Shropshire Magazine December 2022

51 Charity

The Shrewsbury Charity Christmas CardShop is still going strong after 55 years, as Daniel Morris discovers

55 Book

Heather Large meets acouple whose research into aLudlow street has led them to write a fascinating account of its history

58 Celebrity

Musical star and presenter Michael Ball brings his theatre experience to his debut novel

CONTENTS

66 Food &drink

Achat with TV chef Gino D’Acampo, plus 12 pages of festiverecipes and ideas to get you in the mood for Christmas

84 School memories

Three former pupils in their 80s and 90s return to Concord College which they affectionately remember from adifferent era

100 Social scene

The Posh Frocks Charity Dinner in Telfordwhich raised funds for the Harry Johnson Trust

106 Beauty Unwrap make-up, skincareand hair treats throughout December with these advent calendars

108 Fashion

Areyou excited for coat season? High street collections arefull of catwalk-inspired ideas ready to refresh your winter look

112 Shopping Makebuying giftsawhole lot morespecial by heading to one of these Christmas markets, says Sarah Marshall

OH,CHRISTMASTREE

IT’S THE BUSY SEASON FOR CHRISTMAS TREE GROWERS. HEATHER LARGE GOES BEHIND THE SCENES AT LEATON FOREST AS THEY GET READY FOR HARVESTTIME

There is nothing quite like a real Christmas tree and formany families choosing their own from the field is amuch-loved tradition.

At Leaton Forest, near Shrewsbury, around 2,000 trees, planted and cared for by the dedicated team, are sold every year

Richard Dowman has been involved in nurturing the plantations for thepast 12 years and has seen many familiar faces return duringthe festive season year after year to pick their tree.

“I’ve watched children grow up and I’ve seen teenagers come back when they are older with their own children. It’s nice to see people come back andbuild a relationship with people,” says the father of three.

Thousands of trees of varying heights and varieties can be found across 14 acres of land, which forms part of the Leaton Knolls Estate.

Every year, thegrowers replenish the forest by planting new saplings, which are sourced from trusted suppliers

“We only buy them from sources we know and trust,” explains Richard. “We know then that they’ve got the right start to life and they been well looked after ”

The new trees, which are usually around four-years-old when they go in the ground, are planted in the gaps left behind those that have already been harvested.

Although manygrowers will plant saplings shortly before the startofspring, Richard prefers to plant Leaton Forest’s crops in the autumn, which he says has many benefits for the young trees.

“There is still moisture in the ground. If you plant in spring, then by summer the moisture has gone. In autumn, the trees are entering dormancy and have abetterchance of survival. Ithink this makes amassive difference,” he exp x lains

Often growers will plant the same species in the same area but Richard takes adifferent approach.

“I’m not atraditional Christmas tree grower, ” he says

“My background is in arboriculture

RichardDowman of Leaton Forest.

and forestry so some of the ideas come from there.

“Traditionally,Christmastrees of the same species are grown together but we vary what we grow each year and mix the species up.”

This reduces the risk of disease spreading throughout the same species and potentially wiping out a large number of trees.

Important members of theteam at Leaton Forest are the Shropshiresheep who graze on the grass growing amongst the trees

“We try not to use too much pesticide and herbicide. The flock graze betw t een the trees and it means we’re not using a strimmer or herbicide so it’s more environmentally friendly

“Wh W ere the sheep don’t go, we will useastrimmer or rough terrain mower,” explains Richard.

There is never aquiet day when managing aChristmas tree forest as they require constant care and attention throughout the year

“Everything is done by hand. The trees are hand-planted, hand-trimmed and hand-felled. It’s quite labour intensive butit’s worth it,” says Richard.

It can take six to seven years for some species to reach 6ft while Nordmann Firs may require afull decade to reach that height

Leaton Forest is amemberof the British Christmas Tree Growers Association, which is dedicated to representing and actively supporting growers across the UK

Richard says the organisation, with more than 300 members selling approximately six to eight million trees per year, is also on hand to offer advice

Species grown at Leaton Forest include the Nordmann Fir, which has

AmixtureofNorway Spruce, Siberian Spruce and Blue Spruce at Leaton Forest Christmas Trees in Shrewsbury.

Trevor Garside

been themost popular variety t sold at the estate and across the UK in recent years.

The tree is dark green and well branched with asilver underside to the soft needles; it also has the most uniform shape.

The team also grows Norway Spruce, which is considered the oldest traditional Christmas tree It has abushy shapeand it is easy to hang decorationsonthe many branches.

Other varieties include Douglas Fir, which is very bushy with soft aromatic needles. It is very popular in the USA and Canada where it is indigenous.

They also offer Fraser Fir, which have asimilar shape to the Nordmann Fir but with anarrower form and different needle formation.

Other options include the Korean Firwhich has asimilar colour to the Nordmann with very good branch formation, and the Noble Firwhich is more horizontally branched than the other firs and has beautiful silvery blue needles.

It’s no surprise that the run-upto Christmas is the busiest time of year with the team fulfilling orders for trees and welcoming customers on site.

Not only are LeatonForest’s trees destined for homes across the region, but they are also chosen to be thecentrepiece of villages and towns in thecounty t

Town and parish councils along with Shrewsbury BID are among those who source their trees from the estate

From November 26 until December 23, the site is open to the publicwho can choose from trees ready cut in the yard, or out in the plantations.

“People can choose their tree and cut it down with ahand saw,” says Richard. “It’s nice meeting people. It gets abit stressful at that time of year but it is enjoyable.

“Wh W at’s really nice is when Igoout fora meal and someone stops me and thanks me for their tree. One time Iwas ordering apintoflemonade at the bar and they told me it had already been paid for

“Across the room was aman waving at me,Ihad sold him aChristmas tree.”

During November and December, Leaton Forest also offers its popular Christmas wreath-making workshops, run by Richard’s wife Cerys.

This year they take place on November 28 and 30 as well as December 5, 7, 9, 12, 14 and 16.

“They are shown how to make a wreath with friendly people, they have a good time and they don’t have to make a mess in their own house

“The wreath making is really popular, we get a lot of returning customers

People started registering in August for it,” says Richard. Participants, just need to bringtheir own secateurs andgardening gloves, as all the materials they need are provided and hot drinks andcakes are also available on the night.

Growing Christmas treesis a satisfying and rewarding process, Richard says. “The ground conditions and the way wetreat the trees works and produces good trees.”

To help customers keep their trees as healthy as possible during the festive season, he recommends keeping the tree outside in water,out of its net and away from frost, until they are ready to bring it indoors.

“Cut tw t oand ahalf centimetres off the bottom of the stump, use awatering holding stand and don’t let it run dry. Take it into the house as late as possible,”

says Richard. He also advises people to keep their tree away from any heat sources such as radiators or log burners once they have brought it indoors.

Alongside the Christmas trees, over the last few years Leaton Forest has been producing and selling good quality t , ethically-sourced and managed wood fuel from the woodlands on the Leaton Knolls Estate.

The wood is air-dried, which is a slower but more energy g efficient way to dry wood, and the lower moisture content allows the logs to burn better and produce more heat.

n Foropening times, visit leatonforest. co.uk/ k christmastrees and for more information about theBritish Christmas Tree Growers Association, visit www. bctga.co.uk

Joe Palmer harvesting Nordmann Firtrees

Introducingour GP Led Menopause Clinics

At Nuffield HealthShrewsburyHospital, thereisno waiting forappointments, prescriptions, or referrals.

If you have abusy schedule, aprivate GP is theperfect way to make sure your healthdoesn’tget side-lined. Appointments areavailable at short notice and offered to anybody aged over 18. Thereisalso no need to be registered with an NHS GP.

Dr Kate Jones and Dr Sarah Watton are delighted to now be launching a‘GP Led Menopause Clinic’ at the Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital.

During adedicated menopause appointment you willreceive personalised care, with time to discuss your symptoms and concerns in detail.Wewill make full assessment of your current health including risks for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and breast cancer,and what can be done to reduce these risks. We may also recommend blood tests, if appropriate, and help you arrange these at the hospital if you wish. We will discuss management options for perimenopausal, and menopausal symptoms based on your current symptoms, background health and lifestyle. If you would like treatment with HRTwewill help you make an informed decision about what type of treatment is most appropriate and safe foryou. We areable to prescribe the full range of HRTtreatments including body identical hormones.

Dr Kate Jones

Kate has worked as aGPinShropshirefor over 15 years and has abreadth of experience in providing allaspects of General Practice formen and women. Her special interests include menopause management, contraception; including fitting and removing contraceptive coils and implants, anddiabetes.

In addition to working at The Nuffield Health Hospital, Kate continues to work locally,asaGPinthe NHS.She also has a role for Health Education England, as aProgramme Director for GP training in Shropshire, teaching theGPs of tomorrow.

Dr Sarah Watton

Sarah Watton began hercareer in Health Care in 1989 as aphysiotherapist specialising in musculoskeletal conditions, beforetraining in medicine and qualifying from University College Londonin1999. After ahospital career in anaesthetics, she entered GP training in 2005. She has recently retired from GP partnership having workedin general practice as apartner for 13 years,but continues to work as aGPwithin the NHSinaddition to providing GP sessions at the Nuffield Hospital Shrewsbury.

She is experienced in all aspects of General Practice formen and women andenjoys elderly care. Her special interests within women’shealth aremanagement of the menopause and coil and implant fitting.

FROM LOLLYPOP TO WICKEDQUEEN

MATTHEW PANTER CHATS TO PANTOSTARANNA KUMBLE ABOUT HER ROLE IN SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

You might think channelling her inner baddie is a bit of a challenge for Anna Kumble. After all, as 90s pop star Lolly, she was loved by young fans through a string of top ten hits including Viva La Radio, Mickey and Rockin’ Robin Sweet, fun and energetic in those bubblegum pop days, it’s hard to imagine Anna playing the ‘bad girl’ role in pantomime

Yes, she’s been a Tinkerbell Sure, she’s shone as Snow White, and, of course, glistened as a Fairy Godmother She’s been there and done it as a reassuring on stage presence for the audience to get behind and champion But a baddie? Surely not?

And yet boo! hiss! Times are changing As panto season hits the

region, Anna’s set to deliver her latest performance as The Wicked Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Telford Theatre And she can’t wait

“I’m more excited about this one because I get to play a baddie and I’ve never done that before!” she says. “It’s going to be a challenge but I have always wanted to play a bad role and never had the opportunity It will be fun ”

Quite how wickedly devious or marvellously malevolent this Queen will be is still processing in her mind

“Will I be a sinister baddie or not?” she questions “Shall I play it like Angelina Jolie, a Maleficent style baddie, or just be a cackling witch? I’ll see how it goes when I get into rehearsals!”

Time will tell and there’s no doubt Shropshire audiences will be relishing

seeing her transformation. After all, we all love a good pantomime, don’t we?

“It’s the only genre of theatre where every age bracket can enjoy it together,” says Anna “From babes in arms to grandmas, we can all watch it and get something from it, whether it’s the shining lights and gorgeous colours to pantomime dames and slapstick for the older generation

“It’s just a wonderful British art and something I hope will remain and carry on forever I think most people love it I know I do ”

Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs hits the stage in Oakengates from December 8 to January 2 and also features EastEnders favourite Sam Attwater as The Prince Carl Dutfield is Muddles, Chloe

Barlow stars as Snow White and Sophie Jane Walters is Fairy Fortune

And then there’s Ian Smith, who stars as Dame Dolly and is also directing the show, which he is predicting audiences will love

“I think Telford is in for a treat this year!” he says, with enthusiasm and excitement in his voice “We have a great cast this year so I am not worried at all “Sam has a great voice and West End credits. Chloe is coming back as well and has worked with Anna previously, and we also have Sophie It should be good and I am looking forward to it

“There are some really big moments There’s one moment in act one I won’t give anything away where we have something spectacular planned that Telford has never seen before “Every year we try to up the production value and this year is no different It’s really exciting ”

There are new costumes too and, for a Dame, that means an awful lot of hard work

“The thing with a Dame is that, historically, they enter the stage in a new outfit, top to toe, all the time

“So whenever you are off stage, you are still working When the others are off stage, they can sit and have a cup of tea

“And then I’m there getting stripped down, harnessed back into something and tightened!

“They aren’t light outfits either! I have

a completely brand new wardrobe this year, never seen before in Telford, and some of it is gravity defying

“I’ll have a bad back by January! But it will be totally worth it and it is great fun ”

That’s what it is all about of course fun!

And, emerging from a heartbreaking pandemic and coping with a cost of living crisis, let’s face it, we all need that bit of fun A bit of laughter goes a long way

For Ian, being involved in pantomime it’s his 20th year is particularly enjoyable because of the wave of the pleasure it brings for the whole family

“It’s full of comedy on every different level,” he says “So we might be talking about a cream pie to the face or a bit of innuendo off the Dame

“Pantomime is the only show out there where you can go as a full family unit and, so, while performing, you have this whole range of an audience where you know a gag is going to land well with someone

“It’s generally part of people’s festivities too, whether in the build up or in between Christmas and New Year, and that’s what makes it so special for me ”

N the sh his ye perfor “I done l Beans or m o it a orwa oo!” A perfor will al “I ery l where he say “L Mudd ogeth hows “ eac tog fun bad an br ike fa reati lifeti Yo elfor t Oa

ow Ian’s busily gearing up for ow to get under way and, in all ars, it will be a first He’s never med in Snow White before have spent years in Cinderella and ots of Aladdin and Jack and the talk but this is the first Snow White e, so I am really looking forward nd I think my family are looking rd to seeing something different he said.

nd, he’s confident that mixing ming and directing is something he so enjoy have been doing it (panto) for a ong time so it’s quite easy to see I fit into the picture as director,” s uckily Carl, who is playing les this year, and I have performed er for eight years now at various

We know each other well. We know h other’s timing, how to work ether and how to get something ny out of it ” With Anna conveying her routine for the first time and inging the laughs, it looks milies across Telford will be ng pantomime memories to last me this Christmas u can book tickets online at dtheatre com, pop in to the theatre kengates or call 01952 382382

FROM TOPLEFT:

CLOCKWISE

Anna Kumble will be performing as the Wicked Queen in SnowWhite and the Seven Dwarfs; Anna has previously played nice roles such as The Fairy Godmother; Ian Smith as Dame Dolly; Chloe BarlowasSnow White; Carl Dutfield (Muddles), Chloe Barlow and Ian Smith.

NEW FROM OLD

Elm Cottage is a beautiful, sensitively restored and extended cottage, set in the delightful village of Blymhill with expansive views over unspoilt open countryside It is on the market with Savills, with a guide price of £650,000

The original part of Elm Cottage, dating from the medieval period, is timber framed, with brick and stone, complemented by the late 20th century extension which has been designed in the 18th century vernacular with traditional detailing, while concealing contemporary insulated construction The historic element has been carefully restored and partly rebuilt incorporating insulation and under floor heating

Internally, there is extensive original oak framing and beamed ceilings defining and enhancing the living spaces, while polished Georgian floor tiles flow throughout the ground floor

From the oak framed porch, the front door opens into the entrance hall, then stairs, living room and kitchen lead off

the inner hall The living room retains many original features including the historic inglenook with open fireplace, while both the dining area and living room have views reaching into the garden

The farmhouse style dining kitchen provides a further entertaining space of character It has bespoke joiner crafted base and wall cupboards with Corian sink, Ceasarstone and American oak tops, and a Stanley range

The laundry room off the kitchen has bespoke cupboards, sink and appliance voids and tall cupboard There is a WC, coat cupboard and store room off the hall

The exposed oak framing is a feature to the stairs and landing, leading to bedrooms and bathroom. The principal bedroom has original polished oak floorboards, divided from the dressing room with further timber framing, both having built in wardrobes Two further double bedrooms also have fitted wardrobes.

The Victorian style family bathroom has joinery made cupboards with basin and Carrara marble top

To the exterior is the garage and open bay accommodating two cars, a workshop and outside toilet An internal stair leads to the light and spacious home office/studio serviced with ample sockets, telephone and internet connection

There is also a garden tool shed, and a walled enclosure at the end of the garden accommodates the oil tank, log cutting and storage space, and has vehicular access.

The delightful landscaped garden designed has a sweeping lawn with mature shrub planting providing all year round colour

Blymhill is close to Shifnal and Newport with a range of restaurants and supermarkets, with Telford 20 minutes’ and Shrewsbury 40 minutes’ drive away

The village is within easy reach of M54 junction 3 There is also a wide choice of local schools within easy reach

Properties of the month

Ironbridge,Shropshire

One of the mostnotable houses in coalbrookdale,set within aunescoworld heritage site, original features, close to well respected schools, opportunity to run ab&b, council tax band: G, EPC: D

Guide £875,000

Shrewsbury,Shropshire

Acharacterful home with charming gardens and grounds, &separatestudio,the A49provides access ontothe A5 and M54 forTelford, Shrewsbury and Chester, Shrewsbury train station offers adirect lines to London Euston

Guide £650,000 | Freehold

Hinstock, Shropshire

Set within asmall countryside village of Hinstock, secluded home office, privatedrivefor plenty of parking, beautifully maintained gardens, opportunity foragym subject to planning, council tax band: F, EPC:F

Guide

QUALITY CONVERSION

Old Russet Barn is asuperbly located, high quality barn conversion with grass pasture and an array of outbuildings providing scope for equestrian, ancillary business or smallholding use.

Located in Stanwardine in the Fields in north Shropshire, theproperty is on

the market with Jackson Equestrianwith a guide price of £825,000.

The property is an attractive former brick barn, which was tastefully converted to provide afantastic family home.

Old Russet Barn is entered via an immaculate gated pedestrian pathway, with raised flower beds and further

ornamental stoned front garden space, leading to the front door.Beyond here is aprivate,south/west facing garden-terrace which is perfect for outdoor entertaining.

The reception hall leads to the large open-plan living room immediately to the left, with afeature fireplace and woodburning stove. The glass-fronted room provides excellent light and views to the front of the property

Leading on from the entrance is a cloakroom with WC and wash basin. Ahead leads to the kitchen/breakfast room, with bespoke wooden kitchen units. From the kitchen is aconveniently positioned utility room.

Further along the hall is the staircase leading to the first floor bedroom, with en-suite bathroom.

The east wing of the property,via the hallway,features asecond bedroom with en-suite WC, and aFrench door to the front terrace. Leading on along the hallway,is the newlyrefitted family bathroom.

Beyond here is bedroom three with built-in storage and bedroom four which

is aspacious bedroom with afurther French door to the south-facing frontage.

The property enjoys excellent outside entertainment areas, including the front terrace and the rear terrace which leads directly from the kitchen.

The land is currently grass pasture, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the fields.

Old Russet Barn includes several excellent outbuildings, including a modern agricultural building which has been equipped for education/office/ business use.

In addition, there aresteel portal framed barns ideally suited to housing stabling, livestock or machinery.An additional barn with concrete base and storage/tack room is included.

Stanwardine in theFields is a delightfully rural hamlet which lies within easy reach of Baschurch to the south and the town of Shrewsbury within 20 minutes drive.

The property is easily accessible from the road, via an attractive sweeping stone driveway with post and rail fencing,

passing an attractive natural pooland mature trees.

The house is fronted with an ornamental stone parking area andan oak-framed garage –currently under construction to be completed prior to sale completion.

PRODUCTIVEFARM IN TWOLOTS

Ysgafell Farm is ahighly productive farm comprising a 17th century farmhouse bursting with character and acombination of both traditional and more modern outbuildings.

The property in Aberhafesp, Powys, is on the market with Roger Parry in two lots, with Lot 1for offers in excess of £1,600,000 and Lot 2for offers in excess of £200,000

Ysgafell provides an excellent opportunity in apicturesque whilst easily accessible location, with acharming house and gardens providing the ideal layout for keeping livestock.

Asecondary income is also possible through the letting of the annexe and there may be development potential in the buildings (subject to obtaining planning consent).

Lot 1–Ysgafell Farm is located near Caersws within the beautiful Powys countryside. It is conveniently situated close to the towns of both Llanidloes and Newtown, and is less thanan hour’s drive from thecoast in Aberdovey.The property equally has excellent road links.

Lot 2–Bryn at Glynrhyd is 2.5 miles north of thefarm, turning right at Aberhafesp church, and comprises 28.97 acres (11.72 ha) or thereabouts, and has an amount of woodland within the grassland, creating both amenity and natural capital potential, as well as use for agricultural grazing land.

The main farmhouse dates back to the17th centuryand is blessed with an abundance of original character features

including outstanding timber beams, fireplaces and exposed wattle panelling.

Internally,the propertyprovides elegant family accommodation including three large reception rooms, a comprehensive modern kitchen and dining room, three double bedrooms and acellar.The house also benefits from amodern extension, which provides furtherutility space and an annexe with separate access. The annexe has adouble bedroom, kitchenette and bathroom.

There is an oval gravelled driveway with araised shrubbed centre to the front of the house, as well as abeautifully managed garden area with auseful storage shed, extensive flowerbeds and vegetable patches. There is also asummer house.

The property also benefits from awide rangeof outbuildings, including barns, cow sheds and aworkshop.

The productive pasture land extends to 85.22acres (34.48 ha) with 1.73 acres (0.70 ha), or thereabouts,of woodland. The land at Ysgafell is located in aring fence surrounding thefarm house and buildings, dissected by arailway which serves the Shrewsbury to Mid Wales Coast line.

There are well kept fences and mature hedgerows. The land is currently all down to grass and benefits from in-field water troughs connected to awellsupply.The river stretches for almost amile along the land at Ysgafell and the property benefits from fishing rights.

Shepherds Lane, Bicton

Rodington, Nr Shrewsbury

NEW

Guide £850,000

Berwick Road,Shrewsbury

UNDEROFFER

Guide £1,300,000

Ryton,NrShrewsbury

Guide £1,100,000

Guide £1,200,000

Sitting just outside the pretty village of Rodington and surrounded by the idyllic Shropshirecountryside is the delightful Honeysuckle Cottage, boasting aseven acreplot, aone-bedroom annex, stables, six paddocks, amanege, double garage and triple carport. This five-bedroom property dates back to the early 19th Century and has been much loved, extended and improved by the current owners.

15 Berwick Road is aspecial five bedroom Period town house, set in attractive well stocked landscaped gardens, enjoying asunny south facing aspect and unrivalled views of the River Severnand yet only 10 minutes walk from the station and centreofthe town.The property is very well presented throughout and provides light and well balanced accommodation with good sized rooms on each floor.The easy flow of rooms is ideal for both comfortable daily living and larger scale entertaining. The principal rooms enjoy south facing views across the garden.

This well presented, modern, five bedroom detached property with self-contained one bedroom annex, provides spacious and well planned accommodation with delightful gardens and grounds extending to approximately 1acre including part ownership of alarge pond. The property is pleasantly situated in this popular and convenient residential area close to excellent local amenities and the nearby town centre.

