The Villager March 2014
Your
FREE
Magazine
Fruit Trees & Mini Orchards
DIY Disasters
A Family at War
Mother's Day
Farncombe Sewing
173 Karl Kertess Pershore Self Storage 16/01/2014 16
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The Villager March 2014
Issue No. 46
Hello and welcome to the March edition of
T he V illager
Publisher & Advertising
Grapevine Publications 3 Rye Street • Birtsmorton • WR13 6AS Tel: 01684 833715 Mob: 07754 170286 info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Editor
Betty-Ann Ambury Info@grapevinepublications.co.uk
Advertising & Editorial Betty-Ann Ambury
Contributors
Andrew Brooks Amy Marshall Brian Joyce Lesley Miller Pamela Green
Front Cover Photography (page 5 photography)
Mike Ambury
Next Issue Copy Date
10th March 2014
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 emissions.
4
This month we have the second of our First World War articles, all about the family of Worcester resident, Robert Head. Robert very kindly agreed to be interviewed by one of our regular writers, Pamela Green, and also allowed us to reproduce photos from his family archives. I hope you will enjoy reading the article. We again welcome a number of new advertisers and as always, have a variety of articles on subjects from DIY Disasters to Sewing Courses, so something for everyone. Easter is just around the corner, so a quick reminder about our copy date, which is the 10th of the month; if you want to advertise your business or an event, make a note to call in plenty of time to book your space for April. And here's hoping that we see less rain and more sun during March!
Betty
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
contents 6
Community First
27
CR Decorating
10
Mark Ellis Interiors
28
Bishampton History Society
12
PODS Celebrate 25 Years
33
The Cheeseboard
14
ALM Fitness
34
What's happening in March
16
Severn Seating
36
Shuttercraft
18
Fruit Trees & Mini Orchards
38
DIY Disasters
21
Mother's Day
39
St Richard's Hospice
22
Farncombe Sewing Courses
42
The Flowers Band
24
A Family at War
43
West Midlands Safari Park
25
"In Flanders Fields"
44
Your Community Numbers
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 2014
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
5
How does it work? Community First is a charity working to build stronger communities in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. By keeping oil prices as low as possible for people in communities more money stays in the local economy AND we can do our bit to tackle fuel poverty. Under the scheme we collate our heating oil orders around the 28th of each month and shop around for the best prices. By ordering large quantities we are able to attract good deals.
on the following working day and the successful company get your details sent to them. They ring you to take payment and discuss your delivery. Delivery is between 5 and 10 working days later. Information and registration documents for the oil buying scheme can be found at:
www.comfirst.org.uk
The scheme is open to anyone in Herefordshire or Worcestershire and the charity charge a £20 annual administration fee.
follow the page link to Community Projects and Bulk Oil Buying page – membership forms, etc., are on the left of the page.
We close our order book around the 28th of each month. We negotiate with oil companies
01684 312734 email: richardt@comfirst.org.uk
Or contact Richard on
Community First is the Community Council in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. A Company Limited by Guarantee and registered Charity. A member of Acre. Charity No. 703072 Company No. 2504158
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A man who had a little too much to drink is driving home from the city one night and, of course, his car is weaving violently all over the road. A cop pulls him over "So," says the cop to the driver, "and where have you been?"
Now open under management "Why, I've been to the pub of course," slurs the drunk. "Well," says the cop, "it looks like you've had quite a few to drink this evening."
"Yup! Thash right, I did!" the drunk says with a smile.
"Did you know," says the cop, standing straight, and folding his arms across his chest, "that a few intersections back, your wife fell out of your car?'" "Oh, thank heavens," sighs the drunk. "for a minute there, I thought I'd gone deaf." ***
Mary Clancy goes up to Father O'Grady after his Sunday morning service, and she's in tears. He says, "Now what's bothering you, Mary my dear?" She says, "Oh, Father, I've got terrible news. My husband passed away last night." The priest says, "Oh, Mary, that is terrible. Tell me dear, did he have any last requests?"
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She says, "That he did, Father."
The priest says, "What did he ask, Mary?"
She says, "He said: 'Please Mary, put down that damn gun....'" ***
A drunk staggers into a Catholic Church, enters a confessional booth, sits down, but says nothing.
The Priest coughs a few times to get his attention, but the drunk continues to sit there. Finally, the Priest pounds three times on the wall. The drunk mumbles, "Ain't no use knockin, there's no toilet paper on this side either."
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9
Mark Ellis Interiors
I
f you are considering replacing or updating your kitchen, bedroom or study then Mark Ellis Interiors at Pinvin can provide the perfect option to suit your imagination and budget. Mark is different from other suppliers as he can offer three options: • stylish kitchen replacement doors in a variety of finishes for a low-cost makeover • a wide range of beautiful contemporary kitchens and bedrooms from various partner suppliers • fully handmade kitchens or furniture items in a more traditional design, built locally in the workshop at Highgrove Farm. Having a workshop - unlike most kitchen companies who don’t manufacture - means that Mark is uniquely able to offer you a mix and match service, such as a beautiful handmade Island to complement your modern curved kitchen doors, or perhaps a dresser unit or table to fit into an awkward alcove. Mark can tailor the service to suit your specific requirements including advice and 3D design, building and fitting, as well as project managing all additional services such as plumbing, electrics, tiling and flooring. He personally oversees the whole process to give you peace-of-mind and just one contact to deal with. By not having any salespeople or intermediaries Mark aims to provide genuine value for money and prices can be anything up to 50% below 10
national companies. There are no ‘false’ halfprice sales and discounts or imaginary free appliances: just honest realistic quotes. Trading for the last six years in Warwickshire, Mark has now moved his business to Highgrove Farm and will be opening a new showroom alongside the workshop in March; keep an eye on the website for opening details. In the meantime contact him to discuss your new kitchen or bedroom project:
07976 301794 www.markellisinteriors.co.uk
Mark Ellis Interiors Kitchens • Bedrooms Studies & Storage From door replacements to fully bespoke design Extensive range of finishes including high gloss, curved and hand made solid wood. Local workshop facilities in Pinvin to hand make any item for a unique design at a reasonable price Beautiful items made in wood to fit any nook, cranny or alcove.
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11
PODS Celebrate 25 Years
T
wenty-five years ago on January 25th 1989, Judy and Stuart Megarry held an Inaugural meeting of Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Society, now affectionately known as PODS, at the Baptist Church in Pershore. Judy and Stuart had moved to Pershore from Nottingham, both having over 20 years of amateur dramatics between them from the acting, directing and production elements. 74 people turned up on that cold winter’s night and PODS’ first show, “Songs from the Shows’ was performed at Pershore High School in May of that year. Over the years, rehearsals have taken place in the back of the New Inn, various village halls, Cherry Orchard House, the Almonry and then to the Old Music Hall, which became known as the PODS Centre. The Society then moved into a rehearsal room inside the derelict Co-op and then eventually back to the new Number 8 building. The first book show started with ‘Babes in the Wood’’ in 1990 at the Leisure centre where 3 badminton courts were made into an auditorium and stage within a weekend with the help of up to 70 people. The Society also performed numerous cabarets and built floats for Pershore Carnivals. Over the years at the Leisure Centre PODS were able to build their own steps up to heaven for ‘Carousel’, an actual showboat for the production, ‘Showboat’ and a ship for ‘Anything Goes’; all engineered and put together by Stuart Megarry and his crew. One of the highlights and something that people still talk about today, was the golden coach that flew down from the ceiling in ‘Cinderella’ (1992). In 1994 it was felt that a more permanent home was needed for PODS as the PODS Centre (the Music Hall) was soon going to be developed and become flats. The old Co-op was still empty and Stuart Megarry was one of the original team asked to survey it to see if the site was feasible to have as an Arts Centre. The PODS machine, led by the late Ray Steadman and key players from the Society and within the town, got behind the scheme and the path 12
to which we know as Number 8 and a permanent home for the Society was born. Whilst Number 8 was being built, PODS put four shows on at the Swan Theatre, Worcester; ‘Me and My Girl’ (2001), ‘Oliver!’ (2002), ‘Guys and Dolls’ (2003) and ‘Oklahoma’ (2004). Support for the group was amazing with full houses at Worcester every night. In December 2004, Number 8 opened with a Gala night by PODS and this year, Number 8 will be celebrating their tenth year. PODS are now the Resident Theatre Company at Number 8, which is a wonderful meeting place and focal point for the people of Pershore. Over the years, PODS have had many members and great friendships have been made, many members becoming professionals in their field. With a combination of hard work, great talent and team spirit, the brand name PODS, has really grown to mean something. In May of last year, Judy and Stuart were invited to one of the Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace in recognition of all their hard work with PODS. 25 years on, PODS next shows are ‘Pickwick’, (June 2014), a Christmas show with Wassail celebrating 25 years in (December 2014), with ‘Carousel’( June 2015). If anyone is interested in joining this thriving Society, either in an off-stage or on-stage capacity, please call their Chair Mary Pawsey on 01386 552428. The youth section, PODYS also rehearse and perform at Number 8 and are putting on ‘The Pajama Game’ in February of this year.
