Shropshire Review October 2016

THE COUNTY MAGAZINE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOUR

OCTOBER 2016

Shropshire

G oo

FRE to a E e

dh om

for Bridgnorth and surrounding area Filmmaker

Fright night

Cover up

History in the making

at Blists Hill

Practical and stylish

12

42

Times They are

a changin’

47

Seeing is believing!

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47

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2016 WWW.SHROPSHIREREVIEW.CO.UK

T

he year seems to be racing by – can you believe we are already on to our October edition?

We’ve lots of autumn goodies to keep

COMMUNITY 4

Community News

9

Bridgnorth town councillor Jean Onions

you entertained and informed as the

12

Filmmaker Jake Elcock

evenings draw in. Take a look back at

13

Pet subjects

this year’s Music and Arts Festival, meet Bridgnorth’s newest

29 Education

councillor and hear how a young filmmaker spent his summer

49 Health

recreating the Somme in Shropshire.

Our game recipes are perfect for an October evening, while

HOMEFIRST

on the fashion front we have the top choice of cover-ups to

14

Interiors – Think pink

beat the chill.

17

Restoration award – Combermere Abbey

25

Down to Earth

There’s also a look at our local schools and colleges, who have been celebrating an impressive set of exam results.

Don’t forget you can keep in touch with everything that’s going on in the Bridgnorth area through social media. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and events – so you can get a daily dose of Review this autumn.

Happy reading!

LEISURE 39

Events listings

WOMAN 47

Fashion – October cover-up

FOOD + DRINK EDITOR

14

51

Recipes – Game on!

55

Wholefood smoothies

MARKETPLACE 56

Business news

57

Buy Me Local

63 Classifieds

COMPETITIONS 64

Gift fair and craft workshop

LAST WORD 66

And finally – Alison Ashmore

The reproduction of any material in this magazine by means of electronic, photographic or print process is strictly forbidden without prior permission of the company. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the company. Advertisements contained within this magazine are subject to the normal terms and conditions of the company, copies of which are available on request. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all information published herein but the company can in no way accept liability for omissions or incorrect insertions or any consequences arising therefrom nor can the company accept liability or responsibility for any consequence arising from use of this publication. The paper used for this magazine is a recyclable and renewable product that has been produced from wood grown in sustainable forests.

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When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

4

OCTOBER 2016

COMMUNITY NEWS

THE COUNTY MAGAZINE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOUR

OCTOBER 2016

Shropshire

G oo

FRE to a E e

dh om

for Bridgnorth and surrounding area Filmmaker

Fright night

Cover up

History in the making

at Blists Hill

Practical and stylish

12

43

47

Times They are a changin’

COVER: Don’t forget to turn your clocks back 1 hour on 30 October at 2am.

MANAGING DIRECTOR AND PUBLISHER: Martin Edwards contact: 01746 766848 medwards@reviewmedia.com EDITOR: Alison Ashmore aashmore@reviewmedia.com assistant editor: Justine Flavell jflavell@reviewmedia.com fashion and beauty: Robyn Moore rmoore@reviewmedia.com features: Eluned Watson photo journalist: Karl Aston production and design: Aileen Selkirk aselkirk@reviewmedia.com accounts and admin: Anita Desai adesai@reviewmedia.com ADVERTISING SALES: Advertisement Manager: David Lee-Birch dleebirch@reviewmedia.com Paul Kirkpatrick pkirkpatrick@reviewmedia.com Tracy Leonard tleonard@reviewmedia.com

Club is best in West Midlands A club near Bridgnorth which helps ex-offenders and at-risk members of society into sport and physical activity has been named the best of its kind in the West Midlands.

Willowdene, based at a community rehabilitation centre in Chorley, is a satellite club run by Shrewsbury Up And Comers football club, and has now been voted the best satellite club in the West Midlands, by Sport England.

At the Willowdene football sessions, young adults have been regularly playing sport for the past six months. Joe Lockley, from county sports partnership Energize which helps to deliver the programme, said: “Football has been used to help these people understand values such as respect.

“The participants have really bonded as a group and

used this football session as a platform to reignite their passion for sport and physical activity. And as a result, a lot of young men and women have now joined gyms, their local sports clubs or have been inspired to try something new.”

Steve Green from Shrewsbury Up and Comers said: “It’s great to receive the award – hopefully it can raise the profile of the added value sport can have.

This session has given adults a sense of responsibility, belonging and achievement and being part of a team has rekindled enthusiasm that may have been lost.”

Backed by National Lottery funding, there are now more than 9,000 satellite clubs across England.

By 2017, every secondary school in England will have been offered a satellite community sports club on its site.

Chamber plans shopping nights The latest retail initiative from Bridgnorth’s Chamber of Commerce is to organise a late-night shopping campaign in the run-up to Christmas.

Stephen Robbins, chairman of the town’s chamber, said many other towns in the area already operated late night opening hours in December and he believed there was a real appetite for this from shoppers.

He continued: “The Chamber of Commerce is therefore keen to promote Bridgnorth as a great place to come and buy those gifts you just can’t buy in many towns.

“We are proposing that as many shops as possible open until 8pm on four Thursdays in December, on the 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd. We know many retailers have their own late night shopping evenings in the run-up to Christmas, we hope this will strengthen the good work already being done.”

Mr Robbins added: “We are already looking to local pubs and restaurants to offer discounts on meals on the evenings in question, to further attract visitors. We will be working with other local groups to maximise the shopping experience and really make these evenings something special.

“In addition, we will have the ‘Eat, Drink & Shop’ local campaign running again, where we will display banners around the local area, supplemented with shop window posters. We plan to implement this from November onwards.”

More information can be found at www.bridgnorthcofc.co.uk The town’s Christmas lights switch-on, organised by the town council, will take place on 18 November.

Published by

Reviewmedia Ltd. Media House Building 9 Stanmore Industrial Estate Bridgnorth Shropshire WV15 5HP

Member of Professional Publishers Association

� A dance academy that only started 11 months ago has held its first show and the reaction from the audience said it was a huge success. The Sophie Elizabeth Dance Academy now has 60 members aged between three and a half and 17, running seven classes in Bridgnorth, Telford and Wombourne. The show was put on at The Birchmeadow Centre in Broseley and featured 36 of the young dancers performing contemporary and hip-hop dances. For further information visit www.sedanceacademy.co.uk

� William Hearne drew a lot of

interest in his 1923 Diatto, which he uses on a daily basis

Cars star on debut Britain may be about to leave the EU, but our love of all things European was evident when an Italian Motor Festival made its first appearance in Bridgnorth alongside the now established Continental Market.

Hundreds of people were drawn to the High Street, which was lined with Italian cars, motorcycles and scooters from such famous marques as Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Laverda, Ducati and Vespa.

The event was organised by Dave Morris, from Shrewsbury, who has organised a similar event in Bristol for the past couple of years.

He said: “I had been looking for somewhere in this area to run an event and Bridgnorth ticked all the boxes and the town council was very helpful.

“It is obvious from the reaction of the public that it has proved popular and we certainly hope to be back next year with an even bigger show.”

5

OCTOBER 2016

COMMUNITY NEWS

‘Outstanding’ verdict on free school

n Barrow 1618 celebrates an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report

Barrow 1618 CE Primary Free School began the new school year with the publication of its latest Ofsted Inspection Report, which judges the school to be ‘Outstanding’ in all five key areas of the inspection framework.

Since opening in 2012, the school site has developed to incorporate a multiuse sports hall, catering kitchen, sports pitch, nature trail, animal smallholding and reflection garden. The 84-pupil school is full, having sparked interest amongst the local community for its unique curriculum, which favours hands-on learning beyond the classroom, in engagement with the natural environment.

Head teacher John Newton said: “As a community we have worked hard, taken risks and sought to make a positive difference in our local community and further afield. Our school truly is a community in action.”

Time for men to get life-saving tests One of the country’s largest annual tests for prostate cancer is being held in Bridgnorth again this October. Organised by Bridgnorth Lions, the PSA (Prostate Specific Antigens) test will be available on 25 October in the Castle Hall and all men over 50 are invited to attend.

Lions chairman Peter Parker said that the town branch was the first Lions club in the country to organise such a test. He said: “We ran our first test in 2009 and have seen many other Lions clubs across the country follow our lead.

“Typically we have 700 men attend our test and in the past the queue has stretched from the Castle Hall right along to the Post Office. This year we are trying to cut the queueing time by having time slots dependent upon the letter of your surname. But if you can’t make that slot don’t worry, you can come at any time during the evening and still be tested.

“The PSA test is the only specific test available that detects prostate cancer in time for it to be treated effectively. Sadly, if you wait until you have the physical signs of it, it may be too late to get effective treatment.

“The tests are overseen by consultant urologist David Baxter Smith. The tests have undoubtedly saved lives and we now have 150 men in Bridgnorth undergoing treatment to tackle prostate cancer.”

The testing procedure involves a small blood sample being taken, which is then sent away to a laboratory in Manchester for analysis.

Mr Parker continued: “Each test costs £15, but we don’t ask anybody to pay, just request that those who can afford to pay a donation. The shortfall is picked up by the Lions and key sponsors such as Star Aluminium.

“Prostate cancer is the biggest killer of men over 50 in the country, claiming 200 lives per week.

I would encourage all men over that age to get tested at our annual event, which has now also become something of a social occasion. There is a bar available at the Castle Hall and the PSA test is not affected by alcohol.”

The tests will be held between 6.30pm and 10.pm. Suggested times based on the letter your surname starts with are as follows: A - F 6-7pm G - L 7-8pm M - R 8-9pm S - Z 9-10pm www.bridgnorthlions.org.uk

n Members of Neenton Community Society with John Longden

PLAYTIME AT PUB A community owned and run pub, The Pheasant at Neenton near Bridgnorth, has opened a children’s community play area with support from rural pub champions, Pub is The Hub. Residents of Neenton purchased their derelict village pub in December 2013 and since then have gone on to create a thriving and successful community asset. They have just been named Sawday’s Community Pub of the Year 2016.

With advice and a grant from Pub is The Hub’s community services fund of £4,000 and donations from locals and free labour, Neenton Community Society has now created a safe, fun area for families.

Not all of the grant was spent on the play area and there are plans in place to set up a parcel drop off and collection facility at the pub, and internet help point.

n From left, Andy Sullivan, George Nash and Terry Rawdings

Rio winner brings golden touch to golf A charity golf day at Astbury Hall was given a boost when one of those taking part turned out to be an Olympic gold medallist.

George Nash, who won a gold with the men’s coxless four in Rio this summer, was attending the event along with 71 others to raise money for Parkinsons UK. He said: “It is a good change of pace for me as it has been a bit crazy since we got back from Rio. Before the Olympics we were in hotels and living a nomadic existence, and now I am back home I have been out with friends most nights.

“It is great to raise money for charity and I am here playing alongside my mom, who has recently taken up golf.”

George wasn’t the only celebrity taking part in the event, as professional golfer Andy Sullivan, who could make the Ryder Cup team this year, was also there.

Andy said: “I heard about the event from a friend of mine and asked if I could play. I still enjoy playing golf for fun and it is great to be part of this today.”

Ashbury Hall is owned by Judas Priest drummer K.K. Downing and the event was organised by Golf To A Tee, run by Terry and Stephanie Rawdings. Terry said that he chose Parkinson’s UK as his nominated charity because his mother lives with the condition.

He said: “We raised over £1000 last year and I am sure we will smash that amount this year.”

6

OCTOBER 2016

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OCTOBER 2016

COMMUNITY NEWS

‘Yes’ to SVR

n Sing-Along-Grease on the Quayside; Dan Sutton on the accoustic stage

Festival is ‘best yet’

This year’s Bridgnorth Music and Arts Festival has been hailed a major success by organisers, after thousands of visitors poured into the town to see the events.

Almost every pub, bar and other local venue hosted an event during the 10-day festival. There was an excellent turn-out for the Edgar Davies Ground Rock Festival on Saturday despite the rain and the Quayside riverside cinema on Bank Holiday Monday attracted a full house.

“The town was really buzzing and the venues were packed,” said festival co-organiser Westley Bone. “This was our 11th annual festival and it was undoubtedly the best, there was a tremendous atmosphere, with everyone having a great time and the weekend camping was sold out.

“The weather wasn’t great on Saturday, but the after dark show on the Edgar Davis Ground proved extremely popular.

“We would like to thank everyone who supported us, especially our sponsors and all the pubs, bars and other venues who so kindly hosted performances.”

Funds raised from donations will go to Cuan Wildlife Rescue and Pancreatic Cancer UK, and will also pay for festival events.

One of the biggest redevelopment projects in the history of the Severn Valley Railway is well and truly on track after planning permission was granted by Shropshire County Council.

The ambitious three-phase project will dramatically improve facilities at Bridgnorth station, creating a fitting gateway to the Severn Valley Railway and the town of Bridgnorth.

The entire project will cost around £5m and news of the planning approval has triggered the launch of an extensive fundraising campaign for phases one and two. This winter will see the launch of a 2016 Share Offer with a sole focus on raising funds for the Bridgnorth Project.

Phase one will include the construction of a Great Western Railway c1900 style singlestorey building. This will house a traditional tea room, where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments while waiting for their train.

New toilet facilities will also be housed within this building.

Division bell

n Dave Busby playing at Bamboo

n Above, left: Annie and the Make Believe on the High Street stage; right, Butterfly Stone at Bassa Villa n Below, left: Salopia on the High Street stage; right, Michaela Wylde playing at the Quayside on Bank Holiday Monday

The existing Ludlow constituency would be divided into three new seats, if proposals from The Boundary Commission go ahead.

Six wards in the east including Bridgnorth, Broseley and Much Wenlock would form part of a new Bridgnorth, Wellington and the Wrekin constituency, while 11 wards in the west, including Highley, would combine with 15 wards in North Herefordshire to form a new constituency called Ludlow and Leominster. There would also be a renamed Shrewsbury constituency.

The changes aim to reduce the number of MPs and ensure all constituencies represent the same number of voters.

Ludlow MP Philip Dunne said while the reforms introduced greater fairness, he would be sorry to lose any part of the area and he encouraged people to look closely at the proposals and have their say in the forthcoming consultations.

Digging deep The annual Morville Heath Vintage Ploughing Match takes place this month, the 21st year it has been run.

The event takes place on 9 October at Spoonley Gate Farm, Rudge near Pattingham, by kind permission of the Farquharson family, and will raise funds for the air ambulance.

Entry fee for ploughing is £10 and ploughing will commence at 10am. For further information contact Bob Adams on 10746 765517.

8

OCTOBER 2016 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Property department expands Terry Jones Solicitors are pleased to introduce Charlotte Round to their newly expanded Bridgnorth Office. Licensed Conveyancer Charlotte specialises in all types of property transactions from sale and purchase of Freehold and Leasehold property, to transfer of equity and applications for first registration with the Land Registry.

Rachel Wood, Director, said “the expansion of the Office is due to the excellent working relationship we have with local and national estate agents.

Terry Jones Solicitors regularly appears as one of the top one hundred and fifty firms upon the nationally ranked Land Registry applications list”.

Charlotte has over seven years’ experience in residential property, having worked in Birmingham before joining Terry Jones Solicitors in August.

Lucie Couchman, Associate Solicitor and Bridgnorth Office Manager, said “I am delighted to welcome Charlotte to the Conveyancing Team in Bridgnorth. She will be a great asset to the department which has continued to flourish since the office opened in July 2014”.

Should you have any queries about the conveyancing process, please do not hesitate to contact Charlotte who will be happy to assist. Charlotte can be contacted on 01746 768 748 or by email on charlotter@terry-jones. co.uk.

