Worcestershire NOW - NOVEMBER 2018

Worcestershire

Now

SEE PAGE 47 FOR MORE INFORMATION

TALES FROM THE ORIENT SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY CHRISTMAS ACROSS THE COUNTY NOVEMBER 2018 | ISSUE 183

YOUR FREE COUNTY MAGAZINE t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 1 n

HOMES • GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK • WALKS • HEALTH & BEAUTY • WHAT’S ON • COMPETITIONS

n 2 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Worcestershire

Now

10

Contents

18 20 26

NOVEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN 10

Tales From The Orient

16

Five Top Tips to Decluttering Your Home

18

Ten Jobs of the Month

20

Nature Notebook

22

HEALTH & BEAUTY 22

Dark and Stormy

26

Competition Colwall Park Hotel

WO RC E S T E R S H I R E

NOW 01905 723011 nowmagazines.co.uk 2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

EDITOR

ADVERTISING

Dawn Pardoe PW Media & Publishing Ltd dawn@pw-media.co.uk

Mel Penkoks 01905 727901 mel@pw-media.co.uk

DESIGN

Rachel Seabright 01905 727900 rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Daisy Bennett Wendy Carter - Worc. Wildlife Trust Glynis Dray Colwall Park Hotel Green Cow Kitchens Myrtle’s Kitchen Robinson Relocation Salhan Accountants Worcester Roundtable Worcester Guild of Craft Wyevale Garden Centre

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28

32

FOOD & DRINK

50 38

28

Damson Parfait with Honeycomb Crumb

30

Myrtle’s Kitchen

GOLDEN YEARS 32

Keeping Your Social Media Use Safe

OUR EVENTS DIARY 38

Christmas Across The County

44

What’s On

50

Walk Mistletoe Boughs around Eastham near Tenbury Wells

Brockencote Hall M. Shenton, Redditch The Elms J. Waldron, Kiddermister

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictoral media for this publication are sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PW Media & Publishing Ltd or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PW Media & Publishing Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. Please note that if you enter a competition in the Worcestershire Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

n 4 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

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THE LATEST NEWS FROM YOUR AREA Bonfire, Fairground and Fireworks for charity on Saturday 3 November 2018 For over 50 years volunteers from the Worcester Round Table have organised the Bonfire and Fireworks celebrations at Worcester Racecourse to raise money for local good causes and charities.

All profits made at this bonfire are distributed throughout the year but more specifically during a series of open and informal evenings for which charities can submit requests.

Due to the generosity of the Worcestershire public last year we were able to support the following with over £15,000; The New Hope foundation for various projects and activities supporting children with a wide range of needs; Worcester Food Bank with food and essentials for the homeless community; Kids Cancer Charity with respite breaks for families

in need; WMSAR with specialized gear and

for a child (under 18), £6 for an adult or £15 for

lifesaving equipment; New College Worcester

a family of 4 (2+2).

with support for partially sighted children and many other local good causes

Gates will open at 5.30pm and the firework display

will

start

To

on

Saturday

November

security, council and fair ground owners to

youngest visitors and keep all warm we are

make this community event even more family

lighting the bonfire at 18:15. We have new

friendly and fun for all in a safe environment.

rides suitable for all ages.

With all of the above we still offer excellent

Therefore, we look forward to seeing you

value for money. For the first time in ten years

and your family and friends again this year. If

however we did have to raise prices, but only

you want to find out more about all the other

at the gate. Tickets are therefore:

activities we do or want to get involved then

Pre-purchased online (min. 24 hours) £2 for a

3rd.

7.30pm

We have worked hard with the firework team,

accommodate

the

do talk to one of our members as well! n

child ( under 18), £5 for an adult or £12 for a

Tickets and more information are available at

family of 4 (2+2). Purchased at the gate £2.50

www.worcester.roundtable.co.uk

Worcestershire Guild of Craft Christmas Fair A perfect alternative to high street shopping the show gives the opportunity to buy craft work directly from the people who made it.

The makers involved are all local, professional craftspeople working in jewellery, ceramics, textiles, paper, metal and more.

Textile artist Jo Dewar will bring her colourful collection

of

wirework

accessories

and

very collectable & much sought after.

More than 25 craftspeople will take part in the two shows, offering something for everyone. For more details on the show, who’s exhibiting and how to find the venue visit www.worcestershireguild.co.uk or call the Royal Porcelain Works directly on 01905 677399. n

homeware to the fair. Cheerful and heart warming, Jo makes pieces inspired by the natural world and vintage fashion. She uses paper and wire to make 3D pieces that Textiles & Wirework

by Jo Dewar www.jodewar.com

This November the Worcestershire Guild of Contemporary Craft will hold a Christmas Craft Fair at the newly refurbished Royal Porcelain Works. Since opening in the summer the Porcelain Works on Severn Street has become a new centre for the arts in Worcester.

The Worcestershire Guild will be taking over the Henry Sandon Hall (the former sales showroom of the Porcelain Works, built in 1852) from 9th - 11th November & 23rd - 25th November. Opening each weekend from 10am – 4.30pm. n 6 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

delight the eye.

Blacksmithing couple Claudia Petley & Paul Shepherd have over 20 years experience in their trade, making everything from household ironwork to garden sculpture.

Their latest collection of bird sculptures combine metal and wood, capturing birds in dramatic poses.

A long-standing member of the Guild Bridget Drakeford makes porcelain vessels in her rural workshop. Influenced by Oriental and European ceramics she fuses the two styles into classically well proportioned pots. Her grace and subtlety of finish, combined with sophisticated coloured glazes make her work

Teapot by Ceramicist Bridget Drakeford www.bdporcelain.co.uk

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HERE & NOW

Award-winning Accountants Bring Services to Worcestershire With New Office Opening The firm has recently opened a new ‘branch’ in Droitwich, converting one of Droitwich’s oldest bank buildings into a modern office, as it looks to expand its service offering across the region.

“This is the perfect location for our firm’s expansion in the region and will us allow to provide a new hub from which our talented team can work and provide excellent service at an affordable price.

Its recent refurbishment of the former NatWest in Victoria Square, which closed more than a year ago, will act as a new point of contact for clients in the region and will help the firm attract new interest in its services from businesses in Droitwich, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, Warwickshire and beyond.

“Despite choosing such a historic location we pride ourselves on being a very forwardthinking and innovative firm.”

Salhan Accountants is a well-respected firm which is able to offer businesses and individuals a range of technology-driven services to meet their needs and budget.

Businesses and individuals across Worcestershire are to benefit from the awardwinning services of Salhan Accountants – recently declared Firm of the Year for Wales and the Midlands at the prestigious British Accountancy Awards.

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Speaking about the firm’s expansion into the spa town, Dr Anjulika Salhan, Director at Salhan Accountants, said: “We have had such a warm welcome at our new office in Droitwich and are already receiving enquiries from businesses about our wide range of services.

Anjulika added that she couldn’t wait to meet more local businesses to find out how she and her team could support them. n To find out more about Salhan Accountants, please visit www.salhanaccountants.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

e h t m

t n e i Or

lend b o t . how space u o g y livin ow s h s u o e ni E rs. W harmo PAG o i r e THE d t R in an OVE ED ired erene INU p T s N s in CO ese reate a n a ap oc ith J ature t w e n hom uty of r u o a up y the be n e d h Fres licity an p sim

l a T

o r f es

The Window Film Company, MissPrint - Frontier, www.windowfilm.co.uk

n 10 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

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HOME & GARDEN

Rich silk textures and graceful bird motifs are taking centre stage this autumn/winter as we embrace the zen in Japanese interior design.

