OCTOBER / NOVEMBER • DUDLEY • SEDGLEY • LOWER & UPPER GORNAL • HIMLEY • SWINDON • BRIERLEY HILL • AMBLECOTE • ASHWOOD • KINGSWINFORD • WALL HEATH • WORDSLEY • STOURBRIDGE • WOLLASTON • ENVILLE • KINVER • STOURTON • HAGLEY • PEDMORE • BELBROUGHTON • KIDDERMINSTER • CHADDERSLEY CORBETT • BLAKEDOWN • COOKLEY • HARTLEBURY • WYCHAVON • HABBERLEY • BEWDLEY • ARLEY • WOLVERLEY • STOURPORT ON SEVERN • WILDEN • CLEOBURY MORTIMER • CLEE HILL • CLOWS TOP • OMBERSLEY • WYCHBOLD • BROMSGROVE • DROITWICH • DROITWICH SPA 1 www.localzest.co.uk
Contents
Home & Garden
Pages 6 - 17
Property
Pages 18 – 21
Food & Drink
Pages 22 - 25
Business & Finance
Pages 26 - 28
Leisure & Lifestyle
Pages 29 - 49
Wedding Feature
Pages 50 – 55
Horoscopes
Pages 56 – 57
Health & Fitness
Page 58 – 63
Motors
Page 66 – 67
Just for Fun Puzzles
Pages 36 & 62
Puzzle solutions
Page 64
All Advertising & Content Enquiries Marie Wright: marie@localzest.co.uk Sam Richards: sam@localzest.co.uk Local Zest Magazine Office 28 – Suite 2 28 Cleveland Street Wolverhampton WV1 3HT Tel. 01902 906020 www.localzest.co.uk
The small print All competition entries for the October/November edition need to be received by 1st December 2016 and sent to sam@localzest.co.uk or posted to Office 28 – Suite 2, 28 Cleveland Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 3HT. Winners will be notified by email/telephone and listed in the December/January edition of Local Zest. No cash alternative to the prize. The competitions are free to enter but in doing so you agree to the terms and conditions as detailed above. We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Local Zest magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, Local Zest cannot take responsibility for loss, damage or omission in an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of good and services are fair and accurate. Local Zest Ltd does not endorse any advertising material included within the publication. No part of this magazine can be reproduced without prior consent. All rights reserved.*Total distribution 20,000 copies across 2 months
Welcome Note from the editors
So as the Autumn nights draw in and the weather begins to change, what better way to grab a bit of me time than a brew, a
Take a well earned tea break and enjoy this month’s just for fun puzzles! Plus keep your health in check with some fantastic offers and information from local businesses in and around the area. We were lucky enough to be invited to the Nuffield Health’s recent launch of their newly installed MRI imaging equipment, the very latest in MRI imagining technology and
hearty warm meal and of course, your Local Zest magazine.
part of a £1.7 million investment. You can find out more on page 58 & 59.
This month for you we have a whole host of things for you to enjoy with lots of inspiration for the home including
Once again a big thank you to all the local businesses for their support in this edition of Local Zest. If the need arises for you to use one of them please
our guest writers Katie Bourne and Shirley Breed who have turned their love of art and crafts into a businesses! Plus we have lots of advice on current trends in the home and how they could help bring your home to life!
remember to give us a mention!
H
ello readers, Welcome to the October/November edition of your Local Zest Magazine.
Time For SomeZest Welcome to your Local Zest magazine
4
October / November
With many of the annual summer holidays a distant memory our guest writer Laura Pitchford tells us all about her travels. Wow this lady has
Here at Local Zest we are feeling the love this month with our extra special wedding feature, with ideas and checklists for you to use or pass on as well as some local businesses who could help provide that added extra something you were looking for.
had so many adventures...it really is inspiring if travel is your thing. Read all about Kidderminster born Michael Neri and his recent success on and off the stage and find out about one of Local Zest’s readers who has
recently had her book published! Here at Local Zest we are feeling the love this month with our extra special wedding feature, with ideas and checklists for you to use or pass on as well as some local businesses who could help provide that added extra something you were looking for. We have our monthly recipes for you too including a twist on an old favourite and my girls, Lola and Robyn got involved in one of our recipes for little people too! Check out the result on page 24! A must try for the chocolate fiends out there! Check out some of the fun things to do with the little ones this half term in this month’s “What’s On” guide as well as some ghoulish ideas for some Halloween fun! If you are out and about this Bonfire Night make sure you keep warm, keep safe and don’t forget to keep your family pets indoors!
A big congratulations to our winner of The Island Pool competition from the August/ September edition. Back by popular demand due to the overwhelming response in the last edition, we are giving you another chance to win a delicious meal for 4 at the Island Pool on Pg 23. Don’t forget we’d love to hear from you, if you have an event happening, let us know, send us your good news stories and pictures and you may very well see your face in the next issue! Enjoy your read and see you in December!
Sam & Marie xx Winner of The Island Pool competition: Susan Gwilliam
www.localzest.co.uk
5
Home & Garden
the Plant of Month
Marigold Marigolds are wonderful for the Autumn months, coming in rich colours of maroon, orange and red. They don’t just bloom in Autumn, however, they are also Spring and Summer flowers and are easy to care for (with few insect problems). Although native to Mexico and South America they
can be found all over the world and can be planted in clay or sandy soil and prefer full sunlight. Some Marigolds can grow up to five feet tall. There are 50 species of Marigold and some are known for having a lovely aroma and are long-lasting even when cut.
Househ old Tips
6
October / November
Flower Tea Cups
Tricky Thread
Fancy a change from your typical indoor plant pots? Try switching your normal vases and tubs for tea cups and mugs! This quick and easy idea will help add a vintage and quirky look to any home while utilising what you already have around the house.
If you’re having trouble trying to get that pesky end of your sewing thread into the eye of the needle, why not use hairspray? By spraying the end of the thread with just a bit of hairspray it will make it much easier to attach the thread to the needle.
www.localzest.co.uk
7
Home & Garden
K
atie grew up in
rural Staffordshire and from a young age has had a passion for childrens books and illustration. Katie went on to train at Cambridge School of Art to gain BA (Hons) in Illustration.
