMER GAMES Bring along the whole family and enjoy unusual games and competitions on the lawns. Thursday 1st August 11.00 am – 3.00 pm DRAGONS, DAMSELS AND LAKE DIPPING Join in the hunt for all those ‘Ugly Bugs’ in the parkland and lake.

Mondays 5th, 12th and 19th August 2.00 – 4.00 pm £3.00 child MERMAIDS AND PIRATES Come along dressed as a Mermaid or Pirate and get FREE entry. Pirate stories and songs and lots of activities. Thursday 8th August 2.00 – 4.00 pm TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC Bring ted along for a picnic in the gardens.

Afterwards come and try some teddy activities and games. Thursday 15th August 2.00 – 4.00 pm HALL BOYS AND HOUSEMAIDS Find out what life was like for the young servants. Try your hand at some of their jobs and see if you could have been a servant at the Hall. Thursday 22nd August 2.00 – 4.00 pm Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 482077 MUSEUM ON THE MOVE Explore the history of numbers and how people first started to count. Tuesday 23rd July 11.00 am – 4.00 pm BUTTERFLY HUNT Hunt for butterflies and moths in the wildflower meadow on the nature trail. Identify species using your own spotter sheet and make your own butterfly clip to take home..

Tuesdays 6th and 20th August 2.00 – 4.00 pm £3.00 per trail www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

19 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On JESTER SCHOOL Try your hand at being a jester, watch out for tricks, learn a few jester games and make your own jester’s hat. Tuesday 13th and Tuesday 27th August 11.30 am – 4.00 pm ELIZABETHAN TIMES Step back in time with Elizabethan re-enactors for a day of dancing, lively music and colourful costume. Families can dressup, learn a dance, make pomanders and write with a quill and ink. Sunday 18th August 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Clent Hills, Nimmings Wood car park, between Hagley and Stourbridge, B62 0NL Tel: 01562 712822 GET OUTDOORS TRAILS Pick up a trail at Nimmings Wood car park and start your own outdoor adventure.

All Wednesdays from 31st July to Wednesday 28th August 10.00 am – 3.00 pm £1.00 child Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 HIDE & SEEK Play hide and seek in and around the gardens to find all the clues. Get to the end to collect your prize. Under 5’s can look for the best places to hide. 44 dates so check website for details 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail.

CUB RANGERS Join the young rangers club for boys and girls aged from 6 to 13 for a day of cub scout themed activities to get little ones re-connected with the outdoors...

All Wednesdays in August from 7th – 28th 10.30 am - 12.30 pm and 1.30 – 3.30 pm Child £3.00 MEDIEVAL WEEKEND With daily drills for all ages, skirmishes, costumes and weapons to see and a living camp depicting the sights, sound and smells of a medieval camp.

Saturday 10th – Sunday 11th August 11.00 am – 5.00 pm PRINCES AND PRINCESSES Let the little ones get dressed up for a weekend of family activities , royal trails and regal fun. Hunt for the missing dragons and children dressed as a prince or princess, get in free. Saturday 17th – Sunday 18th August 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 Various activities throughout the summer holidays.

Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 Various activities throughout the summer holidays.

MH Garden & Tree Services

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Enquiries: 07791472201 Email: mhgardenandtreeservices@gmail.com Web: www.mhgardenandtreeservices.co.uk

Snowshill Manor, Snowshill, Near Broadway, Worcs, WR12 7JU Tel: 01386 842814 NINE CIRCLES KOBUDO Enjoy a stunning display of martial arts by Nine Circles Kobudo. Learn about the skills, traditions and myths which surround this beautiful form of self defence.

Saturday 20th July 12.00 - 4.00 pm The Greyfriars, Friar Street, Worcester, WR1 2LZ Tel: 01905 23571 Various activities throughout the summer holidays.

The Weir Garden, Swainshill, Hereford HR4 7QF Tel: 01981 590509 FOSSILS AND BONES Keep the little ones entertained with summer trails in and around the gardens. Daily from Saturday 20th July – Sunday 1st September 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per item

SPECIAL EVENTS, DAYS OUT AND FESTIVALS In the Night Garden Live – Back In Birmingham For Two Weeks Only! Don’t miss your chance to see In The Night Garden Live at Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham from 25th July for two weeks only. See Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka brought to life with beautiful costumes, magical puppets, enchanting music and breathtaking projections.

In the Night Garden Live takes place in its own family-friendly Showdome. With just 13 rows of seats, you’ll be close to the action and everyone gets a great view! You really must be quick to get tickets. Seats are limited, and premium tickets have already sold out.

Watch the trailer and book online at NightGardenLive.com.

Worcester Festival Fun for everyone including drama, exhibitions, film, street theatre, workshops fireworks, music festival and much more. www.worcesterfestival.co.uk or call 01905 611427. Saturday 10th – Monday 26th August

Pershore Plum Festival Lots of attractions with stalls, Classic cars, Farmers Market, boat trips, arts and crafts, street and children entertainment. www.pershoreplumfestival.org.uk Saturday 24th – Monday 26th August Upton International Music Festival Fun family music festival with loads of well known bands plus fun fair, river boat trips, archery, face painting. fireworks finale www.uptonfestival.co.uk Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th August Welland Steam and Country Rally A very popular event promising nostalgia, sights, sounds, colour and movement for every member of the family as you take a trip down memory lane. www.wellandsteamrally.co.uk Friday 26th – Sunday 28th July Warndon Villages Summer Fete, Lyppard Grange Community Centre, Worcester, WR4 ODZ. A seaside themed summer fete inc Punch and Judy, sumo suit wrestling, hole in one golf, pony rides, circus skills workshop, stilt walkers, fairground rides, ice cream, candyfloss, rock and more! Sunday 14th July – 12 pm to 4 pm Craft and Gift Fayre, Kimbolton Village Hall. A4112, HR6 0EJ. Lots of stalls selling crafts, gifts, food, refreshments available. Stalls indoors and out so come along rain or shine Saturday 13th July – 12-4 pm Free Seaside Summer Fete, Red Hill C of E Primary School, Midhurst Close, Worcester WR5 2HX. Tel: 01905 352524, www.redhillprimary.org Bouncy castles, surfboard ride, sandpits, pony rides, pigeon racing, magic shows, face-painting, raffle prizes, outdoor & indoor games & stalls, cakes, ice-creams, BBQ food and refreshments.

Sunday 14 July 2 pm - 5 pm Free Animals R Magic in aid of The Cinnamon Trust, Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, B60 4BU A special day focusing on animals and animal charities in particular (www.cinnamon.org.uk) with lots of fun and activities inc dog agility, novelty dog show, walk an alpaca, pony rides, face painting, ferret roulette.

Sunday 21st July 11.30 am – 4.30 pm £1.00 adult, 50p child www.jinneyring.co.uk Harlequins Orienteering event A free family orienteering taster event at Sanders Park, Bromsgrove. All welcome. Saturday 13th July 10.00 am – 1.00 pm www.harlequins.org.uk

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the event listed in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine – the really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years 20

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

July – August 2013