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DISTRIBUTOR WANTED 01789 762450 LOCKSMITHS and SAFE ENGINEERS
We are looking for someone to deliver The Villager magazine in
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fter receiving a lot of questions from readers of my articles, as well as friends and family, about nutrition I have put together what I call my ’Clean Eating Guidelines’. I am not a Nutritionist, but I am a fit and healthy, qualified Personal Trainer, so take what I say - not as advice from a Doctor - but more as what has worked for me. There is always so much hype about different diets and it can be very confusing so I am here to help. The truth is weight loss does depend on your diet. No matter how hard you are exercising, if you don’t eat well you are sabotaging your hard work. The way I eat works for me and for others that I have shared my guidelines with, and they can work for you too. There are no extreme restrictions, no deprivation, no counting or weighing anything, it is sustainable and realistic and most importantly can be eaten by the whole family. No separate meals are made, as the whole family should be eating healthily; they watch what you eat and will grow up to eat the same. My guidelines are realistic changes that you can incorporate into your life, for the rest of your life and they will come with great health benefits.
for buying the food and making it yourself, there is some cooking and prepping involved but it is 100% worth it.
1) The first guideline and maybe the most important one is planning your food. This is the step that stops mindless eating. I am all
3) The third guideline is eating little and often. Still have 3 main meals a day, but also have healthy ‘go-to’ snacks in between, (fruit,
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2) The second guideline is repetition: repetition creates habits. If you repeat what you eat you always know what’s for each/next meal or snack so there is no standing at the fridge looking for something to eat. It does mean the same breakfast each day and the same snacks but you soon learn to love it. For example, eggs are great for breakfast, a great source of protein, but you don’t necessarily have to have scrambled eggs everyday - why not have an omelette with whatever you choose to put into it or poached eggs and smoked salmon - just because it’s technically the same ingredient doesn’t mean you can’t experiment.
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nuts, seeds). Have them prepared in your fridge ready to grab – rather than a chocolate bar! Sounds like a lot but it is the best way to eat as this causes your digestive system to be busy doing its job all day, versus your body being starved and trying to help you out by storing fat for later. Eating frequently in the day speeds up your metabolism, which is what you want.
your plate. We need healthy fats in our diet and good sources to get them from are: avocado, fish oils, unroasted nuts, and coconut oil.
4) The fourth guideline is drink lots of water. You must buy a water bottle and take it everywhere with you. You need your phone, keys, wallet and water bottle - don’t leave home without it. I only drink water, my own smoothies, protein shakes and green tea. Soft drinks are full of sugar and preservatives, juices are high in sugar but are a better choice than soft drinks as they at least have some nutrition. Alcohol is a big NO from me. Want to lose weight – cut alcohol out of your diet!
I challenge you to follow my clean eating guidelines for the next two weeks and I am 100% sure you will see a change in your body.
5) The fifth guideline: low carbs not no carbs. I would call the way I eat low carb. I always avoid white carbs like rice, pasta, bread and white potatoes. Carbs that come from whole grains, fruits and vegetables are fine. The ones from doughnuts, white bread, white pasta or white rice are not in my house. Ditch them and swap for brown varieties. This is a big one - you can still have them, just chose the brown versions. 6) The sixth guideline bad fat will make you fat. I avoid the bad fats such as butter, cream and anything deep-fried - think cellulite on
These are my clean eating guidelines. There will be some things there that you will turn your nose up at. If you are currently overweight and unhappy about it, I can guarantee you drink soft drinks, eat deep fried foods, processed foods and white bread and wonder why you can’t lose weight. If you follow my guidelines you will see changes; if you follow my guidelines you will lose weight.
I have recently completed a 10-day detox with a client of mine. We ate clean for 10 days, took supplements to help rid the body of toxins and increased our exercise regimes slightly. Our results were excellent. We each lost 2kgs in weight (bearing in mind there isn’t much of me to lose) and a total of 17.5cms (7inches) from our body weight measurements. If you too would like to do your own 10-day detox, with my daily help and support, then please get in touch for more information. For more information on Personal Training, Classes and other services I provide visit www.almfitness.co.uk or call Amy 07740 366419 or email info@almfitness.co.uk
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
15
T
a reclamation business in Herefordshire. I found a supplier for the Sapele hardwood timber, galvanised metal supports, stainless steel nuts and bolts, and got started. hree years ago whilst gardening, I decided that the bench we had was so old and unsafe, it was time to invest in a new one.
I made four, which immediately sold, so I then designed a colour leaflet to give to potential customers.
I spent many happy hours visiting garden centres and DIY stores, but nothing caught my eye. Then by chance, whilst on a trip to Dorset, I saw two sets of cast iron bench ends in a ‘junk’ shop and decided to buy them and make the benches myself.
The feedback I have had has been very encouraging; my customers like the cast iron ends as these can't be found at garden centres or DIY stores. Each set of ends is first sand blasted and then given two coasts of Hammerite paint. The Sapele timber has two coasts of Sandolin wood preserver, and all the fitting being high grade stainless steel, will never rust.
Once completed, the benches looked so good in the garden, that several of my friends and family asked me to make benches for them. I found some more cast iron ends and did just that. Everyone I made them for was so pleased with the quality and finish, that they recommend I go into business to produce them commercially. So I bit the bullet and invested in ten sets of Victorian cast iron bench ends purchased from
The benches look great in any garden, and as they will last for years could be handed down through the generations. I feel very proud that my little workshop business has become so successful. article by John Roberts
Local Handmade Garden Seats
Designed and manufactured in Gloucestershire using high quality cast iron bench ends with hardwood slats and stainless steel bolts.
Stratford 1600 3 Seat Bench Cast Iron Period Design Ends Sapele Hardwood Slats Centre Support Stainless Steel Bolts
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Made to order, selection of colour frames Contact
John Roberts
01684 594164 / 07850 319927
Email: severninstrument@aol.com Website: www.severnseating.co.uk
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To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
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1/4pp advert for Guide to Pershore 2012.
Fruit trees & mini orchards
T
he trend to grow our own produce is increasing, and many gardeners are looking beyond vegetables and traditional fruits - and creating mini orchards in their back gardens. But what are the things to consider if you want your trees to succeed year after year? Before you start planting, decide how you would like your mini orchard to look. Keep in mind that your garden does not have to be covered in trees like a traditional orchard. You can simply incorporate a few fruit trees into your existing design. Make sure that you pick suitable places to plant so they don't hang over your house or prevent sunlight from hitting your garden When choosing fruit trees for your mini orchard, you need to think about the type of soil they require, along with how much water and sunlight they need. The type you choose may be influenced by what other people are growing in your area, as well as the type of fruit you like best, and at
what time of year the trees produce. Having a range of different trees that produce fruit at different times will allow you to enjoy fresh fruit all year round Zoning refers to how you lay out your mini orchard. You need to think about it in a practical and logical manner.
