Wye Valley Now - MARCH 2018

Wye Valley Now AND THE MARCHES

Jewellery

Hereford's

Hidden Gem See page 29 for more information

Spring your lawn back to life Our gift guide for mother’s day have you got the time please? march 2018 | Issue 76

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

HEREFORD CARPETS

Hereford Carpets have been serving the city of Hereford and the surrounding area for over 10 years. We carry an extensive range of quality carpets in a variety of styles to suit all tastes and at very competitive prices.

Quality Carpet • Natural Carpet • Wood Flooring Vinyl Flooring • Laminate Flooring • Designer Flooring Residential Flooring • Commercial Flooring Hereford Carpets, 23A Commercial Road, Hereford, Herefordshire HR1 2BD, United Kingdom n 2 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

Tel: 01432 340 310 Tel: 01432 341 595 Email: info@herefordcarpets.co.uk

Wye Valley Now

08

AND THE MARCHES

14

18

Contents

28

MARCH 2018

HOME & GARDEN 8

Refurb Your Home for Under £5000

14

Spring Your Lawn Back to Life

17

Caravan Stuff 4 U

18

Nature Notebook

Health & Beauty 20

Our Gift Guide for Mother’s Day

22

Pretty in Print

26

Specsavers

28

Mother’s Day Around the World

w y e va l l e y

NOW

editor

design

Eastnor Castle

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

Paul Blyth paul@pw-media.co.uk

Caravan Stuff 4 U

Advertising

01905 723011

Suzie Scott 01905 727906 suzie@pw-media.co.uk

2nd Floor, Richardson House 24 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP

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

nowmagazine.co.uk

22

Bex Small bex@pw-media.co.uk

Contributors Front Cover: John McKellar www.johnmckellar.co.uk Glynis Dray Sapey Golf Club

Green Thumb Frances Weeks Specsavers - Ledbury Pershore Patty Age UK Hereford & Localities Pitman Training Richard Wheeler Fusion Communications

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30

36 42

Food & Drink 30

Recipe Coconut & Tomato Lentil Curry

32

What’s in Season

34 Frome Vineyard

Golden Years

48

49

36

Have You Got the Time Please?

41

Shaw Care Homes

Education 42

An Oxford First!

44

Primary School Improvements

46 Pitman Training

Our Events Diary 48

Wye Valley Walks

49

The Folklore of Herefordshire

50

Competition Ludlow Point to Point

54

What’s on this month?

competition winners Colwall Park S. Sutton, Creden Hill Cheltenham Racecourse H. Campbell, Malvern

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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 Wye Valley Now magazine your name and address may be forwarded to the host of said competition.

n 4 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

KENTCHURCH COURT

WEDDING VENUE Exclusive venue hire with packages tailored to suit each bride and groom

BEAUTIFUL SETTING FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY. For more information or to arrange an appointment

please contact Jenny on 07985558574 or email: kentchurchweddings@outlook.com t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 5 n

here & Now

Royal EGGstravanganza at Eastnor Castle

Golf Club Saved From Closure Celebrates 100 New Members Last summer the doors of Sapey Golf Club were due to close for good when, with only days to go, Wyldecrest Golf & Leisure bought the Club as a going concern.

Seven months on and the newly named Sapey Golf & Country Club is thriving following an initial programme of investment which has seen drainage works on the course, new IT and security systems and repairs to the course’s signature hole water features. But that’s not all, many of the original members have re-joined and innovative membership offers have attracted many young players to join a golf club for the very first time, swelling membership numbers by over 100 in little under 7 months.

“We feel that it’s so important to make sure that the veil of elitism in golf is lifted and memberships are available to all who wish to play” says Sales and Marketing Manager, Cheryl Waring.

“We have created a membership level for occasional golfers as well as offering junior membership absolutely free of charge. To secure our future we have to keep recruiting young members and we are delighted that the average age of our membership has dropped from 64 to 59 in just over six months” adds Cheryl.

The club have also introduced a successful programme of social events which have become the talk of the area, “The January Abba and Rod Stewart tribute nights were complete sell outs, says Cheryl, ”The format of offering supper and a show out here in the sticks is very appealing”. So much

so that the club has introduced social membership for the first time in its history with 49 members joining in the first 3 months.

Wyldecrest Chairman and CEO, Alfie Best is a regular visitor in the Clubhouse investing energy to guide his team to ensure the future success of the Club. He always has time to hear the views of members and staff at all levels but doesn’t see himself as the Club’s owner, “I just steer the ship, my team and I are just caretakers of this business. The real success is building a business that can sustain itself far into the future, long after we’re gone and we do that by putting people at the heart of what we do”.

Alfie knows a thing or two about developing businesses. Having started Wyldecrest Parks in 2001, it has grown to be Europe’s largest holiday park operator with more than 60 sites in the UK. “I have no doubt that Sapey Golf and Country Club is the first of a string of golf clubs that we will have the privilege of nurturing to success”, continues Alfie, “Once we have a winning formula for a business, we replicate and grow that brand”.

In the meantime, membership at the Club continues to grow and at a recent new member welcome evening Alfie Best announced the imminent arrival of three golf lodges for play and stay golf, confirmed that the new swing simulator installation project is set for a spring 2018 opening and that plans to build a new swimming pool and gym were advancing well.

n 6 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

The much-loved family treasure hunt at Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, will be taking place over the Easter weekend every day from Good Friday 30th March to Bank Holiday Monday 2nd April between 11am and 5.30pm.

This year’s treasure hunt is a Royal EGGstravaganza around the castle and grounds and visitors will need to follow a map and solve clues to work out which famous royal wedding couples the bunnies are dressed up as.

The Castle General Manager David Littlewood says “We thoroughly enjoy hosting our Easter Treasure Hunt each year and this year we’ve decided to have some fun around the royal wedding theme as we hope it’s something our visitors will be interested in. We’re looking forward to welcoming lots of local families to Eastnor Castle this year and hope they will enjoy everything we have to offer, including a new set of rope-swings throughout the grounds” Every child taking part in the Royal EGGstravaganza Treasure Hunt will receive a chocolate treat and there will be a draw at the end of each day when one lucky family will win a giant chocolate egg in a basket! In addition, the Knight’s Maze, junior obstacle course, adventure playground, tree-top walkway, woodland play area, castle shop, ice cream parlour and tea room will also be open throughout the weekend.

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Home & Garden

Refurb Your Home

for under £5000

In

March

the

National

Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns to the NEC in Birmingham on the 22nd – 25th March. The

property, and more in some instances.

