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Winter 2018 / 2019 Issue No. 95
December 2018 / January 2019
12,000 copies delivered to Pershore, Evesham, and nearby towns and villages Your Free Magazine
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RENOVATE RESTORE REMODEL
ITALIAN GARDEN DESIGNER •20 years of practical experience •complete designs and building supervision for gardens of any size •planting plans and partial designs for garden refurbishments
•DESIGN SOLUTIONS TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS
07720975897
fabio@edgehogardens.com www.edgehogardens.com
E. Hill & Son Funeral Directors Established 1960 Independent Family Run Business Holders of Diploma in Funeral Directing Professional & Sympathetic Service Available 24 Hours Prepaid funeral plans available
01386 552141 edgehogardens Natural Garden Design
www.ehillandson.co.uk Fairfield House, Defford Road, Pershore, WR10 1HZ
The Lygonian Singers We're looking for:
a Baritone and an occasional Pianist an occasional Pianist Small friendly group, mostly retired Thursday nights, Evesham Thurs nights, Evesham
dianarayner@hotmail.com 07985 031767 2
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
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The Grapevine
3
Luke’s Fencing Services All types of new fencing including:
• Close Board Fencing • • Panel Fencing • • Picket Fencing • Stock Fencing • • Hit & Miss Fencing • … and many more
Call now for a free quote on your choice of fencing style and design We also provide repairs and maintenance service Tel:
01386 244680
Mobile: 07892447450 or email lcgardening@yahoo.co.uk
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CHRIS BOTTRELL Tel: 01905 700142 Mob: 07867 813616 www.aztecdecorating.com Fully Insured member of the Painting & Decorating Association
THE
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24a Broad Street, Pershore
Tel: 01386 553 626 e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com
Luke's Garden Maintenance Any gardening job quoted for, including: y Fencing y Hedge cutting y y Patios laid y Decking areas y y Patio cleaning y y Mowing y Tree work y y Fence and shed painting y y Guttering cleaning y
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Mobile: 07892447450
or email lcgardening@yahoo.co.uk
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
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The Grapevine
5
Hello Readers... Welcome to the Winter issue of The Grapevine. Don’t forget to keep it for two months, until the Early Spring issue comes through your door at the end of January.
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In this issue, the focus is of course, on Christmas. In the What’s On section you’ll find lots of events leading up to Christmas, and further on in the magazine is our Christmas cake recipe . . . with a difference! I haven’t tried this one for myself, but it sounds delicious, so I’ve decided to make it to have in addition to our usual fruit cake! Fortunately we’ve got a house full of visitors this year, so I don’t suppose there’ll be much in the way of leftovers.
Publisher & Advertising Grapevine Publications (Worcestershire) Ltd 5\H 6WUHHW ‡ %LUWVPRUWRQ ‡ :5 $6 7HO y 0RE info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Editor
Those of you who know me, know that before coming to live in England, I spent many years in South Africa, so despite having been here for the last 18 years, a traditional English Christmas is still a novelty for me: real Christmas trees, and real holly wreaths, real mistletoe, and sometimes, if we are very lucky, real snow! Although I spent most of my life in Africa, somehow a barbeque on Christmas Day in 40° sunshine just didn’t seem right, so cold, crisp winter’s days (and, fingers crossed, a little snow) are what I’m looking forward to!
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Advertising & Editorial %HWW\ $QQ $PEXU\
Contributors
$P\ 0DUVKDOO Geraldine Holbourn Haines Watts -RQDWKDQ %LVKRS 3DPHOD *UHHQ Sue Johnson Trevor Langley
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DISCLAIMER. All information published is correct according to those who supplied it and no responsibility is taken if it is not. Care is taken to ensure all advertisements are truthful and no liability is accepted for errors or omissions. Artwork is accepted on the understanding that there are no copyright restrictions.
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And on that note, I will wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you all have a wonderful festive season, so until next time, keep happy and healthy.
Betty
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All artwork and copy appearing in this publication is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The right to refuse advertisements is reserved. The use of this publication for canvassing, direct marketing or any other activity apart from sourcing local goods and services is strictly prohibited. Š 2018
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
This month . . . 8
SIGHT CONCERN
9
HEALTHY HAIR
10
COLOURFUL POINSETTIA
11
HUMBERTS
14
NEW ANIMAL WELFARE LEGISLATION
18
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS & SUPER5TITIONS
21
CHAMPAGNE: DISCOVERING HIDDEN GEMS
23
VET TALK
24
WEST MIDLAND SAFARI PARK
26
LDA MEATS OF PERSHORE
40 The Grapevine
24
21
10
29
PICK UP YOUR PEN!
40
MOVEMENT IN THE GARDEN
30
OURSIDE YOUTH CENTRE EVESHAM
42
CHRISTMAS BREAK
31
HAINES WATTS
44
COMMUNITY CONTACTS
32
CHRISTMAS CAKE RECIPE
45
THE LAST SUMMER TENANTS
36
WHAT'S ON IN DECEMBER & JANUARY
46
PERSHORE TREE OF LIGHTS
38
ALM FITNESS
49
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
7
Sight Concern Bobble Hats These wonderful bobble hats, in the colours of the Sight Concern Logo, have been knitted free of charge by Wendy Burfitt and friends, of Yarn and Good Company, 65 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU.
CR Decorating aims to meet CR exceed Decorating to meet and youraims painting and and exceed your painting decorating needs. and decorating needs. Our Services include:
Our services include : interior and exterior painting, decorating, tiling …. and more Call us now to discuss your decorating needs
Fully insured • Over 10 years’ experience Dineley Road, Peopleton, WR10 2EJ Call Chris Rabot on
M: 07801 271038 T: 01905 412150 They are available for a £5 donation either from the shop or from p.weir@sightconcern.co.uk If you would like to knit your own, you can order a pack including pattern and wool for £3.50. Sight Concern is your county charity which helps blind and partially sighted people to lead independant and fulfilling lives.
E: crdecorating@gmail.com www.crdecorating.co.uk
Proud Winners of Ultraframe Conservatories Installation of the Month
A complete range of stunning Glazed Extensions and Conservatories
Celebrati n 36 yea g in busin rs ess
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Monday - Friday AM TO PM 3ATURDAY AM TO PM 3UNDAY 5PTON 7ARREN ONLY AM TO PM
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
HEALTHY HAIR STARTS WITHIN...
A scalp examination can reveal a multitude of unhealthy conditions within your body which some conventional treatments only target extermally. The truth is that hormones are the true culprit. They affect weight gain and our ability to maintain a healthy ph balance within our bodies. The symptoms of hormonal imbalance can often show on the skin, especially the scalp, resulting in embarrassing dry, itchy, red scaly patches. Another symptom of our bodies being out of balance is thinning hair. Hormone imbalance is a constant stress to a woman's metabolism, which can come to a standstill, causing a ripple effect in our bodies and hair.
SO WHAT CAN YOU DO? Sue McLaughlin, hair specialist and salon owner, recommends a microscopic hair test which can give a wealth of information regarding your overall well-being. Sample strands of hair are collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. A comprehensive report is then compiled detailing what foods are affecting you, the deficiencies that might be causing your symptoms and any other underlying issues that may be of concern.
Sue explains that it’s a 3-month programme that she recommends for hair and health and they can easily work in harmony together. Once the programme has been completed using the 'detox, build and nurture ethos', then everyday foods in addition to a maintenance programme are all that should be required to maintain it. Sue has a wealth of knowledge in this field and supports your consultation by guiding you through the process. Upon receipt of the laboratory report, Sue then offers you a range of achievable solutions to include a complimentary consultation with the in-house nutritionist who will guide you to your choice of remedy. Sue, a highly experienced hairdresser and a La Biosthetique specialist, is a member of the prestigious BRCP (British Register of Complementary Practitioners), her passion is optimum hair and scalp health, particularly where this relates to all aspects of thinning, and hair-loss. If you're interested in the test to determine the health of your hair or personal well-being, why not book yourself in for your annual hair and health check and take advantage of the introductory price of £129.99 It could be life changing! Clinics in Pershore, Alcester and a Private Consulting Clinic in Evesham, Home Visits are also available.
The Grapevine
To arrange an appointment, please call or email Anita, the salon co-ordinator. info@sweeneytoddsalon.co.uk 01386 553320 w: Hairsciencetherapy.com
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C
ome December you're almost guaranteed to catch sight of masses of bright red poinsettias. They appear in great abundance in supermarkets and nurseries, and we purchase them to decorate our homes, shops, and churches, in the festive season. Poinsettia is a native plant of Mexico (euphorbia pulcherrima). It is photoperiodic, meaning it blooms only when the days grow short during the colder months. Its colour mirrors the classic holiday tones and colours of Christmas, with delicate green leaves and vivid red bracts modified leaves that resemble flower petals; the actual flowers are the tiny buds, called cyathia, and these are in the centre of the bracts. It’s no wonder they have become a symbol of the season, with such a bright red colour. Poinsettias do best when the room temperature is between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C); don’t go much lower in the evening or you will get leaf drop. Also, keep them away from drafts and cold windows. In daytime, poinsettias like lots of direct light. Place your plants near a south-facing window and keep the soil moist whilst they are in bloom. A simple way to create humidity around the plant is to fill a shallow tray or saucer with pebbles, cover with water and stand the poinsettia in its pot on
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top of the pebbles. Be careful not to over water, you should only need to water it if the soil is starting to dry out. Many experts keep plants all year round and know when to prune and use specialized fertilizer. When the poinsettia comes indoors the experts will cover the plant with a box, for maybe six or eight weeks, as the plant does need a 12-hour dark night. This also helps their beautiful blooms, and when the box is removed just before the holiday season what a spectacular display you'll have. Some people use the plants for cut flowers as they add such colour to any display. You should place the stems under running water to let the milky sap run out before adding them to your spectacular array.
