The worcestershire grapevine april 2015 v2

Grapevine TThe Worcestershire

www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

Issue No. 59 April 2015

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BUSINESS EDITORIALS  HEALTH & BEAUTY  COFFEE BREAK  LOCAL EVENTS

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Managing Director Paul Papandreou feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people

money, although that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’

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‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense.

I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people

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Find us on

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contents

Hello and welcome

12

Castle Paving

14

Pershore High School

18

Business Editorial

22

St George's Day

26

Gardening for the Birds

28

Pro-Smart Driveway Cleaning

30

ALM Fitness

32

Carrick Travel

34

Recipes

35

St Richard's Hospice Fund Raiser

38

Things to do in April

42

Training a Puppy to be a Guide Dog

44

Coffee Break

45

The Flowers Band

46

Age UK Competition

48

Community Contacts

49

The Cheeseboard

51

Index of Advertisers

to the April issue of

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 2015

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Grapevine TThe Worcestershire

And a Happy Easter to everyone - enjoy your Easter Eggs and Hot Cross Buns, and if you are looking for somewhere to go for lunch on Easter Sunday, why not go along to The Berkeley.

In August we will be increasing our distribution of The Worcestershire Grapevine to 10,000 copies, which means we will have three new delivery routes in Evesham, and will need more distributors. So if you live in Evesham, like walking and would like to be paid for doing so, then give me a call.

The Cats Protection are moving to new premises, so if you have a bit of spare time, please give them a call to see if you can help.

And if you are a music lover, then don't miss the Flowers Band - details on page 45.

Happy reading.

Betty

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Grapevine TThe Worcestershire

April 2015

Issue No. 59

Publisher & Advertising Grapevine Publications(Worcestershire) Ltd 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 Amy Marshall Brian Joyce Fran Holder Lesley Miller Pamela Green

Photography

Front Cover & Page 7 Mike Ambury

Next Issue Copy Date 10th April 2015 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. Artwork is accepted on the understanding that there are no copyright restrictions.

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Adam said: "Gladly, Lord, what do you want me to do?"

Getting married and want images of the whole event. Preparing product or website advertising and need images (including digitally manipulated), need shots taken of architecture, landscapes or landmarks.

God said: "Go down into that valley."

Adam said: "What's a valley?"

Are you a model or an agent needing portfolio or fashion shoot photographs. All of these and more can be provided by BG Digital Photo-graphs. Just contact me by email, mobile phone or the contact form on the website.

God explained it to him.

Then God said: "Cross the river."

Adam said: "What's a river?"

God explained that to him, and then said: "Go over to the hill."

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Adam said: "What is a hill?"

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Then He said to Adam: "On the other side of the hill you will find a cave."

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Adam & Eve

Adam said: "What's a cave?"

After God explained, He said: "In the cave you will find a woman."

Adam said: "What's a woman?"

So God explained that to him too.

Then, God said: "I want you to reproduce."

Adam said: "How do I do that?"

God said: "Good grief ... !"

And then, just like everything else, God explained that to Adam, as well.

So, Adam went down into the valley, across the river, over the hill, into the cave, and found the woman.

Then, in about five minutes, he was back.

God, His patience wearing thin, said angrily: "What is it now?"

And Adam said: "What's a headache?

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All customers entitled to a 14 day cooling off period To advertise call 01684 833715 or email:are info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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.

Megan to sky dive for charity Sixth form student, Megan Thomas, undertook a Sky Dive on Valentine’s Day to raise money to support a trip to Malawi as a volunteer in an orphanage for 12 months, starting in August.

During the social care project she will teach important life skills that will give them a better future and allow them to share with their community. Megan needs to raise £5,900 to cover flights, accommodation for the whole year and to ensure she can donate to the community.

Megan stated “The whole year will give me an insight into a different culture and new way of life. It will give me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and help me develop invaluable skills and learn new ones. The experience will also give me a different perspective on life as well as giving them a better value of life”.

Students receive offers from Oxford & Cambridge Two Sixth Form students from Pershore High School have received offers from Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

Taylor Trophy Debating Competition Two students from Pershore High School, Eleanor Roberts, Year 11 and Erin Young, Year 10 were victorious in a prestigious schools debating competition on Monday 12th January. The girls competed against teams from Marling, Hereford Cathedral School, Old Swinford, Solihull School and Warwick School.

The girls secured their place in the final of the Taylor Trophy at Bromsgrove School last term. They debated against Solihull School and were declared winners at the end of the evening.

Katie Baston (17) of Pershore has received an offer from Oxford to study Chemistry at Magdalen College. Katie is currently studying Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Mathematics and Physics.

Erin and Eleanor are pictured holding the trophy with teachers Mrs Corinna Durrant and Mrs Anita Iddon.

Hair raising donation

Simon West (18) of Pershore has received an offer from Cambridge to read History at Selwyn College. Simon, who is the school’s Head Boy, is studying Economics, History and Philosophy and Ethics at A’ level.

Holocaust Memorial Day Identi-kit As part of Holocaust Memorial Day on 27th January, students were asked to re-assemble photographic images of genocide victims in an attempt to not only commemorate them, but also to try to re-create the themes of loss, disappearance and memory that are inevitably linked to genocides.

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The images also hinted at the displacement and loss of the victims’ remains. Led by Art teacher, Ed Turfrey, the collages are being displayed as an artwork in the school reception area. Students were challenged to look around the school for images of the people who they had constructed their ident-kits from, find out who they were, how old they were and what happened to them; and to try to imagine how they might have felt.

Bryony Watkins has generously donated hair to ‘The Little Princesses Trust’.

The charity arrange for wigs to be made out of donated hair for children who have lost their hair through illness. Bryony is very grateful to hairdresser Ashley Taylor, stylist of Regis in Pershore who cut her hair. .

.

Bryony found about the charity on social media and was so moved she decided to help. Bryony said after her haircut “I’m so happy I went through with it and would urge anyone else who may be thinking about it, to just do it”.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Ventriloquist's Dummy ... ?

A young ventriloquist is touring the country and puts on a show in a small country village.

With his dummy on his knee, he starts going through a range of dumb blonde jokes.

Suddenly, a blonde woman in the fourth row stands on her chair and starts shouting, “I've heard enough of your stupid blonde jokes.

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What makes you think you can stereotype blonde women that way? What does the colour of a woman's hair have to do with her worth as a human being?

It's men like you who keep women like me from being respected at work and in the community, and from reaching our full potential as people.

And it's people like you that make others think that all blondes are dumb!

You and your kind continue to perpetuate discrimination against not only blondes, but women in general, pathetically all in the name of humour!"

The embarrassed ventriloquist begins to apologise, and the blonde yells, "You stay out of this! I'm talking to that little twit on your lap!"

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The UK's largest animatronic Dinosaur attraction opens at West Midland Safari Park on Saturday, 21st March 2015.

"Land of the Living Dinosaurs" is an immersive walking trail featuring 38 life-size dinosaurs, each with moving eyes, mouth and neck. The exhibit is heavily themed, landscaped and planted with copious amounts of flora, including tree ferns, gunnera, reeds and monkey-puzzle trees.

Sound effects indicative of the lost world add atmosphere, whilst static fossil displays, a volcanic vent, three pools and a geyser intensifies the whole experience. It is a journey that spans four ages of dinosaur reign: Permian, Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous.

armature, which adds realistic movement to each display.

Daniel Griffiths, Marketing Manager, said, "Work initially started on the £2.5m project in 2012. It led the Park's design team on trips around the world to investigate exactly how the exhibit could be achieved, before various manufacturers were engaged to develop the dinosaurs. Meanwhile, the 1000 metre square site for the new, open-air display was being created on a parcel of reconfigured land between the four-mile, drive-through safari and the existing Discovery Trail. The exhibit has been designed to transport visitors back to a forgotten era, when powerful forces and mayhem ruled the Earth, to a time when only the biggest, strongest and fiercest survived. We are all extremely pleased with the result".