Start by removing old tired floor coverings, curtains and as much clutter and nick knacks

Repaint the woodwork such as skirting, architrave and doors, in a complementary neutral colour.

as possible. Prepare the walls so they are

If you have found lovely wooden floors,

ready for painting, stripping old wallpaper

these can be sanded down then stained

and sanding and filling to get a smooth

or painted. If they are not in good enough

finish. If the walls are in very poor condition

condition wooden laminate is from just

it is best to get a local plasterer to reskim

£3-4/m2. Using the same neutral carpet

with a finishing coat of plaster throughout

throughout your home is a great way of

Cosmetic Makeover

the house creating walls that are completely

creating flow and there are great savings to

Michael suggests that a property that

new. The approximate cost for a three

be had by buying larger quantities. Update

is looking unloved, full of clutter with

bedroomed average house is about £2000.

the light fittings and shades for inexpensive

tired decor and a worn out kitchen and

You can then repaint the walls in a nice light

new ones. If the bathroom suite is out of

bathroom can be transformed for under

neutral shade, such as an off-white, and the

date, replace it with a simple new white

£5,000.

makeover

same on the ceilings. This will reflect light

suite (from only £300-£400). If you have the

scheme can up to 10% to the value of a

and make the property feel more spacious.

budget, consider updating the kitchen too.

show is an excellent inspiration for anyone considering a home make over. Their expert Michael Homes recently shared his ideas for the best ways to spend a budget of less than £5000.

A

clever

cosmetic

Continued over the page Continued over the page

n 8 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

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Home & Garden

Having an en-suite to the master bedroom is a must-have for many new puchasers and young families.

Update the Kitchen Giving your old kitchen units a new look can be easily achieved without tearing it all out and for a fraction of the cost of a totally new kitchen. If you like the layout and storage space, keep your carcasses and simply replace the doors, handles, worktops, sink, taps and splashbacks for a fresh look. If you look at a new standard kitchen (including handles but excluding appliances and worktops) that costs about £3,500, around £2,200 of the price goes on the carcasses. Replacement doors starting from around £20-50 per door will save on the units and labour costs, but also on a lot of disruption. If you want to change your kitchen’s layout, you can reuse the existing carcasses for one run, and add new ones elsewhere, and then fit matching doors and worktops, or choose two complementary styles.

Adding an En-Suite Shower Room Having an en suite to the master bedroom is a musthave for many new purchasers and young families.

This improves privacy and neatly solves the morning conjestion in larger households. Providing the layout is carefully thought through, an en suite shower room need not be very large – a space as small as 0.9m x 2.7m is adequate for a WC, basin and 900mm square shower n 10 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

tray, and anything larger than this is a bonus. A wet room design, where the floor forms the shower tray, with an in-floor drain, can fit in even less space - just 0.9m x 2.4m. Space can be found by subdividing one end of a large bedroom using a timber or metal framed stud wall.

Alternatively, a section of an adjacent bedroom can be divided off using a stud wall, and a new doorway formed in the partition wall. A simple shower room can be built for about £3,000 including stud/metal framing, basin and taps, enclosed cistern WC, shower mixer and arm, tray, door and basic white tiles.

Makeover the Garden Or at the very least tidy it up! An attractive, tidy and well designed garden can make a property far more saleable and will in turn add to its value. Make sure you carry out the basics: clean up and remove the dead plants; remove all weeds; repair and feed the lawn; cut back overgrown and prune trees and shrubs. Then create interesting shapes with beds and borders, adding in colour and interest with planting. Most garden work can all be done on a DIY basis but a designer to give you a layout to work to is a good investment.

Continued over the page

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Home & Garden

Removing tired and out of vogue features can restore it’s property’s value by widening it’s appeal.

n 12 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

An Exterior Makeover If your home’s exterior is looking tired or is characterless you can do a great deal to improve its kerb appeal and add value in the process. Clean down and repaint the windows, doors and garage door, plus any external joinery such as bargeboards of fascia and soffits. Removing tired and out of vogue features can restore a property’s value by widening its appeal, as can reinstating period features. Adding a well chosen porch or porch canopy in a style appropriate to the existing house can do a lot to provide a focal point and add character. If the roof is covered in moss you can clean this off with a pressure washer but be sure not to do any damage to the tiles of slates. Repair any cracks or damage to render, brick or stonework, including repainting if necessary. If the walls are patchy or the house has been altered, repaired or extended using different mismatching materials, consider painting with masonry paint. If you have green fingers, an alternative would be to plant a fast growning climbing plant, Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus Quinquefolia, provides quick cover it is a fast-growing vine that clings to walls and other surfaces. The leaves turn brilliant colours in the Autumn and can work wonders in hiding an ugly exterior. Be sure to keep any vine well trimmed to keep the kerb appeal. n

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Home & Garden

Spring Your Lawn

Back to Life!

Spring cleaning your house is traditional, but your lawn too deserves the same TLC to keep it healthy, weed-free, and looking its best for the busy Summer ahead.

Households in Herefordshire, Brecon, Abergavenny, Ebbw Vale and Tredegar can contact GreenThumb, the UK’s premier lawn care company. Its mission, as THE specialist local expert, is simple: to give customers a wonderful lawn and exceptional service.

GreenThumb Abergavenny offers a wide range of Lawn Care Programmes, from a top-quality Spring Treatment to the best-ever, brand-new Lawn Makeover. It gives your grass all it needs, at exactly the right time, and throughout the year. And it tailors all its programmes/ treatments to your turf’s needs.

The standard seasonal programme – in Spring, EarlySummer, Late-Summer, and Autumn-Winter – provides a finely ‘balanced diet’ to ensure maximum benefit. Each treatment is customised to target weeds, feed the lawn and n 14 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

control moss, and so ensure a continuous pinnacle of health.

Lawnmowing Tips GreenThumb Worcester advises on how correct lawnmowing on dry and sunny days can make a huge difference. It specifically recommends: • Always sharpen or replace your lawn mower blade regularly, to avoid tearing the grass.

• Never remove more than one quarter the grass height in any one cut. Cutting it too short can weaken the grass and encourage weeds, moss and lawn disease.

• Remove grass clippings which contribute to surface thatch and then moss.

Continued over the page

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Home & Garden Good Spring weather allows GreenThumb Lawn

ultimate lawn. You can replace old, dying or poor-

Operatives to apply a special seasonal fertiliser –

quality turf full of coarse and weed-grasses, with the

formulated to work even in cooler temperatures – to

most luxurious, green and weed-free lawn possible. Re-

give grass essential nutrients to grow strong and vibrant

turfing is often a householder’s first thought – but our

in colour. They also control any emerging, young weeds,

Makeover is far superior and saves around 50%.”

especially broad-leaved such as Dandelions, with a selective post-emergence herbicide.

GreenThumb

uses

unique,

bespoke

GreenThumb Abergavenny leads the way locally, setting the gold standard others may try to follow. The team

products

–

especially their exclusive range of Nutragreen® fertilisers – to ensure the best possible results. Their lawn operatives are professionally trained to advise and treat to the highest specifications.

As the very first to operate in the UK and with over 30 years of experience, GreenThumb is the largest and most recommended by customers. Proof of this is its Which? Trusted Trader accreditation. The Abergavenny branch treats the lawns of over 3,000 customers a year, with up to 40% recommendations from their highlysatisfied customers.

Unique Lawn Makeover If you want THE GreenThumb lawn – the bestever possible – the company has just launched its unique, exclusive, and revolutionary Lawn Makeover programme! It creates a perfect lawn, at a fraction of the cost, time, and inconvenience of laying new turf!

