Life in the Village - Cotswold Edge - Early Spring 2019

HOMES

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WILDLIFE

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LEISURE

EARLY SPRING 2019 FREE

COTSWOLD EDGE

Nature’s

STUNNING SNOWDROPS Birlingham Bulb Festival

NATURAL SOLUTIONS

Bring the spirit of spring to your hair

TRAPPED IN BLACK?

Personal style solutions

Fishermen

WORCESTERSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST ON LIFE DOWN BY THE RIVER

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EDITOR’S LETTER What’s fresh for you this spring? I’m a huge fan of change, especially in the form of learning, and I’m only ever satisfied when I feel my life is moving forward. I read and listen to podcasts a lot, always looking for new ideas about the best ways to live and work.

I love how small changes can make a big difference and it’s a standing joke in my family that I’m constantly adjusting my habits to try and make things better. I like to add things rather than take them away but if I’m honest, my latest attempt - more alcohol free days - began as a guilt ridden response to Dry January. I love a glass of red, especially that first mellow sip, so no-one has been more surprised than me by the outcome. It’s led to the deepest sleep I’ve had in ages and even greater pleasure when I do drink so it turns out less really is more.

This edition we bring you lots that’s new including recipes, giveaways and a personal style column from Kate Evans. We welcome contributions on local country life so if you have an idea you’d like to see included please email me at lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk For more inspiration and daily updates please join us on twitter @lisalambon or visit www ww ww.lifeinthevillage.co.uk w Enjoy the sunshine and daffodils…

Lisa Lambon Publishing Editor

01684 773 135 07776 340 736 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk @lisalambon 4

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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EARLY SPRING 2019

Contents Enter our three new competitions online COMPETITIONS & OFFERS

LOCAL LIFE

LOCAL LIFE

23 Win one of ten pairs of tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival

10 Nature’s fishermen Expert guidance from Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

34 Go blossom spotting Enjoy a trail through the Vale of Evesham

21 Spring inspiration With RHS Malvern Spring Festival

36 Birlingham snowdrops Enjoy the stunning display

39 Win one of 25 pairs of tickets to Crafting Live Malvern 63 Win one of ten pairs of tickets to Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair

25 Future proof With Aveda hair colour specialist Graham West

64 Money saving vouchers HOMES

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26 First ever Beltane Festival Enjoy a new family event to mark the start of summer

2019 FREE EARLY SPRING

BREDON

STUNNING SNOWDROPS

Birlingham Bulb Festival

28 Asparamadness Help turn the Vale ‘green for the gras.’

NATURAL SOLUTIONS

of Bring the spirit spring to your hair

TRAPPED IN BLACK?

Nature’s

Fishermen

Personal style solutions

31 The style coach Behind the scenes with new columnist Kate Evans

E WILDLIFE TRUST WORCESTERSHIR

BY THE RIVER ON LIFE DOWN

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Fishermen TRUST E TRU LDLIFE E WILDLIF WORCESTERSHIR

BY THE RIVER ON LIFE DOWN

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33 Trapped in black?

Personal style solutions from K Kate Evans

LEISURE

TRAPPED IN BLACK?

Personal style solutions

HOMES

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BY THE RIVER ON LIFE DOWN

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Personal style solutions

NG STUNNIN PS SNOWDROP

ulb Birlingham Bu Festiival

R NATURAL ONS SOLUTIO

of Bring the spiriit spring to your hair

43 Light + luxury Create a new room in your garden 45 Satisfaction guaranteed Sidestepping job dissatisfaction with HR expert Kirsten Cluer 46 Chocolate two ways Two new recipes from Belle House 53 New season at NT Coughton Court Enjoy a spring day out 54 My kind of plate Chef interview with Anuj Thakur, Executive Chef at Tewkesbury Park Hotel

2019 FREE EARLY SPRING

EDGE COTSWOLD

ng Brin spriing

TRAPPED IN BLACK?

41 Personal pet care The importance of connections with vet Brad Cooper

STUNNING SNOWDROPS Birlingham Bulb Festival

NATURAL SOLUTIONS

of Bring the spirit spring to your hair

TRAPPED IN BLACK?

Personal style solutions

Nature’s

Fishermen

E WILDLIFE WORCESTERSHIR DOWN BY TRUST ON LIFE THE RIVER

56 Roses – a beginner’s guide Plant roses this spring to enjoy this summer 58 Make Mum’s day Spring recipes from Brockmans Black Book of Gin Cocktails 65 Index

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Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

Entertainment In Tewkesbury

The Roses offers a huge selection of live shows, films and activities to enjoy and take part in. Explore the full fantastic line-up at www.rosestheatre.org

Live Event Highlights

Cate Cody • Sun 3 Mar 2pm (in bar) Jazz music with a local trio

Lady Sings The Blues • Sat 9 Mar 7.30pm Val Wiseman sings the music of Billie Holiday

Cara Dillon • Sat 16 Mar 7.30pm Popular Irish folk singer

Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle • Fri 22 Mar 7.30pm The definitive modern folk band

Terry Pratchett’s® Wyrd Sisters Sat 23 Mar & Sun 24 Mar Tewkesbury Arts & Drama Society

Dancing Queen • Fri 29 Mar 7.30pm

Greatest hits from Abba, Grease and the 70s

The Chris Barber Big Band • Fri 5 Apr 7.30pm Big Girls Don’t Cry • Fri 12 & Sat 13 Apr 7.30pm The music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Beauty & The Beast • Tues 16 Apr 3pm & 7pm Spectacular Easter family pantomime

The Bohemians • Thur 18 Apr 7.30pm A killer tribute to Queen

Walk Right Back • Fri 19 Apr 7.30pm The story of the Everly brothers

Tom Jones & The Shades of the 60s Thur 25 Apr 7.30pm Strictly Ann • Fri 26 Apr 7.30pm

An evening in the company of Ann Widdecombe

Image: Daniel Chettoe as Tom Jones

WILDLIFE

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Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

WILDLIFE

Nature’s

Fishermen Dust off your walking boots, dig out your binoculars and head out for a walk by the water this spring. Riverbanks and wetlands are great places to watch for the electric blue flash of a kingfisher and much more, suggests local wildlife expert Wendy Carter of Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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WILDLIFE Kingfishers. Credit: Jon Hawkins SurreyHillsPhotography Inset: Kingfisher. Credit: Karen Summers

Bobby Dazzler The jewel-like kingfisher is one of our most stunning birds; its luminosity is the stuff of legends. Stories of old tell us that this small bird, just 16cm long, was once plain grey. However, when one individual flew too close to the sun, its belly took on the amber of its rays and its back the blue of the sky.

Most of us only get to see an occasional fleeting glimpse of these cobalt bullets as they pass through the air. With their vivid azure backs and deep turquoise wings, orange cheeks and belly and pure white neck, their plumage is an electric combination. You can distinguish the sexes by taking a closer look at their lower bill – it’s red rather than solid black in the female (as if she’s wearing lipstick). However, it is possible to get a more satisfying sighting of them locally.

In our area kingfishers can commonly be found on most brooks and rivers like the Piddle or the 12

Avon as well as at larger ponds and lakes. They love quiet waters and slow moving streams. They need a nearby bank in which to nest and trees that overhang the water from which to fish. Kingfishers are birds with tremendous patience and they will hover or perch on projecting twigs and branches at length, waiting for the perfect opportunity to grab a bite to eat, before plunging into the water. Look out for sites that meet this criteria when you’re out walking; listen carefully and

you may get advance notice of one of them coming along – a high, elongated whistle or ‘peeeeep’. If you’re lucky you can follow the sound and spot where it lands.

The favourite prey of kingfishers is small fish but they’ll happily eat invertebrates that live in the water too. They have a habit of bashing their victim, held firm in their long sharp beak, on a branch to subdue or kill it before swallowing it down head-first. When a male bird is trying to impress a female, he’ll spin the fish around in his beak so that he presents it to her head-on.

