Cheltenham by The Local Answer

The Local

Cheltenham

ANSWER

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MAY 2015

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The Local

ANSWER

Cheltenham – 43,000 copies Cotswolds – 28,000 copies Forest of Dean – 22,000 copies Gloucestershire North – 20,000 copies Gloucestershire South – 45,000 copies Gloucester – 42,000 copies

James Butler Publication Manager – Cheltenham

01242 541072 james@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Editorial Lois Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Helen Kingscott editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk

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1 Ullenwood Court, Ullenwood, Gloucestershire GL53 9QS

01242 510500 thelocalanswer

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Welcome to May ... ... and welcome to our first ever 100-page issue of The Local Answer. A big thank you to all advertisers, readers and writers for helping us get to this stage! Summer is nearly here and many of us will be struggling to achieve our ‘beach bodies’. Look inside for gyms, sports, clubs and the ‘Looking Good, Feeling Great’ article, which could all help give you that kick start to reach optimum health and fitness. This month’s ‘Save the Planet’ article is all about getting outside. So, whether that’s following Julia Smith’s gardening tips, testing out the latest garden gadgets or attending one of the many events in our What’s On section, enjoy the sunshine while it lasts! If you’ve popped the question recently or just fancy getting away with your mates, our ‘Holidays & Travel’ article has some great tips on how to make the most of Vegas! And for the bridesto-be, our ‘Style & Fashion’ article has all the latest dress trends for you to ponder over while your man is away. We’ve got some brilliant competition prizes including a top of the range Pond Kit, ‘Bjorn Again’ tickets and £300 worth of beer. For those of you attending the Gloucestershire Business Show on 13th and 14th May, come and meet the team at our stand – we look forward to seeing you!

Inside this month... Wild Food Foraging Food & Drink Delicious Dishes Pet Care Holidays & Travel Cocktail Time Health, Beauty & Care Looking Good, Feeling Great Style & Fashion Mirror Mirror on the Wall Parenting & Guardianship Care & Mobility What’s On Picture Perfect

4 4 5 9 11 14 14 15 17 19 21 23 28 50

Motoring 53 Property 54 Homes & Gardens 62 Interior Design 65 In the Garden 69 Sudoku 81 Quick Crossword 83 Save The Planet 87 Wordsearch 88 Professional Services 90 Gadgets & Gizmos 93 Money Matters 95 Local Policing 97 Index, Competitions, Solutions 98

Competitions: 8, 37, 38, 39, 45, 48 & 51 Page 3

Wild Food Foraging with Steven Hawley

Why are we eating weeds?

An impar al weaning class in Cheltenham

Whether you start at 4 months or 6 months, I can guide you through the process. All you need to know from the best bits of kit to buy to the health guidelines on freezing and nutri on. How to cook for your baby with advice on steaming, puréeing and enjoying family meals together. We will also cook up some recipes on the course.

I was at an impressionable age when my mum served my sisters and I a plateful of boiled dandelion leaves for dinner. We complained at their bitter taste and asked why we were eating weeds. She, even to this day, claimed it was just strong tasting cabbage. We tried once more to turn away our meal when my eldest sister spotted the dead insects that had once claimed this plant as a home. She told us to stop being over dramatic, shut up and eat it. Mum was, and still can be, a formidable woman so we obediently – if a little begrudgingly – tucked in. It wasn’t until we had mostly devoured ours that she sat down with her own portion, saw the insects and screamed in horror before binning the whole lot in disgust. Now, whenever I look at my neighbours’ highly manicured lawn and see those lovely yellow heads defiantly popping up every year (dandelions don’t last long in my garden), I’m reminded of this vivid childhood memory. As a result, dandelions are now one of my most favourite foraged foods. They are also incredibly versatile, which just adds to their appeal. Every part of the plant can be eaten – even the root, which is used in a classic British summertime beverage. To make a light side salad, gather the required amount of leaves for a portion – a small handful of unopened flower buds and a couple of opened flowers. Wash everything in cold running water, unless you’re inviting a dedicated meat eater to join you for dinner, in which case feel free to leave those insects where they are! Remove any excess stalk then roughly chop the leaves and place into your intended serving dish. Throw in your buds whole. Drizzle some lemon juice, finely chopped garlic and a light sprinkle of sugar, and season to taste. Toss. Pick out the yellow petals from the opened flower head and sprinkle over the top until it looks suitably pretty. Enjoy with your chosen meal. This is how I enjoy mine but I have a very robust palate so you may want to experiment for yourself. Have fun with it – it’s free food so mistakes aren’t costly! And in answer to the question that some of you are no doubt wondering – I have never wet the bed after handling dandelions, so you’re perfectly safe! If you’re not 100% sure that the plant you’re picking is safe for human consumption, don’t pick it. If you’re prone to food allergies, or pregnant, always seek medical advice before consuming anything foraged in the wild. Page 4

Children's par es also catered for in a healthy and fun way! My aim is to make party food a bit more fun and invi ng for kids, food is served up in a box for each child to unravel.

Tel: 07534 408533 For more informa on and class dates visit:

HIRE THE HOG MASTER ROAST YOUR OWN MEAT & POULTRY...

We supply the equipment and meats and poultry reared on our own farm including pork, lamb, venison and chicken

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01242 861333/07769 700067/07831 734683 To hire the Hog Master or for details please call

BURLEY FIELDS HOG ROAST HIRE Leckhampton Lane • Cheltenham • GL51 4XT

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The Local Answer

Delicious Dishes with Helen Kingscott

Brilliant Banoffi Pie A tasty dessert to make for garden parties or just to enjoy on your own Ingredients: 175g (6oz) digestive biscuits; 150g (6oz) melted butter; half tin Nestle condensed milk*; 75g (3oz) caster sugar; 2-3 bananas; 300ml (pint) double cream; fine strips of lime peel, grated chocolate or chocolate chips to decorate. Method: 1 Put digestive biscuits in a sandwich bag, seal and crush with a rolling pin. Melt 75g butter and mix with the crushed biscuits. 2 Press the mixture onto the base and sides of a 20cm (8”) loose bottomed, fluted flan tin – or line

a tin with foil so you can lift the base out easily when it is set. 3 Pour condensed milk into a non-stick saucepan with the remaining butter and caster sugar. Stir over a very low heat until the sugar dissolves. Boil for five minutes, stirring all the time to make a light golden caramel. Pour into the biscuit case and leave to cool. 4 Remove the base from the flan tin, slice up 2-3 bananas and arrange over the caramel. 5 Whip the fresh double cream and cover the banana. Decorate with lime peel, grated chocolate or chocolate chips. * You could make two bases with the caramel to use up the other half of the tin and either eat two banoffis or freeze one (without banana and cream) for another time. Alternatively, you could buy a squeezy bottle of cream, which can be kept once opened for three weeks.

Learn how to cook authentic oriental dishes and sit down to enjoy the meal together. All abilities and interests. Small groups of up to 6 people. Courses held in Prestbury, Cheltenham Pre-Uni courses available through the summer. ☎ 07512 888009 email: pamela@chenmorechopsticks.co.uk chenmorechopsticks @chenchopsticks The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 5

Fine footwear repairs on your doorstep Kevin Sawle has over 25 years’ experience in the cobbler industry and just over a year ago opened his own independent shop – K.D. Sawle Cobbler – on London Road. Kevin’s style is a bit different from the norm. He describes the materials and techniques he uses as “old school” and explains: “By combining the best leather on the market with the techniques I use – which includes a lot of hand work – the repair lasts a lot longer and is the closest you’ll get to a manufacturer repair and the original condition of the footwear.” He completely deconstructs the shoe and puts it back together by hand, which is a lengthy process but of more benefit to the customer. Clients may pay a slightly higher price with Kevin, but the service and quality is excellent, dictating they won’t need to return for further repairs for a long time. Having worked in both sides of the industry – cheap and cheerful as well as high quality – Kevin is keen to educate people on how footwear should be treated. His shop and work area has an open plan and Kevin is more than happy for customers to stay and watch him at work – he has nothing to hide! As well as fine shoe care, the shop provides further services including key cutting, engraving and repairing watch bracelets. So far Kevin has survived through word of mouth and is extremely grateful for his customers’ support. He is now looking to widen his client base and educate people throughout the county. If you’d like to learn more about Kevin’s “old school” techniques or have a pair of shoes that need attention, why not pop in to say hello?

SAWLE

Fine Footwear Repairs k.d.

cobbler

221 London Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham The Local Answer

SHOE CARE :: KEY CUTTING :: ENGRAVING WATCH BRACELETS & BATTERIES Hours of Business Monday-Friday 8am-6pm & Saturday 8am-1pm

07594 974191

@kdSAWLEcobbler

To advertise call 01242 510500

sawle4@hotmail.co.uk Page 7

Aquajardin are giving readers the chance to win this fantastic Pond Kit worth £150, complete with Tough Line ‘Roach’ Pond Pondovario 1500 pump, Pennine Water Course, Pond Hose and Hose Clip! To enter our draw to win the Pond Kit, send your

Page 8

name, address and telephone number to ‘Aquajardin’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk stating ‘Aquajardin’. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Pet Care

with Oliver Wilkinson of Charlton Kings Vet Centre The Charlton Kings Vet Centre is fully equipped with a sterile operating theatre, digital radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory equipment. Drop in and have a look around. You will see many of the same friendly faces from our main surgery at Dragon Vet Centre. You can book your visits and pick up food, medications or pet supplies at either surgery if it’s more convenient. 17 Lyefield Road West Charlton Kings Cheltenham GL53 8EZ 01242 220158

www.charltonkingsvet.co.uk

THIS MONTH’S SPECIAL OFFER

£10 OFF

VACCINATIONS OR CONSULTATIONS

FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS The above discount is available throughout May 2015 – limited to one voucher per household

Every year as the weather warms up, dog owners start to nervously worry that they might come across an adder while walking in the countryside. The adder (Vipera berus) is the only native venomous snake in Britain and is responsible for many rushed trips to the vet when curious dogs get a bit too close to this otherwise timid and nonaggressive snake. Most adder bites occur between April and July and more often in the afternoon of warm, sunny days when the snakes are most active. Nearly all dogs bitten by snakes will develop local signs at the site of an adder bite and most bites tend to be on the muzzle or end of a limb. Swelling and oedema usually occurs within minutes to two hours after the bite. The poison from an adder bite can also cause internal/systemic signs such as fever, lethargy, drooling, nausea and weakness. In rare circumstances the internal reaction can be serious enough to cause shock, organ damage, heart rhythm disorders, seizures and very occasionally death.

Symptoms are usually not life-threatening

CHARLTON KINGS VET CENTRE OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-6.30PM DRAGON VET CENTRE OPEN SATURDAY 9AM-12 NOON 24 HOUR EMERGENCY ~ 01242 522022 Charlton Kings Vet Centre in affiliation with

Prestbury Park, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4SH T: 01242 580324 F: 01242 241908 www.dragonvet.co.uk

The Local Answer

Adder bites – a warm weather nastie!

Fortunately the majority of the time the symptoms, while serious, are usually not life-threatening and respond quickly to treatment. In those rare occasions where an animal is critically unwell, an anti-venom can be administered. If your dog is bitten by a snake, keep calm, try to keep your dog quiet, get to your local vet as quickly as possible and be reassured that the vast majority of dogs that get bitten by adders recover completely with prompt veterinary attention. Occasionally something positive can come from a nasty snake bite. I still remember treating a labrador that had been bitten by a snake on Cleeve Hill nearly eleven years ago. The fact that I later married the lovely lady who brought the dog in probably has something to do with why I feel just a little bit of gratitude towards these otherwise feared, fanged reptiles!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 9

Holidays & Travel with TLA Travel Expert

What happens in Vegas! You have finally popped the question, she said yes and now you are looking forward to your last nights of freedom and the only place deserving of your stag weekend is Nevada’s mecca of excess – the one and only, Las Vegas! Getting to Las Vegas is a simple 12 hour flight and you can go directly from Heathrow, seven days a week. On arrival why not organise a limousine to get you and your party to the hotel in style – it will save you fighting over cabs and looks pretty cool too.

There is a hotel for every taste in Vegas and the place to stay is on the strip. However, if you are slightly more budget conscious, a hotel just off the strip will offer better value for money and still be within walking distance of the casinos, clubs and bars. Themed hotels abound and you could pretend to be George Clooney with a stay at the Bellagio, or maybe you prefer to be a pirate and stay at Treasure Island. Wherever you decide to stay one thing

is certain – you won’t be spending much time in your room! The city of sin never sleeps and is created specifically as a sensory overload. Stag parties are well catered for and there’s the opportunity to enjoy Nascar racing or shooting – the choice of activities are endless. Party in the daylight hours at the hip Encore Beach club or Wet Republic, then hit the strip and enjoy showgirls, white tigers or just crawl from bar to bar. There is nothing like a Vegas show for over the top entertainment and there are hundreds to choose from. When you have had enough of partying, take to the sky and enjoy a helicopter trip over the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam. There’s no tepid or half-hearted approach to a Las Vegas Stag Weekend. When you’re in Sinatra’s Town you will be expected to dispense with sleep, sensible judgement, inhibition and culinary self-discipline in favour of simply rolling with the dice and seeing which way the wind takes you. Just remember – what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas so all bets are off!

Professional care for your pet in ‘state of the art’ facilities Air Conditioning • Underfloor Heating • Agility Gym • Field Walks

01452 712178 BJKennelsandCattery

www.bjkennelsandcattery.co.uk The Local Answer

bjkennelscattery@btconnect.com

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 11

Unlock the room in your garden ...

E ith E R F ing w rt

k e Decis adppvly a th t&c

A space of your own, just outside your home, designed especially for you. We provide unique, bespoke garden rooms designed and built to individual customers’ requirements. We offer a full ‘turnkey’ service so all you will have to do is decide how you will use yours? Home office, gym, studio, playroom, den ... You are welcome to visit our stunning showroom to see an example of our work, to discuss your requirements and to get a feeling of what a garden room can offer you. Located in Cheltenham only 5 minutes from junction 11 of the M5, please contact us to make an appointment.

In the majority of cases planning permission is not required.

Office: 01242 694041 Mobile: 07736 676074 Email: info@spagardenrooms.co.uk

www.spagardenrooms.co.uk

Networking group set to gather momentum

If you are looking for a friendly welcome with the added bonus of gathering new business for your occupation, then look no further than Nine Networking. The breakfast group is very relaxed, and the current members cover a varied mixture of businesses. The group meet upstairs at The Wilson Café in Cheltenham town centre, starting at 7.15 am every Thursday. The meeting starts off with tea and coffee and a very informal chance to network and chat with members and other guests. It seems to be a great chance to catch up with friends, and to talk about the week, or to meet new contacts. Then around 7.35am we were asked to take our seats for

a really nice breakfast served by The Wilson staff. The choice is cooked full English or a healthy fruit, yogurt and cereal option. For this you are in tables of 4 or 5 and this gives you a better chance to network. Then everyone in the room gets the chance to tell the group what their business is,

what they have been up to and what type of business or clients they are after. But the most important part of this meeting is the business that’s passed between members and also guests. Its genuine business, and the group work together to help promote each other’s trade or service. If you are a new business or an expanding business wanting more clients, then Nine Networking is really worth a look. And with membership now free for 6 months, this networking group will be gathering new members very quickly. And with their policy of only one member for each business category, I would be quick to visit.

www.ninenetworking.co.uk You can visit the website at

to see existing members and to also book a place at the next meeting The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 13

Cocktail Time

thehaven SpaVapes.

with Lois Kingscott

£21 until 31/05/15

Luxury Pedicure treatment including exfoliation and paraffin wax and Vinylux polish

Cheltenham’s Vaping Shop

High Quality E-Cigarettes & E-Juices

Unit 16, Lansdown Trading Estate, Cheltenham GL51 8PL and 10 Albion St, Cheltenham GL52 2LP Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-3pm

www.spavapes.co.uk T: 01242 210555

182 Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings

MOBILE CHIROPODIST 01242 252 869

E: info@spavapes.co.uk

amandawiltshire@aol.com

www.thehavencheltenham.co.uk

Maria Ranieri Long M.S.S.Ch. M.B.Ch.A. HPC Registered

Dark ‘n’ Stormy This classic drink is a highball cocktail made with black rum and ginger beer, served over ice and garnished with a slice of lime. Classic, easy to make and tasty, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy is the national drink of Bermuda and is the perfect Caribbean tipple for sultry summer days. Many people believe there’s only one specific type of dark rum this cocktail can be made with – Gosling’s Black Seal. They say: “If it ain’t Gosling’s, it ain’t a Dark ‘n’ Stormy.” With regards to its origin – as with the majority of rum history – the story of the cocktail comes from sailors. In the 17th century it was standard practice for the British Royal Navy to allot rum rations to sailors, and the rum was sourced from various bases on Caribbean rum-producing islands such as Bermuda. Around the late 1860s, the Gosling Brothers’ rum distillery, located in Bermuda, began marketing a heavy blend of dark rums, which eventually became the Gosling’s Black Seal that is marketed today. The Royal Navy added a ginger beer plant to their dockyard on Ireland Island (Bermuda). Ginger is a well-known tonic for seasickness so may have been used in an attempt to wean sailors off of heavy rum-drinking. The name itself is said to have originated when a sailor held the drink up to the sky and observed the drink was “the colour of a cloud only a fool or a dead man would sail under”. Ingredients: Ice; 50ml Gosling’s Black Seal Rum (or other black rum); 150ml ginger beer; lime wedge (optional). Method: 1 Fill a highball glass with ice and add 150ml ginger beer. 2 Top up with 50ml black rum and garnish with a lime wedge (optional).