Now you are able to purchase sophisticated pink, named Peppermint Ruffles, also Sparkling Punch, which is pink with a white centre. You can also purchase a white poinsettia called White Rosettes, and a gold called Autumn Leaves. My thoughts on that are that my favourite will always be the beautiful red plant, but I'm no specialist. I just love to see them in our church for the Christmas services - they look so lovely and bright. article & photos by Pamela Green
Many horticulturists are trying to broaden the plant's horizons by creating a variety of colours different from the vibrant red.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
YOUR COTSWOLDS TEAM COMMITTED TO TAKING YOU ON YOUR PROPERTY JOURNEY
Faith Flynn
Nick Day
Julia Chappell
Adam Phelps
Caroline Ferris
Base Team Executive
Property Consultant
Property Consultant
Regional Manager
Assistant Regional Manager
At Humberts we are changing the way we do things, we don’t just focus on selling or letting properties. Our teams are able to support you on all items related to your property journey, whether arranging your removals, MEET THE TEAM (from left to right) organising tradesmen or submitting plans for your dream extension, our dedicated team can do it all. Contact us today if you want to work with an agent that can offer you more.
Contact the Cotswolds team: 01285 650955 cotswolds@humberts.com cotswolds@humberts.com The Grapevine
humberts.com MOVING YOU SINCE 1842 MOVING YOU SINCE 1842
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Ensuring your assets Ensuring your assets pass to those “you” choose. pass to those “you” choose.
WILLS y TRUSTS y LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY 1-2 THE GREEN, STATION ROAD, ECKINGTON 1-2 THE GREEN, STATION ROAD, ECKINGTON WORCESTERSHIRE WRlO 3BE WORCESTERSHIRE WRlO 3BE MOBILE: 07770 833916 EMAIL: johnbees@beesandco.com MOBILE: 07770 833916 EMAIL: johnbees@beesandco.com www.beesandco.com www.beesandco.com ALL TYPES OF BUILDING WORK CONSTRUCTION DRIVEWAYS • BLOCK PAVING TARMAC • DRIVEWAY REPAIRS RE-SURFACING DRIVEWAY SEALING
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Restore your driveway to its former glory
LAWNS • GARDEN CLEARANCE RUBBISH REMOVAL
Block Paving, Driveways and Patios Using the latest pressure washer systems these areas can be restored to their former glory. We then re-sand and if required seal on completion. Walls, Brick and Stonework We can also clean decking, fencing, roof tiles and more. All customers are entitled to a 14 day cooling off period
• 20 Years Experience • Personal and Professional Service • Show Drives available for viewing • Written Recommendations and References • Free Competitive Estimate and Advice
‘‘
as Choose Castle Paving stle everyman’s home is his ca
Office: 01386 213628 • 01527 283498 • Mobile: 07881 427297 Email: castleblocks68@gmail.com
www.castlepaving.co.uk
’’
Find us:
Village Street, Evesham WR11 7YE
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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
FELT ROOFING, SLATING & TILING SPECIALISTS New Roofs & Repairs ‡ Leadwork & Valleys Bird Guards / Cowls / Flashing 839& )DVFLDV 6RI¿WV *XWWHULQJ Concrete Gutters - Sealed or Removed Re-pointing, Ridges, Valleys & Chimneys etc Chimneys Rebuilt, Capped, Lowered or Removed
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For Free Quotes & Advice, Ring...
01684 541366 07926 861565
Portfolio & Recommendations Available To View The Grapevine
13
Local Dog Lovers Welcome New Animal
T
he Animal Activities Licensing (AAL) regulations which came into force on October 1st 2018, replacing outdated laws dating back as far as the 1950s, have been welcomed as a huge step in the right direction by local professional dog sitters Barking Mad – Pershore & East Worcester. Sheila Hughes of Barking Mad – Pershore & East Worcester said: “As the UK’s leading dog home boarding service we understand that dog lovers consider their pets to be family members and we expect new welfare laws in England to reflect that. Lee Dancy, our founder and managing director, has been campaigning for improvements to animal care for 18 years and believes the ABTA-style guarantee of quality assurance and standards that Barking Mad offers should be commonplace across the industry. She has recently been interviewed about the changes by BBC local radio stations across the country, as a leading figure in the pet care industry.” The new laws are extensive and include key areas such as: r Minimum standards for dog home boarders including that each dog or dogs from the same family unit must have
14
access to a room for itself, where it can sleep, go to hide and be kept separate from other dogs. There has to be sufficient safe indoor and outdoor space for each animal, plus there will have to be at least two doors or gates between a dog and access to the outside to prevent escape.
previous legislation was out of date and goes back to the 1950s and 1960s. The growing demand for alternatives to traditional pet care, such as kennels, has led to unregulated and unlicensed operators. This new law sees modern day reality of pet lovers and dog care services reflected in legislation.
r A ban for licensed commercial dealers in England from selling puppies and kittens under the age of eight weeks.
It will be a crackdown on the less scrupulous businesses which don’t look after the animal’s welfare or have the correct up to date facilities. For example, a home boarder in a small house without an adequate number of rooms or outside space. They will now have to improve their conditions to be able to get a licence or face being closed down.”
r Standardised criteria providing a framework of minimum standards for commercial pet businesses with a star-rating system where local authorities will determine a business’s score based on welfare standards r One generic licence for commercial pet businesses, regardless of how many licensable activities they are undertaking. Following consultation from Defra and work with the Pet Industry Federation, Lee Dancy has been working to help draft the new legislation for the past five years and would like to see Wales and Scotland bring their laws into line. She said: “This change is 100 per cent welcome and is all about the welfare of dogs. Much of the
Barking Mad has been arranging dog-sitting holidays with host families to the very highest standard since 2000. They are proud to have arranged more than 100,000 dog-sitting holidays to ensure people’s beloved pets feel home-from-home. Barking Mad dog home boarding volunteer hosts are dog lovers who enjoy the benefits of having a dog to stay on an occasional basis without the full time financial and emotional commitments of having their own dog. Sheila Hughes added: “Barking
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Welfare Legislation Mad hosts are already subject to rigorous checks in addition to new legislation and our business will continue to provide the very best care and peace of mind to customers and their owners.” More information is available from the Pet Industry Federation. To find out more about Barking Mad – Pershore & East Worcester, call Sheila Hughes on 01905 700722. Lee Dancy is available for further comment by contacting Barking Mad’s head office on 015242 76476. Barking Mad is part of the Franchise Brands plc group of companies and is the UK’s favourite dog holiday company, as verified by TrustPilot. Contact Barking Mad at www.barkingmad.uk.com to find your dog’s home from home today.
Cut Above Above The The Rest Rest
Gardening Service Complete Winter Garden All aspects of tree and hedge cutting undertaken Make-over Lawns Mowed • Borders Trimmed To include all aspects of tree and hedge Sell lawn your house using borders our complete cutting, shaping, cleared Garden Make-Over service and tended, and all leaves and rubbish Patios &removed. Driveways Cleaned
Don'tHouse let Clearance it lookService a mess! Call Carl or Trish on
07950 219050 / 07522 810416 meesoncarl@gmail.com to arrange a booking or for a free quote
Dog lovers wanted
Computer Problems?
Join our local host community Companionship, friendship and fun are guaranteed! • Dogs to suit your lifestyle • Completely flexible • Trial stays to ensure compatibility • Full support and advice • A playmate for your own dog
BarkingMad.uk.com
01905 700722 The Grapevine
PC repairs and upgrades Spyware and virus removal Health checks and PC servicing Website design and site marketing PC’s and media centres built to order General troubleshooting & support Configuring wireless networks Email and Internet problems Advice and ongoing help Apple Mac and Windows p: m: e: w:
01386 550191 07435 964579 info@pendas.co.uk www.pendas.co.uk
Onsite support for all your PC issues, for both the home and business user
Pendas Computer Services Ltd - Pershore -
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Sports Amenity & Landscaping Services à ® à ® à ® à ®
Driveways à ® Fencing Kerbing à ® Block Paving Drainage à ® Slabs Landscaping
Call us today on 01386 462425 or email: sales@phildaysports.co.uk
Experts in [OL ÄLSK and your garden Like ‘Phil Day Sports Ltd’ Follow @phildaysports
Shop online at www.phildaysports.co.uk Phil Day Sports Ltd, Glebe Farm, Church Lane, Bishampton, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 2FA
A W Parker Coal Merchants Ltd Ledbury 01531 631675 or 07483 350639 www.awparkercoalmerchants.co.uk
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Sharp Alarms & Security Systems
Intruder Alarms Access Control CCTV Systems Tel : 01386 244131 www.sharpalarms.com sales@sharpalarms.com
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
5
Reasons why you Shouldn’t have a Will one
You know when you’re going to die, you’ve got loads of time!
two
You rather like the idea of your children battling over your estate, falling out and never speaking to each other again!
three
You dislike your spouse and would prefer them to struggle with strenuous legal issues and be tied up in expensive litigation with your children for many years.
four
Your family doesn’t need the money. You actually much prefer the idea of the Government taking as much of your estate for taxes as they wish.
five
You think foster care would be the best place for your children, whilst Social Services and your family fight in court over which relative gets custody.