For example, if you know that certain types of fruit trees need attending to more frequently, it makes sense to position them nearest to your house. Whereas if you are planting fruit trees that require very little maintenance, position them further down your garden, towards the back Once you have ordered your chosen fruit trees and had
them delivered, it is time to get planting. Make sure you follow your plan, ensuring that trees are planted in sunny yet sheltered spots, which will prevent them from being damaged by adverse weather conditions. It is highly recommended that you dig the soil before planting your trees, as this can help to improve drainage. If you spot any weeds, pull them out and lay down well-rotted garden compost The next step is to create your planting holes. These need to be about a third wider than your fruit trees' root systems, but the same depth, so that the soil marks match the existing ones on the trees. Place the trees in the holes you have dug, ensuring that the trunks are kept upright. You will then need to refill the holes with soil, and gently press it down with your foot to ensure it is compact It isn't a speedy process, getting fruit from trees, but over the years a mini orchard should produce more and more fruit, and offer the satisfaction that comes from home-grown food - as well as the knowledge that it is grown locally and under your own conditions.
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Dining in? Dining in? Have your dinner cooked by Haveayour dinner cooked top London chef. by a top London chef. We specialise in dinner parties, whether We specialise parties, with whether its dinner for two in or dinner larger parties, menus its dinner fortailored two or to larger yourparties, tastes. with menus to cook, your tastes. We come totailored you – we serve and clean – We come to you – we cook, you just relax andserve enjoy.and clean – you just relax and enjoy.
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Mother’s Day article & photography by Brian Joyce
M
others hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.
I had one once ... a Mother that is, but sadly she passed away a few years ago. Like many others I used to celebrate this event with her from a very early age and over many years. But it was only after she passed away that I really understood who my Mother was; what she did for me, not just as child, but throughout my life; the sacrifices she made and the hardships she endured. Perhaps the light bulb went on as I watched my own daughter with her newborn son and saw her take on the role that my own Mother fulfilled. It comes so very naturally to many and yet they get no training or preparation for the role unless you count life experience. Why is it, do you think, that so many of us take the valuable things in life for granted? The modern tradition of recognising Mothers on this specific day - usually with flowers, chocolates, cards, and occasionally breakfast in bed - seems wrapped up into Mothering Sunday which is celebrated by the Christian Church on the 4th Sunday in Lent and is reputed to have started with the celebration of the Virgin Mary as a Mother. As with so many of these celebrations it has its origins in the mists of ancient history. In this case, ancient Greece and the celebration of Rhea, Mother of the Gods/Deities in mythology, and with the Romans who celebrated a spring festival, called Hilaria dedicated to Cybele, a mother goddess. However, I struggle to
understand the rationale of our ancient forebears and their celebrations especially as the Romans eventually banned followers of Cybele! Likewise, I fail to understand the evolution of our current tradition in the context of the historical celebrations, and similarly don’t see a direct link or relationship to the way we think of our version of Mother Earth. I never considered my Mother as a deity or godlike creature although, there were times when her resemblance to Thor (Norse god of thunder!) was all too strong and more than a little intimidating, but then I suspect I brought that upon myself in straying from the straight and narrow or by breaking the rules! So what is that is so special about these wonderful creatures? Well, I am at a loss for words, especially when I see those s e l f - s a m e characteristics in my own daughter as she loves and cares for my grandson. Where did that come from, how did she learn or know how to do it and do it so well? There truly must be some unique, strong bond underlying delivery of a "squalling little wizened monkey" (as my father described me at birth!) but I don’t see it, don’t understand it, wouldn’t recognise it if it hit me in the face! I am only a mere male! I get the easy bit … well at least until delivery. So, my message dear readers is quite simple: Mothers … recognise them, cherish them and don’t just leave it until that one day in a year Mother’s Day - to tell them how you feel, for life passes us all by so very quickly. Never too late – so thank you, Mum.
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21
Farncombe Courses has it all sewn up We are delighted to give keen sewers and quilters the opportunity to join our 2014 courses and with the return of the TV programme, it’s a good time to book now.”
Susan Hazell (courtesy of AMUSF)
A
s The Great British Sewing Bee has now returned to BBC 2, why not consider a sewing or quilting course on the picturesque 400-acre Farncombe Estate near Broadway this spring? Farncombe Courses is running a range of weekend and day courses for people inspired to learn new sewing and knitting skills, for instance: Sewing Machines - How To Use Yours or Ours on 23rd March and 8th June, Patchwork & Quilting - An Introduction For Absolute Beginners on 27th April and 20th July, or even the weekend course Learn to Crochet from 28th to 30th March.
Sewing expert Sue Hazell teaches a number of sewing courses on the beautiful Farncombe Estate. She said of the rising interest in sewing and quilting: “It really started a few years ago at the height of the recession, when people re-discovered the art of repairing perfectly good garments that were too good to throw away. They became hooked and a bit more ambitious and started creating their own work from scratch. Popular TV programmes show what can be achieved with little or no previous experience. Sewing is a great skill to have and use, and it is so fulfilling when you can say `I made this`.” Farncombe is based in the heart of the Cotswolds, between Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon, just five minutes from Broadway. Weekend courses are residential and fully-catered. Prices include all meals and course tuition.
Mandy Morrison, Programme Manager for Farncombe Courses, said: “Our sewing and quilting courses were hugely popular last For more information on Farncombe year and seem to have caught the public Courses or to book your place, visit www. mood, helped in no small way by The Great fa r n c o m b e c o u r s e s . c o . u k /o u r- c o u r s e s / courses/crafts-and-textiles/. British Sewing Bee. 22 To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
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23
I
n 1914 the family of Henry Tempest Brown and Jemima Brown, plus thirteen siblings, were still recovering from the death of their eldest son and brother, John Henry Brown, who had been killed in the Boer War. But, when World War 1 was declared this didn’t stop son Arthur Brown, and sons-in-law Richard Head and George Yates, from volunteering to join the B.E.F. (British Expeditionary Force). These troops were the first force sent to France to fight against the German Army.
A Family at War
On 23rd August these brave men plus many others faced the German army at Mons where the British army suffered 8000 casualties. George Yates took a bullet in the face, and was returned to England. Arthur Brown was gassed in 1915, hospitalised in England for three months, and then returned to the trenches where
article by Pamela Green photos courtesy of Robert Head
he served for the rest of the war. Richard Head served in France and was with the West Yorkshire Battalion in the first battle of Ypres. He was one of only five survivors, and with others he roamed for weeks behind the trenches looking for other battalions to join. More of the family were soon to follow their siblings. In 1915 another son William Brown joined up, but in 1918 he was badly wounded. He returned to England, and suffered from his wounds for the rest of his life. Also in 1915, at the tender age of 16 years, son Robert Brown joined the Royal Field Artillery. All through the battle he carried a photo of his mother, Jemima. Robert was wounded in 1917 and was transferred to a French hospital where he wrote on his p h o t o , “BLIGHTY”. This was a term
Tempest Brown family
Gunner Robert Brown's Scroll
24
Achiet-le-Grand Cemetery in France
Allied Victory Medal, British War Medal Dead Man's Penny
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used by the men to indicate their wounds were so bad that they were homeward bound; sadly he never made it as he died two days later. Son-in-law William Henry Head was called up in 1917, but died of a burst appendix one week before he was due to report for duty. And finally, in 1918 son Frank Brown was called up, but he never went to war. Jemima Brown was presented with her son’s medals and she kept these safe so future generations would know how brave her son had been. In 1920 she visited Achiet-le-Grand cemetery in France to see and say prayers over her son’s grave. For her visit she dressed in black, and continued to wear black till the day she died 29th November 1944. Robert’s medals are The British War Medal [Squeak], The Allied Victory Medal [Wilfred] and the Dead Man’s Penny. Robert Head of Holt Heath in Worcester, son of Richard Head has told this story. He has his uncle, Robert Brown’s miniature bible and his medals. He is very proud of his history and to be a descendant of such a brave family. He has collected eleven volumes of the family history that go back to the 1600's and his daughter will carry on the collection. He too has visited Achiet-le-Grand cemetery in F ra n c e to proudly see and say prayers over Robert Head in France, at his uncle’s grave. his uncle's grave
“In Flanders Fields” In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. During the early days of the Second Battle of Ypres, a young Canadian artillery officer, Lieutenant Alexis Helmer, was killed on 2nd May, 1915 in the gun positions near Ypres. An exploding German artillery shell landed near him. He was serving in the same unit as a friend, the Canadian military doctor and artillery commander, Major John McCrae. As the brigade doctor, John McCrae was asked to conduct the burial service for Alexis because the chaplain had been called away. It is believed that later that evening, after the burial, John began the draft for his now famous poem, "In Flanders Fields".