Park House stands on its own near the hamlet of Wheathall and close to the sought-after village of Ryton, astunning six/seven-bedroom family home dating back to the mid1800s. The property has been in the owner’sfamily for the past forty years and covers an area of approximately over three and ahalf acres including formal gardens, outbuildings and alarge paddock. The south-facing views from the rear gardens of the Long Mynd and the South ShropshireHills arebreathtaking.

UNDER OFFER

Stanwardine, Nr Shrewsbury

UNDER OFFER

Guide £875,000

Broom Farm sits in the desirable hamlet of Stanwardine, just outside the popularvillageofBaschurch. This delightful ex-farmhouse comprises of four good sized bedrooms, two with ensuites and afamily bathroom. An open plan kitchen dining area, utility,cloakroom, formal sitting room, snug, dining/games room and ahome office. The four-bedroom property sits on an idyllic 7.36 acreplot comprisingoffor mal gardens,paddocks, an orchard, vegetable garden,a stunning natural pond, outdoor heated pool, stable block, athree-bay oak framed carport/garage and afabulous two-bedroom annexe.

Guide £1,200,000

Dudleston,Ellesmere

Guide £850,000

Guide £1,200,000

Fine

Fine &Country arepleased to introduce The Manor, Dudleston, astunning six/eight-bedroom, five reception formervicarage.The property sits on a0.75-acreplot in an elevated positiononthe edge of the hamlet, surroundedby the glorious Shropshirecountryside with views stretching to Cheshireand Wales. The current owner has lovingly restored and cared for the Manor with fabulous results. Alot of the original features have been kept mixed with abeautiful moderntwist. The property is very private, yet has neighbours closeby, so hasthe best of both worlds.

Providence Barn,Maesbrook

Providence Barnis afourbedroom, three hundred year-old barnset in the stunning Shropshirecountryside,close to the Welsh border famousfor its rolling hills and areas of outstanding natural beauty.The property sits on a2.5 acreplot, divided betweenformal gardens, paddocks and an orchard. This delightfulbarnhas character and charm in abundance with vaulted ceilings, exposed brick and beams. The outlook is idyllic and private,the property also comes with aseparate one bedroom annexe (which the current owners use as a successfulholiday let).

UNDEROFFER

Situated between the county town of Shrewsbury and the stunning smaller medieval town of Much Wenlock, is the exclusive development of Cound Park Gardens. The development sits in the restored walled garden of Cound Hall. Pelham House is aspacious six bedroom property,which the current owners have recently improved and upgraded to ahigh standardofspecification.

EMBRACING VIEWS &COUNTRY LIVING

Mary Webb and Beatrix Potter would both have relished the lifestyle Woodgate Cottage offers in the 21st century

The cottage, together with two annex cottages of one and two bedrooms, is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Hope Bowdler,threemiles from Church Stretton and 10 miles from Much Wenlock.

Today the annexes provide an established holiday cottage business, with guests enjoying access to 43 acres of homeland, including pasture, woodland and pools. Bliss in abrochure, it could work equally well for semi-independent family living.

The main accommodation is well laid out with alarge open-plan kitchen dining and living space, with glazing to two

aspects, including Frenchdoors looking out to the hills beyond. Also off the hall is the main sitting room –a wonderfully light room with an inglenook fireplace hosting awoodburning stove. The room features aweb ofbeams adding character to walls and ceiling.

On the first floor the master-room benefits from an en-suite, while two more double rooms share thefamily bathroom.

Balfours Ludlow sales manager Scott Kemsley explains: “This is indeed one of those lifestyle properties affording fabulous scenery amid the Shropshire foothills. Perfect for walking, riding and the full embrace of country living. The whole is set back off the public highway down its own drive. The Stables is a one-bedroom cottage and theOld Barn is atwo-bedroom cottage. They,like the main residence, are beautifully presented

with afreshcontemporary feel sensitively executed in old buildings.”

All properties enjoy stunning outlooks over the secondoffour pools, which are ahaven for wildlife, set down the valley and into the garden where lawns, mature shrubs and herbaceous beds frame the water.There is also akitchen garden and an orchard area. With additional pools, woods and fields, this is aproperty that keeps giving.

Ample parking is available, plus a cart-style garage and storage. At the far end of the garden is alarge stone barn with good access off the drive; this is ready to transform to aworkshop, stables, office space, or kept as storage according to needs.

Balfours are marketing Woodgate Cottage with aguide priceof£1.3million. Call 01584 707100.

HOME WITH POTENTIAL

Aperiod home in one of Shrewsbury’s most soughtafter locations is ready for some refurbishment, offering great potential to imprint personal taste.

What is not to inspire about the opportunity at 18 Porthill Road, Shrewsbury? Located a0.7-mile walk from Shrewsbury town centre, either over the footbridge through the Quarry park or over the Welsh Bridge. Its proximity to the countytown offers full amenities including an excellent choice of state and private schools.

Shrewsbury train station is less than amile away,offering adirect serviceto London, plus the roadnetworksgiving access to thenorth and Midlands, plus four international airports Number 18 offers two fine reception rooms and abreakfast diner with enormous potential. All rooms and the staircase are off the traditional entrance hall, including cloakroom and utility Three of the four bedrooms are on the first floor –accessedfrom alightfilled landing, with French doorsonto a balcony

The master bedroom benefits from en-suite facilities and built-in wardrobes. Bedroom two has glazing to two aspects with feature bay window,built-in wardrobes and shower.A third bedroom shares the family bathroom. On the second floorthe bedroom is the perfect teenage hideaway or study,featuring a fireplace with windows to either side of the chimney breast, plus fitted storage.

This attic floor also hassubstantial additional storage with potential.

On the market with Balfours and a guide price of £795,000, head of sales, Alistair Hilton comments: “Porthill is rightly revered as awonderful location to live. This period home retains much character,itis brick built with timber frame, black and white gables, generous glazing andhigh ceilings. There is a double garage and gardens to front and rear anchored by mature trees and shrubs, with great possibilities.”

Formore information call Balfours on 01743 353511.

LUXURY & CHARM

Brockton Park is an extremely impressive property, blessed with amixture of character and charm, yet boasting amodern luxury interior.The property near Shifnal is on the market with Prestige by Mannleys for offers in the region of £1,750,000 freehold.

On entering through the gates, you are greeted with an overwhelming sense of space with large gardens and asweeping driveway.Further garden space and atennis court can alsobe found hidden away at the far side of the property

The main entrance leads you into alarge and impressive front reception hallway,with beautiful, exposed timber beams, which provides access to the dining and living rooms. To one corner,the property opens up intoadelightfully light and spacious kitchen/ family room/breakfast room, with bi-fold doors out to the landscaped gardens beyond. There is also autility room, guest cloakroom and access to the cellar

To the first floor is asumptuous principal bedroom with far-reaching views, a fitted dressing room and an en suite shower room. There are two further spacious double bedrooms, both with en suite shower rooms. Afurther staircase ascends to the fourth bedroom with its own en-suiteshowerroom.

The outside space has two multi-functional buildings that could be used as ahome office, gym or bar area. There is also a gorgeous outdoor seating area perfect for entertaining.

The detached barn conversion is currently available to rent via Airbnb andhas its own parkingareaand entrance from the road and internally boasts alovely open-plan living/kitchen/ d dining space,gground floor WC,aand to the first floor are two double bedrooms and ashower room.

Set within beautifully landscaped grounds of 2.34 acres, with views over open countryside towards the south west, Brockton Park is situated just six miles to the south east of Telford and about eight miles north east of Bridgnorth

AHIDDENGEM

Samuel Wood is delighted to market this stunning architect designed prime residence, offering spacious accommodation throughout.

Gaerstone House in Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton, is on themarket with a guide price of £1,000,000.

This detached property boasts high specification fixtures and fittingstogether with abright and airy interior arranged over three levels.

Situated within the heart of the Shropshire Hills, theproperty benefits from breathtaking views with features including full-length windows and glasspanelled balconies.

The reception lobby has atiled floor and full length picture windows overlooking the front elevation, while the central hall is alovely spacious area with high vaulted ceiling and bi-fold doors. There is also aguest cloakroom/WC.

The stunning bespoke fitted kitchen is beautifully appointed with range of

cupboards and integrated appliances. The day room area is perfect for socialising with picture windows and Frenchdoors leading to the garden.

The beautiful living room hasFrench doors leading to the sun terrace and rear garden, acontemporary log-effect gas burner and exposed ceiling timbers.

From the front entrancelobby,steps descend to the utility room which has access to thegarage/workshop.

On the first floor are three bedrooms, including aguest bedroom with en-suite bathroom and amaster bedroom with en-suite shower room with adjoining dressing area.

From the first floor landing, further steps ascend to two further rooms, one of which would make adesirablebedroom with the second room off it.

Gaerstone House occupies afabulous ‘tucked away’position from Sandford Avenue, with asweepingtarmacadam driveway forming extensive hardstanding for cars and access to the garage. The front garden is laid to aslopinglawn section with pathways and an array of traditional and mature plantings and apathway leading to the home office/studio which is aself-contained area with entrance door, window,power,lighting and radiator

There is an additional lawned side garden area with interspersed apple trees and raised rockeries together with steps ascending to the formal rear garden which is laid to lawns withaseating area

4ft silver bells garland, £14.25 (was £19), Dibor Youcan almost hear theChristmas carols chiming with festive fervour with this gorgeous garland in place. Pine sprigs and disco-ball berries complete the look.

CHIC& STYLISH DECOS

THESE FABULOUS FESTIVE FINDS LOOK GOOD AND BRING SOME CHEER, SAYS SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

Some of us like to pull outall the stops thistime of year –and alittle drama goes along way when it comes to setting the scene for Christmas. Sure, we all haveour best-loved heirloom baubles and glitzy favourites to hang on the tree –not to mention foraging for faux foliage and bright berriestofestoon around the fireplace.

But if you’re short on decorations with big personality, or thinking of doubling up this year to make aSanta-sized statement, this charming collectionisworth checking out…

Star pink mirroredglass &gold metal decoration, £26.50; moon &stargold wooden bead garland large, £29.50, and mirroredglass &gold metal tree, £32.50, rest of items from aselection, Oliver Bonas Dreaming of achic Christmas? Afast and fabulous update, thesestar shaped mirrors and Christmas trees catch the light to brilliant effect, while the moon and star garland offers just the right amount of glitz.

tedfirand rosehip eath,£49.95, nabelJames

Modern rustic settings and cottagecore will love this country-style wreath for afestive refresh.

Ultimate Garland, 180cm, £85, (wreath, candle holders and tea lights from aselection), The White Company Astylishwinter garland can make astatement all season long –especially this one, with its faux leaves, eucalyptus and white berries. As well as the mantlepiece, it’d look great as a table centrepiece or around adoorway

Nordic Christmas frosted eucalyptus wreath with pine cones £15, and dinner candle holder £3, B&M stores Nordic and nice, especially at this price. Making astylish festive statement needn’t blow the budget.

ble, ? Th w lu yo fa Mi £1 Th styl and hang o chair w celebrat curtain

Stairway garland with champagne leaves 6ft,£30, and frosted pink flowerpick, £4 each, B&M stores his beautiful blush pink garland will switch up astaircasewith its uxe look and feel. Especially when ou adorn it with pink flowers and iry lights.

ni nordic star decoration, 2, The White Company his showy star deco can be led-up or down with foliage flowers. Alternatively, on the back of aspindle when you deck the table for tory get-togethers, or on a pole or door handle.

George festiveowl bauble, £4, Direct.asda

What ahoot!Weadore this little fellow and it’s blingy wing.

Luxury cinnamon pine Christmas wreath 14”, £35, Dibor

Acheerful centrepiece and scented seasonal feast –this wonderful wreath will catch everyone’s eye, with its fragrant cinnamon stick bundles, sprigs of artificial moss anddried leaves.

art decorations, Cambridge Imprint -made for traditional Scandi or Nordic style settings, these sweet decos come on a Simply pop them out them up with ribbon or yarn in a contrasting colour

George pink gin Christmas bauble £3, Direct.asda

Did somebody say gin-gle bells? Count us in…

This woven Wilton carpet in anelegant dove grey check will bring any space to life. Versatileenough to work like adream with exposed wooden beams, neutrals and Scandi inspired midcentury furniture, not to mention country living schemes and monochrome room sets

CHECK

MATE

Trendscomeand go. But if you’re after lasting appeal, it’s alwaysadvisable to stick with the classics.

Combining traditional tartan and gingham into ascheme can strike a harmonious balance –especially atthis timeofyear, as we yearn for those calm annd snug vibes. These strong g repeeat p patterns provvide v visual intereest and d can help warm a room with colourand texture.

Here’s howto softenthe edgesand introduce some checked contrast as the nigghts draw in…

Merino lambswool navy tartan plaid throw,£89.95, Annabel James

If you’re after astylishmerino lambswool throw to snuggle up with, while dipping your toe in the world of tartan, you can’t go wrong with the coordinating tones in this one.

Madras gold check throw,£60,check cushions, £55, Weaver Green

If you’re coveting throws and cushions right now,you’re not alone. Comforting and cheerful, we love the yellows, blues and soft pinks in this timeless design. Ideal for styling on rustic furniture, flea market finds, as well as asofa.

Gleneagles pattern carpet in Kinross grey plaid, £44.99 per squaremetre, Carpetright

Carnoustie check grey blackout lined eyelet curtains, from £40, Julian Charles Winter warmth within easy reach, these dapper check curtains are fully lined, featuring easy to hang eyelets. Best of all, they’ll reduce draughts from windows and prevent the heat from escaping. What’s not to love?

Ellie check accent chair with plain bolster cushion in plum combination, £479, DFS

With its soft curvesand sumptuous padding, this vintage-inspired accent chair certainly looksthe part, especially if you’ve got your heart set on creatingacomfortable seating area to sink into at the end of along day.Available with a choice of oak and antique feet and 12 colour ways.

Heritage tartan wallpaper in Egyptian blue and mineral, £46 per roll, Lucie Annabel Classic plaid prints canplayupthe dullest of corners, and spur the imagination with thoughts of aglowing fireplace, glass of claret and chic drinks trolley.This tartan wallpaper in Egyptian blue will give any room afresh face andadd atouch of drama.

Berry gingham linen bedtime bundle, from £297, Piglet In Bed Apalate of berry-red gingham checks always feels right this time of year –and areal winner styled with burgundy blankets, vases of dried pampas grasses, quirky decos and curios. This set’s made from stonewashed European flax, prewashed for soft bedtime bliss.

Balmoral check cushion covers, £6 each, Studio

Fora quickiefabric fix, take an existing cushion pad and swap out the cover for one of these game-changing designs, available in all your favourite shades.

Mustardhouse

pink weaveset of 4 placemats, £32, and set of 4coasters, £16, MADE.com

Fora lovely twist on table settings, who says checks can’t be contemporary?

Tartan faux fur storage basket, £9, Matalan

Since when did storage look socushy? Aperfect prop to clear the clutter,think magazines, home crafts,orevenyour favourite warming, wintry tipple.

Gingham check stonewarevase, £14, Five And Dime Romantic and quaint, we’re definitely sensing anod to cottagecore when you fill this charmingvase with dried flowers.

CREATEA VERTICAL ALLOTMENT

Short of space but want to grow your own edibles? The answer may be to grow your own vertical allotment filled with salad leaves, herbs and tumbling tomatoes and strawberries.

Planting your fruits, herbs and vegetables strategically can give you a year-round harvest, without having to join the waiting list for your local community allotment.

Keep it simple “Create tiered shelving, in which case the easiest things to grow aremicrogreens and pea shoots and rocket,” says Mark Ridsdill Smith, author of The VerticalVeg Guide To Container Gardening (Chelsea Green). “All the salads, plus herbs, would grow on shelves or on the rungs of an old ladder That could be very productiveinasmall space.

“Microgreens need to go in atray atleast an inch deep with holes in the bottom. Youcan use mushroom trays with holes in them, lined with newspaper, for growing microgreens.”

Tryin-built watering systems

If watering is too time consuming, an in-built watering system within your container may be the answer,says Matt Lindsay (right), general manager at green infrastructure specialists Growing Revolution (growingrevolution.com).

“PlantBox, for example, has an inbuilt watering system making it effortless to keep your plants happy and healthy and can be fixed to an external wall, balcony, or even indoors. It’s ideal for growing strawberries, lemon balm, mint, thyme, basil and sage and many more herbs,fruits and vegetables.”

Youcan buy planting troughs with water reservoirs which once filled can last acouple of weeks depending on location, weather and how thirsty theplants are. Incorporated wicking felt means that plants take up water astheyneedit, so you don’t need to worry about over watering either

Create asalad bar

“I’d raise alarge trough –say 30cm deep and half ametre wide –uponbricks to create asalad bar,” says Chris Collins (left), head of horticulture at Garden Organic (gardenorganic. org.uk).

“It needs to be southfacing or east-facing. Sow in drills very quick crops such as microgreens, rocket or pea shoots, so you have afast turnaround. Then put an obelisk in the centre of the trough and grow dwarf runner beans up that.”

Make use of the wall space behind the trough by putting some hanging basket brackets above it and planting trailing tomatoes or strawberries in the baskets, he suggests.

Re-use plant pots

Use existing plant pots to grow your favourite fruitsand vegetables to save space and money on your vertical allotment, Lindsay says. “There aremany vegetable varieties that can grow well in containers,including beetroot, herbs, runner beans and salad leaves.”

Make sure your pots are deep enough for your chosen plant and make anote of the specificcare needed for each variety to give them the best possible chance of thriving, Lindsay suggests.

Ridsdill Smith adds: “If you want to grow larger salads, use bucket-sized, larger containers. The more soil you grow them in, theeasier they are to look after People do grow lettuces in guttering but it won’t hold much soil so plants will need alot of watering because they will dry out quickly.”

Use climbers

Climbing Frenchbeans and runner beans are ideal for growing in avertical space, either in apot up abamboo wigwam or in theground secured with ties against afence or trellis, says Ridsdill Smith. Other tall plants such as vine tomatoes with one main stem can be secured to awall with string, if you screw small eyes into thewall above an old nail.

“Squash grow on avine so don’t take up as much vertical space. ‘Tromboncino’ squash is agood one because it tastes quite like courgettes. Youcan eat the fruits small or let them grow to ametre long,” he says.

Makethe most of windowsills

Many herbs flourish when positioned on the windowsill. All you need is aspot that receives agood amount of sunlight, and you’ll be able to cultivate your own windowsill veg plot, says Lindsay Have agowith herbs such as basil, thyme or oregano.

Keep your vertical allotment going all year

Make the most of your vertical allotment all season by growing other leaves such as spinach, microgreens and salads, Ridsdill Smith advises.

“The key to having salad in winter is that most of them need sowing around September,toenable crops like rocket, winter purslane, lamb’s lettuce and mustards to last throughthe winter.They grow slowly in winter,but will put on a burst of growth come spring.”

Chard and kale will also grow in winter,preferably in bucket-sized containers, andideally need to be sown earlier in the summer for harvesting in winter,headds.

Mark Ridsdill Smith making the most of vertical space for growingpotsofedibles.

Whywelove.

..

CLEOBURY MORTIMER

ANDY RICHARDSON CONTINUES HIS SERIES BY EXPLORING THE SMALL TOWN AND ITS SURROUNDING ATTRACTIONS

It’s often overlooked. Cleobury Mortimer,the small-but-perfectly formed market town in South Shropshire, doesn’t have the lure of Ludlow.It’s not got the same historic appeal, nor magnificent architecture. Nor, indeed, does it have the hustle and bustle of atown like Bridgnorth.

There’s not the winding river,the cluster of independent shops, nor the strong connection with bigger towns and cities not far off

YetCleobury Mortimer is one of the Shropshire towns that’s worthy of greater investigation. Located perfectly between the big city –Birmingham and the small rural idyll –Ludlow –itis delightful and delicious. Surrounded by majestic countryside, astone’s throw from Clee Hill with magnificent, sweeping

views across mile upon mile of farmland, Cleobury combines history and vibrant countryside, astrong sense of identity with acan-do communityspirit.

While itshistory isn’t as close to the surface as that in atown like Ludlow,or Shrewsbury,itexists, nonetheless.

The town was granted amarket charter by Henry III in 1226 andhas thrived ever since.

Its name appearstohave been inspired by its topography,with ‘clifu’, meaning a steep place, being adapted to Cleobury Mortimer comes from Ranulph de Mortimer of Normandy to whom the land was granted after the Norman conquest.

He founded the Mortimer dynasty of Marcher Lords who held power in the Welsh Marches throughout the Middle

Ages and were closely involved with power struggles with successive English monarchs and other powerful Lords. Cleobury has asignificant entry in the Domesday Book, and the vicinity was the location of at leasttwo castles.

Cleobury Castle was situated near St Mary’s Church, was destroyed in 1155 and only earthworks remain today

The town developed industry through the years, though was bedevilled by poor transport links, with no rivers,canalsor long-lasting railway connections, given the challenging terrain and aheight of between 110m and 150m above sea level. Yetthe town remained popular, particularly with writers.

Twoliterary figures have strong connections with Cleobury: William Langland and Simon Evans.

Langland, acontemporary of Geoffrey Chaucer,is believed to have been born in the vicinity in the 14th century, and is commemorated in the very fine and intricate (Victorian) East Window of St Mary’s Church, as well as in alocal road name.

Simon Evans is a20th-century writer, who fought throughout the First World War, and suffered from being gassed. He had been apostman on Merseyside before the war,and after the war sought arural postal round, to soothe both nerves and body

Cleobury suited him well; there he blossomed, took acorrespondence course in English, andbecame asuccessful writer and radio broadcaster in the 1930s. Heath Cranton published five of his books, and he married ‘Auntie Doris’ (Aldridge), a radio performer,but his new life was cut short in 1940, when the effects of the gassing finally caught up with him.

His legacy is visible in the naming of alocal street, aplaque on the old Post Office, and adedicated local walk –The Simon Evans Way–which the CM Footpath Association hascreated in recent years.

The town is tucked between the Clee Hills (Titterstone Clee and Brown Clee Hill) and the Wyre Forest, surrounded by panoramic views and wonderful walks in Cleobury Country.Itcan be accessed directly from Ludlow town centre via the long distance footpath, the Mortimer Trail or the Severn Wayextension all the way to Bewdley

Cleobury’s St. Mary’s Church has acrookedspire and walls that lean at an alarming angle and the main street

William Langland of Cleobury Mortimer is commemorated in the East WindowofSt Mary’sChurch.

Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club

Below: The plaque outside the old Cleobury Mortimer Post Office honouring Simon Evans, who was gassed during the First World War, so to aidhis recovery, he accepted ajob as arural postman in Cleobury Mortimer

Photo:DrPaulMinton

Right: Simon outside the post office.

Photo:EdwinaGuest

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PAGE 43 FROM TOP:

curves gently down to the River Rea. The interior is not for those of nervous disposition with Betjemen observing: “The whole church seems to have slipped out of shape. Inside there isn’t astraight arch or doorway.”