Here are some top tips to give your home a clean, simple and minimalistic style with nature inspired furnishings.

Galerie Wallcoverings - The Global Fusion Collection - from ÂŁ29.95 per roll.

Simple colours While the minimalist feel of Japanese inspired decor is the key to creating a relaxed feel to your home, a splash of colour will bring the room together. Pink hues, deep blues, earthy greens and vibrant reds compliment the natural tones of your Orient inspired living space.

A pale colour palette will also make a room feel more spacious.

Galerie Wallcoverings The Sumi-E Collection - ÂŁ34.95 per roll

Use delicate patterns in wall coverings and furnishings to pay homage to the style that is driven by its environment. Hand-painted silks in oriental florals and a trend in watercolours offer simple designs in contrast to the sharp accents that black accessories can present.

By applying the Japanese aesthetic theory, shibui, dark colours should be kept near the ground, with lighter colours higher in the space.

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High-tech living Introducing the latest technology can also benefit your home living. Japan has long been known for its advancement in science and technology, being described as innovation leaders.

The Sensia Arena design, is based on and originated from the Japanese style of toilets that combine the features of both a toilet and bidet in one, enabling you to use the toilet, and wash and dry yourself with just warm water and warm air.

There are many innovative features such as automatic flush, night light, app control and the ability to personalise your preferred temperature and spray settings.

Celebrate the imperfections Distressed wood and mismatched furniture is the key to Wabi-Sabi, the Japanese philosophy of balancing simplicity with age and wisdom.

Deliberately leaving an unfinished edge to your design helps find the beauty in imperfections.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

HOME & GARDEN

THE

Fabrik SHOP

24a Broad Street, Pershore Tel: 01386 553 626 e: thefabrikshop@btinternet.com

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

Fat quarters from ÂŁ1

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HOME & GARDEN

Hand-made furnishings and individual pieces of art that are unique to your home, give your home individuality and a lived-in environment.

Spending money buying products made from sustainable materials will make sure that they will last and stand the test of time. Rustic simplicity instead of polished perfection.

Be space smart Open plan spaces feeding in lots of natural light bring in the landscape that is the heart of a Japanese themed room.

By giving your furnishings a multiple function ensures that you are not wasting any space in your home.

A cushion that doubles up as a chair, a pull down bed or even sliding doors acting as a partition between rooms, create a feeling of a bigger, more purposeful space.

Going back to nature Japanese ideals focus on the well being effect of nature, combining organic materials to layer different shapes and textures.

From the rigid structure of naturally sourced bamboo to the delicate leaves of the bonsai

tree, surround the home with a naturally earthy palette.

The cherry blossom tree, the spiritual Mount Fuji and the abundance of birds in Japan’s natural world are all influences in South Asian design.

Lightly-toned, wood-effect flooring such as Impress Sierra Oak 58346 (pictured right) perfectly embodies the two defining Japanese design characteristics of simplicity and embracing the natural world.

Impress Sierra Oak 58346

For the walls, keep decoration to a minimum and place wall art neatly. If you want to make a statement and imbue your home with a significant nod to the natural world, bamboo or wooden wall coverings are a striking choice.

Bamboo is a popular wood for decorative purposes in Japan and provides a powerful way of injecting a space with simple, wholesome beauty.

Fill your home with a variety of potted house plants, by choosing the traditional bonsai, the dramatic dragon tree, a prickly cactus or a lemon button fern to make a big impression. n

By Daisy Bennett

Rom sofa and Rico chair, www.insitufurniture.co.uk

n 14 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

HOME & GARDEN

Made-to-Measure Curtains & Blinds Saphira by Romo

DRESS TO IMPRESS Let us help you get your windows ready for Christmas

• Free consultation in your own home • Fitting service available • Extensive range of fabrics and accessories • On-line shop Opening Hours:Wednesday - Friday: 9.30am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm | Sunday - Tuesday : Closed

61 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1EU

T: 01386 556 411 | M: 07527 047647 | E: veragilesinteriors@btconnect.com

www.veragilesinteriors.com

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HOME & GARDEN

Five Top Tips to

Decluttering Your Home

1. Make it manageable The idea of decluttering can be overwhelming, so start small and try to avoid setting yourself unachievable goals. Pick up five things and find a home for them around your house, as just having the right place for things can make a great change.

2. Why not try a room?

Bathroom, Kitchen, Bedroom: pick one room at the time! Focusing on decluttering one room helps prevent distractions, and creates a clear and feasible target.

3. Double Check Dates Decluttering is also the perfect opportunity to double check the dates on products in

your medicine cabinet, which, depending on how often you’re sick, can often sit unused for months at a time. Take the time to check the use by dates and only keep the ones that are still safe to use.

4. Storage Boxes However tempting is it to buy lots of storage boxes, it’s best to buy them after you’ve sorted through all your stuff. This allows you to see the size and amount you need to buy.

5. Not entirely sure?

The hardest part of decluttering is deciding what stays and what doesn’t. Create a ‘maybe’ box and give yourself time to make the correct decision. Label the box with the date and check on it in a couple of months’

time, if you find yourself needing and using the items, then you know they need to stay.

If they remain in the box, unused, it’s time for them to go.

However, if you need somewhere to store your ‘maybe’ boxes while you make your decision, why not consider local storage companies which will help you temporarily declutter, and give you plenty of time to make your final decision? With prices starting at £5 per week at the Robinsons Relocation Redditch branch for example, the choice is really yours!. n Robinsons T: 01527 830 860 www.robinsonsrelo.com

Business Storage • Household Storage • Archive Storage Pick and Pack Service • Next Day Parcel Service Packing Materials • Van Hire • Student Summer Storage

50p VAN HIRE FOR NEW STORAGE CUSTOMERS Please contact for more details.

GREEN SELF STORAGE 01905 427 427 info@green-self-storage.com | www.green-self-storage.com Hylton Road, Worcester WR2 5JS

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

n 16 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Mel Penkoks

Rachel Seabright

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: mel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

Ten Jobs of the Month

to Wind Down Your Garden For Winter

Gardens need meticulous care in all seasons, and in the run up to winter it is no different, with a wide variety of jobs that need attention and require completion to ensure gardens arrive in tip top shape for spring.

Whether it involves bringing winter colour into your garden, pruning and protecting existing plants, storing compost and outdoor furniture, or planting spring flowering bulbs, Wyevale Garden Centres conveniently lists 10 tips to wind down your garden for winter in order to create a beautiful garden in spring.

in lawns. You just need to use good quality

Julian Palphramand, Horticulture buyer, says: “As the season gets colder and wetter, working in your garden doesn’t seem much fun. It’s still important to look after it at this time of year, however, to get it ready for spring. There aren’t as many jobs as in earlier months, but you’ll be thankful for spending the time when spring comes round and your garden bursts into bloom. So, pull your wellies and your warm clothes on, bring out a hot thermos of tea and enjoy the idea that your hard work will be helping to produce a glorious garden in a few months time!”

and check regularly for any rotting or

Wyevale Garden Centres 10 tips to wind down your garden for winter: 1. Winter colour: Ward off the winter blues and cheer up your pots and borders with colourful winter flowering varieties such as cyclamen, pansy, polyanthus, and winterflowering daphne. If you’re planting these in ceramic pots, make sure the pots are frost resistant.