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25
Commercial and Domestic Grass Cutting Service Tel:01386 462706
Fertilising email: info@smartcut.co.uk Scarifying Aeration www.smartcut.co.uk Weed Control Shrubs Fields Farm House, Hill Furze Road, Bishampton, Hedges Pershore, Worcs, WR10 2LZ Clearance
Fern’s Cattery Windmill Hill Field Alcester Road Radford WR7 4LS
Are you planning a trip? Now your feline friends can have a luxurious time too... - Purpose built cattery situated in beautiful countryside. - Our chalets are constructed to the highest standards using the most up-to-date materials to comply with the model license conditions. - All chalets are heated, secure, hygienic and designed to offer interested, comfortable accommodation. - Any medical conditions are catered for. - Collection and delivery service. - 24 hour veterinary care. - Fully qualified staff.
For more details contact Ayley on: Tel: 01386 792554 Email: ayley@fernscattery.co.uk www.fernscattery.co.uk
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W
hether your home is a 16th century black and white listed cottage or a three-storey new build, CR Decorating will provide all your painting and decorating needs.
With over ten years experience, and working to highly professional standards, CR Decorating use their years of technical expertise to advise customers on their choice of materials, whilst ensuring that the correct products are always used for every job. Chris Rabot of CR Decorating says "We specialise in problem-solving issues that require extra attention, including any pre-preparation remedial work that might be required."
CR Decorating aims to meet and exceed your painting and decorating needs. Our Services include: Painting - interior and exterior Domestic and Commercial Wallpapering Colour Advice Material selection and recommendation Plastering & Rendering Tiling - walls and floors Paint spraying technicians Pre-preparation including timber and masonry repairs Timber treatments Fully insured • Over 10 years’ experience Dineley Road, Peopleton, WR10 2EJ Call Chris Rabot on M: 07801 271038 T: 01905 412150 E: crdecorating@gmail.com
www.crdecorating.co.uk
And proof of this are some of the great testimonials Chris and his team have received: "CR Decorating did a great job plastering our kitchen ceiling, then painting the whole room. We had them back to paint our new conservatory too, and they sorted out the tiling in our utility room. We would definitely recommend them. They were very professional, clean and tidy." Mark & Lyndsay, Kempsey "For professional decorating completed on time and within budget look no further than CR Decorating. Chris was a pleasure to have working in our home." Mr & Mrs Saunders, Worcester. CR Decorating offer a range of services, both domestic and commercial, including painting both interior and exterior - wallpapering, plastering and rendering, floor and wall tiling, and more. For more details on the services CR Decorating offer, or for a free quote, call or email Chris on:
T: 01905 412150 M: 07801 271038 crdecorating@gmail.com or visit their website at:
www.crdecorating.co.uk
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27
B
ishampton History Society members enjoyed a fascinating tour of Evesham’s 14th Century Almonry on 25th January. The tour was a complement to last summer’s tour of historic Evesham by Helen Piper. Helen explained that the Almonry was the residence of the Almoner who was attached to Evesham Abbey which, before its dissolution, was one of the largest in the country. He dispensed unused food and other alms to the poor and needy: the food bank of Medieval times. The Almonry was also the home of the boys of the Abbey. The last Abbot was allowed to remain there in residence, but the Abbey was dismantled and its stone distributed. Only the Tower, the Almonry and the two churches remain on site. Helen pointed out the many interesting features of the museum, including the audio extracts of the Evesham area dialect, ‘Asum’; the model battlefield and skulduggery that defeated Simon de 28
Montfort, the father of English democracy; the wedding of the French Dauphin at Wood Norton Hall, and the memorabilia of one of Evesham’s World War II POW’s. We are most grateful to Helen for shining such a brilliant light on Evesham’s past, which encourages us all to return to see the vast collection of historic artefacts that the museum holds.
she started her search in the 1990s, internet research facilities were not what they are now. Using the few pieces of family documentation she had, she visited regimental museums and the National Archives to carry out the bulk of her research. Having discovered her uncle’s background, Maggie and her mother visited Lessines in Belgium and were invited to take part in an unveiling of a memorial to the soldiers who died defending the town. Come and join us to find out about her f a s c i n a t i n g ex p e r i e n c e in tracking down an uncle she never knew she had:
Our March (20th) talk ‘Finding Uncle Albert’, will feature a presentation by Maggie Tohill and her mission to discover more about her mother ’s brother who died in World War II. Nothing much was known about ‘Uncle Albert’ – just his name and a service number - and as
March 20th at 7.30pm at Throckmorton Village Hall, (not our usual venue), just £2 for non-members
To see what we’re up to generally, visit: www.bishampton.org.uk or contact Mike.Rickard@sky.com or Lesley Miller at lesleymiller3451@gmail.com
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Handyperson Services – Caring for your Home Are you looking for affordable and reliable help to sort out DIY jobs around your home?
Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire offer a professional Handyperson Service across South Wychavon, carrying out jobs such as: Fitting keysafes and other security measures Fixing broken doors, cupboards and door handles Hanging pictures and curtains Small painting jobs and tiling Replacing washers for taps Fitting grab rails And much more….
For more information, call us on 01386 422700 Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire 12 Vine Street, Evesham, WR11 4RE Email: evesham@ageukhw.org.uk Web: www.ageukhw.org.uk
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The Villager call Betty on 01684 or email
rates start from as low as £25 per month
833715
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Mozzarella, Tomato & Pesto Tart
This can be enjoyed immediately with a green salad or baked in advance for a tasty picnic treat..
Serves 2
This mouth-watering recipe has a fabulously fruity centre and crisp topping. Fantastic as a dessert with a generous helping of cream.
Makes 12 Ingredients
Ingredients
Ready made puff pastry 1 small jar pesto 3 tomatoes, sliced 1 ball of mozzarella, sliced. Freshly ground sea salt & black pepper Small handful Basil leaves and capers (optional) Extra virgin olive oil
Method ● Take pastry out of fridge 20 minutes before rolling.
● Preheat oven to 200C, gas mark 6. ● Roll out pastry to a rectangle, roughly 45cm
by 20cm, and place on greaseproof paper on baking tray.
● Spread pesto over pastry base leaving a 2.5cm border. Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella slices on top.
● Season well, dress with torn basil and capers and finish with a drizzle of oil.
● Bake for 20 minutes until pastry edges puff up and cheese is browning. 26 30
Raspberry Muffins
Topping: 50g plain flour
2 tbsp caster sugar 25g butter
250g plain flour 1 tbsp baking powder 250ml natural yogurt 6 tbsp sunflower oil 150g frozen raspberries
½ tsp bicarb of soda 100g caster sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract
Method ● Preheat oven to 200C, gas mark 6 and put 12 cases in muffin tray.
● Make topping by rubbing flour and butter together in bowl until it resembles breadcrumbs and stir in sugar.
● Sift flour, baking powder & bicarb of soda into large bowl and stir in sugar.
● Make a well in centre of dry ingredients and
pour in liquid and raspberries, stirring gently.
● Spoon mixture into cases, sprinkle over topping and press down lightly.
● Bake in the centre of oven for 25 minutes. ● Leave to cool in tray for five minutes then transfer to a wire rack.