Qualified Chiropodist providing professional care and service in the comfort of your own home Toe nail cutting, thick yellow nails, corns, hard skin, in-growing toe nails, diabetic foot care, general foot care Appointments can also be made for treatments at the Springbank Community Centre and at the Hester’s Way Healthy Living Centre. Please call for details

01242 705828 / 07719 664020

De f i n i n g y o u r st y le

Maria Ranieri Long is the trading name of Ranieri Long Limited

Ou r h igh ly sk illed an d e x p e r i e nc e d t e a m o f h a i rd re s s e rs i s o n h a nd t o c r e a t e t h e p e r fe c t l oo k f or y ou ! ●

Expert colouring and highlighting

Precision cutting and styling

01242 514900

www.theguildhairdressing.co.uk View the full range of promotions at

18 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, GL50 2AQ

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY Why not have a Mocktail? For a non-alcoholic alternative, mix 20ml molasses, 220ml ginger beer and 25ml fresh lime juice. Garnish with a lime wedge. Page 14

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25% OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS DURING MAY

The Local Answer

Looking Good, Feeling Great with Matt Wagstaff

Supplements to aid your health and goals Adding specific supplements into a healthy diet can have some really beneficial effects on health, as well as certain goals such as building muscle, increasing strength or improving aspects of fitness. Before starting to take supplements you should always make sure your raw food diet is good, getting in as much nutrition as you can this way. Supplements should not be taken in place of raw food. Consulting a qualified nutritionist is beneficial before taking supplements to assess appropriate dosage and health effects.

BONE & JOINT HEALTH

muscle – there are many different types such as casein, whey and even pea protein supplements. These all help build muscles after exercise. Within our muscles there is creatine, which is used as a fuel for muscle contraction. Supplementing with this can help increase strength and power along with helping muscle build.

IMPROVE FITNESS Some supplements can help boost fitness, especially taken during and prior to exercise. Caffeine has been shown to acutely increase aerobic and anaerobic capacity, leading to improved endurance as well as improving power output. Betaalanine as well as creatine can aid in short-term fitness and improving muscular endurance due to a prevention action of the acid on muscles tissue. Co-enzyme Q-10 has been shown to increase VO2 max, seeing increases in the heart and lungs ability to handle intense exercise.

Having strong bones and joints can be very helpful, especially later on in life when bones and cartilage weaken and break down. Glucosamine has been shown to be beneficial in strengthening joints and decreasing the onset of osteoarthritis. Alongside this, vitamin D can help increase the uptake of calcium from the blood, helping bones build, preventing weaknesses and DIGESTION & GUT HEALTH Optimal digestion will help towards improving functionality. better health, increasing your ability BUILD MUSCLE & INCREASE to absorb food and use it efficiently STRENGTH within the body. A damaged gut can Preventing muscle breakdown and lead to bloating and lethargy among building up skeletal muscle and many other things. Supplementing strength has many benefits, including Probiotics, otherwise known as ‘good better blood flow and better bacteria’, can help rebuild the gut movement. Protein supplements, wall, improving the digestive filled with vital amino acids help build system’s ability to absorb food’s

nutrients and get rid of toxins from within food. Peppermint oil can be effective in reducing bloating and gas within the digestive system, helping to sooth the gut and intestines and preventing abdominal pain due to an irritable bowel.

RECOVERY & SLEEP A good night’s sleep is great for keeping stress at bay, detoxification and over all good health. Although natural sleep is the best, sometimes help is needed. Melatonin and Magnesium supplementation have been shown to help those who struggle to sleep, improving the ability to fall asleep and promoting relaxation. Lavender oil, derived from plants, can help reduce anxiety and promote calm and natural sleep via absorption through the skin or even just the aroma.

5 DAY JUICE PROGRAMME (from The Core) along with 3 personal training sessions (with Lisa from PhysiqueFinesse) for only 201 London Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Glos GL52 6HU ☎ 01242 224898 The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

£200 Page 15

For health and wellbeing Craig Thorn B.Sc. (Hons) PGCE

Experienced and qualified in UK and Asia Member of Acupuncture and Acutherapy Council Clinics held in Charlton Kings and Suffolk Road, Cheltenham

www.acupuncturetherapeuticmassage.blogspot.com

For more details and FREE consultation tel 01242 576906/07851 004679 Page 16

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The Local Answer

Style & Fashion with Sophie Perry

Spring and Summer Weddings Choosing your wedding dress can be slightly overwhelming with so many shapes and styles – where do you begin? A delicate sweetheart shape is a traditional choice of neckline or, for something more contemporary, look to Vera Wang for inspiration. Her Spring 2015 collection features exquisitely cut dresses with deep v-necklines and plunging backs. Amongst other designers, off-theshoulders is a popular design detail this season. If more coverage is preferred choose a capped or 3/4 sleeve in a sheer fabric-lace, illusion or a silk chiffon would be perfect for a summer wedding.

This season we’ve seen designers use Tulle in a completely new and innovative way. Creating shape and volume, it is light and effortless in appearance – far from the traditional full-bodied skirts that are often made heavy by layers of netting. The phrase ‘a white wedding’ allegedly originates from trend setter Queen Victoria, while a coloured gown was a more common choice prior to this. Adding a tint of colour has become the latest trend in bridal wear – sky blue, blush pink and mint green were the most prominent colours amongst the catwalks. For a less traditional look follow Solange Knowles. One of three outfits, the fashionista wore an ultra-chic jumpsuit during her wedding celebrations. Or, perhaps a two piece bridal outfit – check out designers Reem Acra and Theia for how to wear this trend. Adding something personal can make your day extra special. For example, Angelina Jolie wore a veil delicately embroidered with drawings from her children. If you search online you can find beautiful hand made pieces that can be personalised to your day. For men, cufflinks, ties and handkerchiefs all printed with your initials, and for women, playful stickers for the soles of your shoes, engraved jewellery and embellished veils.

With the likes of Gucci and Richard James creating sharp, tailored menswear, the modern British groom can also break the mold with something contrary to the traditional suit with ample menswear for the big day across the market. Coloured suits look great, especially in bright bold colours. You could mix and match by choosing an alternate colour or patterned fabric in one aspect of your outfit, such as your shoes, shirt or tie. Apply this to your groomsmen as well, matching just one accessory for continuity.

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To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 17

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to see what’s happening, and don’t be afraid to drop in for coffee in the cafe! Call 01242 254321 or visit www.isbourne.org Page 18

Book online

https://courses.talk2gether.nhs.uk/ or call 0800 073 2200

Foundation Trust For Gloucestershire

Cheltenham CBT Clinic Private Psychotherapy Practice offering cognitive behaviour therapy to treat clients suffering from emotional disorders Panic disorder Agoraphobia ■ Generalised anxiety ■ OCD ■ Social anxiety ■ Specific phobias ■ Health anxiety ■ Depression At our clinic we are proud to offer a psychotherapeutic solution that has been scientifically tested with proven results. ■ ■

FR EE

Fi rs tA pp oi wh nt en m en TL quo t A tin g

Janie Whittemore

This month on Sunday 3rd, you can Learn Emotional Freedom Techniques (Level 1) with Wendy Beresford, and discover the positive effects of ‘tapping’ for health, combining the ancient benefits of acupuncture with modern psychology. Also on the 3rd May, if you feel the time has come for you to learn how to give Reiki healing to yourself and others, I am running an introductory Reiki Level 1 course. The Isbourne Guest Speaker programme regularly brings you new and exciting speakers. On 16th May, the world-renowned psychic and teacher Tori Hartman will be returning to us from the States with her workshop 7 Steps to Unlocking your Intuitive Powers with the Chakra Wisdom Oracle. This deck of 49 unique cards was created by Tori after a neardeath experience, as a toolkit for guiding you on your journey, using your own intentions and inner wisdom. Curious about your past lives? Then this evening talk How Past Lives can Change Your Life Now with author Atasha Fyfe on May 11th is for you. Specialist in past life regression and associated research for nearly 20 years, Atasha believes that used correctly, the knowledge of past lives can help to transform key areas of your life now such as relationships, health and prosperity, as well as giving insight into old wounds, and your role in the world. For those that would like to learn about Crystal Healing, the next introductory day course is on May 30th and is always very popular, with Isbourne College tutor Kelly Peacey. Lastly, don’t forget our Taster Week from 18th to 25th May, a whole week of free sessions for you to come and try before you buy! It’s an excellent way for people to have the opportunity to meet the tutor and discuss course content before committing, so we offer a 10% discount to those who book on the day!

FREE CBT COURSES NEAR YOU

Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue ● ● Emotional Wellbeing ● ● Low Mood ● Stress and Anxiety ● ● Panic ● Anger ● Sleep ● ● Irritable Bowel Syndrome ● ● Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ● ● Mindfulness ● Low Self Esteem ●

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Living well

L et ’s Ta lk

Oriel Lodge, Oriel Road, Cheltenham GL50 1XN Call Deborah to book your clinic or skype appointment

07595 322317 www.cbtclinic.co.uk info@cbtclinic.co.uk

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Mirror Mirror on the Wall... with Katie Pollard

70s Revive – Campervan Chic! Street style? This summer is all about the ‘festival style’ and given that the festival season is fast approaching, it’s time to embrace everything that goes with it beauty-wise – this year it’s all about the ‘Campervan chic’. You can’t have a spring/summer trend without a festival look and this is it. As talked about in January’s overview of beauty trends for the coming year, it brings the traditional ‘street style’ to ‘field style’. Think bohemian, disheveled beauty that looks and feels effortless. It’s all about sun bleached hair and a freckled face to give a sun-kissed finish. What do you think of when someone says campervan? Patterned prints? A pop of colour? Floral pastels? This iconic motor of the 70s has inspired the pastel mints and sky blue shades that you’ll be adding to your make up bag. Your skin can breathe a sigh of relief and remain fresh and unfussy, with detail being used elsewhere, like a bright lip or illuminated eyelids. As campervans were the preferred mode of transport in the 70s, it now plays the muse to the 70s’ flower power fashion, but adds a feminine

twist for your beauty palettes. We’re talking colour with a laissezfaire attitude – acid wash pastels and tie dye colours that radiate the ultimate summer beauty. These colours used against lightly tanned or freckled skin, a pop of colour on your lips, shimmer across your eyelids and you’re officially ready to hit the festivals with your Campervan chicness! Now for what the men will be rocking at the festivals this season. Last month’s focus was on beards being back – combine this with long hair and you’ve got yourself the beloved retro look of the 70s. Yes you heard it right – the 70s are back and better than ever! Admittedly, this one isn’t for the faint hearted, but if you’re one to appreciate a good mane of flowing locks on a man, then

you’ll be a fan of the latest men’s grooming trend. The long and short of it (or should I say, the long and straight of it) is that it’s the carefree surfer attitude that comes with overgrown locks which makes it all the more appealing. Whatever the reason, multiple designers were on board with this trend and cast longhaired men to breeze down their runways. So, if you are into this portrayal of the campervan chic style, it’s time to not only start growing the beard, but the locks to go with it too!

DIETS ALONE ALONE DON’T WORK I LOST 4st 4lb IN 4 MONTHS

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Every time I lost a stone, I’d quickly put it back on again

Maintaining for 4 years

LighterLife does!

Stella

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Find out how: Jenny Tuckwell, Cheltenham & Gloucester Tel: 07963 300848 Visit: lighterlife.com/JennyTuckwell The Local Answer

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TWO GREAT DAY NURSERIES FOR YOUR CHILD ... www.wintonhouse-daynursery.co.uk

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Parenting & Guardianship with Roberta Smart

Magic mindfulness for mums Congratulations! You are expecting, and you want to make sure you do the best for yourself and your unborn baby. The whole process of pregnancy and birth can be both stressful and challenging for many mums. So what’s new? Recent studies have shown that incorporating ‘Mindfulness’ into your daily routine, or attending Mindfulness Classes, will support both you and your baby throughout pregnancy and birth. But what is Mindfulness? One definition says it is: “A mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.” Already popular in the treatment of mental health and pain management, mindfulness is recognised as being of great benefit to mothers, helping with stress, anxiety, mood swings and general well-being, supporting calmness during pregnancy and as a tool during natural childbirth.

Where to start There are endless ways you can approach mindful living, but one place to start is with a regular breathing practice. Start with five minutes sitting quietly and focusing on breathing in and out. Whilst you are breathing deeply and with intent,

chewing thoroughly, really appreciating the colours, tastes and textures in every bite and taking the time to enjoy your meals. By actively choosing to pay close attention to the minutiae of everyday activities, you will find yourself less distracted and less prone to stress than usual.

Accepting ‘what is’

pay close attention to your body, your position, the temperature and the ground beneath your feet. Staying focused on the present moment rather than letting your mind wander is the essential magic of mindfulness. You may also find mindful walking in nature is calming and life enhancing. Whether it is a hike in the woods or a simple stroll into town, taking the time to appreciate the moment, the freedom, the peace and quiet and the joy of nature will all add to your wellbeing. Mindfully eating healthy, nutritionrich, plant-based foods can also enhance your personal wellbeing –

Of all the things you can do for yourself and your baby, remaining calm and accepting ‘what is’, rather than constantly comparing yourself and wishing things were different, will be the best thing you have ever done. Never forget that you are unique and your pregnancy journey will be unlike anyone else’s. Staying centred and positive will ensure that you follow your own path and help you remain confident throughout – a confident mum is a happy mum! I assure you that developing a practice of mindfulness will create a sense of calmness and satisfaction that you never imagined you would find. In no time at all your parenting challenges will shift to a whole new level – and positive parenting starts with a happy mum, so what better time to start practicing your secret super power? Deep breathing is your new secret weapon, so when in doubt – BREATHE! All together now – breathe in... Hold it... Slowly release. And again. There, doesn’t that feel better?

C E N T R E A N D T R E AT M E N T R O O M S £20 OFF OF TWO OR £30 OFF THREE OSTEOPATH TREATMENTS WITH OLIVIA

DURING MAY 2015 WITH THIS ADVERTISEMENT

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Nazareth House

Rated â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Goodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by OFSTED in 2013

Purpose built venue with enclosed garden

Tastefully furnished rooms waiting for your personal touch Beautiful grounds for you to enjoy Wonderful food with all dietary requirements catered for Caring, qualified staff always on hand

Call 01242 516361 to arrange a visit

www.broadlandspreschool.org.uk

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344 London Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL52 6YJ gm.cheltenhamuk@nazarethcare.com

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Care & Mobility with Lois Kingscott

If you are interested in or have experience of the Care and Mobility industry and would like to write regular articles for The Local Answer, email editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk.

Home care support for your loved one Making the decision to move a loved one into a residential care home or other type of elderly care residency can be a difficult time for all involved. However, there are a number of ways for them to maintain their independence for a while longer. If your relative or friend wants to stay in their own home, but needs help and support to do so, there are a variety of products and services that can provide help at home.

Home Adaptations Elderly people living at home with disabilities can apply for a grant that helps towards the cost of providing adaptations and other facilities which make people safer and more mobile in their home (cheltenham.gov.uk for more information). The government supports FirstStop – an independent, impartial and free service that helps older folk, their families and carers. It also supports other organisations aiming to help elderly people maintain independent living in later life, as well as Home Improvement Agencies that arrange for adaptations and home repairs to be made, including grab rails, stair-lifts The Local Answer

and major developments such as services) including financial, medical, advocacy, social and practical support, ground-floor extensions. or a place to live in a family who will Home Care Services care for you, known as “shared lives Home care comes in many forms and services”. is suitable for those needing personal assistance with washing or dressing, Alarm Systems housekeeping or domestic work, Technology is used in many electronic preparing meals, nursing, health care products and systems nowadays to monitor activities, manage risks, or companionship. Home care can be very flexible in increase security, help the resident order to meet your needs, and the manage the important tasks within same person or agency may be able their daily lives, and bring support to provide some or all of these options more quickly when things go wrong. A telecare system generally consists for the duration of your care: of a base unit and a range of sensors • Long-term 24-hour care • Short breaks for an unpaid family that are placed around the home. The base unit is linked to a monitoring carer centre or carer through a landline or • Emergency care mobile telephone. If a problem occurs • Day care and is detected by the sensor, the base • Sessions ranging from 15-minute unit triggers an alarm via the landline visits to 24-hour assistance and to the monitoring centre’s trained staff everything in between or a carer who will then activate the If you know which type of support appropriate response. Telecare systems can also include you need, you can search NHS Choices directories for local home care services personal or emergency alarms and and agencies, a list of national home cover many risk areas – from falls, care organisations, services that can inactivity, fire, floods and gas leaks to help you stay safe in your home on a unwanted callers – and can be tailored long-term basis (supported living to suit the needs of the individual.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 23

W rit e rs re qu i red

Have you ever read an article in The Local Answer and thought, “I could do better than that”? Well now is your chance. We are looking for people to write regular articles for us on a number of different topics. If you have a passion for, or specialist knowledge of, any of the following topics – please email editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk for more information.

Care & Mobility ● Holidays & Travel ● Wildlife ● Property ● Medical Health ●

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ANSWER

Page 24

Get i nvo lved!

Residential and Respite Care for the Elderly

Live with the reassurance of immediate assistance at any hour – day and night, 365 days a year. Dignified attention to all your needs by a skilled and experienced team. Three cooked meals a day available – your choice from a seasonal and varying menu. Full laundry service and daily room housekeeping. No restrictions to your lifestyle – live with the comfort and freedom you feel in your own home. You matter to us – your safety and well-being are put first. To arrange a visit, please contact the home: Charlton Kings Care Home ~ 01242 521 812 Moorend Road, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 9AX

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Creating welcoming and inclusive communities across the county Who we are Barnwood Trust is a charitable foundation, which was established over 150 years ago in Gloucestershire. The Trust’s vision is to create the best possible environment in Gloucestershire for people with disabilities and mental health challenges, in order to help them make the most of their lives.

A bit about our history Barnwood House was opened as a public hospital for the care and treatment of people with mental health challenges in 1860. The hospital thrived through the latter years of the nineteenth century and after World War Two. However, as more people took advantage of improved care provided free through the NHS, the main hospital closed in 1967 and the majority of the estate was sold. From around 1980 the Trust’s operations were focussed on the provision of day care, sheltered housing and a comprehensive grant giving programme was established (which still continues through

to today). Then in 2011, the Trustees agreed a new ten-year plan for the Trust, marking the end of its role as a direct provider of services.

