Families Hereford and Worcs May/June 2015 issue 33

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

Issue No 33 May/June 2015

www.lindascannell.com www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Editor’s Letter Dear readers This is the very last Editor’s Letter I will write as I am handing the reins over to Diane Clifford, a local mum with 3 children, who will be the new Editor and Owner of Families Hereford and Worcester.

I am sure that Diane will continue to bring you an excellent magazine full of advice, information and news for local parents.

I would just like to say a very big thank you to all my readers and customers who have supported me over the last 5 years. It has been a pleasure. Bye bye.

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

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue 02

Editor’s Letter

02

News & Views

04

Ed’s Reading Room

Next issue: Jul/Aug, Editorial and booking deadline: Saturday 6th June

05 Education 08

Children’s Parties

14

What’s On

Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

All content Copyright 2015 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, pre-schools, 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 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

Hello from the new editor My name is Diane Clifford and I am delighted to be taking over as the new Editor of Families Hereford & Worcester.

As a working Mum with three wonderful children, I know how important it is to keep your family healthy and active and for you to ensure the best possible education for your children. I shall be looking to provide you with important information, interesting articles and great ideas to do just that!

Herefordshire and Worcestershire is my home; I love this area and you can expect to see many stories featuring our beautiful and historic part of the world. My aim is to continue to bring you interesting articles featuring family life, local news and a trusted What’s On guide.

My interests include arts and crafts, walking, home cooking and grow your own so you can also expect to see articles about local crafts, local walks and family days out, home cooking and gardening.

I am taking over from Karen Craven who is stepping down from the Editor’s chair. I would like to thank her for growing this magazine and making it such a lively read. I am sure you will join me in wishing Karen all the very best for the future.

I would love to hear from you. So if you have any local news, if you are running an event or if you have an idea for a story then let me know.

And remember: a picture tells a thousand words, and I would be delighted to publish high quality images illustrating family life and local activities.

Send your news and photos to editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk If you would like to advertise your business or services in the July/August issue and reach 22,000 households with young children then call me on 01684 586620 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Copy deadline is 6th June.

In the next issue we shall be focusing on summer holiday activities, tasty pic-nic ideas and “Back To School”.

Be sure to read it!

Diane Clifford Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester Phone: 01684 586620 Email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Front Cover: www.lindascannell.com

Would you like to fit work around your children, rather than fit children around work?

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• Are you tired of having to book holiday from work, and await it being approved, to enjoy precious moments with your child at school events, and during the school holidays?

• Do you worry about taking time off work to look after your child when school is closed or they are ill?

If you’re looking for a business that actually fits around your children and current job commitments, with incomes from £200 - £2000+ a month then contact Lucie for further information today on 0781 7491497 or email: ljkkey@btinternet.com.

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May – June 2015

News & Views Fantastic Half Term childcare at Super Camps Let Super Camps take care of the children during May Half Term. The May activity camps give your children a great time during the holiday, leaving you free to work stress-free or go about your daily routine uninterrupted.

The camps deliver a great experience for children, allowing them to have fun and be active in a safe and supportive atmosphere. As Ofsted noted during the summer, Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment”. www.supercamps.co.uk

Macmillan Cancer Support is delighted to announce that fundraising event Dress Up and Dance will be returning to schools, nurseries and uniform groups across the UK this summer on Friday 19th June 2015.

The fundraising event encourages schools and uniform groups to sign up and ask their students to get dressed up and have a dance, in exchange for making a suggested donation of £2 to Macmillan. This year’s special theme is ‘Legends’ and those taking part are encouraged to go to school channelling their favourite inner champions – be it a pop icon, a super hero, a sports personality or a film star!

Back for its third year this summer, the fundraiser was a huge success in 2014.

Over 3,000 schools registered to take part and helped raise £200,000 for Macmillan to help children and families whose lives have been affected by cancer.

For further information, please visit www.macmillan.org.uk/dressup.

May – June 2015

100 Family Adventures

by the Meek Family, Tim, Kerry, Amy (aged 10) and Ella (aged 8).

As Tim says in the introduction to the book: “The idea for 100 Family Adventures grew from wanting to spend more quality family time outdoors – walking, cycling, kayaking... simply doing things together as a family.

We didn’t want our children to grow up molly-coddled and wrapped up in cotton wool, preferring to spend their time indoors in front of a TV or computer screen rather than enjoying the great outdoors.”

The 100 adventures in this book are designed to encourage other families to get out and do things together, to help adults and children alike to push their own comfort zones – even if it is just a little. Activities are grouped into themes: Woodland, Water, Close to Home, Hills and Mountains, Exploring, By the Sea, Extreme Weather. As the Meeks say: “Adventure is out there – you just have to go and find it!” www.franceslincoln.com

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my early Summer book selection for you to enjoy.

The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Rascal: Lost in the Caves

by Chris Cooper (Egmont £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Rascal is having a great holiday with Joel and his family. He only wants to have fun but sometimes he gets into trouble and Joel has to smooth things out. They discover a cave which looks exciting but Rascal feels wary of going inside. However it is so tempting, the next morning they go back to explore.

Soon they find themselves in great danger.

Will they be able to find their way out of this frightening place?

‘This is the start of Rascal’s adventures with Joel. It is a real page-turner for both boys and girls. For more stories about Rascal look out for the other books in this series.’

Foxy Tales: The Great Jail Break by Caryl Hart and Alex T Smith

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Beasts of Olympus: Beast Keeper by Lucy Coats (Piccadilly £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Demon adores looking after animals. When his father, the Greek god Pan, takes him to Olympus to be a stable boy for the gods he feels as if life has changed – and not for the better. The stables are very smelly, the creatures are extremely difficult and the food is absolutely disgusting – and Demon is really missing his home. Will he be able to sort out the chaos in the stables and make his father proud? And will the feast of the gods live up to its name?

‘This is a very funny story set in Ancient Greece. It introduces several well-known mythical creatures and is enhanced by imaginative illustrations.’

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman

(Hodder £4.99)

(Simon & Schuster £7.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Foxy DuBois and Alphonso the Alligator are back! The unlikely duo come across sacks full of money which they think is fantastic but will surely only spell trouble. They soon find themselves in front of a judge who sentences them to six months in jail. There they meet Eric-the-Evil and they try to come up with ingenious ways to escape but they soon realise they will need more than a Get Out of Jail Free card.