Of course, we are being overly flippant! Like us, you will not agree with any of these reasons.
Get in touch with our legal experts to discuss your Wills and Inheritance Tax Planning: Pershore
01386 562000
So, you should be asking yourself one very important question?
What logical reason is there for you NOT to have a Will?
Tewkesbury
01684 299633 Cheltenham
01242 235250 Stratford-upon-Avon
01789 295544
The Grapevine
You may assume that everything you own at your death will go to your husband, wife or partner, or perhaps you believe you have nothing to leave anyway. The fact is, without a Will, the Intestacy Rules say who gets what and put simply your property may not go to those who you wish to receive it. If you care about who benefits from your property after your death you MUST MAKE A WILL.
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pieces of metal so the added reflections would further terrify those unwanted presences and keep them away.
I
n many European countries it is considered unlucky to bring the Christmas tree indoors before Christmas Eve. Trees in the house before then are thought to have evil spirits hiding in them ready to invade the households. The trees left outside until Christmas Eve were believed to be purified by the holy night. The Romans started the tradition of putting candles on trees to frighten away evil spirits and they took it a step further by attaching
In England in the eleventh century, people decorated trees with apples on Christmas Eve to encourage luck and plenty in the coming year. It was believed that if you ate an apple at midnight on Christmas Eve you would have good health all year round. Hay carried around a church three times on Christmas Eve was said to ensure that cattle would fatten easier on less feed in the year to come. It was also said that nothing sown on Christmas Eve would perish, even if the seeds were sown in the snow. On Christmas Eve, it was considered to be unlucky to spin or sew, grind grain or leave the dishes unwashed. Wearing new shoes on Christmas Day is also not recommended. Don’t give them as a present unless you want that person to walk out of your life. No matter how bad the
singing, never send carol singers away without giving them food or money. To avoid toothaches and fevers in the coming year, tradition says you should bathe on Christmas Day. The first person to go downstairs on Christmas Day should take a broom and sweep away ‘trouble’ from the front and back door of the house. This will ensure peace for the coming year. Also, the first person to hear a rooster crow on Christmas Day is assured of good luck for the whole year. (In Ireland, they can also claim a glass of whiskey!). To ensure further good luck for you and your family, wish someone a Merry Christmas before you put your shoes and socks on, sneeze, eat breakfast by candlelight, give coins to a beggar and kiss the oldest person in the house. Good fortune will also come to the home where a fire is kept burning throughout the Christmas season.
Sue Johnson
Poet & Novelist
Creative Writing Workshops Critique Service & Talks Tel: 01386 446477 • www.writers-toolkit.co.uk 18
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t: 01905 841018 or m: 07899 964866 19
Celibacy . . . ?? Celibacy can be a choice in life, or a condition imposed by circumstances. Whilst attending a Marriage Weekend, Ken and his wife, Joan, listened to the instructor declare, "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other." He then addressed the men, "Can you name and describe your wife's favourite flower?"
Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
House Clearance Service Full or partial house clearance Sheds, Loft and Garages cleared
Ken leaned over, touched Joan's arm gently, and whispered, "It's Homepride, isn't it?" Thus began Ken's life of celibacy. *******
Technology . . . not always in our favor!! My boss phoned me today. He said, "Is everything okay at the office?" I said, "Yes, it's all under control. It's been a very busy day, I haven't stopped for a minute." "Can you do me a favour?" he asked.
Sympathetic lady owner, very experienced in dealing with family bereavement and moving into Nursing Home situations Over 10 years experience in donating recycled goods to Local Charities
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I said, "Of course, anything, what is it?" He said, "Hurry up and take your shot, I'm right behind you on the 7th hole." *******
St Peter & the cowboy A cowboy appeared before St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. "Have you ever done anything of particular merit?" St. Peter asked. "Well, I can think of one thing," the cowboy offered. "On a trip to the Black Hills out in South Dakota, I came upon a gang of bikers who were threatening a young woman. I directed them to leave her alone, but they wouldn't listen. So, I approached the largest and most tattooed biker and smacked him in the face, kicked his bike over, ripped out his nose ring, and threw it on the ground. I yelled, 'Now, back off or I'll kick the c***p out of all of you!'" St. Peter was impressed, "When did this happen?" "Couple of minutes ago."
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Bespoke curtains and blinds from design to installation Extensive range of fabrics, poles and all accessories Roller, Vertical & Venetian blinds Complete fitting service
The Old Smithy, Worcester Road Grafton Flyford, Worcs, WR7 4PW
sales@sunflower-softfurnishings.co.uk T: 0 1 9 0 5 3 8 1 8 1 1 M : 07 9 76 6 4 0 3 07
www.sunflower-softfurnishings.co.uk
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CHAMPAGNE: DISCOVERING HIDDEN GEMS Champagne has long been recognised as THE sparkling wine for celebrations, special occasions and events, for many, many years. Non-vintage champagne is very popular too, with numerous followers and devotees, and is equally enjoyable, wonderful and respected.
T
he I Love Bubbly Company is UK based and was created to discover splendid champagnes that are not widely known. Founded in 1952, the Charles Collin Champagne Company produces a range, including award-wining champagnes, with grapes being selected carefully and harvested by hand, complying with strict guidelines. I found Charles Collin Cuvée Charles Brut (80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot Noir) to be superb, with the bouquet of citrus fruits being much appreciated by the nasal senses. The mouthfeel and palate sensations continue through, for this elegant production. Charles Collin Cuvée Charles Rosé Brut (80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot Noir) is another excellent champagne from this company. Light fruits of the forest enhance an impressive bouquet and entice, splendidly, to the experience awaiting the mouth and palate. Again, the elegance is outstanding and the production is well-balanced, and a particular pleasure for al fresco dining, adding colour to the occasion. Royal Riviera Brut Suprême (70% Pinot Noir 30% Chardonnay) celebrates the Principality of Monaco and the French Riviera, most proudly. The presentation has an attractive turquoise blue label and packaging, which caught my eye. Champagne Royal Riviera The Grapevine
Brut Suprême is rich and elegant. The pale gold colour, plus the elegance, throughout the bouquet and tasting, is very impressive, with the pinot noir grapes adding to the expression of this champagne. www.royalriviera.mc www.champagne-charlescollin.com These refreshing champagnes, with wonderful perlages, are ideal as apéritifs and also to be enjoyed with a variety of cuisine. White meats, poultry, cured meats, rich fish, shellfish and many other dishes pair perfectly with these well-balanced productions. I located these champagnes, plus luxury hampers, culinary concepts, one of a kind Wearing Memories jewellery and gifts, within the ranges available from the I Love Bubbly Company. The events section, on the website, has information about their personalised services, including Mobile Champagne Bars and private events arrangements.
Tel: 44(0)7539 391 452 Email: info@ilovebubbly.com www.ilovebubbly.com As always, Enjoy! Trevor Langley
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DIRTY OVEN Hate cleaning your oven? Then let us do it for you!
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Come along to an art workshop to find out more and see what you can create! Pay As You Go Sessions: £12 inclusive of materials and refreshments Daytime and evening sessions available Next section please change the text to: Workshops are held at venues across Worcestershire and Warwickshire including Inkberrow, Pershore, Solihull, Bidford on Avon and Wellesbourne. Also offering private tuition, birthday parties and work in schools
07730 620153
For a full timetable and list of venues contact Becca to find a workshop near you. artwbecca@gmail.com or phone 07527 113 926 www.artwithbecca.com www.facebook.com/artwithbecca
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Vet Talk
with Martin Leith BVetMed MRCVS
W
ith the festive season fast approaching it is time to indulge, celebrate and fill our homes with lots of tasty treats. Unfortunately, it is only too common for our four-legged friends to join us in our Christmas celebrations and help themselves to that box of chocolates you got for Auntie Mavis because you didn’t know what else to get her.
Ho Ho Who ... HAS EATEN ALL THE CHOCOLATES!?!
‘Oh well, Auntie Mavis probably didn’t need them anyway’ I hear you say . . . but it’s not just chocolates that are dangerous for our pets. Whether it’s the kitten eating tinsel, or mince pies that go missing, there are many hidden dangers to our furry friends, from toxic foods to dangerous seasonal plants.
Vomiting and diarrhoea often follow but the main effect is damage to red blood cells and anaemia. r Artificial sweeteners contain xylitol and can result in dangerously low blood glucose levels. r Keep Christmas decorations well out of reach as cats, they particularly enjoy tinsel and baubles. r Decorative plants can also be toxic and advice should be
We have seen many potentially life threatening cases that could easily be avoided with a little extra care and these are our top tips to avoid a visit to the vets this Christmas. r Keep all edible presents under the tree out of reach until Christmas morning. Dark chocolates are particularly poisonous and can cause the most severe side effects. r Christmas pudding, cakes and mince pies can contain grapes, currants, raisins and sultanas and ingestion of even small quantities can cause severe kidney failure. r Onions and leeks are best kept on your plate and not into the tummies of your pets.
24 hour Emergency Cover 01531 632276
The Grapevine
sought if your pets come into contact with poinsettia, holly, lilies, mistletoe and even ivy. If despite your best efforts an accident with a poisonous pudding occurs or the chocolate gets chomped, we are always at the end of a phone to help with any concerns and on call if needed. Finally, everyone at Leadon Vale Veterinary Centre would like to wish our friends and patients the very best festive period and a Happy New Year!