GreenThumb Abergavenny owner, Len Granger, says: “Our Makeover is ideal for anyone who wants the

n 16 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

would love to hear from you. For a free, no-obligation appointment and quote, you can: • Call 01981 550503 or email abergavenny@greenthumb.co.uk • Visit www.greenthumb.co.uk/branch/abergavenny • Measure your own lawn at www.greenthumb.co.uk/measure for an estimate. n

Have You Treated Yourself to

a New Caravan or Motorhome?

Caravan Stuff 4 U is an independent, family run business that has been serving the local community and beyond for around 14 years.

Its aim is to provide top quality goods at sensible prices, along with sound advice from fellow caravanners. From small beginnings the company now sources more than a million pounds worth of caravan & camping accessories and spares for

you every year - and this number is growing!

With their outdoor awning display and well stocked shop, choosing goodies to bring extra space, comfort and luxury to your home from home is a pleasure. You’ll also find all the essentials like Calor gas,

kettles and loo chemicals too. If you are new to the hobby, they can help you kit out your van with everything you need – pop in or shop online for free UK delivery. They even offer 0% finance on larger purchases (t&c’s apply) and gift vouchers if you really can’t decide what to choose! n

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nature’s notebook

Herefordshire's Living Landscapes The Doward is made up of two limestone hills around which the River Wye has carved a steep-sided gorge It is a wonderful patchwork of habitats, including ancient beech woodland, fragments of flower-rich grasslands, old hedgerows and limestone outcrops, and is home to some of the counties rarest plants and animals. This patchwork which is so good for wildlife owes a lot to the complicated history of the area.

Wildlife The flora and fauna within these habitats is diverse. It includes greater and lesser horseshoe bats in the caves and dormice in the woodlands; rare butterflies such as pearl bordered fritillary, wood white and grizzled and dingy skippers; woodland birds such as pied flycatcher, lesser spotted woodpecker and hawfinch. The plant list is also long and contains at least eleven orchid species!

The Doward also displays a huge range of fungi with over two hundred species recorded. Devil’s bolete, giants club, olive club and entoloma bloxamii are but a few of these rarities, mainly seen in the autumn months.

History The landscape is shrouded in ancient legend but it’s recent industrial history is more obvious.

Excavations at King Arthur’s Cave, show archaeological evidence that the cave served as a more permanent shelter for human inhabitants all the way back to neolithic times. The most interesting inhabitants were animals however and bones of giant elk, mammoths, woolly

n 18 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

rhino, horse, cave bear, hyena and lions, along with flints used by hunters of the paleolithic and mesolithic eras have all been found.

Herefordshire has many Iron Age hill forts and there is a significant one at the Little Doward near King Arthur’s Cave. These forts were established due to the Doward’s strategic location but also the presence of large quantities of Iron ore which has been worked on the Doward since the iron age, leaving large quarries and pits throughout the landscape. This iron working continued through to at least the late middle and it is very likely that the Doward was heavily populated through these periods. On the Great Doward remains of medieval and more recent walls can be seen and these are often topped with strangely shaped contorted old beech trees. These are the remnants of field systems and hedges linked to the many old cottages which can still be seen in places.

From around 1700 onwards larger scale limestone quarrying has also left its mark on the landscape as can be seen at the Trust’s Lord’s Wood Quarry nature reserve which was in operation until the 1970s. n

The Herefordshire Wildlife Trust manages a cluster of reserves on the Doward: King Arthur’s Cave, Leeping Stocks, Lord’s Wood, Lower Wood, Miner’s Rest, White Rocks and Woodside which, with the exception of Lord’s Wood Quarry, are open to the public year-round.

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01432 818 148

Don’t Forget!

11

MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY 11TH MARCH Flowers to Take Your Breath Away ‘The Florist of King Street’ No.1 King Street, Hereford, HR4 9BX E: sarah-janesflorist@outlook.com Tel: 01432 371221 t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 19 n

Health & Beauty

Our Gift Guide

for Mother's Day...

Here’s our Mother’s Day gift guide. Whether you know her taste to a ‘t’ or you’re totally stuck, you’ll find something perfect for her here.

1

2

4

3

n 20 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

Health & Beauty

5

7

6

1. NATURA SIBERICA

Love the benefits of active charcoal face masks but don’t have a spare 20 minutes to leave them on? Well, it seems those in the know can’t get enough of Natura Siberica’s Northern Soap Detox for Deep Facial Cleansing. What’s more, this award-winning soap is certified organic and packed full of adaptogenic wild harvested Siberian herbs and berries, rich in valuable oils and vitamins. With a gorgeous almond aroma, this soap is easy to use, simply apply to the skin with the soft sponge, which is included in the box, and then wash off. No waiting, no peeling, no mess and no fuss.

£12.00

2. ELEMIS

Finding a product that works to deliver a 24hour solution to radiant skin can prove difficult.

ELEMIS Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules work to deliver around the clock replenishment.

These purifying pods contain Moringa Oil which provides 1700% more anti-oxidant power than other essential oils, quickly rejuvenating your skin. Medical-grade Rose Absolute in the pink morning capsule works to hydrate, whilst the Lavender Essential Oil in the green evening capsule relaxes, balancing skin before sleep.

£66.00

3. ELEMIS

If your mum is new to the Pro-Collagen range, the Pro-Collagen Starter Collection is the perfect introductory collection to gift this Mother’s Day. With four of the best-selling Pro-Collagen products, this curated collection will provide her with a potent marine regime, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Complementing our hero Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30 (30ml), the Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (20g) is a luxurious cleanser that removes all beauty products from skin in an instant, leaving the face renewed with a glowing complexion. To complete the set, the Pro-Collagen Advanced Eye Treatment (15ml) and the Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Mask (1 pair) will be a saviour this Mother’s Day, with instant hydration and firming for a more youthful appearance around the eyes.

selected an anti-puffiness and anti-dark circle complex, which decongests and energises the eyes, as well as a moisturising complex to smooth and firm the eye contour and combined them with the three BLUE SERUM longevity ingredients.

£57.00

5. CULT51 A revolutionary 3D experience, Cult51 Day Cream has been formulated with high quality active ingredients to leave skin softer, firmer, and more luminous from the inside out. Day Cream is the ultimate moisture-boosting cream, with skin still 20% more hydrated after 12 hours than before it was applied.

£65.00

£40 - 20ml £100 - 50ml

4. CHANEL

6. ELEMIS

In 2018, the BLUE SERUM line expands with a care product specifically for the eye area, made for those in search of instantly fresh and luminous eyes with youthfulness that lasts.

It is widely known that the eye contour is a delicate and vulnerable area subject to dehydration and premature ageing. In order to meet these needs, CHANEL Research has

For the third-year in a row, ELEMIS is proud to support Women for Women International with the launch of a Limited Edition Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 100ml designed exclusively by British Accessories Designer Karen Mabon.