The church guide explains: “A prominent feature is the leaning of the walls and pillars, probably resulting from acombination of abadly tied roof at one period and ground movement” but local hero Thomas Telford, one of England’s most famous engineers, stabilised the building in 1790.

Cleobury Mortimer’s High Street was once described by English poet Sir John Betjeman as “A long airy curving street of brick Georgian houses and shops interspersed with genuine halftimber,the Rea Brook making asplash at the bottom of the hill.”

There are many pubs in Cleobury Mortimer; including those that serve Cleobury’s own beer from the Hobson’s Brewery,one of Shropshire’s best real ales. There are also real butchers and bakers,

a florist and traditional ironmongers and awell-stockedgreengrocer.Look out for thecakes and the Shropshire brown loaves, from the ‘highest bakery in Shropshire’ at the topofClee Hill (the highest bakery in Shropshire and probably the UK too.)

There are many ways to enjoy astay in the town. Cleobury Mortimer Footpath Association,Stotty Strollers and Kinlet Countryside Group lead guided walks throughout theyear and there are self guided walks available too.

Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club is on your doorstep and The West Midlands Safari Park and the Severn Valley Railway are also easily accessible.

Yetitisthe landscape that stands out most of all. Beyond the town the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre guides your discovery of its area and the Clee Hills provide endless possibilities for independent exploration.

Walk to the summit of Brown Clee, look due east and there is nothing higher until you reach the Urals.

Atown with astrong connection with its farming community, the Cleobury Mortimer Farmers Market is held on the third Saturday of every month. The market brings together awide variety of local produce for consumers to enjoy. You can meet the farmers who have raised the animals and are responsible for the production of delicious vegetables and organic food. The market also features local retailers showcasing their products.

TOP: The view from Clee Hill; abandoned buildings related to past quarry activity on Clee Hill; Hobsons Brewery serves many of the pubs in Cleobury Mortimer

Cleobury Mortimer High Street; St Mary The Virgin Church.

Aunique piece of entertainment history is now available to own from anotable photograph library in Shrewsbury

Archive Shrewsbury is now selling photographs from the analogue archives of former media photograph agency, London Features International Ltd.

Established in 1969 and once aserious contender in the celebrity photo arena, LFI was alarge scale agency with bases in New York and London. Its analogue archives, held by aprivate collector since 2015, feature over 250,000 historic images of some of the most iconic musicians, bands and celebrities of all time.

Archive Shrewsbury, has secured aunique opportunity for individuals to acquire photographs from the originalarchivesofthis former behemoth of the entertainment industry

Each black and white photograph comes from the analoguearchives of the now defunct agency, some never before seen, all with the original annotations from the company’s files.

This is an exciting opportunity to own an original photograph from apre-digital age. Staff are so excited that the private collector has made these photographs available for sale… The unique and exciting thing about these imagesis that it really is like holding apiece of history.These photographs form the analogue library of amedia agency that would have been one of the only sources of celebrity images of the time. Now,with the advent of the mobile phone, adigital image can be sent around the world instantly,sothere’s something nostalgic, romantic even,

about aphotograph that would have been captured and disseminated in avery different way… and of your favourite artist or musician of the day

That tangible thrill fholding an original photograph from the archives of abygone era, thatis what Archive Images/ The Archive/ Archive is all about. Formusic fans, nostalgia buffs or those looking for an eclectic gift for aloved one, there is achance to own atruly specialphotograph.

The library would have formed the basis of all available media images of the biggest stars of thetime, but not all photographs would have been used, leaving some unique images unseen in the archives.

There are in excess of 20,000 photographs from artists as diverse as George Michael to Meatloaf,Fleetwood Mac to The Beatles, Dudley Moore to Sir John Gielgud.

Opening times in store areTuesday to Saturday,10am –3pm. Tel: 07827 316001.

BRINGING ARTTO LIFE

Artist Charlie Adlard is internationally-acclaimed for his work on his post apocalyptic comic books, which were turned into asmash-hit television series. But he’s keen to showcase adifferent side to his artistic talents and aspecially curated exhibition at The Hive is the fitting place to do so.

It was, after all, life drawing classes at The Hive, in Shrewsbury,which gave him aplatform to use adifferent set of tools and follow an alternativeprocess.

The result is aselection of figurative sketches created on both physical paper and digitally,using an iPad.

He’s already produced abook –LIFE –based on his work but now comes the long-awaited, muchanticipated exhibition. And Charlie can’t wait.

“I’m very excited about it,” he says. “People know me from comics and zombies but they don’t get to see how I apply my artistry to drawing from life, as well as the different techniques and new ways Iuse to express myself.It’s separate to my drawing of comic books.”

This particular set of work was –like Charlie –born and bred in Shrewsbury

“About six years ago, myself and a local cartoonist friend, Dan Berry,thought it would be good to go to an art session at The Hive and we were there regularly,” Charlie recalls.

“I always felt, doing live drawing there, it didn’t feel like extra work because it was adifferent process to what Iwould normally do, with different equipment.

“I found it areal change and, though acliché,they do say achange is as good as arest. Deep down, Ithought whiledoing the art ‘I can getabook out of this’and that kept themomentum going for me as the years went on.

“In 2020, we talked about an exhibition but the pandemic got in the way and Ihad to cancel it but Ipublished the book anyway

“And, post lockdowns, Ire-established contactwith The Hive and here we are.”

As aShropshire lad, it means alot to stageanexhibitioninthe county,Charlie says. “It is special to me,” he adds. “I am apatron of The Hive and so really do see the importance of such aplace in any local community

“That’s why Iwhole heartedly support it and proceeds from the art will be donated back into The Hive.”

Though clearly excited to show off adifferent side to his talent, there’s no getting away from the fact Charlie is a comic book genius. ChattingonZoom, from his homestudio, you get aglimpse of spaceships and various models from the world of comic books andsci-fi adorning cabinets behind him.

“I have been into comic books since I

was about six or seven,” he recalls. “One of my earliest memories was of my dad buying me the Mighty World of Marvel. That was areally early memory and I drew comics from that moment on. From eight-10, in my head, that’s what Iwanted to be. Iwasn’t going to be wavered.”

He was clearly determined, something he says is vital for any young person looking to make their way in the industry

It was in 2003 he started working on The Walking Dead, which finished in 2019.

He has received araft of industry awards for his work on the series culminating in winning the Sergio Aragonés International Award for Excellence in Comic Art in 2019.

Other projects have included Mars Attacks, the X-Files, Judge Dredd, Savage, Batman, X-Men and Superman.

The story,hesays, of howThe Walking Dead came to life was nothing groundbreaking but did come through networking, again highlighting that determination.

“I’d been ajobbing journeyman comic book creator for tenorso years,” he recalls. “Robert Kirkman, the writer of The Walking Dead, was someone I’d known previously

“I met him in SanDiego while networking so we were aware of each other’s existence.

HE MIGHT BE BEST KNOWN FOR THE WALKING DEAD BUT IT’S ALL ABOUT CELEBRATING LIFE FOR SHREWSBURY ARTIST CHARLIE ADLARD RIGHT NOW, SAYS MATTHEW PANTER

“One day, I simply got an email from him out of the blue saying: ‘Would you be intterested in drawing for me?’

“HHeccaught me in between jobs. He sent me the scrript and Iliked it, especially the fact it was a character piece and not just a generic zombie action one.

“He wanted it to last morethan twothree issues and, to cut along story short, I started drawing it and 16 years later we were finishing it off.

“I’d always wanted to do along-form comic.I’d done shorter things before mini series –and, as an artist, you’d just get into the series and it would end.

“It was great to have the opportunity to do this and then for us to finish it in our own way

“Wewent out on ahigh with it still selling in the bucket-loads. I was unbelievably lucky to have the opportunity.”

It became, in Charlie’s words ‘a true phenomena’.

“I think you are always abit surprised by the success of what you are involved in,” he says. “The Walking Dead isn’t that classic high concept Hollywood thing that you describe in acouple of words, it’s more complex than that.

“If you describe it in afew words, it probably sounds an unoriginal project, but fortunately people saw the potential in it and Itake my hat off to them.”

That Charlie had such incredible

success with thestory of Rick Grimes and co is something that, he hopes, will inspire young artists in Shropshire.

But, while talent is key,heinsists anyone with aburning ambition to enjoy success in the art industry musthave commitment and true passion.

“Hopefully,this new exhibition and my previous work will give inspiration to young artists out there.

“One of the things Ihope LIFE will show is that just because you are known for one thing, it doesn’t mean you can’t change and do something else,” he says.

But what advice does he give to those wanting to make their mark?

“There were no comic courses when Iwas younger,soI went and studied film and video for three years,” he recalls. “I then had abrief sojourn in London, being in arock band. We didn’t make it for various reasons.

“I casually got into thecomic book lark, living back home with my mum and dad, and getting my portfolio together Ieventually found work by being persistent. Iwent to comic shows.

“There was no direct routeinto drawing. Youcan’t justjoin astudio. It’s not like graphic design or something where you can apply for something and be an employee.

“It was just acase of keeping going and that is my advice really

“You have take it seriously and things won’t just come to you and land in your lap. Youhave to work at these things. You have to have passion for it and if you are not doing it every day for fun, I’d question your commitment to it.

“I would have drawn, regardless,even if Ihadn’t got paid for it but Imanaged to break in, within two years of deciding to do it, and thankfully Ihaven’t looked back since. Ialwayssay,follow your dreams. If you really want to do something, please, just go for it.

“Obviously you have got to be good at what you do but you must have that persistence and passion, plus you need that element of luck, being in the right place at the right time, while putting the hard work in.”

Hard graft is something Charlie is not afraid of.The Walking Dead may be over but he has projectsonthe go andhas had the small matter of building ahouse too.

“Webuilt the house and have been in it for ayear and ahalf now.It’s on the river in Shrewsbury,and it’s lovely.It’s been great fun –you put everything into it. We just found some land and my wife and Ialways wanted to build ahouse as we are big fans of modernity

“I’m abig collector of original art too

Some of Charlie’s work being exhibited from the book Life

Shrewsbury-based Cartoonist Charlie Adlardgiving atalk at Meole Brace School in Shrewsbury

so when we built this house, we purposely had lots of nice, big, white blank walls where we could hang hundreds of pictures.

“That’s what Ilike to look at. It’s a massive draw of inspiration and Iquite often walk through various rooms of the house and suddenly stare at apiece of art for five minutes because otherwise what’s the point of having it on the wall?

“It also gavemea great opportunity to build my dream studio and have it all exactly as Iwant it. Ispend six or seven hours aday there so if you are not comfortable in your working environment, your work isn’t going to be as good.”

And he’s certainly busy in that studio. House building and his LIFE exhibition and book aside, Charlie has plenty more on the go.

“People might have been wondering what happened to me since The Walking Dead,” he says. “It’s been nearly three years since we finished the book.

“But Ihavebeen working on Damn T Them All by Simon Spurrier

“It’s published by an Americancomic b book company called Boom! Studios.

“It’s ahorror book but amini series. I won’t do along one again, the Walking D Dead scratched that itch. This is asixissue series and it’s sold well.

“Wemay do another six issues atsome time, as an ongoing project, but notall the time. We can take as short or aslong a break as we want in between.

“I’m also doing aFrench comic book based on Altamont, adisastrous gig featuring the Rolling Stones in 1969 9

“It’s apassion project from an i idea of mine, which has been taken on and run with brilliantly.Iwanted to do a story about amother whose kids go o to the gig, with all the 60s ideals in theiir hearts, and emerge very different.

“I am really excited abbout it I am a big fan of 60s illustrativeart t

“It’s aperiod Ienjoy visually so enjoyed doing the ressearch and drawing as accurately as posssible, while also giving atweak to add my own touches into the imagery as well.”

And his woork is being done from the beautiful surrroundings of Shropshire and Charlie wouldn’t have it any other way

“I have never had a desire to move anywhere e else really,” he says “I enjoy being whhere I am and Shrewsbury is a fantasttic place to live it’s relaxing and everyrything I like in a place ”

n Charlie’s exhibition LIFE can be viewwed at The Hive, Shrewsbury, until December r 9

Charlie Adlard at Comic Salopia Festival 2022 across Shrewsbury

CARDS FULL OF HEART

This year,a well-loved charitable enterprise has celebrated atremendous 55 years of supporting good causes during the festive season.

Set up in the town’s St Mary’s Church, the Shrewsbury Charity Christmas Card Shop opened its doors for this year in October,and has spent aseven-week run retailing cards and calendars on behalf of 34 charities –amix of local and nationalcauses.

Though it has been beloved by the town for decades, this is the first time the card shop has been open for such along stint, and organisers have been pleased at the public’s support despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

“Because of the state of play in the UK at the moment, we expected things to be

slower,and they have been,” said secretary Christine Sower.“But we’ve encouraged the charities involved to publicisethe shop on social media as much as they can, and takings have been quite good. Alot of people are still coming in.”

Charities supported by the card shop have included abreadthofwell-known good causes based right here in the county,including Severn Hospice, Hope House Children’s Hospices, The League of Friends of The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, and Lingen DaviesCancer Fund. Over the last two years, cards from the NationalTrust have also been available to purchase.

“Wesupport the bigger charities like RNLI and the Air Ambulance by selling their cards,” said Christine. “But then we alsolove to help the smaller charities like the Shropshire Deaf Children’s Society The little charities may not sell as many cards, but they like to have aprofile and it’s great to be able to help people get to know about them.”

Christine herself has been involved in the running of the card shop for quite some time. “Well, I’ve not been here for 55 years,” she laughs. “But Ihavebeen on the committee for about 11 –I’m its longest serving member.Whenit firstgot started Ibelieve it was just a group of ladies who decided, ‘well this is something we can do’, and fora long time the venue each year used to change. It never used to have apermanent base like we’ve got now.It’s been at St Mary’s since before my time though, and now people know that we’re there each year.We have customers who come from far and wide –from places like Aberystwyth and Birmingham –not justShropshire.”

Christine and the rest of the organisers nobly attempt to run the card shop each year on averytight budget, though this year sponsorship was gratefully received from Shrewsbury businesses Morris &Coand Hatfields Jaguar Land Rover.“They each donated £500 to help us which was wonderful,” said Christine. “£1,000 towards our admin costs, insurance and the rent of the church was really appreciated.”

The card shop’sworkforce is comprised entirely of unpaid volunteers –the five committee members including Christine and chairman Peter Long, plus volunteers supplied by the represented charities. “For each day in the shop, we have amorning session and an afternoon session, each staffedbyfour volunteers and asupervisor,” said Christine. “It really is alot of fun, and there’s such agood atmosphere between everyone.

“Whenever Ihear people say they’re

lonely,Isay,‘whydon’t you do some charitable work?’. We have some lovely people down at the card shop. It’s avery friendly family.”

Though Christine suspects there is no record of the card shop’s total takings over the last 55 years, its annual figures in recent times have been impressive. “Before Covid hit we were getting up to between £50,000-£60,000 each year across the six weeks we were open,” Christine

said. The pandemic naturally had an impact, andthe cost-of-living crisis may have limited the public’s purchasing power,but Christine and her committee colleagues are proud to be doing what they’re doing, and have no intention of calling time on the card shop nextyear or any time soon.

“We’re still here,” she said. “So many things are disappearing from Shrewsbury, and from the world, but we aren’t planning to go anywhere.”

Here’s to another 55 years.

n Forinformation on volunteeringat the Shrewsbury Charity ChristmasCard Shop in 2023, email Christine at yes@ englishinshropshire.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOPLEFT: Peter Long, chairman of the Shrewsbury Charity Christmas CardShop; looking after the Alzheimers Research UK cards is Diana Chadwick from Ellesmere; Sally Johnson from The Harry Johnson Trust; some of the charities supported this year; Glyn Shaw,right, from Snailbeach who has been buying the cards around 10 years running; Dianne Wood from Newcastle under Lyme.

PAGE 51,CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Afternoon supervisor Roger Briers with cards that featurescenes from the St Mary’sChruchwindows; cards depicting local scenes including Ironbridge; cards representing Haycop NatureReserve, Broseley; Cuan Wildlife Rescue cards.

Some of the charities supported this year

SHINING ALIGHT ON LUDLOW STREET

Much has been written about Ludlow’s royal connections and its wellknown medieval, Tudor and Georgian buildings.

But its northern, industrial quarter has never been as well documented –until now

Previously untold stories about the people who lived and worked in this part of town as well as its buildings have been revealed in anew book.

It has been written by Jonathan and Rosemary Wood, who moved into The Merchant House in Lower Corve Street in 2006.

This 15th century half-timbered house with the river Corve running behind it has been owned by wealthy dyers, tanners and glovers.

And more recently it became worldfamous as the home of aMichelin-starred restaurant owned by master chef,Shaun Hill.

When Jonathan and Rosemary moved into The Merchant House, Jonathan, a

motoring historian, journalist and author, began researching its history

Work intervened, and the former chairman of Ludlow Historical Research Group put the project on hold until his retirement would allow him the time to finish it.

Sadly in 2019 Jonathan suffered a stroke, which meant he could no longer write or carry out any research, sothe batonwas passed to Rosemary

To ensure the work he had done prior to his stroke didn’t go to waste, the couple then agreed the book should be completed and that Rosemary would undertake the outstanding work.

“Jonathan has always been interested in local history and has given anumber of lectures and Powerpoint presentations on local history,” she says. “When we moved into The Merchant House, he began researching it in depth. He had to put it to one side and the idea was that when he retired he would pick it up again.”

“He had spent alot of time researching and writing 30,000 words

on the history of Merchant’s House so it seemed agreat shame if it didn’t happen.

“I began working on it but I’mnot ahistorian. While Iwas reading it and learning about, it became so apparent that it should contain information on the other houses in Lower Corve Street and St Mary’s Lane,” explains Rosemary, who has been involved in anumber of different community groups in Ludlow.

Until the 20th century,Corve Street was one entity,though amajor section lay beyond the Corve Gate.

Only with the creationofCoronation Avenue did ‘Lower’Corve Street come into being. Centuries ago, this riverside location provided the Knights Hospitaller with rents from burgage plots owned by Hugh de Lacy,the Lord of Ludlow

Wealthy dyers and tanners lived and worked by the Corve, and traded with Flanders and Florence. In the18th century, rich glovers erected low-status back buildings for their impoverished workers in what became anoxious tanning zone.

HEATHER LARGE MEETS ACOUPLE WHOSE RESEARCH INTOALESSER KNOWN PART OF LUDLOW HASLED THEM TO WRITEAFASCINATING BOOK ON ITS HISTORY

Jonathan and Rosemary outside The Merchant House.

They then moved up the hill into town to build or renovate grandhouses reflecting their new social status. Speculators amassed fortunes or went bankrupt.

Maltsters and brewers plied their trade, social distinctions were blurred. Land was exchanged and murder was committed. Animals were auctioned, carriers and hauliers flourished, and Corve Street had its own ‘red light district’.

“In Mill Street and Broad Street, with their beautiful buildings and wealthy people, alot of people gained their wealth because of the castle which ruled Wales.

“It’s abit like having Westminster and everything to do with Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson happening at the top end of town and all the wheels of industry happening atthe other end,” says Rosemary

When she began researching the other houses in Lower Corve Street, she trawled through local history books looking for any references to the road or one of its residents.

Asource of information that proved invaluable was aPHD thesis written by late Ludlow historian, David Lloyd MBE.

The manuscript, which was titled ‘property,ownership and improvement in Ludlow,a fashionable county town, 1660 -1848’, was submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the University of Wolverhampton in 2005

It had be compiled with the help of documents such as churchwarden notes, property deeds, wills and parish minutes.

In the early 1900s this yard, Drew’sCourt behind No.119 CorveStreet, nowthe site of Tesco, was typical of the squalor and overcrowding of many of the street’sdwellings. The wooden boxes on the wall arepigeoncoops.

Photo:GarethThomas

“Every time David mentioned a property,person or occupation to do with Lower Corve Street, Iwrote it down. It was quite different as often it only said Corve Street, which might have been the higher end of town, so it took awhile to make sure we were dealing with the right area,” explains Rosemary.

As part of her investigation, she also took aclose look at herneighbours’ handwritten house deeds which provided valuable information.

“We’ve found lots of things that had never been recorded because they were in people’s deeds and tiny little phrases that mean nothing now.AtNo. 98, they were allowed access with awheelbarrow –that was important enough to put in adeed.

“Byreading the names on the deeds, Iwas able to join up some of thedots,” recalls Rosemary,who was instrumental in the establishment of theFriends of the Corve and Teme.

Her research also uncovered details of amurdercommitted in one of the houses and the sad circumstances surrounding it.

“The lady,wewould say now that she had postnatal depression, had lots of children. The lady cut her throat and two of her children’s throats,one of the

children died,” explains Rosemary Continuing theproject, startedby her husband, has been a“fascinating” experience, although she admits it has involved “a lot of hours andworking to 3am”.

“With abook like this you are never finished,” says Rosemary.“Even now, when the book is at the printer,I’ve found

little bits and joined up another dot and I think ‘that should have been in the book’.

“In this tiny area, that it would take three minutes at themost to walk from end to the other,somuchashappened over the centuries.

“When you look at the individual houses, they are stunning. The book is well-illustrated with lots of colour.I wanted Corve Street to shine, Iwanted people to see the beauty of the houses.”

n The People and History of Lower Corve Street and St Mary’s Lane, Ludlow is an A4 hardback, costing £20. Copies will be available from Castle Bookshop, 5 Castle Street, Ludlow Or people can order their copy and collect it later from The Merchant House, Lower Corve Street, SY8 1DU. Contact Rosemary Wood on 01584 875438 or email rosemary.wood3@ gmail.com

In 1881, WilliamPipe, ageneral haulier,was living in No. 82 CorveStreet. The Pipe family also owned land and afarm in St Mary’sLane. This photo, probably from the mid-1940s, shows Allan Pipe, (front right) driving his milk cart in St Mary’sLane. Photo:JoanPipe

Attributed to WilliamWardGill (1823-1894) St Laurence’s Church seen from CorveBridge; the buildings on the left were the tanneries. PaintingcourtesyofJanetGough

The Merchant House.

Thomas and Mary Lowe (seated) were landlords of the Queen’s Arms at 77 CorveStreet, nowThe Bridge Inn. Their son, William, (centre) was a Territorial, aged 21 in 1914 and working as aclerk on agentleman’s estate whenhewas called up to join The King’sShropshire Light Infantry. Photo: GarethThomas

MICHAEL BALL: STAGE FRIGHT

THE MUSICAL THEATRE STAR, TV AND RADIO PRESENTER BRINGS HIS OWN THEATRE EXPERIENCEINTOHIS DEBUT NOVEL

Musical theatre star Michael Ball is recalling when he took to the stage in Les Miserables in the West End and literally froze

He had been performing the role of Marius Pontmercy for months, when crippling stage fright caused him to walk out of the production

“The first couple of times, it came from nowhere You’re doing what you know, and then something happens in your head It’s almost like another voice going, ‘You don’t know the next line, you don’t know what’s going on ’ , ” he explains

“You have a physical reaction Your heart starts pounding, you start getting tunnel vision, sweating, you can’t breathe. Your mind goes into apanic and it’s fight or flight.”