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Have Your Elf a Merry Christmas at up shop, ready to meet the Park’s guests.
S
taff at West Midland Safari Park are busy making the last few preparations for the Christmas festivities at West Midland Safari Park, with the help of a few special guests. From 17 November and daily from 1 December, the Park is hosting its annual Santa Safari, where the big man himself, Mrs Claus and their jolly elf helpers are helping to set
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The elves have been very busy, setting up the magical grotto, planting over 350 Christmas trees and transforming the whole of the Park’s Discovery Trail, with lights, baubles and a sprinkling of ‘snow’. Additionally, they have been visiting all of their new animal neighbours and gathering some amazing stories, ready for ‘Elf Story Time’ – a brand new, interactive, story-telling show, sure to spread lots of festive cheer. Holly Ashworth, Marketing and Park Events Officer said, “We are so lucky that Santa, Mrs Claus and
all of the elves have agreed to stay with us and meet all of our lovely guests from 17 November. What’s even better, is they have also agreed to extend their stay until 30 December, so that children who may not have got the chance to see them before Christmas, can visit them after and say thank you to Santa in person.” She continued, “As well as seeing Santa, Mrs Claus has returned with her custom-built kitchen, supplying some wonderful tasty treats for our guests. The elves are extra busy this year too. As soon as they landed, Santa sent them off to become acquainted with the animals, so they could gather some amazing festive stories to tell the guests in our new Elf Story Time, which will be running on selected evenings. They have also been perfecting their secret ‘Elf Wave’, ready to show any guests that are cheeky enough to ask them! We hope everyone has a magical Christmas with us.” Santa’s visitors will be magically transported to the North Pole, where they will be able to pay a visit to the merry man himself in his grotto. Children will get a memento of their day by having a picture of themselves with Santa to
To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
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Safari Park . . . take home and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to choose their very own present in the elvesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; workshop. Additionally, children can complete their very own Santa Activity Book, watch the festive Sea Lion Show and a visit the Elf Craft Club in the Safari Academy. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Elfieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; competition where guests can take a picture with one of the merry elves, to post on Facebook for a chance to win a fabulous prize! Admission to Santa Safari also includes access to the Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four-mile self-drive Safari, where guests can spot our new baby animals (Granville the rhino, Gerald the giraffe and Grace and Gamba the zebras) and share their first Christmas with them. They can also visit the Discovery Trail, African Village, Land of the Living Dinosaurs and the new Ice Age exhibit.
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SIMON HAINES CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LTD
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Over 20 years experience
Telephone: 01386 550002 Mobile: 07971 002637
Santa Safari opens on 17 November for weekends only until 30 November and daily from 1 December until Christmas Eve. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Elf Story Timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is on selected dates only when the Park is open later to guests. Admission is ÂŁ24.00 for adults, ÂŁ20.00 for children aged 3-15 years, ÂŁ8.00 for children under the age of three and ÂŁ21.00 for concessions. Admission includes a free return ticket. Group and school discounts are also available and annual pass holders or visitors using their return voucher can upgrade to Santa Safari by booking ahead. The Adventure Theme Park is closed during the winter season.
Email: simon@shcsgroup.co.uk
Further information and tickets are available from the Santa Safari website www.santasafari.co.uk or by telephone 01299 402114. You can find out more on the Safari Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official Facebook page: www. facebook.com/WestMidSafari.
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Pick Up Your Pen! E
ven if you haven't written anything since you were at school, be brave and give the last competition for this year a try. You really have got nothing to lose – and you may be one our winners. You may even find you have a talent for writing. This competition has a Christmas theme. See if the Christmas season inspires any memories and get scribbling. See what you can do with one of these ideas:
Use the senses as much as you can. Colours, sounds, smells and textures all help to bring a story to life for the reader. The good news is that you only need to write a maximum of 250 words (three short paragraphs). Don’t worry about getting it in the right order to start with. Just get the ideas onto the paper and tidy it up later. Reward yourself for trying – and do send me the story. I love reading the stories I receive and wish we could
r A childhood memory of waking up on Christmas morning. r Write a story about playing in the snow. r Being in a nativity play. r Your biggest Christmas surprise. r New Year’s Resolutions.
publish them all. Send your entries to me at sue.r.johnson@ outlook.com by Wednesday 2nd January. I will award a small prize to the winning entry. Sue Johnson www.writers-toolkit.co.uk Congratulations to Florence Porter who is our winner of the last competition. A special mention also goes to Zoe Stephens, Christine Cameron and Valerie Wilkes for their entries.
Sue Johnson
Poet & Novelist
Creative Writing Workshops Critique Service & Talks Tel: 01386 446477 • www.writers-toolkit.co.uk
A Harvest Of Memories by Florence M Porter
0
n the apple tree at the end of the garden a blackbird was hopping between the colourful multi-shaded leaves in rich hues of red, yellow and brown searching for food. Beyond the garden hedge I saw the farmer a distance away, manoeuvring back and forth creating deep furrows of rich dark patterns in the earth, which had been a golden living sea of ripe corn wafting in the breeze such a short time ago. In the corner of the field I saw stacked square straw blocks as high as the distant barn in neat tidy rows, looking like a wall.
The Grapevine
My thoughts drifted back to my childhood, remembering the joy and fun we had when the corn was harvested. My cousins and I played in the stoops of corn that were stacked at intervals. We would each choose our stoop and scrabble into its centre, playing make-believe. Mine was a palace. I was a princess. One of the stoops near me was an Indian tepee, the other a fort. The sound of ‘bang, bang’ was exchanged between them as they defended their stoops - one as Hop-Along Cassidy, the other Sitting Bull. The stoop opposite was a big house, with two younger siblings playing at being grown-ups with their new baby (a ragdoll).
Our make believe ended when the big, gentle farm horse plodded nearer. We watched the men pick and throw the stoops high to the man who stood on top of the stacked cart. The horse pulled our palace, fort, tepee and house away. Sadly, the stoops no longer exist and children are no longer seen playing make-believe as we did eighty years ago. Children of today have so much – at a touch. But they don’t feel the wind in their hair, the sunshine glowing on their face, the smell of the new harvest as we did – or feel the magic of make-believe using their own imagination.
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Ourside Youth Centre Evesham
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roviding a safe and welcoming space for anyone aged 11 to 19, offering open access sessions alongside targeted youth work. Sessions running each week providing everything from pool tables, games and social space to support such as; mental health, sexual health advice, careers advice, drugs and substance awareness or just a friendly face.
Sandie Davis CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST MEMBER OF THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS COUNCIL ACUPUNCTURE ASSOCIATION OF CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
Telephone No: 01386 304653 Mobile No: 07930 162546 Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arcade, Pershore, WR10 1DP www.sandiedavisphysiotherap\.co.uk
Early assessment and treatment can lead to a quick recovery! Recognised by most main insurance providers.
Wednesday 6.30pm to 8.30pm Junior Open Access (11-13) Thursday 6.30pm to 8.30pm Senior Open Access (13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 19) Ourside was founded for young people by young people. We understand the importance of having a place to go that you can rely on with someone to talk to who listens.
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Ourside Youth Centre Broadway Road, Evesham, WR11 1BH 01386 852919 info@ourside.org.uk www.ourside.org.uk Manor Farm, Abberton, Worcs, WR10 2NR abbertonangus@talktalk.net abbertonaberdeenangus.co.uk An exclusive Shepherds Hut hand made from a single ash tree blown down on the farm many years ago. The Ć&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ć&#x;ŽŜÄ&#x201A;ĹŻ Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x161; Ć?Ä&#x17E;ĆŤĹśĹ? with wood burner and Ä?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ?ŽŜÇ&#x2021; Ĺ˝Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ůŽŽŏĹ?ĹśĹ? Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ÄŽĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E; pit and views of Bredon hill help create the surprise of the modern luxury within from the plush shower ensuite, kitchen, electric blankets and TV. Glamping luxury for 2 adults and 2 children locally. ŽŽŏ Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x161; for Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć&#x161; Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ at www.abbertonaberdeenangus.co.uk. See reviews on Cool Camping/Airbnb/TripAdvisor. Contact Catriona Sutherland.
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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Two become one as Worcestershire accountancy firms merge
W
orcester-based CB Chartered Accountants has merged with Haines Watts as part of the national accountancy firm’s ongoing expansion plans. The deal will see Haines Watts welcome a new partner, CB Chartered Accountants founder and Managing Partner John Painter, and his team of ten. Chris Hobbs, CB’s former Tax Partner, will take on the role of Tax Consultant.