£99.00

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Health & Beauty

e r P

n i y tt

n 22 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

t n i r P

rn retu a to ing one, t n i o ry re p it eve a s u t! nd os r tre look t in prin e m r c PAGE HE Sum classi s bette RT d OVE k an -a ed nu ing prints ing loo nti r o p C S h l ora everyt fl f o , r all afte Falling Dandelion Print Ruffle Dress | ÂŁ69.00 www.sosandar.com

Suz Ladies Fashions

Stockists of Pomodoro Alice Collins Marble, H & O Harvey Jackets Anna Montana Emreco, Lebek Casamia & Tivoli.

01885 489 264

SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTIONS NOW IN

16 High Street, Bromyard, HR7 4AA

Wyestyles

Ladies, adies, Mens & B Babies abie iess C Cl Clothing lot o hingg & Accessori Accessories

Spring collections of Adini, Intown, Lily & Me and Duke now in stock Personal Service • Relaxed Shopping • Restaurant Facilities • Free Parking

OPENING TIMES: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5.30pm Sunday 11am - 5pm The Hop Pocket Shopping Village, Bishops Frome, Herefordshire, WR6 5BT To be found just off the A4103 midway between the cities of Hereford & Worcester

Tel: 01885 490462

Email: style@wyestyles.com t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 23 n

1. Powder Forest Hare Print Scarf in Mustard Yellow | £22.00 | www.cuckooland.com 2. Deep Red Floral Asymmetric Hem Dress | www.sosandar.com 3. Botanical Floral Tea Dress | £69.00 | www.sosandar.com 4. Floral Clutch Bag | Faith | £20.00 5. Black Floral Print Backless Loafers | £16.99 | TK Maxx

Health & Beauty

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1

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n 24 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

4

5

Hat Trick

Hats | Shoes | Bags | Jewellery | Accessories

Spring Collections Now In Stock Tuesday to Saturday 9.30 to 4.30 N 89 | East Street | Hereford |T: 01432 279900 O

Distinctive & Different A specially selected range of jewellery, watches, accessories and unusual giftware.

Reader Discount: Use discount code WVMN at www.pepperpotjewellers.co.uk or bring this advert into store for 10% off purchases. Valid until 31st March 2018

Full goldsmith & silversmith services

Beautiful giftware for all occasions -

Pearl re-stringing

Wedding, Anniversary, Christening

Quality watch batteries and straps

Distinctive gentlemen’s giftware

In-store engraving

Ear piercing

Pepperpot, 17-19 High Street, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8LZ

T: 01568 368933 t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 25 n

Health & Beauty

Successful first year at

Ledbury Opticians

A year of business is being celebrated at

just £25 and designer ranges from just £99, means there is

Specsavers in Ledbury, with the store reflecting

something to suit every budget. We also have a dedicated

on a successful 12 months of welcoming local

contact lens area for those wanting to try an alternative to

people through the door.

glasses. The team is also highly trained in fitting and styling,

Located at 3 The Homend, the eight-strong team is led

using revolutionary imaging software on tablet devices

by optometrist director John Roberts who is joined by co-

called Digital Precision Eyecare. This captures a range of

directors; father and son Nialle and Darren Smith.

essential dispensing measurements that are used to make

Day to day, the store is run by Nialle’s daughter, dispensing

sure the chosen frames are the perfect fit for everyone. It

optician Rebecca Smith, making it a real family affair. As well

also selects and fits customers’ glasses based on their

as eye tests, customers are also able to take advantage of

prescription, vision and lifestyle needs.’

free hearing tests carried out at the store one day a week.

‘It’s been a really successful first year and we’ve enjoyed getting to know the local community,’ says John. ‘We pride ourselves on our first-class customer service and ensuring we deliver the very best experience to everyone that comes to see us. To help us do this, we have the very latest high-tech equipment available, including digital retinal photography. This takes a photo of the back of the eye to help pick up a range of conditions including glaucoma, age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

‘Our extensive range of frames, with specs starting from n 26 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

The store is open 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am to 5pm on Saturdays. Free hearing tests are available on Thursdays.

For more information or to make an appointment, pop into the store at 3 The Homend, Ledbury, HR8 1BN, call 01531 633384 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/ledbury n Issued by Target Public Relations on behalf of Specsavers.

For further information, please contact Bethan Simkins on 01242 633100 or email: specsavers@targetgroup.co.uk

Valid for one test booked on or before 25th April at a discounted price of only ÂŁ10. Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, used with other vouchers or redeemed by customers already entitled to a free NHS eye test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only. CODE 2646

Hereford 12 Maylord Street Tel 01432 353 464

Ledbury 3 The Homend Tel 01531 633384

Leominster 25 West Street Tel 01568 619340

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Health & Beauty

Mother's Day

Around the World

A beautiful bouquet will always delight however, there are many other ways to show your Mother just how much you care. In the UK Mother’s Day always falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent and three weeks before Easter Sunday. More than 40 countries around the globe celebrate this special event, so it comes as little surprise that each and every nation has its own traditions – if you’re struggling for inspiration, you’re certain to find it here!

Yugoslavia Possibly one of the most unusual ways to celebrate Mothering Sunday – in Yugoslavia children creep into their parent’s bedroom first thing in the morning, and tie her up!

In order to be released, it’s compulsorily for the Mother of the family to present her children with gifts as soon as she wakes up. This harmless fun, which is celebrated in December, guarantees to put a smile on every one’s faces!

Taiwan Mother’s Day is of huge importance in Taiwan as it falls on the same date as the Buddha’s birthday – the second Sunday in May. It is said to be a unified celebration and religious observance. Mother’s Day is therefore seen as an extremely holy celebration as it coincides with the ‘washing of the Buddha’ – meaning there are an abundance of carnivals, fetes and parties to attend, all of which are lavish and widespread.

Japan In Japan, Mother’s Day is called ‘haha no hi’ and takes place on the second Sunday in May. Children sketch illustrations and name them ‘my mother’. Other traditions include sons and daughters preparing dishes that their mothers have taught them to cook. The Japanese also give their mothers a number of presents; the most common gifts being red carnations; scarves, handkerchiefs and handbags.

India Rather than March, Mother’s Day in India is celebrated during the second week of May. Here, the day is spent thanking mum for everything she has done over the year; be it cook you dinner, wash your clothes or help you with your homework. Gifts include picture-perfect flowers, handmade cards and a prepared meal. If you live away from home, a phone call wishing mum a happy day is a must!

Sweden The Swedish rejoice Mother’s Day on the last Sunday of May. Many children sell small plastic flowers as gifts and give the money to charity to mark this special occasion.

Other traditions include breakfast in bed, a dinner at her favourite restaurant and beautiful bouquets of flowers. n 28 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

Mexico ‘Dia de las Madres’ is celebrated in Mexico on the second Sunday of May. This colourful celebration is one of the most popular traditions hosted by the country and is enjoyed both at work and at school. It’s tradition for children to visit their mothers on the eve of Mother’s Day and gift her with handmade presents, cards and flowers.