VISIT OUR IMPRESSIVE KIDDERMINSTER CARPET SHOWROOM AND KARNDEAN STUDIO AND VIEW OUR EXTENSIVE SELECTION OF CARPETS AND HARDFLOORING. As always we continue to provide the best prices on top quality carpets plus a huge amount of clearance stock.
Top quality carpets from premium manufacturers. Carpet Factory Outlets offer you the instore and online opportunity to purchase carpets from the following, world renowned, Kidderminster manufacturers: Brintons, Brockway, Victoria, Woodward Grosvenor and Adam.
She continued to work in many different medias, mainly working in water colour and ink for commissioned illustrations for individual business and private clients however her continued passion for the arts along with spending time with her sons and nephews have led her to design her wallpaper collections. Katie Bourne Interiors, designs and makes high quality childrens wallpaper for bedrooms, playrooms and nurseries.
The wallpapers are whimsical, fun stories for the wall that demonstrate Katie’s quirky sense of fun. Whilst being influenced by traditional children’s story books, the stylised images are contemporary; appealing to today’s children as well as parents with a more discerning eye for interiors.
Katie’s passion is to create wallpapers with a feeling of classic storytelling; papers which involve the child’s imagination within the patterns; allowing them to create their own adventures.
These beautifully illustrated and unique childrens wallpapers are made and printed in England using traditional techniques on high quality, sustainable forest paper in gorgeous heritage colour combinations.
To see more of the range and for room inspiration visit www.katiebourneinteriors.com.
SPECIAL OFFER
Use promo code 'Zest20' to save 20% for a limited time only.
• Full fitting service available. Unit 7 & 8, Easter Park, Worcester Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 7AR, United Kingdom Tel: 01562 743354 Email: Sales@cfokidderminster.com
8
www.carpetfactoryoutletskidderminster.com October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
9
Home & Garden
‘Craft Corner’with Shirley Breed, Cherry Orchard Cottage
I
had been looking for something to do after completing my Open University Degree last year, managing to achieve it just before my 60th birthday this year. The degree had taken over my life for 8 years and had left a void. I had always had an interest in sewing and found that I was drawn to old furniture and fabrics. I started to research courses for traditional upholstery skills and took a couple of weekend courses in upholstery, which resulted in my completely reupholstering an old reproduction nursing chair.
“It is amazing what a few new lampshades can do to revive a tired room and at such a small cost.”
lounge in our cottage and then moved on to the dining room and hall. At this point my husband ‘suggested’ that perhaps that was enough for our cottage and why didn’t I try to sell some online. Fabric lampshades have taken over my life! I get so much pleasure from making them and sourcing new material that I can’t stop! Cherry Orchard Cottage in a Nutshell
A few months later, I ended up reupholstering and selling 2 chairs that I had completely gutted, painted and reupholstered from scratch. With a small amount of material left from each of the chairs I thought… mmm that would make a lovely matching lampshade! So off I went in search of assembly materials and I’ve not looked back. I began by replacing all the lampshades in the
10
October / November
I source lovely materials to make into lampshades of all sizes. The more unusual or striking the better! Most of my fabrics are sourced online, but I have found a few more interesting ones locally. It is amazing what a few new lampshades can do to revive a tired room and at such a small cost. I look at all fabrics – modern, traditional, contemporary, tribal, floral and shabby chic and can immediately visualise what
it would look like as a lampshade and if it would enhance someone’s décor or not. I find when watching TV I am constantly looking at the background settings and thinking that’s a boring lampshade! One of my highlights was selling my first chair and shade. A lady came to the cottage to view the chair which she was delighted with and happened to say she was also looking for a lampshade to match the chair for her conservatory. Fortunately I had a couple of shades made in the same fabric and she bought one! I was delighted at my first joint sale and couldn’t stop smiling.
You can find me on: Folksy.com – Cherry Orchard Cottage Ebay – Cherry Orchard Cottage Email – shirleybreed@btinternet.com
www.localzest.co.uk
11
WHERE TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE MEETS MORDERN TECHNOLOGY • Window repair services • Replace failed units • Door and window locks • Antisnap barrels • New handles • Hinges • Door panels • Patio track and wheels
A
s one of the most used rooms in the house, the ideal designs for living areas are not only welcoming, comfortable and practical, but also should offer a reflection of your personal style. When considering a living room design, you should not only consider the kinds of activities that will take place in the space but also the kind of feel you want from the room. Whether you want a relaxed, cosy living room or home cinema, a fun family room for the kids or a more formal living room, you will need to start by making some practical choices about the flooring before looking at furniture, decoration and accessories. The key to a fully functional and aesthetically bold living room is a strong underfoot. Depending on the material and overall design, the floor covering
12
can either play the main role in the room or act as a diminished backdrop. Floor tiles can totally change the entire look and feel of a living room. As well as needing to be able to withstand the hustle and bustle, floor tiles are a fantastic way to add texture and style to the room. Whether you prefer modern designs or classically inspired shapes, Tile Choice’s collection of floor tiles features a comprehensive range of finishes, sizes, colours and styles to complement each and every living room. If you want to create a rustic look in your home then wood effect tiles are the perfect choice. In the last few years wood effect tiles have become increasingly popular for use in the living room and unlike most natural wood, they are suitable for use with underfloor heating. The real beauty of purchasing wood effect tiles is that you will not come up against any of the problems you may experience with real wood such as bowing, rotting, warping or colour fading. You’ll never have to spend time or money on intensive maintenance again.
October / November
If you like the sleek and contemporary look, polished porcelain floor tiles may have caught your eye. Polished porcelain tiles have always been popular but recently they are taking centre stage when it comes to the interior design. And there’s a reason that they’re stealing the limelight: their high sheen and modern look means that they can instantly give any living room a smart, polished look. Polished porcelain tiles have an extremely impressive sheen to them and this highly reflective surface can help to add depth and dimension to a room.
We also provide free quotations for new windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries.