CB’s offices in Worcester and Tewkesbury will be rebranded with the office in Tewkesbury becoming Haines Watts’ first permanent base in Gloucestershire. Tim Pearce, Managing Partner of Haines Watts Worcester, said: “We’re delighted to be joining forces with John and his team. “We’ve known each other for many years and I trained with John and Chris from 2002 to 2005, right at the start of my accountancy career. As soon as I knew that a deal with them was possible, I was determined to make it happen. It feels like I’ve come full circle.” “The merger is good news for local businesses as we’ll continue to offer outstanding customer service to existing and new clients and are looking forward to building the Haines Watts brand in Worcester, Evesham and Tewkesbury.” A top 15 accountancy firm, Haines Watts prides itself on supporting business owners by providing hands on accountancy, taxation and business advice. It works alongside a range of businesses across
many sectors including healthcare, leisure and manufacturing and, like CB, specialises in working with family-owned businesses. John Painter added: “Working with Tim and his colleagues is a strong step forward as it secures the quality of advice that our clients are looking for. As an accredited Mindshop facilitator I look forward to working with existing Haines Watts clients to help them grow and develop their own businesses.” As a result of the deal, Haines Watts Senior Manager James Howard and his CB counterpart Dan Jackson have been promoted to Associates while Client Manager Gareth Williams has been promoted to Cloud and Outsourcing Manager and Zoe Jones to Practice Manager. photo: Haines Watts Worcester Partner John Painter and Managing Partner Tim Pearce
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Our OurOur partners Our partners partners partners will willwork will work willwork work with with with you with youyou toyou toensure ensure totoensure ensure you youyou have you have have ahave aplan plan a aplan to plan toachieve achieve totoachieve achieve goals. goals. goals. goals. or or knowing knowing or or knowing knowing your your your retirement your retirement retirement retirement is is secure. secure. is is secure. secure. Our Our Our partners Our partners partners partners will will work will work will work work with with with you with you you to you to ensure ensure to to ensure ensure you you you have you have have a have a plan plan a a plan to plan to achieve achieve to to achieve achieve your your your goals. your goals. goals. goals. ororknowing knowing ororknowing knowing your your your retirement your retirement retirement retirement isissecure. secure. isissecure. secure. 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Worcester. Worcester. Worcester. WR1 WR1 WR1 WR1 3DB 3DB 3DB 3DB -local -01905 01905 -local -01905 01905 612347 612347 612347 612347 worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com Britannia Britannia Britannia Britannia Court, Court, Court, Court, Moor Moor Moor Moor Street, Street, Street, Street, Worcester. Worcester. Worcester. Worcester. WR1 WR1 WR1 WR1 3DB 3DB 3DB 3DB -- --01905 01905 -- --01905 01905 612347 612347 612347 612347 worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com Britannia Britannia Britannia Britannia Court, Court, Court, Court, Moor Moor Moor Moor Street, Street, Street, Street, Worcester. Worcester. Worcester. Worcester. WR1 WR1 WR1 WR1 3DB 3DB 3DB 3DB 01905 01905 01905 01905 612347 612347 612347 612347 worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com worcester@hwca.com Vale Vale Vale Vale Business Business Business Business Centre, Centre, Centre, Centre, 9 9 Abbey Abbey 9 9 Abbey Abbey Lane Lane Lane Lane Court, Court, Court, Court, Evesham. Evesham. Evesham. Evesham. WR11 WR11 WR11 WR11 4BY 4BY 4BY 4BY - -01386 01386 - -01386 01386 579999 579999 579999 579999 evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com The Grapevine 31 Vale Vale Vale Vale Business Business Business Business Centre, Centre, Centre, Centre, 9 9 Abbey Abbey 9 9 Abbey Abbey Lane Lane Lane Lane Court, Court, Court, Court, Evesham. Evesham. Evesham. Evesham. WR11 WR11 WR11 WR11 4BY 4BY 4BY 4BY 01386 01386 01386 01386 579999 579999 579999 579999 evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com Vale Business Centre, Abbey Lane Court, Evesham. WR11 4BY 01386 579999 evesham@hwca.com Vale Vale Vale Business Business Business Centre, Centre, Centre, 99Abbey 99Abbey Abbey Lane Lane Lane Court, Court, Court, Evesham. Evesham. Evesham. WR11 WR11 WR11 4BY 4BY 4BY 01386 01386 01386 579999 579999 579999 evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com evesham@hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com www.hwca.com
White Chocolate, Orange & Cranberry Christmas Cake Why not try sponge instead of fruit cake this Christmas? This white chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser and you can buy the meringue decorations, or bake them yourself. /E'Z / Ed^
For the cake 300g salted butter, chopped 200g white chocolate , finely chopped 500g plain flour 4 tsp baking powder 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 500g white caster sugar 300ml natural yogurt 4 tsp vanilla extract 1 large orange , zested and juiced 6 large eggs 4 tbsp milk For the compote 200g cranberries 150g white caster sugar For the icing 200g white chocolate, finely chopped 500g salted butter , softened 750g icing sugar, sifted 280g cream cheese To decorate meringue kisses (shop-bought, or home made *), edible snowflake decorations and gold leaf (optional) * see recipe on the next page Serves 20
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METHOD
y Heat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Rub a little butter over the base and sides of two 20cm cake tins (use cake tins rather than sandwich tins as the higher sides work better), then line the base and sides with baking parchment. y Melt 150g butter with 100g of the chocolate in a bowl set over a small saucepan of gently simmering water – make sure the base of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the butter and chocolate every minute or so until it has melted. Set aside to cool a little. y Meanwhile, measure 250g flour, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp bicarb and 250g sugar in a large bowl. y Make a well in the middle and add 150g yogurt, 2 tsp vanilla extract, half the orange zest and juice, 3 eggs and 2 tbsps milk. Whisk everything together, then stir in the melted butter and chocolate. y When the cake mixture is smooth (this makes a very wet, pourable batter), divide it equally between the two cake tins. y Bake on the middle shelf for 25 to 30 minutes - they will look golden and evenly risen when cooked. Check they are done by pushing a skewer into the centre of the cakes – it should come out clean. If there is any wet cake mixture on the skewer, return the cake to the oven for a few more mins, then check again.
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y Leave the cakes to cool in their tins for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. y Wash out the tins and make two more sponges, using the remaining cake ingredients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; four cakes in total. (you can make them a day or two before icing, then wrap them in a double layer of cling film once cool - they can also be frozen for up to two months.) y To make the compote: Simmer the cranberries and sugar in a small pan for 4 to 5 minutes until jammy, then leave to cool. y For the icing: Melt the chocolate, either in 20 to 30 second bursts in a microwave or in a bowl over simmering water. Set aside to cool a little. Roughly mash the butter and icing sugar together, then beat until smooth with an electric mixer. Add the chocolate and cream cheese and beat again until smooth. y To assemble the cake: Place one sponge on a cake board the same size as the sponge, then
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sandwich the other sponges on top with a little icing and the cranberry compote. Use the cake with the neatest edge, flipped upside down, on top to give your cake a good shape. y Pile about half the remaining icing on top of the cake and use a palette knife to spread it thinly over the top and down the sides of the cake. (this is a crumb coat - it catches any crumbs, ensuring the final layer looks clean and professional.) y Chill the cake for 10 to 20 minutes to firm up the icing or leave it somewhere cool for longer. y Once the icing is firm, use the remaining icing to give the cake another coat, using a palette knife to give a clean smooth finish. Chill again for another 10 to 20 minutes. Will keep for three days. y To decorate the cake: Dot the top with meringue kisses, edible snowflake decorations and gold leaf, if you like.
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Meringue Kisses Make these meringue kisses to decorate the White Chocolate, Orange & Cranberry Christmas Cake
METHOD
y Heat oven to 120°C/100°C fan/gas ½. y Line two or three baking sheets with parchment paper. y Beat the egg whites until they are foamy and doubled in size. y Add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while you continue to whisk. The meringue will become thick and glossy and should hold up in stiff peaks on the beaters when it is ready. y Fit a disposable piping bag with a 1cm round or star nozzle. /E'Z / Ed^
2 egg whites 200g white caster sugar red food colouring paste 50g dark chocolate, melted edible glitter or lustre powder (available from www.cakecraft company.com) Makes about 25 mini meringues
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y Hold it vertically to the baking sheet and gently squeeze, pulling the bag up and away to make a peak. If you are making frosty icicles, make some meringue dots as well. y For colour-striped meringues, fit a disposable piping bag with a round nozzle, paint red food colouring paste in stripes onto the inside of the bag, then fill with meringue and pipe as before. y Bake for 1 hour. y Once cool, drizzle some of the meringues with melted chocolate and sprinkle with edible glitter or lustre powder.
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What's on ... in December & January Thurs 29th November to Sun 2nd December Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre Plenty of Victorian themed characters, festive treats and a wonderful atmosphere. Almost 200 stalls selling local arts and crafts, delicious street food and gifts and a fantastic programme of entertainment. There really is something for everyone and we hope you have a wonderful time! Free Entry. Thurs 29th 12noon to 9pm; Fri 30th 11am to 9pm; Sat 1st 10am to 8pm; Sun 2nd 11am to 5pm. Worcester City Centre, WR1 2EY.
Wednesday 12th December Pershore Jazz Club Enrico Tomasso Hot Five. The first visit to Pershore by the trumpet maestro Enrico Tomasso. Ably supported by Keith Nichols, “Spats” Langham, Trevor Whiting and Nick Ward. Christmas special with fish and chips. Please note: entrance is ticket only. Starts at 8.00pm in Pershore Town Football Club’s Function Room, King George’s Way, WR10 1QU. £15 entry, inc. free raffle. Tel: 01527 66692 or 01386 554235. www.pershorejazz.org.uk
Friday 7th & Saturday 8th December 'A Concert For Winter' Celebrated SSSAA vocal quintet 'Excelsa Voces' present 2 concerts of music with a winter theme. Described as 'sublime & ethereal', and renowned for their unique progammes mixing medieval chant with contemporary music, an Excelsa Voces concert is an immersive experience. Recent triumphs include Edinburgh Festival and a Robert Fripp premiere at Tewkesbury Abbey; and last year's candlelit concert in Overbury was sold out, so book early! Tickets from Paula (0770 9953475) or www.excelsavoces.com. Friday 7th December, 7.30pm at The Guild Chapel, Stratford upon Avon. Saturday 8th December, 7.30pm at St Faith's Church, Overbury.