Pakistan Mother’s Day in Pakistan is a huge celebration and one that is taken extremely seriously! There are even TV shows dedicated to this date, with many celebrations taking place across the country. For any one who has sadly lost their Mother, this day is used to pray for their loved ones. n

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The Chase Hotel, Ross on Wye, HR9 5LH Telephone: 01989 763161 Email: sales@chasehotel.co.uk www.chasehotel.co.uk

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 29 n

Food & Drink

Coconut & Tomato Lentil Curry

Ingredients

• 300g dry red lentils • 2 tablespoons coconut oil • 1 large white onion, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, crushed or grated • 30g fresh ginger, grated • 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato puree • 2 tablespoons curry powder • 450-550ml vegetable stock • 400ml full fat coconut milk • 400ml chopped tomatoes • 1 mild green fresh chilli, finely sliced • 250-300g bag baby spinach • Green chillies or pickled chillies, natural yoghurt, sunflower seeds, sliced spring onion, fresh coriander leaves and fresh lemon wedges to serve

Method Heat coconut oil in a large pan or casserole pan over a medium heat.

Cook onions for 4-5 minutes until they have softened, be careful not to burn.

Stir in the ginger, garlic and chilli and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Add tomato puree, curry powder, season to taste and cook for approximately 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the coconut milk, vegetable stock, tomatoes and lentils. Sir everything together and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer until the lentils are tender (approx.

30 minutes). Add more vegetable stock or water throughout cooking to change consistency as desired.

n 30 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

In a separate pan, add a tablespoon of water over a medium to high heat and stir in the spinach a handful at a time, stirring for a few minutes until wilted.

Serve the lentil curry in bowls and top with spinach, chillies, a sprinkle of sunflower seeds, sliced spring onion, fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of fresh lemon. n I love to try and find new things to cook at home each week, however sometimes it can be tricky to think of something quick, simple and tasty that we haven’t already done before.

Looking at recipe books, social media and what other food bloggers are cooking, I find is a good way to get inspiration.

I saw a photo recently on Instagram by Lucienne Simpson who posted a picture of a Tomato and Coconut Dahl that she had batch made on a Sunday. I used some basic ingredients to try and recreate the idea of the dish and attempted to garnish the lentil curry in a similar way. Although Lucienne’s definitely looks much prettier than mine did, it still tasted pretty good! We made this again a second time and stirred in some raw king prawns for the last 5 minutes of cooking for some added meatyness. www.pershorepatty.com

Mortimers Cross Inn

Good Quality Restaurant Food with Affordable Prices.

Open for lunch Tuesday - Sunday and dinner Tuesday - Saturday.

Our very popular carvery is available Sunday Lunches!

Able to cater for large groups • 70 seat restaurant Our country pub is located between Kingsland and Wigmore Tel: 01568709212 Email: mortimerscrossinn@outlook.com Mortimers Cross Inn, Mortimers Cross, Leominster Herefordshire HR6 9PD www.mortimerscrosspub.co.uk t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 31 n

Food & Drink

What's In Season?

Orange, sweet and versatile, carrots are the root vegetable we just can’t live without. You may have often heard the old wives’ tale that eating plenty of them will help you see in the dark – this isn’t entirely untrue, carrots are high in betacarotene, a nutrient that helps maintain healthy eyes. Originally, true heritage carrots were actually a variety of colours such as purple, white and red, whilst the orange variety originate

n 32 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

from Holland. It wasn’t until the 16th century when the orange variety was introduced to English soils in tribute to the current monarch of the time, William of Orange. High in fibre, vitamin K, potassium and antioxidants these crunchy vegetables are the perfect health food to give you that spring feeling! n

Wye Valley Now AND THE MARCHES

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

Suzie Scott

Mel Penkoks

Tel: 01905 727904 Email: suzie@pw-media.co.uk

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

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 33 n

Food & Drink

My Favourite Things Frome Valley Vineyard is to be found at Paunton Court and is set on a gentle south-facing slope. To quote the owner Jeanie Falconer “Our four-acre vineyard is located among Herefordshire’s hopyards and cider orchards. You are warmly welcome to tour the vineyard, see the different trellising systems we have, and taste our delicious wines in the winery.”

Still white and rosé wines are produced, from dry to medium-sweet. The vines are mulched with wood chips to

THE TRUMPET INN

Now Taking Bookings For Mothers Day Mum’s Get a Free Prosecco with Their Meal!

Campsite Open All Year Round For Motor Homes & Caravans For Long Weekend Breaks The Restaurant Offers A Seasonal Menu

Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2RA 01531 670277

www.trumpetinnledbury.co.uk

n 34 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

avoid spraying weed killer plus they are trialling different soil management methods to avoid using fungicide sprays.

If I have to pick just one bottle to buy it would be the Paunton Sparkling. This award winning sparkling wine made from a blend of home grown Pinot Noir and Seyval varieties, this traditional method sparkling makes an ideal aperitif and has racy acidity. The connoisseurs can tastle fresh plums, sence the peach aroma with a rich creamy taste with hints of smokiness. Me, I just love it and a glassful is a happy moment. n

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SENIOR LIVING

Have you got

the time please?

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Whatever your talents, you can use them to improve the lives of older people in Herefordshire.

n 36 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

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SENIOR LIVING

These days we are all living longer and healthier lives. Gone are the days when people thought of retirement as a time when they would sit back, put their feet up and take it easy. Nowadays, many retired people find that they are even more active than when they were working. However, many people feel a sense of loss when they retire, after decades of having to get up each day to go to work, with the routine, value and sense of purpose that work provides.

Volunteering once you have retired can be a hugely valuable and rewarding experience and many people find that volunteering actually helps make the transition into retirement easier.

Volunteering can help you maintain a positive outlook on life, retain a sense of purpose each day and knowing that you are providing a valuable service will transcend into other areas of your life.

The more you give, the happier you will feel.

Supporting others and your community provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a

n 38 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity.

Whether you can offer an hour or more Age UK Hereford & Localities will have a role to suit you.

Take a look at some of our opportunities below: • Helping with reception, a wide range of admin procedures and data inputting • Joining our Reaching You Help at Home team who provide practical support to older people such as carrying out small DIY jobs in the home, gardening, shopping, respite sitting and providing transport/escort • Supporting our Reaching You Home Visiting team, providing companionship for people who may be feeling lonely or isolated, or have little opportunity to socialise • Volunteering for our Footcare Service, which provides a much needed toenail cutting service, Continued over the page

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Senior living

helping people to remain safe and steady on their feet • Information & Advice, helping people to maximise their income, maintain their independence and continue to live in the homes they love and which hold so many cherished memories • Providing IT/computer support by helping people to use the internet safely, set up an email account, shop on line and use social networking sites to keep in touch • Helping with coffee mornings and lunch clubs which provide the opportunity for people to get together and remain part of the community If you have another skill or interest you think could be useful to us, please do get in touch. We are open to new possibilities and opportunities if you feel you can help us to achieve our aim of providing support and companionship for local older people. n 40 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

We welcome new volunteers and value the skills and experience they bring, helping us to support older members of our community so that they can maintain their dignity, health and independence.