Today,the award-winning singer and broadcaster –famed for roles in Hairspray,Sweeney Todd and The Phantom Of The Opera, as well as hit solo albums and collaborations with singing and touring partner AlfieBoe, plus his Sunday morning BBCRadio 2show –seems warm andconfident, exclamations peppering his genial conversation, laughing loudly,

talking relatably and entertainingly

Yet he vividly recalls drying up on stage during that dark time “I was singing Empty Chairs At Empty Tables, which I’ve sung a hundred times, and I couldn’t remember it I don’t know how I got to the end of the show I just thought, I can’t face feeling like this again ”

Those stage fright feelings began to happen when he was on his way to the theatre

“It’s only because [theatre producer] Cameron Mackintosh had faith in me and after a period of time said, ‘You need to get back on the horse, or you’ll never know’ and I did and I managed to control the anxiety and the panics ”

Finally, his agent persuaded him to take on ajob singing one song on live TV on Miss England, while the votes were being counted.

“It was awful but Igot through it and it put it all into perspective. It also coincided with Cameron turning up and saying, ‘We’re recasting after the firstyear of The Phantom Of The Opera –you need to see if you can do this’. And Igot on top of it.”

This all happened in the 1980s, but Ball has explored the subject in his debut novel, The Empire, set in the 1920s about the on and off-stage dramas among acast of characters, whose world revolves around the eponymous fictional theatre in the north of England. There’s the glamour and the greasepaint as well as treachery and rivalry,inanindustry Ball has made his career

To deal with his own panic attacks, Ball learned to breathe properly,toride the wave of stage fright, to distract his mind. “It still happens now when I’m stressed or very tired or not on top of my game.”

Despite the triggers of overworking, his schedule seems massive –there are stageprojects, albums, broadcasting, more tours. He agrees he finds it difficult to turn down work.

“Every actor or performer,when they do their last show,says, ‘Will anyone ever employ me again?’ You’re always worried about the next gig. And Ilovea challenge.

It doesn’t feel like work. Ilove the Radio 2show.Ifeel like I’m connecting with mates, I’m having achat and I’m playing nice music. Idon’t find that apressure. And Ihave agood home balance,” he reasons.

He lives in London with his partner of 30 years, journalist and broadcaster Cathy McGowan.

“She’s my rock,” he says earnestly “She’s been there for all the ups and downs. We have awonderful family and are private about it.

“She’s not remotely interested in fame. She’s immensely proud of what I do and is great at giving advice, she has no ambition herself,only for me.

“Wehave areal life. Idothe shopping and the cooking.

“If you’ve got people in your life who are intuitive, sensitive and understand what makes you tick, and whoyou are able to talk to, that’s what Ineed. Cath sees the warning signsinme.”

He’s immensely proud of his family (he is stepfather to Cathy’sdaughter, Emma, godfather to Emma’sson and step-grandfather to her daughter), and says he finds it easy to switchoff after work, enveloping himself in family life.

He turned 60 in June, which he says “sort of sucks”.

Ball adds: “When Igot my Freedom Pass, Iwent, what? And prescriptions are free now –and my God do we need more prescriptions! Everything hurts!”

He has aknackof being able to make things happen –like the book. “I had plot ideas, Iknew what Iwanted to write and, like so much in my career,you make the

right phone calls and then just knuckle down and see if anything comes of it.”

He says the pandemic enabled him to expand creatively,writing songs and an album, Together In Vegas, with Alfie Boe, whom he hopes to tour with again in 2024. He’ll be back in the West End next year (though he won’t reveal what for) and has asecond novel to write to fulfil his two-book deal.

He and Boe remain firm friends outside of work. “We’re not Ant and Dec,” Ball says wryly.“We are very different in so many ways, but we justget each other.”

Unlike his singing pal, however,he wouldn’t appear on reality shows like Freeze The Fear With WimHof,hesays with alaugh. “I love reality shows and there have been approaches made, but I’m too competitive and it’s not for me.”

In any case, it doesn’t seem he’d have time for reality TV in his jam-packed schedule.

“I’ve never just sat around and waited for something to happen,” Ball observes.

n The Empire by Michael Ball is published by Zaffre, priced £20. Michael Ball and Alfie Boe released their new album Together In Vegas in October on Decca.

Michael Ball in Hairspray.

Michael Ball and Alfie Boe.

ON WITH THESHOW

ANDY RICHARDSON CHATS WITHTHE PROMOTERS OF AFESTIVAL PLANNED AT LUDLOW CASTLE

When Ben Stone and his old mate, Colin Oliver,put tickets on sale for aconcert at Ludlow Castle, they hoped for the best while expecting the worst.

After all, agreeing to meet the costs of one of Britain’s most successful indie rock bands, while paying for the expensive infrastructure that amajor gig requires, hits even the deepest of pockets.

And so they waited to see what happened when tickets went on sale.

And, to their delight, the3,500 early bird tickets sold out in less timethan it takes to say ‘the tickets went like hot cakes’.

Whether they’d repeat the feat, however,when the remaining 1,500 tickets went on sale was adifferent matter And yet, to their delight, the tickets

sold out even quicker than the previous 3,500, giving Ben and Colin asell-out gig in the county’s premier location. Win flippin’ win. ForBen and Oliver,itwas the culmination of years of hard work. They’d planned and dreamed, dreamed and planned –all thewhile being unsure whether or not their ideas would make it off the drawing board and into reality.

They’d known one another for decades. The fiftysomething gig promoters had knocked around in Ludlow,back in the day,and while Ben had gone onto carve out asuccessful career in adigital media and marketing agency,that he owns, Oliver had had to move away.He’d realised very early on that his chosen career in music would be unsupported by asleepy,south Shropshire market town and instead he’d decamped to Leeds, where he’d created the

Ben Stone.

successful music business, Futuresound.

Ben says: “Colin andIhave always been good friends, going back years. We worked together years ago but Colin had to move away to follow his path. He’d put on little gigs back in the day but when he couldn’t find acareer in Ludlow,heset up shop in Leeds. He set up Futuresound

and he basically booked the complete who’s who of Britpop.

“His business went from strength to strength and he formed record labels, record presses, manufacturing companies and management companies and got into bars and venues. He does big events like Live At Leeds and Slamdunk Festival.”

Ben, meanwhile, stayed local. He forged acareer in Ludlow as awebsite developer,marketeer and digital media consultant, operating Visual Works. The business flourished as he won aseries of awards while securing work with a number of big name brands, in addition to local companies.

Well-connected, popular and highly creative, he found asuccessful formula and somehow managed to succeed from offices in arural part of thedistrict instead of having to move to Birmingham, London or further afield.

MEETINGS

Ben’s ability to stay local meant he got involved in anumber of popular events, from Ludlow Food Festivalto thenowdefunct Ludlow Arts Festival, which ran for 53 years before running out of cash

“The Arts Festivalwas great for along time and after awhile it wanted me to be involved in the committee meetings as well as doing the marketing

“They’d always previously put bands from the 1960son. Ihad achatwith Colin and he said he could help them find acts. So we had afew meetings with them and we offered them some really good acts, like Ellie Goulding, in theyear she broke and got her Brit Award.

“There were other acts, like Human League, who had just started touring again. They went with Shakin’ Stevens It didn’t sell out and then the festival folded.”

Afew yearslater,there were other ideas to bring big name artiststoLudlow The Kaiser Chiefs had started touring and were planning to play racecourses. Their singer,Ricky Wilson, was keen to play venues with morecharacter, so Colin booked them for Kirkstall Abbey,in Leeds. Ben and Colin approached Ludlow Castle about doing something similar in Shropshire –onlyto find thedoors firmly shut.

Hope dies last and Ben and Colin refused to give up. They felt denied, having put forward aseriesof good plans

Bastille will play at LudlowCastle next summer

The stage at LudlowCastle for LudlowFestival in 1995.

for the town. Achange of management at Ludlow Castle, however,meant the plans were revived.

“Wewent back to them and they were really receptive. The doors were open and here we are today,with Bastille to play at Ludlow Castle in summer 2023.”

Ben and Colin have asell-out show on their hands –and plansfor other bigname acts further up the road. Butthe overriding purpose isn’t simply to have fun; it’s to enable the next generation of Bens and Colins to do their thing, too.

Ben says: “What we’re seeing in Ludlow is that there are far fewer

opportunities for young people. We see a huge amount of young people leaving the town to find opportunities.

“For along time, me andColin have been talking about theidea that we come from the wrong side of the tracks. So the idea behind the Bastille gig is that we generate enough cash to set up some sort of foundation or charity,which helps other people like us, who want to be creative.

“Wewant to provide aresource for education and learning in Ludlow, particularly for people who arefrom the wrong side of the tracks and would have

trouble finding their way in other ways. It will be arts and culture and sport-related.

“We’re all very,very keen on doing it. Part of the reason we’re doing theshow in the castle is to take money from ticket sales and put that into an organisation. We’re looking to take kids with troubled histories or who are volatile and provide them with mentoring and help them with their mindset.”

It’s alaudable ambition from two local lads –and one that will be given akickstart when thousands of fans gather for a sold-out gig.

Some of the artists who’veperformed elsewhereinthe county in the past. Clockwise from top left,Tom Jones, The Vamps, Madness and Boyzone

HEAD FORTHE HILLS

BY ANDY RICHARDSON

Asweheadtowards Christmas, those who don’t normally leave the sofa will be preparing for aleisurely walk with family and friends. And one of the best places for beginners to walk is Haughmond Hill, just outside Shrewsbury

Haughmond Hill is alarge woodland that is very popular with dog walkers and visitors wanting easy walks with nice views. It has many rough paths, two surfaced trails and agood carpark. There are few places better,for people looking for easy terrain and the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

With parking for more than 100 vehicles, its nearness to Shrewsbury means there is plenty of independent bars, coffee shops and restaurants for post-walk refreshments.

Twotrails areparticularlygood for

newcomers. The Corbett Trail is a1.3km circular trail on abroad, hard-surfaced path. There are plenty of benches around thetrail where you can sit and enjoy the wood. In one or two places thegradient is steep for short distances. Experienced walkers recommend that newcomers follow the route in aclockwise direction.

The Bardon Trail is a1.3kmlinear trail that passes the Quarry viewpoint. There are plenty of benches around the trail where you can sit and enjoy the wood. There is a25-metre long,steep incline to the Quarry viewpoint. Both trails are challenging for unassisted wheelchair users.

In many ways, Haughmond Hill is ideal for those who don’t walk regularly It is open dawn to dusk, disabled parking spaces are available, wheelchair-accessible picnic benches areavailable, there is

excellent access from the car parktopaths and well-controlled dogs are welcome, with dog bins provided.

The hill itself is steeped in history. Haughmond Hill is made up of ancient turbidite sediments from the late Precambrian era which once cascaded off the edge of acontinent into the ocean that surrounded it.

The villages of Uffington and Upton Magna lie below and the B5062 Shrewsbury to Newportroad runs through the northern half of the woodland.

Deer can be found in the woods, which are mixed deciduous/coniferous and are to some extent used for forestry to this day

The hill has several dubious connections with the Battle of Shrewsbury in 1403. Queen Eleanor’s Bower is asmallenclosure on thehill from which the wife of Henry IV of England supposedly watched the battle’s progress.

Finally,the “bosky hill” mentioned in Act VScene IofShakespeare’s Henry IV part 1isalmost certainly Haughmond, which looms to the east of the battlefield:

How bloodily thesun begins to peer

Above yon bosky hill?

The day looks pale

At his distemperature.

Also nearby is Haughmond Abbey, now aruin, and Ebury Hill, aprehistoric fort. The summit has the ruins of Haughmond Castle, afolly originally built about 1780 thatcollapsed in 1931.

View from Haughmond Hill Photo:RobertGwilliamShrewsbury

Haughmond Abbey Photo:JudySmith

GINOD’ACAMPO: WHY WOMEN SHOULD RULE THE WORLD

THE CHEF AND TV PERSONALITY TELLS KATIE WRIGHT WHY HE’SGOING BACK TO HISROOTS FOR HIS LATEST COOKBOOK

Growing up in the town of Torre del Greco just outside Naples, Gino D’Acampo wasn’t like other children.

“All my other cousins, the boys, they were playing football, they were going on their bikes –Iwas never that kind of kid,” the celebrity chef and restauranteur says on phone from the home in Sardinia where he spends six months of each year.

“I was always kind of sit down in the kitchen, help [the adults] out, peeling potatoes, understand about the pasta,” he continues, hisaccent instantly recognisable. “I was always the only boy amongst agroup of women.”

While his late mother Alba began working as anurse aged 18, her eight sisters stayed at home, meaning the young D’Acampo was schooled in the artof cucina povera (‘poor kitchen’ –traditional recipes passed down in frugalhouseholds) by his many aunts.

Not that they were aclose-knit bunch, however

“It was the opposite,” says the 46-year-old, who shares sons Luciano, 20, Rocco, 16, and daughter Mia, 10, with wife Jessica. “Wewere about 68 or 69 cousins in total, so you canimagine there is nothing close about my family.”

Now,with his latest cookbook Gino’s Italy: Like Mamma Used to Make –and accompanying TV series, the Neapolitan native is paying tribute to his beloved relatives. “The idea of the book is to celebrate and say thank you to all the women in my life, especially my family They’ve been abig part of the reason why Iamthe person Iamtoday,” he says.

That’s why you’ll find recipes such as Aunty Lina’s pasta Genovese (thick tubes of pasta smothered with arich,meaty

sauce) and AuntyRita’s baby octopuswith mussels and cherry tomatoes, alongside dishes D’Acampo discovered while cooking with families across Italy

Crisscrossing the country from Naples to Tuscany, he wasinvited into the kitchens of mammas and nonnas who generously shared the perfectly honed recipes passed down through the generations.

While his female-centric early years made ahugeimpression on D’Acampo, it was actually his grandfather,a professional chef,who inspired him to enrol in catering college at the age of 15.

“I remember one day he made gnocchi with asimple tomato sauce, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil,” he recalls of his earliest food memory.“[He started with] some potatoes, abit of flour, eggs, and all of asudden he made this magnificent dish. Thatwas the moment I considered my grandfather aproper artist and hero.”

Moving to the UK five years later, the fledgling chef worked in anumber

of London restaurants before being convicted of burgling the home of pop star Paul Young, and being sentenced to two years in prison.

Determined to succeed in the culinary world following his jail stint, D’Acampo started making TV appearances in the early Noughties, eventually becoming a household name thanks to regular slots on This Morning, fronting hisown series, and winning I’m ACelebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2009.

Alot has changed since the straighttalking chef –now the owner of 11 restaurants, he says, with four more opening by next summer –spent days slaving over astoveinthe maledominated kitchens of thecapital.

“I have to say,I’ve seen female chefs that scare me more than amale chef,”he says.

And he’s all in favour of morewomen rising to the top in every profession: “We should have more women who control countries, then we will have less wars around the world. We should have more female chefs, we should be surrounded by more women –Ireallystrongly believe that.

“When women confront someone, they are not looking for a fight, they are looking for asolution. Men are different.”

Now back in the UK after his extended Sardinian summer,D’Acampo is set to jet off with pals Gordon Ramsay and Fred Sirieix to shoot the next instalment of their popular Road Trip series.

“You only watch 50% of thefun,” says D’Acampo of theshow,suggesting that if viewers ever got to witness theunaired footage the consequences would be dire.

“First of all, Ithink we wouldn’t have

jobs anymore. Second of all, Ithink all our wives will leave us!”

Does he ever worry,inthe eraof cancel culture, that his candid quips or on-screen antics could land him in hot water?

“I’m going to be extremely honest with you –Idon’t reallycare,” he deadpans. “If Icare what other people think I’m gonna waste too much time.”

He concludes: “If you’re anice person, you shouldn’t reallycare about what you’re going to say because you’re never going to hurt anyone. Ithink only malicious, bad people have to worry about stuff like that.”

n Gino’s Italy: Like Mamma Used to Make By Gino D’Acampo is published by Bloomsbury,priced £25

Gino as achild with his mother

Gino D’Acampo with three of his aunts. a child

Spicy fish soup with tomatoes and orange zest.

Ginos’ Biscoff and espresso cheesecake.

’TISTHE SEASON FORFESTIVE FIZZ

This year Christmas and the festive season round off aremarkable year.We’ve celebrated aplatinum jubilee, witnessed the late Queen’s state funeral, seen war return to Europe and there have been three Prime Ministers. So Ifor one am longing for some time to unwind with my loved ones, and this mightjustmean a glass of fizz.

With so many options when it comes to bubbles what is it you should be looking for? How should you make your choice? When Ithink back to celebrations and occasions where I’ve felt the need to pop acork or two, the one constant has been selecting asparkling wine that is well made, with quality grapes andwhere thewine maker has been patient in producing the final product.

In the five sparklers I’ve selected for you for your festive celebrationsyou will find consistently well-made wines, and there is something here for every budget.

We are blessed in Shropshire to have agreat selection of local wine merchants, delis, bars and restaurants that will caterfor you fizzy needs. Fizz comes in so many tantalising variations but to help you navigate the selection available you can always turn to your local wine merchant.Iheadedover to Tanners and caught up with Robert Boutflower who was only too happy to advise and help make sure that when you pop the cork and pour some chilled fizz it will be asure fire hit.

It’s to Tanners that Ihave turned for my first recommendation, one of their own label wines, Tanners Cava. Don’t let the own label fool you, this is proper stuff.Cava is made using the same traditional method as champagnebut using different grapes more ideally suited to their growing conditions in Spain. This Cava spends extra time onthe lees compared to other similarly priced Cavas and this leads to more depth and character The additional fermentation time adds texture and balances acidity What this means is that the drink in your glass punches well above its weight. Ialways make sure Ihave acouple of bottles tucked away for emergency celebrations. It would be very popular with your guests if you’re organising afestiveshindig. Perhaps you’d like to think local? English sparklingwine is surging in popularity and in good warm years some fabulous wines are produced.

While the cradle of English winemaking is along the south coast,in Hampshire and Sussex in particular,the whole of the southern half of England, including Shropshire, produces some top drops.

It’s to one of the growing number of Shropshirewine producers that I’ve selected my second recommendation. Colemere Vineyard’s Sparkling Rosé. Youget alovely fine fizz with plenty of red fruit notes making for acharacterful drink. Rob Windsor is really passionate about his wines andifpink isn’t your thing then the sparkling white is also lovely If you want abig label then Iwould look no further than Champagne Bollinger,mythird suggestion. Differingmost notably from the majority of the large champagne houses Bollinger is family owned. The family are directly involved in the winemaking process and their non-

vintage Champagne is atotal classic. It’s beautifully crisp with awonderful taste of toasted brioche which is perhaps accentuated by the deep golden colour Bollinger is afavouriteofJames Bond, and who am Itoargue? Eddie and Patsy certainly agree too!

Astepupfromnon-vintage Champagnes would be to go for avintageexample. I’ve selected an example from Fortnum and Mason’s. Vintage champagnes are made with grapes harvested in the same season, they vary from year to year,but are consistently made with the patience and care Itold you about earlier.Vintage Champagnes arethe finest expressions of that place at that time.

This example is aVintage Grand Cru which are the finest expressions of the best terroir at that time. While you won’t find abranch of Fortnum’s on any of Shropshire’s high streets unfortunately, they do offer an excellent delivery service, and plenty of other Christmas treats.

If you want to properly push the boat out then go for recommendation five, a very special Champagne for aspecialtime of year.Champagne PolRoger’s Cuvee Winston Churchill is ranked right up amongst the grandest marques available

so while you might opt for some Krug, abottle of Dom Perignonorsome Cristal none of them are named after lifelong Champagne aficionado Sir Winston Churchill, aman who could see no reason not to enjoy abottle of Champagne. Sir Winston became great friends with the PolRoger family before the second world war and they created this wine in his honour after hisdeath

To assess this most special of Champagnes Tanners’ Robert Boutflower explained to me that the PolRoger Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill embodies all the qualities Churchill loved about his favourite Champagnes –it’s robust, full bodied and ripe character

Made from grapes sourced from Grand Cru Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards, this Champagne is only made in the very best vintages. Robert went on to describe the wine itself

He said: “The nose on the wine is bursting with brioche, dried fruit, almond and hazelnut aromas.

“On the palate, the wine is wellbalanced, with notes of grapefruit and orange zest.”

Tanners have the latest release of

Cuvee Winston, the2015,available now, so stock up for Christmas.

Iwill be enjoying some bubbles over the festive period and there might be some rich reds, sumptuous whites and sublime vintage port as well. Iwill be posting about my exploits on Instagram [@drinkswithed], I’d love to hear what you’re drinking too.

‘While the cradle of English winemaking is along the south coast, the whole of the southern half of England, including Shropshire, produces some top drops’

Fortnum’sVintage Champagne, Louis Roederer,Fortnum andMason,£52.50.

THIS SPORTINGLIFE AT LILLESHALL

The former home and hunting lodge of the Duke of Sutherland, Lilleshall Houseisset in 200 acres of thebeautiful Shropshire countryside within gardens inspired by Capability Brown.

It was Duchess Harriet, the wife of the 2nd Duke of Sutherland who, having visited many famous houses and gardens herself influenced the extraordinary architectural and landscape features of Lilleshall. Over thecourse of time Lilleshall Househad some interesting owners, but it did not leave the Sutherland family until 1919 when it was purchased by John Leigh.

In 1927, prominent owners Herbert Ford and his wife, who had made their fortune from Ironbridge Gorge and the legacy of the Lea and Perrinsfamily, famous for their Worcestershire Sauce, bought Lilleshall and furtherestablished the beautiful grounds as pleasuregardens for the public with an amusement park and children’s playgrounds.

Their legacy is very much alive today with anature trail and gardens open to the public. It was also while Henry Ford was in residence that the golf course and Lilleshall’s sporting reputation began to flourish.

It wasn’t until 1966 though, when the England football team trained for two weeks at Lilleshall, that the house and grounds came to the attention of the entire nation ahead of the team’s historic victory

With an historic and sporting heritage few can match, Lilleshall Houseis fully open to the public, offering awide range of accommodation and facilities, as well as providing astunning backdrop for weddings and corporate events.

With fully refurbished, luxurious bedrooms, Chapters Restaurant serving Sunday lunch, classic and historical

rooms for weddings and corporateevents, stunning gardens and The National Sports Centre, Lilleshall is one of the most extraordinary houses in the UK.

Training for the World Cup

When Bobby Moore crouched in front of the fountain at Lilleshall House with the rest of the 1966 England World Cup squad behind him, they could not have realised the footballing legends they would soon become.