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
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Karla Ryland t:01386 m:07425 804922 Karla Ryland561055 01386 561055 55Crown Row,Pershore, Pershore, CrownHouse, House, 2 Church Church Row, Worcestershire, WR10 1BH Worcestershire, WR101BH E: goldenhandsclinic@aol.com e:goldenhandsclinic@aol.com
FABULOUS SELECTION OF FOOTWEAR FROM THE LEADING BRANDS FOR ALL THE FAMILY MOST STYLES IN FULL AND HALF SIZES ~ SIZE 3 - 8 LADIES & SIZE 6 - 12 MENS
Childrens' main fitting centre in the area for both CLARKS & START-RITE at Redditch Our Alcester shop also has a large selection OUR STOW SHOP SPECIALISES IN LADIES & MENS FOOTWEAR Owned and run by a local family BRANDS INCLUDE: CLARKS, ECCO, RIEKER, HOTTER, LOTUS, LELLI KELLY, ROHDE, GABOR, ANATOMIC, LOAKE, BARKER, START-RITE, GEOX, MERRELL, SKECHERS, SEBAGO, VAN-DAL, EQUITY, TAMARIS, TIMBERLAND ~ HANDBAGS BY RADLEY & TULA
KINGFISHER CENTRE, REDDITCH - REDDITCH Tel: 01527 62416 HIGH STREET, ALCESTER 4 PARK STREET, STOW-ON-THE-WOLD Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to to advertisers advertisers
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SALLY’S Bargains
Computer Problems?
71 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU steve.tirebuck@btinternet.com
01386 554427
For good quality furniture, bric-a-brac and white goods. Come and see just what we have to offer by way of good quality second-hand furniture and bric-a-brac. And we now stock brand new electrical items, such as fridges, freezers and other white goods!
We also buy items of furniture or bric-a-brac.
You will be surprised at how reasonably priced our items are.
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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: 01386 550191 m: 07847 287376 e: info@pendas.co.uk w: pendas.co.uk
If you cannot find what you are looking for, we will be happy to find the items you require.
OPEN Tues & Sat 8.45am to 4pm Wed, Thurs, Fri 8.45am to 4.30pm
Onsite support for all your PC issues, for both the local home and business user
Local Delivery Available. No reasonable offer refused.
Pendas Computer Services Ltd - Pinvin -
HUXLEY IMAGING BESPOKE PICTURE FRAMING F i n e A r t Tr a de G u i ld me m be r
Free quotes and consultations. All types of framing undertaken – no job too small. • • • • • • • •
Prints, paintings Photos, certificates Sports Shirts Memorabilia, box frames Needlework, fabric Groupings & combinations Mirrors to order Sourcing prints & photography
t: 01386462026 m: 07738618470 e: richard@huxleyimaging.co.uk
www.huxleyimaging.co.uk 32
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The Cheeseboard 100 Barnard's Green, Malvern, WR14 3ND
01684 891900
Saint Agur
by Andrew Brooks
S
aint Agur (pronounced “Sant ah-GYRR”) is a blue cheese made from pasteurised cow’s milk from the village of Monts du Velay, the mountainous Auvergne region of central France.
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Because of its high butter fat content it is easily spreadable and melts well. It can be spread on crusty bread for a snack, or added to a salad with walnuts and pears. Soft, creamy, blue, excellent with any cheeseboard and your favourite red wine . . . .
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33
13:23
Saturday 1st March Landscape Photography Learn how to take better landscape photographs. We will make sure that you are using the best settings on your camera, and teach you how to capture vistas and landscapes that are engaging. Course Tutor: Photography Made Simple. Prebooking - please contact us for more information. 10am to 4pm. £50. Phone:01299 250513. Crossway Green, Stourport, DY13 9SE Sat 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th March Callow End Club Music Events 1st: The Lazy Sundays - well worth a look 8th: Vince Flatts Final Drive - back by request 15th: Kia - a great femail entertainer and singer from the West Midlands 22nd: Craker & The Woodpeckers - a great fun band - don't miss them 29th: The Silver Shadows - playing classics from the 50's, 60's, 70's for you to dance to. Every Saturday night from 8pm. Free entry, cheap beer & late bar. Callow End Club, Upton Road, Callow End, WR2 4TL Mon 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th March Quiz Night at The Old Oak Pub Every Monday at 8.30pm. Free entry. First prize £30 cash. The Old Oak Pub, 40 Stonebow Road, Drakes Broughton, Pershore WR10 2AP. Tel: 01905 841897 Wednesday 5th March My Life & Times: Christine Walkden BBC personality, gardener, and author Christine Walkden talks about her life and times; a rare opportunity to see and hear from one of our most popular gardening personalities. Nonmembers £8, members £6. 7.30pm. Free parking and disabled access. Refreshment and raffle. Bishampton Villages Hall, Bishampton, Pershore, WR10 2LY. Tel: 07854 362318
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Wednesday 5th March Joe McElderry: Set Your Soul Alive Tour Live & Unplugged Fans of Joe McElderry and X Factor this is one night not to miss! For one night only, Joe will be making a special exclusive performance, LIVE & UNPLUGGED, at Evesham Arts Centre. Doors open at 7pm, show at 7:30pm. Tel: 01386 446944. Evesham Arts Centre, Prince Henrys School, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH. www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Saturday 8th March Concert with the Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra A Spring concert in Pershore Abbey. This concert brings together great music spanning several centuries, and a wealth of talent. We are delighted to welcome international soloist, Jemima Phillips and WPO’s Jane Charles to perform Mozart’s beautiful concerto for Flute and Harp. The orchestra is joined by organist Michael Pegg for Saint-Saens’ inspirational Organ Symphony. Tickets available from Tourist Information Centres in Pershore, Worcester and Malvern, from Blue and a la Carte in Pershore and at the door. Admission £10, free for children. More details t: 01905 359247. Pershore Abbey, Pershore, WR10 1DT. www. worcesterphilharmonic.co.uk Sunday 9th March I Will Wedding Show Dumbleton Hall Dumbleton Hall Hotel is a traditional 19th century manor house ideal for those wedding pictures. Full wedding services available. I Will Weddings offers all brides- and grooms-to-be the opportunity to meet a variety of experienced and professional exhibitors at all shows. Enter our free prize draw to win up to £1000 towards your wedding gown courtesy of The Bridal Boutique of Worcester. Tel: 01384 358106. 12 noon – 3.30pm. Free admission. Dumbleton Hall, Dumbleton, Nr. Evesham, WR11 7TS. www.iwillweddings.co.uk
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Thursday 13th March Malvern Concert Club: Steven Osborne Steven Osborne is one of Britain’s foremost musicians, renowned for his idiomatic approach to a wide variety of repertoire from the mainstream classical works of Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms to the rarefied worlds of Messiaen, Tippett and Britten. Admission £16; over 60’s, students under 21 in full time education £5. 7.30pm. Tel:01684 580944. Grange Road, Great Malvern, WR14 3HB. www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/events/event/ malvern-concert-club-6/ Saturday 15th March Young Driver Scheme: 14’s to 17’s, Throckmorton Airfield, Pershore The Scheme is a completely independent Young Driver Scheme within Worcestershire, with highly qualified DSA Driving Instructors of 1st Approach Academy Ltd. £35 per hour. A valuable opportunity for 14 – 17 year olds to gain experience of vehicle control off the Public Highway in a controlled environment. All day Saturday from January to December 2014. Tel: 07983 881013 Long Lane, Throckmorton, WR10 2JH Saturday 15th March 55+ and Retirement Roadshow Take advantage of our 'Ten Minute Surgeries' programme to quiz our experts at the show. Jonathan Wilkey specialises in the law relating to the elderly particularly with regard to asset protection and long-term care, Court of Protection issues and equity release. Paul Hays from The Pensions Advisory Service will answer your queries about pensions (state and occupational schemes); and a representative from Tax Help for Older People will deal with tax issues. Come early and book your space if you want to speak with them. There will be refreshments outside The Guildhall. This is a FREE event. 9.30am to 3.30pm. The Guildhall, High Street, Worcester, WR1 2EY. Tel: 08000699784. www.retirementroadshow.co.uk
Thursday 20th March Bishampton History Society "Finding Uncle Albert". Maggie Tohill relates how she traced her mother's brother who died in World War II and was buried in France. Her search led her to find that he had actually played a part in liberating the village where he died, and was invited to take part in the unveiling of a memorial to the soldiers who gave their lives. £2 for non-members free for members. Tel: 01386 462037. 7.30pm at Throckmorton Village Hall, Throckmorton, WR10 2JX. Thursday 20th & Friday 21st March Forensic Science Investigation Days National Science & Engineering Week are. We are holding a two day forensic investigation where the children will be investigating a 'crime' and learning about the real world of Science. Times: 4.30pm to 7.30pm. Free . Booking needed for workshops. To reserve a place contact Pat Morton t: 01142 254695 or 01905 640325 or p.m.morton@shu.ac.uk. Grimley, Worcester, WR2 6LU. Friday 28th March “Springtime Fashions” To be held in The CC & Viyella Store, 14-16 Pump Street, Worcester. Pep up your wardrobe with the Superb New Spring collection. Fashions with Style plus Amazing Accessories. Time 7pm. Tickets £7 to include a glass of wine. Available from Tudor House. Open Wed and Sat from 10am - 4pm. Call Judy t: 01386 553536 / 01905 612309. www.tudorhouseworcrster.org.uk Friday 28th March Classical Guitar Concert An evening of music from Spain, Italy and South America. Chase away those winter blues with an evening of tangos, chorus and classical masterpieces played by two outstanding guitarists. 7.30pm. £9, concessions £7. Tel: 01905 28613. Elgar School of Music, 16-20 Deansway, Worcester, WR1 2ES. www.leoturner. com.