We provide full training and ongoing support and reimburse travel costs.

By volunteering with Age UK Hereford & Localities you will find enjoyment and fulfilment in helping to make a real difference. So, if you have some time to spare why not think about volunteering with us and make a difference to the lives of older people in Herefordshire. n

For further information please contact us: Telephone: 0333 0066 299 Email: contact@ageukhl.org Reg. Charity No. 1093512 Company No. 04393512

senior living

Local ladies and general nurses, Hayley Atwood and Lisa Davies are the management duo leading Ledbury Nursing Home, in the market town of Ledbury. The home which has been open for fifteen year’s is operated by leading national provider Shaw healthcare, whose head office is in Wales.

Hayley and Lisa are very proud of the “GOOD” CQC rating which the home holds. Hayley commented “Lisa and I are doing our best to keep improving the service we offer, here in the home. We both have high standards, which we are sharing with our staff group” Ledbury Nursing Home is extremely lucky to have a regular stream of local people, who support the residents by volunteering their own time in support of the local nursing home. Residents love to see the familiar faces of the volunteers as they return week after week.

On the last Friday of the month the home always holds a community coffee morning, these events are growing in popularity for the local people of Ledbury, one of the most picturesque towns in Herefordshire.

If you need care for a loved one… Look no further than Ledbury Nursing Home. n

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 41 n

education

An Oxford First!

In the 100th year since women have been able to vote in the UK, Oxford University statistics show that they have admited more women than men as undergraduates.

The university offered places to 1,275 female 18-year-old applicants and 1,165 to male applicants last year, according to data from the admissions service UCAS. The figures show 1,070 women won undergraduate places to start at Oxford in September, compared to 1,025 men. The data also shows of applicants of all ages from the UK, women received more offers to study as undergraduates than men, despite fewer applying. Although the first women’s colleges were established in the 19th century, women were unable to become full members and graduate until 1920. The data also showed a record number of students from the poorest background are entering top universities, but the wealthiest 18-year-olds are still nearly six times more likely to secure

n 42 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

a place. Applications from the most advantaged students were also at a record high last year.

Ten of Oxford’s 38 colleges have women as their principals or heads, while the university appointed its first woman as vice-chancellor, Prof Louise Richardson in 2016. Rhodes House, which runs the university’s Rhodes scholarships, has this month announced its first woman as warden. Oxford gave the figures a cautious welcome, saying it was unable to confirm the historical significance of Ucas’s data.

“While it’s too early to call this a trend based on one year’s numbers, it is a welcome sign of progress for female applicants to Oxford,” a spokesperson said.

The UCAS figures only included UK-based applicants, but not EU or international students. In previous years non-UK admissions to Oxford have seen a majority of men gaining places - meaning that overall it is likely to have admitted more men than women undergraduates. n

education

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 43 n

education

Primary School

Improvements in Monmouthshire Monmouthshire has an

welcomed overall

County figures

Council indicating

improvement

in

the

performance of its primary schools over the past year. The Welsh Government’s National School Categorisation System has recently produced data identifying schools most need of support and this

primary schools fell in the yellow banding, six were rated amber and one rated red.

The categorisation of Monmouthshire’s four secondary schools has remained static over the past twelve months with three rated yellow and one amber.

illustrates that nearly half of the county’s primary

Councillor

Richard

John,

cabinet

member

schools are within the green category – the group

for Children and Young People said: “The

least likely to require additional support.

categorisation of schools across Monmouthshire shows that we continue to make good progress

Thirteen of the county’s 30 primary schools have

with an increasing number of schools categorised

been rated green, an increase of four compared to

as green or yellow. Eighty three per cent of primary

the previous year, while 12 are within the second,

schools are now in these two top categories and

yellow category. Three are rated amber and two

seventy five per cent of our secondary school have

are rated red. Last year, 14 of Monmouthshire’s

been placed in the yellow banding”. n

n 44 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 45 n

EDUCATION

Pitman

Training

No matter what government is in power, no matter what political issues arise, you will always hear it’s all about ‘Education, Education, Education’.

The problem for many people is education and training finishes between the ages of 16-24 and unless you have a vocation where you have to undertake continuous professional development ‘CPD’ or a supportive employer, it is easy to become ‘stuck’ with no improvement to your skills.

Learning and training can be a ‘Lifelong’ experience that will provide many benefits both financially and personally and it’s easy to make a training plan to suit whatever spare hours or training budget you have available.

Pitman Training has 5 Top Tips for Lifelong Learning 1. Ignore the ‘naysayers’. You are not too old, yes you can teach an ‘old dog’ new tricks. Believe in yourself that you can learn new skills, you just need the right supported training environment.

2. Know why you want to learn. Is it for personal development, a promotion or to get your CPD done?

Be clear at the start and you will keep motivated to the finish.

3. Set realistic learning goals. Set goals week by week, this could be number of hours studied or completing a particular chapter. Learn in ‘bite sized pieces’ and remember the longest journey always begins with the first step. n 46 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

4. Learn with other people. Learning within a supported training environment with tutors to assist, will achieve a more enjoyable learning experience and better results.

Individuals learning on their own via a computer at home with no hands on support, are much more likely to either not complete the course or gain a lower grade even if they complete.

5. Embrace change, new skills, new challenges, and enjoy every minute.

Pitman Training is one of the oldest and arguably largest best well known independent training company in the UK. Founded by Sir Isaac Pitman in 1837, his invention of ‘Shorthand’ is still in use today.

Issac never stopped learning, founded a private school and was the first advocate of ‘continuing to develop new skills whilst working’, which is now known as CPD, Continuous Professional Development.

Do you want to make a change in your life? Do you want to achieve success? Do you want to prove to yourself you can do this? Then consider adding new skills and embracing Lifelong Learning and wait and see the results! n To find out more call Jazz today on 01905 20443 or email: Worcester @pitman-training.net.

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KEEPING KEEPING ACTIVE ACTIVE Start / Finish: The walk starts on the town side of the Avon Bridge at the Marina near the Shakespeare Theatre at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Public Transport: Nearest Railway Station at Stratford upon Avon. It is one mile each way from the station to start of walk (see map). Parking: Large ‘Riverside’ Car Park. Street parking out of town.

O/S Map: Explorer Map 205.

Riverside Walk to Luddington Written and illustrated by Glynis Dray

Distance: The main walk is 7.5 miles. ‘Out and back’ variable option or shorter walk from Town to Stannell’s Bridge and back. See Map. Time: Allow all day for the main walk as it will give you time to explore and have a picnic. Set off early in winter!

Refreshments: Stock up with food, drinks and snacks before you leave the town as no pubs or shops along the route.

Terrain: This is a rural, mainly flat, walk along unsurfaced paths. In winter and early spring or after heavy rain some sections are muddy so strong shoes or boots are recommended. The Riverside walk is only suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs along the town waterfront but plenty to explore both sides of the Avon.