England manager Alf Ramsey took the Three Lions to the National Sports Centre at Lilleshall for pre-World Cup training. Theytrained for two weeks in the lead-up to their victory

The players were impressed with their surroundings, and the site was set upwith the latest films for the squad to enjoy, along with niche sports like volleyball and tennis which they could enjoy during any downtime.

In fact, the Lilleshall we see today is not so different to the one thatMoore, Bobby Charlton or Gordon Banks saw all those years ago. Lilleshall still possesses world-class facilities and welcomes worldclass athletes every day

Choose us foryour

Christmas party

Lilleshall Househas it all; greatfood, beautiful surroundings, luxuriousovernight staysand just theright touchofglamour!

Party nights areavailable throughoutDecember and includeadelicious 3course meal withinour beautifulChaptersrestaurantfollowedbya festive disco– forjust£33pp

To makeanenquiry or booking, visit lilleshallhouse.co.uk or call us on 01952 603003

Taking placeinthe stunningLilleshall House, this festivetreat includesa2 course mealand agiftfor allchildren over3years old.It’sthe perfectday for makingfestive memories and being together at this specialtimeofyear.

Theprice is £22.50 foradults, £14for children over3 yearsold and under3’s eatFREE!

CHRISTMAS CHUTNEY ROLLS

FESTIVE PASTRIES TO PERK UP YOUR TABLE

Christmas is coming and Midlands artisan Cottage Delight has created a series of delectable recipes. Cottage Delight was founded in 1974, originally creating handmade butter fudge. Over the subsequent years the Cottage Delight range grew to include jams, marmalades, curds, chutneys, table sauces and more. Four delicious decades later,itisstill residing at its home in the heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands and continues to create its original fudge. Its incredible journey would not have been possible without the support of independent trade and it remains loyal to those local retailers. Hereisaseriesofeasyto-makerecipes, all using Cottage Delight products, that will put the sparkle into your festive table.

Prep: 20 minutes

Cook: 30 minutes

Serves: 12

Ingredients

320g puff pastry

400g turkey mince

4streaky bacon rashers, finely chopped

75g dried stuffing mix

1egg, beaten

Fresh sage

Cracked black pepper

4tbsp Cottage Delight festivefig& port chutney

150g Stilton

Gravy, optional dip

1egg, beaten

Method:

Preheat the oven to 200C/ 180C fan/ gas 6and line abaking tray with baking parchment.

In abowl mix together theturkey, bacon, stuffing, egg, sage and pepper until well combined.

Roll out the puff pastry and cut in half into two long strips. Spread the fig&port chutney down the centre of each strip.

Mould the turkey mix into two long rolls then place down the centre of each pastry section on top of the chutney.Place some thinly slice stilton on top of the turkey.Brush one side of the pastry on each strip with the beaten egg.

Fold the pastry over and seal the edges with afork. Repeat with theother section.

Place the rolls onto the bakingtray, leaving enough space between them to expand. Brush each roll with beaten egg and cut slits into the tops.

Bake for 30 minutes until golden then cut into slices.

Leave to cool for afew minutes then tuck in. Dip into gravyfor Christmas heaven.

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 15 minutes Serves: 6

Ingredients

320g puff pastry

6tbsp Cottage Delight Perfect Party Pickle (320g jar)

200g brie cheese, sliced

2tbsp pistachio nuts, roughly chopped 1egg, beaten

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6and linea baking sheet with parchment paper.Roll out thepastry and cut out a large circle. Lay the pastry circle on the prepared baking sheet. Mark an inner circle with amedium-sizedbowl, taking care not to press allthe waythrough the pastry.Make four cuts across the circle to create eight triangles.

Spread the Perfect Party Pickle around the outer circle then top with the brie and pistachios.

SLOW COOKED TURKEY &CRANBERRY WELLINGTON

From the four cuts, bring one triangle of the centre outwards over the filling as well as bringing the outer edge of the pastry inwards. Pressthe two together and continue all the way around with the remaining seven triangles until youhave awreath.

Brush with beaten egg then place in the oven and allow to bake for 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from the oven, allow to rest for fiveminutes, then slice and serve.

Prep: 30 minutes

Cook: 6-8 hours in slowcooker Serves: 6-8

For the slowcooked turkey

600g turkey crown

1large onion, cut into eight wedges

4bay leaves

2tbsp cider vinegar

60g butter

1large bunch fresh thyme, leaves only

BRIE &PICKLE PASTRY WREATH

BOXING DAYPICKLE PIE

Prep: 20 minutes

Cook: 1hour

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

2sheets of pre-rolled shortcrust pastry

1jar Cottage Delight Perfect Party Pickle

8slices of leftoverChristmasham

300g cooked turkey

300g leftoverpork stuffing (or 1packet mix, made according to instructions)

250g maturecheddar,grated 1egg, beaten

Method:

Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6 Grease and flour adeep, round 18cm, loose bottomed or spring form pie tin.

Line the tin with asheetofshortcrust pastry and spread half the jar of Perfect Party Pickle across the base.

Fill with layers of ham, Perfect Party Pickle, turkey,stuffing and cheese, until the tin is full. Ensure you packinthe layers,pressing them into the pie as you go.

Cut alid, using the pie tin as aguide, andplace this on the top of the pie and crimp around the edges.

Cut festive decorations with the pastry off-cuts and arrange these on top of your pie.

Glaze the top generously with beaten egg and cut ahole in thetop.

Bake in the oven for one hour,(check and add tin foil over top if catching after 40 minutes) until golden brown.

Allow to cool inside the tin and serve hot or cold for Boxing Day lunch.

Method:

Place the onions into aslow cooker.Layer with the thyme and bay leaves and place the turkey on top. Rub thebutter on the top and spoon over the cider vinegar and asplash of water.Cook on high for six hours, or low for eight hours.

Once cooked and slightly cooled, shred the turkey

Alternatively,use leftover pre-cooked and shredded turkey

For the Wellington

1x 225g jarCottage Delight Classic Cranberry Sauce

1freerange egg yolk, beaten

3tbsp oliveoil

640g pre-rolled puff pastry

170g stuffing mix made to packet instructions

Flour for dusting

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Oliveoil

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 180Cfan/200C/gas 6.

To assemble the Wellington, place one sheet of puff pastry onto alightly greased baking sheet and spoon on alayer of stuffing evenly in the centre. Ensure you

leave 5cm from the short edges and 8cm at the long edges. Layer on the shredded turkey then finish with Classic Cranberry Sauce on top. Don’t press into theturkey

Brush egg around the outside of the pastry layer

Lift the second piece of pastry and place on top of the turkey,pressing the pastry over the sides. Trim the pastry joins to about 4cm and seal theedgeswiththe backofafork. Brush all over with the remaining beaten egg.

Use asharp knife and carefully make diagonal slits into the pastry,ensuring not to cut through.

Cook for 30-35 minutes. The pastry should be golden and crisp. Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

SEVEN WINTRY SPIRITSTOSPARK YOUR INTEREST

EVEN AWELL-STOCKED BAR NEEDS ALITTLE LOVE, SAYS SAM WYLIE-HARRIS

Tired of reaching for the same old drink? Has your usual merlot lost its mojo? We love aweekday wine but some days you want to try anew take on amuch-loved drink.

Especiallyif you’re looking to vamp up your cocktail cabinet ahead of party season, or if the drinks trolley needs a dust down and topping up.

These winter warmers, appealing aperitivos and limited editions will look great on your bar cart as you count down to happy hour…

Beefeater London Dry Gin, £18.49, 70cl, Drink Supermarket

One of the world’s bestloved gins has been transformed into awork of art by London-based artist Lakwena Maciver.Known for her vibrant, joy-inducing colours (she’s worked with everyone from Nike to Mini) this latest collaboration and kaleidoscope of pattern and colour celebrates ‘the spirit of London’ –and is sure to heighten your G&T experience.

AKER English Rosé Aperitif, £35, 75cl, AKER

An A-list aperitivo to drink in the British countryside, English wine producer Chapel Down have teamed up with spirits distiller Capreolus to create adelightfully refreshing, fragrant and fruity aperitif made with rosé wines, raspberry eau de vie and English botanicals.With delicate notes of rose petals, strawberries and summer fruits, enjoy over icewith tonic or soda water.Anadded bonus, the flavours chime with English bubbles topped with soda.

CÎROC Passion Flavoured Vodka, £33, 70cl, Amazon

Anew expression to their library of flavoured vodkas.

In addition to CIROC’s five times distilled vodka made from Frenchgrapes, Passion’s crowd-pleasing blend of tropical, citrusy flavours aligned with notes of mango and hibiscus makes for arich, smooth bitter-sweet spirit to seduce the taste buds. To draw inspiration from this distinctive flavour and eyecatching bottle, think vodka spritzer with your favourite fruit juice.

No3 Last Word,Bottled Cocktail, £29.95, 50cl, BBR.com

When you want to shake things up for a Prohibition-era cocktail soirée, without having to… umm, reachfor acocktail shaker,The Last Word is where it’s at. Historically a gin-based cocktail comprising equal amounts of gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur and freshly-squeezed lime juice, this one’s made with No 3 London Dry Gin. With the addition of yuzu, jasmine and cherry flavours blended with aherbaceous liqueur for an exquisitely tangy, floral andrefreshing cocktail.

Hartington Stilton Whey Vodka, £39, Cuckoostone Craft Distillery

Did someone say cheese and vodka party? If you’re thinking of combiningaslice of Stilton with ashotofvodka, this could be the perfect pairing. Distilled with fresh whey from the Stilton-making process at Hartington Creamery in the picturesque Derbyshire Dales, Cuckoostone vapour

infuse this vodka with six botanicals and charcoal filter for smoothness. With aslight chilling and served neat in atumbler,this smooth, creamy vodka offers delicate zesty notes with awhisper of Stilton’s aromas and unique taste.

StarwardLeft-Field Single Malt Australian Whisky, currently £25 (was £35), 70cl, Waitrose Whisky highballs are trending big time –whisky’sbold flavours are awinter warmer even with atop up of tonic and lots of ice. Starward’s Left-Field was awarded the inaugural trophy for the Whisky Highball category at the IWSC 2022 Mixer Awards. An Australian single malt with tropical fruit flavours alongside red fruit notes from ageing in Frenchoak red wine barrels, it’s theperfect introduction to this refreshingly tall drink that’s easy to fix.

Silver Patrón Limited Edition

Mexican Heritage TinSilver Tequila 2022, £56, 70cl, Harvey Nichols

This striking collector’s item will appeal to cocktail afficionados who prize this Mexican spirit. Apremium tequila made from the finest Blue Weber agave, each year Patrón releasea limited-edition Mexican Heritage Tin–and this cutting-edge design is by award-winning Mexican sculptor Sebastian. Best known for his steel geometric forms and bold colours, this year’s feast of colour is sure to enhance your at-home drink experience and maximize your margarita.

ALL UNDER ONEROOF

Tis the season to place your order for all your Christmas goodies at Maynard’s Farm. Turkeys, geese, ham, beef .orperhaps all of these! Maynard’s Farm can supply you with all the ingredients for themain event: cranberry sauce, bread sauce, pigs in blankets, sausage meat, and spices: cloves, star anise, cinnamon sticks –and even sticks of sprouts

And don’t forget to stock up for those lazy post-Christmas days –you can buyeverything you need for atraditional full English breakfast ready for Boxing Day morning.

The shop is stacked with lots of tantalising Christmas goodies –iced Christmas cakes, mince pies, pork pies, Shropshire Salumi, cheeses, patés, Christmas pickles, marinated figs, Shropshire ales and fabulous wines from Tanners and John Villar,along with arangeof non-alcoholic cordials.

There are plenty of ideas for Christmas gifts too –beautiful French baskets in anarray of colours just waiting to be filled with exotic Christmas treats –you can also choose candles and room diffusers from the fabulous Hawthorne House range.

Come and visit us in thefarm shop or call us on 01948 840252 where as well

as our Christmas meats, we are also now taking orders for stunning, locally-made Christmas wreaths.

Alternatively,you can download our Christmas order form and email itto thekitchen@maynardsfarm.co.uk

There’s free parking at this family business, and friendly customer service. Open 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday

GUIDETO PERFECT PAIRINGS

BY TIFFANY VERNON,DIGITAL MARKETING AT TANNERS

Asthe Christmas lights twinkle on our streets and decorated firtrees sit proudly in our homes, we are all eagerly awaiting the big day to arrive

No matter what your preferred preparations for the build-up may be, there is one tradition that we all havein common –the annual indulgent meal of Christmas Daydinner.Ofcourse, no traditional roast is complete without a tipple or two, especially at Christmas!

Ihave no doubts, therefore, that swinging by Tanners Wines is an integral part of preparing for the festive period ahead. In the midst of merry madness, however,it’sunderstandable that you

might need anudge of guidance as to what you are looking for on the shelves. Depending on your budget, your preferred style, and perhaps how much you like your relatives, here is aquick cheat sheet to find the perfect Christmas wines for the best value.

To make things simple, Iwill categorize each wine style into Basic (your easy and accessible benchmark wine), Better (a step up in quality and punching above its weight)and Best (the top-notch treat to indulge in).

This year –perhaps more than ever –Iammindfulthatweall need to be a little thrifty so value for money in this selection is key.But bear in mind that we all deserve alittle treat too…

Let’s kick thingsoff by popping the cork on sparkling wine.

Basic: Fabio Ceschin Prosecco Frizzante, Treviso£11.95 or £9.95 per bottle when you buy six or more, is vivacious and fun –this has agentle fizz meaning alighter Prosecco showing fruity and floral characteristics and with an easy screwcap,this is always ready to get the party started!

Better: Vérizet, Crémant de Bourgogne Brut, Cave de Viré £17.50 or £15.50 when you buy two or more, is rich and flavoursome– Crémants are Frenchsparkling wines made in the Champagne method from other French regions, offering terrificvalue and atouch of sophistication, this is brimming with citrus fruit and biscuit character

Best: Beaumont des Crayères Fleur de Prestige,Brut Champagne 2012 was £39.95now £33.95, the cream of the crop has to be vintage Champagne –fromthe makers of Tanners house Champagne comes this sensational sparkly temptation! The 2012 vintage is referred to as a‘Champagne miracle’ after initial weather conditions of this year tortured the grapes but things rapidly turned around at the crucial moment, resulting in 2012 becomingone of the most celebrated vintages in recent years. Toasted brioche layered with orchard fruits, lip-smacking grapefruit and asprinkling of nuts. Who doesn’t want aChampagne miracle at Christmas?!

Now that thebubbles are ticked off,let’s talk about awhite Christmas. When pairing to a traditional Christmas dinner, Chardonnay is key:

Basic: Castillo Monjardin Chardonnay,ElCerezo, Navarra 2021£10.50 or £9.50 per bottle when buying three or more, is an unoaked vibrant white boasting asumptuous

The Tanners Six at £55

green fruit medley coupled with peaches and alluring perfume. ASpanish Chardonnay close to the Rioja region, this wine always impresses.

Better: Château Rives-Blanques Odyssée, Chardonnay,Limoux 2021 £16.50or£15 when you buy two or more, is one of my go-to favourite whites –the moment Iinhale the seductive aromas of pineapple, stone fruit and lemony goodness entwined with vanilla pod; Icannotwait to bring the glass to my lips!

Revered wine writer Jancis Robinson likens this wine to a white Burgundy (without the price tag), and Idon’t need any more persuading than that…

Best: Chablis, Vieilles Vignes, Daniel-Etienne Defaix 2018 was £26.50 now £22.50, Chablis needs little introduction and is often the epitome of a Christmas day wine. This has depth and complexity achieved through extended ageing, making for amoreintense and concentrated Chablis that exudes citrus fruit, manuka honey,assorted apples and mineral tones. The turkey won’t know what’s hit it!

If like me your relatives always plump for red wines whatever the occasion, I feel you can’t go wrong with aCabernet

Sauvignon –not too rich and not too light but always delicious. I certainly won’t be saying no to any of these:

Basic: Tanners Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley 2020 £9.50 or £8.50 when buying six bottles, a Tanners own-label never fails to excite and this purse-friendly Cab is bursting with crunchy blackcurrant fruit with justa hint of liquorice.

Better: La Petite FermeCabernet Sauvignon, Franschhoek 2019 £15.50 or £14 per bottle when you buy three or more, is from an iconic winery for anyone who knows Franschhoek –La Petite Fermestartedlifeasan incredible restaurant with an on-site vineyard that created wines to match each handcrafted dish. The wines quickly rose to international fame and luckily the result means we can drink them at home on Christmas day! This boasts delicious morello cherry with ripe cassis, entwined with leather and asuggestionof cigar box accompanied by avelvety mouthfeel.

Best: Moulin de La Lagune, HautMédoc 2015 £28.95 or £25.95per bottle when you buy six or more, is

the second wine of the prestigious3rd Grand Cru Château La Lagune and crafted from the standout 2015 vintage. Expect intoxicating aromas of dark, hedgerow berries shrouded in chocolate and earthy undertones whilst the palate expresses voluptuous black cherry and cassis entwined with cedar and sweet spice. Classy and seamless, thisiswhatI consider to be atraditional Christmas Day bottle.

To wrap up (pun intended), Iamsure any of these Basic, Better or Best wines will complete your Christmas, but if you’re still unsureofhow to begin choosing your festive tipples, you won’t be disappointed with grabbing the Tanners Six at £55. This hand-picked selection showcases some of our best and most popular house labels from alip-smacking Sauvignon to arich and fruity Malbec –adependable range to suit everyone at the table!

But before you rush off to stock up from Tanners’ shelves, don’t forget the stocking fillers too… We have an enticing rangeofsmall alcoholic treats andpracticalwine gadgets alongside the all-time favourite ‘magic balls’ –trust me once you’ve tried them there is no going back!

you all avery Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Wishing

‘Weall need to be alittle thriftysovalue for money is key. Butbearinmind that we alldeservealittle treat too’

GET INTO THE SPIRIT WITH DRAMBUIE

What’sitliketobeamixologist and whisky expert?

During my days as acocktail bartender, Iworked in one of UK’s top bars and restaurants,OlorosoinEdinburgh, and in that role Iwas constantly exposed to new ingredients, flavoursand trends in the alcohol and culinary world, so naturally Idiscoverednew things and developed adeep love and appreciation for quality food and drink. That passion has never left me as my career has developed.

The role of bartender is about being afantastic host, developing rapport with customers and creatinga real experience for someone. Hospitality is so much more than just ordering adrink. Bartending takes the mixologist’s role alittle further and requires adifferent set of skills to creating adelicious and balanced drink.

Howdid you start in the role?

Whilst Iwas born andraised in the UK, when Ireceived the job opportunity from Drambuie, I’d been working for its parent company for several years in the USA.

I’ve been an ambassador for whisky brands before and found Drambuie an intriguing proposition to work on particularly as awhisky-based product which is unique in flavour and decadent in texture compared to regular whisky

It also comes with an amazing back story –the recipe canbetraced back to the 18th centuryand was created for Bonnie Prince Charlie by his Royal Apothecary I’ve always loved the heritage of the brand whilst also being able to keep its serves modern and relevant.

FREDDY MAY,GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR AND DRINKS EXPERT FOR DRAMBUIE, GIVES SOME EXPERT TIPS FOR USING THE WHISKY IN COCKTAILS AND RECIPES

Christmas Gingerbread and Drambuie Roulade. .Visit www.drambuie.com for recipe

What work do you carry out for Drambuie?

As global ambassador for Drambuie,my job is to showcase the best of the spirit to our colleagues and customers around the world –I’m very lucky that Iget to travel extensivelyinmyrole.

Whether that’s showing Drambuie to bartenders at events in South America, holding training sessions for our distributor partners in the Nordic countries, or developing new serves and cocktail recipes to suggest to UK consumers.

It’s an incredibly varied role and I’m very lucky that thecompany has along-term vision and nurturing approach to alegendary product like Drambuie –they even let me escape to the Isle of Skye occasionally,which is the birthplace of Drambuie.

What makes Drambuie agreat drink and howcan it be used?

Howisitversatile for Christmas specifically?

Drambuie is aunique drink that has a luxurious combination of flavour and texture, which you cannot get with whisky alone.

The recipe is unique and only three people know it –including our master blender Brian Kinsman. The recipe is held under lock and key which creates the most fantastic mystique about the drink. We do know that the secret blend of herbs and spices is complemented by Scottish-sourced heather honey produced in Dumfries and Galloway by abeekeeper

who has been providing it for over 20 years to Drambuie. Its versatility as a drink is perfect for the festive season and it is best served after dinner with something deliciously sweet. Ialways recommendthat it is served neat over ice or as aDrambuie Iced Espresso, which is absolutely delicious. The rich coffee flavours complement the spices and add layers of complexity to the drink.

Drambuie is also agreat addition as arecipeingredient to desserts and adds alovely warmth. There are plenty of fantastic recipes on thewebsite to inspire people. My dad is acoeliac so this year,Iplan to make him the gluten-free Drambuie Christmas pudding.

Throughout the festive season, Ilove highlighting Drambuie’s versatility and impressing guests around the table so this year Iwill recreate our decorativeand delicious recipes from the website including a Drambuie meringue Christmas wreath with pomegranate jewels, marshmallow salted caramel Drambuie bites and a gingerbread and Drambuie roulade.

I’ll also be making rounds of the Festive Drambuie Espresso Martini, the ultimate Christmas twist on theclassic cocktail with ashowstopping snowflake stencil. My favourite is the Drambuie Iced Espresso which takes such little effort to make, but bringsa great impact visually and in flavour.Ialso servewith some small jugs of milk or dairy-free alternatives on the side for anyone who enjoys milk in their Drambuie coffee.

FestiveDrambuie Espresso Martini

This is the ultimate festivetwist on the classic and popular caffeinated cocktail, the Espresso Martini. Create the perfect Crema and replace the traditional three espresso beans with afestive snowflake and sparkles to wowyourguests with a memorable after dinner treat.

Ingredients

25ml Drambuie liqueur 25ml whisky (eg. Monkey Shoulder) 50ml espresso Lots of ice 5ml vanilla syrup (optional)

To garnish

White edible cakeglitter

White sugar crystal rocks, crushed Liquid glucose, honey or golden syrup Cocoa powder

Snowflakestencil

Method

Mix alittle of the edible cakeglitter with the crushed sugar crystal rocks and place on asmall plate.

Use your finger or abrush to carefully coat the rim of the glass with the liquid glucose or egg white, then dip into the glittery sugar medley.

For the perfect Crema, pour all ingredients without ice, into acocktail shaker or equivalent (a jam jar will do), and shakevigorously, then add lots of ice to the shaker,and shakeagain. This will create the perfect foam beforepouring into achilled martiniglass.

For the final flourish, set asnowflake stencil overthe top of the glass and gently dust over the cocoa powder using asmall fine tea strainer or sieve.