2. Plant spring bulbs: There’s nothing like the first spring bulbs poking their little heads through the soil for you to know that warmer weather is on the way. Plant flowering bulbs like daffodils, hyacinths and crocus in September; lilies, alliums and crocosmia in September and October and tulips in November for spring flowering. You can plant them almost anywhere; in beds, pots, under deciduous trees and shrubs, or naturalised n 18 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

compost such as John Innes No 3 – and remember to plant them the right way up!

3. Store summer flowering bulbs and tubers: Lifting and storing summer flowering bulbs and tubers will help them survive the winter to be replanted next year. Make sure they are completely dry before you store them damaged parts.

4. Lawns: If it’s not too wet, you can still scarify your lawn into October and mow and aerate it into November. You might even get away without mowing, unless there’s a mild spell and the grass keeps growing. In that case, you can just mow occasionally on a high cut setting. If your lawn gets a lot of wear and tear you might want to add an additional feed in autumn to help it rejuvenate through winter. Something like Scotts Lawn Builder Autumn Lawn Food works well.

5. Prune and protect: Cut back any perennials that have died down and prune roses, which you may also need to spray with a fungicide if they are diseased. Protect tender plants and keep them warm with horticultural fleece or bubble wrap, which doesn’t look quite as professional, but works just as well!

6. Evergreens: Some evergreens are as noted for their flowers and strong scents as they are for keeping their leaves through winter. Plant varieties such as Daphne bholua ‘Jacqueline Postill’, Coronilla valentina subsp. Glauca as well as viburnums and skimmias.

7. Storing compost: If you have unopened bags of compost, store them under cover or off the ground so rain can’t get in.

Any opened bags of compost may be

contaminated with microorganisms, so don’t use them for sowing seeds or cuttings next year, but for working into the garden to improve the soil.

8. Barbecues and outdoor furniture: It’s best – but not always possible - to keep barbecues and outdoor furniture in a shed or outbuilding over winter, but you can also invest in a specially made breathable cover that will help to protect your furniture from the elements. Clean and dry your furniture before putting it inside or attaching the cover and don’t leave your furniture on grass as it creates moisture, which can lead to damage. Winter is also a good time to treat wooden furniture with protective wood oil.

9. Garden tools: Scrape mud off spades and forks, or dip the blades in warm soapy water before drying if the mud is caked on and clean and oil metal blades on your tools before you put them away for winter. This will help to avoid rust. Store your tools as best you can to avoid damage and rust.

10. Sweep up leaves: You can keep sweeping up leaves and turn them into leaf mould, which is an environmentally friendly - and cost effective! - way to enrich your soil. Fill a dustbin bag with leaves, and then wet them to help rot them down. Tie up the bag and punch holes in it with a fork and store somewhere such as behind a shed or at the back of some shrubs. After a year or so, the leaf mould will turn into a great weed suppressing mulch and after two years, you’ll have a fine mould perfect for soil conditioning and making composts. n For more information about Wyevale Garden Centres, visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk.

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

Mel Penkoks

Rachel Seabright

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: mel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

Husqvarna 125BVX Blower Vac Offer price ÂŁ260

Husqvarna chainsaws from ÂŁ150

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NATURE NOTEBOOK © Linda Pitkin

Salmon Run

Did you know that you can age a fish by looking closely at its scales? It’s like counting the growth of a tree by reading its rings. Each scale has a series of rings that correlate with growth seasons; the rings are wide during the summer and narrow during winter. You can even work out whether the summers were good growing seasons by the width of the rings.

Although a few migrate in spring, for just a few weeks during October and November adult Atlantic salmon return from the sea to spawn in the upper reaches of rivers and if you head to the Severn or Teme you may be lucky enough to watch the last leg of this journey.

You do need to be patient but once you think about the extraordinary life of these fish, you’ll realise that seeing a leaping salmon is worth waiting for.

KEEP UP TO DATE Worcestershire Wildlife Trust @WorcsWT t worcestershirewildlifetrust G worcswildlifetrust.co.uk w

The fish that are currently swimming (or running as it’s more commonly known) up the Severn, will have been born here two to five years ago. Many will have headed out to sea just last year and they’ve been feeding voraciously on sand eels and herring ever since. Most salmon return in the autumn to the river in which they were born – they head upstream until the female finds a suitable fast-flowing, clean section of river with a gravelly bed. She uses her tail to create a depression and then lays her eggs; the accompanying male fertilises them and they cover up the eggs. The vast majority of salmon then die but a few females will head back to sea and return again to spawn next year.

As with most things, it’s not quite that simple. For us, it’s about names. For salmon, it’s about access.

n 20 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Salmon aren’t only known as salmon. When they’re very small they’re known, as with many fish, as ‘fry’.

As they grow, they’re known as ‘parr’; at this stage they develop blotches and bands along their flanks.

After about two years, the spots disappear as a silvery sheen takes over and the back of the fish turns greeny-brown – the salmon now become known as ‘smolt’ and it’s at this stage that they head to sea.

Once they’re ready to return to the river, they’re known as a ‘grilse’ and once they’ve spawned they’re known as ‘kelts’.

Whilst we’re battling with names, the fish are battling with barriers. Over the years we’ve put in weirs, locks and other barriers to help our navigation…but they’ve not always helped the fish’s migratory routes.

Our colleagues at the Unlocking the Severn project, however, are embarking on a programme of works to improve fish passage up the Severn by installing fish passes and undertaking work on some of the weirs; watch out for this over the next few years.

You can follow the salmon run on Twitter by following the hashtag #spawningwatch. Share your wildlife moments, ideas and experiences. n

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Dark and Stormy Brighten up the cold and dark November nights, by indulging in these illuminating health and beauty products.

HANDSOME HEROES With two full sized Elemis products this body/shaving duo is made for any man needing a go-to-groom. £29. Discover more at elemis.com

A|X ARMANI EXCHANGE CONNECTED Armani Exchange launch their first touchscreen smartwatch. The new watch features Google’s Wear OS and features a Snapdragon 2100 chip, being compatible with both iPhone and Android Phone. Features include, Heart Rate Tracking, Untethered GPS, assist on the wrist and swimproof functionality.

Available online at armaniexchange.com

COCO EAU DE PARFUM SPRAY A luxuriant oriental symphony that gradually reveals its contrasting notes.

50ml for £77, 100ml for £110

PEPTIDE 24/7 AMETHYST FACE ROLLER COLLECTION Facial rolling has long been praised for its beauty benefits. These can include boosting circulation, relaxing facial muscles, helping to eliminate toxins, stimulating lymphatic drainage and reducing puffiness. Includes: Peptide4 Night Recovery Cream-Oil, Peptide4 Thousand Flower Face Mask, Peptide4 Eye Recovery Cream and Amethyst Roller. Find the beauty boosting amethyst facial roller in the new elemis.com exclusive.

n 22 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

CRÉATION EXCLUSIVE OMBRE PREMIÈRE POUDRE

THE NEW YORK A contemporary women’s watch combining understated components with luxe finishes.