Once kingfishers have paired up, they build a nest together by excavating a tunnel and chamber in a vertical riverbank then lining it with regurgitated fish bones.

Females lay up to seven eggs at a time and will use their nest for two or three broods a year, which makes raising kingfishers a messy business!

For this reason, it’s not uncommon for the adult birds to dive straight into the water to wash following a feeding session.

Amazingly, a brood of young kingfishers can demand more than

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

WILDLIFE Grey heron on nest in Offenham.

Credit: Colin Allen

a hundred fish a day from their parents. Unlike many other species, the nestlings take it in turns to eat so the youngest of the brood doesn’t necessarily go hungry.

Fortunately, the days are gone when kingfishers were hunted for fashion. Prized for the purity of their colour, they were in demand from taxidermists and milliners who used their feathers to adorn ladies’ hats. However, the conservation status of kingfishers is still Amber, which means that their population is vulnerable. They certainly suffer in floods and freezing weather and are also susceptible to habitat degradation such as pollution or the unsympathetic management of riverbanks.

and I had the chance to observe it properly. It was almost like seeing it for the first time; they are much more beautiful than a quick glance would have you believe.

At just short of a metre tall, the grey heron is one of our biggest, and most unmistakeable, birds. They have long legs that enable them to wade through mud and water and a strong dagger-like beak that allows them to seize and hold onto their prey. Their colour is wonderfully

Grumpy uncle Herons had always struck me as being like a grumpy old uncle – they ‘bark’ rather than sing, are muted in colour and quite serious. As birds go, they can live to a ripe old age; the oldest recorded grey heron was over 23. However, a couple of years ago, I was lucky enough to find myself close to a hunting heron lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Grey heron on fence.

Credit: Terry Whittaker 2020VISION

varied, encompassing a myriad of shades of grey, with dashes of black and streaks of white; the black and white pattern on the front of their neck and breast is thought to break up their shadow on the water.

Adult herons also have longer looser feathers, or plumes, that hang over their folded wings and a lengthy black crest that droops down the back of their neck. When they display to either an aggressor or potential partner, they can fluff up their breast, throat and crest feathers making them look even more impressive.

If you catch sight of a heron on the riverbank – they can often be seen along the Avon - you’ll probably spy an elongated neck and a head held high as the bird surveys its domain and keeps an eye out for potential food. If you spot a heron in flight, the first thing you’re likely to notice is its huge wingspan, in the region of two metres across. You will also see its peculiar flying position – note how far the head and neck is pulled back and body hunched, leaving it with no option but to trail its legs behind.

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WILDLIFE Grey heron on snow.

Credit: Terry Whittaker 2020VISION

The eyes of herons are set wide, not only to enable them to look through water to find their food but also to help them accurately judge how the refraction of the water affects the depth and position of their prey. Herons are not fussy eaters. Fish are the first, obvious choice but they’ll also feed on frogs, newts and ducklings. They will even stalk small mammals on land if they think there’s a chance of catching them. Usually quite solitary birds, they almost always hunt alone.

Grey Heron.

Credit: Terry Whittaker 2020VISION

Perhaps the most amazing fact about herons is that they nest in trees. Their nests consist of one metre-wide platforms made of twigs.

They build them early so by late February, most nests will already have eggs in them. More often than not, herons nest communally but sadly heronries are not as commonly found in Worcestershire as they once were. That said, we were delighted to have an entry to our photo competition last year from a gentleman in Offenham who

photographed one in a neighbour’s garden. The photo went on to win him a place in our 2019 calendar.

In the past herons had a mixed fate. During the Middle Ages they were eaten at royal feasts and, like swans, they were deemed royal birds, meaning the Crown decided their fate. Historically, laws forbade the capturing of herons by any means except falconry or long bow and the poaching of herons in Scotland could lose you your hand, yet hunting them with peregrine falcons was considered ‘the’ sport, so long as you had authority to take part. Today, thankfully, herons are a protected species and it is illegal to kill them.

Snow-white interloper Little egrets are small white herons, roughly 60cm tall, with rather smart white plumes of feathers on their back, chest and crest during the breeding season. Their black legs are adorned with bright yellow feet and their bills are black, a featured that distinguishes them from the much larger great white egret, which is rarely seen in Worcestershire.

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Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

WILDLIFE Little egret.

Credit: Dennis Capewell Inset: Little egret Credit: Wendy Carter

Watching little egrets can be amusing. They waggle their feet around in the mud to try and disturb fish and other potential prey. Watching closely, they spot any movement then stab their head into the water to catch their meal.

Most food is downed quickly with only bigger items of prey causing a commotion but on more than one occasion I’ve seen a little egret shake its head as though questioning why it was born a bird that has to catch its food underwater!

Little egrets have only been common in the UK for a few years; the first recorded sighting in Worcestershire was 1992 at Bredon’s Hardwick. Although historical records showed odd birds turned up in the UK occasionally, it wasn’t until 1996 that they first bred on our shores. It is the change in our climate that has enabled them to expand their range from Europe, through France and into Britain.

Since their arrival, numbers have increased tremendously and they’re now a relatively common sight in Worcestershire. Whilst they’re normally only seen in ones or twos,

in September 2017 at Grimley, just outside Worcester, a total of thirteen little egrets were counted. That same year, little egrets were recorded at Ripple Pits, near Upton upon Severn, almost every month.

Like grey herons, little egrets nest communally in trees. Unlike grey herons and kingfishers, which may only leave their territories to find food when the weather turns to ice and snow, little egrets are migratory.

In the past, this has seen them head to the warmer climes of southern Europe and North Africa but more recently some birds have spent their winter with us. In fact, many of

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Worcestershire’s recorded birds are from late summer when it seems likely that juvenile little egrets from nests in southern England disperse to find their own patches. It must only be a matter of time before they breed in our county.

As little egret numbers are expanding, the species is not currently of conservation concern but this wasn’t always the case. Like kingfishers, they have been hunted in the past, particularly in the Victorian period. In the 1880s, it’s estimated that five million birds a year, globally, were being killed for the fashion industry and northwest Europe saw the last of its little egrets. Their beautiful neck plumes were considered a highly desirable hat ornament and at one time they were more valuable than gold. Even worse, these birds were targeted during the breeding season, when their crests and plumes were at their finest, meaning their eggs and chicks were also condemned to death.

Fortunately, protection campaigns arose in many countries and, as we can see on our own patch today, little egrets have bounced back.

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WILDLIFE Kingfisher. Credit: Dawn Monrose

Enjoying nature’s fishermen Where you should hang out and how you can help: If you’re lucky, a walk along the Avon, Severn or your local brook may reward you with all three species but take note of the habitat you’re walking through.

Kingfishers will need branches whereas herons and egrets need shallower areas. n Try spotting birds at viewpoints across rivers and wetlands as well as on walks – Avon Meadows in Pershore, Bredon’s Hardwick, Ripple Pits, NT Croome or our nature reserves at Hill Court Farm, near Longdon, or Upton Warren, near Bromsgrove, are all rich in wildlife. n Keep a lookout for large birds looking rather incongruous in trees – they may just be nesting there. n Think about your actions at home and whether they affect the environment that our wildlife needs to stay healthy. Use phosphate-free washing liquids and ensure your washing machine is properly plumbed.

Check that any oil or septic tanks are properly sealed, not leaking into the ground and, ultimately, into local watercourses. n Support our work so that we can help wildlife on our reserves and in local communities – please come along to our events, buy our gifts or join as a member.