Serveimmediately.

n Recipes from www.drambuie.com

What arethe best ways to prepare your home bar for Christmas?

Keep it simple

Every good host Iknow has afew recipes in their repertoire that they know will go down brilliantly with their guests.

Forme, the best way to prepare a home bar is to know your audience and have afew cocktail recipes you know that you can make exceptionally well and confidently –don’t go for something complicated! Ioften premix acouple of cocktails, for example aclassic Negroni is always agood winter choice.

Make pre-made batches of drinks

Formyfamily and I, coffee is abig deal at Christmas time and throughout the year I’ve been buying in cold brew coffee from Kuka Coffee which come in recyclable 500ml glass bottles. Not only is it great option to have on hand for iced coffee on Christmas mornings, Ialso recommend keeping the bottle to make pre-batched coffee cocktails. When the bottle is half finished, fill it up with Drambuie and this makes atasty premade Drambuie Iced Espresso, which you can serve at your festive get-together straight from the bottle, with no fuss. Making the mix ahead will not only save you time but makes your Christmas shop really easy

Batch make ice

Tryreusing plastic takeaway containers to make large pieces of ice instead of using tiny ice cube trays that come with your freezer.You’ll go through ice quicker than you think and having large quantities of ice readily available will take the stress out of remembering to freeze ice trays throughout theevening.

Make your own coffee cold brew for drinks

Why not make your own cold brew? Simply add one regular sized bag of ground coffee to ajug with onelitre of filtered water and let it sit in the fridge

overnight. It also works well with decaf coffee and for aholiday twist, you can find a flavoured coffee or syrups like hazelnut. The cold brew can be used for the coffeebased cocktails and drinks you plan to serve on the day

Have afew staples up your sleeve

Make sure you have some staple spirits like vodka, gin, awhite and dark rum and classic whisky,as well as tasty non-alcoholic options, then plenty of mixers including tonic, soda water and lemonade, so your guests have lots of options.

With garnishes, don’t go crazy and buy in ahuge variety –citrus fruits work well with most drinks. Trylimes, lemons, oranges and grapefruits, cutting them a few hours before your festive get-together and popping them in ashallow bowl of water and store in thefridge –they’ll keep for the whole evening.

Don’t go crazy purchasing bar equipment

One of the best purchases Imade is a miniature 60ml measuring jug. Combine this with agood Hawthorne cocktail strainer and everything else in my opinion is optional.

Even without agold-platedcocktail shaker you can use aclean empty jam jar, and sometimes Ieven use my thermally insulated coffee cup as amixer! Iuse mine for making stirred drinks like Rusty Nails or Martinis.

We also need avessel to drink out of,sonow is areally good time to make sure you’ve got more than acouple of nice glasses. The next time you pass a charity shop or antiques store have alook for some cool vintage martini or sherry glasses. Don’t just put them in acupboard as they also make good display pieces too.

n Formore recipes visit www.drambuie. com

Drambuie salted caramel marshmallowbites

Soft white mallowiscomplemented by Drambuie’s rich butterscotch and spiced honeyed flavours for the perfect bitesized treat.

Preparation time 1hour Makes about 20

Ingredients

Sunfloweroil for greasing 4tbsp icingsugar 2tbsp cornflour 200g shop-bought soft caramel ½ tsp sea salt flakes 1½ tbsp Drambuie liqueur 2eggs whites 9sheets gelatine 500g caster sugar 1tbsp liquid glucose

Method

Grease a25cmx 20cm roasting dish with sunfloweroil and line with non-stick baking paper.Mix together the icing sugar and cornflour and sift half of it overthe prepared tray. Mix together the caramel, salt and Drambuie liqueur and set aside. Beat the egg whites in a heatproof bowl using ahand mixer,until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Put the gelatine in abowl, coverwith 130ml cold water and leavetosoften. Heat the caster sugar,liquid glucose and 200ml water over amedium heat until it reaches130C, then takethe pan off the heat. Carefully add the gelatine and water to the hot pan and stir until the gelatine has dissolved. Carefully pour the mixtureinto alarge heatproof jug. Briefly beat the eggwhitesagain until it forms stiff peaks, then continue whisking while you slowly pour the hot sugar mixturedownthe insideof the bowl into the egg whites. Continue to beat for another 10-15 minutes until thick and smooth. Fold the salted caramel through the marshmallow mixture, then spoon into the prepared tin. Level to set for up to four hours. To serve, dust the marshmallowwiththe remaining icing sugar mix. Tipout onto a cutting boardand cut into squares.

Drambuie, clementine and pomegranate meringue wreath. Visitwww.drambuie.com for recipe

ARETURN TO THE CLASSROOM

BY PETER LOVE

Three alumnae ladies now in their 80s and 90s –one from as far away as the United States –have recently paid avisit to aShropshire school which they affectionately remember from a completely different era.

They were educated at Our Lady of Sion Convent School which was housed at Acton Burnell Hall before it became the current home of Concord College, universally famous for its international communityofstudents who flyfrom all across the world to this pretty part of Shropshire to study and take their GCSEs and A-levels, many going on to top universities.

The convent school moved to Acton Burnell in the 1940s to escape the dangers of the second world war and was there until the early 1970s when Concord College transferred to the Hall from its original site in TunbridgeWells, Kent

On theirvisits, thealumnae ladies, who all attended at different time periods, supplied Mrs Alison Chadwick, Concord College’s Alumni Officer,with interesting stories and fascinating old photos.

Alison said: “Concord is avery happy place to come to learn and we get visits weekly from Concord College alumni of all ages, keen to reminisce about fond memories of their time here and at the same time to chat with their old teachers,

many of whom have worked at the college for decades.

“Over recent months it has been lovely to also welcome some alumnae of the Our Lady of Sion Convent School who wanted to revisit their old classrooms, dining room and dormitories. They gave an absolutely enthralling insight into life at the school in the 1940s and 1950s and told me what ahappy place it was –justlike now.”

Grade II listed Acton Burnell Hall boasts lots of original features and many of the rooms, although they have changed use as Concord College has grown in size, look just as they used to 80 years ago and more.

Frances Kay visited Concord College with her mother’s cousin Anne, who attended Our Lady of Sion school during the second world war having been evacuated there. Walking round the grounds brought back lots of memories.

Alison said: “Anne was the oldest alumna from Our Lady of Sion to visit this summer and recalled hearing about the DDay landings over the radio in what is now our staff room. She told me she was there with Elizabeth de Gaulle, daughter of Frenchwartime leader Charles, who was also sent to theschool for safety by her famous father

“Anne was concerned thatthis wartimeinformation aboutafamous student might still be ‘top secret’. I

Ruth Pinfold, fourth from left,and fellowpupils preparefor atennis lesson.

Ruth Pinfold at ConcordCollege this year

checked online and managed to find some fantastic photos of Elizabeth and her classmates sitting with the nuns in our staff room –then aclassroom –and working on an Acton Burnellfarm. I think it is safe to saythis information is now in the public domain.

“I learned that all the girls got stuck in with gardening too, some even bringing their own garden forks and spades in order to grow vegetables and keep the gardens looking smart.

“Anne was, however,sad to see that the lovely old chapel at Acton Burnell Hall is now acommon room for students to relax in. She hopes that one day we will find photos of when it was used by the nuns, pupils and even Italian POWs housed nearby for worship.”

Over the summer,alumna Ruth Pinfold also visited the Concord College campus from her home in the USA to reminisce about her school days. Ruth

Pupils taking part in gymnastics.

Above,the school’srefectory, nowthe Conference Room as shown below.

was at the Our Lady of Sion School in the 1950s and, said Alison, brought with hera number of ‘wonderful photos’ of the nuns and students –all therooms still easy to recognise today

Alison said: “Ruth has had aterrific lifeand Ienjoyed listening to her stories. She told me what ahappy place the Convent School was, that children from many backgrounds attended, including

Ruth Pinfold, front centre, in class.

those of important international figures, and the nuns were very kind.

“Asthe student bedrooms were all empty for the summer,wewereable to look inside one of them and Ruth remarked at how lucky students are today with their modern en-suite rooms –with doors!

“It struck me that althoughthe building has been home to twodifferent

schools, how similar they were both in surroundings and in their ethos in spite of the decades of change. Bothschools have been very happy places to learn, the students, both from home andabroad, working hard and always well cared for by their teachers.”

On leaving Shropshire, the OurLady of Sion School moved to Worthing in West Sussex where it is today

ANTIQUES

STARSOF CERAMIC DYNASTY

BY CAROLINE DENNARD, EUROPEAN CERAMICS, GLASS AND MILITARIA SPECIALIST

Our December Fine Art, Antiques and Jewellery Auction taking place on December 7isalways apopular one that attracts interest from both the Christmas gift market and traditional collectors.

As the European Ceramics specialist, I am delighted to say that we have recently consigned aprivate collection of Royal Worcester porcelain painted by the leading factory painters Harry and James Stinton. The Stinton name is synonymous with Royal Worcester,with different members of this four-generation family dynasty w working as painters at the manufactory for

around 160 years. Henry Stinton was the first of this family to enter the profession and found his calling at the Grainger Worcester factory,painting predominantly flowers and insects. Of his five sons, three went on to become porcelain painters. His eldest, John Stinton Jnr,joined the profession at the relatively late ageof 35 and specialised in landscapes and figural painting. In turn,his youngest son, James, enjoyed painting brightly coloured game birds, such as pheasantsor ducks.

In 1904, Royal Worcester purchased Grainger andthisimportant family of painters with it. John Stinton Jnr’s youngest son, Harry,is well-represented

in this sale. His charmingand highly recognisable scenes of Highland cattle, similar to that of his father,depicting cattle watering from lakes or streams in misty mountainous landscapes, have become one of the most sought-after subjects by collectors. To many,his work is the best of its type.

Items of notefrom this private collection include acased presentation coffee service, painted with pheasants by James Stinton, complete with aset of original silver gilt teaspoons, estimated at £400-£600, and Highland cattle vases by Harry Stinton, each lot ranging in estimates of £300-£600.

Elsewhere in the sale are five Royal Copenhagen figures designed by Carl Martin-Hansen. These delightful models of children formed part of aseries of Danish national costumes, representing 47 regions, first produced from1906-1925 and are estimated at £200-£300 each.

Public viewing for this auction is on Sunday,Monday and Tuesday, December 4-6, at ourShrewsbury salerooms in Battlefield, SY4 3DR.View the auction online now at www.hallsgb.com/fine-art

n If you have any items that you would like to obtain avaluation on or advise about selling at auction, please do not hesitate to get in touch by calling 01743 450 700 or emailing me directly at carolined@hallsgb.com

Part of the private collection of Royal Worcester.

Royal Copenhagen figureofa‘Finnish Girl

’and ‘Greenland Boy’.

ANTLER FURNITURE FETCHES A DEER PRICE

The penultimate auction of the Trevanion 2022 calendar was full of triumphs and surprises. While the November auction included aselection of moretraditional arts and antiques, someofthe top prices of the day came from an extraordinary collection of antler furniture.

Looking as if they had been drawn straight from afantasy novel, the unusual console table and grand chairswere in fact consigned from aprivate estate in Cheshire, and arethought to have originally hailed from Bostock Hall. On sale day,a flurry of online bids flew in ultimately however,the table and chairs sold to local collectors for £1,900 and £3,600 respectively

Animal horns and antlers were used in home furnishings as early as the 15th century,their natural shapes being conducive for use as clothes hooks, storageracks and even chandeliers, but it wasn’t until the 19thcentury that they were more widely used in furniture.

The style saw aboom in the mid-19th century after the Great Exhibition

of 1851, where Hamburg sculptor H.F.C. Rampendahl exhibited horn furniture pieces such as bureaus, chairs and sofas. The opulent furnishings captured the imaginations of the ambitious European middle class, and demand for antler furniture saw amassive upswing. Following the Great exhibition, manufacturers from Germany,Austria and the USA began producing antler products, from large scale furniture to household ware such as desk sets and cutlery

By the 1920s, the tastefor antler furniture had come to an abruptend,and many manufacturers ceased production. In the last decade however,the market has been reinvigorated by lodge style and cabin décor trends in interior design. While modern reproductions are in high demand, original antique pieces are sought after in auction circles.

Elsewhere, the top price of the day came from an unusual Art Nouveau earthenware vase by renowned Hungarian porcelain factory Zsolnay.Founded in 1863, the Zsolnay factory gained notoriety for its innovative use of materials, in particular the ‘eosin technique’, whereby asecret substance that has been placed on the glazed porcelain is partly burned away

The secret eosin glazerenders porcelaintoappear iridescent metallic. Named after the Greek Goddess of Dawn

Eos, this technique became atrademark of the Zsolnay brand, and the eosinbased iridescence became afavourite of art nouveau and Jugendstil artists. The technique was exhibited beautifully in this month’s auction, the vase decorated with iridescent fish against amottled blue ground. The vase surpassed aconservative pre-sale estimate selling for an incredible £6,500 + buyer’s premium.

Elsewhere in the sale, asingle owner collection of gentleman’s wristwatches fetched the handsome sum of £13,000 + buyer’s premium. The collection, which came from alargeestate in Cheshire, boasted aselection of pieces by important makers such as Tudor and Omega.

The top price came from aspecial edition Omega Seamaster GMT Professional Chronometer wristwatch which hammered at £6,000 +buyer’s premium. The watch was especially designed for members of Britain’s elite Special Boat Service (SBS), a specialised contingent of theUK’s Royal Marine Commandos, and was produced as part of alimited run of 500, only available for purchase to ‘badged’ SBSqualified members. While most of the limited run is still in the hands of original owners, afew have reached the collector’s market.

Other lots of note include aTudor Black Bay ‘Harrods’ Edition wristwatch which made £2,600, and an unusual Omega Seamaster ‘Soccer Timer’ wristwatch which sold for £1,800.

Omega Seamaster GMT Professional Co-Axial wristwatch.

Apair of 19th century redand fallowdeer antler chairs.

Simon Groverand the Zsolnay Pecs Hungary Art Nouveau earthenwarevase.

STEP UP FOR PARENTS’ EVENINGS

The head of aShropshire school has announced moves to upgrade its parents’ evenings while also sending home more reports to improve efforts to help pupils reach their full potential.

Anna Karacan, who joined Old Hall School in September from Kellett in Hong Kong, said the move was part of an extensive plan, working alongside parents, to create the highest possible standards at the school.

It comes as Mrs Karacan said she was delighted to have received an “incredible response” to aparents’ survey she issued within her first few weeks in the role.

She said increasing thenumber of parents’ evenings to three each year was one of the first developments she wanted to share following the survey

Schools in the UK have to provide

at least one parents’ evening ayearwith most holding two.

“Wewill now hold aparents’ evening every term for every year group,” she said.

“I am a fierceadvocate of parents who want the best from aschool for their children and who are actively engaged in their child’s education and making demands of their child’s school. Ibelieve it is really important that you know how your child is progressing academically and that we as teachers share their strengths and key points for development, in order to support them together to fulfill their potential.

“More frequent parents’ evenings will provide greater opportunity for parents and teachers to come together to talk through achild’sdevelopment and look at any areas that do need more focus and those that are real strengths and

areanintegral partofboosting achild’s confidence across theboard.”

The school will also now send a formal report home at the end of each term which will give an Attitude to Learning Grade and aTeacher Assessment Grade.

“I have been so impressed with the community Ihave seen in action throughout this first partofthe Christmas Term. Ihave also been hugely inspired by the parents’ survey which shows families who care very deeply for and are proud of this school while alsoeager to help drive forward change so it can build on what it is good at to be even better

“Together with my team, we are aiming for Old Hall to be aleading school both regionally and nationally in terms of academic standards andpathway programs in drama, sport and life skills.”

Mrs Karacan said thesurvey results and most recent changes had comeatthe end of abusyterm where children had really embraced her message of making the most of any opportunity open to them.

Anumberof sporting fixtures were held while youngsters also took centre stage at aseries of concerts featuring vocalists, pianists, andstring and wind instruments.

When Old Hall returned after the half-term holiday an ambitious firework extravaganza was planned for families themed around the animated musical Sing.

“Weare very much looking forward to the new term which will alsosee anumber of parents’ evenings held for upper school following successful evenings already held for the lower school,” added Mrs Karacan.

AN EYE ON THE FUTURE

Haberdashers’ Adams is aschool enriched with wonderful history.Itwas, for those unaware, founded by William Adams, amerchant Haberdasher with family connections in the area.

He established his school in Newport in 1656 during the Interregnum, with permission from Oliver Cromwell, and appointed the Master and Wardens of the Haberdashers’ Company as Governors. He left money and estates to the company to support the school.

It’s always important to have anod, a proud acknowledgement, of the past. On such history are impressive foundations built and Haberdashers’ Adams has long since been regarded regionally and nationally for its high academic standards.

But it’salso important to have an eye on the future, so the message of the school’s website is quite apt as it refers to ‘traditional values, modern approach’.

And that forward-thinking has, this year,seen the school take steps towards anew,positive and exciting era. Haberdashers’ Adams has announced its intentiontogofully co-educational.

It does, of course, already have aco-ed Sixth Form. But now aformal public consultation process is being launched with the aim of the new Admissions Policy being in place for the Entrance Test in September 2023 and with the first cohort arriving in September 2024.

“Weare very aware, as a400-year-old grammar school, there’s alot of tradition here,” says headteacher Gary Hickey.“But tradition can always evolveand every tradition has to start somewhere.

“It was 30 years ago that we first saw girls come into theSixth Form here

so, in many ways, we are already acoeducational school. We are just planning that all the way through the year groups now.It’s the next piece of evolution, which is important. It’s about getting the right balance. Keepingtradition is important and integral to the life of the school, but it’s also about realising things do change in society.”

He adds: “Weneed to reflect the society and the world we are in, such as equality and diversity.It’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify asingle-sex education. We have to takea tangible step.

“By continuing to provide the broad and varied curriculum we already do, but in aco-educational setting, all our children will learn to be more confident, resilient and compassionate young adults. We have many outstanding facilities for girls already in place for the Sixth Form and look forward to welcoming girls from September 2024.

Reaction so far to theplans has been positive from pupils and parents.

Mr Hickey added:“One of the questions raised was are we as aschool disadvantaging boys with this move? If we look at this in termsofrecent history then the answer has to be no. In 2004 the intake was 650,and we are now 1,075, which shows aneardoubling of capacity in a20-year period.

“Furthermore, if we reflect on the school development in recent years, with new teaching blocks, increase in thesize of the Sixth Form, and anew House, all have added capacity.Sothe impact on the opportunity for boys hastobetaken in both ahistorical and geographical context, as in terms of numbers our school is giving more boys agrammar school

opportunity now than it ever has.

“Ultimately though, if we want, as asociety,tostrive for gender equality, create adiverse and respectful community, encourage more girls into STEM subjects, and foster respect and tolerance across all sexes and genders, then surely the question isn’t why shouldn’t we be co-ed, it’s why aren’t we?”

And Charlotte Harman, Head of Sixth Form, who will oversee the integration of girls, adds: “Having girls in the Sixth Form has been ahuge success and we are looking forward to the new opportunities and perspectives that having girls throughout the school will bring to the school community.”

The move would, undoubtedly,mark another exciting era in the history of the school, with pupils and staff having come through thechallenges of the pandemic.

Atotal of 120 pupils at Haberdashers’ Adams sat their GCSEs this year and achieved an outstanding set of results 54% were of the highest grading of 8s and 9s, which under theold system is equivalent to getting an A*; 73% were in the 7-9 bracket (A -A*); and 89% were graded 9-6 (A*-B), takingthe overall pass rate to 99%. ForA-level results, atotal of 180 Sixth Form pupils at the school successfully completing theirA-levels, with 74% of pupils achieving A*- B graded A-levels and 51% A*- Agrades.

“The staff embracedthe challenges and the online learning aspect of the last two years, so quickly and enthusiastically,” adds Mr Hickey.“Such disturbance with exams could have been difficult, but our pupils rose to those challenges. It’s been a tough couple of years but we are looking to apositive future.”

Haberdashers’ Adams Headmaster Gary Hickey and Head of Sixth Form Charlotte Harman.

AMOVEAWAYFROMTHE ENTRANCE EXAMINATION

Birchfield School is moving away from aconventional11+ style entrance examination for Year 7upwards to its own unique Assessment Morning.

Sarah Morris, Headmistress at Birchfield School, says: “Many children can find the traditional 11+ format immensely stressful, andoften underperform in this environment as aresult. We find that assessing our prospective new pupils in amorerelaxed and less formal way,helps us to spot their true potential, enabling us to accept pupils that may not flourish in amore standard 11+ entrance exam.”

Albert Einstein is often credited with the famous quote: “Everybody is agenius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb atree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”

This is echoed in the ethos of Birchfield School, Sarah Morris says: “Webelieve that judging children in a narrow and limiting way can give you a false impression of their ability.Our way is different. We embrace the whole child and work with them, providing them with opportunities, time and space to explore different areas. This allows our children to spend time discovering where their talents lie.”

Birchfield School is set in the beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Albrighton. APrep School for 87 years, Birchfield School has recently extended its Senior School, to the delight of existing and prospective parents.

“Wehave had fantastic feedback since extending our Senior School, our current pupils are delighted to be able to stay at Birchfield School, and prospectiveparents are drawn to our small classes, rural setting and affordable fees.”

Furthermore, Birchfield School

pupils enjoy the security of an exciting new initiative offering students with five GCSE passes aguaranteed place at their sister school’s Sixth Form, St Dominic’s Grammar School.

If you are looking for aplacefor your son or daughter for September 2023, and feel that the traditional 11+ may not the best route for them, why not go along and see what Birchfield School hastooffer

Formore information contact Birchfield School on 01902 372534 or email marketing@birchfieldschool.co.uk

SOCIAL SCENE

POSH FROCKS CHARITYDINNER

Telford

Morethan 80 guests attended the Posh Frocks CharityDinner at Hadley Park House Hotel in Telford.

The event was raisingfunds for the Harry Johnson Trust which supports families with children having cancer treatment.

The amount raised on the night from raffling 30 hampers was made up to £2,000 with £400 match funding from Sarah Lowe and£280 from an anonymous company in Telford. On the night, £150 was also donated to Katie Foster,one of Alzheimer Research UK’sfundraising volunteers of the year

After an absence of two years, organiser Kim Gilmour said: “It was fabulous to be back and welcome old friends and new for adynamic evening. To date ourgroup has raisedover£33,000 for local charities over the last 20 years. ”

Photos: Jamie Ricketts

Chris Middleton, organiser Kim Gilmour, Carole Aveson, Lena Jarl Churn.

Karen Atkinson, TraceyWestbury.

Tessa Conway-Holland, Audrey Menhinick, Pam O’Caroll.

Jenny Clarke, ValLuke, Sam Lane, Julie Wiggin,Sarah Lowe

Brenda Hodnett, Patricia Hodnett, Sarah Hodnett.