Sat 15th to Mon 17th & Wed 19th to Sun 23rd December Jack and the Beanstalk! Merrydale is terrorised by a Giant Blunderbore and his henchman. Dame Trott and her sons have to sell their cow Daisy, but Jack is tricked by Fleshcreep and returns home with a bag of beans instead of gold, Dame Trott throws the beans out of the window. Jack’s girlfriend, Jill has been captured and taken to the Giant's castle. To rescue Jill Jack must climb a giant beanstalk which has appeared overnight - will they escape down the beanstalk to safety and a happy ending? Sat & Sun 2pm & 7pm. Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri 7pm. Tickets available online or from Box Office: 01527 577330. Artrix Theatre, Slideshow Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1GN. www.artrix.co.uk
Saturday 8th December Hardy Plant Society Worcestershire Group – ‘Snowdrops and other Winter Bulbs’ Jim Almond has been interested in dwarf bulbs for over 30 years and has been collecting snowdrops for the past 20 years. Plant sales, raffle and refreshments available. Visitors welcome at £3. 2pm Crowle Parish Hall, WR7 4AZ. (Talk follows members’ Christmas lunch at 12.30pm). www. worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk Saturday 8th December Handel’s Messiah at Worcester Cathedral Worcester Festival Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah, in the majestic setting of Worcester Cathedral. Performing with the 150 members of Worcester Festival Choral Society are Hannah Grove (soprano), Kate Symonds-Joy (alto), Ben Thapa (tenor), James Cleverton (bass) and the Meridian Sinfonia. 7.30pm to 9.45pm. Tickets £10 - £25 from www.worcesterfestivalchoralsociety. org.uk and Worcester Live Box Office, tel: 01905 611427. Worcester Cathedral, 8 College Yard, Worcester, WR1 2LA.
3636
Sunday 16th December 'PIANOSCAPES 10' Pershore-based pianist Chris Long presents this engaging monthly Sunday afternoon piano concert 'for adventurous listeners'. Previous programmes have included music ranging from Bach, Brahms and Brubeck to Radiohead, Pink Floyd, John Cage and by Chris himself; this last one for 2018 will have some seasonal moments amongst the usual eclectic mix. Starts 2.30pm. Informal, friendly and relaxed, with excellent cake served as well! More information at www.chrislongmusic.co.uk. St. Andrew's Centre, Pershore WR10 1DT. Tickets £8 from Blue (19 Broad Street, Pershore) or contact Chris directly via his website. Saturday 22nd December Carols in the Park West Midlands Police band and singers from Astwood Bank Operatic Society celebrate Christmas with carol singing. If all of the children attending this festive event have been well behaved during the year, we may get a visit from
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a certain special person. Free event with mulled wine and mince pies - we ask for donations on the night to make sure we can continue to run these events. 4.30pm to 6pm. Astwood Bank Park, Astwood Bank, B96 6DS.
materials and equipment provided with a pause for lunch - also provided. Places on this workshop are limited to 8. Price per person £75. Tel: 07935 208403. Three Little Pigs, The Avenue, Birlingham, Nr Pershore, WR10 3AB.
Sunday 30th December Grand Whist Drive & Raffle Venue Astwood Bank Club - Redditch area (B96 6AS). 4pm. Admission £2 includes guaranteed whist prize win. To reserve your seat and details tel: 01527 893421
Saturday 12th January Hardy Plant Society Worcestershire Group ‘Plants for the Connoisseur’ Simon Gulliver is a Garden Consultant for the National Trust, following 10 years at Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens. He will talk about his favourite plants that are a little different, plus how to grow and enjoy them. Raffle and refreshments available. Visitors welcome at £3. 2pm Crowle ParishHall, WR7 4AZ. www.worcs-hardy-plant.org.uk
Saturday 5th January Gala Concert with the Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra Welcome in the New Year with the Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra and their traditional New Year’s Gala Concert. A wonderful selection including Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker and world famous waltzes, polkas and marches with music by Strauss and others. Tickets at the door, from Tourist Information Centres (Pershore, Worcester, Malvern) or from Blue, Broad Street, Pershore. Cost: £12; admission free for children. Season tickets available. Online tickets: www.ticketsource. co.uk/worcesterphilharmonic orchestra Tel: 01905 353013. Pershore Abbey, Pershore, WR10 1DT. Monday 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th January Whist Drive Try any two Monday night's Whist in January for "free admission". 6.30pm. Astwood Bank Club Redditch area (B96 6AS). For details tel: 01527 893421. Friday 11th to Sunday 13th January Christmas Tree Collection Suppport St Richard's Hospice by having your real trtee collected and recycled for a donation towards our care. Check online by putting in your postcode to see if we are collecting in your area. Register your tree online with a donation to support our care. Register your tree by 9th January 2019. All day. Tel: 01905 763963. https://www. strichards.org.uk/?s=Christmas+tree+collection Saturday 12th January Mosaic Workshop Explore the ancient world of mosaic and make your own beautiful mosaic panel to treasure for years to come. No drawing or artistic skills required. Your highly talented tutor will guide you through the processes. 10am to 4pm. All the
Wednesday 30th January Pershore Jazz Club John Hallam & Art Themen Quintet. The everpopular reeds jazz musician, John Hallam, is joined with a rare visit to Pershore by Art Themen, saxophonist. Art has been on the British Jazz scene for more than 40 years and has toured worldwide and played and recorded with many US and British luminaries. Starts at 8.00pm in Pershore Town Football Club’s Function Room, King George’s Way, WR10 1QU. £10.00 entry, inc. free raffle. Tel: 01527 66692 or 01386 554235. www. pershorejazz.org.uk Worcester Ramblers Festival of Winter Walks Come and join us in the “outdoor gym”. Enjoy the company and walking in the fresh air, lead by experienced leaders. Non members welcome. For details go to: www.worcesterramblers.org.uk December Thurs 27th - Collets Green, 10 miles, Anne Woods Fri 28th - Spetchley Sparkle - 5 miles - Helen and Martyn Moore Sun 30th - Winter Walking, Martley - 7 Miles Jane Verduyn January Wed 2nd - Stourport on Severn - 6 miles - Mandy Heal Thur 3rd - Chaddesley Corbett - 5.5 miles - Lynda Jackson Fri 4th - Old Hills, Callow End - 6.5 miles - Heather Fraser Sat 5th – Ombersley - 8 miles - Kath Palfrey Sun 6th- Late start - Wandon Winter Wander 5.5miles - Lyndon Bracewell
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3737
Here's How to Eat Less Sugar
I
f you want to quickly pack on a few pounds then eat lots of refined sugar. Oh, wait, why would you want to do that? Let’s eat less sugar, instead, and watch the weight effortlessly slide off… We’ve been eating more and more sugar over the past 200 years, which has led to rising obesity numbers. Back in 1822 the average person ate only 0.45 kgs of sugar per year, compared to 59 kgs of sugar in 2012. That’s more than 20 times as much sugar in our modern diet! No wonder we are bigger than ever… One of the reasons that your diet is filled with so much sugar is that some form of refined sugar is included in virtually every single processed food. This is yet another reason that it’s important to cut those processed and packaged convenience foods out of your diet. Cutting sugar from your diet is easier said than done. Once it is a
38
part of your daily diet, cravings strike, causing you to eat it even more frequently. But there is hope. Here are several ways to eat less of that sugar that you’re eating that’s killing your results and keeping you from attaining your ideal body: Eat More Protein A diet rich in protein keeps you full, satisfied and less likely to crave sweets. A great way to make sure that you are getting enough is to plan each meal and snack around a protein. Plan breakfast around eggs, lunch and dinner around baked chicken breast, and make snacks hardboiled eggs or baked meatballs. Avoid Artificial Sweeteners One of the biggest fitness myths out there is the idea that caloriefree, artificially sweetened beverages don’t impact your fat loss results. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the truth is that the diet soda you’re sipping is
making it harder for you to reach your goal weight. While the diet soda itself doesn’t contain calories, it has been proven to cause cravings for sugary foods. Put down the diet soda and instead pick up a refreshing bottle of spring water. Steer Clear Of Saboteurs The sad truth is that people in your life will try to sabotage your low sugar diet. You’ll run into that pushy person at the office who insists that you eat a cake, the wellmeaning family member who dishes you up a bowl of ice cream, and the friend who comes over with a plate of her home-baked cookies. The best avoidance strategy is to sincerely thank the sugar-pusher for their gift, tell them you wish you could eat it, and then blame me – your fitness mentor – as the bad person who says that you need to cut back on sugar. Try Dark Chocolate For those moments when your sweet tooth is relentlessly
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badgering you for something sweet, ditch the super-sugary sweets and stick with a small square of very dark chocolate. Chocolate that is 80% or higher in cocoa content should be the only sweet that you keep on hand. The benefit of the cocoa, in addition to the lowered sugar content, makes dark chocolate an occasionally justifiable treat. Stick With Fruit What’s sweet, colourful and comes in hundreds of flavours? Organic, seasonal, fresh fruit, of course! As you remove refined sugar from your life, feel free to add in some natural sugar by way of fresh, local fruit. It’s amazing how satisfyingly sweet fruit is – it’s truly nature’s sweets. Change Your Palate As you begin to limit your intake of refined sugars, you’ll find that your tolerance for sugar decreases. This means that something that didn’t taste sweet before – say a green apple – now has uncanny depths of sweetness. What’s happening is that your sweet receptors are becoming more finely tuned, now that you’re not overwhelming your palate with sickly-sweet refined sugar.