ED SAYS: ‘Twig loves living in Sidwell, Massachusetts, but she is quiet and shy and has never really had a friend. When a new family arrives in the house next to their orchard she has a feeling that this summer her whole life could change. Could the spell of Twig’s family secret that makes them hide away be broken? And could Twig find herself surrounded by the family and friends she so much craves?

‘Laugh out loud as you follow the latest adventure in the super Foxy Tales series. This exciting story about two fantastic characters is enhanced by brilliant illustrations.’

‘This is a beautifully written book by a highly accomplished author. You may find yourself bewitched by this magical and compelling story.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning 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.

Please contact Diane on 01684 586620 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

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May – June 2015

Education

May – June 2015

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Education Schools’ Open Days ABBERLEY HALL SCHOOL

BREDON SCHOOL

Co-ed Boarding, Day & Nursery 2-13 years

Saturday 30th May 10.30 am Open Activities Morning

01299 896101 or email victoria.beswick@abberleyhall.co.uk www.abberleyhall.co.uk

Tuesday 16th June 10.00 am - 12.00 midday

01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org

Friday 8th May 9.30 am – 12.00 midday

01562 850204 or email info@heathfieldschool.co.uk www.heathfieldschool.co.uk

Thursday 4th June 9.30 am – 11.30 am Junior School and Nursery Open Morning Saturday 27th June 10.00 am – 12.00 midday Junior School and Nursery Showcase

01432 363506 or email admissions@herefordcs.com www.herefordcs.com

Friday 5th June 9.00 am to 10.00 am

01562 822929 or email office@holytrinity.co.uk www.htsfreeschool.co.uk

Co-ed 2-11

Saturday 13th June 9.30 am – 12.30 pm Open Activities Morning

01905 451292 or email hawford@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

Girls 4-11, 11-16, 16-18

Saturday 6th June 10.00 am – 1.30 pm Open Morning

01684 584624 or email admissions@malvernstjames.co.uk www.malvernstjames.co.uk

Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 9.30 am - 12.30 pm

01299 841230 or email: office@moffats.co.uk www.moffats.co.uk

Co-ed 4-18

HEATHFIELD SCHOOL AND DAY NURSERY HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

HOLY TRINITY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL KING’S HAWFORD MALVERN ST JAMES MOFFATS

Co-ed 3 months – 16 years Co-ed 3-11, 11-16, 16-18 years Co-ed 3 months – 18 years

Co-ed 4-13

RGS SPRINGFIELD

Co-ed 21/2-11

Saturday 16th May 9.30 am - 12.30 pm

01905 24999 or email: springfield@rgsw.org.uk

RGS THE GRANGE

Co-ed 21/2-11

Saturday 9th May 9.30 am - 12.30 pm

01905 451205 or email: vjk@rgsw.org.uk www.rgsw.org.uk

THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLEGE PREP

Co-ed 3-13

Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 9.30 am – 4.30 pm Whole school Open Day

01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

THE RIVER SCHOOL AND THE BROOK NURSERY

Co-ed 3-16

Wednesday 6th May 10.00 am -1.00 pm

01905 457047 or email info@riverschool.co.uk www.riverschool.co.uk

Saturday 16th May Open Morning

01562 777234 or email: info@winterfoldhouse.co.uk www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

WINTERFOLD HOUSE

Co-ed 6 wks 3yrs, 3-7, 7-13

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@FAMILIESHEREFORDANDWORCS.CO.UK

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May – June 2015

Education Grammar Games from Jolly Learning: grammar practice made easy at home!

Grammar Games is now available! Matching the National Curriculum, these games are an ideal specialist resource for use in the home and designed to support KS1 teaching taking place in school (or for children aged 5+ years).

Children begin at sea, with Inky Mouse in a small rowing boat. Their task? To reach, master and complete 15 interactive grammar games across the following five islands:

Calling all Young Writers!

Do you know a young author? The National Young Writers’ Awards judges are looking for the best short story (up to 500 words) based around this year’s theme of ‘Strange Events and Peculiar Happenings’. The winner of the competition will receive £500 of books for their school and a trip to Disneyland Paris!

The annual awards, run by tuition company Explore Learning, are now in their 7th year. This year’s judge is renowned author of the Book of Norm series of books, Jonathan Meres.

To enter visit www.explorelearning. co.uk/youngwriters

May – June 2015

• The Alphabet and Capital Letters – alphabet order, letter formation and letter matching • Tricky Words – reinforce the 72 tricky words taught in Jolly Phonics by set or all together using a handy word search • Punctuation – full stops, commas, speech marks, exclamation marks and apostrophes • Building Words – initial/final consonant blends, compound words, digraphs, vowels, alternative spellings of vowels and spelling patterns • Parts of speech – verbs, common nouns, adjectives and parsing Grammar Games is a highly interactive and colourfully animated experience that allows children to explore these concepts with clear and age-appropriate guidance.

By practising the skills taught in school at home children will become more confident readers and writers.

Grammar Games is the newest release in a series of teaching resources for teaching grammar, spelling and punctuation from Jolly Learning. www.jollylearning.co.uk

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© Petro Feketa – Fotolia.com

Children’s parties

Party problems, solved

By Sarah Butters

Planning a party? Need some advice? Sarah Butters takes a look at the very latest party problems posed by parents and gives you some top tips on avoiding serving a can of worms at your child’s next celebration.

CAN YOU… say no to siblings?

Most of us wouldn’t dream of turning up to a party uninvited.

Yet some parents feel it acceptable to bring along a string of siblings and presume they too are welcome.

“They won’t eat. In fact you won’t even know they’re here,” cry the parents as they sprint out of the door, while said siblings begin pilfering from the pre prepared party bags. The point is if you’ve budgeted for 20 and catered for 20, you’re ready for 20 children – not 25. Very often entertainers insist on a maximum number and siblings can tip you over the limit, and in turn, tip you over the edge. Prevent the problem at the point of invite and make the sibling rule clear. A simple ‘Sorry, no room for siblings!’ means there’s no question. I find the addition of an exclamation mark makes you look fun and not mean.

CAN YOU… exclude individual children?

This is a tough one because as a general rule, you should stick to one of 3 party invite rules.

1. Invite the whole class – this is perfect for Reception age children.

2. Invite all the girls or all the boys – this becomes popular as children head into KS2 and the opposite sex become toxic.

3. Invite a few close friends – this works when you’re keeping the budget down or as you head towards the end of primary school.

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However there are exceptions. If your child is the victim of a classroom bully, you’ve grounds to exclude that individual. This is YOUR child’s special day and they’re entitled to enjoy it without fear. Excluding problematic children is more difficult. Instead, it’s best to ask the parents of said child to stick around to offer a helping hand.