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9

OCTOBER 2016

NEW COUNCILLOR

Fighting for town she loves Karl Aston talks to Bridgnorth’s newest town councillor

W

hen Jean Onions decided to stand for election to Bridgnorth Town Council, her husband Derek was instrumental in helping put together her election plan.

Derek, a combustion engineer by trade, had been a member of the Chamber of Commerce, a county councillor and a district councillor, and had encouraged his wife to stand for election.

But when in June this year he suddenly passed away, Jean had to question whether she still wanted to stand.

She said: “It was such a shock to lose my husband, it was a bolt out of the blue. He had been absolutely fine, but had a fall one Tuesday, developed sepcis, slipped into a coma on the Friday and passed away the following Tuesday.

“In many ways it was a good way to go, he didn’t suffer and kept his dignity right up until the end, but it was still a hammer blow as we would have been celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary next year.

“Derek had been so instrumental in my election campaign, so keen for me to stand, that his passing made me question whether I still wanted to stand for election.

“I decided to carry on, partly because I wanted to give something back to the town, but also because I know it is what Derek would have wanted; he was passionate about me standing and would have hated it if I just gave up.”

Jean stood for election for the Low Town area and said that when her campaign ended and it was time for people to vote, she was not at all confident of winning.

She said: “I live in High Town and it was a Low Town seat that was being contested, so my first task was to convince people that where I lived would not impact on what I could do for them.

“I was very nervous on election day and at the counting of the votes I was sure I had lost. I saw the pile of votes accumulated by my opponent and was convinced that he had more than me, so when the count revealed I had won by just five votes I simply could not believe it, it was a fantastic feeling.

“I attended my first town council meeting in July and am now also a member of the council’s planning committee.

n Jean Onions standing on Castle Walk

“Since taking up my position as a town councillor I have been very encouraged by the support I have received from the people of Bridgnorth.

“As a town councillor one of the things I am most concerned about is waste, especially financial waste and all the unnecessary spending that can be done. I think the council tax precept

Derek had been so instrumental in my election campaign that his passing made me question whether I still wanted to stand for election is very high and I want to ensure that my constituents get the best value for money from their council – and will fight to achieve that end.

“I am also keen to encourage people to do their shopping in the town, as I have always thought that you should spend your money where you earn it and as a result have always shopped extensively in Bridgnorth.”

Jean was born in Wootton and lived there

until she married Derek. She worked as a civilian instructor in the Air Training Corp and received a commendation for her work with young people.

Jean’s parents ran a florists shop on the High Street in Bridgnorth from 1961, a shop that Jean and Derek subsequently ran themselves for 40 years before deciding to retire three years ago.

She admits that she is hopeless at doing nothing, and as well as her work for the council, is a volunteer gardener at Dudmaston Hall.

She attributes her green fingers to her parents’ influence, as they also ran a nursery in Wootton.

She has two daughters, Sophie and Verity, three grandchildren, all girls, and also has a pet cat. She also admits to enjoying window shopping for jewellery.

Jean said: “People who know me have said that I can be forthright with my opinions and I intend to remain that way in my council work.

“I have also been described as being a bit hot-headed and it is certainly true that I don’t hold back on giving my views.

“I like to think I am nobody’s fool and will always question things I don’t agree with, but I believe my constituents would expect no less of me.

“My husband and I had a favourite saying, whenever we did things that went wrong we would say ‘That’s another fine mess you got me into Ollie’, which is a well-known saying from Laurel and Hardy. I can imagine that when I am facing difficulties on the council I may well look up and whisper that to Derek.”

10

OCTOBER 2016

HEALTH ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The power to change lives Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital bariatric consultants John Loy, Manel Riera and James Rink are changing the lives of patients with the latest in weight loss surgery and aftercare

W

eighing 32 stones, staff nurse and former sportsman Peter Warren struggled with sleep apnoea, lack of confidence and depression after he piled on the pounds following a knee injury in his early 20s.

The 35-year-old nurse, from near Shrewsbury, had a 66-inch waistline and was wearing 8XL clothes when he was referred to consultant bariatric surgeon Mr John Loy for a gastric bypass.

After just nine months, it is no exaggeration to say that his body and his life were totally transformed. Now a healthy 12 stone, Peter’s confidence has returned, he has started playing cricket and has climbed Snowdon, a challenge which was previously unimaginable.

For consultant Mr Loy, this is just one of many success stories for patients who are living proof that bariatric surgery has the power to change lives.

He has seen patients return to work, come off medication for diabetes, overcome depression and return to a normal, healthy life.

No wonder he loves his job working in the NHS and at Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital.

“It is such a rewarding branch of medicine with life-changing results,” he says. “Peter is one of many patients who has been able to get back to living life to the full after surgery. He has gone from being hardly able to breath to losing 20 stones. He plays cricket, has climbed the highest mountain in Wales and no longer suffers depression,” says Mr Loy. John Loy is one of three consultants who specialise in bariatric surgery at Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital, and between them they offer a wealth of experience in a branch of surgery that is seeing a huge rise in demand.

Experts Mr Riera, Mr Rink and Mr Loy will be offering advice at Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital’s event ‘Let’s Talk About Weight Loss Surgery’ this month.

On 13 October, the county’s leading bariatric consultants will be joined by dietitians and specialist nurses at an open event at the hospital on Longden Road, Shrewsbury. They hope to dispel some myths and offer straightforward advice about the benefits of bariatric surgery.

There are several types of weight-loss surgery options available, including gastric band, gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. All work by restricting the

� Right, consultant bariatric

surgeon John Loy and above, in surgery

stomach’s capacity for food. The work is usually carried out as keyhole surgery and patients can be out of hospital in less than a day.

Irish-born consultant Mr Loy has been living and working in Shropshire since 2014 and is proud of the work that he and his department have achieved.

“Weight loss surgery has such a profound effect on people’s health. Obesity contributes to so many medical conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis, reflux, kidney problems and cancer.

“It frustrates me when you hear reports that it is an easy option or that it’s for people who are too lazy to lose weight. Some patients have lost a lot of weight in the past but put it back on. There is much ongoing research that shows that fat cells have memory and that diets are simply a temporary fix; once people go back to eating as they once did, the weight will go back on. Change has to be forever.

“We’re not talking about surgery to simply make people thinner. We want to make our patients healthier and have a better quality of life. Surgery is suitable for people with a BMI of 35 or above. It is about curbing diabetes, controlling joint pain, and allowing them to work and live a healthier life.

“Each patient is different and should be treated as such to find the ideal procedure for them. For us it is really important to understand the psychology behind their weight problems, offer a sympathetic ear, high quality surgery and follow-up care. We want the very best for our patients to help them get on with their lives.”

Let’s Talk About Weight Loss Surgery is a free and open event at Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital, Longden Road, Shrewsbury. To book, telephone 0333 305 3665.

11

OCTOBER 2016

Come to a FREE open event.

Let’s talk Bariatric Surgery.

For those attending on the evening, they will be able to book a consultation with one of the consultants - there will be a discount on consultations booked on the evening.

WHEN 13th October 2016

This open event will be an educational event on the various types of weight loss surgery that Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital can offer. The event will be hosted by our three Bariatric Consultants Mr John Loy, Mr Manuel Riera and Mr James Rink.

TIME 6.30pm WHERE Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital, Longden Road, Shrewsbury, SY3 9DP Places are limited so please call 01743 282628 to reserve your place.

12

OCTOBER 2016

FILMMAKER

History in the making

H

e may only be 19 years old but Bridgnorth actor and director Jake Elcock has already had more than a decade’s worth of experience in front of and behind the camera.

Acting and directing are his ambition and his love, so the University of Westminster film student has spent much of his summer break back home in Shropshire working on a 15-minute film which he hopes will gleen the backing he needs to make a full-length version.

The short showcase film, shot at the recreated World War One trenches at Park Hall Farm Experience, near Oswestry, and also at Hampton Court in Herefordshire, tells the heart-wrenching story of fictional soldier Captain Hemingway, a man who leads his men over the top to certain death in the final few days of The Great War. Jake has been preparing for this historic drama, entitled The Long Way Home, for several years, researching and collecting props from the period. He has enlisted friends and family as well as professional re-enactors from Rich In History – the group who appeared in the Sainsbury’s Christmas Truce advert last year.

Through his passion and perseverance Jake has persuaded everyone to donate their time and premises for free.

n Above, Jake on set in

Oswestry and left, at a script reading; below, actors in the trenches

Shropshire has a rich war history which I wanted to represent Jake’s parents, Marguerite and Julian Elcock, are directors of Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) in Bridgnorth and Wolverhampton, and many of the PQA ‘family’ were pleased to lend their support. The film’s lead actor is teacher Ben Seager who runs the comedy and acting classes at Bridgnorth PQA. Jake says: “The film is set in the trenches of the Somme towards the end of that horrific battle. The soldiers of the fictional Shropshire Regiment have spent months in the same set of trenches unable to make progress but are required to hold their position.

“The film follows Captain Hemingway who leaves his comfortable home in Shropshire to join his regiment in the trench shortly before the end of the war.”

Jake says that the film is fictional, although the plot is inspired by his research and historical facts. He took advice from Graham Jones, author of the book The Apley Legion, which is about the workers from the Apley Estate who went off to fight in the war.

“I’m not calling it a war film as it’s a human story about one man,” says Jake.

“It’s vital that the horror and bravery of WWI is kept alive and never forgotten.Shropshire has a rich war history which I wanted to represent. It was probably the worst conflict in history. If we can give it a voice even if it’s in some small way, then that’s important. There’s no propaganda, just the telling of a human story.

“We didn’t want to misrepresent anyone so used the many stories to create an imagined one.”

With the aid of crowd-funding and other backing, Jake hopes The Long Way Home will lead to him producing a full length film to coincide with the centenary of the end of WWI in 2018. He would like to release a feature film on 11 November 2018.

Jake began his career in front of the camera as a child actor, working on a touring production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast where he played Chip the teacup. He has also performed in Fiddler on the Roof, Joseph and Dr Doolittle.

A Saturday job working at PQA led to his interest in film and film making.

His first project The Watcher received a premier at the Bridgnorth Majestic Cinema before an audience of more than 200.

“He started off as a precocious young actor and then got bossy and decided to direct,” his mum Marguerite laughs. “But despite our full support, he has got everything together on his own through sheer hard work and determination. We are very proud of what he has achieved.”

Talking after the filming Jake said: “It was some of the most fun I’ve ever had on set with a phenomenal team. Its been a fantastic summer!”

For updates on the film’s progress and details of how you can contribute to the crowd funding appeal go to www.trenchfootfilm.wordpress.com

13

OCTOBER 2016

PET SUBJECTS

PROTECT AGAINST LUNGWORM

Tel: 01746 711561

Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth Vet: Sarah Probert

Opening hours: Mon–Fri: 8.30am–6.30pm Saturday: 9am–Midday

EXCITING NEW NURSE CLINICS LAUNCHING IN OCTOBER…

Sarah Probert Brridgnorth Veterinary Centre

L

ungworms are worms which live in the lungs and airways of the host animal. Whilst many animals can get lungworm, the worms are specific to each species, but can be carried by intermediate hosts such as slugs, snails and frogs. Foxes and other dogs will also carry the dog lungworm, and can pass it in their faeces. Poop scooping is very important to prevent intermediate hosts becoming infected.

We tend to be most concerned about angiostrongylus vasorum – the dog lungworm.

Cats can have aelurostrongylus abstrusus – a different species of worm – and the infections seem to be less severe, with coughing being the main problem.

The UK map showing cases of lungworm in dogs reveals that cases are on the increase, and getting closer to us, with approximately 180 cases within 50 miles of Bridgnorth.

Dog lungworm infections can show in many different ways, from a cough or breathing problems to less expected signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea and general lethargy. Lungworm

Cases are on the increase, and getting closer to us, with approximately 180 cases within 50 miles of Bridgnorth also interferes with blood clotting, and so animals with angiostrongylus infections may suffer excessive bleeding, nose bleeds, anaemia etc.

As these signs are very non-specific, lungworm can go undetected, and so often untreated. Treatment is available if your pet contracts lungworm, but prevention is more advisable. We all regularly worm our pet, but unless we are using specific veterinary products, every four weeks, we are not protecting our pets from this parasite. Standard Wormers from pet shops and supermarkets may not cover lungworm, therefore we advise you checking with the retailer who you buy from if it is not from a vet.

We do have blood and faeces tests which can detect the presence of lungworm, and we would advise testing prior to surgery if you are not worming every four weeks with a preventative veterinary product. The products available are either an oral tablet, or a spot-on liquid. The reason why we suggest testing prior to surgery is to reduce the risk of unexpected bleeding as a result of poor blood clotting.

Should you require any further information please contact your vet. The map showing local cases can be found at www. lungworm.co.uk

All surgeries by appointment 24 hour emergency service

Visit our website for details www.bridgnorthvets.co.uk

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14

OCTOBER 2016

INTERIORS

FACING PAGE CLOCKWISE:: A selection of paint colours and wallpaper from the Little Greene Paint Company CENTRE: Grey is still a strong trend in interiors, and pink complements it perfectly. Asiatic Cascade rug from Alan Ward, Shrewsbury, or online at www.alanwardfurniture.co.uk

THINK PINK

T

he Little Greene Paint Company has once again joined forces with national breast cancer charity, Breast Cancer Haven, to promote and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

For the whole of October, Little Greene has pledged that 15p from every tin of paint sold via the company’s 270 UK-wide stockists, including Alan Ward in Shrewsbury, or through its website www.littlegreene.com, will be donated directly to Breast Cancer Haven.

The pledge applies to all the colours in Little Greene’s range, but of course Breast Cancer Awareness month is associated with pink.

Most commonly used to decorate a little

girl’s bedroom, it might not be a colour that springs to mind for other rooms in the house.

Yet with so many shades to choose from, you can create a grown-up scheme, too.

A shocking pink feature wall in a hall will tell visitors that you have an individual home.

Use a lighter, fresher hue to lighten up an otherwise lackluster space. Faded pinks work well with reds and florals in a bright sitting room filled with antique furniture. Even one pink accessory, such as a cushion, lampshade, artwork or rug, breaks up a monotone room.

Certain shades can even be used as a neutral, teamed with purples, greys, taupes and blacks.

So banish images of Barbie and think pink.

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: n Paisley jacquard duvet set from £35-£65 at M&Co. There’s nothing too feminine about this bedding set n A hint of pink is this embroidered Baroque cushion from Laura Ashley, £50 n Snuggle up on the sofa under an Oriental Journey beehive weave throw in dusky pink, £40 from the National Trust. Woven in North Wales from pure new wool n Be bold with Scion wallpaper. Diva is a flamboyant stylised floral that’s oversized.

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OCTOBER 2016

15 INTERIORS

SH L O AR W G RO E O M

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17

OCTOBER 2016

HOMEFIRST

Historic home restored to former glory

C

ombermere Abbey in Shropshire has been crowned the winner of the 2016 Restoration Award, presented by the Historic Houses Association (HHA) and sponsored by Sotheby’s.

The house, owned by the Callander Beckett family since 1919, had suffered severe deterioration over a number of years. The award has been given for the most recent full restoration of the north wing, but also in recognition of the 24-year project to bring the whole house back to life.

Combermere Abbey sits at the heart of 1,000 acres of farmland, woodland and park near Whitchurch, with a 150-acre lake curving around the house. Its origins date to the 1130s but in 1957 when Penelope Callander, later Lady Lindsay, inherited the house it was in such poor condition that permission was sought to demolish much of the building.

Thankfully this plan was rejected and the process of trying to save Combermere began.

Sarah Callander Beckett took over the estate in 1992 and reassessed the restoration, seeking to improve the site and its uses.