History: Stannell’s Bridge across the River Avon was built on the railway line between Honeybourne on the Cotswold Line and Stratford upon Avon in the early 1900s and was closed in the late 1960s. It is currently used as a cycle track and walkway. The riverside walk goes under this bridge and you will go over the bridge on the return section of this ‘Figure of eight’ walk. Luddington is a pretty hamlet with thatched cottages, an historic Church and an interesting riverside lock area to explore with care or eat a picnic.

1. From River Avon Bridge you will see old tramway bridge going off to left and marina below. Cross curved bridge over mouth of marina and walk along waterside passing Royal Shakespeare Theatre to park beyond. Walk alongside ‘Avon’ taking path on right towards a WC. Leave park and turn left passing Holy Trinity Church, where William Shakespeare is buried.

go through gate on left down track towards Luddington Lock and

2. Turn left along Mill Lane and follow wall and brick-paved path round to site of Lucy’s Mill where lane narrows into footpath back to riverside. Pass footbridge (though you can use this to get to point 9 on walk, making it a very short circular route back to town). Walk beneath A4390.

onto bridge, left across bridge to path on left and back along path

3. Keep to riverside. It can be muddy but only briefly, with wide field margin beyond. The river has a central island at this point followed by a weir and a lock that make the River Avon navigable in se upper reaches. It soon widens out to its full width. Enjoy riverside walk as far as ‘Stannell’s Bridge’ – a cast-iron structure that once carried the railway between Honeybourne and Stratford (now a walking and cycling route known as ‘The Greenway’. You can take path on right then cross bridge and take path on left in 150 yards that leads back to Stratford along opposite side of river between points 8 and 10 (Short Circular Walk).

9. Walk beneath main road (A4290) and continue along riverside

4. Main walk goes beneath Stannell’s Bridge passing corner of Stratford Race-Course. Shortly, cross planked footbridge and proceed along riverside path which can be very muddy at times.

Follow river round large loop to footbridge as you approach houses.

5. Go through small gate. The riverside path proceeds through bottom of a number of private gardens. Please remain on path and keep dogs on leads. Beyond houses, follow riverside for a further ½ mile through a series of kissing-gates.

6. Go through kissing-gate and take path diagonally up slope to exit on lane at Luddington opposite ‘Boddington Farm’. Turn left, passing tiny ‘All Saint’s Church’, thatched cottages, timber-framed buildings and ‘Luddington Manor’. Where lane takes bend to right, n 48 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

Weir. The path goes left in front of moorings, along riverside and through small gate round back of Church to lane. Turn right along lane for just over a mile enjoying easy walk to Stannell’s Close.

7. Turn right and drop down to footbridge on outward walk. Retrace route to Stannell’s Bridge where you go beneath bridge, left up path to riverside.

8. Notice railway viaduct that you crossed earlier. Follow pretty riverside path for one mile to wide lock on River Avon.

path beside water meadows, passing the ornate iron bandstand to cross old ‘Tramway Bridge’.

10. Cross bridge back to Marina where walk ends. n

living history © Ella Mary Leather

Dilly Doves and Goblin Funerals: The Folklore of Herefordshire In 1912, copies of a book bound in crimson cloth and stamped in gold with the title The Folk-Lore of Herefordshire began to be distributed by publishers Jakeman and Carver of Church Street, Hereford. Divided into sections – including Tree and Plant Superstitions, Supernatural Phenomena, Witchcraft and even Leechcraft – the book contains a dizzying catalogue of entries: Ghosts at Yarpole, Aconbury and Bronsil; Poisoning with Stewed Toad; the Fairies at Cusop; Charms and Antidotes; a Llandovery Conjurer and his Herefordshire Clients; Various Word Charms; Selling Wives; the Corpse Candle; the Frog and Mouse...

It might be easy now to dismiss such a book, a provincial work written at the beginning of the twentieth century, as something quaint and insubstantial, as little more than a miscellany of half-heard and second-hand whimsy. But this would be to do this rich and spellbinding book – and in particular its energetic and farsighted author – a huge injustice.

The Folk-Lore of Herefordshire, collected from oral and printed sources (to give the book its full title) was written by Ella Mary Leather, born near Dilwyn in 1874 to farmer James Smith and his wife Mary Ann. At the age of nineteen Ella married Francis Holdsworth Leather, a solicitor ten years her senior. They settled in Weobley, playing central roles in the community – and with a particular concern for the poor, the sick and the elderly.

Ella’s work in Weobley, where she was well known and widely respected, entailed visits to the homes of the rural poor,

and fed an interest in collecting folklore that had begun in childhood. Growing up on a farm was perhaps one wellspring for her love of folklore, as she would have had daily contact with labourers, especially hop-pickers (often itinerant and including gypsies) who were steeped in oral traditions.

Another is the stories and superstitions told by, ‘old Martha B—, a tiny dark-haired olive-skinned woman [who] ate her dinner by a little wood fire under an apple-tree’. Whatever the source, it was during her visits in Weobley that Ella gleaned the stories, customs, superstitions and songs that she would collect together in The Folk-Lore of Herefordshire.

Ella’s folklore collecting, her desire to safeguard an oral culture of story and song that was in danger of dying out, coincided with a wider movement to rescue aspects of vernacular culture in the face of a rapidly changing society.

Her work brought her into contact with other more famous names of the period, most notably Ralph Vaughan Williams who shared her passion for preserving folk songs, and with whom she corresponded.

Ella died in 1928 at the age of just 52. Although relatively little known, Ella has grown in reputation; her contribution to the preservation of folklore – and folk-songs in particular (she rescued more than 200) – cemented by her landmark book. n A new edition of The Folklore of Herefordshire, including an illustrated biography of Ella Mary Leather, is published by Logaston Press (March 2018), £12.95, ISBN 9781910839294, www.Logastonpress.co.uk t @WyeValleyNow | G Wye Valley Now | w www.nowmagazines.co.uk 49 n

What's On

MARCH Saturday 3rd Lucton Food Festival This is the fourth year, for the Lucton Food Festival and it promises to be the biggest yet! growing Showcasing the wonderful and varied food & drink suppliers from this beautiful part of the world. The venue, Lucton School, will provide a great location for an all-weather event. It is big enough to accommodate a large number of food and drink exhibitors. Stall holders will offer scope for tastings and there will demonstrations and workshops throughout the day.

Contact: 01568 782000 info@luctionfoodfestival.com

Tuesday 6th Borderlines Film Festival - ‘Stories from the Hop Yards’ Herefordshire Life Through a Lens “Stories from the Hop Yards - Showing as part of the Borderlines Film Festival Inspired by the rediscovered Derek Evans photographic collection Stories from the Hop Yards brims with archive photos and films alongside newly recorded interviews.

A requisite of British beer, with their evocative aroma, hops have been an integral part of county life for centuries.

Listen to stories of days past and present n 50 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST EVENTS THIS MONTH

from pickers, farmers, traders and brewers.

Families would arrive for a working holiday by train, cattle lorry or charabanc.

Dinners were cooked over open fires and children picked hops into an old umbrella while their mothers worked at the cribs.

“These photographs are like a time machine allowing us to touch the past, you can smell hear and feel each scene” Exhibition visitor.