CAN YOU… fine a parent for a ‘no show’?

There is nothing more irritating than the parent who confirms their child will be joining the party, only for them to leave an empty chair at the birthday table. The tale of the mum who billed a parent after they failed to show up to her son’s skiing party certainly made party no shows THE talk of the playground. Was she right to have sent the invoice? The reality is there will always be ill mannered individuals who chose to accept an invite, and go on to make other plans without letting you know. In a world of text messages and emails, a no warning no show is simply unacceptable. But it’s also inevitable at some point in your party throwing life. Invoicing a parent may make the headlines and also make you feel better for a while, but it’s likely to alienate your child and make YOU the subject of ridicule at the school gates. Our advice is to make a point of asking what happened to that no show when you next bump into the parent. In my experience you maximize the middle class embarrassment the more parents there are to witness it.

May – June 2015

Children’s parties

How to… SURVIVE A SLEEPOVER PARTY

By Sarah Butters Love them or hate them, you will be asked at some point to host a sleepover. Sarah Butters looks at how best to survive them and how to avoid repeating the experience in the future.

* LATE DROP, EARLY COLLECT The thought of a sleepover is bearable if you know there is an end to it all. Make it clear at the point of invite when your hospitality begins and ends. I’ve found a late afternoon drop – co-inciding with teatime – is best with a pick up between 9 and 10am. This means your exhausted guests, now suffering from an additive hangover, can have their post sleepover meltdown in the comfort of their own home. You are left with a full day to scrape melted chocolate and squashed Haribo from your beige carpet.

* HAVE A PLAN Don’t imagine that five 8 year olds will be able to occupy themselves without incident. They won’t. Well they will, but rest assured it will end in a lot of tired tears. Follow teatime with a fun activity – karaoke, Wii fun or a board game – before a DVD to take you through until bedtime. I have heard reports of parents putting their children through 100 bounces on the garden trampoline prior to heading upstairs to maximize exhaustion but you may feel that’s a step too far.

* PREPARE FOR LATE NIGHT LEAVERS There’s a pretty high chance that one of your guests will want to leave. The reality of a night spent away from home can be a little too much for some children. Be warned, homesickness is catching and once one begins to wobble, you could find your other guests follow. Make sure you have the parents contact details for all your guests if you do need to make a late night collection call.

* KEEP IT SIMPLE Think camping indoors and you’ve got the perfect sleepover.

One of my daughter’s favourite nights away from home saw 7 children sleeping top to toe, in sleeping bags on the bedroom floor of their friend. Not a king size Aerobed in sight. We’ve invested in our new favourite wearable sleeping bag, the SLPY for sleepover invites. Get yours at www.slpy.com.

What do YOU think?

“Most children are never any trouble, as long as you accept it will be a late night. Only on a couple of occasions have Mums had to come and collect. Once when my middle son was just 6 it was clear his friend would not settle. I rang his Mum and she popped round, only for my son to come marching out with his coat over his pyjamas, a backpack on, saying ‘Is it OK if I come back with you – it is meant to be a sleepover after all!’” – Vicki, Mum of 3 from Yeadon

“They just happened at our house; a kind of mini rite of passage.

I think they’re a good thing. For my daughter, they’ve been great for bonding with friends, although she did go through a phase of not wanting them because she got homesick.” – Bill, Dad from Adel May – June 2015

* ADMIT DEFEAT You aren’t going to be able to stay up late enough to check your guests are all asleep. Their very purpose is to out ‘stay up’ the adults in the house so in many ways, reminding them you are still awake only makes for a later bedtime. Lay out the ground rules when you say your final (ish) goodnight and leave them to it. Some will fall asleep, some will chat and only in the very worst case scenario will they raid your sweet cupboards in the early hours to replenish their sleep starved bodies. Removal of electrical devices is a good move – especially in tweenage girls – as the cyber world can be an inviting but frightening place in the small hours of the morning.

*KEEP YOUR DIARY CLEAR Plan nothing for the following day. You will have slept like a meerkat balancing on a branch. Your child will have crashed late and woken with the lark. In short, your family is fit for nothing and planning even the most straight forward activity is doomed to failure. Then, as night falls, raise a glass to the fact you survived your first sleepover. Like childbirth, you’ll need some time to forget the pain before you do it all again.

Ask the Expert……

Sleepover? They should be called Stay Awake-overs according to Families Leeds sleep expert Sarah Barnes from Gentle Sleep Solutions. Here’s her advice for making your night a success.

1. Only invite a small group for a child’s first sleep over.

2. Discuss with parents of invited children any allergies, medication, comfort objects or other needs.

3. Make sure you have contact numbers for all parents in case of late night homesickness.

4. Make sure you have boundaries in place to avoid chaos.

Make the children aware of their bedtime, the no-go areas in the house or garden following that bedtime and the rules regarding the use of gadgets.

5. Let the sleep over guests know where you are sleeping and let them know they can wake you in an emergency.

6. Arrange a definite pick up time the following day. Children, especially younger ones, are usually ready to go home and sleep! www.gentlesleepsolutions.co.uk

“I hate them. My girls love them, so we have them. I don’t like the bickering and falling out while they are playing and I don’t like the fact that I have to nag them to shut up and go to sleep.

I prefer to have friends individually as the noise level is lower and there is more chance of actual sleep. Big groups have me on the verge of packing a suitcase!” – Rachel, Mum of 3 from Leeds “They have nothing to do with sleep! It sounds like a lovely concept but the reality is that there is always one kid who gets home sick – or just sick – and no one sleeps. Your house gets trashed and you end up with a stroppy child the next day. In short my sleepovers have turned into ‘tea and pyjamas evenings’ ending at 9pm! Does that make me a bad Mummy or a clever Mummy?” – Sally, Mum of 2 from Menston www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Hereford & Worcester

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Children’s parties 3 parties kids love but you hate (and how to make them stress free)

By Sarah Butters

SLEEPOVERS

Let’s face it. They shouldn’t be called sleepovers. They should be called stay awake overs because you will sleep about as well as a meerkat balanced on a branch and the kids won’t sleep at all.