Firstly, the stable block was converted to create nine holiday cottages. Later the library, formerly the Abbot’s Hall, was brought back to its former magnificence.

The final stage of the restoration has taken place in the north wing. This wing will provide luxurious boutique bedrooms with sitting and dining rooms, as well as bridal accommodation. Ancillary buildings have also been restored, including a Grade II* game larder which is thought to date from the 19th century with a grant from the Country Houses Foundation.

Sarah Callander Beckett said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have won this very prestigious award and to have been recognised by our peers in this way. The restoration of this wonderful place has been my mission since inheriting it in 1992 and has taken my family and me on an extraordinary journey over the past 24 years.

“To finally see the Abbey without scaffolding, standing proud in the landscape as it was designed to be, makes it all very worthwhile and I hope will give encouragement to others in a similar situation fighting to save these remarkable treasures.”

n Top left, Combermere Abbey had suffered severe deterioration; remaining pictures, the Abbey following restoration

Going, going, gone...

John Ridgway of Perry and Phillips Auctioneers of Low Town, Bridgnorth, guides readers through the world of antiques

We are often approached by people keen to sell old radios, asking what they might make in the saleroom – the answer depends entirely on the age, make and condition of the set.

There is a real market for vintage radios, and not just amongst the collecting fraternity. Some are much more valuable than others. Large wooden cased radios dating from the 1940s and 1950s look great but are not as much sought after as smaller Bakelite ones.

There are certain names to look out for, such as Bush, Grundig and Marconi, and condition is all-important.

You need to establish if your radios are in working order and if any are not it may well be a good idea to get them professionally repaired – a radio that is actually

useable will sell far better at auction.

Do a little research before you get your radios valued, then you’ll know what they may be expected to fetch in the saleroom.

Check the cases for any damage and make sure they are clean – if they do need sprucing up do this very carefully.

Make sure also that your radios are vintage, there are some amazing reproduction versions out there that could fool many people!

Perry and Phillips Auctioneers hold valuation mornings, for sale items only, every Wednesday from 10am until 4.30pm.

18

OCTOBER 2016

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Slight caution from sellers but an abundance of buyers!

T

he property experts at one of Shropshire’s longest-established estate agents, say Shropshire’s housing market has continued to perform strongly in the wake of the EU referendum.

Ross D’Aniello, head of the Country Homes department at Nock Deighton, has been analysing the market over the summer months – and he has some good news.

Over to you Ross: “Post referendum, the market has thrown up a few pleasant surprises... the south east is propping up the regional market!

“Traditionally, the summer months are not the busiest months of the year in the property world, with school holidays distracting buyers and taking their focus away to other, more important matters.

“With this year’s referendum and new faces in the top tier of the government one could

Ross D’Aniello

Post referendum, the market has thrown up a few pleasant surprises... the south east is propping up the regional market

be forgiven for thinking that everything would grind to a halt.

“Not so.

“This year we have seen an increased number of enquiries, viewings, offers and sales agreed over the summer months.

“Prices have slightly dropped in the region – our own House Price Index showed a fall of 0.9 per cent last month – but offers are still coming in and deals being agreed across all of our areas.

“We are also seeing several ‘off-market’ viewings of properties who are reluctant to come to the market, but will entertain viewings.

“This is an increasing trend and one which we are happy to help with, our job is to represent the client, not just showcase a portfolio!

“For example, we have one property offered in Worcestershire which is a four-bed house, further one-bed cottage, impressive stables and barns, arena, 15 acres in a stunning position.

This is available for £1.1 million to a discrete buyer.

“Another, in north Shropshire, a large period house with 15 acres, two acres of lakes, woodland, stunning period features, barns and

Snapped up after two viewings This month’s featured property is an exquisite family home which sold in less than two weeks.

Agents at Nock Deighton, who sold the property, say they need more homes coming to the market to meet the demand from buyers.

Church View in Ditton Priors, near Bridgnorth, only needed two viewings before being snapped up for very close to the asking price of £450,000.

It is a deceptively spacious four-bedroom property with a fabulous lounge, complete with woodburner, along with impressive gardens and flexible living space throughout the house.

Andrew Ainge, of Nock Deighton’s Bridgnorth office, said: “It’s easy to see why the property was so popular, but we have buyers waiting for all kinds of properties all over Shropshire and beyond.

“There is still a distinct lack of properties on the market to satisfy demand from buyers, so If you are thinking about putting your house on the market, why not give us a call to see how we can help?”

Call the Nock Deighton sales team on 01746 767767.

stables is available for £1.6 million.

“A third near Ombersley in Worcestershire - a stunning renovated five-bed country home with five acres, arena, stables, swimming pool and outbuildings is offered discretely for £1.3 million.

“There is an element of caution from sellers but an abundance of buyers.

“We have a large number of enquiries coming up from the south east, with the last count estimating about 90 per cent of our enquiries are emanating from either London, or the south east in general.

“Food for thought.

“The level of enquiries, when considered with the lack of stock on the market, can only lead to one thing and that is stronger asking prices. Simple economics dictates that this is the case.

“In short, the property market in the region needs more houses.

“If you have any question or wish to discuss your options, then please feel free to get in touch.”

Two building plots included in the sale of superb house Tessant House, Church Aston is on the market with a guide price of £1,100,000.

This is a rare opportunity to purchase a distinctive property in a private setting including two building plots within the highly sought after area of Church Aston.

Hidden from view, Tessant House is set within mature gardens, mainly laid to lawn with deep borders including mature trees, shrubs and perennials and large paved patio/entertaining area from the conservatory and dining room.

Tessant House has been extended and refurbished by the present owners over the past 25 years resulting in a family home offering light, flexible accommodation throughout that would

ideally suit a large, active family particularly if the property needs to suit dependent relatives or regular visitors.

Four reception rooms provide ample opportunity for a downstairs bedroom and separate sitting room while the ‘stores’ also lend themselves to bedroom, living and bathroom conversions for any dependants.

The ‘stores’ could also be developed into additional reception rooms/sun rooms having views across the gardens.

The detached garage has a room above therefore could be used as a separate workspace/ studio or as an annexe conversion (subject to planning consent).

The Crest, Chorley, Bridgnorth

Plot 1 has planning permission for a timber framed four bedroom detached Eco dormer bungalow with a detached double garage. Access to the bungalow and garage would be from a separate driveway.

Plot 2 has outline planning for a two storey 4 bedroom detached property with double garage situated at the rear of the existing detached garage.

Access for this property would be from the existing driveway to Tessant House.

Contact Nock Deighton’s Newport office on 01952 570 222.

£199,950

High Croft, Church Street, Claverley

£425,000

An impressively extended and immaculate three bedroom mid terraced cottage in the heart of the village location. Energy Rating- F

A truly unique, modern four bedroom detached is set in a particularly desirable location. Energy Rating- E

18 Brook Hollow, Bridgnorth

5 Cantern, Bridgnorth

21 Kidderminster Road, Bridgnorth A charming 1930s traditional detached house located just a short distance from the historic market town of Bridgnorth. This bay fronted house has been lovingly maintained and upgraded to included a refitted kitchen, refitted shower room, new central heating boiler and a covered side passage. Brimming with character, this conveniently positioned property is on a large plot with additional vegetable garden opposite. Energy rating- E

£285,000

£465,000

Executive style five bed detached family home, occupying a substantial plot within this sought after development. Energy rating- C

£375,000

Luxury four bedroom executive style family home set within a sought after modern development. Energy Rating- D

W

hether you are a first-time landlord or have been in the lettings industry for years, choosing the right tenant is always a tricky task.

As letting agents with many years of experience, the team at Nock Deighton are often asked for their advice by landlords who are about to take on new tenants.

Dawn Clarke, director of property management and lettings, says there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing tenants – but there are some important factors to bear in mind.

“The key thing we talk to landlords about is matching the right tenant to their type of property,” she says.

“Some people automatically think that students will be messy and a professional couple the ideal tenants, but from our experience that is not always the case. There are lots of positive points from renting out a property to students they are usually good at paying rent on time for one thing, and often have parents on hand if they do get into any difficulties, for example.

“Professional couples do tend to look after a property well, but can be difficult to keep

Dawn Clarke

Matching the right tenant to their type of property

as tenants because they will often see a rental property as a short-term commitment.

“Families with young children can be viewed by some landlords as risky tenants because of the potential for mess or damage, but this is offset by a more long-term tenancy.

“And in actual fact, many of our landlords find that families view their rental property very much as their own home so will look after it as such.

“We have landlords who favour renting their properties to elderly people, who have a habit of being on time with their rental payments, but of course not all properties will be suitable.

“As you can probably tell by now - there are pros and cons to all type of tenants. The most important thing is for a landlord and letting agent to have a good relationship with their tenant.

“It’s also vital to match your property with a tenant to suit - an apartment in a city centre is far more likely to appeal to a professional couple than an elderly person living on their own, for example.

“So if you want a certain kind of tenant, make sure you invest in the right type of property.”

For more information and advice, contact Dawn and her team on 01952 290163.

3 College Lane, Wellington

Busy autumn is on the cards House prices have dipped slightly in Shropshire, but experts at Nock Deighton say they expect prices to pick up again throughout the busy autumn months.

According to Nock Deighton’s House Price Index, prices fell by 0.9 per cent over the past month, although they are still 4.7 per cent higher than at the same time last year.

Michael Nettleton, director of sales and marketing at Nock Deighton, said 2016 had been an interesting year Mike Nettleton for house prices.

“As you might expect, the EU referendum has been a big influence – certainly from the media’s point of view at least,” he said.

“And although we have seen a very slight decrease in prices over the past month, the rate of activity is still very high.

“We are confident that prices will continue to rise because there is still a shortage of stock.

“As I have said throughout most of this year – it is still a great time to put your house on the market because there are lots of buyers just waiting for the right property to come along.”

£349,950

32 Donnerville Close, Wellington

£279,950

A spacious five bedroom detached bungalow with gardens and parking.

Energy rating – D.

A well presented modern four bedroom detached family home with conservatory and garden. Energy rating – C.

16 Martingale Way, Lawley Bank

10 Jasmin Close, The Rock

8 Spring Village, Horsehay This spacious semi detached cottage briefly comprises entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, study and downstairs shower room.

Three bedrooms with fitted wardrobes to the master bedroom and a bathroom. A tarmac driveway provides parking for several vehicles and access to the detached double garage. The large gardens surround the property and comprise of large lawned areas with flower/shrub borders. There is a paved patio area running across the rear of the property. Energy rating - D.

£335,000

£232,500

A superbly presented four bedroom detached family home with views over fields to the front.

Energy rating – D.

£214,950

A spacious detached four bedroom family home in popular residential development.

Energy rating – D.

Wayside, Eaton Constantine

£595,000

Wayside is a delightful Grade II listed detached thatched cottage which has been tastefully extended and improved throughout, including a superb conservatory, yet retaining all character and charm. The property has the benefit of paddock and land up to around one acre, ample car parking space and a detached double garage. Brief accommodation comprises three reception rooms, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and utility. Within the property, a self contained annexe can be found (two storey). This is finished to the same quality as the main house and could easily be incorporated into the main house if so desired. Equally so, it can also be locked off from the main house. The landscaped gardens are a particularly impressive feature of the property, with terraces and seating areas cleverly located for both privacy and sunlight. The gardens lead to a paddock area, and also include a studio with external decked area, greenhouse and other timber outbuildings. The further you travel through the gardens towards the paddock, the more the view of the countryside imposes itself as such a unique feature of this property.

42 Reynold Wharf, Coalport

£365,000

43 Church Hill, Ironbridge

£275,000

Ox Hay Barn, Blymhill

£459,950

Ox Hay Barn is a beautifully presented home offering light and spacious accommodation throughout.

Ox Hay Barn is approached over a driveway leading to two car parking spaces to the front of the property. A driveway to the rear of the property leads to a private electric gated entrance having extensive parking. The breakfast kitchen with flagstone flooring and a feature brick inglenook housing a range cooker, has a range of solid oak units with granite worktops, integrated appliances and a breakfast bar to the centre of the kitchen. A stable door opens onto the balcony to the rear. Onto the dining hall having solid oak flooring, a guest cloakroom and stairs rising to the first floor. Leading onto the sitting room with a continuation of solid oak flooring with double doors opening onto the balcony.

The master bedroom has an en-suite shower room with underfloor heating. Bedroom 2 is a generous double room with built in wardrobes. Bedroom 3 is a double room currently used as a study. The family bathroom has a separate bath and shower cubicle. The rear garden is fully enclosed. The first floor balcony is ideal for outdoor entertaining. From the balcony, steps lead to the lawn and driveway.

Underneath the balcony is an outdoor store with light, power and water.

The Long House, High Offley

£499,950

The Old Granary, Eaton On Tern

£484,995

A beautifully presented, five bedroom, three storey town house in a popular and historic development in Coalport. EPC rating - c.

An excellent three bedroom home with flexible layout throughout and located a short walk to the amenities of Ironbridge. Energy rating – D.

A beautiful character family home in an idyllic village setting. Energy Rating – E.

A superb three storey granary converted to a high standard in approximately 1 acre with far reaching countryside views. Energy Rating – D.

96a The Knowle, Jackfield

38 The Grove, Shifnal

10 Daniels Cross, Newport

15 Ellsmere Court, Newport

£250,000

A three bedroom detached bungalow which has been subject to an incredible transformation throughout. Energy rating – D.

£220,000

Immaculately presented modern 3 bedroom, 3 storey end terrace town house in the heart of Shifnal. Energy rating – C.

£259,995

A well presented detached family home in the sought after market town of Newport.

Energy Rating – D.

£225,000

A detached family home with private garden ideally situated close to Newport High Street and local schools. Energy Rating – D.

23

OCTOBER 2016

www.stentonsestateagents.com LD SO

W NE

Well presented three bedroom home with good sized rear garden, conservatory and ample parking. Popular location close to the town centre.

W NE

W NE

Ideally located for the centre of Much Wenlock, this tastefully presented home offers ample parking, generous garden and three good sized bedrooms.

Southfield Road, Much Wenlock £208,750 St Mary’s Road, Much Wenlock £200,000

Pretty character cottage in idyllic location with separate self contained holiday annexe, double garage, parking, gardens and beautifully presented accommodation.

Bourton, Nr Much Wenlock £450,000

W NE

Recently re-furbished and presented to a very high standard, this period cottage offers two bedrooms, garden & parking.

An excellent family home with four bedrooms including en-suite to the master, large garden with wooded aspect, ample parking, double garage & sought after location.

Located in the heart of historic Much Wenlock this character property offers ample accommodation and a delightful rear garden.

Fox lane, Broseley £184,950

Lees Farm Drive, Madeley £325,000

Barrow Street, Much Wenlock £775,000

An exciting opportunity to acquire this former public house which includes spacious accommodation and ample grounds.

Beautifully presented family home with parking and a good sized rear garden. Spacious accommodation – internal viewing is essential.

Gorgeous character cottage in the heart of Much Wenlock. Includes a delightful rear garden, three bedrooms, breakfast kitchen, utility, spacious lounge.

Farley, Much Wenlock £475,000

Shrewsbury Road, Much Wenlock Offers Over £299,950 Barrow Street, Much Wenlock £385,000

74 High Street, Broseley, TF12 5EX. T: 01952 883300 58 High Street, Much Wenlock, TF13 6AE T: 01952 728200

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25

OCTOBER 2016

DOWN TO EARTH

Each month the team at Meadowdale Nurseries in Telford will be offering you lots of handy tips and advice on how to make the best of your garden

The family-run nurseries, which is now run by brothers John and Rob Anderson, has been growing plants for the last 27 years.