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Find out more www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife/species-explorer for help with identifying wildlife 16

Thur 21st Feb – Wild Boar in the Forest of Dean, Wulstans Hall, Pershore. 7.30pm, £2.50 Sat 2nd & Sun 3rd Mar – Log and woodchip sale at Tiddesley Wood, Pershore. 10am-1pm 7th Mar – The Secret Life of the Adders, The Lyttleton Rooms, Malvern. 7.30pm, £2.50 20th Mar – Wild on Wednesdays – Top Trunks Tree Trail family activities. Lower Smite Farm. 6pm, £2 20th Mar – Return of the Pine Marten - Bishop Allenby Hall, Worcester. 7.30pm, £2.50 21st Mar – Weevil in a Haystack – Wulstans Hall, Pershore. 7.30pm, £2.50 4th Apr – Ancient Woodland Plants and their Conservation – The Lyttleton Rooms, Malvern. 7.30pm, £2.50 Wed 17th Apr – Scottish Wildcat Project – Bishop Allenby Hall, Worcester. 7.30pm, £2.50 Sun 5th May – Tiddesley Wood Open Day, Pershore.

10am-5pm, £3 adults, £1 children

www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/whats-on Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

WILDLIFE Grey heron with Newt. Credit: Wendy Carter

Heron’s nests consist of one metre-wide platforms made of twigs

Get involved Pledge a Patch for wildlife www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/pledgeapatch n Nominate your Worcestershire Wildlife Hero www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk/wildlife-heroes n

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Saturday 2nd March 10.30am to 4pm Society & trade displays Re-potting & advice Orchids & garden plants for sale

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Bredon’s Norton Lambing Day Come and see the newborn lambs, pigs, cows and chickens Refreshments Tombola Free parking Adults £4 Children £2 Family Ticket £10 Home Farm Bredon’s Norton Tewkesbury GL20 7HA 18

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EVENTS

LITV PROMOTION

A line-up of the small-screen’s biggest names in gardening and food will wow the crowds as this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival, 9th to 12th May, takes visitors through the lens, in association with Great Little Breaks The largest RHS show outside London and the first major RHS show of the year, the family-friendly event includes expert advice, inspirational floristry displays, award-winning show gardens, and some of the best shopping, food and drink around.

Gardeners’ World favourite Monty Don will be returning to the event together with some of his famous co-presenters from the hit BBC show including Joe Swift and plantswoman par excellence, Carol Klein.

Green-fingered DJ Jo Whiley will be making her RHS Malvern debut, along with Frances Tophill, the fresh young face of gardening.

Inspiration for the 2019 festival comes from the silver collide process, which has been used in photography for 180 years. In celebration of this anniversary the theme will be looking through the lens to capture a moment in time.

The highly-anticipated gardening and food festival, seen by many

Photo credit: Marsha Arnold

as the official start of spring, attracts more than 100,000 people annually. Visitors flock to see its inspirational show gardens and beautiful Floral Marquee, get top tips from the experts and enjoy the best food and drink that Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire has to offer.

Other well-known faces include TV presenter Chris Beardshaw, The

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Big Allotment Challenge’s Jonathan Moseley and leading plantswoman and author Sarah Raven.

Advance tickets are now on sale, with prices starting at just £19 for RHS and Three Counties members, or £21 for the general public.

Children under 16 go free. Group tickets are also available.

For further information, visit www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

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PRIZE DRAW

Win one of ten pairs of tickets to RHS Malvern Spring Festival 9th-12th May WHERE SPRING BEGINS Set against the magnificent Malvern Hills, our spring festival is packed with flowers, food, crafts and family fun. See cutting-edge show gardens by top designers and channel your inner horticulturist in our Green Living Spaces. Head to our theatres for talks from celebs, expert gardeners and chefs.

Whether you own a large vegetable plot, tend an allotment or just have a few pots on your windowsill, there’s something for every kitchen, garden and budget. www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

by Friday 19th April 2019 and enter your details as requested.

Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Competition closes on 19/4/19. Winners will be notified by email by 24/4/19 and tickets, valid for Sat 11th May 2019 only, posted out. Judges’ decision is final. Not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.

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HAIR & BEAUTY

LITV PROMOTION

Future proof Bring the spirit of spring to your hair suggests Aveda colour specialist Graham West The onset of spring – the season of renewal often brings a powerful urge to reassess. Staying current by constantly moving forward is one of the key ways you can avoid getting stuck in a hair rut.

Sometimes, we’re ready for a complete transformation but change doesn’t have to be dramatic. If you’ve settled on a style that you feel happy with for now, subtle tweaks to your cut or colour can keep you looking fresh.

A belief in renewal is central to our salon. Behind the scenes, we plan, consult and review on a weekly basis to ensure we offer the best services we can. As part of this commitment, we invest heavily in training. All of us regularly visit the Aveda Academy in London to hone our skills and we also take part in events such as London Fashion Week. As a result, we’re experts in all aspects of cut and colour, including male grooming, ecliptingTM and balayage, the French art of free hand colouring.

In recent weeks, I’ve been delighted to be appointed as an Aveda colour ‘purefessional’. This comes after years spent cutting and colouring in salons in London and the Cotswolds, plus stage and show work. It means I now spend a few hours each week as an Aveda educator, sharing skills with

Book your complimentary hair consultation for Aveda samples, a skin test & advice colleagues at the Aveda Academy and in salons across the UK, as well as with my team here.

Being a great hairdresser requires technical skill and more, most of all the ability to listen. If you’d like to reassess your cut and colour we

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

invite you to visit the salon and ‘interview’ us, to ensure you feel comfortable before we touch your hair. Call today on 01386 860361 to book your complimentary hair care consultation with skin test and Aveda samples.

Aveda Hair Colour Specialists Aveda exclusive salon | 3 late nights | free parking

Call 01386 860 361 or book online weareyourtribesalon Craycombe Farm, Evesham Rd, Fladbury, Pershore WR10 2QS

www.weareyourtribe.co.uk | www.aveda.co.uk

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EVENTS

First ever Beltane Festival Enjoy a new family event from Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust at Greystones, Bourton-on-the-Water Saturday 27th April 2019, 5-9pm

Activities, music, refreshments and the traditional burning of a wicker man will be enjoyed by visitors at the first-ever Beltane Festival at Greystones, Bourton-on-the-Water, on Saturday 27th April.

Entertainment will include Iron Age cooking workshops, Iron Age blacksmithing demonstrations, an exhibition of Iron Age hunting tools and equipment, weaving and spinning demonstrations, falconry,

26

wattle and daub making, children’s maypole dancing, and live music performed by the band Brocc.

The festival will take place from 5pm to 9pm and people of all ages are welcome. The Greystones café will be open, serving hearty and warming drinks and snacks such as hot dogs, soup, hot chocolate and sweet treats. There will also be a licensed bar.

“Beltane is an ancient festival which marks the beginning of the summer. Traditionally bonfires were lit to nurture crops and to protect the community. As Greystones has a history stretching back 6,000 years, we are marking the coming of the new season with this exciting new event,” says Lenka Cmelakova, Visitor Centre Manager at Greystones.

Early-bird tickets are now on sale from www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust. co.uk/events adults £17, children (under 16) £12; there is no charge for children under the age of three.

Greystones is a pioneering visitor centre run by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust offering a wide range of wildlife, history and farming activities throughout the year.

This has been made possible through funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Grundon Waste Management, other supporters and dozens of volunteers.

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

MONARCH HOME IMPROVEMENTS helping you create a home you love Expand your living space this spring

Windows, doors & bi-folds | Conservatories & orangeries Garage doors & conversions | Fascias, soffits & guttering | Home extensions

Call Neil Hunt for a free survey 07970 979831 | 01386 861256 ww www ww.monarchhomeimprovements-evesham.co.uk w

EVENTS

LITV PROMOTION

Turning the Vale “Green for the Gras”

The Vale of Evesham continues to celebrate its horticultural heritage and delight in showing off its famous asparagus. Now part of the elite group of PGI protected foods, it has achieved a level of culinary prestige and superiority.

St George’s Day sees the launch of the British Asparagus Festival in the Vale of Evesham – from

then until 21st June the whole area will be going asparamad and turning “Green for the Gras” with a profusion of events that will provide numerous opportunities to taste, buy, cook and learn about this most sought after delicacy.