The entrance to the Jurassic safari is flanked by the skeletal form of the mighty T-Rex and is located in the Park's Discovery Trail. Examples of some of the most formidable creatures to have roamed the planet include the curiously named Dilophosaurus, fearsome Gorgonops and two of the largest at 8 metres tall, the Apatosaurus measuring 25 metres long and Argentinosaurus at 30 metres. A life-size adult Tyrannosaurus Rex elevated on 4m rockwork casts a dramatic shadow, whilst the impressive Sarcosuchus, meaning 'flesh crocodile' represents one of the largest crocodile-like creatures that is thought to have ever lived.

"Land of the Living Dinosaurs" is included in the standard admission charge of £19.99 for adults, £14.99 for children aged 3-15 years and £17.99 for concessions. Children under the age of 3 years are admitted free of charge. Prices also include admission to the four- mile, self-drive safari, Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters, African Village, live shows and a free return ticket. Theme Park rides charged extra in all cases.

All the dinosaurs in the exhibit are built from compound rubber and house a moving steel

Further information by phone 01299 402114 or website www.wmsp.co.uk

West Midland Safari Park and the Adventure Theme Park are open every day until Friday, 6th November 2015.

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

17

Business Editorial

Advertising : A s editor, publisher, designer, chief cook and bottle-washer of The Worcestershire Grapevine, one of my tasks is to talk to prospective advertisers about their advertising needs, including the cost of advertising with us.

Nothing out of the ordinary in that: you want to advertise … we have a range of prices … you chose the one that suits your budget.

And yet it is astonishing the number of people who seem to think they are entitled to free advertising, or at the very least, a substantial discount!

So why is it that some people think that advertising rates should be negotiable? Do these same people try to bargain with the supermarket for the price of their groceries? Do they demand a discount in restaurants, or pubs, or shops? I’m fairly certain that they would get short shrift if they did! So just what is it about advertising that makes some people behave as if we are taking the food from their children’s mouths?

Recently I went to see a group of a local traders who, for various reasons, have had a particularly difficult time, and could do with a helping hand to boost business.

And that was my intention when I went to see them: to offer them a package deal which would give them regular advertising at a greatly reduce rate. However this particular group of traders seem to think they are entitled to free help, including free advertising! I wonder how they'd react if I walked into their 18

an essential business tool … shops and said I wanted my purchases for free. We all know the saying “there’s no such thing as a free lunch” – that literally is true, because someone, somewhere, has to pay for it; so if I give free advertising, the person receiving it gets it for free ... but I pay for it.

As a purveyor of advertising, I obviously have a vested interest in selling it, but – as the title of this article says – advertising is an essential business tool. When a businessman (or woman) says they can’t afford to advertise, that’s much the same as saying they’ve got a car, but can’t afford to put petrol in it – not going to get very far, are they?

Advertising is not an exact science and it can be tricky to get the right balance, but if you follow a few simple rules it’s possible to do so.

And the Golden Rule, in my opinion, is: make sure your customers can find you. If your customers come to you, make sure your address is prominent in the advert; if your point of contact is email or phone, make sure you respond to these. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to contact someone who doesn't answer their phone and doesn't respond to messages or emails!

And if prospective customers can't get hold of you, they'll go elsewhere.

The main point about advertising is that it is an essential part of any

business if you want to succeed.

Whether it's word of mouth, radio, TV, internet or paper advertising: if you don’t advertise, you won’t get customers and you won’t have a business … it’s that simple. And no, there are no guarantees that you will be inundated with enquiries the first time you advertise … it can take several months. That’s the nature of advertising. It’s a little like taking your car for an MOT: just because your car passes is no guarantee that it won’t break down a month later.

So, if as a business person, you are still undecided as to whether or not to advertise, consider this: in 2013 Tesco made £3.9 billion profit, Home Retail Group (Argos and Homebase) made £90 million, and most impressively, Aldi went from a loss of £56 million to a profit one year later of £57.8 million!

And yet all of these companies continue to advertise on television and in the national dailies. Why? Why do they continue to advertise in the most expensive media possible when they’re making so much money? Or perhaps the question should be: are they making so much money because they advertise?

If you want to succeed, copy someone successful ... and there can be no doubt that the likes of Tesco, Aldi, and Argos are extremely successful.

… not an unnecessary expense!

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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The Home Care Specialists

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If you are looking for an alternative to residential care or extra support for those everyday tasks that are becoming difficult for you or a loved one – then we’re here to help - from 30 minutes per week to Live-in Care.

• All heating and plumbing work undertaken • Aga • Rayburn • Esse: servicing and repairs by authorised engineer • New boilers natural gas/LPG installed • Landlord certificates • All boilers and gas fires serviced and repaired • No job too small

Our Worcestershire care team has been providing award winning quality homecare since 1989 and can help with: personal care, housekeeping, help getting around or even to provide a break to an existing family member or care-giver.

Tel: 01386 793221 Mob: 07846 198157

To find out how we can help you, call: 01905 401 958 or visit: www.helpinghands.co.uk

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

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19

CR Decorating aims to meet and exceed your painting 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 E: crdecorating@gmail.com www.crdecorating.co.uk

Your local carpet and upholstery cleaning specialists Carpet and upholstery cleaning Stain removal and prevention Allergy and odour elimination Leather cleaning Stone, tile and grout cleaning Commercial/ landlord and tenancy cleaning Fully Insured

01386 640595

www.chrisjamescleaning.co.uk info@chrisjamescleaning.co.uk When booking please quote vil14 for

15% OFF and claim your free spotter

We don’t cut corners, we clean them!

Are you

looking

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So are your customers!

What would you prefer them to see … this advert … or yours!

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The TheGrapevine Villager call Betty on 01684 01684 833715 or email

ooking ng t this page? rates start from as low as £25 per month

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info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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Berkeley THE

Evesham Road, Worcester, WR7 4QL Tel: 01905 345269 Email: info@theberkeleyworcester.co.uk www.theberkeleyworcester.co.uk Food Served 9am until 9pm everyday

Easter Sunday Sunday 5th April

Enjoy Easter Sunday Lunch at The Berkeley 3-Course Lunch £16.95 per person Children's Menu Available

Easter Egg for every child!

Tables available from 12noon until 9pm

Saturday 2nd May ~ Gourmet Night at The Berkeley 4-Course Dinner ~ £29.95 per person

Booking Essential

£5.00 OFF PER PERSON ON ANY TRIBUTE NIGHT Booked & Confirmed by 30th April 2015.

To confirm booking £10.00 per person deposit is required.

Expires 30/04/15

BUY ONE MAIN COURSE GET SECOND HALF PRICE Valid Monday to Thursday. Meals must be ordered from the main course section of the main menu. Cheapest main course price is half price. 1 Voucher valid for up to 10 people on a table. Expires 30/04/15

Dining Offer

2 courses and a drink for only £12.95 per person Available Monday to Thursday 12 noon to 7pm

Tribute Nights

April 24th - Michael Buble

May 29th - Freddie Mercury

All Tribute Nights £27.50 per person including 3-course meal

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21

T

he most famous legend of St George is of him slaying a dragon, but as this heroic deed was first attributed to St George in the 12th century, long after his death, it is likely that the many of the stories connected with St George are also fictitious.

There are various versions of story of St George slaying the dragon, but for those of you who may not know it, the general gist is as follows.

One day St George came upon a man who told him that everyone in that land was in great distress, because a dragon was ravaging the country. Every day the dragon demanded the sacrifice of a beautiful maiden and now the only one left was the king's daughter, and unless someone could slay the dragon, she would be sacrificed the next day.