Call 01902 897000
Natural stone is the perfect solution for homeowners who want to stick to natural materials and want to achieve the traditional effect in the interior. Natural stone floor tiles give a specific bold and rustic feel as well as creating a cool open and visual appearance. Overall, using tiles as a floor covering in the living room is practical, easy to maintain and to top it off they can give you the look you want to achieve, whether that be modern or traditional.
www.localzest.co.uk
13
Home & Garden
14
October / November
Home & Garden
16
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
17
Property
LITTLE ORCHARD, BARK HILL, BEWDLEY £410,000
THE GARRODS, GORST HILL, ROCK, NR BEWDLEY £495,000
Idyllic period detached cottage set within approximately one acre of gardens and woodlands all within walking distance
A delightful detached cottage in rural setting with extensive and mature lawned gardens of 3/4 acre or thereabouts. Over 2400 sq ft Living Accommodation, Superb Open Plan Living Room/Dining Room, Four Bedrooms plus Principal Bathroom, En-suite Master Bedroom With Fitted Furniture, Sitting Room with Inglenook Style Fireplace, Double Garage, Breakfast Kitchen, Garden Room, Kitchen Garden and Orchard. EPC E.
of the town. Substantial Accommodation Extending to 1550 sqft, Period Features Throughout, Two Principal Double Bedrooms, Ground Floor En-suite Third Bedroom, Re-fitted Principal Bathroom with Separate Shower, Two Reception Rooms, Breakfast Kitchen & Separate Utility Room plus Guest Cloakroom, Conservatory, EPC D.
Kidderminster 01562 747755
Bewdley 01299 400555
Stourport 01299 825522
www.allan-morris.co.uk 18
October / November
Kidderminster 01562 747755
Bewdley 01299 400555
Stourport 01299 825522
www.allan-morris.co.uk www.localzest.co.uk
19
Property
THE COTTAGE, SEVERN SIDE SOUTH ÂŁ295,000
THE FORGE, SHRAWLEY ÂŁ380,000
A delightful Grade II listed cottage superbly situated within a few yards of the riverside and town centre whilst enjoying an
Immaculately presented detached barn conversion with no upwards chain, sympathetically fitted to a high standard throughout, enjoying this pleasant village location. 3 Double Bedrooms, Double Garage, Countryside Surroundings, 18ft Timber Workshop, Lounge, Country-style Dining Kitchen, Double Height Reception Hall with Mezzanine Landing, Two Bathrooms, Conservatory Opening to Large Decked Area, EPC D.
enviable degree of privacy and seclusion within attractive walled gardens. Excellent 20ft Kitchen / Dining Room, Sitting Room with Feature Fireplace, Rear Conservatory with Bi-Fold Doors, Guest Cloakroom, Two Double Bedrooms and Large Bathroom, Garden Home Office, Comprehensively Renovated, A Real Hidden Gem.
Kidderminster 01562 747755
Bewdley 01299 400555
Stourport 01299 825522
www.allan-morris.co.uk 20
October / November
Kidderminster 01562 747755
Bewdley 01299 400555
Stourport 01299 825522
www.allan-morris.co.uk www.localzest.co.uk
21
Food & Drink
Win a Carvery for up to Four people T
Competition Time!
he Island Pool is a classic country pub serving not only a high standard of food but great traditional ales.
We have to offer, a carvery with a choice freshly roasted meats accompanied by a wide variety of fresh locally sourced vegetables. Alongside our carvery we have an extensive menu with a range of foods to suit any and every palate. We are proud to offer exquisite beef steaks, also sourced locally, and are all cooked to perfection. For Bookings or any more information, call 01562 850311 or visit our brand new website www.theislandpool.net. We look forward to welcoming you soon to The Island Pool, Wolverhampton Road, Kidderminster, DY10 3RX.
22
October / November
Who partnered with Dolly Parton on the hit song "Islands in the Stream"? a) Neil Diamond b) Tony Christie c) Kenny Rogers All competition entries for the October / November edition need to be received by 1st December 2016 and sent to sam@ localzest.co.uk or posted to Office 28 – Suite 2, 28 Cleveland Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 3HT. One winner will be chosen at random from all the correct entries. Winners will be notified by email/ telephone and listed in the December / January edition of Local Zest. No cash alternative to the prize. The competitions are free to enter but in doing so you agree to the terms and conditions as detailed above.
Find us on Facebook The Island Pool
www.localzest.co.uk
23
Food & Drink
Cheeky Charlie
Order now at www.cheekycharlies.co.uk or call 0800 9545680
ONLY £1.99 PER PACK (400g)!
GREAT TAKEAWAY STYLE FOOD COOKED AT HOME
Celebrating 25 years specialising in bringing the tastiest chicken products to your home.
Tasty!
With 5 amazing flavours available for home delivery including Chicken Tandoori, Tikka, Peri Peri, BBQ and Chicken Kebab. These wonderful flavours are perfect for family meals, parties and the perfect option as part of healthy balanced diets. Perfect as a starter with a salad, sliced and added to pitta bread. These versatile products can be served with wraps and sandwiches, make delicious fajitas as well as curries. All products in the range are packed with the relevant information you need including ingredients, nutritional values, allergens, used by dates, cooking and storage advice, thawing information and serving suggestions. CALL US TO DISCUSS DELIVERY OPTIONS. 24
October / November
Packed with
Flavour!
PERFECT WHEN YOUR STUCK ON WHAT TO COOK OR FANCY SOMETHING DIFFERENT.
PACKED IN BOXES OF 10, INDIVIDUAL OR MIXED BOXES.
Business & Finance
L SPECIA E BUNDL S OFFER
Looking for a ... Serviced Office Provider Meeting Room Hire Virtual Office & PA?
H
ere at Office 28 we have 32 serviced offices suitable for businesses of varying sizes from 1 person, up to 20 people with several suites interlinked.
“One client has moved through 5 different offices as their business needs evolved”
The simple inclusive price is enabling businesses to be nurtured and grow whilst on a budget but giving their clients a professional and quality impression. Our city centre location means we are easy accessible by public transport and have the convenience of local amenities. Many new companies can struggle and fail, because going it alone can make it easier to give up. However, the environment of Office 28 and the like minded business people based here, can be that extra support to keep a business going. 26
The atmosphere is truly unique here at Office 28 and wrapping up each week at the end of the day with Wine Friday has been a perfect way for the businesses based here to network and share their successes and challenges amongst like minded professional people. It’s a small gesture but then this just one of the small ways Office 28 helps create a professional, friendly and successful business environment.