For further information call 01386 565373 or visit www.britishasparagusfestival.org

Photo credits: Angela Taylor & Stuart Purfield

An abundance of Asparamadness is about to invade the Vale of Evesham from 23rd April. Don’t miss it suggests Angela Taylor

Asparadates Tuesday 23rd April Great English Asparagus Run from The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Sunday 12th May Asparagus Sunday Lunch, Eckington Manor Thursday 9th and Thursday 16th May Asparabus Coach Tours Sunday 19th May Asparagus Family Colour Fun Run, The Valley, Evesham Thursday 23rd May Asparagus Evening at The Evesham Hotel Sunday 26th May and Sunday 2nd June Famous Asparagus Auctions at The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Monday 27th May Asparagus Fun Day, The Fleece Inn, Bretforton

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Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

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Golden Egg Trail 17 – 22 APRIL 2019 Follow the bunny trail in search of the Golden Egg and claim a yummy Easter reward FREE trail ’s w ith child n o si admis

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STYLE

Behind the scenes with our new columnist Kate Evans, Image Consultant and Coach 10 things about me…

1 I was born in Oxford and grew up on a farm.

2 I was the World Pooh Stick Champion in 1987 and this was reported in the New York Times!

3 I love fashion, styling and the creative process of helping people feel good about themselves through the clothes they wear. More importantly, I love combining my knowledge and experience as a Coach and Image Consultant to help others gain clarity about themselves, their style, their brand and where they are going in life.

4 I spent six months in Zimbabwe when I was 18, teaching in a remote school. Best thing I’ve ever done.

5 I began as a primary school teacher but left the profession in 2004. At this time my mum had her ‘colours done’ which I found so fascinating it sparked my second career.

6 I trained with Colour Me Beautiful and after working as an Image Consultant for four years, wanted to offer more depth to my service, so in 2009 I studied to be a life coach at the University of Newcastle.

7 I was a classical singer and have performed at the Royal Festival Hall, The Royal Albert Hall and with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

8 My father was killed on our farm when I was 25. A horrendous loss and it’s had a huge and far reaching effect on our family ever since.

9 I love antiques fairs, salvage yards and junk shops and literally get breathless with excitement as I walk around them.

10 I have two girls aged six and nine. I manage my work alongside them, but prioritise being a mum during their holidays - that’s my work/life balance. www.kate-evans.co.uk

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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Feb 15th Mar 15th

NEW TIME:

May 17th Sep 20th Oct 18th Nov 29th

Fridays 4pm - 5:30pm

Crafts • Games • Drama Food • Singing • Stories

Bredon Village Hall, Main Road, GL20 7QN Run by local churches for more info call 01684 772818

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STYLE

Trapped in black?

A recent survey found that 41% of our wardrobes are made up of black clothes.

Sound familiar asks Kate Evans?

On average, each of us owns five black tops, three black pairs of trousers, two black skirts, one little black dress and four pairs of black shoes.

Some of us shop for black as it’s safe and many items don’t come in any other colour. Others feel it’s slimming but there’s a problem with black. It just doesn’t suit everyone.

With colour, the theory is that the ones that suit you best will help you to achieve an overall “look”, creating synergy between your hair, eye and skin tones and your outfit. Dressing in the ‘wrong’ colour can either make you look pale and drawn, or create a ‘lollipop effect’, as if your head is stuck on top of your body, with no link to your clothes colours.

Many people think of black as a wardrobe staple, the perfect neutral, because it goes with so many other colours. However, it’s easy to get so used to seeing yourself in it that you don’t question whether it actually suits you.

Often in private consultations, I’ll show clients what black looks like next to their face, pointing out how it can highlight dark circles and flaws. I then show them alternative colours which reflect the right light onto their face, helping them look well and rested. It always results is

Brown, olive green, navy and charcoal grey are fabulous teamed with brighter colours audible gasps!!

The only women that black flatters are those with dark hair and dark eyes, dark hair and bright blue

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

eyes, or silver hair. This is because black harmonises and balances with their natural colouring.

If your hair isn’t these colours, there are some great alternatives.

Brown, olive green, navy and charcoal grey are fabulous teamed with brighter colours. Dark purple or damson are also useful neutrals, offering that slimming effect without being black.

So next time you reach for that new black purchase, think again; should I really be wearing this?

What would be a better alternative? www.kate-evans.co.uk 33

EVENTS

No matter what your mode of transport this spring, make sure you explore the blossoming Vale of Evesham suggests Angela Taylor There is nowhere better to experience fruit blossom than here in the Vale of Evesham which boasts the UK’s only blossom trail.

For a few short weeks between mid March and mid May, the beautiful countryside bursts into life and the roadsides are ablaze with colour – the soft pink tones of cherry and apple blossom mixed with striking white blooms of plums and pears.

34

Even after more than 35 years, the enchanting trail that crisscrosses the river Avon and meanders through idyllic villages still attracts thousands of visitors. A 50 mile AA A signposted route takes in open countryside, towns and villages which can be explored by car, coach, bike or on foot. Many of the farm shops, nurseries, pubs and eateries along the way have created products and dishes featuring blossom fruits.

Blossom bikeaway Come and explore the blossom by bike on Sunday 7th April.

Setting off from Hampton Ferry in Evesham, the ride offers a fun family day out whilst also raising funds for local charities. There is the option of three routes that vary in intensity and distance; 11, 26 or 57 miles.

Why not enjoy the experience with friends and family whilst taking in the beautiful scenery? For more

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

EVENTS Photo credits: Angela Taylor & Stuart Purfield

information please visit ww www ww.bikeawayv w yventures.co.uk v or email bikeaway40@yahoo.co.uk Spring time in the Vale coach tours Dudley’s Coaches and Evesham Vale Tour Guides are once again offering their popular tours on Thursday 11th and 18th April.

With a blossom tour guide who will highlight the best viewpoints and provide historical and entertaining insights, this is a great value day out not to be missed.

Pick up points are sited at various locations throughout the county.

For more information and to book your seat call 01386 792206 or visit ww www ww.eveshamval w aletourguides.co.uk. l

best locations to witness the Vale’s stunning blooms; a virtual guide can be found at www ww ww.valeandspa.co.uk w or order a free copy from Amy Miles

at 01386 5655564. For any queries about our spring events please contact Angela Taylor on 01386 565373.

Image Supplied by Vale Landscape Heritage Trust

Monitoring the blossom Blossom doesn’t last long so it is important to plan your trip. We have carefully crafted a blossom trail guide that will provide you with the lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

35

EVENTS

Birlingham Snowdrops Caryl Mills invites you to enjoy the stunning display of bulbs in the churchyard of St James in Birlingham, near Pershore Families, walkers and nature lovers are invited to enjoy the final weekend of the monthlong celebration of Birlingham Snowdrops at St James churchyard.

Every winter, the display draws visitors from all over the county and beyond, some returning each year, to admire the church and flowers and perhaps take a stroll around the lovely village. Dogs are welcome too.

Each weekend during February teas are served in the village hall, opposite the historic church. The church was rebuilt in 1871-72, with the original Norman chancel arch bring rebuilt outside to form an unusual entrance to the churchyard. This year the last set of teas will be served on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th February between 11am and 4pm. The cakes are all homemade by the

villagers and are as big a draw as the flowers.

For those whose would like to take a memento home, snowdrops and crocus plants are available to buy as well as greeting cards, tea towels, preserves and second hand books. If you are a local trader or crafter with homemade items for sale, we may be able to support you by offering a table. All funds raised go to the Friends of St James to support the preservation of the church, the oldest and most distinguished building in the village.

The celebration of bulbs dates back almost 150 years to the 1870’s when Ellen Duke, daughter of the then vicar, Reverend Robert Rashleigh Duke, supervised the planting of spring bulbs in the churchyard. Miss Duke, a student of botany, tended the churchyard right thorough until the 1930’s

and the bulbs planted under her direction have continued to multiply over the decades.