St George was determined to slay the dragon and save the princess, so at daybreak he set out for the valley where the dragon lived. As soon as the dragon saw him it rushed from its cave, roaring with a sound like thunder. Its head was immense and its tail fifty feet long, but St George was not afraid. He struck the monster with his spear, but the dragon's scales were so hard that the spear broke into a thousand pieces. Then St George drew his sword and pierced the dragon under its wing where there were no scales, and it fell dead at his feet. The dragon was slain, and the princess was saved!

The legend of St George and the dragon is perhaps symbolic in nature as in the Middle Ages, the dragon was commonly associated with the Devil, so the slaying of the dragon symbolises the triumph of good over evil. St George was reputedly a Christian, born somewhere in Turkey, possibily Cappadocia, in the 3rd Century. He was martyred and died for his religious beliefs, and for standing against the religious persecution of the Christians, by his Roman employers.

He was apparently born to Christian parents, moved to Palestine where he became a R oman sol id ier, and was subse22

quently beheaded in Lydda in Palestine, which lends credence to the martydom theme.

St George is patron saint not only of England but also of many other countries, including Catalonia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Greece, Lithuania, Palestine, Portugal, and Russia. He is also the patron saint of soldiers and archers, cavalry and chivalry, farmers and field workers, riders and saddlers. In addition, he is also said to help those suffering from leprosy, plague and syphilis, and in recent years has been adopted as the patron saint of Boy Scouts.

Richard the Lionheart is said to have placed himself under the protection of St George, and at the siege of Antioch on 28th June 1098, according to legend, the crusaders received miraculous help from a great army on white horses, clothed in white and bearing white banners, led by St George, St Demetrius, and St Mercurius. There was no association of the red cross flag with St George before the end of the crusades. The fact that he was born c303, long before the common use of the armour in which he is generally portrayed, may well support the association with Richard the Lionheart. The red cross on a white background, which is now known as the flag of St George and forms part of the Union Jack, was originally worn by the crusaders as a tunic over their armour to make them identifiable during battle.

Our patron Saint is popularly identified with England and with the very English ideals of honour, bravery, chivalry and gallantry, but as we now know, he wasn't English at all. In fact, very little, if anything, is known about the real St George. Pope Gelasius said that George is one of the saints "... whose names are rightly reverenced among us, but whose actions are known only to God." article by Brian Joyce

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Dog Grooming

Mark Ellis Interiors

by Julie

1 on 1 grooming tailored to your requirements Home visits can be arranged Minimal restraints used All breeds and ages, large and small, elderly and infirm

Kitchens • Bedrooms Studies & Storage From door replacements to fully bespoke design

Tel: 01386 438335 Mob: 07984 598319 Email: info@juliesdoggrooming.co.uk

Extensive range of finishes including high gloss, curved and hand made solid wood.

Please see my website for more details

www.juliesdoggrooming.co.uk

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.

www.markellisinteriors.co.uk

07976 301794

free consultation, 3D design & quote.

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 www.ehillandson.co.uk

Fairfield House, Defford Road, Pershore, WR10 1HZ

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Simon Haines Construction Services Ltd

● ● ● ●

General Building Conversions & Extensions Property Maintenance Groundworks

Over 20 years experience

Telephone: 01386 550002 Mobile: 07971 002637 Email: simon@shcsgroup.co.uk

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CRAIG MERCHANT ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Part p' Domestic Installer Registered

• New Builds & Extension • Full/Part House Rewires • Outdoor Security Lighting • Mains Smoke Detectors • Extra Sockets & Lights • Night Storage Heaters • Fuseboard Changes

Call for a FREE

Inspection / Quotation t: 01905 841018 or m: 07899 964866

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23

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Our Missio steverandleinstallationsltd@gmail.com Severn.

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e train ed port for

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FABULOUS SELECTION OF FOOTWEAR FROM THE LEADING BRANDS FOR ALL THE FAMILY

lease co Childrens' main fitting centre in the area for both CLARKS & START-RITE at Redditch he qualit Our Alcester shop also has a large selection o answe our stay MOST STYLES IN FULL AND HALF SIZES ~ SIZE 3 - 8 LADIES & SIZE 6 - 12 MENS

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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

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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

upon

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n: We to create a home staff are staff approachable, Ouraim Mission: WeWe aim to create aishome that iswhere friendly, where areare approachable, Our Mission: aim to that create afriendly, home that is friendly, where staff approachable, l butprofessional caring, butbut most of all ask on a dailyon basis caring, butwe most ofourselves all askask ourselves a daily basis - professional but caring, but most of we all we ourselves on a -daily basis

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at The Boynes Care Centre. your stay at at The Boynes Care Centre. your stay The Boynes Care Centre.

The Boynes Care Centre, Upper Hook Road, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, WR8WR8 0SB TheThe Boynes Care Centre, Upper Hook Road, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, 0SB0SB WR8 0SB Boynes Care Centre, Upper Hook Road, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, WR8 The Boynes Care Centre, Upper Hook Road, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, Tele: 01684 594001 Email: enquiries@stcloudcare.co.uk Web: www.stcloudcare.co.uk Tele: 01684 594001 Email: enquiries@stcloudcare.co.uk Web: www.stcloudcare.co.uk Tele: 01684 594001 Email: enquiries@stcloudcare.co.uk Web: www.stcloudcare.co.uk 25 Please mention594001 THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when respondingWeb: to advertisers Tele: 01684 Email: enquiries@stcloudcare.co.uk www.stcloudcare.co.uk

Worcester sh

Gardening for the Birds

B

irds are among the easiest and most popular wildlife to attract to a garden. ln return for food, water and shelter, they'll remove unwanted insects and bring colour and enjoyment year-round.

Gardens can be designed and grown for the enjoyment of localwildlife as well as your own. A garden wildlife sanctuary can attract a continuous variety of birds throughout the seasons.

Birds and butterflies are the most popular and easiest of all wildlife to attract if you provide food, water, cover and shelter.

Attracting birds to your garden is a work in progress.They are capable of clearing your property of unwanted insects and are a valuable commodity.

Ask yourself the following questions: What kinds of birds visit my area? What types of growth are they attracted to? What types of activity does your family enjoy in this area? What types of birds do you see at different times of day?

rather than large trees that often shade the yard and discourage other types of plant growth.

Insects are also an important food source for birds. Some, such as the nuthatch and woodpecker are highly dependent upon them.

They also like birdseeds that have high fat and high oil content. Be sure to fill feeders with a variety of seed and food types.

Water is also an important element for attracting birds to your garden.

A clean, full birdbath will encourage a more stable population of birds. A pond or a small pool will attract more wildlife than almost anything else will.

Hollow and dead tree trunks, which usually make up the natural habitat for bats and birds, can be easily replaced in small yards and suburban neighbourhoods with a nesting or brooding box. A few birdhouses combined with food and water can attract a wide variety of birds to your garden throughout the year. Be sure to empty the boxes of any nesting or debris at the end of each summer.

silky down for nesting material. As the down is not available until late in the summer after the thistles have flowered, they nest much later in the year than most birds.

The cup足shaped nests are woven tightly from plant fibres and are almost completely watertight.

If you prefer not to grow natural thistle, thistle feeders - which are designed for the Goldfinches' own distinctive eating style of swinging themselves upside down to feed are available. Goldfinch feeders have the perches above the holes instead of below as most feeders do. Just wait until you see their antics as they swing by their feet to reach the seed below.

Goldfinches also feed on the seed of zinnias, dandelions and other weedy plants. They will also eat small insects if their food of choice is not available and just like many other birds, they are attracted to the large colourful seed heads of sunflower plants.

Goldfinches, often called wild canaries, are attracted to thickets and grasses. They tend to avoid treeless areas and thick,dense forest. Treat these gregarious birds well by providing the basic elements of food, shelter and water and they may decide to stay yearround.