However if you follow a few basic rules, you may survive. Keep the numbers low. As far as sleepovers go, more is defiantly not merrier but it is noisier. Keep them busy – I’ve heard tales of parents setting up night time obstacle courses to exhaust their pint sized house guests. Remove electrical devices at a reasonable hour and make sure you have a note of all parental contacts. As sure as night follows day someone will get homesick at about midnight and infect everyone. For those who do survive the overnight stay, arrange for an early collection. It gives you the day to remove Haribo from your beige carpet, and you’ll only have your own sleep deprived, sugar shocked child to deal with.

SWIMMING

Most mums are reluctant to strip off to a swimsuit when the sun is shining and the sangria’s flowing. So the thought of doing it in front of your school gate ‘chums’ while at the local pool is unthinkable. However a swimming party is always a popular choice. Avoid hosting a swimming party for younger children – wait until your child and their friends are fairly competent swimmers, thus removing the need for parental submersion.

Seek out a pool that offers an inflatable soft play area – you’ll find these at many council run pools – and you’re guaranteed a splashing time. Many such pools have a low rate room for hire so you can follow the wet fun with a homemade party tea to keep costs down.

Fun football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years Classes held in Bromsgrove, Redditch & Kidderminster Sign up online at

www.littlekickers.co.uk or call 0121 364 7165 or alternatively email eread@littlekickers.co.uk

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ART

Don’t try this at home. No seriously. This is one to hire a hall for and call in the experts. Arty parties are fab fun but frankly terrifying if you have a home that you’re proud of. The idea of a dozen Reception children attempting to find the toilet, while their hands are coated in a mixture of purple paint and glitter is enough to make you reach for a lunchtime Sauvignon Blanc. We have some super local providers who can save you the stress of a pre-school redecoration of your home. Try your local pottery café, or a nearby art class and put off the wine till tea time!

May – June 2015

HEREFORD AND WORCESTER CHILDREN’S PARTY ENTERTAINERS We have made every effort to ensure our listings are accurate and up-todate. However, we cannot be held responsible for any unintentional errors.

Animals Animalmania – specialise in animal parties, teddy bear picnics, princess and pamper parties. John or Carla on 01905 757136 www.animal-mania.org

Party Ponies and Grafton Carriage Company provides pony rides for children’s parties, fetes and other fund raising events.

Suitable for children 2yrs + we can offer just riding and/or grooming etc..

Prices from £120 for 1hr party. Individual 1/2hr rides also available as pre-riding school preparation.

Call Tracey 01527 574199 www.graftoncarriagecompany.co.uk Simply Alpaca Birthday Parties – Get up close to the alpacas to meet and walk them around the “Alpaca Challenge Obstacle Course” or take them for a stroll around the fields. Victoria on 07980 587562 www.simplyalpaca.co.uk Trevor Hill birds and animals – Parties, school talks, shows/fetes with birds of prey, reptiles, small mammals. Trevor on 01885 410768 www.thbirdsandanimals.webs.com

Arts and Crafts Mosaic Parties – a mosaic party to decorate either a coaster, picture frame, trinket box or an edible mosaic option. Janet on 01299 828374 www.mosaicparties.co.uk

Character Mascot Hire TLR Mascots – Peppa Pig, Fireman Sam and Iggle Piggle lookalikes to appear at your child’s party.

Tessa on 07709 452422 www.tlrmascots.vpweb.co uk

Cookery Crafty Cooks – pre-school classes, holiday workshops and parties. Rachel on 07989 348547 www.craftycooks.co.uk/classes/worcester Our Lizzy – vegetarian cookery school and cookery parties with choice of menu inc party bags, cake, tuition, invitations. Lizzy on 01684 892688 www.ourlizzy.com Pizza Express – Kids’ pizza making party with invitations, squash, your own crafted Classic pizza with choice, party games, balloon and certificate www.pizzaexpress.com/parties/kidspizzamaking/ Red Hen Cookery Parties – cookery courses and parties for children and adults with choice of baking or two course meal parties inc party bags and invitations.

Naz on 01905 422997 www.redhencookery.co.uk

Dance and Drama Beat Breakerz School of Dance Worcester and Droitwich – is a street dance school offering professional dance training for all ages and abilities. They also offer birthday parties, school workshops and street troupes.

Amie on 01905 29647 or 07715 638711 www.beatbreakerzschoolofdance.co.uk May – June 2015

JDR Karting – Choice of Junior and Main Go-kart track party circuits for ages from 4 years upwards and laser tag parties. Party packages available.

Tel 01452 311211 www.jdrkarting.co.uk

Model and Photography Parties Wannabe Workshops – modelling, catwalk, teenager and prom parties and workshops for all ages perfect for the age of 6+. Jeanne on 0800 170 1960 www.wannabeworkshops.com

Themed Parties

Life in the Rainforest – rainforest parties with spiders, insects, snakes, frogs plus school talks. Paul on 01386 49747 www.lifeintherainforest.co.uk

Children’s parties

Music and Movement Little Giggles – children’s entertainer specialising in popular music and movement parties where children are encouraged to get involved.

Nikki on 07568 061192 www.little-giggles.co.uk Stagecoach Redditch and Evesham – themed parties for children aged 4-18 and murder mystery parties for 11-16s inc dramatic games, songs and fun. Paula on 01386 429429 www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties

Face Painting and Make Up Funky Faces face painting and My Little Makeover Party – offer a broad range of parties including face painting, nails, make up and craft activities. Jane on 01905 763362 or Jo on 07967 483878. www.funkyfaces.biz

Pyjama Drama – Themed parties for children up to 7 years old full of games, music, movement.

Donna on 01527 908935 www.pyjamadrama.com Noodle Doodles – a mobile party entertainment business that will come to your venue arranging games and activities. Rachael or Hannah on 07718 762030 www.noodledoodles.co.uk

Glitz n Giggles – is a successful children’s party business. For over three years we have been providing parties for children aged 3 up to prom age. Choose from a variety of boys and girls parties from princess/pamper, football parties, pirate parties, dinosaur parties, Hollywood glamour parties and much more. We also do candy buffets with our very popular candy cart, chocolate pizzas, foot spas, jewellery making, face painting, glitter tattoos and much more... and all at a reasonable cost. Contact us for bouncy castle hire and Princess appearances with sing alongs or why not hire a ‘glamping’ bell tent from us for the weekend to hold your party in! Whatever your party needs we will have something to suit you!

Party bags are all included. Debbie on 07817 704933 www.glitzngiggles.co.uk Jenny’s Pampering – offer mini makeover parties for children inc nail art, glitter make up, foot spas, hair curled or straightened. Jenny on 07816 484785 www.jennyspampering.co.uk The Daisy Face Company – face painting and glitter tattoos parties inc party bags and photos for boys and girls.