Get In Touch
www.office28.co.uk 28 Cleveland Street Wolverhampton WV1 3HT
T: 01902 271000 / 07539 122076 E: info@office28.co.uk
“Two clients have already said the support from Office 28 was the difference in keeping them going.”
October / November
Virtual Office - Registered Address & 2 Hours Meeting Room Hire only £40.00 plus vat pm Give your business a professional start come to Office 28
Virtual Office Here at Office 28 we offer MAIL SERVICES City centre address for your company Mail collection or forwarding TELEPHONE Local number personalised Professionally answered calls Call forwarding MEETING ROOM HIRE Selection of meeting rooms Catering & hospitality services www.localzest.co.uk
27
Leisure & Lifestyle
The brand new gym is now open at Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre! T
he refurbished Rivers Fitness Room now includes a functional training zone and strength section to complement the redesigned resistance area and CV room. New equipment has also been installed throughout the updated, multi-level gym including two Olympic half racks, an ARKE functional training kit, Ercolina pulleys and much more! In addition to the brand new gym, Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre has introduced Les Mills classes to the exercise timetable, including BODYPUMP Live! “BODYPUMP uses light to moderate weights with lots of repetition, giving you a total body workout. It’s suitable for any ability because live instructors will coach you through the scientifically proven moves and techniques as you go!”
28
October / November
Les Mills virtual classes will be launched in autumn 2016. For more information on Droitwich Spa Leisure Centre, Les Mills classes or to view the group exercise timetable, please visit www.wychavonleisure.co.uk
New equipment has also been installed throughout the updated, multi-level gym including two Olympic half racks, an ARKE functional training kit, Ercolina pulleys and much more!
www.localzest.co.uk
29
Leisure & Lifestyle
FOR A FABULOUS FESTIVE FEAST IT MUST BE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST T
his year’s magical Christmas pantomime is everybody’s favourite tale Beauty and the Beast at the Palace Theatre, Redditch running from Monday 5th to Saturday 31st December.
Adam Daye dishes up a recipe of success with audiences of all ages as the adorable Madame Cherie Trifle. Actor Andrew Haynes stars as the hysterical Professor René Crackpot and the stunning Natalie Turner lights up the stage as Belle.
Taking us on a quest to woo our herIt will be a beast oine Belle, and beat the beast, dasha pantomime! ing EastEnders star and Dancing on Ice winner Sam Attwater stars as our story’s lothario Gaston. Taking on the role of panto baddie is Bad Girl and Emmerdale vixen, Nicole Faraday, who plays the Witch. Comedy impressionist and Redditch panto favourite Tony Rudd is set to thrill us with his comic capers as the loveable Wacky Willie. James Meunier delivers a West End stella performance as both Prince François and the Beast, while
30
October / November
of
Of course, all the fabulous pantomime ingredients audiences have come to expect and deserve will be there in abundance, from the fairy-tale set and colourful costumes, to creative choreography, live music, and lots and lots of laughter!
Tickets are available from the box office on 01527 65203 for full details of ticket prices and performance schedules go to the theatre’s website www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk
Leisure & Lifestyle
32
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
33
Leisure & Lifestyle
34
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
35
Leisure & Lifestyle
Get ready for the Great British summer, with the only Camper van that is truly made In Great Britain. Features include 5 traveling seats with 3 point seat belts for the whole family, 50 litre fridge to chill those refreshments and a double burner combination sink for stress free living on the road. It also includes a USB port and touch lighting for your 36
October / November
comfort and enjoyment.
Here at £500 OFF CCCAMPERS UPGRADES WITH ALL we are pasCONVERSIONS sionate about in October and giving you a November. quote touch of luxury code Zest me Up whilst still at an affordable price, we have worked hard to develop what you see today with all our vehicles being safety checked and approved you can drive away with the knowledge that all our customers safety are in the forefront of our minds. So have something that is made with British parts and assembled by British professionals why would you settle for anything else. We offer a range of colours and finishes to suit and the CCCAMPERS team will always be happy to assist you with your requirements. www.localzest.co.uk
37
Leisure & Lifestyle
It’s also really important to me that my posts aren’t just ‘I had a nice time and isn’t it pretty’. I want to get across the facts, the tips and the details to help people plan their own trips using my site as a resource. What are your hopes for the future? My aim for the future of the blog is to grow the readership and get to a point where all my travel knowledge is on there for each place I’ve ever been. Then carry on travelling some more! And I hope to build up an address book of all my favourite restaurants around the world.
L
aura Pitchford of laurahatesmushrooms.com is a travel blogger. Originally from Worcestershire, she lives in London and works as a Fashion Editor for a big high-street fashion company. But it was her passion for travel and photography that led to her to start up her own travel website where she shares her tips and pics with others.
What motivated/prompted you to start your business, and how did you begin?
At work I have become a bit of an oracle. Colleagues come up to me saying “Laura you’ve been to XYZ I run a travel blog called laurawhere should I stay? where’s best to hatesmushrooms.com a place for me eat? what should I do?” and I ended to share my up having lists of tips travel expeand recommendariences and At work I have become tions saved on my photos. I travel a bit of an oracle. desktop and emailing quite a lot - so Colleagues come up to them out time after far this year I me saying “Laura you’ve time. I decided that have been to been to XYZ - where if there was appetite South Africa, should I stay? where’s for my advice in my Lisbon, Porto, best to eat? what should office then maybe Barcelona I do?” other people would (twice), Amsterbe interested too. dam, Athens, And I was right! I set Santorini, Italy and Montenegro… who up my website to share it all publicly knows where the rest of the year will and now I’m ploughing through a take me! I’m a regular in New York and back catalogue of photos and tips Miami too and I just love knowing all from all the places I’ve visited in the the best places and recommending last 18months. Now when they ask - I them to friends. just send them a link to my site! Your business: In a nutshell – what do you do?