The New York has a minimalist radial silver case and soft nubuck leather strap in grey. £139 www.newgateworld.com

Noir Lamé £28 www.Chanel.com

LUMIE BODYCLOCK GLOW 150 WAKE UP TO DAYLIGHT SAD LIGHT

5A FIFTH AVENUE CRUSHED FAUX FUR THROW Crafted with a soft feel, faux fur design, this luxurious throw comes in a choice of stylish colours and is finished with a smooth mink reverse. £60, www.dunelm.com

Exclusive to John Lewis & Partners The Bodyclock Glow 150 from Lumie is a Class 1 graded medical device that aims to enhance your sleeping and wakeup patterns. £90 www.johnlewis.com

STERLING SILVER & BLACK SPINEL BEAD ORISSA BRACELET A black spinel bead bracelet with a sterling silver chain and beads finished with the Dower & Hall signature quatrefoil catch. Wear alone or add a charm to personalise! £75 www.anjapotze.com

n 24 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

MR.HAIR FIBRES Designed for ultimate accuracy and precision application of MR. HAIR FIBRES, the specially designed nozzle gives full control over the dosage and dispenses the fibres precisely where needed for even coverage £10.

MR Jamie Stevens Brown Hair Fibres 15g, £18 Stockists: Boots, boots.com and www.mrjamiestevens.com

Free Hand Surgery Advice Event Thursday 8th November, 6pm Spire Droitwich Spa, 29 Worcester Road, WR9 8AA

Tel: 01905 362011

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Competition

COLWALL PARK HOTEL

Colwall Park Hotel is a quintessential country house hotel dating back to 1904 and is situated in the foothills of The Malverns. It has 22 recently refurbished boutique style bedrooms, an award winning restaurant, beautiful gardens and is in an excellent location for walking or touring the hills and local area. Licensed as a wedding venue Colwall is perfect whatever the occasion.

Awarded 2 AA Rosettes, Colwall Park offers modern gourmet food using only the finest fresh local ingredients at one of the best restaurants in Malvern. Head chef Richard Dixon has a real passion for the area and is even known for foraging locally for wild garlic and herbs amongst others. He has recently started work on the kitchen garden plot to ensure the elegant newly refurbished dining room serves, seasonal and fresh local menus.

In two acres of beautiful gardens at the centre of peaceful Colwall village, halfway between Great Malvern and Ledbury, you can easily explore the breath-taking Malvern Hills, the picturesque Welsh Marches, or the Cotswolds. Footpaths from the hotel gardens lead directly onto the slopes of the hills. Cheltenham and the nearby cathedral cities of Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester are all close by.

Colwall Park is a dog friendly hotel - they have their own ‘paw wash’ station and even supply doggie ale in the bar! Four legged friends are welcome in selected bedrooms and in the hotel bar. They can provide you with maps of local walks and even lend you wellies if you forget yours!

Colwall Park Hotel Walwyn Road, Malvern WR13 6QG Tel: 01684 540000 | www.colwall.co.uk

To be in with a chance of winning an overnight stay for two guests inclusive of dinner, bed and breakfast at Colwall Park Hotel simply fill out the entry

NOVEMBER SPECIAL OFFER Enjoy a 2 course A La Carte dinner for two, including a starter and main course each, plus a bottle of house wine to share.

Just £49.00 per couple!

To make a reservation, please contact our reception team on 01684 540000

Answer:

form with the correct answer to the following question:

Name:

How many bedrooms does Colwall Park Hotel have?

Address: Tel:

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Colwall Park WN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP.

Email:

Closing date for entries is 21st November 2018. Terms and Conditions apply. n 26 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

If you wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Colwall Park Hotel please tick this box

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Eyebrows (Hairstroke or Shaded) Eyeliner (with Flicks or Shading) Lip Liner/Lip Blush Full Lip Colour

Anti-Aging Mesotherapy also available for young and mature skin types Contact me for yourfree consultation

07564013755 / info@detailpmu.co.uk / detailpmu.co.uk

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

Mel Penkoks

Rachel Seabright

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: mel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 27 n

FOOD & DRINK

Damson Parfait

with Honeycomb Crumb from Head Chef Mickey Provis at Green Cow Kitchens

Method Ingredients (Serves six) Parfait • 300g Damson Puree • 150g Sugar • 6 Egg Yolks • 75ml Water • 150ml Double Cream Damson Coulis (Sauce) • 400g of Damsons (stones removed) • 150g sugar • 200ml Water Honeycomb Crumb • 65g Golden Syrup • 90g Sugar • 1tsp Bicarbonate Soda

1. To make the parfait, boil the 150g sugar and 75ml water to 120°C temperature to a syrup.

2. Meanwhile whisk the 6 egg yolks until they leave a trail in the bowl.

3. Add the sugar syrup to the whisked egg yolks and keep whisking until cold and ribbon stage.

4. Whip the 150ml cream, then fold the 300g Damson purée and whipped cream into the egg mixture.

5. Place into small square moulds and freeze.

6. For the honeycomb, place the 65g Golden syrup and 90g sugar in a pan and bring to the boil.

7. Simmer until golden brown, then add the 1tsp bicarbonate of soda and mix. Pour onto greaseproof paper and, when cool, break into small pieces, like crumbs.

n 28 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

8. To make the coulis (sauce) poach the 400g Damsons, bring the 150g sugar and 200ml water together until they reach boiling point, remove and liquidise whilst still hot, pass the pulp through a fine sieve and chill the coulis in the fridge.

To Serve • Ideally serve in a large deep bowl.

• Drizzle some of the chilled sauce into the centre of plate so it forms an even pool.

• Remove the parfait from the moulds and lay in the centre of the plate on top of the sauce.

• Place the pieces of honeycomb crumb in a circle on top of the parfait.

• Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint. n Crumplebury Farm Whitbourne, Worcester, WR6 5SG 01886 821992 (office hours) mail@greencowgroup.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Buy British, Buy Best, Buy from your Local Butcheress!

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Why not visit us at our shop:

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A wide selection of homemade free range sausages available!

Follow us on Facebook @ thebutcheress

Available starting at £20 with FREE delivery

www.thebutcheressltd.com t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 29 n

FOOD & DRINK

Myrtle's Kitchen In the season of mellow fruitfulness lots of our friends are getting out their jam/ chutney pans and using all that nature throws at us at this time of year. For those of us either without the confidence, the time or even the inclination you can still get that home produced feel by buying from one of our own local producers.

Myrtle’s Kitchen is still a small company

I first discovered Myrtle’s Kitchen at Ludlow Food Festival in 2015 and bought 10 jars of their award winning Mango Chutney for my Christmas hampers. I am delighted that their range has expanded to include jams. Their website has expanded and getting jars from your local deli, farm shop or even garage means you can buy when you need it rather than just from food festivals.

work hard, and we laugh hard. Every day

and all the chutneys are made traditionally by hand but with a contemporary twist.

Chef Jane Raven uses her local knowledge and producer network to pick up the finest, freshest ingredients. It’s all about the personal touch.

Jane says “You have to be a little bit bonkers to be in the Myrtle’s crew.

We

in our Herefordshire based kitchen is a joy, especially as we walk out of the door and have a spectacular view of the Malvern Hills.

Life doesn’t get much better” Myrtle’s Kitchen did start with a mango and making copious amounts of their now

and family. That was in 2014 and now has a diverse range which continues to grow in number and sells from delicatessens to farm shops.