Jenny Clarke, ValLuke.

Nicky Purcell, Margaret Chamberlain.

Zoe Slattery, Wendy Carpenter Yvonne Thomas, Maralyn Long.

ClaireJones, Liz Adkins, Sally Johnson (The Harry Johnson Trust)

Casey’sQueens–Sam Lane, Jo Tilsley, Fiona Barraclough, Nicola Casey, Carol Taylor,Sarah Barnes, Rachael Tyrrell.

Jodie Flynn, Jane Webber,Sylvia Middleton.

Julie Wiggin,Sarah Lowe

Rachel Best, Sarah Bass, Elaine North, Lynn Paddock, Jackie Duce, Sue Lay, VickyFisher,Shelagh Keane.

HALLOWEEN TOUR

Shrewsbury

Guests were takenback to the glory age of coaching inns and carriages during Tanners Halloween Tour

The event returned to Wyle Cop by popular demand saw visitors walk back in time to the Unicorn Inn.

They were guided by costumed storytellers, Alix and Jo, on ajourney through the past with tales of ghosts, sightings and the dark history of this ancient market town.

The Tanners team was dressed in full historical costume and guests were encouraged to do the same.

Guests enjoyedaglass of fizzonarrival, afull tour,tot of sloegin to wrap up.

Photos: Jamie Ricketts

Corinne Chidley, Graham Chidley.

Jo Evans, HowardHutchins.

Verity Jane, Caroline Howells.

Lucy Challinor,Elaine Chidley-Uttley, Sam Sullivan, Lexi Uttley.

Duncan Smith, Derick Cross.

Lorna Butler,Ian Butler.

MauraQuill, Elfrieda Edwards.

Dawn Williams, Maxine Cross.

Evie Hicks, Will Malcom.

TomManley, Graham Mason.

Kelly Tudor,John Wiles.

Angela Coles, Daniel Coles.

QUIZ NIGHT Shrewsbury

Participants put their general knowledge to the test at a quiz night organised by the The League of Friends of Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

The event, which was very well supported, was held at Radbrook Community Centre, Shrewsbury.

Morethan £1,200 was raised on the night and all the proceeds will be put towards funding hospital equipment at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

League of Friends organising secretary, Sue Hurdiss, said: “Quiz master Lucy kept everyone on their toes with awide selection of questions and the fundraising team prepared light refreshments.

“Weare always looking for new volunteers to join our fundraising committee or givea little time to help in one of our four hospital shops. If you areinterested then please contact Sue Hurdiss at the League of Friends office 0743261007 or email s.hurdiss@nhs.net”

Linda Savage, Alex Whittle, Chair of The League of Friends of Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Jane Preece.

Stephen Cooper,Gilly Cooper

Sue Skinner,Liz Trotman.

Noel Goff,Lucy Goff

Heather Ward,RichardWard.

Sue Groves, Judy Edwards.

SteveWebb, Chris Webb, Jane Archer,Sue Harris.

Photos: Jamie Ricketts

Liz Fyffe, Graeme Crump, Neil Fyffe, Cynthia Crump.

Alex Baxter,Nick Young, Rose Crocker,Carol Baxter,BarbraLeicester

Organiser Sian Morris, Alison Hilroyd, Chair of LoF Jane Preece, Kate Hasan.

David Morris, David Groves.

Sally Price, David Price.

SephoraCollection Wishing You Premium Beauty advent calendar, £69.99

FeelUnique has been rebranded –it’snow Sephora in the UK, and is coming in with not one, but two Advent calendars.

If you really wanted to splash out, you could spend £139 on Sephora’s main advent calendar,featuring 34 products worth over £700. However,if you wanted to treat yourself without going too far over your limit, the premium version is still ataste of luxury

Youcertainly get bang for your buck with this one, with 24 coveted beauty treats inside –all of which are full size, ranging from mascara to aquartz roller

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

ettyLittleThing beauty advent calendar 2022, £45 Manchester-based brand ettyLittleThing isn’t just about fashion, it’s also got an eye on world of beauty too. This Advent calendar is abrilliant introduction into the hair,makeup and skincare offerings you can get on the site.

Benefit Sincerely Yours, beauty advent calendar, £50.55 (was £59.50), Escentual

Want to look your best for the Christmas party season? Benefit’s Advent calendar will help you get ready for any festive shindigs, with 12 of its bestselling products ready to be unwrapped.

From mascaras to bronzers and brow pencils, it will be just the refresher your make-up bag needs.

In total, the products are worth £141, ranging from well-known names, such as Olaplex and Mario Badescu, to PLT’s own-brand make-up.

UNWRAP MAKE-UP, SKINCARE AND HAIR TREATS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER, FROM SOME OF THE BIGGEST BRANDS

AsChristmasedges periiloussly closer,we’ve got amajor r decision to make: whhich h Advent calendar should we choose this year?

And while you can’t go wrong with aclassicchocolate calendar,beauty buffs ouut there know it’salso the perfect opportunity to try some new produccts.

Over the years, beauty Advent calendars have become biggger and b bettter, boasting top products and soomeseriously killer deals. However,you might t not wannt to shell out hundreds ofpounds s –evenif it is promising abargain.

Luckily,there are still plennty of options under £80ifyou still want a festive treat, without entirely blowing your budget…

mani month, £65 up your nail colour as regularly as you change this is theAdvent calendar for you. By the end month, you’ll have 23 minis and one full-sized polish experiment with, meaning you never have to havea boring

hardest part? Deciding which colour to painton first…

Clarins Men 12-day advent calendar,£57.20, Escentual

While the majority of beauty Advent calendars are aimed towards women (although, it should be noted –anyone and everyone can enjoy the products), there are afew specifically geared towards men. Take the Clarins calendar –while it won’tkeep you going for the whole of December (there are only 12 products to unwrap) –there’s still plenty of fun to be had, with afull-sizedface cream popping up against various cult products in miniature –including a hydration mask and ahand treatment.

Soap &Glory 24 Days To TreatYuleSelf advent calendar,£45, Boots

December can be ahectictime of year,but unwrapping anew treatfrom Soap &Glory be the calm you need to power through. The products are all about treating yourself –from body butters to lip masks, worth more than in total.

It will give you the perfect excusetocarve some me-time during party season.

River Island 24day beauty advent calendar,£50 (was £79)

The best thing about this Advent calendar is the sheer range of beauty products you’ll get to unveil throughout December.Whether it’s press-on nails, fake tan or mascara, there’s something here for everyone –plus, you’ll bag yourself £290 worth of products for just £50.

Holland &Barrett 25 Days of Conscious Beauty advent calendar,£55

If you’re aclean beauty fan wanting to get in on theYuletide fun, look no further than Holland &Barrett’s Advent calendar, dedicated to conscious beauty With over £180 worth of goodies inside, it features 14 full-size products –all from clean beauty brands, including Q+A and Ethique. Needless to say,everything inside is suitable for vegans.

Nuxe advent calendar,£65, Escentual

If winter has your skin feeling dry and lacklustre, the 24 treats in Nuxe’s Advent calendar will help restore your moisture and glow.Itfeatures miniatures from the brand’s popular Reve de Miel range –skincare formulated with the nourishing properties of honey –as well as other fan favourites, including gold-flecked oils and perfumes.

Animal print

From chunky faux fur jackets to chic leopard print coats, animal motifs everywhere this season –not thatt ever really go out of style.

Aleopardcoat is an excellent investment piece. Easy to style with denim, leather trousers and midi skirts as well as party outfits, you’ll wear yours for years to come.

Shearling

More versatile than a faux fur number, a fuzzy shearling or borg coat in cream, camel or navy is a great all rounder when temperatures drop Whether you ’ re living in joggers, hoodies and trainers right now or prefer a swishy Seventies look, a teddy coat will top off your winter look perfectly

WRAP UP IN STYLE

BY KATIE WRIGHT

Are you excited for coat season? After a relatively mild autumn, there hasn’t been much call for proper puffers, parkas and trenches

But that’s set to change as Christmas draws nearer

It’s great news for fashion lovers, because this season ’ s high street collections are full of catwalk inspired coats ready to refresh your look

Here are five fab trends to style with your winter wardrobe

£89

ks and Spencer ection coat,

Tanya beige teddy coat, £7920 (was £99), FatFace

Navy longline teddy coat, £65, Threadbare.

Rachel Stevens collared animal faux fur coat, £159; straight leg leather trouser,£199, Oasis.

Maxi length

Along with flowing skirts and gowns, maxi coats swept down the runways at Jil Sander, Altuzarra, Acne and more

The beauty of a loose, longline coat is you can throw it over just about anything For an on trend winter look, pair with wide leg jeans and chunky Chelsea boots

BAGTHE LATEST TREND

FROM BIKER BAGS TO GLITTERY CLUTCHES, THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE THIS SEASON

Ifyour idea of handbag heaven is u versatile staples with cool details, t season is for you. Forwinter,bag t are all about reimagining bold basi –styles youcan dress up or down. Thin biker bags, cute fuzzy clutches and supe shoppers. These are the key trends to know…

ltrathis trends ics nk ersized

River

Studded biker bags

MissPap

Large shoppers Fuzzy bags

Hush

Hermosa h hot pink velvet t tote bag, £95

Hush Alba bag in metallic blue, £65.

Reiss Charlotte chainmail clutch bag, £128, Next.

Nineties-inspired

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River Island redbouclé check shoulder bag, £30 (was £39).

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Morgan teddy bag, £89.

mini leather look studded chain grab bag, £20 (was £25), Debenhams.

Island black suede studded clutch bag, £30 (was £48)

London ‘Dorchester’ denim shoulder bag, £70, Debenhams.

Radley The Daily Radley large ziptop tote, £229

George Brownfurry tote, £20, Asda.

MARVELLOUS CHRISTMAS MARKETS

While lengthy queues in department stores can make Christmas shopping abore, traditionalmarkets have always been averydifferent story Weaving through wooden cabins, while sipping aglass of mulled wine, the experience is about much more than buying gifts.

From spinning around ice rinks to perusing nativity scenes in ahorse-drawn cart, these festive trips promise afun, thrilling and novel shopping experience.

Toulouse, France

November 25 to December 25

Krakow,Poland

November 25 to December 26

The pink city dazzles in a multitude of multi-coloured lights at Christmas, when the city’sannual market is held in Capitole Square. The town hall provides a backdrop for aChristmas village and chalets with more then 100 stallholders, selling local crafts, regional foods, pottery, jewellery, candles, clothing and leather goods. In between bouts of shopping, skate on a200sq metreice rink, and warm up with local dish aligot aveyronnais, acheeseand potato puree with garlic.

H The four-star Le Grand Balcon Hotel (grandbalconhotel. com) is located close to the Place du Capitole, and offers agreat breakfastbuffet with modern rooms. Doubles from £95per night with breakfast. Eurostar (eurostar.com) from London St Pancras to Toulouse Matabiau via Paris with oneway tickets available from £72.

Spread across the Rynek Glowny central square, Krakow’s Christmas market is the oldest in Poland. If you’venever tasted pierogi (a type of fried dumpling) before, this is the place to do it –along with sweet treats such as piernik gingerbreads. Clasp a mug of warming grzane (mulled wine) while browsing for handmade decorations and toys, then takeahorse-drawn carriage ride around the city to see the Krakow Szopki, a collection of miniaturenativity scenes displayed in windows.

H The Metropolitan Boutique Hotel (hotelmetropolitan. pl) occupies arenovated 19th century building, perfectly placed between the Old Town Square and the trendy Kazimierz district. Doubles from £53 per night with breakfast. WizzAir (wizzair.com) flies from London Luton to Krakow from £26.

Fuschl in Austria

Salzburg, Austria

Various dates in November and December

Multiple markets are held in villages on the shores of Wolfgangsee, in Austria’sLakeDistrict. In St Gilgen, the theme is Baroque-style art; in St Wolfgang there’safocus on lanterns; while Strobl takes great pride in its old-fashioned stalls with wooden roof tiles. To makethe trip areal Christmas cracker,headtoSalzburg’sfamousmarket, whichis less than an hour’sbus ride away. But savesome time to go snowshoeing, tobogganing or on horse-drawn sleigh rides.

H The four-star Hotel Seerose has charming views across LakeFuschl. Inntravel (inntravel. co.uk) offers three nights’ half boardfrom £585pp (two sharing) including flights and transfers.

Harking back to an historical eraofgrand banquets and elegant attire, Stratford’saward-winning Victorian-themed market provides visitors with an opportunity to feel likeacharacter in aCharles Dickens novel. Decked out in fine costumes, traders sell giftsand seasonal produce, while astage in Henley Street also hosts aprogramme of festiveperformances.

Anovelway to experience the event is on acanal boat, travelling on asix-hour cruise fromDrifters’ canal boat hire base on the StratfordCanal at WoottonWawen, to moorings in Bancroft Basin in the centreofStratfordupon Avon. All boats arefitted with hot water and stovestokeep warm.

H The 48ft Teddington narrowboat (sleeps four) is available for afour-dayweekend break for £572. Fuel charge is based on use, approximately £15-£20 per day. Visit drifters.co.uk

Lisbon, Portugal

November 18 to January 6

Stratford-on-Avon

December 8to11

It’snot the obvious choice for mistletoe and snowflakes, but Portugal’slivelycapital is idealfor afestive shopping break in milder temperatures. Wooden chaletsare dotted around Rossio Squareselling giftsand Portuguese seasonal treats, including salt cod, rabanadas (similar to French toast), porco preto (black pig) sandwiches, dried fruit and mulled wine. AChristmas train provides entertainment for kids, although even bigger rides can be found at Wonderland Lisboa in Parque Eduardo VII, which features aFerris wheel, ice rink, carousel and trampolines, as well as stalls selling handicrafts, jewellery and local produce.

H Find AvaniAvenida Liberdade (avanihotels.com/en/lisbon) on Lisbon’s main shopping street, within walking distance of both fairs. Doubles from £82 per night with breakfast. Guests can also use the rooftop sky bar at sister hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade next door,which offersgreat views of Lisbon. Flights with easyjet (easyjet.com) from Gatwick start from around £66 one way.

Christmas Market at Wolfgangsee in Austria.

Scenic Isles of Scotland

26th June 2023

8Nights

All Inclusive

Cabin Types(Based on two people sharing)

Interior Rooms(Grade I) - £1569 Per Person

Ocean View (Grade E) £1788 Per Person

SuperiorOcean View (Grade B) £2144 Per Person

Single Ocean View (GradeK)- £3236 Per Person

Scenic

Irish Isles &Cities of Ireland

27th July 2023

8Nights

All Inclusive

Cabin Types (Based on two people sharing)

Interior Rooms (Grade I) - £1529 Per Person

Ocean View (Grade E) £1789 Per Person

Superior Ocean View (Grade B) £2234 Per Person

Single Ocean View (GradeK)- £3236 Per Person

Bank Holiday Escapes to Scenic

Scotland

26th August 2023

5Nights

All Inclusive

Cabin Types(Based on two people sharing)

Interior Rooms(Grade I) £859 Per Person

Ocean View (Grade E) £992 Per Person

Superior Ocean View(Grade B) £1289 Per Person

Single Ocean View (Grade K) £1919 Per Person

Borealis, has capacity for less than 1,400 guests but is largerinoverall size than the other vessels in the Fred. Olsen fleet.

This means when you come on boardfor amemorable cruise holiday, to relax and enjoy apremium level of comfort –aswell as Fred. Olsen’s renowned personal service –inthe elegant public areas, lounges, bars and dining venues,you have even more space in which to do so.

With its warm,welcoming atmosphere and timeless style, and classic open deck spaces providing aplace to fully immerse yourself in the magic of ocean cruising, Borealis is very muchin keeping with what guests have come to expect from a Fred. Olsen ship.

SET SAIL ON ITALY’S AMALFI COAST

The Star Clipper and sister ship Star Flyer

It’s 11pm on aclear,starlit night just off the coast of Amalfi,and the 115-metre Star Clipper is creaking with what you imagine could be anticipation. Captain Dominique Rollin is pacing the deck with anexpression of extreme concentration. The crew are hoisting the sales high above us,metres upon metres of canvas straining and flapping in the stiff breeze and then, we hear it. Conquest of Paradise by Vangelis starts blasting fromthe ship’s speakers. “Sailaway”time has arrived.

We have joined the ship to experience afresh view of one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines, excited by the Star Clipper line’s dedication to sail over engine whenever the winds allow

Tonight has offered up the perfect conditions, the twinkling lights of Amalfi slowly fading into the distance as the graceful tall ship takes on agentleleanas the sails take over,the silence broken only by the sounds of creaking wood and the occasional flapping of canvas.

Our course will take us from a sun-soaked day in Amalfi,eating lobster

linguine at the edge of the hill topHotel Caruso’s famous infinity pool, along the coast to Sorrento, stopping off at the islands of Capri and Ponza, before arriving in the port of Rome Civitavecchia.

Styled on the tea clippers of the 19th century,our four-masted barquentine has afull 16 sailsather disposal should conditions allow.She and her two tall ship sisters, the Royal Clipper and Star Flyer, offer agenuine sailing experience that bears little –ifany –resemblancetothe cruise behemoths that disgorgethousands of passengers at theworld’s busiest tourist destinations.

There were barely 150 other passengers on our sailing –Star Clipper carries up to 166 guests –united by the belief that the “the best way to travel is to sail” and lured by the promiseof a “uniqueadventure, combining the romance and nautical heritage of a traditional clipper ship, with the relaxation and sophistication of sailing aboard a modern-day private mega-yacht”.

The ships have an open bridge policy while sailing, allowing guests to discuss navigation techniques and learn about the instruments with the genial crew,take the wheel and help haul ropes.

The whole atmosphere would be entirely relaxed if it weren’t so thrilling, the Tropical Bar supplying rum to passengers who chat under the tall sails with the crew for acoupleof hours, before heading down for the night, lulled off to sleep by the gentle sway of the ship, as it makes its way silently to Sorrento.

We awake next morning to find ourselves anchored off Sorrento with plans to hop over to Capri after breakfast. The wind has picked up and conditions are choppy,meaning climbing into the ship’s tenders is not for the faint-hearted. Some passengers opt to stay on board but

those prepared to take the leap –literally, with the help of the crew –are rewarded with aday of sightseeing and shopping However,those who remain on board can listen to the captain giving talks on sailing ships and techniques, or join knot-tying sessions, deck-top yoga and fitness sessions. The sports crew offers the chance to try complimentary kayaking, sailing and paddle boarding.

Expansive teak decks offer two small swimming pools filled with sea water, while the décor is reminiscent of the grand age of sail –all gleamingmahogany rails and brass andpaintings of racing ships.

An open-seating dining room allows guests to socialisetogether as the cruise goes on, while the indoor-outdoor bar and Edwardian-style library offers plenty of options for inclement weather or simple quiet time.

But as thenightfalls and the ship lights up, everyone safely back on board, it’s time to eat, drink and partake in the much-anticipated passengers and crew talent show.A world away from the slick productions seen on the biggest cruise lines, this one has thecrew showing off their best magic tricks and musical numbers, culminating with an all-singing and dancing rendition of PSY’s Gangnam Style to much hilarity.Then the guests find their sea legs for adisco on the deck, now at adistinctly jaunty angle thanks to us having set sail.

It is possible to find aquiet spot on the top deck, where all is calm, and Ilisten

to the ship as she slices through the waves. It’s so peaceful that one guest asks the captain if we’re actually moving, to which he replies: “Of course we’re moving. Six knots! She is not arocket!”

Overnight, we travel 68.4 nautical miles to Ponza, the tiny but largest island of the ItalianPontine Islands archipelago, just in time for thesun to return.

The fishing village is apopular summer holiday destination for Italians, as Rome and Naples are only ashort drive and ferry ride away.Known as ‘Capri without thetourists’, it is characterized by steep white cliffs and crystalline water With apopulation of around 3,500, Ponza remains fairly quiet for most of the year and maintainsa small-town atmosphere.

We take afew hours to relax off the ship before heading back in time for sailaway at 3pm. The wind has picked up and, as it’sthe last full day of the cruise, the word goes out that thecaptain will allow guests to take to the tenders to photograph Star Clipper under full sail.

Armed with our cameras, we watch the extraordinarysightof thecrew hoisting all 16 sails up the ship’s four masts. The wind by now is presenting ideal sailing conditions, the anchor comes up and she’s off,picking up speed and keeling gently into the wind.

She is slowed to allow us back safely on board, where the gusty wind and warm sun make way for aglorious sunset.

Guests are encouraged to lie in the bowsprit net suspended above the sea and try to spot dolphins and to climb the 32 rungs to the crow’s nest,secured by a safety harness, although thewindbynow is so briskthat we miss the opportunity

Not that it matters, as theexperience of sitting on the deck as the sun goes down, nothing butthe soundofthe wind andthe sails and the gulls overhead to interrupt the endless expanse of blue sea ahead, is exciting enough.

Rum punch in hand, Istay on deck until dark with the wind blowing in my face, absorbing the beauty of tall ship travel, anewly-converted sailing enthusiast.

FACTFILE

Aseven-nightRome round-triponStar Clipper costsfrom£1,632pp(twosharing). Multiple departure datesfromMay October2023.Price includes 10%Early BookingDiscount, validonbookings made untilJanuary 31,2023.Visit starclippers. co.ukorcall0845200 6145

CLOCKWISE FROM TOPLEFT: Josie Clarkeonthe Star Clipper cruise; boats moored off the coast of Capri island; houses in Ponza; the bar on the Star Clipper; Star Clipper cabin; beautiful Amalfi town; the library on the Star Clipper

BENTLEYBUILDSON LUXURYHYBRIDS

JACK EVANS TAKESTHE BENTLEY FLYING SPUR HYBRID FOR ATEST DRIVE

Bentley and big engines have a history that goesback decades. Even today,Bentley’s V8 and W12 engines form akey part of its engine range, delivering that luxurious performance many buyers are after

But even Bentley has to acknowledge the future of motoring is electrification, which is why the Crewe outfitis continuing to explore alternatives.

Following in the wake of the Bentayga Hybrid comes the Flying Spur Hybrid

–aversion of Bentley’s luxury saloon outfitted with afuel-sipping petrolelectric set-up. But canitdeliver thekind of sumptuous experience Flying Spur customers are traditionally after?

From the outside at least, this Flying Spur gives away very little about its hybrid underpinnings. Sure, there are some small ‘Hybrid’ badges on the flanks, but it’s acar that doesn’t shout loudly about its electrical assistance. Inside, you’ve got the same ultra-luxurious cabin as you’d

find on the regular Spur,albeit with afew hybrid-specificdriving mode buttons.