38
October / November
How did you choose your business name?! Does it have special meaning for you? It really is true – I do hate mushrooms! And although ‘Laurahatesmushrooms’ isn’t the most conventional name for a travel website it has become a social media handle that I am well known by so it’s my alter ego. Friends of friends even know who I am due to this name – it’s an Instagram generation thing! How do you go about starting a post? Mostly my posts start from the pictures. After a trip it can take quite a while to edit and select the images to use on the blog. Others get used for instagram posts and the rest hit the archives. As you can imagine I take a lot of snaps on my Olympus Pen digital camera! Then I decide how to divide the trip - by day or location and set about writing an overview.
My secrets for a successful trip all revolve around planning. What are your highlights so far? So far my highlight of the year would probably be my trip to Cape Town and wine tasting in the Boschendal region. The scenery was breathtaking and I would love to go back and explore more. Where else would you like to visit? The world is a big place so it’s a very long list but right now I’ve been to a lot of places in Europe and North America so my next priority would
Laura’s Top Travel tips Firstly, book flights and accommodation separately rather than a package as you will save money and have greater flexibility. Try out Air Bnb - I recently took my parents on their first Air Bnb experience in Athens. If you haven’t heard of it its a holiday homes website. It can result in amazing central locations and unique accommodation, often really cheap. I think its perfect for a more authentic stay.
Before your trip research, research, research. I like to read other blog posts on the destination - try using the search function on bloglovin.com for this. I make a note of all the restaurants or shops mentioned then go on to check them out on a google search including noting down where they are on a map. Then I group things together by area to formulate a plan. If you don’t have long for your trip, roughly plan what you’d like to do each day. Then do all the leg work back at home to save you precious time when you’re away. Book online entry to museums in advance as they often include ‘queue jump’. Look for restaurants in advance so you have a few options up your sleeve and don’t have to wander the streets miserably trying to find a place. I like to know i have already read a few reviews as a bad meal can ruin a good day of site seeing. Try Foursquare app for this, I love it. Last but not least - pack light!
be Asia and maybe a short break in Marrakech. What else takes up your time / do you love to do? Most of my time is taken up by my busy job, however it has given me the fantastic opportunity to travel to Miami and Cape Town on photoshoots. When I have some down time I spend it with friends; mainly eating out in London or trying out some new rooftop bar (follow my Instagram for an insight). That’s if I’m not travelling of course!
Website www.laurahatesmushrooms.com Twitter @laurahmushrooms Instagram @laurahatesmushooms_travel
Leisure & Lifestyle
IT’S ALL CHILDS PLAY Spooktacular Fun - Have an ‘incy-wincy’ bit of fun this Halloween
I
n October, a time of ghoulish costumes, grinning pumpkins, creepy crawlies and things that go bump in the night! Whether you love or hate trick or treating, (personally I can’t abide it and delight in taking homemade cookies to all our neighbours to spread cheer instead), spiders and witches are likely to feature somewhere in the celebrations. Which brings me to my 10-year-old son’s brain teaser – ‘Would you rather bathe in eels or shower in spiders?’ – Hobson’s choice if ever there was one, although if pushed it would have to be eels!
Spiders and creepy crawlies have a special role in scaring the life out of many of us. There’s something about their speed and unpredictability, not to mention the fangs poised for action. Or perhaps it’s just too easy to imagine them scaled up like some scary sci fi creature? For a young baby, watching a daddy long legs walking precariously on its delicate limbs is a thing of wonder to marvel at. Intrigued by its bobbing movement but already conscious of not wanting it to come too close, of course adult’s reactions to spiders help shape children’s future fears. Anyone familiar with nursery rhymes and fairytales will know that suspense, excitement and a surprising amount of horror are essentials for captivating and thrilling children. With most fairytales exploring the polarities of good and evil, beauty and the beast, spiders, dragons, witches and creepy crawlies add to the interest of peek a boo and hide and seek as Incy Wincy disappears and reappears to a squeal of delight. Scary as they are, Bruno Bettleheim understood the importance of children being exposed to contained ‘islands’ of scariness, preparing children as they do for life’s ups and downs and helping them face their fears. 40
With a bit of inventiveness, Halloween can help capture children’s interest and get them involved in exploration, reading, writing, maths and crafts. Unlock children’s imagination with story-telling, from ‘Aaaarrgghh, Spider’ to ‘Harry Potter’, with a range of voices and some well-chosen props, prepare to watch children delight in their magical spookiness. Or make counting fun by weighing and mixing up potions or wizard’s favourite fairground game catching rubbery spiders and snakes hiding in yukky tubs. October is the perfect time to fuel children’s imagination with some scary stories and these creepy crafts and ‘spooktacular’ activities.
fun finding them with spoons,tongs or with their hands and eyes shut! Make a cluster of furry spiders to decorate yourhouse for Halloween by gluing cardboard legs ontowoollen pompoms and attaching googly eyes. Create 3D cobwebs by sticking uncooked spaghettito card. Decorate using glitter or string for thethread. Play a game of moving like spiders and othercreepy crawlies. Make your own spooky bread rolls in the shape ofspiders or coiled up snakes. Make magic spider’s web or ghostly pictures bydrawing on white paper with a wax candle. Simplycover with black paint to reveal the spookypicture.
Why not try out these ideas for ghoulish fun this October, if you dare! Sue is a published author, trainer, educational consultant and therapeutic play practitioner. She is the founder and Cre-
Make spooky lanterns from small boxes or kitchentowel rolls and glow sticks. Simply make eye andmouth holes (and decorate if wish) then pop aglow stick inside and watch an army of alien eyesstaring at you!
ative Director of Play to Z Ltd, specialist providers of award winning Sensory Play resources. For more fun, sensory play activities, Sue’s latest research, resources and training go to www.playtoz.co.uk. By Sue Gascoyne
Pop a few plastic creepy crawlies, plastic bowl andwooden spoon in a bubble bath for some soapypotion mixing fun!