Their passion for what they do also continues to grow and they love to hear from their customers and your ideas for the Myrtle’s Kitchen range.

My new favourite is the Chuckleberry Jam - I was told a chuckleberry is cross between a redcurrant, a gooseberry, and a Jostaberry (itself a cross between a blackcurrant and a gooseberry). All I can say is Myrtle’s Kitchen turn them into mighty fine jam. n For Stockists, visit www.myrtleskitchen.co.uk

award winning mango chutney for friends

Lunch Two courses £12.95

Winner of the National Christmas Pub of the Year 2016

Evening Two courses £18.95 or Three courses £20.95

Runner-up 2017

Martley Road, Lower Broadheath, Worcestershire, WR2 6QG | Tel: 01905 640220 | www.thebellinnbroadheath.co.uk

n 30 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

FOOD & DRINK

with this voucher CODE: FIRTREEINN2

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 31 n

GOLDEN YEARS

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 33 n

GOLDEN YEARS

Norton Security have come up with the top ways that our accounts can be compromised whilst using social media.

Those that write viruses and other cybercriminals go where the numbers are and that includes popular social media sites. To help you avoid a con or viral infection, Norton has put together this list of the top five social media scams.

1. Chain Letters You’ve likely seen this one before -- the dreaded chain letter has returned. It may appear in the form of, “Retweet this and Bill Gates will donate $5 million to charity!”

But hold on, let’s think about this. Bill Gates already does a lot for charity. Why would he wait for something like this to take action?

Answer: He wouldn’t. Both the cause and claim are fake. So why would someone post this? Good question. It could be some prankster looking for a laugh, or a spammer needing “friends” to hit up later. Many wellmeaning people pass these fake claims onto others.

Action - Break the chain and inform them of the likely ruse.

2. Cash Grabs By their very nature, social media sites make it easy for us to stay in touch with friends, while reaching out to meet new ones. But how well do you really know these new acquaintances? That person with the attractive profile picture who just friended

The usual post is: You just received an urgent request from one of your real friends who “lost his wallet on vacation and needs some cash to get home.” So, being the helpful person you are, you send some money right away, per his instructions. But there’s a problem: Your friend never sent this

you and suddenly needs money -- is probably some cybercriminal looking for easy cash.

CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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www.eclipsehomecare.co.uk n 34 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 35 n

GOLDEN YEARS

request. In fact, he isn’t even aware of it. His malware-infected computer grabbed all of his contacts and forwarded the bogus email to everyone, waiting to see who would bite.

Action - To prevent this, make sure your Internet security includes antiphishing defenses.

Action - Call your friend. Inform him of the request, get him to update his anti virus software. Next, make sure your computer isn’t infected as well.

Beware of blindly clicking on shortened

3. Hidden Charges “What type of STAR WARS character are you? Find out with our quiz! All of your friends have taken it!” Hmm, this sounds interesting, so you enter your info and mobile phone number. After a few minutes, a text turns up. It turns out you’re more Yoda than Darth Vader. Well, that’s interesting … but not as much as your next month’s cell bill will be.

You’ve also just unwittingly subscribed to some dubious service that charges £9.95 every month and is not based in the UK. As it turns out, that “free, fun service” is neither.

Resource Locator,” the Web address) hides

Action - Be wary of these bait-and-switch games. They tend to thrive on social sites.

4. Phishing Requests “Somebody just put up these pictures of you at this wild party! Check ‘em out here!” Huh?

5. Hidden URLs URLs. You’ll see them everywhere on Twitter, but you never know where you’re going to go since the URL (“Uniform the full location. Clicking on such a link could direct you to your intended site, or one that installs all sorts of malware on your computer.

URL shorteners can be quite useful. Just be aware of their potential pitfalls and make Let me see that! Immediately, you click on the enclosed link, which takes you to your Twitter or Facebook login page. There, you enter your account info and a cybercriminal now has your password, along with total control of your account.

How did this happen? Both the email and landing page were fake. That link you clicked took you to a page that only looked like your intended social site. It’s called phishing, and you’ve just been had.

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We provide a wide range of services to enable our clients to enjoy their life at home and to ensure that loved ones can be assured that their family are being well cared for.

Our carers use the latest technology providing us with immediate feedback during care calls. This means that we respond very quickly to any problems and our clients are kept safe at all times.

Please call us or visit our website for more information about how we can help.

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worcester@radfieldhomecare.co.uk 6 King Charles Place, St John’s, Worcester WR2 5AJ

n 36 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

sure you have real-time protection against spyware and viruses.

Action - Sites that attract a significant number of visitors are going to lure in a criminal element, too. If you take security precautions ahead of time, such as using antivirus and anti-spyware protection, you can defend yourself against these dangers and surf with confidence. n For more information visit uk.norton.com

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t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 37 n

CHRISTMAS

Christmas

Across the County

Keep an Independent Mind This Christmas As you walk around Worcester

this month and soak up the festive atmosphere, don’t forget to keep an independent mind!

This Christmas as you shop, take advantage of the rich array of independent retailers that Worcester has to offer.

For unique gifts and thoughtful choices, Worcester’s independents have the pick of the bunch. Enjoy uncovering surprises, treats and trinkets for loved ones that simply can’t be found elsewhere.

From

jewellery

and

deli

to

accessories and clothing, and from chocolate and interiors to foodie and crafts, Worcester’s independents

will

have

the

perfect gift for everyone on your list: family, friends and more.As well as quirky one-off presents, talk to Worcester’s independent retailers for their knowledge and expertise to make sure you give the best gifts going. Rest assured, their passion and know-how will shine through, and you’ll have Christmas wrapped up in no time.

And for some well earned festive cheer with all the shopping done, enjoy the spirit of Christmas with Worcester’s independent restaurants and coffee shops.

Be it brunch, drunch, afternoon tea or simply coffee to go, get a flavour of Worcester’s independent Christmas as you wander through the city. n

Maid Marian

and the Merrymen Join the Worcester Repertory Company for the Swan Theatre’s latest spectacular, actionpacked pantomime!

The evil Sheriff of Nottingham is short of money. She has three plans: tax the peasants, fix the result of an archery competition, and marry her rich nephew to the soon-to-be-wealthy Maid Marian. Can Robin Hood save the day? Well, apparently not...

as it turns out, he’s a lover not a fighter. Can Dame Ginny step in and help? Not looking likely...

But what about the feisty Maid Marian? This #MaidInWorcester will lead the merry men to overthrow the Sheriff and prove that this girl really can! n For the full performance schedule visit worcesterlive.co.uk/pantomime.asp

n 38 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Cinderella

at The Regal Tenbury Join us for Tenbury’s Biggest Pantomime yet as The Regal welcomes the Mother of all Pantomimes, Cinderella!

The future looks rosy for Cinderella until her step sisters realise there’s a royal Prince on the lookout for a Bride.

This magical rags to riches tale will delight audiences of all ages.

With comedy, songs and family fun it has all the right ingredients for a festive, magical night out.

Come along and laugh with Buttons, watch Cinders and her Prince Charming fall in love and Boo as the Regal presents for the first time - the Ugly Sisters!

Cinderella’s life is awful now her ugly step sisters have taken over the running of the family home.

With only the forest animals for companions Cinderella has nothing to look forward to, until that is she meets a handsome stranger in the woods. Prince Charming is bored. Bored with his royal life and bored with the boring girls the King and Queen want him to marry until that is he meets a beautiful girl in the woods.