Make challenging, consistent exercise a part of your life by signing up for our 6 week transformation programme. I’d love to get you to your goals using our results-driven method. For more information on the services we provide, or if you’d like to take part in our next 6 week
transformation, then please take a look at our website www.almfitness. co.uk or email amy@almfitness.co. uk and I’ll be more than happy to help.
Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas and a Fit & Healthy 2019
Workout Like You Mean It A regular, challenging exercise routine will not only get you into amazing shape, it also reduces your cravings for sugar. The endorphin rush brought on by vigorous exercise is an even more powerful feel-good-feeling than the pleasure gotten by indulging in sugary foods. The Grapevine
39
Creating Your Garden Paradise ĂƌƟĐůĞ ďLJ :ŽŶĂƚŚĂŶ ŝƐŚŽƉ
Movement in the Garden T
here are various options for getting movement into a garden, some are really obvious like a water feature, others are really more subtle such as encouraging wildlife in for, example birds, butterflies, etc., that can also bring the element of movement in. Plants are another instrument for bringing movement into a
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garden, the movement of leaves and the resulting rustling sounds they can bring, for example bamboo blowing in the wind, is an excellent way of bringing movement into a very small space. Water features are a good option. You don’t necessarily have to install a pond to create a water feature, just water
bubbling over a stone creates a rippling sound and promotes a relaxing environment. This is a cheap option with just some outside power needed. In turn, a pond with a waterfall can bring in birds as they will be encouraged to come in and bathe, bringing additional movement into a garden. The Japanese are experts in using the element of water in a garden and have a tipping water feature called a Deer Scarer, which is a bamboo chute that fills up with water from a pump and when full tips back and knocks against a rock. Giving movement and sound but not all the time. Increasing wildlife into a garden is reasonably easy: you can feed the animals to bring them in, i.e. birds, or create an environment for them to breed and nest, such as bird boxes. However, having a cat or a pet in a garden would have a detrimental effect on attempting this. If you are really restricted for space and large rustling leaves
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aren't really an option, but you still have some planting in the garden, putting things like windmills, wind chimes, suspended mobiles, etc. can bring in sound and movement. Nowadays you can also get things that move and are operated by sunlight. Solar powered ornaments such as fluttering butterflies will rotate when the sun shines on the power cell making it flutter and move around. These are only a few pounds to buy from a garden centre, but will add some interest reasonably easily and cheaply into a very still garden. Planting: I have already mentioned bamboos as a way of adding movement, but some trees have the same effect. Anything with large leaves that
can be caught by the breeze will obviously move around, for example an Indian Bean Tree (Catalpa bignonioides).
and give the visual appearance that the tree has been given a second life.
Alternatively you can bring dead wood back to life, for example if you have a dead tree in the garden, rather than taking it out you could grow a vine up it. When the tendrils develop and hang off it they will then move around in the wind and make the space look alive again.
If you have a pond then adding some reeds around the outside will contribute to movement when it is windy. Obviously make sure you get the correct ones, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want something that is going to take over the pond or the roots are going to puncture the liner or base of the pond.
This can also be done with a rose, a good strong climbing rose, a Kiftsgate or a Rambling Rector. These are very big climbing roses that will scramble up a dead tree and easily take over. Another variety is a Banksia Rose which is a non prickly and highly scented rose. Any of these varieties will clamber all over the dead wood
If you have a straight forward flower bed and you want to create some movement in there, some fine grasses strategically placed around would be a good recommendation. These will give the impression that they are almost floating and moving around amongst the plants when there is a breeze.
If you have an upcoming event please let me know. If you have a problem in the garden then please contact me and I will do my best to answer your questions. Are you interested in Foliation looking at any aspects of your garden from hard to soft landscaping, small to big projects? Get in touch with your questions or WR GLVFXVV \RXU JDUGHQ SURMHFW FDOO P\ RIĂ&#x20AC;FH QXPEHU RU HPDLO MRQDWKDQ#IROLDWLRQ FR XN Foliation Ltd 44 Â? Lakeside Â? Newent Â? Glocestershire Â? */ 6= The Grapevinewww.foliation.co.uk )ROORZ PH RQ 7ZLWWHU #-RQ%LVKRS
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SUDOKU Fill in the blank squares so that each line, each row and each mini square contains the numbers 1 - 9 without duplicating the same number in any row, line or square
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BACKWARDS
Cross out some of the squares in a symmetrical pattern to make a completed crossword that matches the clues given. Watch out - the clues aren't in the right order!
Across
Down
Speck
Cocktail fruit
Second-hand
Chummy
Peace pact
Piece of furniture
Naked figures
Large cat
Merger
Pair
Reverberate
Curve
Playing area
Play a guitar
Scuffle
Difficult
Wager
Consumed
D
Send
Russian ruler
Ship's overhaul
Large dog
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Merriment
Relaxation
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Terminus
Age
African antelope
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Light beer
Sheep
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Hive dwellers
Unit of length
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1.
CHRISTMAS TRIVIA
NUMBER WORKOUT
(answers on page 50)
Fit the numbers 1-6 once in every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
After leaving Bethlehem, to which country did
Joseph, Mary, and Jesus travel?
1 2
2. How does Santa Claus go back up the chimney to continue his journey of delivering gifts?
5 3 6
3. What are the four colours most associated with Christmas? 4. What snack is traditionally left out for Father Christmas?
3
1
5. When does the Russian Orthodox Church celebrate Christmas?
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6. In the carol, “Jingle Bells,” what kind of a sleigh is mentioned?
8. Which is the most famous Christmas ballet of all time?
3 4
1 6
9. Which Christmas carol’s second verse begins with “The cattle are lowing”?
4 1
3 2
10. Of all the popular Christmas songs, which is the best-selling single of all time?
12. What would you be drinking if you had ‘Glühwein’?
KAKURO Fill in the blank squares, ensuring that the numbers add up to the number in the grey box to the left of the row or above the line. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used and no number can be repeated in the same row or line.
13. Which type of tree was the partridge sitting in, according to a well-known Christmas song?
13
16
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14. When was the first Christmas card sent? Who designed it?
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10
15. How do you say “Merry Christmas” in Spanish?
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16. What are three other names for Father Christmas?
19. Where did the Nativity take place? 20. Is there a Mrs. Santa Claus? The Grapevine
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28 22 12 24
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17. Which country was the first to use the tradition of Christmas trees? 18. How many days do we have between Christmas and the Epiphany?
1
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7. On the tenth day of Christmas, what does my true love give to me?
11. Which of Santa’s reindeer is named after another animal?
6 2
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VETS & ANIMAL CARE (9(6+$0 %RZOHU /HZLV 3DUWQHUV Tel: 01386 442804 3(56+25( 0DUWLQ &DUU Tel: 01386 553631
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The last summer Tenants I
’ve bid a fond farewell to my wasps. They have been our constant companions all through the summer and what interesting house mates they have been. I shall miss the ‘purring’ sound they made when cooling their nest, wings of the occupants all thrumming at once. We would look up and half expect the Cheshire cat from Alice in Wonderland to be grinning down on us. Friends and visitors gave dire warnings that our wasps would turn on us in some Hitchcock “Birds” type scenario; I even had to stand guard over a friend doing some work in the porch using power tools. The wasps didn’t so much as bother to come and check out what was going on.
collected from an outside rail and made into pulp. The result was something resembling a wave that had been turned to stone; fascinating and beautiful. Now they have all died except for the new queens who have been seeking places to hibernate in the house; I have gently escorted them to the open window not wishing a repeat of my hornet experience when I get into bed one night next spring, only to be stung by a sleepy queen wasp. When they awake they will begin the cycle of wasp life once more playing their part, however small, in the maintenance of life on this planet. Like the wasp colony the old year is dying. 2018 will, like all the years
before it, go out in a blaze of human over-consumption, from Halloween, Black Friday and finally the 25th of December. And then comes the eternal problem: what to do with those unwanted, unneeded purchases and presents and how to dispose of Halloween plastic costumes most of which can’t be recycled. In October The World Wildlife Fund reported that sixty percent of nature has been lost. This is worrying not least because nature gives us the air we breathe, food and medicines. And yet we are so careless with our natural world so quick to destroy the one thing we really do need. article & photographs by Geraldine Woods-Humphrey
‘You wait until September, they’ll get nasty then.’ we were told. September came and went and cordial relations between human and wasp were maintained despite the possibilities of insect intoxication from fermenting windfall apples. They did not see us as a danger. We didn’t bother them, and they didn’t bother us. So successful were these busy, gardeners’ friends, that by late summer they were beginning to construct an annex along the top of the kitchen window, a beautifully sculptured piece made from wood, tinyThe slivers of which were largely Grapevine
45
PERSHORE TREE OF LIGHTS 2018
Remember a Loved One By supporting the Pershore Rotary Tree of Lights Appeal
In 2017 the people of Pershore raised £3,731 through the Pershore Rotary Tree of Lights. This year, with your help, we are supporting:
Acorns Children’s Hospice, Midlands Air Ambulance and Arthritis Research UK If you would like to remember a loved one by sponsoring a light on the tree and having their name displayed, please complete this form in CAPITAL letters and send it with your donation to the address below, or donate online at www.pershoretreeoflights.com. Your Name _____________________________________________________________________ First line of your address __________________________________________________________ Postcode _______________________________________________________________________ I wish to remember the life/lives of:
(names clearly and in BLOCK CAPITALS please)
I enclose a cheque for £____________ made payable to “The Rotary Club of Pershore”. We suggest £5 for each life remembered, and please send it to Rotarian Peter Gardner, Middle Cottage, Church Street, Wyre Piddle, WR10 2JD. Please boost your donation by 25p of gift aid, for every £1.00 you donate by confirming in writing your name and date below. Thank you. I want to gift aid my donation. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less income tax and/or Capital Gains Tax in a current tax year than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations it is my responsibility to pay any difference.