Hide plastic or rubber spiders in bowls of sand, shredded paper, dried couscous or pasta forchildren to have October / November
o.uk laytoz.c sue@p
www.localzest.co.uk
41
Leisure & Lifestyle
KIDDERMINSTER THEATRE PRODUCER SMASHES BOX OFFICE “Professional Affordable Training”
First week FREE! Ages three to Eighteen (With Adult Classes)
Perform in... Full Scale Musical | Dance Competitions | Showcases
Classes in
R
ent, the Broadway smash hit musical has just debuted in Birmingham to rave reviews and sell out performances. The show generated tens of thousands of pounds and saw audience members queuing up for return tickets at the shows final performance. The man behind it all, Kidderminster’s very own Michael Neri. Owner and Director of ‘Talking Props Performing Arts Studio’ which he runs from his own studio at the Youth House here in Kidderminster. Michael is a former student of King Charles 1 High School and many years ago used to take to the stage in local musical productions. Now he produces professionally along with teaching in his studio. Michael said, ‘I always wanted to be involved in theatre, I didn’t really care how, as long I was doing what I loved, I’m very lucky to be doing two things I love, working professionally as a director and producer as well as having my own studio filled with talented children who come every week to take classes in Musical Theatre, Acting and Dance, they are so talented and always make me happy to be home when I’m back from working on a production’ Michael is now planning for his next production in London for 2017 as well as a planned tour later next year. Despite
42
October / November
being very busy in London and Birmingham he still finds time every week to direct his two youth productions. ‘It’s going to be a busy year on the producing side of the business but I just can’t wait to start back with my students in September, our senior production this year is Legally Blonde The Musical and our
Musical Theatre | Acting | Singing | Television Acting Ballet | Jazz | Contemporary | Tumbling | Acrobatics | Tap Private Lessons | Adult Classes |
Junior students are doing Aristocats which sounds charming. We have so much fun in the studio but we work hard and to a professional standard, each student is important and so is each class, whether Ballet or Acting. I’m very lucky to have exceptional staff who look after things when I’m away too’ Michael’s upcoming production for 2017 is set to be revealed very soon so keep your eyes peeled.
Talking Props are now enrolling for all their classes as well as for their two upcoming full scale musical productions, if your are aged 3 to 18 and want to get involved you can visit the website www.talkingprops.co.uk or call the studio on 07548 323773.
www.talkingprops.co.uk www.localzest.co.uk
43
www.localzest.co.uk
45
Leisure & Lifestyle
Whether you are planning a well earned night out with the other half or something with friends we have scoured the area to find out what’s happening and where during October & November.
Plus, dare we say.... half term?! Yes, we know it feels like those little people have only just gone back to school but half term really is, just around the corner!
Avoncroft Museum
THE ELO EXPERIENCE
Tuesday 25th October – Sunday 30th October.
Fri 14 Oct, Main Theatre Auditoriumlive music A tribute that’s jam-packed with musical talent PSYCHIC SALLY: CALL ME PSYCHIC
Thurs 20 Oct, Main Theatre Auditoriumdocumentary & interactive
Kidderminster Town Hall
Kemp Hospice Children Halloween Walk with new addition of Adult Halloween Walk!
The Laughing Pod Comedy Showcase - Friday 28 Oct 2016 7:00 PM A truly hilarious act, headling Mark Dolan. Not to miss Tickets £10
Registration is just £5 per child with
Your little Witches and Vampires will enjoy Halloween games and mini disco before heading off to visit the sleeping Gruffalo – will he still
Early bird tickets available (until 18th September) £17 Tickets: Stalls £19 Balcony £24
Adult Halloween Walk Who said Halloween is just for Children?! Kemp Hospice are excited to announce the addition of an Adult Halloween Walk, which will also take place on Saturday 29th October around the Wyre Forest at 9pm. We are looking for teams of friends, colleagues and family members to walk into the unknown this Halloween in support of KEMP. Dress up in your Halloween costumes for our terrifying woodland walk with surprise guests along the way! The best dressed team on the evening will win a prize. The 3 mile Trail of
Saturday 29th October around the Wyre Forest.
Kast off Kinks Saturday 12 Nov 2016 7:00 PM
be asleep?! Our scary story teller will lead the walk around the forest before returning for cake and a drink. the kind ask that each child raises as
Terror promises to keep you on
Featuring former members of 60’s supergroup The Kinks A show not to be missed
much as possible in sponsorship to
your toes!
Featuring all the hits “Lola” Waterloo Sunset” “Come Dancing”
All previous Children’s Walks have
help us continue our vital work in the Wyre Forest.
sold out very quickly, so we would recommend booking your children’s places as soon as possible.
For all booking information or further details visit www. kidderminstertownhall.org.uk
46
The Palace Theatre
We have 300 places available over 3 time slots – 4pm, 5:30pm & 7pm.
October / November
Registration is just £15 per person to also include Halloween games, disco, Spook-tails & Ghoulish Bites as well as a Halloween to remember! This is a sponsored event, so we do encourage all participants to raise sponsorship please. Call 01562 756077 for more information and details or contact Shelley on events@ kemphospice.org.uk
The nations favourite psychic, Sally Morgan is back and better than ever with her brand new and most jaw-dropping show yet – ‘Call Me Psychic’. LES MCKEOWN BAY CITY ROLLERS Wed 26 Oct, Main Theatre Auditoriumlive music Join Les McKeown and his 4 piece band for a celebration of the amazing Bay City Rollers phenomena. All the hit songs are there and you are promised a fantastic night of fun and nostalgia as they take you on a trip back to those innocent days of growing up. For booking information or further details visit www.redditchpalacetheatre. co.uk
Creep down to Avoncroft this half term for ‘spook-tacular’ fun. Make your own witch’s broomstick, listen to Tales from the Crypt, ride the Ghost Train (Tuesday only – charge applies), create your own creepy crafts, brave the hidden horrors trail and carve your own pumpkin (£4). Dont forget to see if you can frighten the Avoncroft staff by wearing your best Halloween costume!
Trick or Treat at Avoncroft Museum Saturday 29th, Sunday 30th & Monday 31st October – Tours start from 6.30pm, last tour 9.00pm. Are you brave enough to trick or treat with us? If so join us on Saturday,Sunday or Monday night when we have a ghoulish evening planned for you! This is a fun event, however there will be scares (and sweets), parental discretion is advised as it may not be suitable for very young visitors and people of a sensitive disposition. Tickets are £8 each for non-members and £6 each for members. Please call to book on 01527 831363. Early booking is advised as this event always sells out!