Now in its 5th year The Regal pantomime is an established tradition of Christmas and family fun in Tenbury Wells. This comedy pantomime guarantees to raise laughs and excitement for the whole family.

Special Relaxed Performance Wednesday 2nd January, 2.00pm.

Tickets from Only £11.00. n Visit www.regaltenbury.co.uk for more information.

OUR EVENTS DIARY

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 39 n

CHRISTMAS

Dick Whittington Christmas at Red at The Roses Tewkesbury House Glass Cone Adventure, Laughter, Magic, Fun and Excitement. These are just a few words that describe a trip to The Roses’ pantomime, and this year’s tale Dick Whittington promises all this and plenty more.

Tewkesbury’s traditional family pantomime has become a local institution and, for many families, provides one of the highlights of their festivities over the Christmas period. This year audiences will be treated to a spectacular performance of Dick Whittington, which sees the plucky title character set off on a daring mission across the seas with an eclectic band of companions. Filled with music and laughter throughout, there is no better antidote to the pressures that the season can often bring than two hours of pure unadulterated escapism!

The Roses’ festive show is brought to life by a talented cast and creative team, including writer and director Ben Crocker.

Complete with all of the magic and sparkle you would expect from a Christmas show, you will be transported to an exotic world of music, mayhem and pure escapism.

Dick Whittington runs at The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury from Saturday 1 December through to Saturday 5 January.

Performances vary in price, with tickets ranging from £15 - £25.

Family and group discounts are available on most performances.

To book tickets or simply find out more, please call Box Office on 01684 295074 or visit rosestheatre.org. n

n 40 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Red House Glass Cone is the ideal place for that unique, distinctive, bespoke and locally made Christmas gift.

Situated in the heart of Stourbridge’s historic Glass Quarter this historic site is open 10.00am-3.00pm MondayFriday and 11.00am-4.00pm Saturday- Sunday.

Visitors can wander around the site for free and explore the various craft studios on site and call in at the Red Cone Coffee House. The shop within the Visitor Centre houses a large range of products including studio and engraved glass.

On Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 November we have a Christmas Festival across the Glass Quarter, this includes a Teenage Market and chance to meet Mr and Mrs Santa Claus

at the Cone. The White House Museum of Glass and the Ruskin Glass Centre will be holding a Craft Market on this weekend, so the Stourbridge Glass Quarter is the ideal place to do your Christmas shopping.

Santa is at the Cone on the weekends of the 8 and 9, 15 and 16, 22 and 23 December between 11.30am - 3.30pm pre- booking is essential cost is £8.75 for over 3’s and £5.75 babes in arms. n For further information visit www.dudley.gov.uk/see-anddo/museums.

Facebook: Red House Glass Cone Twitter: @redhousecone Tel: (01384) 812750

CHRISTMAS

HOLIDAYS

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4 and 5 day tours From £170 per person Includes: Coach Travel in our Unbeatable leg room vehicles Free Car Parking No Pick Ups! Touring whilst at resort

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Tel: 01527 872857 / 875353

PLEASE QUOTE WORCESTERSHIRE NOW WHEN YOU CALL Visit our depot and view our coaches, we would love to see you! t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 41 n

CHRISTMAS

A Magical City at Christmas Historic Worcester is a magical city at Christmas. The picturesque streets come alive with festivities and the cathedral, bathed in a warm wintery glow, is a beacon for the city.

Worcester’s brilliant high street will ensure your shopping is completed with ease and that everyone gets that dream gift, bringing plenty of smiles on Christmas morning.

The traditional Victorian Fayre is a draw for thousands of visitors who want to step back in time and enjoy a Dickensian dream, while also shopping for unique gifts and sampling delicious food and drink.

The city also has everything you need to ensure your festive feast is a special one, from award-winning local food and drink producers, including experienced butchers selling farm-raised turkeys and geese, to stylish homeware shops offering the perfect finishing touches. n

The Fayre also has lots of familyfriendly entertainment and its immersive theatre, Gin Lane, brings a host of unsavoury characters to life, transporting audiences to an alternative Victoriana far away from genteel drawing rooms.

Worcester boasts an array of celebrated bars and restaurants, including family-run independents and well-known chains, and there are plenty of city centre hotels to welcome you for a good night’s sleep after a busy day.

Aladdin

at The Palace Theatre In a show packed full of Eastern promise, join us on the streets of Old Peking where you’ll meet the mischievous Aladdin, his dopey brother Wishee Washee and his poor but honest mother Dame Widow Twankey.

Prepare to go on a magic carpet ride to adventure, discover a mystical genie who lives in an enchanted lamp and who can grant the holder their every wish, but beware the evil magician Abanazer who is intent on world domination.

Aladdin features all of the ingredients of the perfect pantomime; laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery and special effects, gorgeous costumes and plenty of boos and hisses for all the family to enjoy.

Join star of the stage, professional dancer and Strictly favourite Robin Windsor as the magical Genie of the Lamp in this year’s production of, Aladdin. The title role is ably filled by the dashingly handsome Michael Auger from popular singing group Collabro who went on to win the 8th series of Britain’s Got Talent. Simon Howe returns to the Palace as tap dancing Dame Widow Twankey while the gorgeous Lousie Cannon takes on the role of love interest Princess Jasmine.

Don’t miss your flight! Grab your boarding card for our magic carpet ride to Old Peking for Christmas 2018! And fly down to the Box Office now and book your tickets today! n For more information visit redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk

Ragley Frost Fair fine foods from an abundance of stallholders, making The Frost Fair a great opportunity to find special presents.

Car parking is free of charge and located on the Ragley parkland at the front of Ragley Hall. We advise you to wear appropriate footwear.

Looking for a unique Christmas present or a festive treat? Look no further, as The Frost Fair opens at Ragley for it’s second year in 2018.

The event contains a carefully selected array of crafts, gifts, unique and original presents and n 42 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

The Frost Fair will be located within the lower ground floor of the House, with heated marquees on the west terrace.

Entertainment will include choirs, roving musicians, a magician and there may even be a visit from Father Christmas. n Tickets: Adults £5.50; Concessions: £4.50; Accompanied children (under 16): Free of charge.

Tickets available from www.battenburgevents.co.uk

CHRISTMAS

Held in the Under Hall and large heated marquees on the Eastern Terraces, Ragley Hall B49 5NJ

THE CHRISTMAS FROST FAIR WILL FEATURE: FATHER CHRISTMAS PLENTY OF FREE PARKING FINE FOODS, GIFTS AND CRAFTS ORIGINAL & UNUSUAL CRAFTS WONDERFUL GIFTS FOR FAMILY AND HOME MORNING COFFEE, LUNCHES AND AFTERNOON TEAS FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE, SIGHTS AND DELICIOUS SCENTS

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 43 n

What's On

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH

NOVEMBER Until Monday 5th

Tuesday 6th November Tuesday 18th December

Saturday 10th

Charity Christmas Cards

Worcester Cathedral, 7.30pm. The event,

The Big Pest Test - Creepy Crawly Edition

St John’s Library, St John’s. Cards for Good

which is raising funds for military charities,

The Firs, Elger Birthplace Museum, Lower

Causes is a multi charity initiative operating

blends

Broadheath. Can you pass The Big Pest

a national network of around 300 charity

Symphony

Test? With over 1000 items to look after we

Christmas card shops. Over the last 10 years,

Cathedral Choir and the voices of 70

have to make sure they are all looked after

the charity have given back approx. £40M

schoolchildren from across the county. It

from some dangerous Creepy Crawlies can

to these charities which represents at least

is the culmination of a special project

you help? Help our conservators find and

70p in every £1 from the sale of their cards.

that has been central to Worcestershire’s

identify the pests. 11-4pm. Free.