What we are up to now The new ten-year plan – ‘You’re Welcome’ – is all about creating more welcoming and inclusive communities across Gloucestershire. As you can see on our advert, there are loads of ways you can get involved with ‘You’re Welcome’, whether that’s applying for a grant, booking a place on one of our free workshops, or logging on to the ‘You’re Welcome’ website. We will also be out and about across the county at events big and small this year. If you spot our You’re Welcome campervan, come and have a cup of tea and a biscuit with us and meet some of the team – everyone is welcome. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Competition! The first ten people to spot us at an event in the ‘You’re Welcome’ campervan and show us your copy of The Local Answer will win a voucher for Pepper Crescent in Cheltenham!

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Page 27

What’s On The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit. EVERY DAY RIVER AVON BOAT TRIPS On our 55-seater passenger boat available 7 days a week from the end of March to mid-October, from 11am till 5pm (weather permitting). PLEASE TELEPHONE FOR CRUISE TIMES. Also available for Private Evening Hire! The Handsam Boat Company. 07860 895416. Explore the River Avon from Abbey Park, Evesham. EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY JEWELLERY MAKING COFFEE SESSIONS Enjoy a friendly coffee morning and make your own fabulous jewellery with tuition from Rachel in her shop at Verchiel Jewellery, 1 Berkeley Mews, Cheltenham (behind the Swan). Mon 10.30-12.30. Wed 10.30-12.30 and 1-3pm, Thur 12.30-2.30. Only £5 including tuition and refreshments. Materials extra. Pre-booking required. verchieljewellery@hotmail.co.uk. 07828 552610. verchieljewellery.co.uk. EVERY TUESDAY BEGINNERS PILATES (LADIES ONLY) Work core, improve posture, tone without cardio. Effective, balanced, flowing, gentle. Tuesday’s 7.15pm @ All Saints Academy, Blaisdon Way, Cheltenham GL51 0WH. Classes £8 – please ring to book 07528 471091. For up-to-date timetable synergispilates.co.uk. Other classes available. EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY KIXA SELF DEFENCE & FITNESS TRAINING Impove fitness, learn self defence and control without aggression. Tuesdays 79pm – Gloucester Deaf Association Community Centre, Colin Road, Barnwood,

GL4 3JL. Thursdays 7-8pm – All Saints’ Academey (Gym/Studio), Blaisdon Way, Cheltenham GL51 0WH. proteksfitness.com. 0776 210 1938. EVERY SUNDAY CAR LESS CAR BOOT New, regular event starting 3rd May. Sell your unwanted items, or come and find a bargain! £6 a pitch – 01242 317869 to book. 10am-2pm. Cheltenham Market, 252 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL3 7NB. cheltenhammarket@gmail.com. cheltenhammarket.co.uk (facebook). 27 APRIL – 2 MAY TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

Set in the Deep South, Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel sees racial injustice envelop a small-town community. Through courage and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth, and his feisty daughter, Scout – a young girl on

ON ROAD OFF ROAD EVERYTHING FOR CYCLING

from second hand sales to servicing and repairs

Collection & Delivery Service Available! Call Nige on 07551 923072 / 01452 534622 or email bickosbikeshack@virginmedia.com For all your cycling needs visit our website...

www.bickosbikeshack.co.uk Page 28

the cusp of adulthood – brings new hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. 7.30pm (2pm matinees Thursday and Saturday). From £15. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. 29 APRIL – 4 MAY CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL With over 20,000 music-fans getting in the festival swing every year, and Jamie Cullum and Moira Stuart amongst our biggest fans, Cheltenham has become one of the country’s best-loved jazz festivals. Our festival site in Montpellier Gardens at the heart of Cheltenham is the perfect place to soak up an outstanding festival atmosphere. Featuring a feast of free outdoor music, a selection of food and drink stalls, and fun family activities, it’s the only place to be this Bank Holiday weekend. cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz for more details. 30 APRIL A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE A stellar cast is led by Mark Strong in the Young Vic’s ‘magnetic, electrifying, astonishingly bold’ production, directed by the visionary, Ivo van Hove. The great Arthur Miller confronts the American dream in this dark and passionate tale broadcast from London’s West End by National Theatre Live. This stunning production of Miller’s tragic masterpiece was the Evening Standard, Guardian and Independent’s top theatre pick of 2014. £16 (£14). 7pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.

CAR LESS CAR BOOT

@The Market from 10am to 2pm

Rent a pitch for £6 Our tabletop sale will run every Sunday in the Yard @Cheltenham Market star ng 3rd May

To book: 01242 317869 Cheltenham Market Ltd cheltenhammarket@gmail.com @252 Bath Road www.cheltenhammarket.co.uk Cheltenham Market

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Support your county! Gloucestershire will begin their 2015 County Championship campaign at home to last year’s runners up Cornwall at Cinderford RFC’s Dockham Road ground on Saturday 9th May (3pm kick off). Over its long history, the county have an impressive tournament record and, with your support, are aiming to win at Twickenham in 2015. Everyone is welcome to what promises to be a great, passionate rugby occasion when the strongly-supported Cornishmen are hosted in the Forest of Dean. Gloucestershire’s most recent appearance in the final was in 2010 when they lost to Lancashire, and they last won the title in 2002 against Cheshire. The Championship has seen 114 finals. Lancashire has won the most titles with 23, Gloucestershire are next with 17. Both counties have played in 33 finals.

Gloucestershire Team Director Paul Morris has put together a group of coaches full of quality and experience primarily involving Andrew Stanley, Tim Stevenson and Paul Price. Still a Gloucester RFC player at the time, open side flanker Stanley was captain of the Gloucestershire side that triumphed over Warwickshire at Twickenham to win the 1996 title. Stevenson, a fly half, played

in the county’s last Twickenham appearance in 2010, and Lydney stalwart Price was a prop in the 2002 victory. The coaching team is further strengthened with the support of Steve Planchant and Paul Williams. Together Morris and Planchant coached the county’s Under-20s to their first title in 2008 and repeated the feat in 2009. Williams is also a past Gloucestershire Senior Head Coach. Training has begun with two Sunday sessions held at Cheltenham Civil Service RFC. Further training is planned at Cinderford RFC prior to the game versus Cornwall. The team’s starting line-up and replacements will be announced on Tuesday 5th May. Cornwall has reached the last two finals, losing to Lancashire on both occasions. They have defeated Gloucestershire for the last three years and were victorious on their visit to Cinderford two years ago. The players, coaches and everyone involved in the Gloucestershire set-up are determined to

rectify this sequence of results. What a great occasion it would be for our county’s rugby fraternity to gather in huge numbers and drown out the many travelling Cornish fans as we loudly cheer the Gloucestershire boys to victory! The Championship is split into five divisions on a regional basis and the top two divisions are now known as the Bill Beaumont Cup. Divisions One and Two are split into two North and South groups respectively. Gloucestershire play in Division One South. The county’s other group games will be against, 2012 winners, Hertfordshire on 16th May (away at Hertford RFC) and lastly on May 23rd against Kent (at home at Cleve RFC, Bristol). If they top their group they will play the winners of a Northern Group – involving holders Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cheshire and Durham – in the final at Twickenham on Sunday 31st May.

Gloucestershire’s 2010 representatives at Twickenham

www.gloucestershirerfu.co.uk The Local Answer

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Page 29

Swimming at Cheltenham College Sports Centre Swim a Song

Aimed at babies and children aged between 4 months to 36 months old. Introducing young children to water. Confidence and independence. Developing movement and water skills. Parent/guardian in the water learning together. Teachers ‘rescue trained’.

Club Swimming Adult only lane swimming (over16s) Joint membership available. Concessionary rates. Early morning, evening and lunchtime slots available.

Adult Learn to Swim & Stroke Improvement

Pool Parties Now offering Pool Parties on Sunday afternoons (£124.99/hr)

COLLEGE CHELTENHAM

Contact: Cheltenham College Swim School on 01242 705551 or swimming@cheltenhamcollege.org for more information

20th July-21st August 2015

WEDDING OPEN EVENING View the fabulous Merlot Suite set up for a ceremony and wedding breakfast, and meet local wedding suppliers. 5.30-8pm. Hallmark Hotel Gloucester, Matson Lane, Robinswood Hill GL4 6EA. 01452 525653. 1 MAY O’HOOLEY AND TIDOW

An English folk music duo from Yorkshire regarded as the lionhearted trailblazers of contemporary music and song-writing. The couple, who are in a civil partnership, have been nominated for this years prestigious BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in the Best Duo category. 8pm. £12 (£10 concessions) in advance or £14 (£12) on the door. Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. JOHNNY KOWALSKI & THE SEXY WEIRDOS One of the most fun bands we have had play here – a Brass, Gypsy, Punk, Ska band

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blending Traditional Eastern/Western European folk melodies with Reggae and Ska rhythms, and a bit of death defying scuzz Punk! Pure fun at its best, music to stomp too! Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 2 MAY COMBINATION RUGBY CUP FINALS DAY New for this season – back to back games for all three of Cheltenham and District Rugby Combination’s Cup finals will take place on the same day. A great occasion for supporters and their familes to enjoy a feast of keenly contested matches. Entrance fee. 1pm The Minor Shield, 3pm Junior Cup, 5pm Senior Cup. Hosted by Cheltenham RFC at Newlands Park, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham GL52 3PE. SETH BYE AND KATIE GRIFFIN

A multi-instrumental folk duo who blur the edges between traditional music and contemporary styles. 7:30–10pm. Stroud

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Brewery, Unit 11 (off Hope Mill Lane), London Road, Stroud, GL5 2BU. 01453 887122. stroudbrewery.co.uk 2-25 MAY MUSEUM IN THE PARK Gallery One – Power of Ten Exhibition – part of the Select Festival 2015 which showcases textiles and contemporary crafts. Free admission. Tuesday–Friday 10am-5pm, weekends 11am-5pm. Closed Mondays (except Bank Holidays). Museum in the Park, Stratford Road, Stroud GL5 4AF. 01453 763394. museuminthepark.org.uk. 3 MAY TEWKESBURY BOWLING CLUB OPEN DAY

Have you ever thought about trying your skills at Lawn Green Bowling? Why not come along to our club and give it a go? From 10.30am until 4pm with lots of support and help to get you started. All you need is a flattish pair of shoes. New to lawn green bowling? Membership is free for 2015! tewkesburybowlsclub.com.

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Fairy and Wizard World A delightful day for all The Bird Park is hosting its very popular ‘Fairy and Wizard World’ on Wednesday 27th and Saturday 30th May, which is a delightful day for the children when they can make their grottos and enjoy lunch in the marquee. Face painting is the order of the day to get the finishing touches to the fancy dress outfits and prepare the children for meeting all the inmates of the park. Toffee and Treacle are back from holiday and are happy to be in amongst their friends inside the park, with peacocks displaying, birds nesting and Rosie the baby fallow deer out with the grown ups. So, if you’re looking for something to do this May, look no further than The Bird Park for a lovely day by the lakes in amongst the follies and fowl.

Children’s Parties The Bird Park also has the charming Gypsy Caravan and Mad Hatter’s Marquee available for children’s parties, which make a really different location for that special day. The Park’s Gypsy Caravan is just delightful and is nestled in a little dell amongst the Barnacle geese and Coscoroba swans, which is both private and magical. So for a totally different place to have a child’s party, call us on 01452 812727 or visit www.thebirdpark.com for more information.

Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm • 01452 812727 • www.thebirdpark.com The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX

THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESS SHOW

DON’T MISS OUT!

One of the biggest business events in the county providing a platform for collaboration and growth to all businesses of all size and industry – speak to exhibitors, consult in one of the interactive zones, join the extensive programme of seminars and workshop or attend one of the special events.

• VIP Reception & ‘Business of Design Showcase’ • Networking Breakfast • Business Breakfast

• Gala Dinner • Business Ladies Afternoon Tea

DELEGATE REGISTRATION OPEN NOW

Includes entry on both days plus many of the seminars and workshops. Visit website for details

The Gloucestershire Business Show is proud to support

The programme of seminars and workshops include speakers leading in their field of business in the county – ACC Richard Berry, Dr John-Henry Looney, Phil Mitchell, Neill Ricketts, Dr Peter Dirken, Professor Sadie Creese, Adam Balding to name a few. O2, Microsoft, Talk Talk, Total Ltd and other leading organisations will also be speaking at the Q&A based sessions.

Visit the website for details of individual sessions, special events, interactive zones, exhibitor floor, sponsorship and other opportunities.

www.gloucestershire-business-show.co.uk ~ 01242 807689

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE 13th-14th MAY 2015 hello@business-shows.co.uk

County Business Shows

@BizShowGlos

BizShowGlos

4 MAY SEX IN SUBURBIA

A brand new comedy about dating, men and finding Mr Right. Packed full of sensational songs including ‘I’m Every Woman’, ‘I Want To Break Free’ and ‘Somebody Else’s Guy’, this show will make you laugh, cry and dance in the aisles. Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 5 MAY HER

From Oscar® winning filmmaker Spike Jonze comes an Academy Award®

winning original love story that explores the evolving nature, and the risks, of intimacy in the modern world. Set in a near-future Los Angeles, Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) initiates a new advanced operating system, ‘Samantha‘ (Scarlett Johannsson) and falls in love with her insightful, sensitive and surprisingly funny persona. £6.50 (£5.50). 7.45pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. HEAVENLY LIGHT – THE STAINED GLASS Learn about the making of a stained glass window, to understand how to ‘read’ a window and to study some of the finest stained glass in the country. 10am3.45pm. £31 including refreshments on arrival and lunch in the historic Parliament Rooms rarely open to the public. Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. 6 MAY GAZ BROOKFIELD The Bristolian ‘Journey Man’ Gaz Brookfield is an über busy solo acoustic musician who constantly tours the UK playing to packed out audiences in each town or city he graces. His songs are instantly accessible every-man tales of life, love and everything else in between. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340.

7 MAY A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANCING

Take a trip back to the summer of ’63 and relive Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s ultimate coming of age romance in this timeless theatrical treat. Relive the passion, indulge in the romance and celebrate the greatest movie soundtrack of all time – She’s Like the Wind, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Be My Baby, Hungry Eyes and, of course, the Oscar® winning, The Time of My Life, performed by a full band and accompanied by fabulous show dancers. No one puts Baby in the corner. £20. 7.30pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002.

Dean Close School

OPEN MORNING Saturday 12th October 2013 Saturday 16th May 2015

Co-educational Day and Boarding School Age 3-18

For further information telephone: 01242 258079 for Pre-Preparatory 01242 258001 for Preparatory 01242 258044 for Senior

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www.deanclose.org.uk Page 35

Coming soon to Please note: Release dates correct at time of going to press – visit www.cineworld.co.uk for up to date information 23 APRIL

Avengers: Age of Ultron [12A] The Marvel superheroes reunite to take on an insane sentient robot bent on destroying mankind! With SHIELD gone and the Avengers needing a rest from saving the world, ace inventor Tony Stark designs a peacekeeping robot, Ultron. But when Ultron decides that humans are the enemy, he begins planning to wipe them off the face of the Earth. To stop Ultron, Tony Stark must reconvene the Avengers, as they face their greatest foe. Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr), Captain America (Chris Evans), The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth) return for Joss Whedon’s thrilling, actionpacked follow-up to mega-hit Avengers Assemble. 1 MAY

Far From The Madding Crowd [12A] Carey Mulligan leads the cast of this sumptuous new take on Thomas Hardy’s classic novel. Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan) is an independent, headstrong young woman keen to make her own way in the male-dominated environment of late 19th century Dorset. Having inherited her uncle’s farm, Bathsheba gains a measure of social status, only to find herself being courted by three very different men. Sheep farmer Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts) is a man of relatively lowly social status but possessed of strong moral fibre. Repressed landowner Boldwood (Michael Sheen) is wealthy and can promise Bathsheba lasting financial security. And soldier Sergeant Troy (Tom Sturridge) is dashingly charismatic. Can she find lasting happiness with any of them? 7 MAY

Big Game [TBC] The US President (Samuel L. Jackson) is on the run from terrorists in this gripping action-adventure set in remote Finland. Oskari is a 13-year-old Finnish boy, who, while on a hunting mission to prove his maturity, discovers none other than the President of the United States (Samuel L. Jackson) in the wilderness of Finland. It transpires that he has just escaped from Air Force One after the Presidential jet was attacked and grounded by terrorists. Stranded on the ground without his normal security back-up, the President must rely on the cooperation of young Oskari against the terrorists, who are intent on capturing their own ‘big game’. Samuel L. Jackson headlines as the US President in this adrenalinsoaked adventure movie from Finnish director Jalmari Helander. 14 MAY

Mad Max: Fury Road [TBC] Action man Tom Hardy plays the iconic Road Warrior in the fourth adrenaline-driven Mad Max thriller. In a stark and parched post-apocalyptic landscape, taciturn anti-hero Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy) meets his shaven-headed female counterpart Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) who needs to cross the desert to get home. Writer/director George Miller revives the Mad Max series after 30 years with this hyper-kinetic chase movie. Boasting amazing visuals and an intense performance from Tom Hardy, Mad Max: Fury Road promises to be a worthy sequel to one of the all-time great action franchises.

Love cinema? Join the club.

MORE BENEFITS Preferential Discounts in Cinema Exclusive Advance Screenings Discounted Meals & Shopping Visit www.cineworld.co.uk to join!

Only our Unlimited Card gives you all the films you can handle – from £16.40 a month.