Name: _________________________________________
Date: ___________________
The Tree of Lights Appeal will continue throughout the Christmas period. The list of those commemorated, will be shown online and on rolling screens in the windows of both Baldwins Accountants at 31 Broad Street and Clifton-Crick Sharp & Co. at 40 High Street to whom we extend our grateful thanks. Personal information is only used for this appeal and for Gift Aid (if applicable). It is not shared with any other party.
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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Pershore Rotary’s
‘Tree of Lights’ Appeal 2018
P
ershore Rotary is once again supporting a ‘Tree of Lights’ appeal in memory of a loved one this Christmas, with the money raised being donated to local charities. In 2017, due to the generosity of the people of Pershore and its surrounding villages over £3,700 was raised for the Acorns Hospice and the Midlands Air Ambulance. This year we hope to do even better and make donations to Acorns, Midlands Air Ambulance and Arthritis Research UK. The appeal is open to all so, whether you are an individual, family or business wanting to remember a loved one, valued employee etc, then please complete the form and send it with your donation to the address shown.
9DOH &KLURSUDFWLF Emily Freeman
MChiro, PCAC, MMCA, LRCC
Treating People & Free Initial Animals Consultation worth th £15
The Lodge The Vale Golf & Country Club Hill Furze Road, Bishampton, Pershore WR10 2LZ 07909 861058 01386 462189 valechiropractic@hotmail.com
ZZZ YDOHFKLURSUDFWLF FRP
A list of those remembered will be shown online and on rolling screens throughout the Christmas period in the windows of both Baldwins Accountants at 31 Broad Street, Pershore and Clifton-Crick Sharp & Co. at 40 High Street, Pershore. If you would like to know more about Rotary in the Pershore area, please contact:
Bob Marchant .........................................................
bobmarchant@uwclub.net 07850 996732
The Grapevine
47
The Arrogance of Authority!! A DEA officer stopped at a ranch in Texas, and spoke to an old rancher.
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He told the rancher, "I need to inspect your ranch for illegally grown drugs." The rancher said, "Okay, but don't go in that field over there", as he pointed out the location. The DEA officer verbally exploded saying, "Mister, I have the authority of the Federal Government with me!" Reaching into his back pocket, he removed his badge and proudly displayed it to the rancher. "See this badge?! This badge means I am allowed to go wherever I wish . . . on any land!! No questions asked or answers given!! Have I made myself clear . . . do you understand ?!!" The rancher nodded politely, apologized, and went about his chores. A short time later, the old rancher heard loud screams, looked up, and saw the DEA officer running for his life, being chased by the rancher's big Santa Gertrudis bull.
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With every step the bull was gaining ground on the officer, and it seemed likely that he'd sure enough get gored before he reached safety. The officer was clearly terrified. The rancher threw down his tools, ran to the fence and yelled at the top of his lungs, "Your badge, show him your BADGE!!" *******
Anyone for golf . . . ?? A golfer teed up his ball on the first tee, took a mighty swing and hit his ball into a clump of trees. He found his ball and saw an opening between two trees he thought he could hit through. Taking out his 3-wood, he took a mighty swing. The ball hit a tree, bounced back, hit him in the forehead and killed him. As he approached the gates of Heaven, St. Peter asked, "Are you a good golfer?" The man replied: "Got here in two, didn't I?
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Pinvin, Pershore
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Index of Advertisers Accountants Haines Watts
31
Aerials & TV Services Digital TV Systems
28
Boiler Services Johnston Scotia
35
Building & Construction Simon Haines Construction 25 Butcher LDA Meats of Pershore Carpenter 1138 Careative Carpentry Carpets & Beds Carpets Direct Coal Merchants A W Parker
26 2 25 16
Computing & IT Services Pendas CS Ltd 15 Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows Glassier Malvern Glass Decorators & Painters A Job 4 John Aztec Painting & Decorating CR Decorating Driveways & Paving Castle Paving
3 8 28 48 4 8 12
Education & Courses Art with Becca 22 Writer's Toolkit 18 & 29 Electricians Craig Merchant Electrical Marchwood Maintenance
19 25
Estate Agents Humberts
12
Fencing Luke's Fencing Services
4
Funeral Directors E Hill & Son
2
Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair Italian Garden Designer Luke's Garden Maintenance Luke's Fencing Services Phil Day Sports
19 2 4 4 16
Haberdashery & Material The Fabrik Shop 4 Handyman A Job 4 John
48
Health & Beauty ALM Fitness Sandie Davis Physiotherapy Sweeney Todd Vale Chiropractic
38 30 9 47
Heating & Plumbing Johnston Scotia
35
Holiday Accommodation Abberton Shepherd's Hut 30 House Clearance Barbara's House Clearance Interior Design & Soft Furnishings Sunflower Soft Furnishings Kitchens Dream Doors
20
20 5
Locksmiths Alcester Locks
47
Oven Cleaning Ovenclean Profesional Oven Cleaners
19 22
Painters & Decorators A Job 4 John Aztec Painting & Decorating CR Decorating
48 4 8
Pershore Retail Market Index of Businesses Christmas at Pershore Market
51 52
Pet Care Barking Mad Leadon Vale Vets
15 & 48 23
Plumbing & Heating Johnston Scotia
35
Recipes of the Month White Chocolate Christmas Cake 32 Meringue Kisses 34 Roofing Services W.S.S. Roofing
13
Security Sharp Alarms Specialised Security Systems
16 22
Shoes Humphries
19
Solicitors Thomson Bancks
17
Trust & Estate Planning Bees & Co
12
Windows, Doors & Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows Glassier Malvern Glass
3 8 28
Gardening & Landscaping Cut Above the Rest 15 Foliation 40 The Grapevine
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Answers to to puzzles on page 42:
Trivia 1.
Egypt
2. He places his finger on the side of his nose, gives a smile and a nod. 3. Red, green, gold and silver 4. Cookies and milk 5. January 7th 6. “A one-horse open sleigh” 7. Ten lords a-leaping 8. The Nutcracker 9. “Away In a Manger”
Backwards
10. “White Christmas” 11. Vixen (a fox)
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20. Yes. She helps the elves make the presents!
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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Pershore Retail Market Cherry Orchard, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1EY 01386 553232 www.pershoremarket.com Blackmans Bakery Ltd Breads, pastries and cakes 07891 988278 Bubblicious Vaping, e-cigs, artisan soaps, bathbombs and gifts 07743 400620 Carole Ann Ladies' Fashion skirts, trousers and jackets 01386 553412 Custom Graphix Custom printing, mugs, signs, banners and copying 07800 861800 E.D. Furniture Ltd Quality new furniture, beds and mattresses 07341 443323 Ken & Jen Mason and Daughters Fresh fruit, veg and flowers 01386 555805 LDA Meats Fine quality Butcher & Deli 01386 554010
Pershore Engraving Trophies, keys cut, gifts, new and used mobility aids 07784 750710 Pershore Footwear Wide fittings, shoes, bags for ladies and gents 01386 552782 Pershore Pet & Tack Shop Food, toys and bedding 01386 561635 Pershore Rugs Hug rugs, doormats and kitchen mats 01386 565588 Pershore Seafoods Shell and boat fish fresh everyday 01386 555731 Poppy's Stationery, packing & postal, knitting service 01905 820914 Sally's Bargains Toasters, kettles, fryers, steamers, cookware 07966 287828
Sweet Traditions (formerly Candy Box)
Wessex flour, cake boards, sugar paste and all your baking and decorating needs 07584 025157 The Book Shop Paper backs. kids' books, adult colouring, atlases, CDs and DVDs The Cosy Kitchen Hot & Cold food all day and take out service 01386 561695 The Garden Den Quality garden ornaments, and iron work 07711 868367 The Hideaway Sheepskin and cow hide rugs; fitted carpets 07748 236410 The Sewing Lady Alterations and repairs to curtains and clothing 01386 556468
Little Gems Pre-loved clothes, jewellery and bric-a-brac
Sewprettytoo Personalised hand-crafted quilts, cushions and bunting 07803 534109
The Tool Den Garden and general tools, tool repair and sharpening 07711 868367
Little Baby Gems New born and special occasion gifts, craft sets 07805 638158
Smart Cards Greetings cards, gift wrap, balloons and banners 07912 537441
TJM Outfitters Complete range of menswear since 1978 01386 550344
Open 9am to 4.30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday behind ASDA with ample parking front and rear
The Grapevine Situated
51
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