Karole on 07886 317051 www.thedaisyfacecompany.com

Go-Karting Worcester Indoor Karting & Laser Combat – Worcester’s only indoor centre which can be enjoyed by families, individuals and groups. We have junior karts (8-14yr olds) and bigger karts for mums and dads too!

We run family track sessions so kids can really show mum and dad how it’s done! Once the racing is over, why not enjoy our 2000 sq ft laser arena? Using lightweight guns and packs, be prepared to avoid the enemy while gaining points and shooting the opposition! With different game modes and shooting options available, team up and really show off your skill. Ideal deal for 5 years and upwards and great for parties as it’s mess-free. All safety gear is included and we can provide hot or cold food. We have a huge spectator area with air hockey, a pool table and arcade games so you can really make your experience memorable. For enquiries and bookings please call 01905 352200 www.kartingworcester.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Children’s parties Pottery Eastnor Pottery – A unique, creative and very memorable way for your child and friends to celebrate their birthday to produce ceramic birthday keepsakes.

Jon on 01531 633886 www.eastnorpottery.co.uk Green Frog Pottery – Several different painting pottery party packages including a personalised plate for the birthday child and drinks for each child. Carrie on 01684 561778 www.greenfrogpottery.co.uk Honeybourne Pottery – Mix and match activities to suit the most creative of partygoers. Potter’s wheel, clay modelling and ceramic painting. Annabel or Alan on 01386 830410 www.honeybournepots.co.uk Jets Craft Cafe – Pottery painting, decopatch, enamelling, teddy bear and soap making parties. Sandra on 01527 873866 www.jetspotterypainting.co.uk

Scalextric Phoenix Scalextric – a huge 150 ft track with 6 lanes. Birthday, family parties and special events catered for from age 6 onwards. Jon on 07949 656577 www.phoenixscalextriccircuit.com

Mark Dove Golf Academy – Parties for children 5-16 years inc 1 hour on the golf range, games and competitions plus certificate. Mark on 07725811323 www.markdovegolfacademy.co.uk

Marksman Leisure – Shooting4Fun. Entertainment for most kids aged 7 – 107 for all your shooting entertainment needs. We are based in Hanbury Worcestershire, just a ten-minute drive from Junction 5 of the M5. • Wedding Day • Laser Clay Shooting • Woodland Laser Tag Birthday Parties • Office Parties • Works Parties • Corporate Entertainment • Stag & Hen Parties • After Conference Entertainment • Team Building Events – ½ day and full day programmes available.

Your Location or Our Location.

Mark on 01527 575141 or email mark@shooting4fun.co.uk or www.laser-shooting.com or www.shooting4fun.co.uk

Sport

Ravenmeadow – Parties include tuition with fun games and prizes, food and drink. Tel 01905 757525 www.ravenmeadowgolf.co.uk

Aztec Adventure – A variety of party packages inc kayaking, canoeing, pedal boats, raft building, windsurfing and sailing. 01386 860013 www.aztecadventure.co.uk

Rugby Tots – play and party games for children 2-7 years with a number of different options available.

Tel 0845 313 0014 www.rugbytots.co.uk

FDC Sport – A variety of activities inc football, gymnastics, bouncy castle, gladiator zone and nerf wars inc prizes, special medal, trophy and award ceremony for party child, invitations. Jamie on 07810 420787 www.fdcsport.co.uk Footiebugs – includes a magical football adventure for younger children, fun party games for all ages and a tournament match and penalty shoot out for older children. 0121 777 7792 www.footiebugs.com KO Sport – delivers birthday parties with a difference.

Coming highly recommended from years of bookings we have fine-tuned our parties to ensure maximum fun for all guests. Incorporating fun filled sports or dance around your child’s favourite TV/book characters or theme is a winning combination. KO Sport can take all the worry away by providing invitations, party bags and entertainment and even a sports trophy for the birthday child. From football to Zumba, goal ball to disco divas, or why not try our new roller disco parties?

Whichever one you choose we guarantee your child will have a birthday to remember.

Email enquiries@kosport.co.uk or call on 01905 840396 www.kosport.co.uk

Tea Parties Avoncroft Museum – Mad Hatter’s Tea Parties.

Try a party with a difference and book an Alice in Wonderland themed tea party. Food is served in ‘mad’ ways and entertainment is provided by a dedicated member of staff. Tel 01527 831363 www.avoncroft.org.uk

Children’s Entertainers Andy’s Magic – magic show, mini disco, balloon animals, puppets. 01562 825231 www.andysmagic.co.uk Allsorts Magic – magic, balloons, puppets, games and disco. Dave on 01905 771674 www.davejonesmagic.com Looby Lou Parties – Would you like to enjoy your child’s special day, and eliminate the stress of planning their birthday party? Or attract families to enjoy your event? If so, Looby Lou Parties can solve your problems with a variety of entertainment to take the hard work out of having fun!

Ring Louise now on 07944 156798 www.loobylouparties.co.uk

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors National / International Competitions Specialised Children Only Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced classes Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 2nd Dan

Special offer 5 FREE lessons

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Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Magic Russ – A magic act including face painting, discos with Dave the wonderdog and Chico the Mind reading monkey. Russ on 07773 803933 www.magic4kids.co.uk Mr Genie Magic Show – children’s magic show with balloon modelling, puppets, comedy fun and magic. Phil 01562 754824 www.mrgeniechildrensmagic.co.uk Ukidz – party entertainers for children of all ages.

Large choice of themed parties inc minecraft, frozen, pirates, princess, cartoon heroes, witches & wizards, teenage, pre-school. 0800 566 8715 www.ukidz.co.uk

Suppliers Accessories/Equipment Party Pickles – offering themed hand-crafted, traditional party items, providing an entire party in a box – taking all the stress and headache out of theming and decorating children’s parties.

07710 264148 www.partypickles.co.uk Sweet Traditions – a traditional old fashioned sweet shop in Pershore supplying a huge variety of sweets, party bags and gifts. Party bags to order.

Clare on 01386 553262 www.sweettraditions.co.uk The Ultimate Party Shop – party accessories and fancy dress shop for all occasions in Worcester, Cheltenham and online. 01905 745150 www.ultimatepartyshop.com Treasure Trails – ideal for a treasure hunt party.