OCTOBER TIPS FOR THE GARDEN n Pyracantha

Berried treasure Berry-bearing trees and shrubs come into their own in autumn, creating colourful displays that can last well into winter, says the Horticultural Trades Association

From elder berries to rose hips, crab apples to firethorns, the addition of berrying plants adds a new dimension to any garden, with plants carrying fruits and berries through autumn and into winter.

Berrying plants also provide home-grown food for hungry birds and wildlife too, enhancing their appeal and value to any garden.

Evergreen shrubs provide structure and form throughout the year, but many produce early displays of flowers followed by autumn berries. One of the best compact shrubs for borders or patio pots is a Skimmia with a mouthful of a name, Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana. Don’t let this put you off as its displays of bright red berries are second to none!

Also check out the compact and spreading Viburnum davidii, a hardy shrub with distinctly veined evergreen foliage that produces the most unusual metallic-looking blue-black berries. It really is quite a talking point.

To create seasonal pots for autumn colour include a small Gaultheria mucronata carrying brilliant berries in pink, red or pure white. Combined with pansies and violas, trailing ivy, heather, carex or skimmia your pots will put on a display that lasts for months.

Trained against walls and fences, firethorn is a invaluable evergreen shrub. Its thorny stems make it a great choice for producing secure garden boundaries, but don’t let the spines put you off buying Pyracantha. They provide valuable nesting sites for birds, flowers that attract bees, and red, orange or yellow berries to feed birds into winter.

Explore the cotoneaster family too, attractive ornamental shrubs with year-round appeal. The arching stems with herringbone-patterned stalks of Cotoneaster horizontalis make it an excellent choice to carpet banks and low borders or train up to cover bare fences. Birds love these berries.

If space allows, many ornamental trees produce bright berries and fruits as well as good displays of autumn foliage colour. Two of the best families are Rowan (Sorbus) and Crab Apple (Malus), and both make ideal trees for small gardens.

With such a rich and diverse range of plants to choose from it really is possible to fill your borders with berried treasure this autumn!

Now is the time to divide perennials once they have finished flowering, replant them in the garden or into pots and store them in a greenhouse/cold house for next spring. If you find you don’t need them give them to family and friends.

Start to plant spring bulbs for colour next year. Make a statement in your borders by planting large bulbs such as daffodils, tulips and alliums in threes and the smaller bulbs such as crocus, dwarf iris and dwarf daffodils in fives.

If you like the idea of bulbs in lawns, dig small squares of turf up, plant your chosen bulbs and then replace the turf; beware though as you will have to mow around them next year until the leaves die off.

Try creating a spring planted container by planting bulbs in layers using crocus planted near the top followed by daffodils, an early flowering tulip and finish with a later flowering tulip, thus giving a succession of colour throughout spring. Ensure you use containers with good drainage so that they do not sit in soggy soil and rot during the winter months.

If you want instant colour for the autumn/winter, plant bedding pansies, violas and cyclamen; these need to be planted now so that the roots can establish before the ground gets too cold. They can also be used in hanging baskets teamed up with ivy and grasses.

Indoors, prepared hyacinths can be potted up now for winter colour and fragrance; what could be better than a natural home air freshener?

Rake off any leaves from the lawn, and do this on a regular basis. Clear any leaves from borders, you can keep a few to help protect any perennials/bulbs during the winter months, but make sure to remove any deceased leaves as leaving them will cause problems in the spring.

Don’t forget the birds, they will need food putting out now because as the colder air creeps in the bugs will be less available. Although feeding them throughout the year is advisable they will need extra fat such as fatsnax and suet treats, helping them keep their energy levels high to keep warm.

Finally put in garlic now and harvest your pumpkins. Halloween is just around the corner so keep some for carving as well as eating.

For further information please see our website www. meadowdale-nurseries.co.uk or why not visit us at our nurseries in Telford, where our staff will be happy to help you with any gardening questions you have.

26

OCTOBER 2016

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29

OCTOBER 2016

EDUCATION

SCHOOL REPORT It’s been a busy time for schools and colleges, with exam results and a new year starting. We catch up with all the education news from our county

n Straight A student Eli Richardson gets a congratulatory hug from deputy head Marie Jones; SHS pupils had plenty to smile about

Shrewsbury High School

T

he girls and staff at Shrewsbury High celebrated for two weeks running after receiving outstanding sets of examination results.

The school, renowned for its examination performance, was overjoyed with both the GCSE and A level results, with headmaster Michael Getty commenting: “We are absolutely thrilled for the girls and their exceptional results.

“With newspaper headlines suggesting GCSEs are now far more challenging, we are delighted to see our girls accessing top grades so routinely. Once again we are in the position where a significant proportion of the entire year group received a flawless spread of A*/A grades,

which is testimony to their hard work.

“The number of girls securing straight A grades at A level is also incredible.”

The high school was particularly proud of the girls’ ability to secure the high A level grades required to gain places at the most selective institutions with large numbers of girls heading to the likes of Cambridge, Durham and Bath universities.

Whilst GCSE results were excellent across the board, it was stand-out results in Arts subjects and Languages that were a particular highlight.

Mr Getty said: “The high school has always been renowned for the quality of its results in the Sciences so this year it is particularly gratifying to see how highly the girls have also performed in Arts and Language-based subjects. With 100%

A*/A in the likes of German, almost 90% A*/A in Latin and over 80% A*/A in Music and Drama it is wonderful to see the girls excelling across the full span of academic disciplines.

“Languages in particular are so frequently neglected which makes this kind of performance all the more pleasing.”

With top grades at A level being supposedly harder to achieve, the school was delighted as a string of girls gained straight A grades, and over 85% of grades achieved the top A*to C gradings.

“I am particularly delighted with the diversity of career paths that the girls are now going off to pursue, which range from engineering to accountancy, from psychology to English Literature!” said Michael Getty.

Bridgnorth Endowed School At Bridgnorth Endowed School 70% of students achieved at least five GCSEs including English and Maths at grade C or better; this measure was used by the Government until last year and is familiar to parents. It demonstrates the improvements at the Endowed since last year, when both the town’s secondary schools produced results in the low 50%s.

GCSE performance provides crucial information for parents approaching the choice of secondary school for their child, as it shows how the school has enabled students to make progress and achieve their best. The much-improved Ofsted report from four months ago is further proof of this. No other school locally can show such rapid improvement.

When you look deeper into the Endowed’s results they look even

better. The Government is focusing now on the progress of all students.

Taking English as an example, the national norm is about 70% of students making ‘expected progress’, however at BES nearly 90% of students did so, with 42% making ‘more than expected progress’.

And yet the Endowed isn’t an exams factory. Students are developed to be well-rounded citizens of the future and are given a whole host of opportunities including volunteering in a partner school in Tanzania, representing the school in a range of sports that rivals the best around, accessing fairly priced music lessons, taking part in school shows, visits to Rome and the battlefields of France and Belgium.

The school is confident it can provide answers to prospective parents’ questions that will make BES the top choice in town.

30

OCTOBER 2016

ACHIEVE YOUR AMBITIONS AT THE COLLEGE OF CHOICE

New College Telford offers one of the highest combination of course choices in the county, including – A Levels, Apprenticeships, BTECs and Higher Education.

COME TO ONE OF OUR OPEN EVENINGS Wednesday 19th October Wednesday 16th November 06.00-08.00pm www.nct.ac.uk

01952 641892

Facebook.com/NewCollegeTelford

31

OCTOBER 2016

EDUCATION

New College Telford New College Telford is celebrating another impressive set of A level results, with an overall 97% pass rate. There was a 100% pass rate in many subjects including Maths, Chemistry, Art, English, Film Studies, Media and History.

Curriculum vice principal Jean Wright said: “We are very pleased with the results, which overall are an improvement on last year. It is fantastic to see so many of our students going on to their first choice universities.”

William Beddow from Apley in Telford has secured a place at Cambridge to study Maths, after A*s in Maths and Further Maths, and an A in Physics. “I’m very pleased, but also relieved,” said William, who opted to come to New College Telford two years ago, instead of staying on at his school sixth form. “New College Telford has been excellent for me – I’ve really loved it. The teachers have been great, and if you are prepared to put the work in, you can do really well here.”

Friends Thomas Billington, Vicki Cox and Amber Mansell – former Charlton School students – all received the grades they needed to go on to Southampton University.

Thomas, from Hadley, got three As and one B to study Philosophy, Vicki, from Wellington, got two A*, one A and one B and will study Maths, and Amber, also from Wellington, will be doing Film Studies after she got two As and one B. Cerys Nash, who admitted having to overcome depression during her studies, was delighted with her two As in Maths and Further Maths, and a B in Fine Art. “It has been hard at times, but all the hard work has been worth it,” she said.

Her friend Rebecca Powell, from Shawbirch, secured her place at Leeds University with one A and two Bs, in English Language, French and Psychology. She said: “New College teachers have been our life-savers. They are so understanding and supportive.”

Another happy student was Megan McGuin from St Georges, who gained four straight A grades in Biology, Chemistry, Maths and English Literature. She now has a choice of universities, and is hoping to become a pharmacist. “I’ve really enjoyed it here. It’s a lot more adult environment than secondary school. We are given more responsibility, backed up with lots of support.”

n William Beddow, who has secured a place at Cambridge

OCTOBER OPEN EVENTS WE WILL HELP YOU MAKE YOUR CHOICE FOR 2016 Apply on-line or come and visit us on one of the following days: Shipley Campus Sat 10th October 10am-2pm Oswestry Campus Wed 21st October 5pm-8pm Walford Campus Sat 17th October 10am-2pm Aspire Centre, Thursday 22nd October 3.30pm-7pm Everyone is welcome!

01691 688080 WWW.NSC.AC.UK

Wolverhampton Girls’ High School SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING for September 2017 entry is being held on Monday 10th October 2016 6.45pm – 8.45pm

Come and Join our Success Story!

Best school in the West Midlands 8th Best School in England

We welcome students new to the school in the sixth form.

Please see the school website www.wghs.org.uk

32

OCTOBER 2016

Encouraging children to develop their talents

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Birchfield School Harriott’s Hayes Lane Wolverhampton WV7 3AF

Contact: Allison Kwiatkowski E: office@birchfieldschool.co.uk T: 01902 372534

Bridgnorth Endowed School, Northgate Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4ER Transport available from Perton, Pattingham, Penn, Wightwick and Wombourne Registered Charity No. 528420

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33

OCTOBER 2016

EDUCATION

Telford College of Arts and Technology Mature student Clair Drummond has said a big thank you to Telford College of Arts and Technology for helping her to graduate with a first class honours degree in Health and Social Care.

The 33-year-old, from Malinslee, completed a two-year Foundation Degree at TCAT, before topping it up with a further year at the University of Wolverhampton.

And she said she was grateful to TCAT for giving her a ‘great step on to the higher education ladder’, and supporting her with her dyslexia.

Clair, a former student at Much Wenlock’s William Brookes School, is now working towards a master’s degree, and can register as an approved social worker. This means she can expect to earn up to £25,000 in her first year, rising to around £40,000 if she becomes a social work manager.

It marks the start of an exciting new chapter for mother-of-three Clair, whose previous jobs range from co-ordinating training at fast food chain McDonald’s, to giving scuba diving tuition in Malta.

It was when she started looking for jobs in

the care sector that she realised she needed to develop her CV and get a professional universitylevel qualification.

She contacted TCAT after being recommended by a friend, and the college helped her to juggle her studies with the pressures of bringing up her young children – one of which was just eight weeks old when she enrolled.

Student finance allowed her to save a deposit for a house, and covered around 85% of her childcare and nursery costs.

Clair said: “It can be daunting, as you are studying in smaller environment. But these group sizes allow you to learn in a fantastic way – lessons are taught in a classroom, not a theatre!”

Her TCAT tutor Stuart Taylor said: “She came to the Foundation Degree Health and Social Care with a level three NVQ. “Under normal circumstances, I would have advised her to study on the Access to Higher Education Diploma, which would have given her the necessary academic skills to study on the course.

“However, during interview, Clair convinced me that she was a suitable candidate to start on

BEDSTONE www.bedstone.org

n Clair Drummond at TCAT the course, and from the beginning she displayed an ability to learn very quickly.

“It is excellent to see that this progression continued when she studied on the third year of an Honours Degree at the University of Wolverhampton, and obtained a first class degree.”

Clair’s story shows that you don’t need A levels to go to university – and you don’t need to spend all your time at university to get a degree!

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Bedstone College • Bucknell • Shropshire • SY7 0BG • 01547 530961 • admissions@bedstone.org • www.bedstone.org

34

OCTOBER 2016

EDUCATION

Prestfelde School, Shrewsbury

William Brookes School, Much Wenlock Students and staff at William Brookes in Much Wenlock are celebrating the school’s best GCSE results. 82% of students secured five or more A*-C grades with 73% including English and Maths. 23% of all entries were graded at A*-A with 52% at A*-B. 96% of students gained 5+A*-G including English and Maths.

Geoff Renwick, head of William Brookes School, was full of praise for students and teachers alike: “Our students and our excellent teaching team thoroughly deserve this excellent set of GCSE grades for their hard work and commitment. As the only Coubertin school in Great Britain, it is lovely that we have performed at the same high level as Team GB this summer!”

Chair of Governors Catherine Connery added: “We are extremely proud of our GCSE students’ well-deserved success and of our dedicated teachers. These superb results demonstrate a strong improvement in academic performance and place us firmly amongst the top of the county’s comprehensive schools.”

Fifteen Year 11 students gained nine or more A/A* with Connor Bennett and Charlotte Casteleyn sweeping the board with 11 GCSEs at A*; Oliver Shires got 7A*, 3A and a B; Tom Nock and Evyn Woodhouse gained 5A*, 5A and a B; Hannah Broadley and Jade Bruce obtained 5A* and 4A grades in their results.

A Shropshire school is “revolutionising” its boarding house by making it more flexible for pupils and parents.

Prestfelde School in Shrewsbury has welcomed boarders since 1929, but changing times have seen the numbers of pupils living on site dwindle in recent years. Now the school is developing a fresh approach by making the boarding house an “extension of home” to encourage more children to benefit from the boarding experience.

Mike Haswell, head of boarding at Prestfelde, said: “Times are continually changing and we at Prestfelde are always reviewing the services we offer. With this in mind we have decided to make our boarding house more flexible for parents and pupils.

“Boarding has changed somewhat from the days of parents dropping off their children with their luggage on the first day of term and picking them up three months later.

“The whole attitude towards boarding, from parents, pupils and teachers alike, is very different nowadays – you could call it a revolution – and we have embraced the modern, flexible style of boarding without losing the key benefits that staying in such an inspiring place as Prestfelde can provide.

n Mike and Jo Haswell with their sons Kieran and Connor

Moreton Hall School, Weston Rhyn Moreton Hall in Shropshire has been named by The Times as the UK’s top performing non-selective school following outstanding A level and GCSE results.

This impressive accolade follows hot on the heels of The Tatler Schools Guide, which pronounced ‘If you’re looking for girl power, you’ll find it at Moreton Hall’.

Exceptional pastoral care, detailed knowledge of individual students and unlimited extra support and help are undoubtedly key factors in explaining the school’s remarkable success in public examinations.

However, principal Jonathan Forster was quick to pay tribute to the quality of teaching and learning which has long been the hallmark of the school.

“We have exceptional teachers and outstanding students, both of whom are prepared to go the extra mile,” he said.

“Moreton is a very special place and its unique atmosphere and ethos allows us to stretch the most able and support the least confident.

“Our aim is quite simple, to enable students to reach their potential.

Whether that is achieving a place at Oxbridge, representing their country at lacrosse or utilising the skills honed in Moreton Enterprises to run their own company.

“Our academic results are stellar, but that is only one aspect of the business of education. A Moreton education is for life!”

“These days families want to spend much more time with each other at weekends and in the evenings.