Today, Miss Duke rests among the winter aconites which precede a carpet of tens of thousands of snowdrops. These are followed by crocus (white or purple but never yellow), narcissi, scilla, primroses and cyclamen, giving weeks of colour. This stunning display shines through the winter gloom, but a sunny day offers photographers the best opportunity to take some amazing shots.

Find St James churchyard on Church Lane, Birlingham, near Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 3AB. The timing of the bub display varies each year according to the weather. For more information please call Caryl Mills on 01386 751748 or 07766 65766 or visit www.birlingham.org

The cakes are all homemade by the villagers and are as big a draw as the flowers 36

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

LC MILLAR & SONS LTD

Custom built with local expertise Local family-run business established over 40 years Highly experienced in all aspects of construction Specialists in Cotswold stone Complete service from design to completion Extensions, renovations, alterations and new build Ground works, drainage and landscaping Domestic and commercial Please contact Eamon Millar 07973 427040 Lawrence Millar 07976 738705 Office 01386 725392 38

e-mail: millarandsons@btconnect.com THE OLD DAIRY, KEMERTON, TEWKESBURY GL20 7JB

PRIZE DRAW

Win one of 25 pairs of tickets to Crafting Live Malvern on 23rd & 24th March ENJOY A DAY OF CRAFTING Stephanie Weightman’s award winning Crafting Live is returning to Malvern with a host of celebrity crafters. The show features an array of exhibitors stocking stamps, dies, decoupage, fabric, wool, ribbon, beads and much more. Stock up on all of your craft essentials, find inspiration from brand new products and watch on-stand demonstrations. There will be a free make and take area, mini workshops, refreshments and a chance to relax. Discover more at www.craftinglive.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

by Wednesday 13th March 2019 and enter your details as requested.

Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Draw closes on 13/3/19 and the winners will be notified by email by 15/3/19. E-tickets valid for either date will be emailed by 19/3/19. Judges’ decision is final. Prize not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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Hard Landscaping  Garden Makeovers  Garden learance  Ground Maintenance Fencing • Turfing • Decking • Patios • Block Paving • Groundworks inc. Levelling & Terracing Tree Felling • Ground Maintenance • Soil & Hardcore Removal • Logs & Top Soil For Sale sta lis ed

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PET CARE

LITV PROMOTION

Personal pet care The importance of personal connections with vet Brad Cooper The veterinary profession has seen huge change since my family took over the original Folly Gardens’ clinic in Tewkesbury in 2006.

Back then, most practices were small and traditional, owned and managed by a single vet who lived locally. Today, many clinics operate under the umbrella of a large group.

Our lovely team of vets, qualified veterinary nurses, animal nursing assistants and receptionists have been hand-picked. We are an independent family-owned practice and because of this our vets have clinical freedom when putting together treatment plans or choosing medication.

Our approach is a personal one.

We encourage our clients at be involved in the decision making about their pets at every stage to ensure they receive a tailor-made service. It’s important to us that clients form a trusted relationship with their vet - we see every day how that connection can positively impact the health of the animals we care for.

We are proud of our loyal and friendly staff. Since 2006, their

It’s important to us that clients form a trusted relationship with their vet

incredible support has enabled us to grow into a team of 37, with four clinics across Gloucestershire and a mobile consulting service. As a stable team, we offer continuity of care; pets and owners can see the same vet each time they visit.

Clients coming to our clinics will see familiar faces and build up a rapport with the whole team.

The services we offer are practical and affordable. Joining our Folly Care Club gives you a simple, money-saving way to provide your pet with the best preventative care. It’s not pet insurance but a health plan covering regular items such as vaccinations, flea, worm and parasite treatments, health checks and discounts. Our plan is designed to adapt to your pet’s needs from birth through to their senior years. Please find full details on our website.

For help and advice on any pet issue please call our friendly team.

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Tewkesbury 01684 292244 Bishop’s Cleeve, Cheltenham 01242 679880 Leckhampton, Cheltenham NEW! 01242 234392 Home Visits 01684 292244

41

bereavementsupport SOUTHWORCESTERSHIRE

Adult bereavement support in South Worcestershire offering one to one and couples counselling, group work and telephone support

Support is available to anyone registered with a South Worcestershire GP Evesham, Worcester, Malvern, Droitwich, Pershore and surrounding areas.

Bereavement Support South Worcestershire www.bereavementsupportworcestershire.org.uk St Richard’s Hospice Wildwood Drive Worcester WR5 2QT

Phone: 01905 760934 Fax: 01905 760935 Email: bssw@worcestershire.nhs.uk

Funded by the South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group and hosted by St Richard’s Hospice Charity No 515668 42

South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group

HOMES

LITV PROMOTION

Light + Luxury Create a fresh new living space, personal to you, suggests John Lannen A glass garden building brings all the benefits of a conservatory and can be put anywhere you like. With a wide choice of designs it’s easy to build a light, warm and secure space to meet your needs.

A place to unwind Sit down, pour yourself a G&T, sip, read and relax‌ a garden pavilion allows you to enjoy your garden all

year round. Optional windows, roof vents, heating and air con means a comfortable temperature, whatever the weather.

A garden office Get inspired with a new clutter free work zone, a dedicated base from which to build your business (and no commute). Ideal for entrepreneurs, health and beauty professionals and creatives.

A growing room Create a light and airy growing environment, perfect for nurturing seeds, plugs and tender plants. Plus extend your growing season right through into winter.

Installation is easy, onto an existing patio or deck, and takes our skilled teams just one or two days.

As a family company, L+L believes in delivering high quality products and impeccable service at an affordable price. All products are backed by a guarantee and service promise.

Visit www.ll-installations.co.uk

Free home survey

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

43

Tuesday 25 June 2019 Visit one of the most beautiful rose gardens in the world

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LIFESTYLE

LITV PROMOTION

Satisfaction guaranteed Sidestepping job dissatisfaction with Kirsten Cluer Job dissatisfaction is something that every employer should try to avoid amongst their employees. After all, unhappy workers are unproductive ones and this, ultimately, has adverse effects on the company as a whole.

Employees who are dissatisfied tend to lack motivation, have a negative attitude and perform poorly. An unhappy workforce creates a culture of frustration, leading to high rates of absenteeism and staff turnover. To avoid this, it’s worth encouraging a healthy work-life balance, recognising that each individual has a life beyond the office.

Being underpaid If workers feel that they are low or working too hard for their money, they are likely to feel unhappy. If your business is unable to provide salary increases, it’s worth considering rewards such as flexible shift patterns, tickets to films or sporting events, or even paid days off.

Lack of meaningful work If employees feel their work lacks purpose or is monotonous, they will inevitably become bored. Work that lacks meaning or direction leaves no room for growth and offers no incentive to strive towards maximum productivity. Ensuring

Sign up online for free HR updates

staff feel their work is valuable and offers a challenge will be more inclined to strive harder and give original input.

Poor management Workers who feel dictated to or lack feedback are likely to feel disheartened. Managers who focus solely on results can become detached from the needs of their employees, neglecting the natural human desire for inspiration and growth. Leaders with high expectations, who show confidence in their staff, will produce eager, motivated workers.

Limited opportunities A workplace that lacks opportunities can make employees feel stuck, causing crashes in motivation and productivity. Including valued employees in long-term business plans, and recognising effort by offering promotion, will motivate them and the wider team.

Good terms and conditions, effective communication and career

Call on 01386 751740 Stockton’s Courtyard, Overbury, Tewkesbury GL20 7NT www.cluerhr.co.uk

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

progression are fundamental to a happy workforce. If you’d like advice on motivating your team, please email info@cluerhrsolutions.co.uk or call 01386 751740.

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RECIPES

Belle House

churros and chocolate sauce Spend a couple of chocolate filled hours in the run up to Easter perfecting these indulgent recipes from Steve Waites of Belle House

Churros Makes approx 50 (10 portions) INGREDIENTS

375g/ml water 90g butter 338g flour 4 eggs beaten Pinch of salt Combine cinnamon and sugar to coat

46

METHOD

• Boil the water with the butter and add the flour.