WIN TICKETS! Courtesy of Cineworld Cheltenham we have five pairs of tickets to give away to lucky readers of The Local Answer. For your chance to be a winner, just enter our draw – details below. The tickets can be used for a film of your choice before the end of 2015. To enter our draw to win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Cineworld’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details stating ‘Cineworld’ to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015. 29 MAY

San Andreas [TBC] A helicopter pilot embarks on a hazardous mission to rescue his daughter after a huge earthquake strikes the California coast. All hell breaks lose after California’s famous San Andreas fault gives way, triggering an earthquake that is so huge its repercussions can be felt on the opposite coast of America. After the earthquake strikes, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, it’s up to helicopter rescue pilot Ray (Dwayne Johnson) to reunite with his estranged wife Emma (Carla Gugino) in order to rescue their daughter Blake (Alexandra Daddario). 15 MAY

Pitch Perfect 2 [12A] Now in their senior year, the Barden Bellas are back to compete in an international a cappella competition that no American group has ever won before. Following an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction that sees Fat Amy (Rebel Wilson) expose herself at an event to celebrate the US President’s birthday, the Barden Bellas attempt to restore their tarnished reputation by entering the World Championships, which sees them competing against European champions Das Sound Machine from Germany. Directed by Elizabeth Banks, co-star and producer of Pitch Perfect, Pitch Perfect 2 follows Beca (Anna Kendrick) and the gang through their final year and sees many of the original cast reprising their roles, including Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Anna Camp, Brittany Snow, Hana Mae Lee and Alexis Knapp. 22 MAY

Tomorrowland: A World Beyond [TBC] Disney presents an epic adventure beyond imagination starring George Clooney and newcomer Britt Robertson. Rebellious yet intelligent teenager Casey (Britt Robertson) brims with scientific potential. Nevertheless, she’s startled when she comes into possession of a mysterious pin, one that, when she touches it, transports her to a mysterious futuristic world. The inquisitive Casey is determined to discover more about where the pin came from, and the name of the world it reveals. She soon tracks down reclusive Frank (George Clooney), a former boy genius inventor who reluctantly tells her all about the enigmatic Tomorrowland – a remarkable place where anything is possible. However, this knowledge soon puts both Frank and Casey in danger, and an exciting chase ensues as they attempt to travel to Tomorrowland and save the future of mankind.

The Brewery Oxford Passage St Margaret’s Road Cheltenham GL50 4EF

11screens 3D

To book call 0871 200 2000 or visit www.cineworld.co.uk

WIN TICKETS! courtesy of the bacon theatre

A triumphant partnership The Bacon Theatre is delighted to screen Pride [15] the “terrific British film that is set to be the next The Full Monty” (The Times) on Tuesday 19th May. It’s the summer of 1984, Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers are on strike. At the Gay Pride march in London a group of gay and lesbian activists decide to raise money to support the families of the striking miners. But there is a problem. The Union seems embarrassed to receive their support. Not deterred, the activists identify a mining village in deepest Wales and set off in a mini bus to make their donation in person. And so begins the extraordinary story of two seemingly alien communities who form a triumphant partnership, featuring an all-star British cast including Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton. Tickets cost just £6.50 (£5.50 for concessions) and may be booked online at bacontheatre.co.uk or by calling 01242 258002. To enter our draw to win a pair of tickets, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘Pride’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Pride’. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015. ORCHESTRA OF ST JOHN’S The OSJ is represented by a string chamber orchestra and contralto soloist, Francesca Saracino. Performing a programme of two very well known works for strings, combined with a lesser known miniature masterpiece by Ottorino Respighi, ‘Il Tramonto’, this is sure to be another evening of sublime music making. 7.30pm. £14 (£12 concessions, £5 under 18s). Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. THE DREAMBOYS

If you’re looking for the very best girls night out in the UK, look no further than these incredible stripping hunks. An action packed 2 hour show from start to finish, these boys will literally have you begging for more! This is one action packed show full of music, muscle, magic and mayhem that will leave you breathless which you simply cannot afford to miss! Featuring

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Dan Osborne from ‘The Only Way Is Essex’. Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 8 MAY MARY SPENDER Playing beautiful songs of Blues, Folk and Easy Listening. Fantastic Guitar work and harmonizing vocals. Her album Faux Americana is fantastic and has been getting some amazing reviews, also described as one to watch by Seasick Steve. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 9 MAY BUDDHISM FOR BEGINNERS

Whaddon Road, Cheltenham GL52 5NE. 01242 269807. Book online: meditationincheltenham.org.uk. £22 (£15). GLOUCESTERSHIRE VS CORNWALL Gloucestershire rugby will begin their 2015 County Championship campaign at home to last year’s runners up Cornwall at Cinderford RFC’s Dockham Road ground. Over its long history, the county have an impressive tournament record and, with your support, are aiming to win at Twickenham in 2015. Everyone welcome. Entrance fee applies. Dockham Road, Cinderford GL14 2AQ. 9 & 16 MAY BIRDSONG WORKSHOP

Find out more about the basics of Buddhist view and practice and why it remains relevant and helpful to our busy modern life. There will be time to do some basic meditation and to enjoy a vegetarian lunch on this relaxed but informative day. Akanishta KBC, 59

Join our wardens to explore the Reserve at one of the most productive times of the year. Learn how to identify these birds by sound as each one has a most beautiful call and song. £20 including full English breakfast. 7-10am. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223.

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

The Local Answer

Mamma Mia, here we go again! The world’s number one Abba Show ‘Bjorn Again’ will appear at Eastnor Castle on Saturday 25th July at 7.30pm (gates open 5pm), and what a show it promises to be! Created in Melbourne, Australia by Rod Stephen and John Tyrell, the group has performed at many large rock festivals worldwide including Reading, Knebworth and Glastonbury. They have appeared at sell-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall, and in the summer annually at Kew Gardens. Other occasions include private performances for celebrities, such as parties for top golfer Colin Montgommerie, Microsoft’s Bill Gates, comedian and actor Rowan Atkinson, as well as actor Russell Crowe’s wedding! They have even appeared at a function in Russia for President Vladimir Putin! Now the sell-out world acclaimed show comes to Eastnor Castle where ‘Bjorn Again’ will bring the Deer Park Concert arena alive with all the ABBA hits, including ‘Waterloo’, ‘Mamma Mia’ and – of course – ‘Thank You For The Music’. Event Director for the concert Colin Ward said: “We wanted to present a big concert, but one which appealed to all ages, and which generates a real party atmosphere – ‘Bjorn Again’ will certainly achieve that. As past concerts have proved, once they take to the stage, the public wont let them leave – it’s an amazing experience!” Special guests will be Eurovision Song Competition winners ‘Brotherhood of Man’, performing their winning song ‘Save all your kisses for me’.

The Local Answer

WIN TICKETS! For your chance to win four tickets to the ‘Bjorn Again’ concert at Eastnor Castle simply answer the question: For which famous actor’s wedding did ‘Bjorn Again’ appear? Send your answer along with your name, address and telephone number to ‘Bjorn Again’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Bjorn Again’. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015.

To advertise call 01242 510500

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Join Adam Henson and Ellie Harrison for the 2015 CHELTENHAM CHALLENGE

SUNDAY 21st JUNE 2015

All standards welcome 5k, 5k Wheelchair Race, 10k, Half, Full & Ultra Marathon Event organised by Kindly sponsored by

Support CCP, or one of our other charity partners:

National Star

/CheltChallenge

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The Local Answer

9-10 MAY MY FIRST BALLET SWAN LAKE

The evil magician Rothbart has turned the beautiful princess Odette into a swan: only at night can she return to human form. Will Prince Siegfried be able to save her, or will he fall for Rothbart’s sorcery? Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 10 MAY CLASSICS AT PRESCOTT

Cleeve Vale Rotary charity event. Over 250 cars including Alvis, Buckler, Ferrari, Gilbern, HondaNSX, Lagonda, Lanchester, Midas, Morgan, Riley, Porsche, TVR will be driving the hill. From 10am. Spectators £15 per car. GL52 9RD. 01242 672942. cleevevale.org.uk. RHUM AND CLAY: A STRANGE WILD SONG Three children encounter a lost WW2 soldier in Northern France and, decades later, the soldier’s camera is unearthed by

his grandson. He discovers a world of childhood and imagination as fragments of war explode into the present day. Rhum and Clay present a new version of their critically-acclaimed show. Fusing cinematic imagery, absurdist humour and a mischievous sense of joy, this is an unforgettably touching story about finding light in the darkest of places. £14 (£12). 7.30pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 12-16 MAY THE PHEONIX PLAYERS PRESENT: AURELIA Directed by Phil Jones. A stylish, edge-ofyour-seat crime thriller with deceit, robbery, blackmail and (of course) murder – with a comic twist! 7.30pm. Tickets from £5-9. Call 01452 522795. The Kings Theatre, GL1 1QX. LORD OF THE DANCE Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games – a spectacular new staging of the traditional master piece – returns to the UK for a nationwide tour. Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 13 MAY PHIL KING A singer songwriter of Folk with an incredible appeal to his audiences no matter who or where they are. Raw, soulful vocals, and brilliant guitar work. We are looking forward to the show! Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 13-14 MAY GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESS SHOW One of the county’s biggest Business to Business events. Over 100 local businesses and organisations have signed up to be part of Gloucestershire’s biggest show, which promises to be a fantastic event for exhibitors and visitors alike. £20 including entry on both days plus many of the seminars and workshops. Visit www.gloucestershire-business-show.co.uk for details.

13-16 MAY ROMEO AND JULIET This is a story of boy meets girl. But it is not a simple love story. These children’s lives are fuelled by mistakes, hatred, violence and exquisite pain. They are entangled in the infamous family feud without a hope of getting out alive. And yet we cannot help but hope. 2pm and 7.45pm. From £13. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. 14 MAY MAN AND SUPERMAN

Ralph Fiennes plays Jack Tanner in this exhilarating reinvention of Shaw’s witty, provocative classic. A romantic comedy, an epic fairy-tale and a fiery philosophical debate, in turn. Jack Tanner, celebrated radical thinker and rich bachelor, seems an unlikely choice as guardian to the alluring heiress, Ann. But she takes it in her assured stride and decides to marry and tame this dazzling revolutionary. £16 (£14), students £12. 7pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. 15 MAY MYDESIGN MyDesign are a hugely hard working rock and pop cover band who offer something a little different! Playing covers from a wide range of artists the crowd are always guaranteed a good time, with plenty of songs to recognise, from the 1980s to bang up to date. A night of pleasing rocked up re-works of classic songs you all wanted to forget! Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340.

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The Local Answer

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with every E-Cigarette Starter Kit purchased with this voucher during May 2015

Unit 16, Lansdown Trading Estate, Cheltenham GL51 8PL and 10 Albion Street, Cheltenham GL52 2LP Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri & 9am-3pm Sat

www.spavapes.co.uk

T: 01242 210555 E: info@spavapes.co.uk To advertise call 01242 510500

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16 MAY CHARITY FAIR IN AID OF LINC & CANCER RESEARCH Selling an eclectic mix of ‘Junk, Posh Junk and very Posh Junk’. Items from attic to cellar for home, garden and wardrobe from 20+ stallholders to include small antique and shabby chic furniture, vintage and modern fashion, antique jewellery, greetings cards, fun t-shirts, spa products , toys, bric a brac, etc. 10am-3pm, Entry £1, children free, parking. Contact Jan, 07776 255208. Holy Apostles Hall, London Road, Charlton Kings, GL52 6HD. PAWS ON PATROL

Paws on Patrol in Gloucester Park from 12 noon. Displays from Police Dogs, The Quack Pack, Serve On Rescue and LG Agility. Free to enter dog show, lots of stalls and fun activities. Free entry. See www.safergloucester.co.uk.

THE MAGNIFICENT AK47 A male voice choir who offer serious singing together with profound insights into modern male angst. From serious Georgian choral pieces to daft Caribbean doggerel. They are attracted to the musically irreverent and absurd and perform wearing a variety of hats. They sing all sorts of material a capella, creating a sound that has been praised by their toughest critics – their wives – as “surprisingly good”! Supported by The Croutons. 8pm. £8 (£7 concessions) in advance or £10 (£8) on the door., £5 under 18s. Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. DARK ISLAND

Husband and wife duo Dave Scott, usually known as Scotty (guitar, vocals, bouzouki and bass) and Alex West (vocals, flute,

alto and soprano saxophones and piano) 7:30–10pm. Stroud Brewery, Unit 11 (off Hope Mill Lane), London Road, Stroud, GL5 2BU. 01453 887122. stroudbrewery.co.uk 17 MAY BIRD WATCH MORNING

Spring is a magical time on the Reserve with many birds settling down to raise a family on the banks and adjoining fields of the river Severn. Join our wardens as they aim to show the group some of the more special species such as redshank, lapwing, song birds such as warblers, sparrow hawk, Kingfishers and maybe the illusive cuckoo. £15.95 including tea/coffee and bacon roll. 8-10.30am. WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223.

Museum in the Park

Stroud District (Cowle) Museum – a Stroud District Council Service

Gallery One – Power of Ten Exhibi on – part of the Select Fes val 2015 which showcases tex les & contemporary cra s.

Free admission Saturday 2 – Monday 25 May Tuesday – Friday 10am – 5pm Weekends 11am – 5pm (closed Mondays, except Bank Holidays)

An example of work by Shuna Rendel – who trained under the sculptor Anthony Caro at Central Saint Mar"ns in London. For more informa"on about The Select Spring Fes"val in Stroud go to www.sitselect.org

“Challenging, thought provoking and exci ng” is how Lizzi Walton, the director of this annual fes val, describes the Power of Ten exhibi on. Its curator Andy Chris an, says he deliberately sought out the work of ten ar sts who specialise in unse ling their audience. The resul ng collec on may leave visitors to the exhibi on viewing the world in a slightly diﬀerent way. He has tried to avoid the decora ve in favour of works that may provoke a sense of disquiet or invoke wonder.

The Museum in the Park, Gallery 1, Stra!ord Park, Stroud, Glos GL5 4AF.

Tel: 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk

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The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 43

19 MAY PRIDE

It’s the summer of 1984, Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers are on strike. At the Gay Pride march in London a group of gay and lesbian activists decide to raise money to support the families of the striking miners and set off in a mini bus to a mining village in deepest Wales. And so begins the extraordinary story of two seemingly alien communities who form a surprising and ultimately triumphant partnership. £6.50 (£5.50). 7.45pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002. HORSES INSIDE OUT Join Cheltenham Equine Vets for an evening of art and education as Dr Gillian Higgins uses anatomically painted horses to help us understand how horses move. Visit cheltenhamequinevets.co.uk to

complete a registration form or email info@cheltenhamequinevets.co.uk. £10 to pay on the door (prebook places). 6.308.30pm. Cotswold Riding for the Disabled, Jackie Brutton Riding School, Prestbury Park Racecourse, Cheltenham GL50 4SH. 19-23 MAY SISTER ACT Based on the hit 1992 film, this vibrant musical comedy tells the story of the determined but unsuccessful nightclub singer Deloris van Cartier. When she accidently witnesses a murder at the hands of her boyfriend, she is placed in witness protection and taken to the last place Curtis and his three stooges will find her – a convent! 7.30pm (2pm matinee Sat). From £13. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE CAR MAN

2000, winning the Evening Standard Award for ‘Musical Event of the Year’. The Car Man is loosely based on Bizet’s popular opera and has one of the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertory, brilliantly arranged by Terry Davies. Bristol Hippodrome, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 20 MAY WILL EDMUNDS TRIO A blues rock outfit from Bristol playing songs that have a strong, sometimes harsh, edge that is soothed by the vocals of Will. Playing original songs as well as interpretations of some of their favourite Blues tracks. A fresh band with a fresh sound. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 21 MAY 2015/16 MAYOR’S CHARITY APPEAL LAUNCH Join Councillor Duncan Smith, Mayor Elect of Cheltenham, for wine and canapés at the 2015/16 charity launch appeal. This year’s fundraising activities will help support two local charities – Maggie’s and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled. 6.30pm. Maggie’s Centre, The Lodge, College Baths Road, GL53 7QB. RSVP by Friday 15th May to Jennie Ingram – 01242 264108 or jennie.ingram@cheltenham.gov.uk.

Fasten your seat belts... The Car Man is back! Matthew Bourne’s internationally acclaimed dance thriller was first seen in

Spring Fayre

One of the world’s most unusual heritage sites

Saturday 9th May 2015 ~ 10am-4pm ~

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! FREE PARKING & FREE BUS ◆ Live Music ◆ Budding Real Ale ◆ Children’s Games ◆ Gifts ◆ Bouncy Castle ◆ Raffle ◆ Tombola ◆ Servants Hall ◆ Morris Dancers and much more! Guided Tours of the Mansion will be available on the day – it’s a ‘must see’! Page 44

Exciting events for 2015

Hawk Walks ● Bat Walks ● Shakespeare’s Plays ● Theatrical Evenings ● Operatic Performances ● Musical Events ● Ghost Walks ● Photo Shoots Woodchester Mansion is available to hire for events ●

Woodchester Mansion Woodchester Park, Nympsfield Gloucestershire GL10 3TS Telephone: 01453 861541

www.woodchestermansion.org.uk lisa.jamieson@woodchestermansion.org.uk

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The Local Answer

courtesy of West Midlands Safari Park

WIN TICKETS!

mile, self-drive safari is home to a variety of wild and wonderful animals such as Indian rhinos, lions, tigers, giraffes and elephants – including the adorable baby elephant Sutton who is nearly a year old!