“Our parents still want the excellent teaching, wideranging opportunities and nurturing environment that the school provides, but they also want the flexibility to spend quality time with their children when they want to.”

Prestfelde is now offering a range of flexible boarding options.

Weekly boarders can stay from Monday to Friday, regular boarders can opt to stay the same night or nights each week, and occasional boarders can drop in and out depending on their parents’ commitments or their own activities.

The environment is carefully managed by Mr Haswell, who lives in Prestfelde House with his wife Jo and their two boys, Kieran and Connor, creating a real family atmosphere.

Mr Haswell added: “We have made the boarding facilities an extension of our home, providing an atmosphere which stimulates independence, confidence and a sense of belonging. We are keen to promote traditional values and skills for life, so offer wraparound quality care with the flexibility to suit individual needs.”

For more information about Prestfelde telephone (01743) 245400 or email office@prestfelde.co.uk

OCTOBER 2016

35

36

OCTOBER 2016

Register online for Open Evenings Wednesday 12th & Thursday 20th October (5 - 8 pm)

w: ssfc.ac.uk

e: info@ssfc.ac.uk

t: 01743 235491

William Brookes School Much Wenlock

OPEN DAYS DISCOVER DISCOVER Wednesday, October 12, 7-9pm Friday, October 14, 9-12 noon

82% 5 A*-C grades and the UK’s only Coubertin School A great place to be - come and see why Tel: 01952 728900 Head: Mr G Renwick admin@williambrookes.com

WREKIN COLLEGE WREKIN COLLEGE

OPEN DAYS

Wrekin College Open House Wednesday 28th September 9am - noon Sixth Form Experience Evening Thursday 29th September 6pm - 8.30pm

New, purpose-built Business School opening January 2017.

Leading the way with added-value education. www.wrekincollege.com

Wrekin College, Wellington, Shropshire TF1 3BH co-educational 11 - 18 day and boarding

• Experience a full day in Sixth Form • Enjoy a wide choice of A level courses • Sample extra-curricular activities and leadership opportunities • Receive expert advice on choosing the right university and course • Learn about scholarships • Subject information evening from 6:00pm for parents

For more information and to book a place please email enquiries@oswestryschool.org.uk or telephone 01691 655711

38

OCTOBER 2016

39

OCTOBER 2016

LEISURE

Fright night

About Africa

at Blists Hill

breathtaking photography

spooks on the SVR

42

40

Ghost train

45

� 15 OCTOBER Austentatious. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please phone the contact number to check on dates and times.

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk

OTIS GIBBS

Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Regarded as gypsy jazz royalty, Paulus Schafer is known across the world as one of the most gifted guitarists of his generation. 8pm, £13/12, www. theatreonthesteps.co.uk

1 October

MY BIG FAT COWPAT WEDDING Meole Brace Peace Memorial Hall, Based on real people’s experiences of mixed marriages or rural weddings attended by city dwellers out of their comfort zone, this is a fast moving comedy drama. For ages 12+. An Arts Alive presentation. 7.30pm, £10/6, 01743 235384.

1 October

CADENCE, AND WAIFS AND STAVES All Saints Church, Broseley Cadence is a small group of mixed harmony singers while Waifs and Staves is a chamber group that plays a variety of music from classical to light and popular. 7.30pm, £7.

1 October

FUNDRAISING COFFEE MORNING Whole Life Centre, Cabin Lane, Oswestry

Bridgnorth Library Meet your local policing team between 2.30-3.30pm. Free drop-in session.

4 October

MUM’S THE WORD 2 Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford Brand new production with a starstudded cast taking the audience on the hilarious and emotional journey that is motherhood. 7.30pm, £24, www.theplacetelford.com

4 October

POETRY SESSION

ARCHAEOLOGY SEMINAR

1 October

THE PAULUS SCHAFER TRIO

PACT POLICE SURGERY

4 October

October

1 October

4 October

Bridgnorth Library Free drop-in session on the first Tuesday of every month. Take a favourite poem to read aloud or just go along to listen. 10am-11am.

Events Birchmeadow Centre, Broseley The American alt-country singersongwriter returns to Broseley with his strong and meaningful songs. Tickets £12 on the door or £10 in advance from www.birchmeadow.org.uk/live-music

was brought down by Geoffrey Howe, her one-time friend and political soul mate. Starring impressionist Steve Nallon (Spitting Image) as Mrs Thatcher.

7.30pm, Wed and Sat 2.30pm, from £18, www.theatresevern.co.uk

In aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and Lingen Davies Cancer Centre, from 10am until noon.

or at their Wellington market stall, Saturdays 9am-12 noon.

1 October

TODDLE WADDLE

THE REAL THING Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Britain’s top soul band celebrates 40 years in the business. 7.30pm, from £21, www.theatresevern.co.uk

1 October

SOUL PARTY NIGHT The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford Sensational vocals, glamour, outstanding costumes, and a wide range of great Soul and Motown classics – the recipe to get any party started. With a top soul DJ and support from local Lisa Stephens. 18+, dance-style event, 7pm, £12, www. theplacetelford.com

1 October

SHREWSBURY CANTATA CHOIR United Reform Church, English Bridge The choir hosts Voix Amis from France for a joint concert of music from the Renaissance to Romantic. 7.30pm, £7, under 18s free, on the door.

1-29 October

THE CLIFTON FILM FESTIVAL Belmont Hall, Wellington Features Eye in the Sky (1st), Eddie the Eagle (8th), Spotlight (15th), Bridge of Spies (22nd) and Florence Foster Jenkins (29th). 7.30pm, £5 on the door, from www.theclifton.org

2 October Bridgnorth Hospital A half-mile sponsored walk for little ones from the hospital to the Castle Grounds, to raise money and awareness of meningitis in memory of toddler Fleur-Rose. 11am-12 noon. Search Bridgnorth Toddle Waddle on Facebook.

2 October

CARMEN Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The Russian State Opera return with Bizet’s colourful and exciting story of high passion and tragedy. 7.30pm, from £29, www.theatresevern.co.uk

2 October

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ Black Boy Inn, Bridgnorth With trumpeter Jamie Brownfield and Paul Sawtell on piano. 12.30pm.

3-6 October

FRANKENSTEIN

Museum of The Gorge, Ironbridge Talk by Sam Paul, ‘Mapping the use and value of archaeological archives in museums’, part of a series of free archaeology-related seminars for members of the public with an interest in archaeology. 6pm, call 01952 435 946 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

4, 11, 18, 25 October

TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS Jackfield Tile Museum, near Ironbridge Join a drop-in tile decorating workshop between 10am and 3.30pm and try the tube lining technique to produce your own ceramic masterpiece. Museum admission fees apply. www.ironbridge.org.uk

4-8 October

THE SOUND OF MUSIC Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Wonderful lavish new staging tells the true story of the singing family who escape to freedom from the Nazis. With Lucy O’Byrne, runner-up on The Voice, as Maria. 7.30pm, Wed, Thurs and Sat matinees at 2.30pm, from £22.50. www.grandtheatre. co.uk

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury A new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror masterpiece fusing ensemble storytelling, puppetry, live music and stunning theatrics. 7.30pm, Wed and Thurs 2.30pm, from £15.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

5 October

3-8 October

HEARING AID CLINIC

DEAD SHEEP Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The true story of how Mrs Thatcher

ORGAN RECITAL St Mary’s Church, Alveley Free afternoon recital by highly respected organist Bernard Salter at 2.30pm followed by tea and biscuits.

5 October Oswestry Library Clinic run by volunteers, 10am-12pm.

Free drop-in event.

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OCTOBER 2016

LEISURE

Information on these pages is provided in good faith but we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. Please phone the contact number to check on dates and times

5 October

THE UNIQUE KOMEDY UKELELE ORCHESTRA Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford A unique evening of comedy and music, from Mozart to Monty Python, Bach to The Beatles. 7.30pm, £20, www.theplacetelford.com

6 October

OSWESTRY HERITAGE COMICS Oswestry Library Talk by local archaeologist and illustrator John Swogger as part of the learning at lunchtime series of talks. 12.30-1.30pm, £2.50, book at the library.

6 October

SNOW WHITE The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford Join Vienna Festival Ballet on a magical journey with their unmissable production of Snow White. World premiere choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question; who is the fairest one of all? 7pm, £19.50/17.50/12, www. theplacetelford.com

7 October

SHREWSBURY FARMERS’ MARKET The Square Farmers’ market held on the first Friday of the month, 9am-4pm.

7 October

MP SURGERY 54 Broad Street, Ludlow Advice surgery with Philip Dunne MP, 4.30-6pm. To make an appointment telephone the constituency office on 01584 872187.

7 October

DAVID FRANCIS – Q&A AND CONCERT Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Oswestry New York singer/songwriter and now film maker David Francis shows and talks about his first film A Village Folksinger. This is one of the first screenings of the film in Europe. 7.30pm, tickets from www. hermonchapel.com or 01691 662196.

7, 14, 21, 28 October

CHILDREN’S STORYTIME Wenlock Books, Much Wenlock Storytime for babies up to preschools, every Friday from 11am until noon, £2.50 per family.

7 October

TOYAH: ACOUSTIC, UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Enginuity, Coalbrookdale A wonderful chance to experience the 80’s pop superstar in an intimate setting where music and stories take centre stage. 8pm, £20, www. ironbridge.org.uk

7 October

AN EVENING WITH SALLY BARKER

Events online at www.virtual-shropshire.co.uk

The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock A singer/songwriter whose back catalogue encompasses folk, jazz, blues and soul, she reduced Sir Tom Jones to tears as he mentored her to the final of The Voice in 2014. 8pm, £15, www.edgeartscentre.com

� 14 OCTOBER About Africa by Harry Hook. Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury 7 October

8 October

ALL STAR SUPERSLAM WRESTLING

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford Come and see the larger-than-life characters from all corners of the world do battle inside the ring with heavyweight collisions and jaw-dropping high-flying action.

7.30pm, £15/10, family £45, www. theplacetelford.com

Alveley Village Hall Box Tale Soup present their new family adaptation, performed by just two actors and a cast of puppets. An Arts Alive event. 7.30pm, adult £10, children £5, family £25. 01746 780478.

7-8 October

Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Oswestry Two of Britain’s most celebrated virtuoso reed players join forces to promise the ultimate jazz night. 8pm, £12. Book at www.hermonchapel. com

ROXY MAGIC Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth The best and longest-running tribute to Bryan Ferry and Roxy Music. Two very different concerts, featuring everything from the art rock of the 70s to Ferry’s current sold-out tour.

8pm, £12, £14 on the door. www. theatreonthesteps.co.uk

8 October

MUCH WENLOCK FOOD MARKET Corn Exchange, the Buttermarket, the Square Selling a range of locally produced and delicious products. Contact Much Wenlock Town Council on 01952 727509.

8 October

MADE IN SHROPSHIRE The Square, Shrewsbury Market featuring arts, crafts and artisan produce, 9.30am-5pm.

8 October

MAMMOTH WEEKEND Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms Celebrating the discovery 30 years ago of the mammoth at the centre. Expert talks and mammoth facts. 10am-5pm.

8 October

BRIDGNORTH MVC AUTUMN CONCERT Bridgnorth Male Voice Choir is joined

by Kidderminster Valentines for a concert at Castle Hall. Tickets £7, in advance from 01746 710244 or on the door.

8 October

GILAD ATZMON AND ALAN BARNES LCD

8 October

PANT AUTUMN BAZAAR Pant Memorial Hall, near Oswestry.

From 2-5pm visit stalls from local organisations and businesses. Funds raised will go towards the hall.

8 October

DANE BAPTISTE: REASONABLE DOUBTS Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Dane Baptiste is already being hailed as one of the most exciting comic talents to break in years. 8pm, £13, www.theatresevern.co.uk

8, 29 October

WORKING FROM THE LIFE MODEL Qube, Oswald Road, Oswestry Untutored life drawing class is an opportunity for artists of all abilities to work directly from the life model.

10am-12pm, £5. Booking essential on 01691 656882.

9 October

ROTARY CLUB’S UP THE STEPS WALK Bridgnorth Town Hall Bridgnorth Rotary Club holds its fourth steps walk, taking in over 800 steps between High and Low Town.

Sponsored walk for Rotary good causes, £10 entry fee. www.rotary-ribi. org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=1242

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OCTOBER 2016

LEISURE

Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapidfire wit. Parental guidance 14+, 8pm, £16, www.theplacetelford.com

15 October

13 October

15 October

COMEDY NIGHT Dawley Town Hall, Telford Join Sean Percival, Stephen Dodd, Nipper Thomas & MC Ryan Gough for an evening of belly-laughs.

Strictly 18+, 8pm, £8.50, www. theplacetelford.com

13 October

AN AUTHOR’S LIFE Oswestry Library Join author and poet Margaret Holbrook to hear all about the writing process, getting those ideas and inspiration, and submitting and getting published. 12.30-1pm. £2.50, book with library staff.

14 October

KNIT, CRAFT AND NATTER 9 October

TALKING ANTIQUES WITH JUDITH MILLER Booka bookshop, Oswestry An afternoon of insight with leading antiques expert Judith Miller, author of more than 100 books on collecting, antiques and design. Doors open 3.30pm, tickets £5 from www. bookabookshop.co.uk

9 October

VINTAGE PLOUGHING MATCH Spoonley Gate Farm, Rudge, Pattingham 21st annual Morville Heath Ploughing Match, in aid of the Air Ambulance.

10am.

9 October

MONSTERSAURUS The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monsterously good! Suitable for ages three and above. 2pm, £10, family £36, www.theplacetelford.com

10 October

BOOKSTART RHYME TIME Bridgnorth Library Free session for children aged up to five, their parent and careers. 10.3011am.

10 October

RHYMETIME Oswestry Library Rhymes and songs followed by tea and talk for young mums as part of World Mental Health Day activities. 2pm– 2.30pm. Free drop-in event.

12-16 October

GANGSTA GRANNY Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury From the acclaimed producers of Horrible Histories comes the world premiere of this amazing story by David Walliams. Various times, from £13.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

13 October

RICH HALL The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford

Bridgnorth library Do you knit, sew or do any other portable handcraft? Bring along what you do for two hours of knit, craft and chatter. Meet others and gain inspiration through the stock of craft books and free access to the internet. All welcome, no pre-booking required. 10am-12 noon.

14 October

RSC: KING LEAR The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Cinema screening broadcast from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, starring Anthony Sher as King Lear. 7pm, £11/10, www.edgeartscentre.com

14 October

SHETLAND TEA AND MURDER MYSTERY WITH ANN CLEEVES The Memorial Hall, Oswestry Join award-winning crime writer Ann Cleeves as she talks about her latest Shetland novel, Cold Earth. Doors open 1.30pm. Tickets £10 from www. bookabookshop.co.uk

14 October

ABOUT AFRICA BY HARRY HOOK Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Respected photographer Harry Hook presents breathtaking images of Africa, where he grew up and which he has been photographing for over 40 years. Each picture holds a fascinating story. 7.30pm, £18.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

14-15 October

ROMEO AND JULIET Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Traffic of the Stage touring production of Shakespeare’s timeless tale of star-crossed lovers. 7.30pm, £12/10, special matinee for schools on Friday. www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

14-16 October

SHROPSHIRE RAINBOW FILM FESTIVAL Old Market Hall Cinema and The Hive, Shrewsbury The county’s LGBT film festival, now in its 11th year. For details go to www.rainbowfilmfestival.org.uk

APPLE DAY Bailey Street, Oswestry Celebration of the mighty apple with local apple experts from Cambrian Orchard.

ELLESMERE CRAFT MARKET Market Hall, Ellesmere This popular craft market takes place between 10am and 5pm, admission free.