Cook on a low heat until all the flour is combined and comes away from the pan.

• Place mix into a KitchenAid or similar appliance with a whisk attachment and whip until the steam has disappeared.

• Slowly add the eggs until they are all whisked in.

• Place the mixture into a piping bag with a star nozzle and pipe 15cm long strips onto a tray.

• Freeze before frying if you want to achieve straight pieces or just pipe directly into a hot fryer until golden.

• Coat in the cinnamon sugar and serve with warm dark chocolate sauce and/or caramelised white chocolate for dipping.

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

RECIPES

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

47

RECIPES

Chocolate sauce INGREDIENTS

250g dark chocolate 500ml double cream

METHOD

• Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water.

Don’t allow the bottom of the bowl to touch the water.

• Boil the cream and then combine with the melted chocolate.

• Whip with a heat resistant spatula and serve warm.

Belle House caramelised white chocolate INGREDIENTS

1 lb good quality white chocolate (at least 30% cocoa butter content) Pinch of sea salt, to taste

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METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F / 120 degrees C 2. If your chocolate is in a block or a bar, chop it roughly. Spread out on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. After ten minutes, remove the pan from the oven and give the chocolate a stir.

3. Return the chocolate to the oven and bake for another 40-60 minutes.

During this time, set an alarm to check and stir it every ten minutes, removing when the chocolate is a deep golden colour. When stirring, be sure to scrape the chocolate from the bottom of the pan. It may appear dry and crumbly at first, but keep stirring and it will become smooth again. Take care as the chocolate is extremely hot!

4. Once the chocolate has turned a deep golden caramel colour, stir in a pinch of sea salt, to taste. If the chocolate has gone a little too long in the oven and becomes grainy, simply press it through a fine mesh sieve, or give it a quick blitz in a blender to smooth it out again.

5. Pour the finished chocolate into a clean jar, and store at room temperature for up to a few months. Once cooled, the chocolate may look blotchy or speckled, but don’t worry, that’s normal. To use, reheat the jar in a pot of shallow water on the stove, or place in the microwave for 10 second intervals, stirring in between.

This chocolate can be dipped, drizzled or poured; shaped into truffles, whipped into ganache, melted into hot cocoa, eaten by the spoonful, or used in any other way like regular chocolate.

Note: you should be able to double this recipe fairly easily, although it may take longer for the chocolate to caramelise. However, do not try to make it using less than 12-16 oz. of chocolate, as it may be easily burnt.

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

RECIPES Recipes courtesy of Steve Waites, proprietor of Belle House Restaurant & Deli-Traiteur, Bridge Street, Pershore,WR10 1AJ. www.belle-house.co.uk

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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EVENTS

A new season for Coughton Court Enjoy a spring day out at one of Warwickshire’s most beautiful family homes, suggests Abi Cole

The National Trust’s Coughton Court opens its doors for a new season on Friday 1st March. Although we were closed to visitors, the winter months were a busy time for the conservation team which has carried out a range of projects to protect and preserve our precious collection.

This year a selection of 16th – 19th century paintings underwent extensive work including checks on their condition, framing and fixings, surface cleaning, and retouching and varnishing if required. The tapestry from the Front Hall, which partly depicts the mythical story of the founding of ancient Rome, has also been restored by a specialist textile conservator.

By carrying out this muchneeded conservation, our aim is to care for this special place for current

and future generations to enjoy.

The work is intensive, but we hope visitors will agree, worthwhile.

The 2019 season begins with our increasingly popular Jigsaw Festival, returning from Friday 1st to Sunday 10th March, 11am-5pm, on open days. If you have jigsaws cluttering up your cupboards and you’d like to play a vital part in conserving this beautiful house and its contents, please call 01789 400777 for more information.

Our Cadbury Easter Hunts will be taking place from Friday 19th to Monday 22nd April, 11am-4pm.

With chocolate treats, take home activities and a trail around the grounds, it’s a great opportunity to get all the family together.

There are so many ways to enjoy spring at Coughton…

For opening hours please call 01789 400777 or visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughtoncourt www.facebook.com/CoughtonCourt

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Dates for your Diary Jigsaw Festival Fri 1 Mar – Sun 10 Mar (on open days), 11am-5pm. Hundreds of donated jigsaws on sale to raise funds for vital conservation. To donate jigsaws, please call 01789 400777.

Mothering Sunday Sun 31 Mar, 11am-5pm. Treat Mum to a delicious cream tea, enjoy the house or gardens, or take a stroll into the countryside with one of our walks cards, available at Reception.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts Fri 19 Apr – Mon 22 Apr, 11am-4pm. Easter fun for all the family with an outdoor trail, traditional games and take-home crafts. £3 per trail.

May Half Term Family Fun Sat 25 May – Sun 2 Jun, 11am-4pm (on open days), 11am-4pm.

See how many 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾ you can tick off.

Box office - 0344 249 1895

Follow us on Twitter @NTCoughton

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FOOD & DRINK

With Anuj Thakur, Executive Chef at Tewkesbury Park Hotel which has recently undergone a £10 million programme of renovation Tell us about your foodie journey I was very fortunate to have been born and brought up in a very foodie part of India - Northern India, Shimla.

Home cooking and shopping for fresh produce with my parents was an integral part of family life. Visiting the local market was a daily routine in our household, we were so lucky that we had the freshest of the fresh!

I’m convinced this early ritual played a major part in my career path, so after high school it seemed natural to go to catering college.

Besides the love of food, my job has allowed me to travel around the world, which has been an added bonus, I’ve also been very lucky to

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work with some very talented chefs and teams.

Who inspired you?

Like a lot of chefs I was influenced by a family member, mine was my dad. He’s an excellent cook and took great pleasure in creating fabulous meals from scratch. Next to Dad, I would say along the way, I’ve learned from some great chefs I’ve worked under.

What type of chef are you?

I definitely like to roll my sleeves up and get stuck in. You will still see me very active on the stoves. I love a busy kitchen – I’m not much of an admin chef! Brainstorming

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK I like the first batch of produce every season – be it the first bundle of spring asparagus, or a good game bird in winter

vocation, it’s hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding and it’s the kind of job you should only do if you love it. For me it’s the best job, I love everything about being a chef and that’s what keeps me going.

new ideas and creating dishes is the best feeling.

What sets the tone at your restaurant?

Simplicity with minimum fuss, but with utmost respect to the ingredients. Like all good restaurants, local produce and seasonality is an important element of all our menus.

What keeps you moving forward in the kitchen?

Fundamentally I would say you’re either a chef or you’re not. It’s a

What’s your favourite dish?

Hmmm.. it’s hard to say, I like the first batch of produce every season - be it the first bundle of spring asparagus, or a good game bird in winter. It just puts a smile on my face and inspires me to create something new.

What do you cook at home?

At home my job is to think creatively. The fridge is definitely my wife’s domain. However, come the end of the week, when it’s looking a little sad, I step in and knock up something with what’s leftover. It’s like being presented with a surprise box of ingredients. So, it’s usually a humble stew, curry or bread loaf. I

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

make a good leftover savoury frittata muffin. It’s a family favourite, especially for brunch.

Where do you like to eat locally?

Over the last year or so with all the renovations at Tewkesbury Park going on, I haven’t had much time to think about other restaurants.

However, if it’s a special occasion, we go to Lumiere in Cheltenham I would definitely recommend it.

The food is excellent and the service is impeccable. www.tewkesburypark.co.uk 55

GARDENS

Roses Plant roses this season and enjoy a succession of colour and fragrance in your garden Gems for your garden Roses will add to the beauty of your garden; no other plant is so diverse.

The quintessential English country flower, they can be found in a vast range of colours and shapes. The variation within the species is huge; from flowers as tiny as your little fingertip, even when open, to fully double blooms that will span your fist. Rose plants range in size from squat, spreading shrubs to climbers that grow several metres tall. Many have a longer flowering period than other plants, are scented and produce rosehips too. There is a rose for every garden and now is a great time to plant them.