One of the most dramatic walk-through Dinosaur exhibits in the UK is now open at West Midland Safari Park and we have five family tickets to give away. “Land of the Living Dinosaurs” is the very latest, most adventurous exhibit to open at the Park. Costing £2.5m, the immersive walking trail features 38 life-size animatronic dinosaurs, each with moving eyes, mouth and neck. From the first moment of glimpsing the skeleton of a mighty T-Rex at the entrance, the scene is set for an extraordinary journey through the reign of the dinosaur. It plays with the senses and truly gives the feeling of walking amongst beasts that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. There’s the chance to meet some of the most formidable creatures that made history including the curious Dilophosaurus, fearsome Gorgonops and Argentinosaurus at 30 metres long. A life size adult Tyrannosaurus Rex elevated on 4m rockwork casts a dramatic shadow, whilst the impressive Sarcosuchus represents one of the largest crocodile-like creatures thought to have ever lived. Sound effects indicative of the lost world add atmosphere, whilst static fossil displays, exotic planting, a volcanic vent and three pools intensify the whole experience. As well as visiting this brand new exhibit there are discoveries of the animal variety around every corner, too. The inspiring four-

There are some marvelous attractions to visit on foot, too! Lorikeet Landing is one of the latest and is the place where you will encounter free flying rainbow lorikeets in a tropically themed exhibit. There’s also Penguin Cove, along with a variety of splendid other attractions like Mark O’Shea’s Reptile World, Seaquarium and Sea Lion Theatre, with live Sea Lion shows performed several times each day. Last but not least, is Meerkat Mayhem. This exhibit has glass walls to allow the perfect viewing opportunity of these lovely little animals. Each ticket is valid for four people to visit on one occasion up to 6th November 2015 (Theme Park rides not included) and includes admission to the safari, Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters, African Village and live shows. Usual admission: £19.99 (adults), £14.99 (children) and £17.99 (concessions.) Children under 3 years admitted free. (Rides extra). For more information visit www.wmsp.co.uk. To enter our draw to win a family ticket, send your name, address and telephone number to ‘West Midlands Safari Park’, The Local Answer, 1 Ullenwood Court, Cheltenham, GL53 9QS. Alternatively, enter via email by sending your details to competitions@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘West Midlands Safari Park’. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015.

22 MAY COMEDY ALLSTARS MC Tony Vino, Wes Zaharuk and Sean Percival aim to entertain in this night of comedy. Age 18+. 8pm. £10 in advance (£14 on the door). Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. subscriptionrooms.org.uk. SEAS OF MIRTH A nautical 9 piece of rugged, misplaced corsairs with a vigorous galleon of sound. Playing a plethora of styles from folk, rock, gypsy, pop, psyche to even a tinge of afro-beat. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 23 MAY CONCERT FOR A MAY HOLIDAY Elgar’s ‘Scenes from the Bavarian Highlands’, Vaughan Williams’ ‘Five Mystical Songs’ and Sibelius’ ‘Finlandia’. Charlton Kings Choral Society and Cheltenham Symphony Orchestra. 7:30pm. Holy Apostles Church, London Road, Cheltenham GL52 6HW. 01451 822110. STRETCH Stretch opens his American songbook and combines warm harmonica melodies and acoustic guitar to recollect folk and country favourites of Americana, from Neil young to Johnny Cash, John Denver to Gordon Lightfoot. 7:30–10.30pm. Stroud Brewery, Unit 11 (off Hope Mill Lane),

The Local Answer

Perfect viewing opportunities

London Road, Stroud, GL5 2BU. 01453 887122. stroudbrewery.co.uk ABBA TRIBUTE NIGHT

A chance to sing your heart out to the famous songs of ABBA, with the number one award winning tribute act “ABBA Revival”. £29.50 per person. Includes 2course dinner and entertainment. Hallmark Hotel Gloucester, Matson Lane, Robinswood Hill, GL4 6EA. 01452 525653. hallmarkhotels.co.uk. BOOK SALE IN THE CLOISTERS Come along to our annual book sale in aid of the Cathedral Breakfast Club, which provides hot meals for the homeless every week. 10am-3pm. Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. A TAPESTRY OF ENGLISH CHORAL MUSIC A celebration of composers who have been part of the fabric of Gloucester Cathedral, followed by some of the greatest composers of 20th century English Sacred Choral music. 7pm. Tickets from

To advertise call 01242 510500

£10 (www.gloucesterchoral.com). Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. 23-24 MAY STONE CARVING FESTIVAL Cat’s Eye Carving presents The Gloucester Stone Carving Festival at The Llanthony Secunda Priory in Gloucester. Live stone carving, pop-up shops, activities, auction and grand raffle. 10am-6pm. Free entry. stonecarvingfestival.co.uk. 23-31 MAY DOWNY DUCKLING DAYS

Go behind-the-scenes of our busy duckery to learn how we rear hundreds of young birds each year and see many of the fluffy ducklings, goslings and cygnets. On the tour learn all about eggs and see inside one using a technique called candling. Visit the newly hatched ducklings inside the duckery and in the outdoor enclosures. Price included in admission. WWT Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223.

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A rollercoaster of a ride At the heart of any sporting club is its fans and no club know this better than Gloucester Rugby. Renowned for having the best supporters in the Aviva Premiership, Gloucester Rugby continues to build a reputation as the spiritual home of rugby. Our players will tell you that there is no better feeling than knowing that the fans are behind them 100%. The 2014/15 season has been a rollercoaster of a ride as the new team have come together under a totally new coaching set-up. From the frustrations and despair of the Bath game to the

25 MAY WIND IN THE WILLOWS Enjoy outdoor theatre in a beautiful setting as Dreamshed Theatre return to perform the ‘Further Adventures of The Wind in the Willows’ in the arboretum. Shows take place at 12 noon and 1.30pm, arboretum entrance fee applies. 01386 701441 for details. Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB. 26-27 MAY BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET

Three separate programs of spectacular ballet in one evening, including tango rhythms, colourful characters, and bestloved moments, all performed to live music from members of the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. 7.45pm (2pm matinee

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WIN TICKETS! The Singa 7s comes to Kingsholm Stadium on Thursday 20th August. For your chance to win a family ticket simply answer the following question: What was the final score when Gloucester Rugby took on Connacht in the European Rugby Semi Final at Kingsholm Stadium on Friday 3rd April? Send your answer, name, email address and contact number to competitions@gloucesterrugby.co.uk.

drama and Euphoria of the Saracens match, our fans have been with us every step of the way. Their heart and patience has been instrumental in getting the team to where they are. Club Membership offers the best value ticket prices across the season with guaranteed access to all Aviva Premiership, Cup pool matches along with the Singha 7s, pre-season friendlies and Aviva A-League matches. The cost of the membership can be spread across up to eight months with an interest free Don’t forget to mention you’re direct debit option (eight months a reader of The Local Answer! available until 12th May) and up to 5% discount available on Membership until 30th June. To book your Club Membership for season 2015/16 call the ticket office on 0871 871 8781* option 2. GLOUCESTER RUGBY *Calls to this number Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Road cost 10p from a BT Kingsholm, Gloucester GL1 3AX Landline, calls from t 0871 871 87 81 other networks may e admin@gloucesterrugby.co.uk w www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk vary. Wednesday). From £13. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. 26 MAY – 13 JUNE JERSEY BOYS

The true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound, and sold 175 million records worldwide. Featuring hit after legendary hit including ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’, ‘Oh What a Night’, ‘Sherry’, ‘Walk Like a Man’, ‘Bye Bye Baby’, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ and many more, Jersey Boys is a story full of heart and humour. Bristol Hippodrome, St Augustines Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012. atgtickets.com/bristol. 27 MAY MISCHA Usually on stage with the ‘merry men’, Mischa is a musician who has a high energy stage presence playing Folk songs. His mission is to bring back community,

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generate unity and encourage good ethics through his words, music, passion and love. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340. 27 & 30 MAY FAIRY AND WIZARD WORLD

Children can create their own miniature fairy grottos and their own special make belief home for wizards and faries in the activities tent! 01452 812727. thebirdpark.com. 29 MAY SOLANA An instrumental gypsy-folk band hailing from all corners of Europe, their style reflects the diversity of their backgrounds and interests. Their sound encompasses folk, swing, klezmer, flamenco, latin, reggae and trip-hop. Their live shows combine intricate arrangements with energetic performances and healthy doses of improvisation. Café René, 31 Southgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1TP. 01452 309340.

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9-13 JUNE

During a 3-day period of isolation without cigarettes, alcohol or access to the outside world, Mena reflects on the journey that took her from a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church to a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the civil rights movement. 7.30pm. £12 (£10 concessions). Subscription Rooms, George Street, GL5 1AE. 01453 760900. 5-14 JUNE BURFORD FESTIVAL 2015 The Festival’s 50 events feature music of all kinds (contemporary, baroque, choral), an outdoor production of Twelfth Night, a theatrical installation project, 25 open gardens, tours, talks by authors and a fascinating range of other speakers. See www.burfordfestival.org for details.

HMS PINAFORE AND COX & BOX Presented by The Cotswold Savoyards. You’ll be familiar with HMSP but probably not C&B. It’s a fast moving story of two men renting the same room without knowledge of the other. Cox works days and Box nights. Cox has a day off finding Box and mayhem ensues! 7.30pm (2pm Sat mat). £13-£19. Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573. everymantheatre.org.uk. 13 JUNE SACRED HEARTS ANNUAL SUMMER FETE Live Music by the Jazz Shed, Ukes Anon, dancing by Janet Marshall and Danceworks. Bouncy castle for children, children’s games, hobby horse racing, pimms tent, BBQ, nearly new toys, books,

Wander through our blooming Japanese Flowering Cherries and be amazed by the beautiful Davidia ‘Handkerchief’ Tree. Enjoy freshlybaked food and quality, affordable plants, gardening supplies and gifts. A perfect spring day out for all the family – dog friendly too! Visit our website for details of our forthcoming events – including our outdoor theatre performance of Wind in the Willows! BATSFORD ARBORETUM AND GARDEN CENTRE Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire GL56 9AB Telephone 01386 701441 Email: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk www.batsarb.co.uk The Local Answer

plant stall etc. 12 noon to 3pm. Sacred Hearts Catholic Church, Moorend Road, Charlton Kings GL53 9AU. Visit Facebook: Sacred Hearts Catholic Church Charlton Kings Summer Fete. COLN VALLEY MIXED DOUBLES ANNUAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT A sociable day of traditional tennis played in Chedworth and on courts in surrounding villages. Sponsored by Savills. Raises funds for Hill and Valley LTC and the churches of the Hill and Valley benefice. Deadline for entries: 7th June. Entry fee £35 (£28 if received by 24th May). Details and entry form: chedworth.org.uk/tennis or call Allison Stock: 01451 860903. 70S THEMED PARTY NIGHT Dust off those flares and get your boogie on. Includes a welcome drink, 70s music and chef’s choice of buffet. Prize for best dressed. £15 per person. Hallmark Hotel, Matson Lane, GL4 6EA. 01452 525653. hallmarkhotels.co.uk. 20 JUNE FAMILY FUN DAY – OLD PATS CLUB A fun filled day for all the family, with organised novelty sports and races, tag rugby, BBQ, bouncy castle, face painting, a grand raffle with a Star Prize up for grabs, and more. Free admission. 3pm. Patesians Sports & Social Club. Everest Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham.

Shipton Golf Course

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Page 49

Picture Perfect Cutest Kid

Thanks to all of you who sent in your wonderful pictures to enter our ‘Cutest Kid’ competition. Congratulations to Kelly Wynne of Tewkesbury who submitted the winning image (above) of her son, Maxwell George Martin! She has won £100 worth of vouchers to spend at Smyths Toys Superstore. Some of our other favourites are pictured below and above right.

£300 WORTH OF BEER TO WIN FOR YOUR DAD! The theme for our June competition is ‘Most Embarrassing Dad’! All you need to do is submit a funny/embarrassing photograph of your dad and you could win £300 worth of beer for him – a perfect Father’s Day gift. Courtesy of the great local breweries featured here, the winner will receive 24 bottles of beer from each of them – yes, 120 bottles in total! To enter, email your photo along with your name, address and telephone number to editorial@thelocalanswer.co.uk, stating ‘Most Embarrassing Dad’. One entry per person. You must ask permission to take photos of anyone or their belongings. See Index page for full competition rules. Closing date: Thursday 14th May 2015.

Goffs Brewery 01242 603383 sales@goffsbrewery.com www.goffsbrewery.com

Battledown Brewery Donnington Brewery Wickwar Brewing Co Gloucester Brewery 01242 693409/07734 834104 battledown@hotmail.co.uk www.battledownbrewery.com

01451 830603 info@donningtonales.com www.donnington-brewery.com

01454 299592 shop@wickwarbrewing.co.uk www.wickwarbrewing.co.uk

01452 668043/07503 152749 www.gloucesterbrewery.co.uk www.tankgloucester.co.uk

Page 52

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The Local Answer

Motoring with Christian Tilbury

Breathe easy this summer With warmer weather just around the corner, now could be the ideal time to give your car’s air conditioning a spring clean. While your car no longer has to do battle with the winter’s plummeting temperatures, ice, salt and snow, the summer months can still throw a few curve balls when it comes to ruining your driving enjoyment. Sudden summer showers can expose weaknesses in windscreen wipers and tyres, while cooling systems need to be thoroughly checked if you’re to avoid being stranded at the roadside when the mercury rises. What’s often overlooked in the preparations for a summer getaway or days out though, is ensuring that your

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car’s air conditioning is up to scratch. Once the preserve of luxury cars, air conditioning has become a ‘musthave’ for many car buyers and so popular is it that it’s now standard in the vast majority of new vehicles – even those at the lower end of the market. Considering how desirable motorists find air conditioning then, it’s surprising at how many people fail to maintain it. This oversight can be partly blamed on the fact an inefficient air conditioning system won’t cause a breakdown or rule your car unroadworthy, but as with a great deal of components on your car it does require regular attention. Come the summer months it’s common practise for car dealers to roll out forecourt banners detailing how little it’ll cost to make your air conditioning blow ice cold and, to be fair, it’s not just another opportunity to upsell something that isn’t entirely necessary. In fact, getting your air conditioning refreshed can be good for your health! Many garages and fast-fit outfits offer a recharge service but ideally you want an anti-bacterial treatment as part of the deal. This will rid your car’s air conditioning of any harmful impurities and also reduce the effects

of any airborne allergies. Reckon on about £80 for such a service. Opinion is split on how often air conditioning systems need servicing but many car manufacturers recommend every two to three years, although any odours are a sure sign it’s overdue. By getting it done you’ll stop the refrigeration gases from getting too low and potentially damaging the system’s costly components. If you own a new car it’s also worth checking to see if such a service is necessary to keep the system under warranty. So, if it’s something you haven’t considered and especially as it won’t break the bank, an air conditioning service could literally be a breath of fresh air when it comes to making your summer journeys as pleasant as possible.

To advertise call 01242 510500

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The Local Answer

Property View The Cheltenham property market remains strong with new instructions selling swiftly. But whilst there is no shortage of buyers waiting in the wings, the stock of property coming to the market still remains seasonally low. The impending general election may be making some people sit on their hands as they await the outcome but in my view , if you are thinking of moving this spring/summer, there may not have been a better time to do so for many years. Interest rates remain at an historic low and mortgage lending, whilst being slightly down year on year in February – possibly due to the application of the new affordability

This month’s view on the local property market is provided by Rob Toomey of Cheltenham estate agents Carver Knowles CARVER KNOWLES ESTATE AGENTS 2 Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QB

01242 698000 www.cheltenham-estate-agents.com rules – is expected “to improve in the coming months as employment and earnings continue to pick up and the impact of recent stamp duty reforms start to feed through”, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML). These reforms are much fairer

and could save you hundreds if not thousands of pounds. Cheltenham has, for many years now, been known as a property hotspot and not surprising in light of the recent Telegraph survey that placed our town at the top of the league of best places to bring up a family in the UK. The survey cited: “Excellent schooling, low crime rates, a thriving sporting culture and a bustling town centre all make Cheltenham a natural place for families with children.” It is a festival town, so there always seem to be special children’s events to look forward to. Both the lido and the delightful Pittville Park are deservedly popular. Indeed, we know it’s a lovely place to live but it can’t do our property market or our local economy any harm to have it shouted out on a national and worldwide stage. The property market locally can only benefit from such acclaim but it is also bolstered by a wider national market stability and a recovering economy, which is now helping to increase confidence throughout the UK. House builders are back in a big way to meet with the ever increasing demand; first-time buyers are also returning, many being assisted by government backed schemes; investors are investing more than ever and the future just gets brighter and brighter. Whatever your reasons and wherever you are living in Cheltenham and the surrounding villages, now is a good time to move!

Pittville Sales & Lettings www.pittvilleproperty.co.uk The fair priced agent – Why go anywhere else?

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29 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 2PP The Local Answer

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Page 55

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Your Personal Estate Agent – Friendly, Professional & Reliable Looking to choose an Estate Agent? With a whopping 73 agents in Cheltenham it’s hard to make a choice, so let us take the worry out of the search and find out why 70% of our business has been referrals from previous clients! House-moves was established in 2013 as a mother daughter duo and has since expanded due to its success. We are registered with the NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents) and are part of the Property ombudsman, which means we guarantee the best possible customer service and are regulated. We provide all of our clients with regular communication throughout the sales process, whether that’s providing feedback from viewings, negotiating you the best price or seeing how your solicitors are progressing – we’ll keep you informed at every stage.

You matter – we care Because we keep our property portfolio at small numbers, this enables us to give you the very best service. To us you’re not just a number! We achieve you the best possible price for your property by setting out a realistic price from the start to avoid disappointing interest and long periods of being on the market. Our local office is based in Cheltenham, which makes it convenient for clients to call in and have a chat. We have extensive knowledge of the area and a strong history of selling houses throughout all areas of Cheltenham! Call us today to see how we can help you and why not join a long list of happy house sellers!

TAKE A LOOK ONLINE AT OUR 5-STAR REVIEWS! Ryan Newman ★★★★★ A very professional service offered and all staff were helpful throughout. Stayed in contact at all times during the purchase and was kept up to date. Very efficient and highly recommended. Excellent. Many thanks! Chrissie Head ★★★★★ Friendly, professional, reliable service. Great local knowledge and a passion for selling houses. Lucy Bee ★★★★★ Absolutely thrilled that the sale of my flat in Cheltenham went so smoothly and quickly with House-Moves! Fantastic service. Phil Collins ★★★★★ Very professional and friendly service. A great team who care about giving top service. Flat sale went very smoothly thanks to these ladies. Well done and thank you!

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Enjoy endless holidays in your own holiday home Norton Park is an exciting brand new development of Luxury Holiday Homes and is a member of The British Holiday and Home Parks Association. The Park nestles in a quiet secluded position at the foot of the Cotswold Hills, with stunning views over the Gloucestershire countryside close to local attractions and amenities. It is the perfect tranquil setting for your relaxation and a perfect opportunity to unwind from life’s pressures.