Landscaping is an important part of your bird-feeding plan. Plantings should provide food for the birds Attracting Goldfinches every month of the year. Consider The Goldfinches' favourite seed is planting small trees and shrubs thistle. Using natural thistle also that offer a variety of fruit types provides the Goldfinches with a 26 To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

ScotiaCare ScotiaCare ScotiaCare Homeplan Homeplan Homeplan Established 1979

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The ScotiaCare Homeplan offers complete peace Homeplan of mind for offers all your boiler, The ScotiaCare The ScotiaCare Homeplan offers heating, water, and electrics completehot peace of plumbing mind for all your boiler, complete peace of mind for all your boiler, for only £7.99 per month. heating, hot water, plumbing and electrics heating, hot water, plumbing and electrics for only £7.99 per month. forfast, onlyreliable £7.99 per month.

A service from an expert local provider A fast, reliable service from an expert local A fast, reliable service from an expert local provider. provider A fixed low cost of just £7.99 per month for the first 12 months. ongoing at £16.99 A fixed low cost Aoffixed just £7.99 perprice month for the A fixed low cost of just £7.99 per month for the per for a further years. price at £16.99 firstmonth 12 months.

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27

Professional Cleaning - Smart Sealing

P

ro-Smart Cleaning Services provide a high standard of professional and affordable driveway and patio cleaning services to both residential and commercial customers in the Worcestershire and Warwickshire area.

Kevin Lloyd-Wright, owner and manager of the company says, “Our cleaning methods incorporate the very latest technologies to produce excellent results. We are fully insured and adhere strictly to health and safety guidelines to ensure our work is carried out to a high standard and to the degree of safety expected from a professional exterior cleaning company.

We use pressure washing and sealing techniques for block paving, pattern imprinted concrete, tarmac, natural stone and crazy paving, and all our staff have attended specialised training courses run by one of the UK’s leading distributors of pressure washing and sealing systems.

We use the highest quality pressure washing equipment which is a quantum leap above the standard of ordinary domestic pressure washers.

This, coupled with professional-standard flat surface rotary cleaners and turbo lances, produces results which are truly outstanding.”

In addition to driveway and patio cleaning, ProSmart also covers all aspects of exterior cleaning, including windows, conservatories, gutters, fascias and soffits. Some customers have retained Pro-Smart to clean all the windows and gutters as well as the patio and driveway, in

28

what Kevin calls “… a total House Valet. Easter provides the opportunity for people to come outside after the long winter and see how the wet weather, weeds and moss growth have affected their driveways and patios. This is the time to call in Pro-Smart!”

Business has continued to expand and Kevin has recently taken on more staff to handle the increased levels of activity.

“We believe in providing a truly professional service and wish to exceed our customers’ expectations every time – have a look at the testimonials on our website.”

For more information about the services offered by Pro-Smart, call:

t: 01386 870988 m: 07943 379615 www.pro-smartdrivewaycleaning.co.uk www.pro-smart.co.uk

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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Landlord Landlordcertificates certificates certificates Landlord Boiler Boilerchanges changes changes Boiler

Welcome to Focus Accountancy. We are a firm of accountants, tax advisors and business consultants based in Evesham, Worcestershire.

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29

8 Food Swaps that Slash 100+ Calories

L

osing fat isn’t easy … I don’t have to tell you that. You’ve been striving for a fat loss goal for longer than you’d like to admit. To work towards your goal, you slave in the gym and watch what goes in your mouth every day.

But what if you could drop 100 calories or more by making a single change to your meal or snack? It is possible. You’ve just got to know where to swap. Check out the list below to find out nine easy swaps that will make your diet drop 100 calories instantly.

Ready? Get swapping!

Food Swap Number 1: From Bread to Topless No, you don’t have to give up bread altogether.

If you want to quickly watch 100 calories slide off your meal, all you’ve got to do is toss the top piece of bread from your sandwich or the top bun from your burger. It may require a bit of balancing on your part, but it will instantly save you 100 calories and help that loaf of bread go twice as far.

Food Swap Number 2: From Bagel to English Muffin (see recipe on page 34) Since we’re already talking bread, we may as well knock out the bagel dilemma. They’re delicious, thick and hard to resist. However, if you can swap them for an English muffin 30

instead, you’ll still enjoy great flavour (and a delightful texture) and without even batting an eye, trim 100 calories from your breakfast, lunch, or snack.

Food Swap Number 3: From Cream to Fatfree Milk Have a hard time taking your coffee straight?

You’re not alone. Not interested in giving up coffee altogether? Then you’re going to need to find a new option to the creamer-heavy concoction you make on a daily basis. The easiest solution is to swap out your creamer for fat-free milk. Lucky for you, this small swap pays off big, cutting 100 calories from your morning jolt.

Food Swap Number 4: From Regular to Light Beer Your taste buds may revolt at the thought of light beer, but your shrinking waistline will love it. Drop your insistence on good old regular beer and drop 100 calories during a two-beer sitting.

Food Swap Number 5: From Juice to the Real Thing Orange juice is a staple of many people's breakfast routines. What if you left the juice and went for the real thing—a genuine, bona fide orange? You probably already guessed

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

that this, too, would shave a lot of calories from your meal. At the same time, you’ll get more fibre to keep your day moving along well.

Food Swap Number 6: From Peanuts to Edamame They’re readily available, taste great, and give you the salt fix you need. Peanuts are not, however, a low-calorie snacking option. Swap them out for edamame and you’ll grab 4 bonus grams of protein, while cutting your calorie count by 100.

Food Swap Number 7: From Shake to Milk When the stress of life gets to you, few things help you forget about your troubles better than a chocolate milkshake. Unfortunately, that shake leaves you feeling bloated and for good reason. It’s jam packed with calories.

Get the same chocolate comfort with a glass of chocolate milk instead of a shake and cut out at least 100 calories.

Food Swap Number 8: From Raisins to Grapes They won’t stay fresh for months on end, but if you eat fresh grapes instead of their wrinkled siblings, you’ll cut right around 100 calories at once. Yes, it is that easy.

Remember that exercise is a huge part of the equation when it comes to achieving weight loss.

If you want to get in shape and are interested in Personal Training, Group Training or attending any of the Fitness Classes I offer, go to www.almfitness.co.uk for more information. Alternatively call Amy on 07740 366419 or email info@almfitness. co.uk Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

31

Indochina Overview Overview Indochina I

ndochina, comprising the countries of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, is in essence a French invention, with their influence still evident today in the colonial shopfronts of Phnom Penh and Luang Prabang, in Vietnam’s roadside baguette stalls and in the wide tree-lined boulevards of Hanoi. But long before colonisation, these three countries were united by landscape and lifestyle, and dictated by the ebb and flow of the Mekong.

Vietnam, the largest of the three nations, is probably the best known. From the ancient rhythms of the countryside and the fertile plains of the Mekong Delta in the south, atmospheric Hoi An and the stunning coastline and beach resorts of Central Vietnam, to the rugged mountains of the north and jaw-dropping Halong Bay, you will be inspired by the landscapes, culture, history and mouth-watering cuisine, and moved by the warmth of its people.

Cambodia

Cambodia is best known for the incredible temples of Angkor, and witnessing this is a once in a lifetime experience. Beyond Angkor and the enchanting faces of Bayon, are palm-fringed beaches, picturesque rural landscapes and one of the most charming riverside capital cities in Asia. There is a wonderfully rich human element to be found within this ancient kingdom as it moves slowly towards modernity. It is this transformation that further offers a truly compelling travel experience.

Landlocked Laos is the least populated of the Indochina nations and claims some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, and the gem of the region, Luang Prabang. Laos is dominated by beautiful mountains, pristine jungle and the meandering waters of the Mekong. It is said that a travelling experience in Laos is like stepping back in time. In Laos, time seems to move more slowly‌ and if you choose to embrace it, you will be duly rewarded.