Shopping with use gives you the chance to

commemoration of the World War One

Tel: 01905 333330

support the causes that you really care about

Armistice. Tickets

whether that is mental health issues, cancer

Sunday 4th

from WSO at worcestershiresymphony.

patients, lifeboats and many more.

org.uk or Worcester Live 01905 611427,

Malvern Antiques & Collectors Fair

profits from our shops go directly towards

Three Counties Showground. The tri-

supporting their vital work.

annual antiques fair in Malvern features

time for goodwill and reaching out to friends

Kidderminster Male Choir

quality

collectable

and family. By choosing charity Christmas

Commemorative Concert

goods. Up to 150 indoor exhibitors await.

cards you are giving twice – sending a

Kidderminster Town Hall. Unique Midnight

Ceramics, glass, pictures, small furniture,

thoughtful message and also supporting a

World War I 100 years concert starts at

jewellery, treen, militaria, clocks and more.

worthwhile cause. There will also be a pop

11pm.

Early entry (8.30am) £4 or 10am for £3.

up in the Guildhall Worcester.

proud to be presenting a commemorative

Tel: 01636 676531

www.cardsforcharity.org.uk

art,

antique

and

Voices of Remembrance

All

the

talents

of

Orchestra,

Worcestershire the

from

£10

Worcester

available

worcesterlive.co.uk

Christmas is a

Kidderminster

Male

Choir

are

>>

Worcestershire

Now

If you would like to advertise in our next issue please contact our sales team.

Prams • Buggies • Cots • Furniture • Car Seats High Chairs • Bedding • Nursery Accessories Mattresses • Soft Toys • Clothes • and much more

Call us on 01386 750888

Open every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10-4, Saturday 10-5

Mel Penkoks

Rachel Seabright

Tel: 01905 727901 Email: mel@pw-media.co.uk

Tel: 01905 727900 Email: rachel@pw-media.co.uk

n 44 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Orchard Cottage Farm, Croome Road, Defford, Worcestershire WR8 9AS

www.pramandnursery.co.uk

OUR EVENTS DIARY

Call 01905 777119 Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm for more information or visit

www.hardingscoaches.co.uk

Birmingham Indoor International Tattoo

24th November 2018 - £42.00 Per Adult/Senior £37.00 Per Child. Britain’s biggest Indoor International Tattoo, with over 1,000 performers, bringing together marching bands & exciting displays, world class performers will join local groups to create a spectacle for all the family. We have the best available tickets in block 3, lower tier.

Windsor Castle and Afternoon Tea at The Harte & Garter Hotel

29th November 2018 - £59.50 Per Person. Travel only price £22.50 per person. Includes entrance to Megan Markle Wedding Dress Exhibition, Castle and Grounds.

ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS

Tel: 01905 621183 perfectpartners@talktalk.net

www.perfectpartnerstheheartofengland.co.uk

Abbey-Cwm-Hir Hall

4th December 2018 - £39.50 Per Person. As amazing way to start our Christmas, this grade II gothic revival property near Llandridnod Wells, is the only house in the UK to have all 52 rooms decorated to individual themes for Christmas.

Includes house tour and tea & mince pies.

Christmas Longleat Festival of Light

11th December 2018 - £49.50 Per Person. Set in the stunning parkland of Longleat House. The festival of light is held every year, featuring giant Chinese Lanterns across acres of gardens. Visit the house dressed for Christmas.

We will tour the safari park. Included admission to house & gardens, Safari Park, Festival of Light, please note: Only ground floor rooms are open during the Christmas period 3th December 2018.

Elf Christmas Spectacular Genting Arena, Matinee Performance Toy Shop Block 7, Lower Tier

22nd December 2018 - £62.00 Per Person. The cast features Father Christmas and a line-up of 70 performers, including children from local stage schools. The big special effects lined-up are incredible, including a giant sleigh which will fly across the arena, an indoor snow blizzard and lots of skating which all adds to this perfect Christmas story.

Dance Those Magical Musicals with Anton & Erin at the Birmingham Symphony

Saturday Matinee 14:30, 26th January 2019 - £67.75 Per Person. The world of ballroom meets musical theatre with Anton & Erin – Dance Those Magical Musicals – their brandnew tour for 2019. Stalls T to X – Makes a great Christmas gift.

Local Pick-up Points: Worcester, Droitwich, Bromsgrove & Redditch

t @WorcestershireNow | G Worcestershire Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 45 n

What's On memorial concert in support of the British

Lorikeet Landing, Creepy Crawlies, Mark

in a life time event, the Orchestra of St.

Legion

concert

O’Shea’s Reptile World, African Village and

John will join forces with additional guest

commences 11pm on Saturday November

the popular Sea Lion Show! Fireworks start

players, conducted by Richard Jenkinson.

10th until 12.30am November 11th. At one

at 6.30pm and there’ll be a delicious range

Special Guests - The Orchestra of St John.

minute to midnight there will be a two

of refreshments available throughout the

Doors open 6.45pm; Screening at 7.45pm.

minute silence followed by the reading of

evening! Admission (everyone aged 3+) -

Please note there will be no interval

‘We will remember them’ and the Kohima

£16 per person. Wristbands on the night

during the screening. Tickets: £15 per

Epitaph ‘When you go home’ The choir

from £8.

person. Tickets can be booked online at:

Poppy

Appeal.

The

will be joined by ‘Berkley Square’ who will

www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk/whats-on

perform their fantastic repertoire. After

Sunday 11th

midnight the concert will concentrate on

The Battle of the Somme

music, poetry and words befitting of such

Film Screening with Live Orchestra

Curators Talks - A Happy Convalescence

an occasion. For more information contact

Routh

Worcestershire

Steve Conway 01562 850 054.

School. A truly unique and spectacular

Hartlebury Castle. A monthly programme

screening

Concert the

Bromsgrove

extraordinary

County

Museum,

and

of fascinating talks by the team of Museum

Saturday 10th - Sunday 11th

original silent film, The Battle Of The

Curators, including a chance to get up

Firework Festival Weekend

Somme. Digitally remastered and with a

close to some of the collection. 1-2pm.