Pictured left to right are Camping Manager John Chard with William, Bonnie and Sean Gorman.

The park is run by Camping Manager John Chard, owner Sean Gorman and his wife Bonnie, their sons John and William and daugther-in-law Paris. There are places for 32 luxury holiday homes, each with a choice of size and internal layout. Every holiday home is of a very high quality with a sumptuous spacious luxury interior and at least two bedrooms. Furthermore, each home is equipped with mains electricity, running water and sewerage together with an adjacent parking space and garden area, and is licensed for use 365 days a year. The warden is resident on site and the entrance is controlled by password protected electric gates and active CCTV for your complete security and peace of mind. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the park and the homes are pet friendly. Norton Park is perfectly situated near an M5 motorway junction, and only a short drive from the Midlands, Warwickshire and Oxfordshire. Only minutes from a stunning riverside pub nestling on the banks of the Severn, just imagine enjoying a quiet drink on a summer evening with the water gently flowing a few feet away. Sale prices start from £27,500. Alternatively, rental prices are just £550pcm including ground maintenance and security. To arrange a viewing of some of the luxury holiday homes already on site, call Norton Park for more information.

w 5 Ne 01 r2 fo HOLIDAY LICENSED FOR 365 DAYS A YEAR! Caravan Park Norton Park also provides hard standing secure storage facilities for large vehicles including caravans, motor homes, boats and horse boxes. With an owner living on-site, secure lock-ups, key pad entry and 24-hour CCTV, you can rest-assured your vehicle will be looked after. This is a pay as you go service with no minimum or maximum time frame for storage. For details please call Bonnie (01452 731285) or John (07463 737404).

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The Local Answer

Quality glass supplied and installed - great prices! From greenhouse glass to double glazing and more...

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FLAIRLINE DECORATING SERVICES

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The Local Answer

Interior Design with Vicky Walker

Choosing the perfect sofa Choosing the sofa that suits you, your family and home can be rather a minefield because there are so many different designs and sizes to choose from. Here are some ideas to keep in mind when purchasing a sofa.

1. SHAPE There are lots of designs out there, but when it comes to the crunch I would recommend choosing a timeless classic which will last you a long time. It is best to avoid the latest craze and trends, as your sofa may date very quickly. Are you someone who likes a traditional shape with scroll arms, or a more modern contemporary look with straight arms? Corner units are popular nowadays, especially for TV rooms – they are large so ensure you measure properly and remember it may look small in a showroom but not in your home.

2. FABRICS Think about your lifestyle – do you have pets and children? If so, you may want to choose leather, which is easy to wipe if something gets spilled. If you don’t

like leather – which can easily dominate a room – choose a fabric that has a stain repellent in it, or you could have the fabric treated (i.e. scotchguard). Colour and texture are also important. Do you like the warmth of wool or velvet? Or perhaps you prefer linen – a natural slubby appearance that creates a more ‘lived-in’ look? Neutral colours will be timeless and it is easy to inject a bit of colour with cushions or throws. Patterns can date more than plain fabric though, so choose carefully!

3. FILLINGS Feather, foam, fibre? If you are someone that likes to sink into a squashy sofa then feather is for you. However, it is high maintenance and will need regular ‘plumping’ up to prevent the feathers flattening. Foam is firmer than feather but lower maintenance, and fibre is in between the two and will suit the majority of people. A good combination would be fibre seats and feather back cushions, which gives you the best of both worlds. The lowest maintenance is a sofa with a base wrapped with lots of foam and fibre – known as a bench seat – which means there are no

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cushions to maintain – a Chesterfield is a good example of this.

4. COMFORT A good sofa must be super comfortable, as most of us spend a fair amount of time sitting on them. Consider the setting – are you wanting an occasional sofa in a formal sitting? If so, you may choose a firmer upright bench style, which will give clean lines. Is it a sofa you want to chill out on with the kids and watch TV? Then choose a large squashy sofa. It will often take several visits to a showroom and multiple tests to find your ideal sofa – a quick five minute sit down is not a true test.

5. LOOSE OR FITTED COVER The advantage of a loose cover means that they are removable and washable – great if you have pets and children – and they give a more relaxed look to the sofa. Fitted covers on the other hand give a much neater appearance, and you can always have them steam cleaned in situ should you wish to freshen them up. So now all that is left to do is sink into your sofa and enjoy!

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Page 65

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The Local Answer

Is your Conservatory too hot in the Summer and too cold in the Winter?

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The Conser vator y you can enjoy all year round. Replace your old conser vator y roof and create genuine extra living space in your home. Whatever shape or style of conser vator y you have , a Guardian roof can be designed to match your home and give additional all year round ground floor space. Inside you’ll have the extra room you always wanted; quiet, comfor table and relaxing.

☎ 01452 526028 SHOWROOM O PENING: Mon to Thurs 9.00 - 5.00pm Friday 9.00 - 4.00pm Saturday by appointment only

www.candlwindows.co.uk Nigel and Louise

LET IT SHINE! Add a w h

dimens ole new io home &n to your living s extra pace

GIVE US A CALL OR STOP BY AT OUR SHOWROOM ON 48 STROUD ROAD, GLOUCESTER, GL1 5AJ

Cotswold Garden & Landscaping Garden Maintenance • Turfing Hedge Cutting • Fencing Patios • Block Paving Tree Felling All waste taken away References available

All areas of work undertaken

01242 898398 / 07967 713488 Manor Farm, Stoke Road, Cheltenham GL52 7RY cgl.chelt@gmail.com

Acorn Gardening Services NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL! PATIOS - DRIVEWAYS & BLOCK PAVING FENCING - DECKING PLUS MUCH MORE! GARDEN WALLS - TURFING PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE GATES - SHEDS QUOTATION D. GILES TEL: 01452 730071 MOBILE: 07821 015914

KONTIKI, WAINLODE LANE, NORTON, GLOUCESTER GL2 9LN

JOE & JAMIE

~ Established 25 years! ~

LANDSCAPE GARDENERS All garden work undertaken and guaranteed! Fencing, Patios, Block Paved Drives & Gravel Surfaces Tree & Hedge Pruning, Trimming, Felling 10% OFF Turf supplied and laid ~ Lawns removed for OAPs Retaining Walls Built/Repaired

No job too small or too large ~ All waste removed For a FREE ‘no obligation’ estimate, call Joe or Jamie on

01452 500942 or 07724 159342

Landscape C

Specialists in Paving and Turf Laying, Driveways, Fencing and Timber Work Andy Durrant 07786 602 992 Stuart Parker 07866 534 925 E: andydurrant7@hotmail.com W: www.landscape-creations.co.uk

• Tree work • Garden Design • Garden Maintenance • Turfing • Lawn Cutting • Hedge Trimming • Pond Work • Patios • Decking • Pergolas • Fencing • Sheds • Driveways Diploma in Horticulture ~ Established 1993

Free Quotes ~ Competitive Rates

01242 713800 / 07778 340485

www.markclifford-landscapes.co.uk Landscapes designed and built to enhance your outdoor space

• Driveways • Garden Design • Patios • Decking • Fencing • Water Features • Garden Ponds • Planting • Lighting • Tree Surgery

For a free no obligation quotation please call Ian on

07971 288389 // 01242 527960 www.the-glc.com

Page 68

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The Local Answer

In The Garden with Julia Smith

Sort out your well-weeded garden Now, you will probably have a very wellweeded garden if you have taken any notice at all of my columns in the last couple of months! This will really benefit you from this month onwards as things zoom into growth. Tidy up spring flowering plants such as Helleborus x hybridus (deadhead if you don’t want them to seed), Pulmonaria (cut off all the tatty leaves and old flowerheads) and Euphorbia polychroma and E. Griffithii (shear off the top third of the plant to keep it deadheaded and a nice shape). Do remember that Euphorbia produces a milky sap, which can cause severe irritation so wear gloves when handling! Sow some runner beans as the soil

warms up, making a wigwam of bamboo canes for the beans to twine up. The cultivar ‘White Lady’ is very pretty if you fancy white flowers for a change. I make a hole before I sow the beans and empty my compost from the kitchen in there for a few days – peelings, tea bags etc. I then sow my beans on the top on a layer of soil the usual depth, and this helps keep the moisture in which the beans so love. Look out for the bright red lily beetles on your lilies and fritillaries. You can either just pick and squash or use an insecticide like Provado ultimate bug killer, which is systemic and will kill the larvae when they start to munch on the plant. The larvae are themselves with their sticky black poo, so disgusting looking as they cover gloves might be the order of the day! You can also spray Polygonatum x hybridum (Solomon’s Seal) as they unfurl to stop the dreaded Sawflys turning them into lace! Do any spraying in the evening to limit the affect on beneficial insects. You should be able to start hardening off tender herbaceous plants which you may have bought in the tempting indoor displays in the garden centres and nurseries. If you stick them straight outside it can really knock them back, so it is best practice to spend a week or so taking them outside during the day, and popping them back into the greenhouse or conservatory at night, gradually leaving them for longer and longer until they are out all night. Keep an eye on the weather in case of frosts. You can make a cold frame out of old windows, perspex off–cuts etc, and place in a warm sheltered spot. Raise the lid in the day to circulate the air and cover over at night if you have no greenhouse.

DEGREE QUALIFIED, FULLY INSURED

Telephone: 01242 680922 Mobile: 07703 826396 Email: m_kelsall@sky.com

www.ammonitepavingandlandscaping.co.uk Tod Cottage, The Leigh, Gloucestershire GL19 4AG

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 69

ALL TYPES OF TREE SERVICES G

E SERVICE RE

Small long established family run business

Tree pruning & thinning G Shrub shaping G Hedge trimming G Fencing G Turfing G Drives & Patios (block paving & gravel) Competitive rates Free estimates and advice

01242 802684/07900 155 086 email: sales@dwtrees.com

www.dwtrees.com Reg: 09064563

MARSHALLS DRIVEWAYS LTD Paving & Tarmac Specialists

BEFORE

AFTER

BLOCK PAVING TARMAC LANDSCAPING FENCING PATIOS DRIVEWAYS GARDEN WALLS

All our work is Guaranteed for 5 years! We’ll beat any genuine quote. Rectory Fields, Rudford, Gloucestershire GL2 8DT

01452 668005 / 01453 297010 / 01285 238089 www.marshallsdriveways.co.uk

blinds store

COTSWOLD

TREE SERVICES & GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Fully insured – ESTABLISHED 1995

FOR ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS

Commercial & Domes c

mikeowen1@aol.com www.cotswoldgrounds.co.uk Call 01242 226880/07770 685 662

Glos Garden Services Ltd www.glosgardenservices.co.uk We’ll beat any genuine quotation by 10%

References available

The complete tree and garden service The Grange, Cotswold Court Park, Cheltenham Road East, Gloucestershire GL51 0TF

info@glosgardenservices.co.uk find us on

01452 913633

All major credit cards accepted

Live in style...

Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise. For the widest range of blinds visit Gloucestershire’s largest indoor showroom... Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD

Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit

main dealer

Showroom open by appointment

FREE EASY PARKING! www.newblindscheltenham.co.uk Page 70

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The Local Answer

LOCAL ROOFER

WEATHERTECH Est for 25 years

find us on:

GRP Flat Roofs Single Garage £1,250 inc VAT All New Roofs ● Dry Verge End Cap Systems ● Refelting and Battening ● Fascias, Soffits & Gutters ● Roof and Drive Pressure Cleaning Call for ● All Roof Repairs FREE quotes ●

No Job too Small

01452 899903 07503 858963

All staff are certified 24 hr Callout

& advice

installers

22 Wilson Drive, Cheltenham GL51 0GY

Julia Smith Gardening

CHOSEN LAWNMOWER SERVICES

GARDEN & PLANTING DESIGNS

SERVICING & REPAIR

From as little as £350

of all domestic lawnmowers

Telephone 07929 587751

Mower collection and delivery For a reliable, friendly service please call Graham

juliasmith-gardening@blueyonder.co.uk www.juliasmith-gardening.co.uk

MAKING MORE OF YOUR GARDEN

Gloucestershire

01242 529 574 07595 880481 info@justfencingglos.co.uk

find us on

07771 783528 01452 731100

TIM’LL FIX IT...

For all your Gardening & Maintenance needs...

Tim Rogers Tel: 07803 901837 Gardening

●

Lawn Mowing

●

Fencing

Hedge Trimming & Garden Clearance Patio/Stone Cleaning

●

General Odd Jobs

General Household Maintenance

John Wilson PROPERTY MAINTENANCE No Job Too Small ~ Free Estimates Painting & Decorating ~ Plastering ~ Plumbing Tiling ~ Carpentry ~ Coving ~ Fencing ~ Decking Fascia boards & Soffits ~ Loft access & Insulation

Very Competitive Rates for Bathroom & Kitchen fitting For a Reliable, Clean & Friendly Service, call John

Master Sheds Each structure is custom built to your own requirements – perhaps to fit a corner of the garden or a difficult location.

01242 256733 07900 554406 Wilsonj2@blueyonder.co.uk 29 Pembroke Road, Hatherley, Cheltenham

The Local Answer

01452 314011 07831 762644

www.mastersheds.co.uk

Unit D, Sudmeadow Road, Hempsted, Gloucester GL2 5HG

Garden Sheds, Summerhouses, Home Offices, Garages, Workshops, Site Huts, Stables, Kennels, Aviaries, Pavilions or any large timber buildings!

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 71

Evergreen Landscape Gardeners

Driveways ● Garden Design ● Decking ● Fencing ● Water Features ● Garden Ponds ● Turfing & Gravelling ● Tree Surgery/ 10 % Trimming/Pruning DISCOUNT with this and Topping advert ● Hedge Trimming ●

YOUR LOCAL HANDYMAN Doing the jobs you simply can’t manage

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS

For a FREE quotation and advice without obligation

Tel: 01242 806999 Mobile: 07958 615129

GUTTER UPVC Fascias, Soffits, Guttering, Leaks & Repairs, CLEANING Moss Removal, Flat Rubber AT GREAT Roofing, Felt & Battening, Tiles, Slate Repairs, Re-pointing, PRICES Dry Verges and External Painting SAFE STYLE HOME IMPROVEMENTS For a FREE QUOTATION please call:

01242 802542 (Please dial area code when calling)

YOUR LOCAL QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN

01242 86

2480

Free Estimates and Advice All Aspects of Electrical Work Competitive Rates Inspection and Testing P.A.T. Testing

07786 787068 / 01242 862480 neil@cleevelyelectrics.co.uk

Plumbing Services

I N S TA L L AT I O N

S E R V I C E

IS YOUR BOILER READY FOR A SERVICE? If so, take advantage of our SPRING OFFER for just £50 + VAT Our business is focused on customer service and expert knowledge.

● ●

Gas Safety Inspections Install Central Heating Systems and Renewable Technology

OUR TEAM ARE HERE TO HELP – Contact us today. For further information on all our services please call: 01242

676974

e: mail@platinumplumbingservices.co.uk • www.platinumplumbingservices.co.uk

Page 72

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Find us on

Facebook

The Local Answer

Leckhampton

Female Plumber

Plastering Services

All plastering works undertaken ● Lime plastering ● Dry lining ● Rendering ● Skimming ● Artex removal ● Plasterboarding ● Domes c and commercial Fully insured, reliable and dy Call now for a no obliga on quote

Kerry Baker

Professional qualified plumber Fully insured No job too small

Mobile

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07880 258 158

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Service your existing boiler for only £50+vat Central heating installations Worcester accredited installers Boiler repairs Fully qualified Gas Safe engineers Claim cashback

che.meyrick@live.co.uk www.leckhamptonplasteringservices.co.uk

kerry@thefemaleplumber.co.uk

THE

Treat your home to a New Boiler!