Black Country Living Museum – 22nd – 30th October Go on the hunt for all things gruesome as we disgust and delight you over half term. Take on our revolting trail where you’ll encounter putrid props, scary spiders and repulsive rats! Learn about the pests that once plagued the Black Country. Get hands on with some creepy crafts Discover the delights of playtime in the last century, banish boredom with traditional street games including hopscotch and skipping. Take up the challenge to see how long you can keep the hoop rolling in the hoop and stick game and test your skill with a cup and ball and the whip and top.
Worcestershire County Museum – 25th-28th October 2016 Four fun family days of Autumn and Halloween themed craft activities. You can also carve a pumpkin for your Halloween celebrations…. An additional charge of £2 per child applies for the day's activities, plus a small charge for your pumpkin. For more information visit www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Prices - Adults £5, child & concess £2.50, under fives free, family ticket £13
www.localzest.co.uk
47
Leisure & Lifestyle
48
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
49
The Big Day!
The Key is in the Preparation
Wedding
Did you know the average UK wedding now costs on average £17,000? The to do lists are endless and all those gorgeous added extras are essential aren’t they? I mean, where do you start? Venues, dates, dresses, suits, honeymoons, invitations, colour schemes, guest lists, entertainment, transport, florist, photographer, caterers... I could be here all day! The average engagement is around 14 months...I clearly took my time with a 6 year engagement! But, you have to make sure these things are right don’t you?! So, while 14 months may feel like a long time, in wedding planning terms, you have nothing to lose by getting the wheels in motion. Our checklist is by no means exhaustive but goes some way to putting all those to do’s into context.
Finishing Touches... My personal favourite finishing touch was a wedding I attended two years ago now where during the evening reception a beautifully presented basket of flips flops in a variety of sizes were available for the guests to continue dancing the night away in comfort! Genius!
Final Thought... My own wedding was quite understated, abroad, on the beach, in the sunshine.... Sounds idyllic right? It 50
really was.... for me and him indoors but everybody’s wedding day is truly unique and should be a day planned for and around the those taking centre stage that day. Enjoy every moment, the date will soon arrive and be over in the blink of an eye.
Wedding Fun Facts In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health. Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart. In the symbolic language of jewels, a sapphire in a wedding ring means marital happiness. A pearl engagement ring is said to be bad luck because its shape echoes that of a tear. In many cultures around the world—including Celtic, Hindu and Egyptian
October / November
P weddings—the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together to demonstrate the couple's commitment to each other and their new bond as a married couple (giving us the popular phrase "tying the knot"). The tradition of a bride wearing "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue," comes from an Old English rhyme. Something old represents continuity; something new offers optimism for the future; something borrowed symbolizes borrowed happiness; something blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity.
Budget Venue Date Transport Cakes Flowers Favours Photogrpahy Videography Stationery Gift List Honeymoon Ceremony Reception
Entertainment Catering Guest Lists Dress/
Accessories/shoes Suits Bridsemaid/
Best Man & Ushers
Hair
& Make up Music
lanning a wedding becomes a military operation, what with long lost relatives to please, bridesmaids outfits to choose, meals to plan, pre wedding celebrations to arrange, it’s any wonder that come the big day the star for the day has even thought about themselves! We want to help make sure that if your big
To liven up a dull complexion visit a local beauty salon for a series of facials but never do this two weeks before as you want to be sure the treatments suit you and you do not have any adverse reactions. I am a huge fan of the skincare ranges in The Body Shop, the Vitamin E moisture range is a staple on my dress-
day is approaching or you have just got engaged that the lovely bride remembers to take time to focus on themselves to ensure they are in tip top condition.
ing table especially the moisture mask and serum! I have always been a makeup junkie but over the last few years I have come to fully understand and appreciate that without good skincare, you are never preparing the base for the make-up on top! Removing make-up and cleansing, toning and moisturising have to be a daily occurrence.
First up hair... To guarantee beautiful bridal hair on the big day, it will need a little TLC. We all know that everyday styling can lead to damaged hair so start by repairing from the inside out. Experts tell us that Vitamin B helps bring out your hair's natural shine and just by eating foods like fish, nuts, and eggs will give you a good head start. About four weeks prior to the big day try a deep conditioning treatment combined with a scalp massage to help stimulate the hair follicles and add body. Ensure you have an appointment with your hairdresser before the big day to trial the options you want and actually what will suit.
Next up Skincare... Now this one is really individual as everyone’s skin requirements are very different but here are a few pointers for some of the common skin problems. If you suffer with acne, it is well worth beginning this process 6 months prior to the big day, investing in an appointment with a dermatologist can really help too. I personally had to see a dermatologist after 12 years of suffering with bad skin and have never looked back after just 4 months of treatment.
Exfoliation and moisturising are must do’s to keep your skin in great condition, ensure you use a facial and body scrub at least twice a week and slather the moisturiser on daily! You won’t regret it, skin feels smoother, softer and more toned. Keep your lips in peak condition with a lip scrub and plenty of moisture. The last thing you want for that big moment is cracked, dry lips. My particular favourite for this is Lush Bubblegum lip scrub, ridiculously sweet and yummy and leaves your lips feeling super soft. To top it off u can never go wrong with a layer of Vaseline lip therapy. Last but by no means least, is an easy one...make sure you are drinking plenty of water!!