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35
W
hy Window Shutters? Popularity has grown after a hot summer as plantation shutters are designed to keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. The ability to control light in each panel, no matter the window shape, is a practical solution for light and privacy control. Shutters offer this benefit as each louvred panel is in effect a separate window covering, independently controlled. Peter Williams, owner of Shuttercraft West Midlands based in Droitwich Spa, has earned a strong reputation around Worcestershire as a local design and made to measure specialist. Local bathroom showrooms now show examples of his shutters, as fully waterproof materials can be ordered.
Visit www.shuttercraft-westmidlands.co.uk for a gallery of local installations. Evening and weekend at home selection available. Pdf catalogue or by post on request. Peter is always happy to have a no obligation home visit or just a chat on the phone with your ideas.
To arrange a Free Survey & Quote, call Peter Williams on
01905 852022
or visit www.shuttercraft-westmidlands.co.uk
Peter asks: "Why pay more? A genuine competitive price is always offered without the gimmick of discounts from inflated ’buy it tonight quotations’. I confidently offer price match or better." Bay windows are usually a nightmare with traditional curtains and blinds. Made to measure and installed by Peter these shutters look fantastic. Exclusively supplying S-Craft branded products Peter can also supply all wood venetian blinds to complement the shutter louvred look. Phone Peter for a friendly chat and he will also be happy to call and offer at home selection and survey. 36
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Comprehending Engineers: Take One
Pershore Rugs
Two engineering students were walking across campus when one said, "Where did you get such a great bike?" The second engineer replied, "Well, I was walking along yesterday minding my own business when a beautiful woman rode up on this bike. She threw the bike to the ground, took off all her clothes and said, 'Take what you want.'" The other engineer nodded approvingly, "Good choice; the clothes probably wouldn't have fit."
Comprehending Engineers: Take Two
Pershore Retail Market Cherry Road, Pershore WR10 1EY
Rugs of all colours, shapes & sizes Doormats & Kitchenmats Curtain Accessories
Tel: 01386 555588 businessManagement management Business & Insolvency Consultants consultants
To the optimist, the glass is half full. To the pessimist, the glass is half-empty. To the engineer, the glass is twice as big as it needs to be.
Comprehending Engineers: Take Three What is the difference between Mechanical Engineers and Civil Engineers? Mechanical Engineers build weapons Civil Engineers build targets.
Comprehending Engineers: Take Four The graduate with a Science degree asks: "Why does it work?" The graduate with an Engineering degree asks: "How does it work?" The graduate with an Accounting degree asks: "How much will it cost?" The graduate with a Liberal Arts degree asks: "Do you want fries with that?"
Our aim is to help Private Individuals, Sole Traders and Directors of Limited Companies who are experiencing financial difficulties. youare areininthis thisposition position you seek IfIf you it isthat essential that advice before making youprofessional seek professional advice before making potentially lifechanging decisions life-changing decisions affecting your future. affecting your future.
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Comprehending Engineers: Take Five Most people believe that if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Engineers believe that if it ain't broke, it doesn't have enough features yet. Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
Someone to do those odd jobs around the house NO JOB TOO SMALL
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37
DIY Disasters!
H
ow many times have you eagerly started a DIY project full of enthusiasm only to get half way into it and get bored? If this sounds like you, you're not alone. About 1.7 million of us are living with a DIY or home renovation project that's remained unfinished for the past two years or more. If you think that's bad, almost a quarter of a million households are so resigned to their ongoing DIY nightmare that they have lived with an unfinished project for more than 10 years For many of those DIY parttimers a restful sleep is also out of the question, as 38 per cent have unfinished projects in their bedroom, while culinary creations will be difficult for the 2.8 million of us who are living with unfinished kitchen refurbishments. You won't even be able to wash the DIY dirt off yourself if you are one of the 2.5 million British households living with an unfinished bathroom. And you can forget that fancy dinner party you've been planning if you're among the 15 per cent of households awaiting completion of a dining room refurbishment. Make that another TV dinner.
Do you leave your DIY projects half done?
or floods the house when installing a shower, they may find they are left picking up the cost of any claim. A bad workman blames his tools, or so the saying goes, but in the UK it seems a bad workman blames lack of time to complete the job. Half of those living in a property with an unfinished DIY or renovation project blamed too little time for the project being left unfinished. Almost a third blamed a lack of finances for the incomplete project. If it isn't time or money that's stopping us completing a task, it's other people, according to the study. Disputes with tradesmen, planning departments and neighbours have called a halt to nine per cent of unfinished projects.
projects provide a big source of conflict. In a quarter of households this has resulted in arguments between partners. This is hardly surprising when you consider that in 10 per cent of all cases at least one room has been left completely uninhabitable. As a result, ongoing DIY dramas result in significant mental anguish, according to the study. Nine per cent of us with unfinished projects have suffered from insomnia, while five per cent believe the emotional stress has damaged their performance at work. David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, says: "Budgeting effectively for the financial cost of completing a DIY project and being realistic about the time it will take to complete it can save significant heartache. Employing a professional tradesperson can be an effective strategy to ensure work is completed on time, on budget and to an acceptable standard. Indeed, employing a qualified tradesperson to complete complex renovation projects is vital if householders don't want to risk invalidating their insurance policy if a problem occurs."
Household appearance isn't However, it's not only your or the only thing to suffer as a your spouse's sanity you risk by result of uncompleted tasks. It taking on sizeable DIY and seems that when our DIY renovation projects. You may projects get left on the back also risk invalidating your home burner, so do our social lives, as insurance policies, especially if a quarter of households living you take on complex electrical, with a never-ending renovation plumbing or building work that drama (NERD), have been you are not trained to complete. unable to invite friends or If an unqualified householder family to visit their property. causes a fire with faulty wiring On top of this, unfinished DIY 38 To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
A Gift for the Future After you have provided for your family and friends, perhaps you would consider a gift in your Will for St Richard’s Hospice. Leaving a gift in your Will is easy and it can be for as little as 1% of what you leave behind. Gifts from Wills to St Richard’s ensure that we can continue to care for our patients and family members in the future. There a number of options when it comes to writing your Will, but we always recommend consulting a solicitor. If you already have a Will and wish to add a gift to the hospice, your solicitor will advise on the best way to do this.