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Sun-worshippers Roses love the sun. The more sun, the better. Natural sunshine enhances their growth, aids flowering and helps with the ripening of the rosehips.

Always try to choose a site where your rose will receive at least four hours of sunshine a day. Practically any type of soil is suitable, but they do prefer a drier, well-drained location. Roses are not difficult plants. If you don’t have ideal condition just select a more vigorous variety and they will still grow and flower satisfactorily. Given the right position, fertiliser – and a bit of love – they’ll bring your pleasure for years to come.

Long flowering season One way of classifying roses is according to their flowering season.

Some are referred to as ‘once blooming’ which means they bloom for around four weeks with a peak in June and July (the exact period depends on the weather conditions).

Then there are the ‘perpetual roses’ that bloom without stopping from mid-June until late in the autumn. Lastly, there are the ‘repeat flowering’ roses that flower in June/ July, take a break, and give you an encore later.

Early in the year, roses produce attractive glossy new leaves that are often red in colour; their flower

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

GARDENS

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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GARDENS

buds and hips appear later.

Choose plants with a wide range of flowering periods and you can have roses blooming in your garden from spring until well into autumn.

Colour and fragrance Roses range in colour from white to purple, pastel yellow to fire engine red, and every shade in between.

The only colour missing is a true blue. Some roses even change

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colour as they mature; perhaps starting with deep orange buds that turn into pink petals in full bloom.

And then there are the multi coloured roses and the ones with striped petals.

Some roses have stronger fragrances than others. Because their essential oils are contained in their petals, double-flowered roses often have a more intense scent. Once you start learning about the fragrances

of roses, there’s a whole new world to discover; the scent of roses varies from sweet as honey to spicy.

Sold with or without soil Roses are available ‘bare rooted’ (without soil) or in pots. Bare rooted roses soil can be planted from October until the end of April; roses in pots can be planted at any time of the year as long as the ground is not frozen.

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

GARDENS

Getting started 1. Dig a large deep planting hole.

2. If you are planting a rose where roses have previously grown, fill the hole with compost or soil from another area of the garden, or add a soil improver.

3. If planted a bare rooted rose, place it in a bucket of water for a few hours before planting it or add water to the planting hole.

4. Roses that have been grafted have a slight bulge on the lower part of their main stem; this is where the cultivated rose variety has been grafted onto a rootstock obtained from a species rose.

Plant a grafted rose so that its grafting point is

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

three centimetres below the soil surface. Roses without this bulge were produced from cuttings.

Plant these at a depth where all of its roots and a small part of its trunk are below the soil surface.

5. Tamp the soil gently.

6. Work some organic fertiliser into the upper level of the soil.

7. Provide the plant with sufficient water during the first weeks. Apply water to the base of the plant; this way, the leaves will remain dry and fungi will not develop.

Visit www ww ww.roses4gardens.com w for tips on pruning, fertilising tips and more inspiration.

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FOOD & DRINK

Make Mum’s Day Gin used to be known as ‘mother’s ruin’ but we now know that one way to spoil your mum is to make her a cocktail. These spring recipes from Brockmans are quick and simple to create yet result in complex mouthwatering flavours Rhubarb 75

Ultra Violet

50ml Brockmans Gin

50ml Brockmans Gin

25ml fresh lemon juice

20ml Absinthe

15ml rhubarb liqueur

20ml Crème de Violette

Top with Champagne, Prosecco or English Sparkling Wine

10ml Dry Vermouth

Garnish: rhubarb ribbons Chill a tall flute glass and wrap a ribbon of rhubarb around the inside of the glass. Add the Brockmans Gin, lemon juice and rhubarb liqueur to a shaker filled with ice cubes. Shake hard then double strain into the glass and top with chilled sparkling wine.

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Garnish: an edible violet flower Combine all the ingredients with large ice cubes and stir for 5 -6 seconds then strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass and garnish with an edible flower.

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Berry Breeze

Forbidden Fruit

50ml Brockmans Gin

35ml Brockmans Gin

20ml fresh grapefruit juice

25ml grapefruit juice

40ml cranberry juice

15ml lime juice

25ml St Germaine

20ml simple syrup

20ml lime juice

5-6 mint leaves

Garnish: an orange twist and edible owers

Top with Prosecco

Combine all the ingredients in a shaker. Shake and strain into highball glass full of ice cubes. Garnish with a twist of orange zest and edible flowers.

For more recipes visit www.brockmansgin.com

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Garnish: a twist of orange or grapefruit zest and a mint leaf Combine all the ingredients with ice and 5 mint leaves in a shaker. Hard shake and double strain into a chilled coupe glass and top with Prosecco.

Garnish with a twist of grapefruit zest and a mint leaf or sprig of mint.

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bereavementsupport SOUTHWORCESTERSHIRE Children, young people and family bereavement support in South Worcestershire

Providing an opportunity for c children, young people and f families to share their feelings a develop strategies for and m managing their bereavement.

We can support children and y young people individually or w within group settings.

Bereavement Support South Worcestershire www.bereavementsupportworcestershire.org.uk St Richard’s Hospice Wildwood Drive Worcester WR5 2QT

Phone: 01905 760934 Fax: 01905 760935 Email: bssw@worcestershire.nhs.uk

Funded by the South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group and hosted by St Richard’s Hospice Charity No 515668 62

South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group

PRIZE DRAW

Win one of 10 pairs of tickets to the Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair on 28th April 10.30am - 5pm ENJOY A GREAT GARDENING DAY OUT A visit to the Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair is an ideal way to start planning your planting. With 40 stall holders offering 1000’s of rare and unusual plants, there will be something for every garden.

With everything from herbaceous perennials to alpines and shrubs, plus experts on hand for advice, it’s a simple way to solve all your gardening conundrums. Admission includes entry to 30 acres of historic gardens, offering families a fabulous day out. Refreshments will be available on the lawn. Entrance is £6.00 and under 16s go free.

Discover more at www.spetchleygardens.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER It’s easy! Just visit www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

by Wednesday 14th April 2019 and enter your details as requested.

Terms & Conditions One entry per household. UK residents only. Draw closes on 14/4/19 and the winners will be notified by email by 19/4/19.

Tickets will be held on the gate. Judges’ decision is final. Prize not redeemable for cash. No correspondence will be entered into.

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

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MONEY SAVING VOUCHERS £10 OFF ANY TREATMENTS FOR NEW CLIENTS

SENSATIONAL SANDSTONE FROM £14.00m2 +VAT

For new customers of Beauty Beyond until 30/4/19.

Please present voucher at reception.

Offers cannot be combined. T’s & C’s apply.

The Coach House, 2a Bull Lane, Winchcombe GL54 5HY. 01242 604 017 www.beautybeyondwinchcombe.co.uk

Offer valid until 30/4/19.

01242 620 000 cotswoldvalesupplies@hotmail.co.uk www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk

BEAUTY BEYOND

COTSWOLD & VALE SUPPLIES

£1 OFF ENTRY TO CHELTENHAM ORCHID SHOW

20% OFF TICKETS TO CRAFTING LIVE MALVERN WITH CODE LITV20

Visit www.cheltenhamorchids.org and follow the link to ‘2019 Orchid Show’ to download your voucher

For more information and tickets visit www.craftinglive.co.uk

CHELTENHAM ORCHID SHOW

CRAFTING LIVE MALVERN

15% OFF SPA DAY PACKAGES AT HATHERLEY MANOR

FREE GARDEN DESIGN AND GIFT ON COMPLETION OF YOUR NEW GARDEN*

WITH CODE LVSPA15 Excludes membership. Ends 30/4/19.

Book on O1452 733 299 spa@hatherleymanor.com www.hatherley.manor.com

*On completion of construction phase when design is booked by 30/4/19. T’s & C’s apply.