Make Up The final layer, the finishing touches before you head to the venue. Even if you wear make-up everyday or just for special occasions the same rules apply, keep it simple, neutral and do not forget the waterproof mascara. When choosing a foundation make sure you visit your local department store and have the lovely ladies assist you with colour matching – the most important thing about foundation. You will need to consider the finish you want from your foundation but a wedding day is a long day so I would recommend something long lasting, my personal go to is Estee Lauder Double Wear. When choosing the colours for your eyes, stick with gorgeous champagnes and neutrals, which work perfectly with all eye colours. Eye shadows with a touch of shimmer and less matte are definitely more wearable and subtle to ensure your make up is kept timeless. Lipstick has more durability than a gloss, there are so many gorgeous crème formulas that last longer than a gloss but are not as harsh as a matte option. Choose a colour with pinky undertones, again this can be trial and error dependant on your skin tone but definitely a timeless choice that is easy to re apply throughout the day and most importantly keep your eyeliner and mascara either black or brown but definitely waterproof!
www.localzest.co.uk
51
52
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
53
Wedding
AUTUMNAL HAIR COLOURS TO OPT FOR ZEST speaks to Lisa Shepherd, colour Queen on Channel 4’s 10 Years Younger and Creative Director @LISA salon in Kidderminster, to discuss autumn hair colours! The hair is totally "worn out" from the summer months, so relieve it and opt for a more subtle boost of colour. In terms of colour trends, now's the time to go a deep honey, autumnal blonde. Have there been any recent examples of public figures donning these colours? I know a lot of women, including myself, seek a new colour, cut or general change to our hair as the seasons change. What are your top hair colour trends to opt for this Autumn? Although summer is almost over, it's now when I really start to work against the grain in the hair colour. We're not governed of course, but, it's this time of year that I tend to take my client's hair tones lighter or warmer, instead of the traditional darker shades people used to go for in the winter months.
Every public figure who has is currently boasting caramel balayage, is now either starting to ramp it up or cool it right down. But, the crucial learning behind any toning decision is to not let your balayage grow out too much, as it can make your lovely locks look instantly and unbelievably flat, dull and ageing." Public figures with honey blonde balayage are Rosie Huntington Whitely, Kate, Beckinsale and Sofia Vergara.
In recent months, we have seen a huge rise in temporary, non-committal water washes. There is also washing and or glazing, which last about 6-8 washes – we've noticed people want that flexibility nowadays, so don't want to be fixed to a one colour look. What are the colours to avoid during the cooler months and why? Ah this tricky, as colour isn't based on any seasonal aspect, it's still no matter what time of year, totally based around skin tone. Any tips on autumnal cut and style trends for 2016? I have seen and felt a phenomenal rise of the bottle blonde again, as well as re lifting balayage roots, blonde or "light". It is just simply at lot kinder to skin full stop, but what kind of light/blonde is the question as it's so crucial to get right
For the less bold-what are the best subtle autumn colour changes?
www.localzest.co.uk
55
Horoscopes
56
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
57
Health & Fitness
58
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
59
Health & Fitness
60
October / November
www.localzest.co.uk
61
Puzzles
62
October / November
Local Life Here at Local Zest we were delighted to hear from one of our readers Jean Hill after she received her copy of Local Zest which she found “very interesting and useful”.
more out of your marketing with
Jean moved to Kidderminster recently in 2015 and has recently had her book “Country Life” published. You can read Jean’s true life story, raw and heartfelt recollections of a kind and tireless woman, who strives to work hard and be happy in the country... and who puts family first.
Puzzle Solutions
64
Country Life is available to buy on Amazon and Kindle now.
Call Marie on 01902 906020 or email marie@localzest.co.uk
October / November
Motoring Car Insurance
By Martin Lewis @moneysavingexpert edited by Sam Richards
This is a warning for everyone who pays for car insurance - check NOW if you can slash the cost. Do note, I haven’t said “If you’re at renewal”; it’s important to do this even if that’s many months away. Car insurance prices have exploded over the last year, up 20% according to the AA index, while the ‘Association of British Insurers’ says 10%. And both predict rises to continue this year. For full help, see my cheap car insurance system at www.moneysavingexpert.com/carinsurance.
1. Ensure you’re on TODAY’S cheapest deal, then if prices rise, you’re protected If the predictions are correct and prices keep moving up, today’s prices will soon look cheap. Plus, many are overpaying already, especially those who just auto-renewed. Here’s what to do: - AT RENEWAL? Then it’s easy, just move to the next point. - RENEWAL WITHIN 60 DAYS? Some firms such as www.aviva.co.uk , www. Nationwide.co.uk and www.LV.com give quotes valid for 60 days so get one now, then check against quotes at renewal time. As @dimuthuj7 tweeted: “@MartinSLewis. Renewal £521. Quote a month ago, which was honored, of £319. Thanks.” - MIDWAY THROUGH A POLICY? Follow the steps below to see if you can save a chunk by switching. If so, provided you’ve not claimed, for a £50ish admin fee (factor that in) you can usually cancel and get the rest of the year refunded. You won’t earn the year’s no-claims bonus, but if it means you save now and prevent future price rises it can be a big winner.
66
2. Don’t just use one comparison site, combine them. There’s no one cheapest insurer, as prices are set individually. So the aim is to check as many quotes as possible, quickly and easily. Comparison sites do that, yet they don’t all cover the same insurers or even give the same price for the same insurer, so use more than one. My current order’s www.Confused.com, www.Gocompare.com and www.MoneySupermarket.com. If you can, use all three. 3. Then check the biggies comparison sites miss. www.DirectLine.com, www.Aviva. co.uk and www.Zurich.co.uk won’t appear on comparison sites, but can be competitive especially if you’ve no convictions and a clean licence. As @ damianderby tweeted me: “Did your car insurance checklist and saved £100 (1/3) off my renewal. It was Aviva. Pays to go past the comparison sites.” 4. Hidden hot deals comparison sites miss... There are also special promo deals around, some of which aren’t listed on comparison sites. These often mean you get, say, £60 Amazon voucher or free gifts with policies. There’s a daily updated list of the hottest at www. moneysavingexpert.com/carinsur-
October / November
ance. If you’re a member of cashback websites, you may also be able to get money back on the policy you’ve chosen. 5. Check multi-car policies if you’ve more than one car in the home A few insurers offer special discounts if you have more than one car. It’s always worth trial and error to compare these against standalone deals. Sadly, comparison sites’ tech doesn’t allow this, so you need to do it manually. www.Admiral.com Multicar gives discounts of up to 25% depending on how many cars you insure. You can also get discounts by linking the household standalone policies with www.Churchill.com, www.DirectLine. co.uk and www.Privilege.co.uk. 6. Check if comprehensive is cheaper than third party I know this doesn’t make sense. Yet merely selecting comprehensive means some insurers see you as a lower risk, and it lowers the price. So if you want the cheapest cover, check if comprehensive’s cheaper. Martin Lewis is the Founder & Editor in Chief of Money Saving Expert. To join the 10 million people who get his Martin’s Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/ latesttip