LOCAL

Need to know more? Call now

H A N DY M A N

£50+VAT

GENERAL BUILDER/CARPENTER

No job too small – Free design & quotation •Patios Layed & Repaired • Gutters Cleaned /Repaired & Renewed • Roof Ridge Tile Repairs • Fencing & Decking Replaced & Repaired • Flat Pack Assembly • All Garden Maintenance • Chimney Pointing & Repair • Small Plumbing & Electrics with Painting & D ecorating • Kitchens & Bathrooms Supplied & Fitted

Future Heating Systems Ltd. Trading as

Tel Paul: 01242 279 730 0790 9964 998

01242 262054 Call now for your FREE QUOTATION

Prestbury Lodge, Prestbury, Cheltenham, GL52 5JE localh andymangl5@yahoo.co.uk

www.combi-man.com

HATHERLEY WORKTOPS LTD

Your local worktop specialist Covering the Cotswolds

■

Granite

■

Composite

■

Quartzstone

■

Wood

■

Corian

■

Laminate

Spe ci a li st s i n wo rkt op u pg ra d e s si n ce 1992

Tel: 01242 680953 | 01452 290458 | 07970 190 965 Due to re-fit, showroom viewings are by appointment

www.hatherleyworktops.co.uk 18, 19 & 20 Malmesbury Road |Kingsditch Trading Estate | Cheltenham GL51 6PL ■

Worktop Refits ■ Door Replacements ■ Kitchen Upgrades ■ Full Kitchens ■ Electrical ■ Plumbing ■ Gas ■ Tiling ■ Stud Walls/Plastering

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 73

L et Glou ce st e rs hi re k n ow wh at y o u r b u s i n e s s h a s t o o f fe r

G Kelly PLASTERING SOLID PLASTERING DRY LINING ● SKIMMING ● PARTITIONING ● FIBROUS CORNICE ● EXTERNAL RENDERING ● FLOOR SCREEDING HIGH STANDARD OF WORKMANSHIP WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE ● ●

Tel:

Advertise in up to 200,000 magazines every month:

The Local

ANSWER 510500

07716007326

PLASTERING RE-SKIMS PLASTER BOARDING DRY LINING PAINT & DECORATION SMOOTHING OVER ARTEX

EXTERNAL RENDERING SCAFFOLDING SUPPLY DAMP PROOFING NEW CEILINGS STUD WALLS

LIME WORK/RESTORATION

01242 232 672

Cheltenham www.dotanddab.info for reviews and portfolio! e: richard@dotanddab.info

THREE PIECE JOINERY

Bespoke Joinery Staircases Windows Timber Mouldings Conservatories Doors & Gates Furniture Listed Buildings/Renovation

Joinery & Carpentry Solutions for Trade and Domestic Clients

Professional ● Attention to detail ● A courteous service

Call the office on 01242 821144 Chris England on 07771 803458 Simon Teague on 07787 102807 or email info@threepiecejoinery.com See our photo gallery at www.threepiecejoinery.com Page 74

01242

Property Maintenance and Home Improvements Carpentry, plastering, roofing, kitchens, bathrooms, upvc windows, doors, painting and decorating FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Everything supplied & fitted www.chosenview.co.uk enquiries@chosenview.co.uk TEL: 07832 359448

7 YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL

WORCESTER BOILERS From £1400+VAT

Est. 1984

Heating, Plumbing & Electrical Services • Oil Boiler Service & Installation • Renewables • Heating Systems • Bathrooms • Showers • Boiler Changes Installations & Service • Power Flushing

24kw Ideal Standard (British) Combi Boiler changed with 2 year warranty from £1100 plus VAT

Landlords Certifications

01242 512523/07836 379717 www.iangodwin.com

1 Vineyards Trading Estate, Gloucester Rd, Cheltenham GL51 8NJ 72524

www.TheLocalAnswer.co.uk

Worcester trained and approved

The Local Answer

Fire your imagination Elcombe Stoves’ new showroom has proved a real hit with customers this winter. The company has naturally progressed from its beginnings in 2008 producing top quality firewood to last year selling and installing woodburning stoves from its Stroud showroom. The showroom supplies everything you need for your stove, fireside accessories, and replacement parts. Fully accredited for stove installations, firewood quality, chimney lining and sweeping, there’s a good range of stoves on display and they will source any stove on the market for the best available price. For those DIY enthusiasts fitting or repairing their own woodburners, there’s lots of free and helpful advice from experts on how to do it safely and legally with all the parts you need available. And if you’re considering a hot tub this summer, make sure you check out their wood-fired Nordic hot tubs, imported direct from Finland. Managing Director Steve Ellis explains: “We provide a friendly and reliable service, great quality and good value for money. We make sure our prices are at least as good as anywhere on the internet so you can save money and buy local at the same time.”

£200 worth of firewood with every woodburner installation

shutters store

Live in style...

For the widest range of blinds visit Gloucestershire’s largest indoor showroom... Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD

Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit

main dealer

Showroom open by appointment

FREE EASY PARKING!

NEW RANGE MADE IN BRITAIN DELIVERED WITHIN 3 WEEKS!!

www.shutterscheltenham.co.uk The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 75

Welcome to

COME AND LOOK AT OUR FANTASTIC SHOWROOM

If you are contemplating a new Kitchen a visit to our extensive showroom is essential. Beautifully crafted kitchens from the Dutch manufacturer Keller with its amazing range of doors and finishes has to be seen. Work surfaces from Corian, Silestone & Capsule complete the dream. Our revolutionary new Ceramic Worktops are totally amazing! From design to installation we are here to help you and make the whole experience a pleasant one! Our bathroom displays are mostly in room settings showing Wall & Floor tiles to help you formulate your ideas. If you wish to create a mosaic tiled shower tray we can help you with this and examples are displayed in the Showroom. A new bathroom needs maximum attention to detail so call in and see us and let us help you as only we can.

Mead Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7EG

We are pleased to be able to announce that we are now members of the Which trusted traders

Tel: 01242 262606 Fax: 01242 253103

www.lbkonline.co.uk sales@lbkonline.co.uk

awnings store

Matt Grimshaw Carpentry Ltd Your local Carpenter/ Kitchen Fitting Specialist

Live in style – inside and out... Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise.

All aspects of carpentry undertaken ● ●

Kitchens ● Doors ● Timber Flooring Stairs ● Roofing ● Bespoke Joinery 10% ● Decking ● Fencing

DISCOUNT 01242 604423/07792 088822 ON ANY WORKS mattgrimshawcarpentry@live.co.uk www.mattgrimshawcarpentry.co.uk

Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit Showroom open by appointment

FREE EASY PARKING!

Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD

www.awningscheltenham.co.uk

WHEN QUOTING TLA

CONSTRUCTION Ltd

BUILDING – RENOVATION – EXTENSIONS

Extensions, New Builds Loft Extensions Bathrooms & Kitchens ● General Building Services ● ● ●

Call Harry on: 07768 651515 or 01242 771077 harryantonious@gmail.com

www.antonious.co.uk

RS RS Cladding & Roofing are specialists in all types of Roofing, Flat Roofing and all Rain Water Systems

Roof Repairs, Chimneys, Slates and Tiles

RS Cladding offer home owners quality uPVC fascias, soffits, guttering, downpipes and cladding in a choice of colours (white, rosewood, oak or black). They’re virtually maintenance -free and will never need to be repainted. All our products are guaranteed for 10 years for peace of mind.

RUBBER FLAT ROOFING

Whatever the weather, ClassicBond EPDM roofing membranes protect your property

When you need a sustainable, long lasting rooftop, look no further than the single-ply membrane with half a century track record of performance and durability

Call now for a FREE Quote FREEPHONE: 0800 747 1283 www.rscladdingandroofing.co.uk

email: rs.cladding.roofing@live.co.uk - 105/107 Bath Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL53 7LE RS CLADDING ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF GLOUCESTER RUGBY Page 78

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The Local Answer

SEASONED

HOME CARE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

HARDWOOD

A local family run business that just love the jobs you simply can’t manage

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS

LOGS

Our services include: UPVC Fascias, Soffits, Guttering & Gutter Cleaning, Moss Removal, Flat Rubber Roofing Felt & Battening, Tiles, Slate Repairs, Re-pointing, Chimney Repairs, Lead Work, Dry Verges and External Painting, Fungicidal treatments

Delivered split and cut to size required Tel Nigel Edwards on

01285 821181 Mob: 07968 054472

For a FREE QUOTATION please call:

FREEPHONE 0800 474 8424 01242 809264 (Please dial area code when calling)

TJE Electrical Services

njedwards172@btinternet.com

Electrical testing and certification of all properties Fully insured, competitive rates and very reliable ● Domestic installations and consumer units ● Additional sockets or light points ● Installation of new consumer units ● Rewires Thermal ● Portable appliance testing imaging ● ●

We complete all aspects of bathroom design and installation. Offering a one stop solution from conception to completion. Total bathroom will provide a high quality finish to your new bathroom. To discuss your requirements and arrange a no obligation quote please call or e-mail.

07762 386851 • 01242 523376 • greg@totalbathroom.com

Registered through terry.evans@ymail.com ECA Call Terry Evans 01242 516067/07900 897287

FREE CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM (worth £15)

WITH EVERY BOILER SERVICE

Page 80

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Free quotations upon request

The Local Answer

Steamy... Foggy... Misty... Windows?

Sudoku Fill the grids so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Save £££s Don’t replace it! We can fix it!

We can replace your failed double glazed units, handles, locks and hinges. Potentially saving you £££s

FREE home visit 01242 526189 www.misty2clearwindows.co.uk

• Double Glazed Unit Replacements • Window and Door Repairs • Velux Window Glazing Replacements • Secondary Glazing • Conservatory Roof Glazing Replacement

Unit K, Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 7FD The Local Answer

Don’t look until you’ve finished!

THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESS SHOW Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE 13th-14th MAY 2015

DELEGATE REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE!

Includes entry on both days plus many of the seminars and workshops. For details visit ... www.gloucestershire-business-shows.co.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 81

from

ÂŁ6995

fitted

45%

Any size french or patio doors fitted

ÂŁ750*

ÂŁ600* Bifold doors from

per leaf fitted

A local company you can trust

OFF

Only using our own fitting teams No sales persons, just discounted set factory prices

Any size composite door *fitted

ÂŁ800

Back door fully fitted

ÂŁ599

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT

253 Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, Glos. GL51 8NW (Opposite Cheltenham Spa Train Station) OPEN Mon-Fri 9am-4pm & Sat 10am-2pm

www.emperor-windows.co.uk *T&C apply.

*From a choice of over 20 windows and doors *All prices exclusive of VAT

Any size 6 A Rated Windows

ÂŁ1,750* fitted

01242 220 640 info@emperor-windows.co.uk

Quick Crossword ACROSS 1 Puzzle 5 Wharf 7 Spree 8 Inheritor 9 Bread portion 10 Not explicit 11 Film star dog 13 Serving platter 14 Join in half-heartedly 18 Ran rapidly 21 Printing fluids 22 Afraid 24 Remove completely 25 Grant 26 Injure with horns 27 Recurrent period 28 Legend 29 Torrid

DOWN 1 Expelled air 2 Disease agents 3 Higher than 4 Caught on barb 5 Crosses out 6 Absurd pretence 12 Sick 15 Yearly stipend 16 Implore 17 Increase in attractiveness 19 Rainbow shape 20 Frail with age 22 Genders 23 Debate

THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESS SHOW

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE 13th-14th MAY 2015

DELEGATE REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE!

Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page.

Painters and Decorators Specialists in wallpapering and wall coverings All internal and external painting Private houses, period residences, schools, factories and industrial work. ~ Established over 30 years ~ For free quotation contact John on 01242 580456 or Stephen on 07789 172232

sflood@floods-decorators.co.uk

www.floods-decorators.co.uk

122 George Readings Way, Cheltenham GL51 0UT

The Local Answer

Includes entry on both days plus many of the seminars and workshops. For details visit ... www.gloucestershire-business-shows.co.uk

Winning ways with water

BUILDING AND REFURBISHING SWIMMING POOLS Swimming Pools, Tiled Spas, Steam Rooms

01242 303113

jacqui@millaquia.co.uk www.millaquia.co.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 83

curtain store Due to increased demand, and a desire to deliver the best service possible, our showroom is now only open by appointment. You will be free to browse at your leisure, without pressure. Experienced staff will be on hand to help and advise.

COME AND VISIT OUR

STYLISH SHOWROOM BATHROOMS // SHOWERS // TAPS // FURNITURE // TILES

Telephone 01242 526 189 or fill out form on website for showroom appointment or home visit Showroom open by appointment

FREE EASY PARKING!

Unit K Churchill Industrial Estate, Churchill Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham GL53 7FD

www.curtainscheltenham.co.uk

CITY PLUMBING S

p a r t o f t h e Tr a v i s P e r k i n s G r o u p

CONTACT:

01242 221411

Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-12 noon

Units 32-33 Central Way, Cheltenham Trade Park, Arle Road, Cheltenham GL51 8LX

DISCOUNTS ON EVERYTHING!

FREE DELIVERY IN CHELTENHAM ON PRESENTATION OF THIS ALL BEDS & MATTRESSES ON ADVERT WHEN ORDERING

UNBEATABLE PRICES ON ALL STOCK ITEMS! ✓ Friendly, professional advice ✓ Huge range of carpets (always in stock)

✓ Many 1/2 price bargains ✓ An expert fitting service ✓ Huge savings on discontinued 16-28 Bath Road Cheltenham GL53 7HA 01242 22 88 55 carpetemporium@hotmail.com

lines and roll ends

✓ Free measuring service ✓ Free, no-obligation estimate service

www.carpetemporium.co.uk

✓ Never beaten on price ✓ Same day delivery ✓ Guaranteed value for money!

CARPET ROLLS CARPET REMNANTS VINYLS RUGS BEDS Open 9am-5pm Tues, Weds, Fri & Sat ~ LATE OPENING THURSDAYS ~ 9am-6.30pm The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 85

CROWN CLEARANCE HOUSE AND RUBBISH CLEARANCE WHY HIRE A SKIP?

DIRTY OVEN? CALL US on 07727 208275 PUT THE SPARKLE BACK INTO YOUR OVEN!

www.ovenclean.com

Home Cleaning

OVENS, AGAS, RANGES, HOBS & EXTRACTORS

making your life Tel: 0800 799 9000 easier ... bookthehousekeeper.co.uk

TallTrees,MoorendRd,Leckhampton www.crownclearance.co.uk

01242 572966 07710761504

Building & Landscaping

Your Local Solution ...

Regular cleaning G One off/spring cleaning G Bed making G Washing & ironing G End of Tenancy cleaning

WE LOAD AND DISPOSE 7 DAY SERVICE SINGLE ITEMS SAVE £££’s ON SKIP HIRE FREE ESTIMATES CALL GORDON YOUNG ● ● ● ● ●

Established 1988

New build & renovations, hard & soft landscaping, groundwork, fencing, paving, patios, driveways and turfing. 34 Horsefair Street, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 8JE

Call Tim on 01242 573926 Mobile: 07976 953416 email: pinnacle-services@hotmail.co.uk

SPECIAL OFFER

STEVENS RECYCLING

50% OFF FIRST CLEAN FOR NEW CUSTOMERS

Domestic and Industrial Skips

Professional, hardworking, trustworthy and friendly company who offer a CUSTOMISED CLEANING SERVICE as well as GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Terms & Conditions Apply

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The Local Answer

Save the Planet

with Mark Stead of Gloucestershire Environmental Education Partnership

Get out and about in nature Think back to your childhood. If you’re anything like me you’ll picture yourself climbing trees, building dens, paddling in streams, catching slow worms and coming back home covered in mud with a big smile on your face, eager to tell your parents all about your adventures (well, some of them!) Now picture your children, your grandchildren or indeed any children you know doing the same in 30 years’ time. Will they have the same memories or will they picture themselves in front of the TV, on their mobile phone or playing on their Playstation? With more people living in towns and cities, parents’ (understandable) fears of allowing their children to play outdoors and the lure of the digital screen, children are spending less time than ever outdoors.

I think this is a real shame – but why does it matter? Well, there’s a growing body of evidence that today’s children are suffering from what Richard Louv has

The Local Answer

termed ‘nature deficit disorder’ in his excellent book, ‘Last child in the woods’. This is affecting their behaviour and both their physical and mental wellbeing. We also need people to care about nature more than ever. People won’t protect nature if they don’t care for it, and they won’t care for it if they don’t experience it. So, if you have children or grandchildren get them outdoors! Don’t know where to go? How about the local park or even your own garden? If you want to go further afield, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust reserves are a great place to start. They have over 60 reserves dotted all across the county so there’s bound to be one near you (see www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/ wildlife/reserves for a full list and map). Stuck for what to do? You’re spoiled for choice. It could be as simple as going for a walk or splashing in the puddles – it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. How about building a den or looking for minibeasts? Or use your imagination – try building your own wood elf village or even a bird’s nest!

Alternatively, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, the Nature Detectives website (naturedetectives.org.uk) is full of great ideas for every season, or take a look at Project Wildthing (projectwildthing.com). Here you can share your ideas and even print off a voucher for your children or grandchildren promising them some ‘Wild Time’. If you don’t have a computer, your local library will have lots of books full of fun activities – I recommend ‘Sharing Nature With Children’ by Joseph Cornel. So, what will your children be doing this weekend? Sat in front of the TV or getting out and about, exploring their local area? I know which one I’d rather be doing! To find out more about the work of GEEP visit www.geep.org.uk.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 87

WORD SEARCH R F O I C T S S W K S E C J R I G C W K J T F H

R E E E D I I W P P C Z G M D M E A L X Z R V M

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J O W L L E B E U L B S D C K I N G I J N V H G

X A E P G F G A V Q R U X W S X I A Y E V N D N

K B S O R H N D S K T C K B O J U C M P T T B D

D U N M A W L R U M H O F D Q N M D N W H Q Q O

V I F F I O A F O O F R K S H P S G G U Z X P G

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M Z R B R I I P P G B D S C H A W T H O R N Q O

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Don’t look until you’ve finished! Solutions on ‘Index of Advertisers’ page. Page 88

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The Local Answer

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames – has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Paul Spiller feels that it’s all about service: “Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just

The Local Answer

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

Cloudy2Clear service Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, and Paul is finding that his approach is a major factor in his success. “The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount

To advertise call 01242 510500

of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.” So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Paul a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

Page 89

Over 25 years experience

For all aspects of Carpentry, General Building and Property Maintenance

Scott: 07850 362562 Warren: 07770 409798 Email: newman_ellis@yahoo.com

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DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS ELECTRICAL SAFETY CHECK PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING CALL NICK 01242 700770 or 07917 785354 www.electricians-cheltenham.co uk nick@beaconelectrical.ltd.uk

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Carpentry & Building Contractors

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The Local Answer

Specialist Cleaning Services Plumb It Plumbing & Heating Services is a family run, Cheltenham based company that has built its customer base on good old fashioned service, value and reliability. SERVICES INCLUDE: · Central heating systems · Boiler installation and servicing · Gas fire installations · Kitchen appliances (from plumbing in dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators and cookers)

· Plumbing installations, blockages & leaks · Gas safety & Landlord certificates

Plumb It Plumbing & Heating Services M: 07827 913291 E: info@cheltenham-plumber.com www.cheltenham-plumber.com

Our attention to detail is what separates us from any other specialist cleaning service. We take pride in all the work we do and strive to provide the highest quality cleaning services and workmanship in a professional, perfectionist manner.

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ARD developments ltd

For a complete building service

A professional company working throughout Gloucestershire and the surrounding counties for over 10 years. Offering a wide variety of services ranging from a labour only service to a complete building management solution. Helping to make home alterations the easiest and most pleasant experience possible. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Refurbishments & Conversions Electrical Installations & Alterations Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting GRP Fibreglass Roofing Solar Pv installations

Please contact us for a free quote: 01452 506801 www.arddevelopmentsltd.co.uk The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 91

Building & Property Services

Aubrey Howard is an innovative property services company made up of experienced project managers, architects and tradesmen. We aim to provide a fresh approach to your property requirements without the usual complaints and hassles that dog the building trade.