Some Trails require you to solve a murder mystery whilst others require you to go on a treasure hunt or crack the code to save the world! Amanda on 07736 305648. www.treasuretrails.co.uk Worcester PA Hire – providing Easy to use PA and lighting systems for parties, functions and corporate events. Matt on 07867 801672 www.worcesterpahire.co.uk

Inflatables BBC Inflatables – with around 100 hire items for children, teens and adults they have the largest range of inflatable fun in Worcestershire. From Princess Carriages, Superhero Fun Runs to awesome Medieval Demolition Wrecking Balls and Rodeo Rugby Balls, take a look at their website. They are sure to have suitable equipment for every type of party. Photo Booths are also their speciality. If you are organising a party, school prom, leavers party, corporate event or fete, give them a call.

You will not be disappointed. 01905 841902 www.bbcinflatables.co.uk

Newbridge Farm Park

• • • • •

Tractor Rides Pony Rides Hands on Pet time Indoor Play Barn Outdoor Play and Picnic Areas • Zipwire • Trampolines (indoor and out)

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.30 – 6.30 pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30 pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40 pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15 – 10.15 am

Open Mon-Sat during holidays Open Wed-Sat during term-time Closed Sundays www.newbridgefarmpark.com

www.kombatkids.com 01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG

01531 670 780

May – June 2015

Children’s parties Bouncers Castle Hire – bouncy castles for children and adults, sumo wrestling suits. 01905 339597 www.bouncerscastlehire.co.uk Little Softies – several different packages of soft play equipment for hire for babies and young children.

0844 3101419 www.littlesofties.co.uk Worcester Bouncy Castles by Bounce King – selection of bouncy castles, plasma cars, and party bags.

01905 455300 www.worcesterbouncycastles.co.uk

Venues & Play All Things Wild, Honeybourne nr Evesham – themed parties offered with a choice of dinosaurs, farms, creepy crawlies and beach inc themed tableware and party bags. 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk Blackwell Adventure Park, Bromsgrove – lots of different indoor and outdoor activities to choose from for children and adults. 0121 445 1285 www.blackwelladventure.co.uk Bowl Xtreme Ltd, Worcester – ten pin bowling parties from 3-13 years inc food, party bag and disco.

01905 757475 www.bowlxtreme.co.uk Chessgrove Swim – Pool parties come with exclusive use of the leisure pool, complete with bubbling volcano pad, waterfall and water cannons also exclusive use of party room. 01527 821978 www.chessgroveswim.co.uk Clives Fruit Farm, Upton on Severn – An adventure playground, animals, a wildlife trail and farm shop catering for parties. 01684 592664 www.clivesfruitfarm.co.uk Coconut Island, Redditch – choice of soft play, make and bake and laser parties inc food.

01527 529040 www.coconutislandredditch.co.uk Dudley Zoo – A fun-filled two hours whilst learning about the natural world followed by party food and face painting. 0844 474 2272 www.dudleyzoo.org.uk Halo Leisure, Herefordshire – Several leisure centres offering various party options inc Splash Time, The Inflatable Challenge, Waves & Slides Special, Sports Hall Parties. 0300 012 1222 www.haloleisure.org.uk Ice Quest, Malvern – Ice Skating and Laser Quest Parties in Malvern includes activity, hot snack, squash & invites. 01684 575222 www.icequestmalvern.co.uk Imagination Street, Bromsgrove or Redditch – 2 soft play centres with experience rooms plus several party options inc Frozen and superhero parties.

01527 836377 Bromsgrove or 01527 892243 Redditch or www.imaginationstreet.co.uk Little Acorns, Worcester – large soft play centre with parties available inc party food in a dedicated party room, squash and invitations. 01905 424766 www.worcesterindoorplay.co.uk Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton – farm park offering 2 options inc soft play, food, party games, farm tour, petting barn. 01905 620325 www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk MFA Bowl Worcester – party inc game of bowling, invites, kids meal, juice, party bags, bowling voucher.

0843 290 8928 www.mfabowl.com/worcester

Please contact Diane on 01684 586620 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

May – June 2015

DON’T FORGET TO MENTION WHEN YOU TELEPHONE THAT YOU SAW THE PARTY LISTING IN “FAMILIES HEREFORD AND WORCESTER MAGAZINE”

Newbridge Farm Park

New Bridge Play Barn & Farm Park, Ledbury – with all its activities and facilities provides a great venue for children’s parties. There is a party room provided with picnic benches, sink, fridge and wi-fi for you if you want to bring a picnic. There is also a pony party option to choose. Your visit to the farm can be as long as you like during opening times on party day & includes all other activities too. Wayne or Julie on 01531 670780 www.newbridgeplaybarn.com Oakerwood Leisure – Activity Birthday Parties inc junior quads, paintball, ropes, climbing, rafting.

01568 780111 www.oakerwoodleisure.co.uk

Girls Pamper Parties! Age 3+ Princess appearances & Frozen-themed parties.

Dressing up, Nail art, Karaoke, Jewellery & magic wand making, Foot spas, Chocolate fountains & more!! Very competitive prices.

Contact the pamper fairy to get a party tailored to you!

www.glitzngiggles.co.uk 07817704933

Tonia Peters

Party Bus Surprise – a fun packed party on Burtha, the yellow double decker bus. 01527 570093 www.partybussurprise.co.uk

Educational Psychologist

Play Planet, Hereford – Several party packages inc soft play, football, pizza making, craft, makeover and disco, craft and laser tag parties. 01432 355777 www.playplanethereford.co.uk

Independent assessment and advice for all special needs including autism, learning difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia and attention problems

The Orchard Cafe – at the Countryside Centre, Worcester with great healthy organic party food.

01905 766492 www.theorchardcafe.co.uk

BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd (Ed Psych) (Chartered by the BPS)

Tel: 07853 248311

Grafton Psychology Associates Ltd Trading as Tonia Peters Company Registration Number: 7853233. Registered in England and Wales.

The world outside – a forest party with den building, bug hunting, campfire cooking, mud modelling, natural crafts. Themes for younger children inc fairies and elves, Dinosaurs, The Gruffalo and Where the wild things are. Sandra on 07765 394456 www.the-worldoutside.co.uk Top Barn Farm Park, Worcester – Children’s parties held in beautiful surroundings with lots of animals to see.