BILLINGHAMS MOT&TYRE CENTRE TYRES

at competitive prices

15 October

CRAFTERNOON Oswestry Library Bring along your current project, share ideas and inspiration. 2-4pm. Free drop-in event.

15 October

SERIOUSLY DEAD Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford Brand new play with a star studded cast including Crissy Rock from Benidorm, and Frazer Hines of Doctor Who and Emmerdale. Seriously Dead brings together the lives of Albert, Betty, Billy and the local undertaker Tristan de Winter as they become inextricably linked towards a path that is leading to the pearly gates and a disgruntled guardian angel named Thelma. 7.30pm, £21, www.theplacetelford.com

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15 October

SEANN WALSH: ONE FOR THE ROAD The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock One of the most entertaining observational comics on the circuit, a regular on TV. 8pm, £14, www. edgeartscentre.com

15 October

AUSTENTATIOUS Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Join an all-star cast as they improvise a brand new Jane Austen work before your very eyes, based on a single audience suggestion.

Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, this is a Regency treat. 7.30pm, £13.50, www. theatresevern.co.uk

OPENING TIMES Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm Saturday 8am-12noon FREE Wi-Fi

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Unit 2C Building 11 Stanmore Ind. Est. Bridgnorth WV15 5HR

15-16, 22-30 October

SPOOKLEY PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Apley Farm Shop, Norton Ride the Pumpkin Express, listen to a story, pick and carve a pumpkin to take home. All day. www.apleyfarmshop.co.uk

16 October

ORCHARD DAY Dudmaston Estate, Alveley Celebrate the apple harvest with Shrewsbury Morris, apple pressing and more. From 11.30am, normal admission applies with additional charge for crafts, www.nationaltrust.org.uk

16 October

BRIDGNORTH JAZZ Black Boy Inn, Bridgnorth With Sarah Smith on violin, Andy McKenzie on guitar and Greg Robley on bass. 12.30pm start.

16 October

THE WHITNEY HOUSTON STORY Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Tribute to one of the world’s most

Organiser: Joanne Battams

PROCEEDS TO BE SPLIT BETWEEN Macmillan Cancer Support and Shrewsbury Hospital’s Lingen Davies Cancer Centre

SAT. 1ST OCTOBER 10am till 12pm Whole LIfe Centre, Cabin Lane, Oswestry.

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OCTOBER 2016

LEISURE

n 29 OCTOBER Ghostly Gaslight. Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

revered singers, with a full band and dancers. Including 20 of her most popular tracks. 7.30pm, from £21, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

16 October

GRIMETHORPE COLLIERY BAND The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford Stars of the hit movie Brassed Off, Grimethorpe Colliery Band present a new programme of popular material.

3pm, £22/6, www.theplacetelford.com

17 October

BRIDGNORTH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY LECTURE SERIES Castle Hall, Bridgnorth Anthony Daniels will speak on ‘fraudulent election in Bridgnorth’.

Visitors welcome, 7.30pm, £3.

17 October

CHRIS PACKHAM: TADPOLES NOT INCLUDED Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton The naturalist presents an evening of zoological riches, humorous anecdotes and thought-provoking questions about the creatures we say we love – and some we don’t. 7.30pm, from £19.25, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

17 October

LIVE OPERA: COSI FAN TUTTE Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock Mozart’s opera, live from the Royal Opera House, performed by a cast of rising stars. 6.30pm, £11/10.

18 October

LIVING WITH LUKE Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford This critically acclaimed play shows the daily struggle that affects those living with autism. Set entirely in a wrestling ring, it is touring nationally for the first time. Suitable for ages 14+, contains strong language. 7.30pm, £15/10, www. theplacetelford.com

18 October

OCEAN FILM FESTIVAL Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Theatre goers are invited to spend a fascinating evening under water, without getting their feet wet!

Returning to Shropshire as part of its world tour, the programme showcases the best undersea footage from around the world. 7.30pm, £14/12, www.theatresevern.co.uk

18-22 October

A TALE OF TWO CITIES Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton Interweaving one family’s intensely personal drama with the terror and chaos of the French Revolution, Dickens’ epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption.

7.30pm, Wed and Sat 2.30pm, from £12, www.grandtheatre.co.uk

19 October

LITERARY LUNCH WITH VICTORIA HISLOP The Wynnstay Hotel, Oswestry Meet the bestselling author of The Island, The Thread and The Return as she talks about her new novel Cartes Postales from Greece. Doors open 12.30pm. Tickets £30, including buffet lunch and signed hardback, from www.bookabookshop.co.uk

19-22 October

THE HOLLOW Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Mad Cow Productions present Agatha Christie’s classic English country house mystery. 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, from £14.50, www.theatresevern.co.uk

20 October

BRIDGNORTH AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB: AUDIO VISUAL SHOW Low Town Community Hall, Bridgnorth The club meets every Thursday; this month’s guest speaker is John Holt with ‘audio visual show’. All welcome, 7.30pm.

20 October

BRIDGNORTH WI Baptist Church, Bridgnorth Talk by Malcolm and Val Whittall on ‘how to become a cartoonist’. 7.30pm.

20 October

SHIFNAL BEER FESTIVAL War Memorial Club, Shifnal Organised by Telford CAMRA, with more than 20 real ales plus cider and perry.

Free entry, families welcome, Thursday 5-11pm, Friday and Saturday 12-11pm.

20 October

THE SENSATIONAL 60S EXPERIENCE Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury A sell-out at the theatre for the last three years, this explosive 60s show returns with five of the most influential artistes of the decade – Hermans Hermits, The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Fortunes, The Ivy League, plus Chris Farlowe and New Amen Corner. 7.30pm, from £25, www.theatresevern.co.uk

class music, slick choreography and an amazing band, this features songs from legendary artistes. 7.30pm, £23, www.theatresevern.co.uk

22 October

AUTUMN CRAFT FAIR Willow Gallery, Oswestry 10am to 5pm. Showcasing locally made craft from a range of makers. www.willowgalleryoswestry.org

22 October

BEYOND THE BARRICADE Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, Telford Recreating original West End and Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity, this cast of past principle performers from Les Miserables present a blockbusting two-hour show, now established as the nation’s favourite musical theatre concert. £23, www.theplacetelford.com

22 October

PAUL DRAKELEY ALL-STAR ORCHESTRA Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock A salute to the crooners and bands of yesteryear from a talented group of musicians who are constantly in demand to back international stars or play the cruise ships. 8pm, £12, www. edgeartscentre.com

22 October

SONS OF PITCHES Ellesmere College Concert by the winners of BBC’s The Naked Choir with Gareth Malone, supported by Oswestry’s Libby Gliksman, in aid of Shropshire Rural Communities Charity. 7.30pm, £20 from 01743 360641.

21 October

22-23 October

LEE MEAD

SHREWSBURY FLEA MARKET

The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford On tour to promote his new album Some Enchanted Evening, with songs from the MGM films and musical theatre of the 40s and 50s. 7.30pm, £22.50, www.theplacetelford.com

West Midlands Showground, Shrewsbury Antiques, vintage, retro, salvage and collectables. 8.30am-4.30pm. £2.50, over 65s £1.50, under 14s free.

21 October

Engine House, Highley An early chance to get your Christmas goods. £6/5/3.50, family £16.50. www. svr.co.uk

MOTOWN’S GREATEST HITS Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Completely live and combining first

22-23 October

CHRISTMAS GIFT FAYRE

22-30 October

HALLOWEEN TRAIL Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Solve the creepy clues to win a prize.

11am-3pm, trail map £2. On 26 October, the park hosts two-hour Spooky Creatures sessions at 10am and 1.30pm, including pushchairfriendly walk, batty games, and potion making. Child £3.50, booking essential on 01746 781192. On 28 October there’s a lantern walk at 4.30pm, £5, booking essential on same number.

22-30 October

MAKE PNEUMATIC MONSTERS Enginuity, Ironbridge Use your imagination to design and make a scary Halloween monster from craft materials then see how quickly you can make it move using compressed air. Drop-in workshops run from 10.30am-3.45pm, some additional costs apply. www.ironbridge.org.uk

22-31 October

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR Park Hall Countryside Experience, Oswestry Spooktacular happenings down on the farm with wacky games, pumpkin carving and fright time in the haunted house.

22, 24-29 October

SPOOKY TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS Jackfield Tile Museum, near Ironbridge Join a Halloween themed drop-in tile decorating workshop and try the tube lining technique to produce a tile featuring your own spooky design and choice of colours. Museum admission charges apply, www.ironbridge.org.uk

22-30 October

VICTORIAN HALLOWEEN Blists Hill Victorian Town, near Ironbridge See how the Victorians prepared for Halloween and the traditions and efforts they went to ward off ghosts and ghouls from entering their homes, shops and streets. Museum admission charges apply, www.ironbridge.org.uk

43

OCTOBER 2016

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45

OCTOBER 2016

LEISURE

The British Ironwork Centre, near Oswestry A sports, performance, retro and classic car meet from 8.30am-11.30am.

Offering bacon or sausage baps, tea, coffee and a vast array of cars.

Hammerstein’s Cinderella follows the classic fairy-tale of the orphan girl as she deals with her hateful stepmother and stepsisters, whilst all the time dreaming of simply going to the Prince’s Ball. 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, from £12, www.theplacetelford.com

24 October

27 October

MIDLANDS BREAKFAST CLUB

FUNGI FORAY Severn Valley Country Park, Alveley Join the rangers and Jo Weightman of Herefordshire Fungus Survey Group for this guided walk. 10am-noon, 1.303.30pm. Places limited, to book call 01746 781192. Adults £4.50, child £3, payable in advance. 01746 781192.

UKELELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The world renowed all-singing, all-plucking superstars return with their toe-tapping music and hilarious banter. 7.30pm, from £24, www. theatresevern.co.uk

24-28 October

27 October

HALLOWEEN CERAMIC WORKSHOPS

BIGGING UP THE BARD

Coalport China Museum, near Ironbridge Paint a biscuit fired ceramic money box or create a creepy creature from air-dry clay, maybe a bat, spider or rat! Sessions 11am-4pm. Museum admission charges apply, www.ironbridge.org.uk

25 October

MARK RADCLIFFE: SHOULD YOU BE INTERESTED Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Radio and TV presenter, musician, writer and friend of the stars, Mark Radcliffe has been making a little go a long way for several decades now.

This show is no exception. Expect songs and stories of middle-aged angst along with tales of ineptitude.

8pm, £16, www.theatresevern.co.uk

25 October

PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING Castle Hall, Bridgnorth Annual public screening evening organised by Bridgnorth Lions. From 6pm. www.bridgnorthlions.org.uk

26 October

FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury The Royal British Legion in Shropshire invites one and all to this annual Festival of Remembrance. Hosted by Eric Smith (BBC Radio Shropshire), highlights include performances by the Shrewsbury Brass Band, Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir, a dramatic reading from the ‘Gunners’, a local WWI memoir, and an introduction to the role of the Cadets in the county. The evening concludes with the formal Service of Remembrance. All proceeds to the Poppy Appeal. 7.30pm, £10, www.theatresevern.co.uk

26-27 October

THE GHOST WALK Bridgnorth Guides from Theatre on the Steps lead you through the avenues and alleyways of Bridgnorth, finding ghosts to tell you how they met their grisly ends. Starting from the town hall at 7pm, early booking essential. Adults £10, children £5. www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

26-29 October

CINDERELLA THE MUSICAL The Place @ Oakengates Theatre, Telford Join the award-winning TADLOP as they bring the magic to life.

Originally written for television and starring Julie Andrews, Rodgers and

n 27-29 OCTOBER SVR Ghost Trains Severn Valley Railway, Bridgnorth

23 October

Oswestry Library Bard’s Best Bits ... of Romeo and Juliet with OddSocks Theatre Company. Fun for all the family from aged seven. 10.30am12pm. Free but book your place.

27-29 October

SVR GHOST TRAINS Severn Valley Railway, Bridgnorth Brave an exhilarating night-time ride from Kidderminster to Arley. Dress up in your scariest outfits, get a ghoulish goody bag and see the stations transformed into a variety of ghostly scenes. Booking essential, £10, www.svr.co.uk

28 October

PHILLIP HENRY AND HANNAH MARTIN Willow Gallery, Oswestry Winners of the Best Duo title at the Radio 2 Folk Awards, singer/songwriter Hannah is a skilled fiddler, viola and banjo player while Philip is one of the UK’s finest slide guitarists. 8pm, £12, booking at www.willowgalleryoswestry.org

28 October

NIGEL MAZLYN JONES WITH DAVE REEVES Hermon Chapel Arts Centre, Oswestry Well known on the UK festival scene, guitarist Nigel Mazlyn Jones has often toured UK and European major venues supporting well-known bands like Barclay James Harvest, Renaissance and Bob Geldof. 8pm, £7 from www.hermonchapel.com

Dr Seuss, where we revisit beloved characters including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Amazing Mayzie and JoJo. Perfect for all the family. Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, £14, www.theatresevern.co.uk

29 October

TABLE TOP SALE Eardington Village Hall, near Bridgnorth Everyone is welcome to this annual fundraising event, between 10am2pm, in aid of hall renovations.

29 October

with ghosts, ghouls and monsters.

6-9pm, £9.95, £6.75 children, £31 family. www.ironbridge.org.uk

29 October

SOUNDBOARD IN CONCERT St Mary’s Church, Alveley Multi-talented trio combining lyrical pop, blues, African, Celtic, jazz and classical influences. 7.30pm, £7.50, 01746 780478.

30 October

BRIDGNORTH 10K

Bailey Head, Oswestry Scary goings-on in the market place.

Free family fun including face painting, competitions and scary traders.

Town Hall, Bridgnorth Undulating road route starting and finishing at the town hall. Organised

by Bridgnorth Running Club. 11am, £16/14, www.bridgnorthrunningclub. weebly.com

29 October

30 October

HALLOWEEN AT WENLOCK EDGE

MUDSTACLE OBSTACLE CHALLENGE

HALLOWEEN MARKET

Bailey Head & Bailey Street, Oswestry Monthly artisan market selling local produce including pies, pastries, meat, fish, cheese, cakes and crafts. 9am-3pm.

Presthope car park 3-5pm. Fun for children who are encouraged to go in fancy dress and will make their own bat. Go for a walk in search of a witch who’ll tell spooky tales. 3-5pm, £2 per child plus 50p for the bat. 01694 725000.

28 October

29 October

30 October

ALL HALLOW’S EVE WALK

CAPABILITY BROWN AUTUMN WALK

28 October

OSWESTRY ARTISAN MARKET

WINNIE THE WITCH BIRTHDAY STORYTIME Oswestry Library Celebrate the birthday of the iconic witch with stories from 2-3pm. Free but book your place with library staff.

28-29 October

BEE GEES FEVER Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Tribute band performing all the soulful ballads to the high-energy disco classics of the Bee Gees. 8pm, £10, www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

28-29 October

SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Seussical takes us into the world of

Wenlock Edge car park, Much Wenlock Wander through the wild Wenlock woods and watch out for bats, witches and ghouls. May not be suitable for under 10s. 7-9pm. Booking essential on 01694 725000. £5.

29 October

GHOSTLY GASLIGHT Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge Blists Hill Victorian Town’s annual Halloween fright night takes on a new dimension this year with the arrival of cult characters from the Ghostbusters movies. The town’s Ghostly Gaslight evening will see the streets, shops and houses transformed into eerie places filled

Weston Park near Shifnal Kick Ass Endurance challenge you to shifting terrain and lots of obstacles within a 10km course. £49 on the day, cheaper in advance, registration opens at 8.45am, www. kickassendurance.co.uk

Weston Park, near Shifnal To celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Capability Brown, head gardener Martin Gee shows off the landscape in all its autumnal glory.