For more information about leaving a gift in your Will to St Richard’s Hospice, please contact Fundraising Director Tricia Cavell on 01905 763963 or email tcavell@strichards.org.uk www.strichardshospice.org.uk/giftsinwills
St Richard’s Hospice – celebrating 30 years
W
ill you help us secure our future? Our vision – we do all we can do support our patients and their families. We help families through difficult times each and every day and we are committed to continuing to do so in the future. We can only fulfil this commitment with your help. We rely on you for as much as 68% of our funding, so the majority of patients are cared for using your donations, including gifts in Wills. A gift in a Will is an extremely generous, thoughtful and caring way to donate to St Richard’s. Leaving a gift in your Will is easy and it can be for as little as 1% of what you leave behind. Families always come first, but please think of St Richard’s and help us to continue to be here for the local community for years to come. Leaving a gift in a Will may also save on your inheritance tax We are delighted that due to unexpected and generous gifts in Wills we have brought forward plans to meet the specialist palliative and end of life care needs within the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week . This means expanding our Hospice at Home
services. Our Hospice at Home Health Care Assistants can make an immediate difference to the patient and family. For example, with our Hospice at Home help, a patient who wanted to leave hospital and die in their own home, surrounded by their family, was able to do so at short notice. In another instance, within 30 minutes of receiving a request for help from a worried District Nurse, a Hospice at Home team member was on her way to a distressed patient and family to provide support and reassurance. There are many more ways the team can help patients and families: for example providing support for carers in extreme situations. By supporting the carer we can help prevent them becoming too exhausted
to carry on, or perhaps providing immediate care over several days whilst temporary problems are resolved. Income from gifts in Wills has allowed us to increase the number of Hospice at Home staff to 11 so we can help more patients stay at home if that is their wish. Gifts in Wills have also helped us to start expanding our In-patient Unit to care for more patients and offer greater privacy in more single rooms. The new extension will open in our 30th anniversary year, 2014. If you feel you are able to help by leaving a Gift to the hospice in your Will, whenever the time is right for you, your generous gift will allow us to offer our existing services and look to the future. If you would like to discuss leaving a gift in your Will, please contact Fundraising Director Tricia Cavell on 01905 763963, email tcavell@ strichards.org.uk A GIFT IN YOUR WILL, HOWEVER LARGE OR SMALL, WHENEVER THE TIME IS RIGHT FOR YOU, WILL HELP ST RICHARD’s TO CONTINUE TO CARE.
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39
Trivia (answers on page 46)
Sudoku
1.
Which mass-murderer was the subject of the 1971 British film 10 Rillington Place?
2.
Which garden flower takes its name from Greek words meaning gold flower?
3.
What was the nationality of the missionary Mother Teresa of Calcutta?
4.
The Calcutta Cup is a trophy in which sport?
5.
Who holds the title 'The Lord of the Isles'?
6.
Which American building is located at 1600 Pensylvania Avenue?
7.
Through which city did Lady Godiva reputedly ride naked?
8.
A hamlet is a small village that doesn't have what kind of building?
9.
In Venice, what colour are the gondolas available for public use?
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
1 9 4
1 Twirl (6) 4 Have the means to (6) 8 The ____, workplace sitcom featuring David Brent (6) 11 Cook gently over water (6) 13 Viral illness (3) 14 Attribute (5) 15 ____ up, recap (3) 16 Human digit (3) 18 Pub spirits dispenser (5) 20 Falsehood (3) 22 Enthusiastic (6) 23 Murky (6) 24 Slippery, oily (6) 25 Offensive (6)
DOWN
1 2 3 5 6
40
7 9 10 11 12 16
Fiddler on the ____, Topol film (4) Soya meat substitute (4) Discretion (4) Base (4) Against All ____, Jeff Bridges/ Rachel Ward film (4)
4 3 2
6
7 8
8
3
7 2
5
9 5
9
6 9
8
2
4
5
1
1
Coffee Break 17 Bridget Jones: The ___ of Reason, 2004 sequel (4) 18 Obligation (4) 19 Oaf (4) 20 Children's game (4) 21 Seed-buds of potatoes (4)
Hold to be (4) Level, storey (5) Blow your top (5) Of a town (5) Readily understood (5) Sharp flavour (4) 2
3
9
4
10
13
16
6
4
3
8
5
6
1
8
3
4
2
10. Which teeth are the eye-teeth?
ACROSS
7
5
5
11
7
12
14
17
6
15
18
19
22
23
24
25
20
21
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
The things kids say .... !! An 8-year-old girl went to her grandfather, who was working in the garden and asked him: "Grandpa, what is a couple sex?" The grandfather was surprised that she would ask such a question, but decided that if she's old enough to know to ask the question then she's old enough to get a straight answer. Steeling himself to leave nothing out, he proceeded to tell her all about human reproduction and the joys and responsibilities that go along with it. When he finished explaining, the little girl was looking at him with her mouth hanging open, eyes wide in amazement. Seeing the look on her face, the grandfather asked her, "Why did you ask this question, honey?"
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The little girl replied, "Well, Grandma says to tell you that dinner will be ready in just a couple secs." *** The minister stood up in the pulpit to give his sunday sermon. "Dear Lord," the he began, with arms extended toward heaven, "without you, we are but dust ..." He would have continued but at that moment a small girl in the congregation, who was listening intently, leaned over to her mother, and asked very loudly in her shrill little four-year-old voice, "Mum, what is butt dust?" *** Five-year-old Melanie asked her Granny how old she was. Granny replied (as grandmothers do) that she was so old she couldn't remember. Melanie said, "If you don't remember you must look in the back of your panties. Mine say five to six."
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*** Susan, aged four, was drinking juice when she got the hiccups. "Please don't give me this juice again," she said, "It makes my teeth cough."
Tel: 01905 700142 Mob: 07867 813616 Fully Insured member of the Painting & Decorating Association
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41
The Rotary Club of Worcester Wychavon
Presents
The Flowers Band Conducted by Paul Holland
Pershore Abbey
Saturday, April 5th at 7.30pm All seats ÂŁ12 In aid of
R
Featuring a wide and varied programme of popular old and new arrangements for brass bands.
Tickets available from:
Blue, 19 Broad Street Pershore Or telephone 01905 426537 Concert supported by:
www.sourcedesignandprint.co.uk Tel. 01905 29048
42
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
L
ove animals? Then you'll really love Barney! Staff at West Midland Safari Park have fallen head over heels in love with one of the very latest babies to be born at the Park. Barney is a curiously named Douroucouli more commonly known as a Night Monkey or Owl Monkey from South America - often referred to as the New World. The youngster was born on 24th November 2013 and, despite a tiny stature, Barney at almost 12 weeks old is already becoming quite independent - eating solid food and learning to be trained to sit on the scales to be weighed by being encouraged to get into a little box. The Douroucouli is the world's only nocturnal monkey - with wide eyes to help night vision, although they have no colour vision, as it would be of no benefit to them in the dark. Its genus name 'Aotus' means 'earless' as the ears are extremely small. In the wild they live high in the tree canopy in family groups (the adult pairs are monogamous) so
comparatively little is known about their life style although they live up to 20 years in captivity. Barney's father is six-year old 'Ilay' and the mother is 'Kyna' who is four. Both parents arrived at the Park in May 2013 from Papiliorama Zoo, in Ke r ze rs , Switzerland. As yet staff at West Midland Safari Park have been unable to determine whether Barney is actually a boy or a girl. It is quite likely that Barney can be seen on father's back, as Douroucouli mothers generally relinquish this role after just a few weeks. Barney, along with Ilay and Kyna, may be seen in the allweather Twilight Cave every day, during half term. Twilight Cave is included in the standard admission of £17.99 for adults, £12.99 for children aged 3-15 years and £15.99 for concessions. Children under the age of 3 years are admitted free of