Vietnam

Carrick Travel 19 High Street Pershore Worcs WR10 1AA T: 01386 554262 Carrick Travel 57-59 Port Street Evesham Worcs T: 01386 41474 Laos

32

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Thinking Holidays?

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Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when enquiries@carricktravel.com responding to advertisers Visit: www.carricktravel.com Email:

33

GV0914

English Muffins

• Mix butter and sugar in a small saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar. Add the milk, stir and remove from the heat. Stir in the yeast and the egg.

• Mix flour and salt in mixing bowl. Add the milk mixture and stir until well combined.

Cover and set aside for 1½ hours, or refrigerate overnight (remove from fridge an hour before cooking).

• Heat a griddle or a skillet over medium heat.

Stir dissolved baking powder into the batter.

60 g butter 1 tbsp sugar 450ml milk 1½ tsps or 7g active dry yeast 1 large egg, beaten

• If using muffin rings, butter them. Dust the griddle or skillet with corn meal. Pour about ¼ cup (62.5ml) onto the griddle, free form or into rings.

• Cook for about 7 mins. Flip them and continue cooking for another 7 to 10 more mins.

2 tsps baking powder dissolved in 1 tbsp water

• Allow muffins to rest for at least 10 minutes, then pry in half with a fork, toast and serve with butter, honey, or jam, or beneath bacon, poached egg and Hollandaise sauce.

Cornmeal or polenta for dusting

Makes 8 to 12 muffins

450g plain flour 1½ tsps or 7g sea salt

Feta and Spinach Pie • Preheat oven to 180C, gas mark 4.

• Wilt spinach in large pan over low heat.

Allow to cool and drain well, squeezing out excess liquid manually.

• Melt butter in frying pan, add onion and cook for 5 mins until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for a further minute.

• Remove from heat and add to a bowl with spinach, feta, pine nuts and eggs. Mix together and season well.

500g spinach • Spoon into a one-litre baking dish.

A knob of butter 1 large onion, finely chopped • Brush pastry sheets with melted butter, 2 garlic cloves, chopped lightly scrunch and lay over spinach mixture.

200g feta, crumbled • Sprinkle with caraway seeds and bake for 4 tbsp pine nuts, toasted 25-30 minutes, until crisp and golden.

3 large free-range eggs, beaten • Serve with tomato and red onion salad.

4 to 6 filo pastry sheets ½ tsp caraway seeds Serves 4 34 To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Fundraising cycle ride in aid of St Richard’s Hospice On 22nd July 2015,

myself, Victoria Bamford, 25, Dog Care Assisstant at Guidedogs for the blind, from Inkberrow and my brother Edward Bamford, 31, a Science Teacher in Warwick and our friend Chris Moss, 35, Youth Justice Practictioner in Bedford

will be cycling from London to Paris from the 22nd of July to the 24th of July (arriving the day before The Tour De France)

that is around 264 miles or about 66 miles on average per day!

We are doing this in aid of St Richard’s Hospice, a place where my uncle Richard received superb care.

Victoria Bamford, Edward Bamford and Chris Moss

At the moment we are training every day in order that we can complete the challenge and with the help of family and friends we are aranging various sponsorship events.

We are looking to raise £4,200 Donations can be made online at https://www.justgiving.com/Tour-De-Richard/

Thank you for your help: Vicky, Edward and Chris.

Computer Problems? & Elite Stoves ● Prompt, reliable & friendly service ● All types of flues & appliances cleaned. ● Cowls and bird guards fitted. ● Guild certificates issued after every sweep.

● Fully qualified by the Guild of Master Sweeps and fully insured. ● Stove/Log burner Installations. ● HETAS Approved Installer.

Call Eddie T 01905 700701 / 07895 612915 www.elitesweeps.co.uk

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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: m: e: w:

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Onsite support for all your PC issues, for both the home and business user

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35

“Open 4 Business” Have you recently started your own business?

Are you thinking about starting your own business in the near future?

Would you like to start your own business?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, then Open 4 Business is the essential business workshop for you.

According to Theo Paphatis (former star of Dragon’s Den) 50% of start-ups fail within the first couple of years because “… people don’t do their homework”.

Open 4 Business is a straightforward, easy to follow, one-day workshop that will take you through all the steps you need to make sure your business hits the ground running.

The workshop is run in small groups (maximum 10 people) from 10am to 6pm

on Saturdays (so no need to take time off work!) and the fee includes all course material and refreshments.

For more details or to book your place on the next workshop, please contact:

07754 170286 0800 292 292 4 info@mba-solutions.co.uk

Open Business Complete Guide to Starting your Business

Complete Guide to Starting your Business

36

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

GROOMING AT FERN'S •

fully qualified city and guilds level 3 dog groomer

Fern’s Cattery Windmill Hill Field Alcester Road Radford WR7 4LS

brand new premises located at the cattery full grooms available

Are you planning a trip? Now your feline friends can have a luxurious time too...

nails included in full grooms or separate collection and delivery service free within first 5 miles all breeds catered for professional one on one service quiet and stress free environment

www.groomingatferns.co.uk

01386 792554

Ferns Cattery, Alcester Road, Radford, Worcs WR74LS Arfernihough@hotmail.co.uk

- 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

A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION TO A FLAT ROOF PROBLEM DON’T WASTE MONEY ON RE-FELTING

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37

Wed 1st & 8th, Saturday 4th & 11th April Follow the Chocolate Trail Investigate “The Cadbury Connection”. Fun for all the family. Find out about chocolate and follow the Chocolate Trail. See where Richard Cadbury had his Coffee Shop. Solve puzzles and follow the chocolate trail to win a prize. 10am – 4pm.

Admission free; £1 for Chocolate puzzles. Tel: 01905 612309. Tudor House, Friar Street, Worcester. www.tudorhouse.org.uk Mon 6th, 13th, 20th 27th April Quiz & Curry Night at The Old Oak Pub Every Monday at 8.30pm. £2.50 entry fee. First prize a gallon of beer. The Old Oak Pub, 40 Stonebow Road, Drakes Broughton, Pershore WR10 2AP. Tel: 01905 841897.

Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April Eggsperience Easter at Eastnor Our legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle and grounds. Chocolate for everyone who takes part and a chance to win an enormous Easter Egg! Open 11am to 5.30pm. Tel: 01531 633160.

Castle & Grounds Admission fee. Eastnor, near Ledbury, HR8 1RL. www.eastnorcastle.com Friday 3rd April Andy Parsons: Live & Unleashed He's smart, informed & indignant - and he's taking righteous aim at the biggest targets in Britain: politicians, celebrities and anyone else who dares to talk rubbish. Min age 16. 8pm - tickets £15 from www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk and Evesham Almonry, Abbey Rd, WR11 4BG. Tel: 01386446944. Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH. www.andyparsons.co.uk Saturday 4th April Bishampton Spring Show A chance to see local exhibitors display their flowers, vegetables, and floral art. 2pm - 4pm show time. Entries from 9.30am - 11am. 20p per entry; visitors 50p. Free parking, disabled entrance, refreshments. Tel: 0754 362318. Bishampton Villages Hall, Bishampton, near Pershore, WR10 2LY. www.bishamptongardeningclub.org.uk Sunday 5th & Monday 6th April White Cottage - Open Garden for NGS 2-acre garden with large herbaceous and shrub

38

borders, island beds, stream and bog area. Spring meadow, formal area with lily pond and circular rose garden, and more. 11am – 4.30pm. Admission £3, children free. Tel: 01386 792414. White Cottage, Stock Green, nr Inkberrow, B96 6SZ Monday 6th April Malvern Flea & Collectors Fair With up to 700 exhibitors in 2 inside areas as well as outside you are sure to find something. Catering facilities, ATM machine and free parking. 7.30am - 3.30pm. Entry £4. Tel: 01636 676531. Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW Thursday 9th April CountryTastic CountryTastic is a hands on, interactive and fun day out with food, farming and countryside at its core. This fun indoors and outdoors children's event has plenty of entertaining displays, tractor rides and so much more! Don't miss out on the perfect Easter day out for all ages! 10am – 5pm.