10.30am, £6/5/3 payable on the day. www.weston-park.com

30 October

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Theatre Severn, Shrewbury Autumn concert featuring violin soloist Carolin Widmann. Pieces from Rossini, Mendelssohn and Sibelius. 7.30pm, from £32.50, www. theatresevern.co.uk

46

OCTOBER 2016 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

PROTECTION OF ‘HERITAGE ASSETS’

W

e may not all have an old master hanging on the wall but protecting the family’s antiques and art from inheritance tax should be a key part of estate planning. Tom Devey, a Partner with Midlands law firm FBC Manby Bowdler, leads a team which specialises in the protection of ‘heritage assets’.

The recent death of the billionaire landowner, the 6th Duke of Westminster, has thrown a spotlight on how astute estate planning can protect your nearest and dearest from a large inheritance bill.

But the Duke’s son, 25-year-old Hugh Grosvenor, is unlikely to be worrying about a large tax demand on the reported £9 billion estate, thanks to a series of trusts designed to protect the family wealth.

Tom says: “When it comes down to inheritance tax planning, people can often focus on issues such as property and

land when they may have a piece of art hanging on a wall or a vase on a table that could be worth a great deal of money.

“When someone dies, inheritance tax is payable at 40 per cent on all assets over and above an individual’s nil rate band of £325,000. With rising house prices over the years, many people are already in excess of that level and adding in a valuable painting or ornament could increase the tax bill payable when you die.

“There are ways you can stop this happening. You can gift fine art and antiques to successors during your lifetime.

As long as you live for seven years from the date of the gift and there has been no ‘reservation of benefit’ then the item will not attract inheritance tax.

“However, if you’ve gifted the item to someone but practically retained it for the use or enjoyment of it, you would be liable to pay inheritance tax.

“We often work with clients to draw up an arrangement where a donor can

gift artwork or antiques and arrange to lease back the item while they are alive at around one per cent of its open market value.”

If you’d like to know more you can contact Tom on 01743 284157 or by email at t.devey@fbcmb.co.uk Tom is a Partner in FBC Manby Bowdler’s award-winning Agriculture and Rural Services department, the top ranked agricultural legal team in Shropshire. He heads a specialist heritage assets team and also advises on all issues relating to property and businesses including land sales and acquisitions.

Tom Devey, a Partner in the Agricultural & Rural Services team at FBC Manby Bowdler

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47

OCTOBER 2016

WOMAN

The season has changed and so has our wardrobe content – keep covered up this autumn/winter with these beautiful high street buys

This look is perfect for shopping trips, keeping warm yet looking stylish.

M&Co Plus range, jumper £22, coat £65, jeans £20, boots £39.50.

above: An essential wardrobe item for A/W, a light sparkly jumper, Primark, £10. below: The injection of the ruffle keeps this cover up bang on trend, Next, £30.

above: The lace trim adds a really feminine look to this jumper, from F&F at Tesco, £20.

below: Wraps always look classy and chic, especially when teamed with a hat. This cashmere button wrap is from Phase Eight for £69.

above: This print cardigan is ideal for a day time look, team with a plain white tee and black jeans.

From Matalan, £35.

Love this River Island jacket, practical and stylish, £85.

48

OCTOBER 2016

Part of the Rotherwood Group

a new standard in healthcare

Part of the Rotherwood Group of Group Part of the the Rotherwood Rotherwood Group newPart standard in healthcare

a a a new new standard standard in in healthcare healthcare

If you’d like to arrange a viewing or just need some advice - we’re here to help:

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49

OCTOBER 2016

HEALTH

Living with a long-term condition More and more people are living long, happy lives while at the same time managing long-term medical conditions (LTCs).

Derek Plimmer, aged 72, from Trench in Telford was first diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes aged 28. Since then he has raised a family and defeated cancer.

And increasingly he manages the condition himself.

When he was first diagnosed he was admitted to hospital for 10 days; when he left his lifestyle changed, and he would regularly make hospital visits which lasted all day. Now he sees a specialist every 15 months, has become an ‘expert patient’ with extensive knowledge of n Derek Plimmer is an ‘expert patient’ his condition, and has access to a diabetes nurse when needed.

He played badminton regularly and sits on the management committee of Telford’s Senior Citizens Forum. Even eating a healthy diet – so vital to someone with diabetes – is less of a challenge. Derek says: “It’s much easier these days, because the food is labelled so well, especially in terms of carbohydrates, which are important and I need to know about.”

Before his diagnosis, Derek had been experiencing butterflies in his stomach, and other people noticed he had slowed down a little and was a bit lethargic. An appointment with his doctor and blood tests confirmed diabetes, with the doctor telling him that the butterfly sensation was actually his stomach eating his own body fat. His GP was surprised by the diagnosis because of his age and he was admitted straight to hospital to help avoid getting a cold or the flu.

“It was a big shock to everyone,” says Derek. “It wasn’t a condition that was in the family and I was young and fit. I had to spend 10 days in the hospital and when I came out, I went straight to work and had to adapt to a totally new routine.”

Before his diabetes was identified, Derek played badminton, and he kept that up. Derek says he always felt it was important to take the initiative in terms of controlling his lifestyle and the diabetes and took it upon himself to find out as much as possible.

“I manage my own stats, keeping a daily record in my book – which the clinical team find really helpful.”

Dr Jo Leahy, chair of Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Type 1 diabetes, like many LTCs, is a serious medical condition which can’t be cured but can be managed very successfully, largely in the community. Cases like Mr Plimmer’s are proof that having an LTC need not be a bar to having a very active life. Changes in treatment and monitoring are making this more possible and we want to see more services move into the community. This will allow our hospitals to concentrate on essential services to the patients who most need to be there.”

Get the feel good factor back From Brexit to getting back to the school run and coping with an ever-increasing workload – there are times when the stresses and strains of life can seem too much.

Monica Black from London’s Belsize Health Clinic has created a Little Book of Helpfulness which offers quick, easy and simple techniques to help reduce anxiety, stress and fears. Here is one of Monica’s top tips to get that feel good factor: lStand up, put your shoulders back lStand tall and feel as though a piece of string is pulling up your spine and head lPull in your tummy and close your eyes

lBreath from your tummy (diaphragm) regularly, evenly, slowly lSee standing in front of you, a happy, confident, secure you. Now see, feel and sense that YOU lWhen you are ready walk in to THAT YOU. Feel and sense all those positive, good feelings of that other you lOnce you do, press your thumb and index finger together and feel those good, positive feelings getting bigger and stronger lAs you breathe slowly in, breath in positivity and lightness and breath out anything that is not doing you any good lWhen you are ready, open your eyes and bring back with you the new you

SEASON FOR FLU Dr Simon Carvell Winter beckons, and it’s flu season. Our strategy meetings and focus groups are over. The vaccine fridges are full in eager expectation of a good uptake.

Each year we endeavour to encourage as many eligible patients to have the flu vaccine as possible.

The flu immunisation campaign is one of the most effective interventions offered by the NHS. Flu increases the risk of death in vulnerable groups, and the vaccine is offered to all patients who are 65 years old and over, to all patients with significant long-term conditions, to pregnant women, to children aged 2-7 years on 31 August 2016, those in long term residential care, carers and health care workers.

The vaccine’s effectiveness each year is between 50-60%; there has generally been a good match between the strains of flu in the vaccine and those strains that have been seen circulating in the community. There was a blip in 2014/15 where limited protection was provided to a strain of an Influenza A virus.

What’s in this year’s vaccine? It is a trivalent vaccine, which means it targets three viruses. The viruses are (abbreviated to) A/California, A/Hong Kong and B/Brisbane.

The A refers to an Influenza A virus which is a virus that causes outbreaks that lead to more severe illness. The B refers to an Influenza B virus that tends to cause less severe illness and smaller outbreaks. The rather exotic title, eg California, refers to the laboratory where the virus was first isolated.

The flu vaccine is offered as soon as possible between September and November, the immune response following vaccination takes about two weeks to develop fully. The protection from the vaccine lasts approximately one flu season.

Our surgery is particularly targetting increasing the uptake of flu vaccination among pregnant women. Influenza during pregnancy may be associated with perinatal mortality, prematurity, smaller neonatal size, lower birth weights and an increased risk of complications for the mother.

The flu vaccine is delivered to patients at a time when the flu is starting to become evident in the communities that we live in. It is a common misconception that the vaccine can cause the flu.

The flu vaccination is safe and effective. As a health care worker and a keen advocate of the vaccination campaign I will be taking up the offer of my annual vaccination and I’d encourage all those who are eligible to look out for local publicity advertising flu vaccination sessions.

50

OCTOBER 2016

Cadmore Lodge

Set in luxurious surroundings, with as much or as little, first class, quality care to suit residents or guest’s personal requirements. Cadmore will soon be offering twenty four hour, nursing care, respite and palliative care, in autumn 2016. With superbly appointed modern bedrooms with en-suite wet rooms, the finest of cuisine, an indoor heated swimming pool and private golf course.

Cadmore Lodge, St. Michaels, Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire WR 15 8TQ E:info@cadmorelodge.co.uk T: 01584 810044 www.cadmorelodge.co.uk

THE VICARAGE

NURSING HOME

The Vicarage Nursing Home provides high quality, twenty four hour, nursing care. It is situated in the quiet, semi-rural location of Bayston Hill near Shrewsbury. We have themed hallways, feature bedroom doors and a specially designed dining room. A full activities program, person centred and one to one activities and quality entertainers. Beautiful landscaped and sensory gardens, vegetable plots and greenhouses.

The Vicarage Nursing Home

The Common, Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury SY3 0EA E: vicaragenursinghome@tiscali.co.uk T: 01743 874030 www.vicaragenursing.co.uk

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51

OCTOBER 2016

RECIPES

GAME ON

S

imply put, game is wild animals and birds that are hunted and eaten, although nowadays many are farmed and raised domestically.

Many of us are uncertain about how to cook game or are unsure about the flavours, but autumn and winter are the ideal time to indulge in this fresh, quality and low fat meat. For most game, the shooting season runs from the beginning of October until the end of January, and if you buy from a supplier who knows their game and can advise you on the best way of cooking correctly then there’s no reason at all why it shouldn’t be moist and flavoursome as well as seasonal.

For more information visit theTaste of Game website for recipe ideas, news and where to buy. www.tasteofgame.org.uk

Roast grouse with red wine, port and blackberry sauce and bread sauce fritters Ingredients 2 grouse 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon 2 tbsp rapeseed oil 50g salted butter 2 garlic cloves 2 sprigs thyme Bread sauce fritters 2 tbsp mashed potato (leftovers work well) 250ml milk 2 cloves ¼ star anise 1 /2 clove garlic ¼ tsp cinnamon 1 /2 clove garlic 4 thick slices white bread cubed (fresh) Salt and pepper 2 tbsp leftover vegetables (can be anything) Red wine sauce 150ml red wine 75ml glass of port 200ml chicken stock Knob of butter 12 blackberries (optional)

Method Wrap breasts with smoked bacon, place in a medium hot, heavy-bottomed frying pan with vegetable oil and a knob of butter.

Leaving the skin on crush (do not chop) a couple of garlic cloves and place them in the pan together with the thyme.

Over a medium heat, brown the grouse on one side, then the other, then the breast. Finally cook it with the back down. The entire process should take about 10 minutes – remember to brown the legs.

Set aside in a warm place to allow the grouse to rest for five minutes or so.

It should then be ready to serve. If not, and still a bit pink, finish in an oven at 180°C for four to five minutes.

To make the fritters: Add to the milk the two cloves, a quarter of star anise, ¼ tsp cinnamon and half a clove of garlic.

Warm the milk through, and then sieve to remove the cloves, garlic etc. Add bread cubes.

Season with salt and pepper and cook on low heat for five minutes, stirring regularly. Set aside.

Combine the bread sauce with two tablespoons each of mashed potato and leftover vegetables. Season.

Heat a knob of butter or a splash of vegetable oil in a small non-stick pan, and spoon in a serving of the fritter mixture. Brown on one side and turn to brown on the other. Set each aside and keep warm.

52

OCTOBER 2016

RECIPES

To make the sauce: Heat port and red wine in a saucepan, reduce by half, then add the stock. Reduce again so the sauce is just thick enough to ‘coat’ the meat. Add a knob of butter for a lovely sheen.

Serve the grouse whole with red wine sauce with the fritters alongside. Add blackberries to the sauce and warm through before serving.

Serve with green vegetables.

Pheasant pasties Ingredients 500g of short crust pastry (for ease buy readymade or you can make your own. One ready rolled pack will make about 3 pasties).

1 pheasant 2 waxy potatoes, peeled and grated on the large side of a cheese grater 1 /2 small swede, peeled and grated on the large side of a cheese grater 6 juniper berries, crushed 8 sprigs of thyme, leaves picked and finely chopped Salt and pepper, and a little flour 70g butter 1 egg, beaten (for an egg wash)

Method Preheat oven to 375F/190c or gas mark 5.

Roast the pheasant for about 20 minutes. This will make it much easier to cut/pull the meat off it.

Once the bird has cooled enough to touch, peel of all the skin and discard. Using a sharp knife, or a fork, pull the meat off both breasts and legs. Carefully cut as much meat as possible off the legs, taking care not to include any small bones.

Cut the meat into a rough dice.

Toss the meat with the juniper berries and thyme. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.

Take a 6 inch dish, and place on the dough.

Cut around the dish to form a pastry disc. Do this as many times as the pastry allows.

Put a layer or two of potato and turnip down – leaving a ½ inch border around the edge (room for crimping). Top with some of the pheasant meat.

Add a couple of small cubes of butter (or if you are feeling very extravagant a knob of clotted cream) and sprinkle the top of the meat with a little flour.

Brush the pastry edges with a little water.

Bring both edges up to the top of the pasty and press the edges together tightly.

Now for the crimping: Start at one end of the edge. For a classic crimp, use one finger to push one side of the pastry, pinch around that finger with the finger and thumb of your other hand to create a scalloped effect.

Brush the outsides with a little of the beaten egg. On both sides of the pasty cut a short (1 inch) hole to let steam out.

Repeat until all the meat is used up.

Put the pasties on a baking sheet lined with the greaseproof paper which comes with the pastry if you buy ready rolled.

Crank the oven up to 425F/ 220c or gas mark 7 and bake for 20 minutes.

Turn the oven down to 320F/160c or gas mark 3 and bake for a further 40 minutes.

Allow to cool slightly before eating; the insides will be really hot.

Pot roast partridge with honey roast root vegetables Serves 4

Ingredients 4 whole dressed partridges 2 knobs of butter 2 tbsp olive oil Salt and ground pepper 4 sprigs of thyme 4 cloves of garlic, crushed Honey roast root vegetables: 2 large carrots 2 large parsnips 1 medium swede 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 large sprig of thyme 3 tbsp of honey 4 tbsp cider vinegar 5fl oz/150ml chicken or game stock

53

OCTOBER 2016

RECIPES

Method Place garlic and thyme in cavity of partridge. Heat large ovenproof frying pan with olive oil and butter.

When it starts to foam add the partridges. Seal birds for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and remove from the pan.

Wash and peel vegetables before cutting into 1in/2cm square chunks.

Place vegetables in pan, cover with cold water, add a little salt. Bring to boil and cook until al dente and strain.

Roast off the vegetables in the frying pan, add thyme and garlic. Deglaze pan with cider vinegar, add honey and season with salt and pepper.

Place the birds on top of the root vegetables and season.

Roast in a preheated oven at 200C/4000F/gas mark 6 for about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the oven, cover with foil and allow to rest for a further 5-7 minutes.

Strain off the pot roast juice, place in a small pan and reduce by half. Finish the light partridge gravy by whisking in 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Season and taste.