01905 841405 or 07908 734 022 www.runelandscapedesign.co.uk

HATHERLEY MANOR HOTEL & SPA

RUNE LANDSCAPE DESIGN

FREE INTRODUCTORY PIANO LESSON – 1:1 ADULT, CHILD AND FAMILY TO SUIT

FREE P&P ON BEE, BUTTERFLY, HEDGEHOG OR BIRD WILDLIFE GIFT BOXES UNTIL 30/04/19*

With a few lessons you can learn the tunes you love.

Offer ends 30/4/19.

Call Simon Probert on 07720 400215 www.piano-lessons.net

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Discount is available on advance tickets only, purchased online, not at the door, but is valid right up until the date of the event.

*Call 01905 754919 and quote LITV Sorry offer not available online. www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk

SIMON PROBERT

WORCESTERSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

FREE ADVERT DESIGN*

6 FULL PAGE ADS FOR THE PRICE OF 5*

*for new customers booking an annual package by 15/3/19. Not valid with other offers.

01684 773135 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

*for new customers booking an annual package by 15/3/19. Not valid with other offers.

01684 773135 lisa@lifeinthevillage.co.uk www.lifeinthevillage.co.uk

LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

INDEX OF ENTRIES Complementary Therapy Beauty Beyond Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa

Fencing Cotswold & Vale Supplies Place Maintenance WaterStone

Alarms Buzz Electrical Vale Heating & Plumbing

52 68

Animal Supplies Folly Gardens

41

Conservatories & Garden Rooms L+L Installations 20/43/67 Monarch Home Improvements 27

30

Crafting Crafting Live Malvern

37

Fires - Gas, Electric & Stoves Vale Heating & Plumbing

Curtains & Blinds Homechoice Blinds

30

Firewood Rose Firewood

Awnings & Blinds Homechoice Blinds Bathrooms Vale Heating & Plumbing Beauty Therapy Beauty Beyond Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa

68 50 19

Blinds & Awnings Homechoice Blinds

30

Boiler Repairs & Installations Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Building & Groundworks Alderwood Construction LC Millar Monarch Home Improvements Park & Landscapes

2 38 27 50

Building & Timber Merchants Cotswold & Vale Supplies

24

Business Services Cluer HR Solutions

45

Car Maintenance Eddie’s Autos

52

Central Heating Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Charities LINC St. Richard’s Hospice Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

44 42/62 11

Chimney Pointing & Repairs LCM Flat Roofing

30

Days Out & Events Beltane Festival Birlingham Snowdrops Bredon’s Norton Lambing Day Cheltenham Orchid Society Crafting Live Malvern Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa LINC NT Coughton Court RHS Malvern Spring Festival Spetchley Easter Trail Spetchley Specialist Plant Fair The Asparagus Festival The Blossom Trail The Mustard Seed The Roses Worcestershire Wildlife Trust Dog Food Folly Gardens Vets

50 19

26 36 18 18 37 19 44 53 5/21 30 29 28 34 32 9 10 41

Double Glazing Cloudy2Clear 40 L+L Installations 20/43/67 Monarch Home Improvements 27

6

68 50

Function Rooms Belle House Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa

46/48 19

Funeral Directors Merstow Green Funeral Home

51

Furniture - Indoors & Out Severn Seating

29

Garage Eddie’s Autos

52

Gardening & Landscaping Alderwood Construction Cotswold & Vale Supplies LC Millar Ltd Place Maintenance Park & Landscapes Rune Severn Seating WaterStone

2 24 38 40 50 7 29 22

Gas Engineer Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Gates & Entry Systems Buzz Electrical

52

Dry Stone Walling Alderwood Construction LC Millar Rune

2 38 7

Electric Gates Buzz Electrical Vale Heating & Plumbing

52 68

Gifts Woven Art Jewellery

29

52 68

Green Issues Buzz Electrical Vale Heating & Plumbing

52 68

22

Chiropody Chrissy Booth

24

Electrician Buzz Electrical Vale Heating & Plumbing

Cleaning Services & Ironing Bredon Hill Cleaning Services

24

Estate & Lettings Agent Gusterson Palmer & James

39 23 63

Fascias & Guttering L+L Installations 20/43/67 LCM Flat Roofing 30 Monarch Home Improvements 27

Competitions Crafting Live Malvern RHS Malvern Spring Festival Spetchley Plant Fair

Financial Advice NFU Mutual, Evesham

24 40 22

lifeinthevillage.co.uk | Early Spring 2019

Guttering LCM Flat Roofing L+L Installations Hairdressers Tribe

30 20/43/67

25

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INDEX OF ENTRIES Health & Wellbeing Chrissy Booth LINC St. Richard’s Hospice Heating Engineers Vale Heating & Plumbing Holistic & Beauty Treatments Beauty Beyond Hotel Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa Human Resources Cluer HR Solutions Image Consultant Kate Evans

24 44 42/62 68 50 19 45 31/33

Insurance NFU Mutual, Evesham

6

Investments NFU Mutual, Evesham

6

Ironing & Cleaning Bredon Hill Cleaning Services

24

Jewellery Woven Art Jewellery

29

Kitchens - Supply & Installation Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Laundry & Ironing Bredon Hill Cleaning Services Legal Services Thomson & Bancks Lettings Gusterson Palmer & James Life Coach Kate Evans Logs & Fuel Cotswold & Vale Supplies Rose Firewood

24 6 22 31/33 24 50

Log Burners Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Massage Beauty Beyond

50

66

Mechanic Eddie’s Autos

52

Soft Furnishings & Blinds Homechoice Blinds

30

Oil & Gas Heating Engineers Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Solar Power Vale Heating & Plumbing Ltd

68

Orthotic Therapy Chrissy Booth Pensions & Investments NFU Mutual, Evesham

24

6

Solicitors Thomson & Bancks Spa Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa Theatre The Roses

6 19 9

Pet Supplies Folly Gardens Vets

41

Tiles & Tiling Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Plumbing Vale Heating & Plumbing

68

Timber Merchants Cotswold & Vale Supplies

24

Podiatry Chrissy Booth

24

Tree Surgery Park & Landscapes Place Maintenance

50 40

Ponds & Pools Park & Landscapes Ltd Rune WaterStone

50 7 22

Vehicle Maintenance Eddie’s Autos

52

Veterinary Surgeons Folly Gardens Vets

41

Property Letting & Services Gusterson Palmer & James

22

Recycling & Waste Budget Skips

3

Volunteering St Richard’s Hospice Worcestershire Wildlife Trust

42/62 10

Waste & Recycling Budget Skips Place Maintenance

3 40

Reflexology Beauty Beyond

50

Reiki Beauty Beyond

Water Gardens & Ponds Park & Landscapes Ltd WaterStone

50 22

50

Wedding Woven Art Jewellery

29

Restaurants, Pubs & Cafés Belle House, Pershore Roofing LCM Flat Roofing

46/48

30

Security Buzz Electrical

52

Skip Hire Budget Skips

3

Weddings Belle House Hatherley Manor Hotel & Spa Woven Art Jewellery

46/48 19 29

Windows & Doors Cloudy2Clear 40 L+L Installations 20/43/67 Monarch Home Improvements 27 Wood Burning Stoves Vale Heating & Plumbing

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Early Spring 2019 | lifeinthevillage.co.uk

LET A VALE BATHROOM WELCOME YOU HOME  Large display of traditional and contemporary bathroom suites  Long term relationships with reliable suppliers including Lakes, Claygate, Ideal Standard, Heritage, Tavistock & Novellini  Expert design and installation service including building and electrical services  Styles to suit all tastes and budgets  Designer radiators & towel rails  Great range of accessories from Miller, Samuel Heath and Roper Rhodes  Gas Safe & O TRC reg d, NICEIC approved

Visit our showroom at the rear of Pershore High Street or call us on 01386 556585 and discover our fabulous range of traditional and contemporary bathrooms. Trading for over 20 years, we have acquired significant expertise in design & installation.

Our team is fully qualified for an expert fitting, Vale Heating & Plumbing guaranteed.

Unit 5A, Rear of 79 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1EU

www.valebathroomandfires.co.uk