Tel: 01684 584924. Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW. www.threecounties.co.uk/ countrytastic/ Friday 10th April The Elvis Years Celebrate Elvis’ 80th birthday year with this outstanding concert production of the West End musical Jailhouse Rock, featuring Mario Kombou and his incredible band. 8pm – 10.30pm. Tickets £20. Tel: 01905 611427. The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED. www.worcesterlive.co.uk Saturday 11th April Easter Workshop: Sketching and Painting Experiment with technique and produce a finished work to take home. £45. 10.30am – 3.30pm. For further details and to book contact Karen Stone 0777 3355817. stonearts@fsmail.net. Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, B60 4BU. Saturday 11th April Complete Madness Re-live the madness of Madness! A sensational theatre extravaganza featuring the amazing talents of this 5-piece band who will take you on a musical journey through the story of one of Britain's most memorable, visual and fun bands.

Starts 8pm. Tickets £15 from Evesham Almonry,

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Things to do in April Abbey Rd, WR11 4BG and www.eveshamartscentre. co.uk. Tel: 01386-446944. Evesham Arts Centre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH

Ring and Guide dogs websites. Tel: 01527 821272.

Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, B60 4BU. www.jinneyring.co.uk

Sunday 12th to Wednesday 15th April Worcestershire V Yorkshire County Championship. Worcestershire County Cricket Club represents the English county of Worcestershire as part of the English and Welsh domestic cricket establishment. 11am. Tel: 01905 748474. The County Ground, New Road, Worcester, WR2 4QQ. wccc.co.uk/1st-xi-fixtures

Sunday 19th April Blossom Trail Bikeaway A sponsored bike ride through the Vale of Evesham in aid of St John Ambulance and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders. Registration 9am - 11am, start 9.30am. £8 per adult, £5 per child and £20 family (2 adults & 2 children). Tel: 01386 565564. Hampton Ferry, Evesham, WR11 2PR. www.blossom-trail.org.uk

Wednesday 15th April Club WoW - Busy Bees Get buzzing to help our pollinators here at Lower Smite Farm. A ‘Wildlife on Wednesdays’ event with plenty of games and activities. Activities designed for children aged 5-12. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No need to book.

6pm – 7.30pm. Tel: 01905 754919. £2 per child.

Wildlife Farming & Education Centre, Lower Smite Farm, Worcester, WR3 8SZ Friday 17th April Mike Hurst & the Springfields Mike Hurst is one third of the original Springfields vocal group, alongside Dusty and Tom Springfield, the first British vocal group to have a top 20 American chart hit in 1962. 8pm – 10.30pm. Tel: 01905 611427. Tickets £16.50 (concs £15).

Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester, WR1 3LD.

Thursday 23rd April St George’s Day Gourmet Dinner A truly English event! Includes a six course dinner with accompanying wines. £85.00 per person. Tel: 01562 777876. Brockencote Hall Hotel, Chaddesley Corbet, Kidderminster, DY10 4PY. www.brockencotehall.com Thursday 23rd April Great British Asparagus Run To celebrate the World’s finest grass (probably), numerous events and activities will take place during this two month long Festival that honours the growing, harvesting and eating of this sumptuous delicacy. Tel: 01386 565373. Free entry. The Cross, Bretforton, Evesham, WR11 7JE. www.britishasparagusfestival.org

Saturday 18th April Charity Casino Night Enjoy an evening of casino game fun at Victoria Park Bowls Club, Malvern. Tickets £15 include hot meal and free bag of casino chips. Smart dress code. Proceeds to Community Action. Begins 7.30 pm. Entry by ticket only from: Susie Forbes 01684 594447 or Malli Wadge 01684 565447. Victoria Park, Malvern Link, WR14 2JY.

Saturday 25th April Worcester Cats Homing Show Spring homing show at the Powick Village Hall. A chance to meet some of our wonderful cats, all looking for new, loving, long term homes. There will be stalls with cat merchandise as well as a large selection of home-baked cakes & refreshments.

Starts at 11am until 1pm. Everyone welcome. Tel: 01905 426748. Powick Parish Hall, Powick, WR2 4RT. www.worcestercats.org.uk

Sunday 19th April Dogs Unite at Jinney Ring Did you know that dog walkers spend more than 382 hours walking their pets every year? Dogs Unite is a series of sponsored dog walks taking place around the country to help Guide Dogs raise money to create more life-changing guide dog partnerships. 11am - 4pm. Full details on the Jinney

Thursday 30th April Turncoats and Renegades A talk by Dr. Andrew Hopper. A fascinating evening with this successful author and leading Civil War academic, in partnership with the Battle of Worcester Society. 7pm – 9pm. Tel: 01905 361821. Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU. www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk

39 To advertise your event,when email info@grapevinepublications.co.uk Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE responding to advertisers

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Strongest man around ... ??

The local bar was so sure that its bartender was the strongest man around that they offered a standing £1000 bet: the bartender would squeeze a lemon until all the juice ran into a glass, and hand the lemon to a patron.

Anyone who could squeeze one more drop of juice out would win the money.

Many people had tried over time: dockers, weightlifters, etc., but nobody could do it.

One day, this scrawny little fellow came into the bar, wearing thick glasses and a polyester suit, and said in a small voice, "I'd like to try the bet."

After the laughter had died down, the bartender said, "OK"; grabbed the lemon and squeezed away. Then he handed the wrinkled remains of the rind to the little fellow.

But the crowd's laughter turned to total silence as the man clenched his little fist around the lemon ... and six drops fell into the glass ...

As the crowd cheered, the bartender paid the £1000, and asked the little man: "What do you do for a living? Are you a lumberjack, a weight-lifter, or what?"

The little fellow smiled and said quietly: "I work for the Inland Revenue.”

Stockists of:

Dressmaking, patchwork and curtain fabrics as well as waddings, cutters, boards and useful craft items.

Fat quarters from £1

40

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

41

Training a Puppy to be a Guide Dog article & photos by Pamela Green

W

e all see guide dogs on our streets, leading their owners, and keeping them safe, but you can’t buy a guide dog from a shop!

So how do they become guide dogs? They have to be trained from a small puppy of around eight weeks, when they are given to a puppy walker. These are volunteers who start the initial training for the pups to become guide dogs.

Teaching a puppy to be a well-behaved guide is not an easy task. Firstly, they are trained to ignore other dogs, always walk on the left-hand side of their owner, and be obedient to every command. Feeding, training, and generally caring for a puppy's needs on a daily basis is time consuming.

The puppy will need exposure on a regular basis to busy town conditions, traffic, shops, lifts, and crowds. It will also need to be familiarized with car travel and public transport.

I met one volunteer who has trained puppies for the last eighteen years, and has found it very rewarding. Recently, on a visit to Crufts, she met up with one of the dogs she had trained some years earlier, and he 42

greeted her like a long lost friend. She stressed that it is most important for the whole family to enjoy the experience, and that a puppy needs to be reared with a blend of affection, control and supervision.

It must be so nice to know that what you are doing is really worthwhile, and to have a puppy as a constant companion. The pups stay for as long as twelve to fourteen months, but - you must always remember in the end, you will have to hand him back.

The next stage of his life will be with a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, who will complete the final stages by training the dog with a visually-impaired person.

The Guide Dogs Trust,breed a range of dogs, including Golden Retriever, Labrador and German Shepherd: the most popular breed is a Labrador-Retriever cross.

There are 4,700 guide dogs in UK who lead blind or partially sighted people, and change their lives for the better. This is all thanks to the volunteer puppy walkers, so if you feel you could be a help, then please contact them at Birmingham@guidedogs.org.uk and I’m sure they would love to talk to you.