West Midland Safari Park. Enjoy spectacular

score commissioned by the Imperial War

Tickets are £4 and must be pre-booked.

fireworks, a roaring bonfire, late-night rides

Museum in 2016 to mark the centenary

Contact: jboulton@worcestershire.gov.uk.

and music to bring the party alive! Open

of the battle of the Somme, Laura Rossi’s

Tel: 01299 250416.

at the later time of 1pm and you can enjoy

powerful music will be performed live by

the walk-through areas including the brand

a sixty-piece orchestra on the concert

new Ice Age, Land of the Living Dinosaurs,

platform in Routh Hall. For this once

n 46 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

of

Hall,

Thursday 15th

>>

OUR EVENTS DIARY

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What's On Friday 16th

Saturday 17th

The Simon Garfunkel Story

Afternoon Concert with

Thursday 29th November Sunday 2nd December

Forum Theatre, Malvern. Show Times:

Worcester Philharmonic orchestra

Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre

7.45pm. Now seen by over a 1/4 million

Pershore Abbey. In the centenary of the

Worcester City Centre. Open: Thursday

people across the world, ‘The Simon and

ending of the first world war, Worcester

29th: 12-9pm; Friday 30th: 11-9pm; Saturday

Garfunkel Story’ is a critically acclaimed

Philharmonic

an

1st: 10-8pm; and Sunday 2nd: 11-5pm. The

concert style theatre show about two

Armistice

Concert,

Victorian Fayre was first started back in 1992

young boys from Queens, New York who

sponsored by Pershore Town Council. The

by traders from picturesque New Street

went on to become the world’s most

orchestra is joined by Claire Warboys as

and Friar Street. Now in its 26th year, the

successful music duo of all time. Using

Vesta Tilley narrator, and Chris Parsons.

Fayre may have grown a lot but it has stayed

state of the art video projection, incredible

The concert includes the world premier of

true to its traditional roots with plenty of

lighting and a full live band ‘The Simon &

the orchestral version of the “Long road

Victorian themed characters, festive treats

Garfunkel Story’ is a moving and powerful

to Passchendaele” by local composer,

and a wonderful atmosphere. This year

concert featuring all the hits such as ‘Mrs

Tom Wells as well as many well-known,

there will be almost 200 stalls across the city

Robinson’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’,

evocative pieces that tell the story of

centre, selling local arts and crafts, delicious

‘Homeward Bound’, ‘Scarborough Fair’,

the first world war in music and speech.

street food and gifts. As well as a wonderful

‘The Boxer’, ‘The Sound Of Silence’

The concert is followed by fireworks in

array of stalls, we are looking forward to a

and many more, this is a show not to be

Pershore Abbey park at 5pm. Tickets are

fantastic programme of entertainment to

missed! Tickets are priced at £21.84 &

£12 (children free) available at the door,

celebrate the event’s special anniversary.

£19.60. Members discounts apply. Prices

Tourist information Centres (Pershore,

Look out for Victorian characters in Gin

include 12% booking fee.

Worcester, Malvern) or from Blue, Broad

Lane, lofty entertainers on stilts, brilliant

Street, Pershore. Season tickets available

musicians on our stages and buskers on

at ticketsource.co.uk

every street corner.

n 48 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Orchestra

performs

Commemoration

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KEEPING ACTIVE

Start/Finish: The Walk starts and ends at the new bridge at Eastham, 5 miles east of Tenbury Wells – Mistletoe Capital of England!

Public Transport: Not easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Railway Station is at Worcester with a ‘Yarranton’ 758 bus to Tenbury Wells passing Eastham Bridge. Please note that Eastham Bridge across River Teme is now open! Please also be aware of the infrequent bus times and the last bus to connect to Worcester. Return to bus stop at Eastham Bridge 10 mins before bus is due and be prepared to wait for up to ½ hour before contacting the bus garage at nearby Eardiston. Tel. No. 01584 881229. Check times with ’Traveline’.

Parking: Parking near Church (except when service on) or in village of Eastham (near Memorial Hall) then do circular walk from point 7.

O/S Map: Explorer Map 203.

Distance: Approximately 5 miles. Short route - 3 miles (points 7 to 10).

Time: Allow all day to do this ‘rural’ walk.

Refreshments: You will need a picnic and drinks as there are no shops or eating places in the vicinity. Nearest food outlets at Tenbury Wells.

Terrain: This walk is gently undulating with a few moderate climbs. The walk trends ‘upwards’ out and ‘downwards’ back. There are stiles, gates, footbridges and a few steps making this walk unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Nearby ‘Tenbury Wells’ is a ‘wheel-friendly’ town. Boots are essential due to uneven paths and muddy areas. Poles are extremely useful.

This is a ‘Winter-Wellies’ Walk.

History: Eastham Bridge collapsed into the Teme on 24th may 2016 and was reopened the following year after a 10 mile detour for local residents. Tenbury is known as the ‘Mistletoe Capital of England’ and this walk takes you around one of the ‘growing’ areas near Tenbury Wells. There have been mistletoe auctions at Tenbury for over 100 years. Organic grower featured on Quad Bike from family run business ‘Kiss Me Mistletoe’ farms some of the orchards you will walk through near Eastham Church and his mistletoe boughs in their traditional cloth ‘wraps’ are bound for the London market.

1. The walk starts off A443 at Eastham Bridge over River Teme. In 1790, Reverend Christopher Whitehead raised enough funds to build a bridge in 1793/4. In 1898 the bridge was transferred to Worcestershire County Council. When Tenbury Road was widened in 1908, the old toll-house was demolished. The ‘new’ bridge was clad using materials salvaged from the old bridge which collapsed on 24th May 2016. Work commenced on October 30th 2016 and this 35 metre single span steel bridge was opened to traffic on 17th April 2017. Walk up lane.

2. Turn right towards 12th century Church of St. Peter and St.Paul in Parish of Eastham (Teme Valley). It is worth a look inside Church as you pass by and you can exit from far end of Churchyard to rejoin lane near Court Farm.

3. Just beyond farm, follow concrete drive. Pass footpath on right taking path through large gate and walk up left side of field with hedge on left to reach orchard. Walk up left side of orchard following footpath round to right climbing gently up slope for a few hundred yards, turn left and walk up to lane.

4. Turn right along lane to ‘bridleway’ on left. Follow left hand hedge down across brook via footbridge and through gate at far end. Walk up slope veering slightly left towards top of hill. From hill-top, walk left down to ‘The Old Farm’. Go through small metal gate to right of this timber-framed farmhouse and follow hedge on left out through big gate onto lane.

5. Turn left to pass front of ‘The Old Farm’. Go over small rise then follow lane down over bridge across a brook, passing several young orchards and an Alpaca farm. A grower said that ‘Mistletoe’ favours older orchards. The main propagators of this ‘parasitic’ plant are the Mistle Thrush and Black Cap which eat berries wiping their sticky beaks on the bark of trees where it takes root and feeds off the tree.

6. At Hockerill’s Farm/Mill, turn right down bridleway to corner then take footpath through two large gates and across frontage of ‘Robin’s End’. Follow this path in a straight line for ½ mile, crossing two ‘cropped’ fields, via a tall tree in hedge, to exit in lane near Eastham Village. n 50 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018

Mistletoe Boughs around Eastham

near Tenbury Wells

7. (Note: Short walk turns left here then right to point 10). Main walk continues ‘right’ along lane to Memorial Hall taking left fork towards Orleton for half a mile, crossing ‘Piper’s Brook’.

8. Take footpath on left that goes straight towards steeple on ‘Lindridge Church’.

9. Follow woodland fence left and walk with woodland on right for ½ mile. Follow ridge (‘Hogs Back’) known as ‘The Slip’ bearing left slightly to reach track. Either turn left along track to lane then follow road ‘right’ back to Eastham Bridge (recommended if muddy) or cross track and go through gate down slope to footbridge over Piper’s Brook’. Walk up bank and keep straight on to reach lane.

10. Turn right and follow lane round for ½ mile to Eastham bridge. n Written and illustrated by Glynis Dray

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n 52 | Worcestershire Now | Issue 183 | November 2018