The Flying Spur,despite itsswitch in powertrain, still has a firm focus on comfort and refinement. This new Hybrid version, it should be mentioned, doesn’t replace existing petrol-powered versions but acts as an addition to the range for now

With its promise of being the‘most environmentally friendly Bentley to date’, the Flying Spur comes complete with a2.9-litre V6 petrol engine, which is then linked to 100kW electric motor Combined, you get 536bhp and 750Nm of torque, with zero to 60mph taking 4.1 seconds and atop speed of 177mph possible if you have the spaceand ability to do so.

But thanks to an 18kWh battery,the Flying Spur Hybrid will also manage over 25 miles on electric power alone –and after afullcharge(which takes twoand-a-half hours on arapid charger), we saw around 30 miles in the electric tank. Bentley also claims up to 85.6mpg combined and impressively low CO2 emissions of 75g/km.

The ability to driveonelectric power alone only elevates the quiet experience you get from the Flying Spur.Itcan be

used at motorway speeds too, but we found the EV power was best saved for around town, where it makes the Flying Spur even more relaxing to drive.

But this hybrid engine definitely isn’t lacking in performance. In fact, with that battery fully topped up, there’s some real zip away from the line, with the petrol engine chiming in when more performance is required. But it’s all extremely well calibrated together –there’s very little to showcase the transition from electric to petrol power –and once the electric energy is fully depleted, you’re still left with avery refined V6 engine.

As mentioned, there’s not an awful lot to distinguish the Hybrid from the rest of the Flying Spur range. You’ve got an extra filler cap to cover the charging point, of course, while oval exhaust pipes are another tell-tale feature of these battery assisted versions. But, in truth, this approach works well for the Flying Spur

The only real flag came from pedestrians, who look at this more than five-metre-long saloon and wonder why it’s moving without making any noise.

Our test car cameinaparticularly striking green shade with contrastorange sections, though as with any Bentley,

there are loads of exterior coloursand trim pieces to choose from.

The cabin remains as exquisitely fashioned as you’d expect acar from this brand to be. There aresome clear aspects that come from Bentley’s Volkswagen Group owners –the steering wheel buttons being the most noticeable –but everything is well fitted together and easy to access. Those sitting in the rear can enjoy loads of legroom too, alongside independent seat adjustment controlsand motorised fold-out tables.

In terms of boot space, the Flying Spur Hybrid offers 351 litres. That’s considerably down on the 420 litres you’d get in thepetrol-powered Spur and much of the Hybrid’s boot is taken up by the charging cables. Having said that, you’re most likely to leave thelarge three-pin connector at home rather than carting it around with you, so this does free up more luggage space.

Our particular Flying Spur Hybrid came in at £168,300, accompanied by that aforementioned British Racing Green paintwork alongside 22-inch wheels and adual-tone cabin finished in tan and exterior-mirroring green leather Some options had been added, including Bentley’s rotating display which, though

awfully secret spy-esque, comes with a £4,865 price-tag.

The level of fit-and-finish you get feels more than up to thestandard you’d expect from acar this price, with the quality of screens and displays right up there with some of the best around

The Flying Spur Hybrid is areally compelling example of why the future doesn’t have to be bleak for big-engined Bentleys. It’s got the kind of performance that you’d expect from acar of this type, while its ability to travel on electric-only power means that therefinement levels are taken up anotch over the petrol version.

It’s ashame that this transition in powertrain has dented boot space, but in all other areas this is one impressive plugin hybrid.

STARSOUT FORFESTIVE SEASON

BY HEATHER LARGE

The Christmas season is almost upon us once again. Around the county,there will be plenty of eye-catching displays of lights and decorations.

Alot of effort goes into making sure towns and centres are lit up for the festive season. In 1975,Bill Doody had the important job of preparing the bulbs for the Christmas tree in the gardens at All Saints Parish Church in Wellington.

It’s also the season of goodwill which was demonstrated in 1957 when acheque for £40 was presented to Wrekin Hospital, Wellington, for patients who would be spending Christmas in hospital.

Pantomimes and Christmas carols have long been ahighlight of this time of year and in 1955, nurses from the Royal Salop Infirmary were busy touringwards at Copthorne Hospital and the R.S.I. singing carols after their shifts

As temperatures dip, snowand ice can be acommon occurrence during the festive season and in 1961, young boys were raising smiles as they tried out their ice skating skills on afrozen lake in Harlescott, Shrewsbury

AMerry Christmas, Jim... that was the message on this 30lb turkey delivered to 10 Downing Street by Mr Basil Wood,adirector of South Shropshire’sChukie poultryfirm, and his wife Barbara. After the presentation, on behalf of the British Turkey Federation, Mr Wood and his wife had lunch with Mr Jasper More, MP for Ludlow.

It’sover, for12months at least, as postman Les Jones of Madeley relaxes with acup of tea at Wellington Drill Hall which was used as atemporary clearing house during the Christmas mail rush in December 1964.

Bill Doody preparing the bulbs for the Christmas tree at Wellington All Saints Parish Church gardens in December,1975.

Wellington Christmas lights in December,1965.

Pantomime on Ice produced by local boys at Harlescott, Shrewsbury, in December,1961.

Members

Nurses at at the Royal Salop Infirmary, Shrewsbury, used

go round the wards singing

Sister Beryl Hughes is on the left.This was Christmas Evein1955. The pictureisfromthe collection of Brian Bennett, of Hanwood. He was chairman of the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Nurses League and also the editor of its journal.

The day after the gala charity premiereofAChristmas Carolatthe Empirecinema, Shrewsbury, on December 7, 1984. One of the stars, EdwardWoodward, went shopping in Shrewsbury and was besieged by autograph hunters.

Filming of AChristmas Carol in Shrewsbury in March 1984. The star of the film, George C. Scott, is shown on the right.

Entertainer Hughie Green at the Granada theatre in Shrewsbury in January 1969 with members of harmony group The Dee Jays: Rod Hollaway, Bryan Jones, George Silcock, Larry Tenchand Dave Craik.

of the Women’s Voluntary Service present acheque for £40 at Wrekin Hospital, Wellington, in December 1957. Leader,Mrs MMiles (left)presents the cheque to Matron Irene Braithwaite. Also in the group areMrs HButtrey and Mrs EMPreedy.

to

Christmas carols.

The‘inflation’trapfordivorcees

ItisnowwellknownthattheU.K isina‘costofliving’crisiswhere pricesaregenerallyoutpacingwage growth,withBritainfacingitshighest inflationratefordecades.Prices ofeverydaynecessitiesarerising, fromenergycoststofood,and,asa result,householdbudgetsarebeing significantlystretched.Accordingly, divorcees/parentsshouldbeaware ofthepotential‘inflationtrap’that theymightfindthemselvesinandthe unintendedconsequencesfor theunwary

Thecourthasawiderangeofpowers tomakeordersinrespectofassets, pensionsandincomeinorderto resolvefinancialclaimsondivorceor dissolution(forcivilpartners).One suchorderaddressingincomeclaims isaspousalmaintenanceorder,known as‘periodicalpayments,’wherebyone partypaysaregularamount,ordinarily amonthlypaymentforaspecified term,tomeetashortfallinmeeting reasonableoutgoings.

Maintenanceordersareoftenbased ontheprojectedreasonableincome needsofthereceivingspouse/civil partneraswellastheneedsofany minorchildren.Provisioncanbemade formaintenancepaymentstobelinked toanindexationprovision,typically theRetailPriceIndexortheConsumer PriceIndex(whichdoesn’taccount forrisinghouseandmortgageinterest costs)toensuremaintenancewill

alsoincreaseinlinewithchangesin inflationrates.

However,incircumstanceswhere maintenancepaymentsarenot index-linked,thereceivingspouse/ civilpartnercanfindtheirincome isnotenoughtomeettherising costsofliving.Thereisanoption toseektovaryanorderforspousal maintenancetoensurepayments areindexlinkedandavoidafuture shortfall.Anagreementtovarycan bereachedeitherdirectlybetween partiesorviasolicitors,ifnecessary. TherearealsoAlternativeDispute Resolutionmethodsavailablesuchas mediation.Ifanagreementisreached, anapplicationshouldbemadetothe courttovarytheorderbyconsent.In theabsenceofanagreement,thecourt canbeaskedtomakeadecisionand imposeanorder

Equally,thepayingpartymayfindthat theyareunabletomakepaymentsin linewithanexistingorderbecause oftheirownrisingoutgoingsorlack ofincreaseinincomethatmaynot beinlinewithinflation.Inthose circumstances,itisadvisablethatan agreementtoreduceissoughtwith thereceivingpartybeforemaking unilateralchangestomaintenance payments.Again,ifanagreement cannotbereached,anapplication canbemadetothecourttodecide theissueandwhetheradownward variationisjustified

Parentsoftenhaveagreementsor ordersforchildmaintenance.Again, similarconsiderationsapply.

Itisrecommendedthatlegaladvice issoughteitherbeforeorduringany negotiationstovaryamaintenance orderandbeforeanapplicationis madetothecourttoassessthemerits ofsuchanapplication.Ifyouwould liketodiscussamaintenanceissue,or mattersrelatingtodivorcegenerally, pleasecontactKatieHughes-Beddows, AssociateSolicitoratAaron&Partners forfurtheradviceandassistance. AssociateFamilyLawSolicitor

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An entrepreneur,I was born in Colorado in 1916. In the 1970s Ideveloped aprosthetic for breast cancer sufferers who had had mastectomies. My husband was aco-founder of the children’s toy manufacturer Mattel, and Iwas the inventor of the best-selling Barbie and Kendolls, which Inamed after my two children.

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Money returned to thesouthfor implements (5)

Measure apaved area (4)

Asinger,Iwas born in Texasin 1982. Ionce worked as an extra on the hit children’s show Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Iwon the firstseries of American Idol, and my first single sold nearly 240,000 copiesinone week. My subsequent hits have included Miss Independent and SinceU Been Gone.

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Bill had been writing at the tablenear the window.“I think 26 is our lucky number,Dad,” he said. “Your age when you and Mother were married, and it’s the number of our house.”

“Fair enough,” replied Mike. “But what else?”

The boy grinned. “Just anumber Ifound. It’s amultiple of 26 and its figures add up to 26, and it’s thesmallest number that works that way.”

What was hisnumber?

“All that in the money-box already?” asked Andy, looking at the heap of cash. “It must be about ten pounds, all in fifties and two pence pieces.”

Peter grinned. “Nearly that, Dad,” he replied. “But if a third of the fifties had been pennies, and aquarter of the two pences ten pennies, there would have been just 37p less.”

The boy was right, so how much was there?

Patrick put down his pen. “What about this?” he asked. “I’m half as old as you’ll be in five years’ time.” “So what?” replied Ann. “I’m three times as old as you were five years ago.”

How old was she?

Steve was standing at the window.“Ithink I’ll make the tiled patio abit bigger,” he said. “We’ve still got alot of those square tiles.”

“A good idea.” Mary smiled. “So they’ll all be the same size. How much bigger?”

Steve thought amoment. “Say 43 extratiles,” he told her “It’ll still be square.”

There were no gaps in thetiled surface. How many tiles did it contain originally?

DECEMBER

1Booka bookshop in Oswestry will host aliterary talk by Sebastian Payne entitled The Fall of Boris Johnson.

The talk is the fascinating full account of howaprime minister lost his grip on power

Sebastian Payne, Whitehall Editor for the Financial Times, tells the essential behind-the-scenes story,chartingthe series of scandals that felled Johnson, from the blocked suspension of Owen P Paterson to Partygate and, finally,the C Chris Pincher allegations, which were the final l death blow

T This is the full narrative of the betrayaals, rivalries and resignations that led d to thedramatic Conservative coup. W Withunparalleled access to those w whowere in the room when key decisionnsweremade, Payne tells of the miscallculations andmistakes that led to Boris’s d downfall, only two years after he first enntered No.10 Downing Street.

T This is agripping and timely look at how poower is gained, wielded and lost in Britaain today

Tickets £8, or £22 with abook. For dettails visit www.bookabookshop.co.uk

1The Oteley Estate, on the shores of the mere in Ellesmere, is holding a C Christmas Winter Market.

Following on from asuccessful event in 2021, the market is free to attend and will be held in the original stable yard. Local businesses will be selling a mixture of gifts, food, anddrink products so visitors can enjoy stocking up on Christmas gifts and produce.

Clare Mainwaring, from the family

business, says: “Last year,our Christmas market was so well received –wewere so pleased to play host to visitors getting in the festive spirit!

“Our Stable Yard will be transformed with twinkling Christmas lights, Christmas music courtesyof some local carol singers, and the warming aroma of mulled wine. We might even be having a visit from Father Christmas himself

“We’ll be running alicensed bar,as well as selling warming local refreshments from our Oteley Pop-Up Shop &Café. We’ll also be selling our home-grown meat boxes of beef,lamb and pork. It’s agreat opportunity to pick up on some Christmas gifts, fill up on festive spirit and support local businesses.”

The market is free to attend and will be open from 3pm until 8pm. Parking will be limited on Oteley Estate, but there will be ashuttle bus service that picks up in Ellesmere to the estate.

Formore information about the event and to purchase Oteley’s meat boxes visit www.oteley.com

1-4

Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton, introduces its Christmas panto Aladdin.

Join The Big Tiny for their fourth smash-hit show at the centre. Expect stupendous production values and a side-splitting script –reasons why Market Drayton’s panto has become known as ‘the best little pantomime in the country’.

Tickets cost £15. Formore details go to www.festivaldraytoncentre.com/ whatson/liveevents

2-23

The Nutcracker and the Fairy comes to West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury

Enjoy amagical walk-through journey filled with wonderment, spells and Christmas cheer.Join the ultimate personalised Christmas adventure where the kids get to go on aChristmas Adventure with Nutty theNutcracker and the Fairy

This unique Christmas adventure will see children mesmerised as they meet the characters along the way who will take them through this magicaljourney to Lapland where they will meet Santa.

This interactive experience has been designed by parents Emma and Oli Jones, the creators of Camp Severn Kids Festival. It aims to see eachchild leave having been blown away by what they have just seen. The experience is ticket-only,with adedicated time slot. Each child will get agift from Santa’s workshop to make the experience even more enchanting. This is aChristmas event like no other

Under 1s are free of charge but if you wish for an under 1toreceive agift then please purchase achild’s ticket.

Tickets £12.50. Formore details go to www.kids-events.co.uk

3Haydn’s Harmoniemesse and music for Advent for Christmas comes from Shropshire’s PremierChoir,the Phoenix Singers.

The iconic St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury,is the venue fora concert at 7.30pm by the Phoenix Singers and will be the last time they will be conducted by their musical director Richard Walker

Financial Times Whitehall editor Sebastian Payne will be holding atalkentitled The Fall of Boris Johnson at Booka Bookshop in Oswestry; The Oteley Estate, on the shores of Ellesmere, will host aChristmas market on December 1.

The evening’s concertwill feature Haydn’s Harmoniemesse and there will be music for Advent and Christmas.

Written in 1802, Harmoniemesse in B-flat major was Haydn’s last major work.

The Phoenix Singers will be accompanied by the Phoenix Orchestra led by Clare Horgan; and soloists soprano Hannah Fraser-Mackenzie; contralto Lara Rebekah Harvey,tenor Philip O’Connor, and bass Andrew Randall.

Chairman of the Phoenix Singers, Bob Millington says: “This is going to be awonderful evening of sublime music that will make for avery enjoyable experience for the audience. However,it is tinged with sadness because this is the last concert that RichardWalker will be leading us as our Conductor and Director of Music. He is retiring from this position after 12 very successful seasons but I’m sure we won’t have seen the lastofaman that has been such adriving forceonthe musical front –not just for the Phoenix Singers but in Shropshire generally So we are enjoying this last term of his well-planned and paced rehearsal sessions which have always resulted in successful concerts and Iknow thechoir is looking forward to an enjoyable concert, led by him.”

Conductor Richard Walker says: “The Phoenix Singers are on top form at the moment, and looking forward very much to singing one of Haydn’s very best works. The audience will love it. As acontrast we are offering some carols by Carl Rütti, which are often heard on the Christmas Eve Nine Lessons Service broadcast from King’s College, Cambridge. Agood way

to startthe ChristmasSeason!”

Tickets for the concert arepriced £15 for adults with under-18s free. Tickets can be purchased online from www phoenixsingersshrewsbury.co.uk or from The Hive, 5Belmont Street, Shrewsbury Tel: 01743 234970. Youcan also telephone 01743 357398 or buy tickets on the door

3Ludlow Choral Society will present works by Ralph Vaughan Williams at Ludlow Assembly Rooms as part of the celebrations of 150 years since his birth. Including Dona Nobils Pacem, Five Mystical Songs and shorter works, it promises to be anighttoremember See www.ludlowchoral.org.uk for more details, or https://ludlowassemblyrooms. co.uk/event/ludlow-choral-society-ralphvaughan-williams/

Dec8-Jan2

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs comes to Telford’s Oakengates Theatre.

Starring EastEnder and Dancing On Ice winner Sam Attwater as The Prince, back by popular demand the hilarious Ian Smith as Dame Dolly,comedy star Carl Dutfield as Muddles, local favourite Chloe Barlow as Snow White, 90s pop star ‘Lolly’, Anna Kumble as The Wicked Queen, and singing sensation Sophie Jane Walters as Fairy Fortune, it’s time for panto.

Snow White and her seven little friends from the enchanted forest attempt to defeat the evil Wicked Queen, who is overcome with jealousy when her magic mirror declares that Snow White is the

fairest in all the land. Will Snow White meet her handsome Prince and live happily ever after? There’s only one way to find out...

Expect asuperb cast, beautiful scennery, colourful costumes, amazing special effects and lots and lots of laughs.

Tickets £18-£24. Visit www telfordtheatre.com for more details.

The Phoenix Singers present Haydn’s Harmoniemesse St Chad’sChurch, Shrewsbury, on December 3; celebrate the works of Ralph Vaughan Williams at LudlowAssemblyRooms.

EastEnders star Sam Attwater will staar as The Prince in Oakengates Theatreproducttion of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs from D Deceember 8.

10-Jan3Once again Shrewsbury’s civic church will be ablaze with twinkling lights when ahost of beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas trees fill St Chad’sfor the opening of its annual Christmas Tree Festival.There will also be an ongoing programme of Christmas music, song and dance. Admission is free.

The trees are sponsored by the generosity of local businesses, charities and community organisations and St Chad’s is welcoming them backto sponsor atreeatits ninth festivalonce again. People interested in sponsorship should contact info@stchadsshrewsbury com or call 01743 365478.

Past Christmas Tree festivals have successfully featured charities and community organisations, all of which are featured on the special Christmas Tree Festivalwebsite at www christmastreefestival.org

12

The League of Friends of the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital is holding aChristmas Coffee Morning from 10am til 12pm at Prestfelde School, London Road, Shrewsbury.

The £5 admission include tea/coffee and homemade mince pies. There will be plenty of stalls, including home baking, gifts, tombola and lots more.

14-17

Be enchanted at Santa’s Grotto at The British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry

The British Ironwork Centre is getting excited for Christmas. Tickets are now available for this year’s Santa’s Grotto. At only £4 per adult and £12.50 for children, kids can meet Father Christmas and Mrs Claus, explore the magical icecave, as well as visitingthe elves in the workshop to pick up agift.

It’s not just about the children though. Mums and dads will be offered mulled wine and mince pies as afestivenaughty treat. Formore details visit www.facebook. com/TheBritishIronworkCentre/

16-18

Relive the music of The Rolling Stones at Bridgnorth’s Theatre-on-the-Steps this month.

With all theenergy and charisma of The Rolling Stones themselves, The Stones pay an accurate and faithful tribute to the sound and look of The Rolling Stones. The Stones are the UK’s No.1 and most authentic tribute acttoThe Rolling Stones.

Performing hits such as ‘Satisfaction’, Start Me Up’, Honky Tonk Woman’ and Jumpin’ Jack Flash’, thetribute band pays tribute to one of theworld’s greatest rock and roll band. Complete with authentic vintage instruments, costume and mannerisms, The Stones are experienced musicians in their own right,performing to over 30,000 people while headlining festivals.

Tickets cost £18. Formore information visit www.theatreonthesteps. co.uk/product/stones

REMEMBER WHEN: 1.1988. 2.1947. 3.1952. 4.1997. 5.1972. 6.1985.

FOUR Ws: 1.Henry VIII;Aswan; Yugoslavia;19th. 2.Thomas Keneally; Choreography; India; 1830. 3.Millard Fillmore; Black; Cape Town; 1955. 4.Agrippina the Younger; Music hall; Kent; 1905. 5.Princess Charlotte of Wales; Matter and radiation; Plymouth; 1964. 6.Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar; A battleship; Poland; 1471.

WORDWISE: 1.C 2.A 3.A 4.B 5.C 6.B

CROSSWORD: QUICK SOLUTIONS: Across: 1 Dual; 3 Apparent; 9 Stammer; 10 Debar; 11 Insurrection; 13 Chivvy; 15 Roller; 17 Condensation; 20 Laden; 21 All-wise; 22 Portents; 23 Stay Down: 1 Distinct; 2 Amass; 4 Purvey; 5 Additionally; 6 Embroil; 7 Tart; 8 Improvidence; 12 Princely; 14 In order; 16 Intact; 18 Idiot; 19 Clap.

CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS: Across: 1 Pips; 3 Contests; 9 Serious; 10 Exams; 11 Disagreement; 13 Tablet; 15 Amoral; 17 United States; 20 Alien; 21 Earlobe; 22 Disperse; 23 Isis.

Down: 1 Postdate; 2 Paris; 4 Ousted; 5 Thermometers; 6 Spanner; 7 So-so; 8 Long sentence; 12 Plasters; 14 Bandits; 16 Adders; 18 Tools; 19 Yard.

WHAT’S MY NAME?: 1.Hunter SThompson. 2.Margot Kidder 3.Ruth Handler 4.Kelly Clarkson. 5.Mohamed Al-Fayed. WORDSPIRAL 1: 1.Dial 2.Lung 3.Gain 4.Noel 5.Lash 6.Heat 7.Team 8.Milk 9.Keep 10.Peso 11.Oust 12.Tent 13.Twig 14.Gift 15.Tiff 16.Fell. Key word solution: MILLION WORDSPIRAL 2: 1.Turf 2.Fawn 3.Neon 4.Nose 5.Edam 6.Miss 7.Star 8.Riot 9.Tact 10.Trio 11.Oxen 12.Nods 13.Soup 14.Plea 15.Atop 16.Push. Keyword solution: RUSHTON WORDSPIRAL 3: 1.Hiss 2.Slam 3.Mock 4.Kerb 5.Baby 6.Yard 7.Drab 8.Barn 9.Norm 10.Memo 11.Obey 12.Yarn 13.Near 14.Rise 15.Ekes 16.Song. Key word solution: BANGKOK

IMPOSSIPUZZLES: 1.Bill’snumber was 1898 2.£9.58: 15 at 50p, 104 at 2p. 3.Ann was 15 years old. 4.441 tiles in patio.

The annual Christmas Tree Festival at St Chad’sChurch, Shrewsbury.