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Driveways

Head Office Suite 119, 29-30 Horse Fair Banbury, Oxon OX16 0BW Birmingham Office 1 Longfield Close, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 0DQ Email: nwdrives@gmail.com www.nationwidedriveways.com

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Local Friendly Service ~ References Available contact Glenn Baker 01905 380128 or 07792 613020

SALLY’S Bargains 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.

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 Local Delivery Available. No reasonable offer refused.

Weather Guard

Roofing Professionals Specialists in all types of roofing, Complete Roofs, Ridge Tiles, Lead Work, Chimneys, Fascias, Soffits, Guttering, Gutter Cleaning No job too big or too small Fully guaranteed and insured Written quotes available Phone Andy on 07795 958 245 Office 01905 888322 Email info@weatherguardservices.co.uk

www.weatherguardservices.co.uk

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

43

Coffee Break Trivia (answers on page 50)

Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each line, row and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 without repetition.

4

1 9 6

4

1

7

9

5

2

8 4

9

1

4 3

7

2 8

7

6

9

1

6

3

2

4 8

3

2

1. What date is St George's Day? 2. If you were born on 1st April, what would your star sign be?

3. Where In America is the headquarters of General Motors?

4. Who was Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate in 1992?

5. Which newspaper, once the biggest selling English language newspaper in the world, ceased publication in 2011?

6. In which war was the Gatling gun first used?

7. Which country has a flag that is not rectangular?

8. Which desert covers much of Botswana and parts of Namibia?

9. Who was the 40th President of the United States?

10. Where does an arboreal creature typically live?

1

2

5 ACROSS

1 5 7 10 11 14 15 16 18 20 23 24

In writing (2,5) Quiet or suppressed laugh (7) Bashful (3) Of vital importance (7) Informal language, jargon (5) Munched (3) 2001 film about a boxing legend, starring Will Smith (3) Comic featuring Dennis the Menace (5) Post hairdresser (7) Raincoat (3) Calms, relieves (7) Dug up after burial (7)

19

4

6

DOWN

1 ___ upon a Time in America, Robert De Niro film (4) 2 Added to (4) 3 Very small (room) (4) 10 4 Vigorous folk dance (4) 6 Latin American dance (3-3) 8 Bodily injury caused by severe cold 9) 9 Relax, chill out (4,5) 14 12 Bruce ___, Chinese actor (3) 13 Grandmother (3) 17 Aimlessley drifting in a launch (6) 19 ___ of Dogs, London region (4) 18 20 Large-winged insect (4) 21 Friend, pal (4) 22 Second-hand (4)

3

7 8

11

9

12

13 15

16

17

20

21

22

23

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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Worcester Wychavon

Presents

The Flowers Band Conducted by Paul Holland

Pershore Abbey

Saturday, 18th of April at 7.30pm All seats ÂŁ15 In aid of

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

Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

45

volunte ring@ageukhw.org.uk

Make a difference ……

T

containing a yarn cone and a selection of bits and Could you spare some time once a week or ev pieces, are available from the following locations: fortnight to helpAgeaUKlonely person?

Herefordshire older & Worcestershire

he 4th Active Age Festival, organised by Age UK Hereford & Worcester, in conjunction with the University of Worcester, U3A and the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Sports Partnership, will take place on Saturday 6th June.

Malvern Gate’ Bromwich Road, WR2 4BN

We are looking for caring people who can740950 offer friendship and suppo tel: 01905 or 0800 0086077 The Festival willpeople be held at the Centre on isolated inRiverside the Pershore and Evesham areas. We offer full Worcester Resource Exchange Hylton Road, with a variety of free taster sessions Pump House Environment Centre, Waterworks expenses, events, social This activities and the to be pa and activities, information and entertainment.

Road, Barbourne, WR1opportunity 3EZ is a great opportunity to meet local clubs and tel: 01905 734934 organisation making a difference to the lives of older peop organisations in one place for activities, health and care.

For more information, please 24 Cranham Drive, WR4 9PA contact us: Age UK Worcester & District shops

59 Ambleside Drive, WR4 9DA Running up to the Festival each year there is an art, writing, or craft competition launched, which is Indy Mobility judged by a special guest at the Festival. This year’s 61 Broad Street, Worcester, WR1 3YT competition (open to anyone aged 50 or over on 6th tel: 01905 729773 June) is a craft competition called ‘Celebrity Cone Dolly’. Entrants are invited to create a model or doll The closing date for the competition is Saturday 6th Age UK & Worcestershire of their favourite celebrity using a yarn cone and Herefordshire June.

Malvern recycled bits and pieces. Entries must use a yarnGate, cone Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR 2 4BN Anyone No: who1080545 would like further information about as a base for the model, but any other materials and Charity the Active Age Festival, or the Celebrity Cone Dolly craft skills can be used.

Competition, should contact Bronwen or Sue on Celebrity Cone Dolly entry forms and ‘cone packs’, 01905 740950 or free-phone 0800 0086077

0800 008 6077

AgeUKHer fordshire&Worcestershire MalvernGate,BromwichRoad,Worcester.WR24BN CharityNo:1080545

volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk

Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire, Malvern Gate, Bromw

Gandalf, Dolly Parton, Carmen Miranda, Tweetie Pie & Sylvester made by staff of Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire from yarn cones

46

Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester, WR2 4BN To advertiseCharity call 01684 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk No:833715 1080545

e & Worcestershire, Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR2 4BN

Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire, Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR2 4BN

Make a difference ……

Could you spare some time once a week or every fortnight to help a lonely older person?

We are looking for caring people who can offer friendship and support to older, isolated people in the Pershore and Evesham areas. We offer full training, expenses, events, social activities and the opportunity to be part of an organisation making a difference to the lives of older people.

For more information, please contact us:

0800 008 6077

volunteering@ageukhw.org.uk Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire Malvern Gate, Bromwich Road, Worcester. WR 2 4BN Charity No: 1080545

*All Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken *Domestic & Commercial *Paper Hanging *Insurance Work *Airless Spraying *Plastering *Wall & Floor Tiling Free Fully Itemised Quotations

01789 762450 LOCKSMITHS and SAFE ENGINEERS • Lock sales, fitting & opening • Safe sales, fitting & opening • Key cutting • Electronic locking solutions

For a professional and reliable service please call:

• Full mobile service

CHRIS BOTTRELL

• Car key specialists

Tel: 01905 700142 Mob: 07867 813616 Fully Insured member of the Painting & Decorating Association

Unit 12, 34 Tything Road, Alcester B49 6ES Phone: 01789 762450 Fax: 01789 400799

www.alcesterlocks.co.uk

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VETS & ANIMAL CARE Evesham Bowler Lewis & Partners Tel: 01386 442804

CO

pershore Martin & Carr Tel: 01386 553631

NTACTS

UPTON-UPON-SEVERN The Stocks Veterinary Centre Tel: 01684 592606

AGE UK

RSPCA Tel: 0300 123 4999

malvern Malvern & District Tel: 01684 560666

CATS PROTECTION EVESHAM Tel: 01386 833343

EVESHAM & PERSHORE South Wychavon Tel: 01386 422700

CATS PROTECTION WORCESTER Tel: 01905 425704

UPTON-UPON-SEVERN 15 High Street Tel: 01684 593633

RSPB Tel: 01767 693690

CHEMISTS

POST OFFICES

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

EVESHAM Lloyds Parmacy Tel: 01386 48899 Morrisons Pharmacy Tel: 01385 40610

Bishampton Tel: 01386 462873

MALVERN Boots The Chemist Tel: 01684 572905 Lloyds Pharmacy Tel: 01684 573811

GREAT MALVERN Tel: 01684 573003 Inkberrow Tel: 01386 792201

FIRE BRIGADE Worcester Road, Malvern Minge Lane, Upton upon Severn Tel: 01684 572948