Included in the cost are access to play area and farm park, pet the bunny, trailer tour of the farm, lovely healthy freshly made party food with colourful cups, plates and napkins. Party bags can be provided for each child at an extra cost. Mike on 01905 621954 or email shop@topbarn.co.uk www.topbarn.co.uk West Midlands Safari Park – party includes admission to the safari park, birthday meal and birthday child over 5 years old can be star of the sea lion show. 01299 402114 www.wmsp.co.uk Worcester Play Centre Ltd – Cheeky Monkeys offer 3 different party packages inc soft play, invitations, food, cupcakes, party bags. 01905 358148 www.worcesterplaycentre.co.uk Wychavon Leisure includes – The Dolphin Centre, Bromsgrove 01527 549130, Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre 01905 771212, Evesham Leisure Centre 01386 444212, Pershore Leisure Centre 01386 552346, Sport Martley 01886 888999 and Sport Dyson Perrins 01684 572645.

A choice of pool, soft play, sports and shark attack www.wychavonleisure.co.uk Wyre Forest Sports and Leisure Centres includes – Bewdley Leisure Centre 01299 402595, Stourport Leisure Centre 01299 822308 and Wyre Forest Glades Leisure Centre 01562 515151.

A choice of ultimate pool, supreme bouncer and soft play, premiership, Amazona and studio parties. www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk Perdiswell and Worcester Swimming Pools – A choice of wet and wacky, fun and games, football frenzy, and the big bounce parties. www.1life.co.uk 01905 457189 Perdiswell and 01905 20241 Worcester

Saturday free running races for children 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month at Cob House Fisheries, Worcester, WR6 6YE and Abbey Park, Pershore, WR10 1JP. Races start at 9.00am.

Please arrive at 8.45 for warm ups! Toddlers to teenagers welcome. FREE to take part.

Register at www.kidsrunfree.co.uk @kidsrunfree

Kids Run Free Worcester

To volunteer contact Justin@kidsrunfree.co.uk

Fun filled parties: Age 4-12’s: Football High energy dance Multi Games

Age 8-12’s: Roller disco Skates provided Music and Lights

All parties can be themed

01905 840396 or

email sales@kosport.co.uk www.kosport.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On

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

Family fun at Museum of Carpet Saturday 9 May

Meet Dr Stretton. Costumed demonstrators creating medical mayhem!

Friday 15 May An evening of ghastly history brought to life by our costumed demonstrators.

Saturday 30 May Meet Dr Stretton. Costumed demonstrators creating medical mayhem!

Stour Vale Mill, Green Street, Kidderminster DY10 1AZ Telephone: 01562 69028

www.museumofcarpet.org

What’s On THEATRE

Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Jan Page – Little Words. The Secrets behind Grandpa In My Pocket Jan Page is a children’s writer and co-creator of CBeebies comedy, Grandpa in my Pocket, who will be sharing some of the secrets of writing for children’s television – how to create a world, build characters, devise stories and then bring them all to life on screen. Sunday 21st June 2.00 pm £6.00, £3.00 under 16s Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Schools Together Concert Young musicians from four local middle schools sing and play their Show Stoppers and at the end of the concert the four schools join together to perform.

Thursday 25th June 7.00 pm £6.00, £3.00 under 16s Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.co.uk Children’s Theatre Short plays for Children. Highly Entertaining for kids of all ages. Saturday 16th May 2.30 and 4.00 pm £1.50 Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org My Pet Monster & Me A monster of a show which bursts to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. Tuesday 26th May 2.30 pm £8.50, £7.00 (under 16) Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www. redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Sing along a Frozen A screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along together with live host and magic moments prop bag so that you can interact with the movie.

Saturday 9th May 11.30 am and 3.00 pm £15.75, £10.75 and £35.25 family ticket Stories with Paddington Bear Come and meet the bear from Peru and listen to much loved stories about Paddington Bear told by Dave Wilkins, professional storyteller. Themed craft and Marmalade sandwiches for all.

Saturday 23rd May 10.00 am and 12.00 noon £3.00

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www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

The Chuckles of Oz Dorothy, The Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow are among the familiar characters who join the Wizards (Paul and Barry) for this sensational new version of the familiar Wizard of Oz story. Thursday 28th May 2.00 pm £14.75, £12.75 and £55.00 family ticket

Milkshake! Preparations for Milkshake Monkey’s surprise birthday party get underway but what happens when Milkshake Monkey disappears? The presenters will need the audience’s help to find him in time for the party! Friday 29th May 1.00 and 3.30 pm £12.75, £10.75 and £45.00 family ticket Honk! A Musical Comedy based on the Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Anderson. Thursday 11th – Saturday 13th June 7.30 pm and 2.30 pm (sat) £12.75 The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Jack and the beanstalk Patrick Lynch from Cbeebies tells the story. It’s a show for the over 3’s with something for everyone – enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold and a big, leafy explosion! Suitable for ages 3 years +. Saturday 9th May 2.00 pm £8.00, £7.00 The Chris and Pui Roadshow See Chris & Pui from ‘Show Me Show Me’ in their new stage show with the toys & characters from their hit TV programme. Friday 29th – Saturday 30th May 11.00 am, 2.00 pm £12.00, £11.00 Teddy’s Birthday Eddy the Teddy returns with another tale for the under sixes. The show uses many elements of theatre, mime, puppetry and songs to join in with. Saturday 6th June 2.00 pm £8.00, £7.00 The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk First prize Billy Will Billy win first prize for his carrots at the village fete?

Are Mrs Rose’s flowers in danger? Is Syd the super-slug up to mischief or just hungry? Saturday 2nd May 10.30, 11.45 am £2.50 Dance to the sea Join the cast of Happy Steps on a magical journey as they encounter dangerous pirates, bad weather and beautiful mermaids! This will be an exciting show of ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, drama and street jazz. Proceeds will be donated to Acorns Children’s Hospice and St. Richards Hospice. Friday 12th – Sunday 14th June 6.30 pm (Fri) 12.30 and 5.30 pm (Sat and Sun) £10.00, £9.00 child May – June 2015

What’s On GARDEN CENTRES Evesham Country Park, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 41661, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Secret Book Box Decorating May Half Term Children’s Craft Activities.

Monday 25th, Wednesday 27th, Friday 29th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG 01527 860000, www.webbsdirect.co.uk Wychbold Half Term Fun Children can follow a fun trail around the Riverside Gardens and all correct entries will go into a draw to win a prize.

Saturday 23rd May – Sunday 31st May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm.

Children’s Fair Rides Tuesday 26th May – Sunday 31st May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm. £1.50 per ride

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Traditional May Day Celebration with maypole dancing, country crafts, music, food and traditional Morris dancing.

Monday 4th May Museums at Night: night time tales See “Night at the Museum” (cert PG) and then explore Avoncroft’s grounds after dark. The buildings will be lit by candlelight and inhabited by story-tellers with their night-time tales.