The Perfect Build

✧ Concept Design ✧ Architectural Drawings ✧ Planning Permission ✧ Listed Building Consent ✧ Project Management ✧ Consultancy ✧ Portfolio Management

Whether it is a leaky tap, a loft conversion or a larger building project, Aubrey Howard has the necessary experience and drive to make even the most daunting of projects a reality. We work collaboratively with our customers at all stages of a project and deliver an outstanding service on time and on budget. Always.

Our Services ✧ Plumbing ✧ Heating ✧ Carpentry

✧ Joinery ✧ Electrical Work ✧ Roofing

✧ Decoration ✧ Interior Design ✧ Landscaping

24 genc Ho y Cal ur l Out

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46 Suffolk Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 2AQ

Gadgets & Gizmos with Dan Wood

Get outside and enjoy the sun RICOH THETA M15 The panoramic 360-degree photograph is no new concept and most cameras worth their salt include this feature as standard. But if you’re a prolific snapper of these wide lens shots, the Ricoh Theta M15 could save you time and pocket space. Ranging from £200-250 on average, you’ll need to do your research to find best price. Fish eye lenses located on both sides capture 180degree images before they are automatically stitched together at the click of one button. 95 grams in weight and perfectly pocket sized, you won’t know you’ve got it. With a PC-based software add-on, you can now shoot 360-degree video too! Features also smartphone app – available for Apple and include 4GB of internal digital memory, 200 Android users. A trade off between weight photos per battery charge on and cost? This isn’t cheap, but average, and a handy tripod will save on space! port which doubles up as a iGRILL2 strap attachment (five colours With the weather warming, available). Remote BBQs will be firing up snapping is also everywhere and you can stand possible via the out with the iGrill2 bluetooth smart meat thermometer. Grill your meat from up to 150 feet away and monitor the core temperature at the same time via your smart phone. It will cost you between £50 and £90, and has a magnetic rear for simple mounting so you can monitor four probes at one time for the perfect grill.

COLAPZ WATERING CAN Save on space with the Colapz watering can. Features include a nine litre capacity, a measuring gauge and a selection of available colours including blood red, lime green and candy pink – all made from 100% recyclable materials. For £15-20, why not add a talking point to you garden this summer?

money? What does moremore freedom? more time with the family? success your own business? mean to you? Get in touch! It might just change your life Shelley & Jason – shelley@utilities4you.net www.utility-saver.com 07812 996653

The Local Answer

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 93

J.T.G

COTSWOLD REWIRES

Building Services & Property Maintenance Public Liability insured

25 Years Experience

Roofing, Chimneys Drainage Re-pointing Structural Openings Plastering Brickwork, Patio’s Extensions etc Contact John Gurney

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Carpenter

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WHY CHOOSE US?

What would you say if someone told you that your central heating system could be transformed, with very little disruption to your home, using highly qualified engineers, with the best quality materials possible at a price you could afford? A family run business, Cotswold Plumbers Limited has provided quality plumbing and heating services in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire since 2005. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through repeat custom and relationships that have been built around a first class experience. Offering our customers more...

www.cotswoldplumbers.co.uk Page 94

All work is Carried out to the highest standards Performed by trained professionals Covered by public liability insurance No job too small For a FREE quote Call 01242 693243 / 07798 585396 E: info@swsplastering.co.uk www.swsplastering.co.uk

Nick Burton

07799 246692 07775 876443 01242 693111

Call Carl on 07970

All Aspects of internal/ external plastering Specialist Work Building Services

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GAS

Accredited Installer

The Local Answer

1st Choice

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Digital Aerial Installations Upgrades and Repairs

10% off with this advert Mark Hawkes

Tel: 01242 649120

Eversure Accounts

Accountancy, Payroll & Bookkeeping Services

T: Lisa on 01242 251614 M: 07891879504

info@eversureaccounts.co.uk www.eversureaccounts.co.uk

w w w. a n d o r r a n . c o . u k chartered accountants

ACCOUNTANCY & TAXATION SERVICES for new & existing businesses Telephone: 01242 244856 Email: accountancy@andorran.co.uk

6 Manor Park Business Centre, Mackenzie Way, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 9TX

PC-Menders

IT help for Home and Small Business users • • • • • •

Repairs, Troubleshooting and Upgrades Windows 8 and iPad set-up and assistance Virus removal Data recovery and transfer System set-up and Training Networks and Servers

phone: John on 01242 576650 email: help@pc-menders.co.uk

NOT JUST ELECTRICS! Experienced Qualified Electrician General building maintenance, plumbing, decorating.

No job too big or small Free quotations, Reliable, Friendly 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE COUNTY ELECTRICAL

References available CONTRACTOR FOR

T: 01242 251743 M: 07770 790767 The Local Answer

Money Matters with Roger Downes of Andorran

GENERAL ELECTION

2015

Political Footballs We should know the outcome on May 7th, or maybe we won’t if the polls suggesting a hung parliament come to pass. The forthcoming General Election has occupied all available column inches and broadcasting hours for weeks now, so I didn’t think I could let the occasion pass without covering it for ‘Money Matters’. I have no intention of indicating political allegiance to any party or of trying to persuade you which way to vote. However, almost every survey of voters has put the Economy at the top of the agenda in terms of matters of importance, and probably rightly so. Most of the items that follow it on the agenda – the NHS, immigration, foreign policy and aid, jobs, student finances etc. – are in many ways functions of what is happening in the Economy, coupled with the fiscal and spending policies of the government of the day. So maybe it would have been more interesting to have heard from the likes of George Osborne, Ed Balls and those who would shape their party’s financial plan, rather than the ‘Magnificent Seven’ stood at their podiums!

Simplify the political rhetoric It would certainly be more helpful to the electorate if we could simplify all of the political rhetoric to which we have been subjected. All it would take is a couple of pie charts, one representing the incomes available to the government and the second one spending plans of the would-be Chancellor. Every time they commit to spending, say £8 billion on the NHS, they would either have to increase the income pie to match or reduce the expenditure one by a similar sum in a different area. Once all the commitments had been entered into the pies, we would have a clear picture of how our taxes and borrowing would look under each major party and how they would be spending the money raised. Conquering the current budget deficit would, of course, simply be one of those items of expenditure in the pie. Simple isn’t it? And we all love a picture. They seem so much easier to understand than all those weasly words.

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 95

MARTINTERIORSLTD

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Cheltenham Plumbers

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Cost-effective FREE Quotations NO VAT TO PAY ON OUR SERVICE For professional service with a smile contact: SHANE IAN

07780 594421 07768 317151 www.cheltplumbers.com

shane@cheltenhamplumbersltd.co.uk

ian@cheltenhamplumbersltd.co.uk

• Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting • Carpentry/Joinery • Painting & Decorating • Tiling • Plaster Skimming

Numerous Local References Available!

Please contact Martin for a

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Page 96

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The Local Answer

Local Policing with Tim Waterhouse

Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team

A focus on the future

ALEXANDER BURN FUNERAL DIRECTORS Alexander Burn is an independent family business with three offices in the Cheltenham area.

COURTEOUS, EFFICIENT AND RESPECTFUL 24 hour personal service Private chapels of rest

www.alexanderburn.com Bishops Cleeve 22 Church Road 01242 673300

Cheltenham 436 High Street 01242 245350

Winchcombe 11 North Street 01242 604888

NEW LEAF CONSTRUCTION

Quality Building Extensions Loft Conversions Roofing Walls Bathrooms Porches Paving References from satisfied customers NEW LEAF CONSTRUCTION is fully insured Contact Oliver Keys for a FREE no obligation quotation on:

Tel: 01242 581524 Mob: 07837 857145 email: oliverkeys@hotmail.co.uk 70 Horsefair Street, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Glos GL51 8JH

The Local Answer

We’ve had many meetings of late regarding the austerity implications for the local community with regard to policing. No one can be blind to the fact that public service funding has been cut and will probably be cut further over the next few years. Fortunately, I can leave the finances of Gloucestershire Constabulary to the headquarters gang at Waterwells, concerning myself on how to keep our response to you as efficient and effective as possible with the resources I am allocated. My own team has taken some cuts, but the time is now for my management team and I to really focus on the future and ensure we leave no stone unturned in getting as much efficiency and effectiveness out of the officers that are available to me. We must keep focusing on: • Safeguarding. Keeping people safe as much as possible and – in particular – the old, the young and the people who have difficulty looking after themselves. Recently, the national media has reported harrowing stories of child sexual exploitation and I am as determined as ever to make sure Cheltenham doesn’t make any headlines. No news is good news in my opinion and means we are doing something right. • Engagement. Getting the message across in whichever way best suits the community that we care and that we are all in this together to make a difference. • Crime investigation. We can’t get away from the fact that investigation of crime is important on many levels, whether that is helping the victim(s) or – perhaps most important as the best way of reducing crime in the long term – ensuring offenders are caught and punished. My challenge is to make sure we don’t waste any of our important time, and concentrate where we can on making a difference. • Crime reduction. We have highly trained officers around the Force and we must use these skills as effectively as possible – less crime means more time. • Proactivity. My main challenge over the next few months and beyond is to ensure your local team keeps being as proactive as possible. I absolutely believe that the more proactive we are (drug raids and targeting offenders) the lower the demand for our services. The more we move away from serious and effective proactivity, the more demand will increase and we become a ‘fire brigade’ service – putting out fires where we should be dealing with the perpetrator before a fire starts. This is what we do now and, as I have said, my challenge is to ensure that no matter what austerity throws at us, we still look to be as proactive as possible and creating that capacity is my job. Fortunately, I have lots of help from my organisation – from our partners, the Special Constabulary, volunteers and others who help create that capacity. We are in difficult times but your local team are determined to keep Cheltenham as safe as possible. Keep ‘em locked and keep safe!

Gloucestershire Constabulary Non-Emergency Number – 101 In an emergency always call 999

www.gloucestershire.police.uk

To advertise call 01242 510500

Page 97

Index of Advertisers The Guild Hairdressing 14 FOOD & DRINK 14 Battledown Brewery 51 The Haven Burley Fields Hog Roast Hire 4 PROPERTY & STORAGE Chenmoore Chopsticks 5 House-Moves 56-57 Donnington Brewery 51 Newcombe Residential 54 Gloucester Brewery 51 Northwood 59 Goffs Brewery 51 Norton Park 60-61 4 Open House Mini Morsels 58 The Core 15 Park Home Life 54 Wickwar Brewing Co 51 Pittville Property 55 Sam Ray Property 58 WHAT’S ON CLUBS & SPORTS HOLIDAYS & TRAVEL Bickos Bike Shack 28 Miles Morgan 10 Cheltenham College Sports 30-31 CLC Sports Centre 16 HOMES & GARDENS Shipton Golf Course 49 BATHROOMS 85 The Seasons Art Class 46 City Plumbing Leckhampton Bathrooms 76-77 EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS 99 Bacon Theatre 38 Severn Vale 80 Batsford Arboretum 49 Total Bathroom BUILDING SERVICES Car Less Car Boot 28 92 Cattle Country 43 Aubrey Howard Builders Cheltenham Challenge 40 ARD Developments Limited 91 62 Cheltenham Racecourse 47 BE Rudman 74 Cineworld Cheltenham 36-37 Chosen View 74 Dean Close Open Morning 35 Dot & Dab Plastering 72 Glos Business Show 34 Elite Loft Ladders 74 Gloucester Rugby 48 G Kelly Plastering 66 Live Promotions – Bjorn Again 39 GlosBuild 78 Museum in the Park 42 Harry Antonious 80 Nine Networking 13 Home Care Property 94 Prinknash Bird Park 33 JTG Building Services 73 West Midlands Safari Park 45 Leckhampton Plastering 96 Woodchester Mansion 44 Mart Interiors Limited Marshalls Driveways 70 RETAIL New Leaf Construction 97 Aquajardin 8 Pinnacle Property Services 86 MillAquia 83 R Richards & Son 63 Roofing & Building 64 HEALTH & BEAUTY 78 Cheltenham CBT 18 RS Cladding and Roofing 12 Craig Thorn Acupuncture 16 Spa Garden Rooms Isbourne Holistic Centre 18 Staverton Building Supplies 2 63 Lighter Life 19 Steve Mustoe Building 94 Mobile Chiropodist 14 SWS Plastering 71 NHS – Let’s Talk 18 Weathertech Oakwell Health 21 CARPENTRY Spa Vapes 14 & 41 Matt Grimshaw 78

Newman and Ellis Nick Burton Three Piece Joinery CLEANING SERVICES Anya Cleaning Ecoclean Oven Busters Ovenclean Pink Fairy Cleaning Regency Cleaning The Housekeeper ELECTRICAL SERVICES Beacon Electrical Cleevely Electrics Cotswold Rewires County Electrical TJE Electrical Services FURNISHING & APPLIANCES Bella’s Interiors Carpet Emporium MWE Furnishings Ltd New Blinds New Blinds – Awnings New Blinds – Curtains New Blinds – Shutters Space Master Tony Mustoe’s Carpets GARDEN SERVICES Acorn Gardening Services Ammonite Challenge Fencing Chosen Lawnmowers Cotswold Garden/Landscape Cotswold Tree Services DW Tree Services Evergreen Landscapes Glos Garden Services Joe & Jamie Julia Smith Gardening Just Fencing Landscape Creations Mark Clifford Landscapes Master Sheds The Garden Landscape Cons. Tim’ll Fix It HANDYMAN SERVICES John Wilson Maintenance

COMPUTERS & SOFTWARE Abbey Business Equipment 90 95 PC Menders EDUCATION & TRAINING Broadlands Pre-School Centre 22 Fox Cubs Day Nursery 22 Winton House Day Nursery 20 FUNERAL DIRECTORS Alexander Burn 97 HOUSE & RUBBISH CLEARANCE Crown Clearance 86 LEGAL & FINANCE Andorran 95 Eversure Accounts 95 LOCKSMITHS Ollie’s Lock & Safe 97 MOTORING SERVICES Valkyrie Chauffeurs 17 Westlands Hyundai 52 PETS BJ Luxury Kennels & Cattery 11 Charlton Kings Vet Centre 9 SKIP HIRE & RECYCLING Stevens Recycling 86 UTILITIES Utility Warehouse 90 & 93

90 Safe Style Home Improvements 72 73 94 The Local Handyman 74 HEATING & PLUMBING Barker & Bayliss 96 96 86 Cheltenham Plumbers 73 87 Combi-Man 94 86 Cotswold Plumbers 75 86 Elcombe Fire & Wood 74 86 ID Godwin 73 91 KB Female Plumber 74 86 Pete T Plumbing Platinum Plumbing 72 91 90 Plumb It 80 72 Pure Plumbing 94 Seasoned Hardwood Logs 80 Ubique 62 95 80 KITCHENS Granite Transformations 79 73 64 Hatherley Worktops 85 Leckhampton Kitchens 76-77 6 62 Nicholas Joiner Kitchens 70 PAINTING & DECORATING 64 78 Decor by Makeover 64 85 Flairline Decorating 83 75 Floods 64 64 Trevor Rogers 65 TV & AERIAL 1st Choice Aerials 95 68 WINDOWS, DOORS 69 & CONSERVATORIES 68 Albany Windows 100 71 C&L Windows 67 68 Clearway Doors & Windows 84 70 Cloudy2Clear 89 70 Emperor Windows 82 72 Misty2Clear 81 70 Nova Glazing 63 68 71 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 71 AUCTIONEERS & VALUERS 68 Mallams 32 68 CARE SERVICES 71 Barnwood Trust 26-27 68 Charlton Kings Care Home 24 71 Nazareth House 22 The Order of St John 24 25 71 Thirlestaine Park

If you don’t see the goods or services you provide listed here – take advantage and

BE THE FIRST! Telephone

01242 510500

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS R F O I C T S S W K S E C J R I G C W K J T F H

COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of our April 2015 competitions: Bacon Theatre – Pair of tickets to see Simon & Garfunkel – Mrs Bruce of Cheltenham and Mr Coleman of Cheltenham. Picture Perfect – £100 worth of Smyths Toys Superstore Vouchers – Kelly Wynne of Tewkesbury.

R E E E D I I W P P C Z G M D M E A L X Z R V M

H D W L T R S N K I O K F I O L R D S O E U F N

B O G O I I B X T H T R Q V W Q A W D S Z P M C

J O W L L E B E U L B S D C K I N G I J N V H G

X A E P G F G A V Q R U X W S X I A Y E V N D N

K B S O R H N D S K T C K B O J U C M P T T B D

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COMPETITION RULES 1 Prizes are as stated and no cash or prize alternative will be offered. 2 Employees of The Local Answer and their families or households are not eligible to enter. 3 The first correct entry drawn at random after the closing date will win the prize as stated. 4 The winner will be notified by telephone after the closing date has passed. 5 The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 6 Entrants must be over 18 years, unless stated. 7 Proof of

posting is not regarded as proof of receipt of entry. 8 The Local Answer accepts no responsibility for the provision of the prize, which remains at all times the full responsibility of the prize donor(s). 9 By entering any competition you agree to have your name published in the next issue of The Local Answer should you be drawn as a winner of the prize. 10 By entering any competition you agree to have your details passed to a third party.

BOOKING DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE – Friday 15th May 2015 Page 98

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The Local Answer

Albany Windows is a local family business. First and foremost we are installers, which is important because installation is the difficult bit and we are small enough to maintain close control over every job.

But we are big enough to obtain supplies directly from large, high quality manufacturers of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories. WINDOW AND DOOR SYSTEMS

Whatever your requirements, we have glazing options for every need and budget, from a single window to a large conservatory. We supply some of Gloucestershireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading builders of quality homes with their glazing, but we also carry out double glazing and conservatory repairs and replace misted sealed units.

Registration No: 12011

Registered through: FENSA

We have all the accreditations you could wish for and of course offer a ten year insurance backed guarantee. And, with no long sales pitch or pressure to buy, we make the entire process hassle free from start to finish.

You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy better! So why pay more?

For a free no obligation quotation call 01242 511384

Brand New Showroom Now Open Unit 41, Space Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FL