PERSHORE Boots The Chemist Tel: 01386 556860

Lower Moor Tel: 01386 861705

Defford Road, Pershore Tel: 01905 24454

pershore Tel: 01386 552608

Merstow Green, Evesham Tel: 01386 466388

PEOPLETON Tel: 01905 840471

WEST MERCIA POLICE Victoria Road, Malvern Station Lane, Upton Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore Abbey Road, Evesham Tel. 0300-333 3000

EVESHAM Tel: 01386 423344

UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Talbot Cooper Chemists Tel: 01684 592637

CITZENS ADVICE EVESHAM, PERSHORE & WORCESTER: Wychavon CAB Tel: 03444 111 303 MALVERN Malvern Hills CAB Tel: 01684 563611

Upton Snodsbury Tel: 01905 381511 UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 592634

TOURIST INFORMATION

EMERGENCY SERVICES POLICE FIRE AMBULANCE Emergency: 999

AMBULANCE SERVICE Victoria Road, Malvern Tel: 01684 561556

EVESHAM Tel: 01386 442348

Spetchley Road, Worcester Tel: 01905 764226

MALVERN Tel: 01684 892289

GAS Tel: 0800 111 999

Malvern Community Hospital Tel: 01684 612600

PERSHORE Tel: 01386 556591

WATER Tel: 0800 783 4444

Pershore Hospital Tel: 01386 502070

UPTON-UPON-SEVERN Tel: 01684 594200

ELECTRICITY Tel: 0800 328 1111

HOSPITALS Evesham Community Hospital Tel: 01386 502432

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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

The Cheeseboard

The Anchor Inn, Main Road, Wyre Piddle, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2JB

100 Barnard's Green, Malvern, WR14 3ND

01684 891900

Shropshire Blue

by Andrew Brooks

S

hropshire Blue - which has been described as a cross between Stilton and Cheshire - is made from pasteurized cow's milk and uses vegetable rennet; penicillium roqueforti produces the veining.

Until recently, Shropshire Blue had never been made in Shropshire. It started out as a Scottish attempt to replicate Stilton cheese but with a subtle twist of adding annatto to the milk to give it an orange hue. The cheese has a deep orange-brown natural rind, and matures for a period of 10-12 weeks, with a fat content of about 34 per cent. The result is a soft textured, mellow, blue cheese with a glorious contrast of colours between the orange hue of the curd and the delicate blue veins.

Made in a similar way to Stilton, it is a soft cheese with a sharp, strong flavour and a slightly tangy aroma. It is slightly sour but sharper than Stilton and generally creamier, and makes a great alternative to Blue Stilton.

Tel: 01386 641510 mail@anchorwyrepiddle.co.uk

Book now for Mothers Day Sunday RoastNights - 15th March Quiz April 2nd, 16th & Quiz nights - March 5th30th & 19th

Live music with ”Tasha”

Two meals for9pm £10 Friday 6th March Lunch Menu served 2 meals for £10 lunch menu Tuesday to Friday lunch served Tues-Fri lunch

NEW Take away menu Menus available on our website www.anchorwyrepiddle.co.uk

Luke's Garden Maintenance Any gardening job quoted for, including: • Fencing cutting• Fencing • Hedge Hedge cutting • Patio cleaning •  Patios laid • Decking areas • Mowing Strimming •   Patio cleaning  • • Rubbish removals • Tree Tree workwork •  Mowing  • Vegetable patches rotovated  Fence and shed painting  • • Fence and shed painting  Guttering cleaning  • • Guttering cleaning • and more...

B S

call now for a FREE, no obligation quote

Local ~ Professional ~ Reliable Find us on

Tel:

01386 244680

Find us on

Mobile: 07892447450 or email lcgardening@yahoo.co.uk

www.cheeseboardmalvern.co.uk Please mention THE WORCESTERSHIRE GRAPEVINE when responding to advertisers

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The Grapevine 01684 833715 Answers to Trivia on page 44: 1.

23rd April

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The American Civil War

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Aries

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Nepal

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Detroit

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The Kalahari

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Glenda Jackson

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Ronald Reagan

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The News of the World

10. In trees

Answers to Sudoku on page 44:

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O N P A P N L O C H U C K E S H Y F A C R U C I O H S L A N A T E A B E A N I F S T Y L I E O I M A C S O O T H L T U E X H U M

E R E L E L H A L N G L I O O S T E U E S E E D

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Accountants Crowthers 24 Focus Accountancy 29

Fireplaces TC Fireplaces Funeral Directors E Hill & Son

4 23

Bathrooms & Kitchens A Job 4 John Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors Steve Randle Installations Ltd

15 5 23 24

Bedrooms Steve Randle Installations Ltd

24

Gardening & Landscaping Bowbrook Gardens 43 Garden Machinery Mobile Service & Repair 15 Luke's Garden Maintenance 49 Styling homes and gardens 2

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Glass & Window Coating Tint Shop 15

Building & Construction Evesham Trade Centre 4 Simon Haines Construction 23

Haberdashery & Material The Fabrik Shop 40

Cars: Parts, Repairs & Sales Marshalls of Evesham Ltd 11 Tint Shop 15

15

Boiler Services Johnston Scotia

Cleaning Services Chris James Cleaning

20

Chimney Services Elite Sweeps

35

Community Services Age UK Aspen Retirement Helping Hands St Richard's Hospice The Boynes Care Centre

47 9 19 35 25

Computing & IT Services Pendas CS Ltd 35 Decorators & Painters A Job 4 John Aztec Painting & Decorating CR Decorating

15 47 20

Driveways & Paving Castle Paving 12 Nationwide Driveways 43 Pro-Smart 28 Education Open 4 Business

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Electricians Craig Merchant Electrical Marchwood Maintenance

23 40

Handyman A Job 4 John

Pet Care Cats Protection Dapper Doggies Dog Grooming by Julie Fern's Cattery Grooming at Fern's Snippets Dog Grooming

41 15 23 37 37 4

Picture Framing Huxley Imaging

19

Photography BG Digital Photographs

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Plumbing & Heating A+ Plumbing Hartley Heating & Plumbing Johnston Scotia J S Plumbing

4 19 27 29 49 21 11 2

Health & Beauty ALM Fitness The Beauty Barn

30 16

Heating & Plumbing A+ Plumbing Hartley Heating & Plumbing Johnston Scotia J S Plumbing

Pubs & Restaurants The Anchor Inn The Berkeley The Dolphin The Old Oak Inn

4 19 27 29

Roofing Services G.M. Roofing Weather Guard

37 43

Second Hand Dealers Sally's Bargains

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Interior Design & Soft Furnishings Styling homes and gardens Sunflower Soft Furnishings R P Lampshades

2 11 4

Kitchens Dream Doors Mark Ellis Interiors Steve Randle Installations Ltd

5 23 24

Locksmiths Alcester Locks

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M O T Marshalls of Evesham Ltd

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Shoes Humphries 24 Travel Agent Carrick Travel Waste Management Waste Goblin

32 2

Oven Cleaning Ovenclean 40

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Cloudy2Clear Windows 3 ETC Windows, Doors & Conservatories 8 Tint Shop 15

Pershore Retail Market Cafe on the Corner 52 Serenity 52 Studio 4 52

Wood Burning Stoves Chase Heating 10 Elite Stoves 35 TC Fireplaces 4

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Pershore Retail Market Cherry Orchard, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1EY 01386 553232 www.pershoremarket.com

Cafe on the Corner

Tea & Coffee  Breakfast Lunch  Hot & Cold Snacks Monday 9am-2 pm Tues-Sat 8.30am -4.30pm

Tel: 07541 020627

Serenity Full range of luxurious beauty treatments at an affordable price

Tel: 01386 555693

Studio 4

loon Unisex hairsa necessary t no ts en appointm to Thurs 9am-5pm Tues iday 9am-6.30pm Fr turday 8.30am-2pm Sa

Tel: 01386 554756

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