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charge. Prices also include admission to the four mile, self-drive safari, Discovery
Trail with all weather attractions - Creepy Crawlies, Mark O'Shea's Reptile World and Seaquarium - along with Penguin Cove, Sea Lion Show, Animal Encounters, Meerkat Mayhem and Walking with Lemurs. Admission also includes a free return ticket. Amusement rides are charged extra in all cases. West Midland Safari Park, the Adventure Theme Park and Tiny Tots Theme Park are open every day from Saturday, 15th February 2014 until Friday, 7th November 2014. Further information by phone 01299 402114 or website www.wmsp.co.uk
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VETS & ANIMAL CARE
Directory
AGE UK & CARE IN THE COMMUNITY MALVERN Malvern & District Tel: 01684 560666 EVESHAM & PERSHORE South Wychavon Tel: 01386 422700 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN 15 High Street Tel: 01684 593633
CHEMISTS EVESHAM Lloyds Parmacy Tel: 01386 48899 Morrison Pharmacy Tel: 01385 40610 MALVERN Boots The Chemist Tel: 01684 572905 Lloyds Pharmacy Tel: 01684 573811 PERSHORE Boots The Chemist Tel: 01386 556860 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Talbot Cooper Chemists Tel: 01684 592637
CITZENS ADVICE EVESHAM, PERSHORE & WORCESTER: Wychavon CAB Tel: 08444 111 303 MALVERN Malvern Hills CAB Tel: 01684 563611
HOSPITALS Evesham Community Hospital Tel: 01386 502432 Malvern Community Hospital Tel: 01684 612600 Pershore Hospital Tel: 44 01386 502070
EVESHAM Bowler Lewis & Partners Tel: 01386 442804 MALVERN Avenue Veterinary Centre Tel: 01684 572420 PERSHORE Martin & Carr Tel: 01386 553631 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN The Stocks Veterinary Centre Tel: 01684 592606 RSPCA Tel: 0300 123 4999 CATS PROTECTION Tel: 0845 3977074 RSPB Tel: 01767 693690
POST OFFICES BISHAMPTON Tel: 01386 462873 EVESHAM Tel: 01386 423344 GREAT MALVERN Tel: 01684 573003 INKBERROW Tel: 01386 792201 LOWER MOOR Tel: 01386 861705 MALVERN LINK Tel: 01684 573634 PENDOCK Tel: 01531 650034 PERSHORE Tel: 01386 552608 PEOPLETON Tel: 01905 840471 UPTON SNODSBURY Tel: 01905 381511 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 592634 WELLAND Tel: 01684 310377
TOURIST INFORMATION EVESHAM Tel: 01386 442348 MALVERN Tel: 01684 892289 PERSHORE Tel: 01386 556591 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 594200
COMMUNITY SUPPORT CHILDLINE Tel: 0800 1111 CHILD PROTECITON HELPLINE Tel: 0800 800 500 CRIMESTOPPERS Tel: 0800 555 111 WORCESTERSHIRE RAPE & SEXUAL ABUSE SUPPORT CENTRE Tel: 01905 611 655 SAMARITANS Tel: 01432 269 000
RAILWAY STATIONS EVESHAM Tel: 0845 700 0125 MALVERN Tel: 0121 634 2040 PERSHORE Tel: 0845 700 0125
EMERGENCY SERVICES POLICE FIRE AMBULANCE Emergency: 999 FIRE BRIGADE Worcester Road, Malvern Minge Lane, Upton upon Severn Tel: 01684 572948 Defford Road, Pershore Tel: 01905 24454 Merstow Green, Evesham Tel: 01386 466388 WEST MERCIA POLICE Victoria Road, Malvern Station Lane, Upton Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore Abbey Road, Evesham Tel. 0300-333 3000 AMBULANCE SERVICE Victoria Road, Malvern Tel: 01684 561556 Spetchley Road, Worcester Tel: 01905 764226 GAS Tel: 0800 111 999 WATER Tel: 0800 783 4444 ELECTRICITY Tel: 0800 328 1111
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Roundabout Roundabout collects surplus furniture and household items* in good condition to supply to people in need We also have a shop and warehouse, which is open to the general public from 9.00am to 1.00pm : Monday to Thursday
7a Blackminster Business Park, Blackminster, Evesham Worcestershire, WR11 7RE
Tel: 01386 833030 Email: admin@roundaboutevesham.org.uk www.roundaboutevesham.org.uk *Excluding carpets, personal clothing, large wall units, electrical items and gas appliances
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45
Answers to Trivia on page 40: (1) John Christie (2) Chrysanthemum (3) Albanian (4) Rugby Union (5) The Prince of Wales (6) The White House (7) Coventry (8) A church (9) Black (10) The canines
as featured on the TV programme BBC Countryfile Fresh British & Continental Bread & Patisseries High Quality Meat & Cheeses Local Honey & Eggs • Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Pickles & Preserves Plants & Fresh Flowers • Gardening Supplies Flower & Vegetable Seeds
Answers to Crossword on page 40: R O T A T O O A O F F I C F L U T O T O E O A R D E N N G U G R E A S
E
A F O E C O R A I T U V P T I C T C L O Y O D
The Pantry, Peopleton
F O R D D E D D L E S U M C L I E O U D Y D E I O U S
Newspapers, Greetings Cards, Gift Paper & Stationery • Post Office Traditional bicycle delivery service to Peopleton - unique in our area.
“Come and experience how good village shopping can be !!” Open: 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday 9am to12noon Sat 9am to11am Sun Post Office: 9am to 3.30pm Mon to Fri
Tel: 01905 840471
Flyers & Leaflets s and leaflets deliver your flyer ed wit e v a H h
The Villager
villages to over 20 towns and We can design, print and deliver!
For quotes and delivery rates please call Grapevine Publications on 0845
46
224 7061
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk
Index of Advertisers
Accountants Crowthers 8 Focus Accountancy 2 Bathrooms & Kitchens A Job 4 John Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors
11 7 10
Building & Construction Evesham Trade Centre Simon Haines Construction
20 20
Cars: Parts, Repairs & Sales Marshalls of Evesham Ltd
13
Catering In The Frame
19
Cleaning Services Lady Cleaner & Gardener Chimney Services Elite Sweeps
33
19
Community Services Age UK 29 Roundabout 45 St Richard's Hospice 39 Computing & IT Services Pendas CS Ltd
32
Decorators, Painters & Plasterers A Job 4 John Avon Safe Home Ltd Aztec Painting & Decorating CR Decorating S.A .Cooper
11 17 41 27 9
Electricians Avon Safe Home Ltd Craig Merchant Electrical Sparky Williams
17 6 31
Fencing A Job for John Finance MBA Solutions
Funeral Directors E Hill & Son
11
Pershore Retail Market Malvern Butchery Mr Chill's Traditional Sweets
48 48
Garden Furniture Severn Seating
16
Pet Care Fern's Cattery
26
Picture Framing Huxley Imaging
32
Photography BG Digital Photographs
20
33 9 19
8
Gardening & Landscaping Bowbrook Gardens 11 Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair 17 Lady Cleaner & Gardener 33 Luke's Garden Maintenance 41 Smartcut 26 Haberdashery & Material The Fabrik Shop
17
Plumbing & Heating A+ Plumbing J S Plumbing Mark & Will Hartley
Hairdressers Hair by Colette Le Petit Parlour
11 9
Pubs & Restaurants The Dolphin
Handyman A Job 4 John Home Handyman
11 37
Health & Beauty ALM Fitness Golden Hands Clinic Heating & Plumbing A+ Plumbing J S Plumbing Mark & Will Hartley
14 31
33 9 19
Interior Design & Soft Furnishings Pershore Rugs 37 Shuttercraft 36 Sunflower Soft Furnishings 17
Roofing Services G.M. Roofing
26
Second Hand Dealers Sally's Bargains
32
Skip Hire MHF (UK) Ltd
17
Shoes Humphries 31 Storage Pershore Self Storage
2
Tiles Worcester Tiles
45
46
Jewellery Beautiful Beads & Accessories
11
Village Shops The Pantry, Peopleton
Kitchens Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors
7 10
11
Locksmiths Alcester Locks Avon Safe Home Ltd
13 17
Windows, Doors & Conservatories Avon Safe Home Ltd 17 Cloudy2Clear Windows 3 ETC Windows, Doors & Conservatories 33 P J Home Improvements 2
37
M O T Marshalls of Evesham Ltd
Please mention THE VILLAGER when responding to advertisers
13
Wood Burning Stoves Chase Heating Elite Stoves
23 19
47
Pershore Retail Market Cherry Orchard, Pershore, WR10 1EY
01386 553232
www.pershoremarket.com
Malvern Butchery Suppliers of fresh meat, free-range eggs biltong & boerewors 2013 Gold Awards for sausages & dry cured bacon Selection of home-made cakes and pies
Mr Chill's
Tel: 01684 462426
Stockists of all the favourite traditional sweets Home-made fudge in a variety of delicious flavours Range of Sugar-Free sweets
Tel: 07931 550515 48
To advertise call 01684 833715 or 07754 170286 or visit www.grapevinepublications.co.uk