Friday 15th May 7.30 pm Once upon a time… A fun day out for all the family with a fairytale theme.

Spot your favourite characters from popular children’s stories in trails and activities. Monday 25th May Happily ever after The fairytale theme continues with craft activities and storytelling. Tuesday 26th – Thursday 28th May American Civil War Weekend Drill, skirmishes and living history from a popular re-enactment group. Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th June Father’s Day Free Museum entry for dads and Windmill sailing! Sunday 21st June Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk National Mills Day Celebrate National Mills Day by visiting the world’s only surviving water powered scouring mill.

Saturday 9th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £2.00, Children FREE Remembering the 1940s Find out more about life during the Second World War with ‘Forever Forties’ and friends. Displays, re-enactments including music, Military vehicles, 1940s fashions, Austin cars, Children’s May – June 2015

activities. Sunday 17th May 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £3.00, Children £1.00 A Knight’s Tale Witness the drill and arming of military men and see the medieval world come to life. Junior knight’s school, including dress up, visit the encampment, experience medieval life, inspect the soldiers’ weapons and armour. Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £3.00, Child £1.00 Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Gorgeous Georgians - Holiday Activities Time travel back to 1788 and meet King George & Queen Charlotte who are visiting Bishop Hurd at Hartlebury Castle. Learn more about the world of the Georgians and make your own Georgian wig. Monday 25th May 11.00 am – 5.00 pm Craft activities Gorgeous Georgians themed craft activities. Tuesday 26th Friday 29th May 10.30 am-4.00 pm £2.00 per child per craft Father’s Day All Dads admitted free.

Sunday 21st June 11.00 am – 5.00 pm

ATTRACTIONS Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Chilli Festival Stalls selling everything chilli - chutneys, chocolate, cakes, wine, plants and more. Cookery demonstrations with local chefs, Children’s cookery school, live music and famous Chilli eating competition.

Saturday 3rd - Sunday 4th May 11.00 am – 5.30 pm Vintage Family Fun Day A nostalgic family fun day. Line up of impressive Steam Engines, Tea Tent, Giant Garden Games, model steam engine rides, vintage carousel, chair swing and more!

Sunday 24th – Monday 25th May Mini Wildplay Explore nature with the Herefordshire Wildlife Trust. Mud kitchen, bug hunting, den building and rope trail. Sunday 7th June Knight’s School and Junior Jousting Knights School and Jousting at Eastnor Castle - Medieval mayhem for the children! Sunday 14th June Falconry Treat Dad to a day out with amazing displays from the beautiful birds of prey. Sunday 21st June SOS Day A family day out enjoying displays from the local emergency services. Sunday 28th June

Please contact Diane on 01684 586620 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine. www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW 01684 584900, www.threecounties.co.uk RHS Malvern Spring Festival The Spring Festival brings together inspirational ideas, practical tips and a fantastic day out plus loads for children including school gardens challenge.

Thursday 7th – Sunday 10th May Royal Three Counties Show A jam packed day of family entertainment and fun in celebration of our great British farming world and countryside. Friday 12th – Sunday 14th June Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcester, WR6 6JT 01905 726311, www.english-heritage.org.uk A very Victorian Day Out The best of British fun and historical high-jinx with a great mix of fun and games for all including a Victorian toyshop with games and a Punch and Judy show.

Sunday 24th – Monday 25th May

NATIONAL TRUST EVENTS Berrington Hall, Nr Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 Georgian genius trail Discover the genius of the Georgians at Berrington with an outdoor trail. Saturday 23rd – Sunday 31st May 10.00 am – 4.00 pm

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Hereford & Worcester

Build a Georgian Den Children of the Georgian era loved nothing more than to play outdoors. They also loved to make dens. See if you can build a sturdy den with some help from the rangers.

Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th May 11.00 am – 3.00 pm Lace Wars Join Berrington as Lace Wars sets up camp, with authentic weaponry, daily drills, displays and gun powder galore. Saturday 13th – Sunday 14th June 10.00 am – 5.00 pm

SPECIAL EVENTS, DAYS OUT AND FESTIVALS Hay Festival and Hay Fever, Hay-on-Wye A ten day literary festival including children having the chance to meet and talk to their favourite writers and take part in workshops to create wonderful memories and develop new skills in imaginative thinking and self expression.

Thursday 21st – Sunday 31st May www.hayfestival.com St Richards Boat and Car Festival, Droitwich A family fun weekend in Vines Park including a vintage car rally, Canal boats, medieval re-enactments and entertainment, markets stalls, children’s activities, art workshops, face painting, orienteering, Duck race on the Salwarpe River and much more.

Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May www.strichardsfestival.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Asparafest Music & Food Festival, Evesham Family fun, Workshops, Demonstrations, Exhibitors and more! Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May www.asparafest.co.uk Upton Jazz Festival Family friendly festival. Children under 14 free when accompanied by an adult.

Prices vary so please visit website.

Thursday 25th – Sunday 28th June www.uptonjazz.co.uk Throckmorton Airshow The UK’s largest Emergency services and Military show supporting various charities. Last year included an amazing line up of static and flying exhibits inc emergency vehicles, parachutes, police dogs, famous faces from TV cop shows and more. Pre-paid tickets have to be purchased to ensure admission.

Saturday 6th June www.throckmortonairshow.co.uk Rock and Roll Party in the Park, Riverside, Stourport, DY13 8UJ A celebration of Rock and Roll music featuring a D.J., live bands and dance throughout the day plus children’s rides.

Free admission. Sunday 31st May 11.00 am – 6.00 pm

Celebrate Summer Party in The Park, Brinton Park, Stourport, DY11 6QT Come on down to Brinton Park for a great afternoon and evening of entertainment! Proms in the park, food and drink stalls, children’s rides and trade stalls. Saturday 21st June 2.30 – 9.00pm 01562 732975, email amy.smith@wyreforestdc.gov.uk Family Fun Open Day, The Coach House, Main Road, Ombersley, Droitwich, WR9 0EW Cakes, food, face painting, tombola, games, music, jewellery making, H&W Fire Service plus Henry Sandon from BBC Antiques Roadshow will be here to support a mini Antiques Roadshow! You are invited to bring ceramics along to value while he delights you with witty anecdotes from a lifetime’s experience.

So, now’s your chance to have an expert opinion on your pottery and china.

Sunday 17th May 12.00 midday – 4.00 pm www.alzheimers.org.uk

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

May – June 2015