Contact: 01684 892277 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/book-online/

Thursday 8th Jim Carter & Imelda Staunton at The Castle Hotel, Castle Street, Hereford, HR1 2NW Enjoy a wonderful lunch at Castle House hotel as actors Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton tell tales from your favourite film and theatre at this charity lunch in aid of Little Princess Trust and Herefordshire Cricket Society..

Contact: 01432 356321 Tickets: £45

Tuesday 13th What Makes a Photograph Unforgettable? - The Green Dragon Hotel, Broad Street, Hereford Following on from his lecture, Preserving Your Photographic Histories, Ted St George discusses what makes a photograph unforgettable, illustrated with a series of

memorable images from the last 150 years of photography.

Contact: 01568 797703 Tickets: £9

Sunday 18th St Michael’s Hospice Big Spring Walk St Michael’s Hospice Big Spring Walk 2018 will take place on Sunday 18 March at Fownhope Recreation Ground.

Take one of the most beautiful times of the year, and the picturesque backdrop of the undulating Herefordshire countryside.

Combine the two and you have the St Michael’s Hospice Big Spring Walk.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging woodland walk or a more leisurely stroll beside the River Wye, there is a walk for you, your friends and family, and maybe even your dog.

Choose between 2K, 5K, 11K and 16K routes starting and finishing at Fownhope Recreation Ground.

All routes will be fully signposted, and our team of marshals will be positioned along the path ready to help you on your way. Dogs on leads welcome for the 5K, 11K and 16K walks only.

Contact: 01432 851000 www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/bigspring-walk/

LUDLOW R A C E C O U R S E

FIXTURES

2018 Thursday

1st March

2.05pm

Thursday

22nd March

2.30pm

Monday

9th April

2.00pm

Tuesday

24th April

2.00pm

Tuesday

8th May

1.20pm

Sunday

13th May

1.45pm

NON-RACEDAY EVENTS An ideal venue for your wedding reception, private party, exhibition or conference.

For full details with dates and costs please contact Diane on 07791 637259 or email dianethomas@ludlowracecourse.co.uk

Excellent function facilities available on non-race days, we have a room for every occasion.

Tel: 01584 856221

Email: mail@ludlowracecourse.co.uk

www.ludlowracecourse.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @LudlowRaceClub

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What's On Tuesday 20th Traditional Tea Tuesdays at Lemore Manor Looking for an excuse to spend an afternoon relaxing and making the most of ‘you’ time with girl friends? Catching up with loved ones you didn’t to manage spend time with over the festive season? Or perhaps you’re looking for a meeting space out of the office with an associate?

Unwind and indulge. An assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, plain & fruit scones with clotted cream & seasonal preserves, a carefully hand-picked array of gorgeous cakes and fancies. Served with fresh tea & coffees and of course, to complete, a glass of bubbles.

More of a savoury tooth? Why not opt for our delicious local Herefordshire cheeses served with thick crusty breads & wafers, mouth watering Monmouth Charcuterie meats, homemade sausage rolls, potted mackerel, Lyonshall quail scotch eggs, all served with a choice of Herefordshire Cider, Craft Beer or a glass of bubbles.

Contact: 01544 300281 Cost: The Lemore Classic: £17.50pp Crafternoon Tea: £21.00pp Lemore’s G & Tea: £19.50pp

Meet at the car park at 12pm for a short introduction on what to look for and a brief of the general countryside codes, where they relate to foragers.

After the talk the group will set off for a 2-3 hour walk identifying the different edible and poisonous Spring shoots, plants, flowers and mushrooms that we find. There will be breaks along the way for some

Thursday 22nd Hostage - An Evening with

hogweed and wild garlic soup.

Martin Firman

To finish the day off there will be a tasty wild

Hereford Suite, Hereford Football Club, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JU In the early hours of Sunday 11 May 1980, former police Inspector Martin Firman became a hostage, held at gunpoint.

Intrigued? Would you like to know more, join The Ely Memorial Fund for dinner and listen to Martin Firman.

There will also be a small quiz about what you have heard with prizes and a raffle will also be held in aid of the ELY Memorial Fund.

Contact: 01432 268257 Tickets: info@herefordfc.co.uk

Sunday 25th Wild Food UK, Spring Foraging Courses at Weir Garden Spring Foraging Courses at The Weir Garden will be a delight in this beautiful venue boasting a lovely riverside garden, mature trees and even some ancient Roman ruins. n 52 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

homemade refreshments such as our lovely

food lunch based on what has been found.

This will include some treats made from recent finds, a wild salad picked on the day and possibly even some wild garlic pesto.

Contact: 01981 590604 admin@wildfooduk.com

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Our Events Diary

Competition

LUDLOW POINT TO POINT

For nearly half a century, local people of the Marches and the Three Counties have flocked in their thousands to enjoy the thrills and spills of the Ludlow Point to Point. This is amateur steeplechase racing across the ancient meadows of Bitterley, under the slopes of Clee Hill.

With its natural grandstand offering fabulous panoramic views of the two and half mile course, the Bitterley course offers some of finest quality point-topoint racing in the country. From farmer owners to famous local trainers, all come together for the chance of a winner in this annual highlight of the Shropshire sporting calendar. Point-to-Point racing is a form of amateur racing over fences held at a variety of Point-to-Point racecourses throughout the UK. It’s a great day out in the countryside where people come together to enjoy the sport and to socialise. Point to Point races were originally known as steeplechases where riders raced from the starting point of one church steeple to

the steeple of the next. Today, now known as ‘point to point racing’ this is now usually reserved for races that are run across country and steeplechase usually refers to races run on a track.

The annual Ludlow Point to Point includes seven exciting point-topoint races including county’s first flat race and the first mixed open race! In addition, there are bookmakers, numerous trade stands for great shopping opportunities, a fantastic licensed bar, local food stalls and children’s amusements including bouncy castles! Bring your friends, family and a picnic to enjoy from the back of your car or enjoy delicious local food stalls and enjoy the thrills and excitement of amateur steeplechase racing. n Admission: Gates open 11:00am. £10 per person and free for under 16’s.

Car parking is free. First race starts at 1:30pm. Getting there: signposted off A49 / Bitterley SY8 3HF off the A4117 Ludlow – Clee Hill road

www.ludlowhunt.com/Point2Point

For your chance to win a fantastic day out at this year’s Ludlow Point to Point including: An exclusive Premium car parking pass, tasty pre-race breakfast for 2 at the Ludlow Food Centre and fantastic Picnic hamper courtesy of the Ludlow Food Centre, answer the following question.

Where is the Ludlow Point to Point held?

Send your answers in a sealed, stamped, addressed envelope to: Ludlow Point-to-Point WVN, PW Media & Publishing Ltd, 2nd Floor, Richardson House, New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DP. Closing date for entries is 16th March 2018. n 54 | Wye Valley and the Marches Now | Issue 76 | March 2018

Answer: Name: Address: Tel: Email:

If you do not wish to receive information on forthcoming events, news and offers from Ludlow Point to Point please tick this box

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