Serve with game chips or potato crisps.

Shrewsbury Chocolate Festival is back even bigger and better for 2016 offering tastings, demos and talks for the county’s chocoholics.

The weekend event runs from 1213 November at St Mary’s Church.

Telephone 07814 113156 for details.

Tiger Gin, created by The Shropshire Gin Company, has been awarded a silver medal in the ultra premium category of The Gin Masters 2016.

This accolade is in addition to being recognised by the International Spirit Awards as being ‘one of the best gins in the world’.

Derwen College, near Oswestry, has been recognised for its homeproduced preserves.

The college’s food centre won two coveted Great Taste Awards, one for its raspberry jam and one for the spiced apple chutney.

Venison burger with root vegetable crisps and blue cheese Serves 4

Ingredients 600g coarsely minced venison 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 tsp chopped thyme Sea salt Ground black pepper 1 parsnip 2 carrots 1 celeriac 4 slices blue cheese 4 buns Seasonal salad Mustard

Method To make the burgers, mix the mince, onion and thyme together, adding salt and pepper to season. If you wish, fry a small piece of the mix and taste it to make sure that the seasoning is just right for you.

Divide the burger mix into four patties and place in the fridge for a couple of hours to firm up.

Finely slice the root vegetables and fry in vegetable oil until crisp. Drain, season with salt and set aside so that they remain crispy.

Heat a frying pan with a little oil and fry the burgers for 4 to 5 minutes on each side – longer if you like them well done.

Place the burgers on a baking tray, add a thick slice of blue cheese and brown under the grill.

Serve the cheeseburgers in a toasted bun with the root vegetable crisps, salad and mustard.

A popular Shrewsbury Americanstyle smokehouse restaurant has changed hands.

Smoke Stop restaurant, in Ford, which was previously owned by Shrewsbury Town footballer Jake King and his wife Linda, has been sold to an unnamed restaurateur.

The owner of Blakelands Country House, near Bridgnorth, has celebrated two decades at the business.

Paul Morgan took over the day-today running of the business from his parents 20 years ago and has the very busy role of wedding co-ordinator, organising and managing more than 80 weddings a year.

Midlanders are urged to get behind their local farm shop or deli by voting for them as the best in the Midlands 2016.

The winner will receive a stand at the BBC Good Food Show Winter at the NEC from 24-27 November. To nominate, visit bbcgoodfoodshowwinter.com/ Midlandsbestdeli Are your kitchen knives too blunt to cut?

Richard the Knife Sharpener visits Battlefield 1403 Farm Shop in Shrewsbury regularly to sharpen all the blades on site and is happy to sharpen your knives, scissors and even hedging shears. He is next at the farm shop on 9 October. Call 01939 210 905 for details.

Unsure on how to cook your game?

Why not become a culinary expert in wild bird and meat on the Taste of Game full-day cookery course at Brompton Cookery School, near Shrewsbury on 22 October, priced £150. www.bromptoncookeryschool. co.uk for details.

54

OCTOBER 2016

FOOD ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Taste of Britain curries favour

E

ast met West when a Bridgnorth curry chef showcased his Britishinfluenced curry dishes at an international food festival in India - the original home of spice.

Amjad Ali, executive chef and business partner at Eurasia Tandoori restaurant in West Castle Street, was one of a team of five chefs invited to represent Britain by demonstrating their culinary skills at The Taste of Britain Curry Festival in Bangalore.

n Amjad Ali’s speciality Chilli Mustard Glazed Fish

The award-winning chef joined four top chefs from across the UK to make the gourmet equivalent of Team GB. The team was led by Michelin-starred chef Mark Poynton, who has appeared on television’s Great British Menu.

The festival, which took place at the ITC Windsor Bangalore Hotel, offered guests more than 50 of the chefs’ favourite Indian-British fusion dishes such as legendary British chicken tikka masala, jalfrezi and balti curry dishes. Amjad Ali cooked up some of his favourite signature dishes, including a lamb biryani, chilli mustard glazed fish and chicken tikka with oregano.

Taste of Britain Curry Festival is a globetrotting event organised by Curry Life Magazine for one week in the summer.

Chef Amjad Ali said of the trip: “This was such an inspiring event. We were able to showcase our best dishes and also pick up ideas from some of the UK’s best chefs. I am now looking forward to creating new dishes for the Eurasia Tandoori menu.”

Eurasia owner Shamin Haque said that although Amjad was missed, he and the restaurant’s loyal customers were supportive and very proud of his success.

n The Taste of Britain Curry Festival team: Amjad

Ali with team mates Syed Zohorul Islam, Syed Noor Hussain and Michelin-star chef Mark Poynton

Shamin said: “Chef Amjad has built up a good team at the Eurasia Tandoori who looked after customers well while he was away for two weeks.

“Being part of this prestigious gastronomic tour in India and working with culinary master chefs, was an opportunity not be missed. Chef Amjad has returned with fresh ideas for our menu which ultimately benefits our customers who enjoy superb food.”

This was not the first time that Chef Amjad was recognised for his culinary skills; he was voted one of the top 40 curry chefs in the UK at the 2015 Curry Chef of the Year awards.

Bookings are now being taken for

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£26.95 Adult £14.95 Children (under 12)

55

OCTOBER 2016

WHOLEFOOD SMOOTHIES

NATURAL WOMAN

I

t began as a quest to shed the n Louise Taylor with children William (aged 11), Fred (six) and Charlotte (nine) unwanted baby weight after having her third child but Louise Taylor’s healthy eating regime has grown into a business that’s booming. As well as dropping a dress size or two, Louise is now a ‘mumpreneur’ and creator of Shrewsburybased business Purition.

The Shropshire mum’s passion to find a natural way to get into shape is now helping thousands of other women (and men) across the UK to achieve their health and fitness goals through her booming micro food production business.

Louise first developed the Purition wholefood smoothie mixes three years ago after a friend introduced her to a similar product made in Australia. Made from a combination of nuts, seeds and coconut, the natural shakes were an instant winner for Louise, who had been struggling to find a natural, sustainable and healthy diet to use alongside her new fitness programme.

“I’d always made quite a conscious effort to eat the right foods, making flavours as well as a range of vegan products. foods, sugar and starch and sure I get my five-a-day for Over the last four to five months the company increasing nutrient-dense I was so excited about example,” says Louise. “But has expanded its team and Louise’s husband greens and eating protein, as after having the children – Edward has also got on board. well as good sources of fat this discovery that I William, Charlotte and Fred – “It’s been a whirlwind few years,” said Louise. at every meal. At the same I found even a good healthy had a bit of a light bulb time she was introduced “The product has taken off and sales have really diet wasn’t enough to stop exploded taking the business from a small start-up to a natural shake product moment really and the weight creeping on. that I could run around my family life to a growing created by a team of “I tried the usual calorie enterprise which now employs seven people. that was to develop a nutritionists in Australia. controlled and faddy diets “Our theory has been very simple and that “The shakes were loaded similar product which with healthy foods providing has just been to do things better. We have never but none of them seemed to work longer term. I was needed to prove demand for the product because the perfect combination of we could launch hungry all the time, tired we know that it already exists because so many protein, fibre and healthy and generally disappointed people are already using protein supplements and in the UK fats to support my new with the results. meal replacement products. approach,” she says.

“It was a frustrating situation that I’m sure “We are just saying to those people that if “Within several weeks I’d lost the baby weight many of us have been in.” you are going to use these products why not use I’d wanted, I was feeling more energetic but more one that is made from real food and contains no Eventually, Louise found a new approach importantly I no longer craved carbohydrates and nasty, processed ingredients or chemicals. to weight loss based on cutting out processed sugar – which are the main culprits in my book “It just makes sense – it’s like eating a real when it comes to gaining weight. orange instead of taking a Vitamin C tablet.

“I was so excited about this discovery that I “We have customers all over the UK and our had a bit of a light bulb moment really and that product is stocked in a number of gyms and was to develop a similar product which we could fitness centres as well as the Whole Food Market launch in the UK,” she continues. and Selfridges.

And so Purition was born.

“We soon hope to be launching the product Louise worked closely with the original in America and who knows what will happen if manufacturers in Australia to develop a unique that’s successful. It’s such an exciting time.” smoothie blend for the UK market and very soon As well as fitness fanatics, the shakes are afterwards she had established a small food particularly popular with busy multi-tasking mums production base at Harper Adams University like her, who often skip breakfast, says Louise. in Edgmond. In April 2013, the product was “For mums on the go, it’s a really easy way launched to the trade and then online. to make sure they get a good start to the day.

The business has since relocated to the There’s no excuse, it takes less than 15 seconds!”

Shropshire Food Enterprise Centre in Shrewsbury Even Louise can make time for that. and recently online sales topped the £500,000 mark. It now produces a range of wholefood protein shakes in a number of different natural

For more information about Purition visit the website www.purition.co.uk.

56

OCTOBER 2016

BUSINESS

Businesses back park and ride

A

business fundraising lunch held at Bridgnorth Rugby Club could now become an annual event.

Held in glorious weather in a marquee on the Edgar Davis Ground, the event was put on by the Bridgnorth Chamber of Commerce and the town’s rugby club.

Before sitting down for a three-course meal, the 140 attendees chatted informally over drinks to background music by members of the Bridgnorth Strummers. After the meal guest speaker Nigel Owens MBE, the international rugby referee, gave an entertaining talk.

Chamber of Commerce chairman Stephen Robbins said: “The event was a fundraiser for the chamber’s park and ride scheme, which now regularly draws 300 people to use it on a Saturday.

“The service is effective, popular and brings valuable new business into the town. I spoke to one person who used it recently and said it was fantastic, but that it also had cost him £700, as he spent that on furniture in the town.

“It was good to see so many business people at the event, which not only was a good social occasion, but also gave people plenty of opportunity to network. It was also great to see some big names attending such as Barclays Bank.

“We are grateful the rugby club supported the event, as they have done so much for the town with their success on the field.”

Shropshire Councillor William Parr attended the event and said he thought it had been of real benefit to the town: “The weather was good, the venue excellent and it was all about raising funds for the infrastructure of the town.

“It was also the ideal opportunity for local councillors and business people to get together in an optimistic environment.”

n Top: Karen Wood, Kirsty Hurst-

Knight, Ruth Thomas, Nerys Arch, Sarah Stevens and Paula Chainey n Left: Guest speaker was rugby referee Nigel Owens, who took charge of the 2015 World Cup final n Above: Shropshire Councillor William Parr with Town Councillor and Chamber of Commerce member Geoff Davies n Below, from left: Sarah Stevens and Luke McMullan; Councillors Ron Whittle and Carol Whittle; Chamber chairman Stephen Robbins and BRFC chairman Peter Parkes

57

OCTOBER 2016

www.buymelocal.co.uk

WORKING FOR YOU IN YOUR COMMUNITY

BEE Directory packs an extra punch

R

eviewmedia Ltd, publisher of your Shropshire Review magazine, has announced the launch of the District BEE Directory 2017 campaign.

Now in its 31st year of publication, the popular directory will be delivered by Royal Mail to 28,668 homes and businesses throughout south-east Shropshire during December. The directory lists hundreds of shops, services and local organisations and is produced in a handy booklet format that makes finding a local business quick and easy.

The new edition will now pack an extra punch in its ceaseless task of promoting local trade. This year saw the introduction of www.buymelocal.co.uk – an all-singing, all-dancing digital platform that makes the BEE Directory’s contact data, and much more besides, accessible on mobile phones and desktop computers 24/7.

“We’ve had an amazing response to the new website and all that it offers to both consumers and businesses,” said director Martin Edwards.

“2017 sees the cross-fertilisation of three fantastic promotions all linked through the one powerful brand of Buy Me Local – that’s our

BEE Directory, our website and the colourful product catalogue pages featured each month in Shropshire Review. Now we have something for everyone to suit most local promotional needs.”

If you run a local business you need to ensure that it is listed in the BEE. Many of the BEE’s clients such as The Real Bridgnorth Windows Ltd are testament to its effectiveness.

“We keep a copy at home and one at the office, ready and handy for all our local needs. As a local business it’s the only directory we want to be seen in and that’s because we get wonderful quality responses,” said Martyn Donnelly, the company’s director.

“The Bee is a great advertising investment,” he added.

Need a website for your business? Reviewmedia can offer you that too through its associate company, utilising unique Webpager technology and the benefits of being automatically linked in to the Buy Me Local platform too.

In difficult times you need proven effective advertising to stay ahead...

Give your business the boost it deserves by joining the biggest and best promotion of local trade in south-east Shropshire.

Telephone Paul Kirkpatrick on 01746 766848 or email pkirkpatrick@reviewmedia.com

Battle for title begins Bridgnorth has now been officially entered into the national Great British High Street (GBHS) competition.

Due to having a population of over 10,000 the town has had to be entered into the Large Market Town Category, and the wait is now on to see if it shortlisted.

The GBHS entry was put together by Sally Themans of Love Bridgnorth and Sarah Stevens of Buy Big In Bridgnorth, who worked with all relevant parties in the town to compile a 1,000 word document for the application.

Sally said: “We said that Bridgnorth is a thriving market town that sits on the River Severn and pointed out that the town � Sarah Stevens and Sally Themans have worked together on the entry has had to fight for its own identity being just down river from the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.

“We emphasised the importance of the various markets we have in the town and how it combines tourism with being a real place to live and work. We also highlighted the Park and Ride initiative launched by the Chamber of Commerce. The scheme has been a massive boost to businesses in the town and in its inaugural year is estimated to benefit traders by £100,000.”

The numerous retail initiatives launched in the town over recent years was also put into the application, as Sarah Stevens explained: “Businesses are very well supported in the town. We have the ‘Shop Local’ campaign that was launched for Christmas 2015 and now promotes late night shopping evenings. We also hope to introduce ‘pop up’ shops and art galleries that use empty premises, minimising any blank spaces in the town.”

Closing date for entries in the Great British High Street competition was 9 September and judging will last until mid-October when the category finalists are announced. The public will then be asked to vote for a winner, who will be given their award at a ceremony in December.

Reflecting on photo contest The judges made their choice, the entries were narrowed down to a final 10 and then it was up to the people of Bridgnorth to decide a winner.

Buy Big In Bridgnorth’s latest competition ‘Reflections of Bridgnorth’ asked people to submit a photo that showed what they loved about the town.

The competition drew 81 entries, from which a shortlist of 10 was chosen. The judging panel comprised of Terry Hawking (chairman of Bridgnorth Camera Club), Sue Tristram (The George), Maggie Rogers (Travel Wallet) and Jason Bradley (Beaman’s & Sons).

The 10 photos went on display in the library, with voting closing on 23 September. The winning photograph was due to be announced on 26 September and the photographer who took it will receive a £100 hamper from Beaman’s in Low Town, while the runner-up will receive a meal for two and a bottle of bubbly at The George pub.

The Under-11 category in the competition only yielded one entry, so the prize for that category (a £50 voucher from Little Monkeys) was donated as a raffle prize for The George’s Family Fun Day in aid of the Fleur Allen appeal, on 25 September.

THE BRIDGNORTH AND DISTRICT SHOPPING CATALOGUE

58

Light up your life! at L.W.Foxall

LARGE RANGE OF LIMITED STOCK IN OUR LIGHTING AND HOME DECOR SALE

Candle display lamp

(excluding candles) Large Was £49 NOW £39.99 Small Was £25 NOW £22

Various lampshades

Was £25 each

NOW £15 each

Golden sphere stemmed lamp

Was £39 NOW £29.99

Heart stemmed lamp

Was £38 NOW £25

Buddha ornament

Was £16 NOW £12

Cinema table lamp

Was £65 NOW 39.99 ONE ONLY Three light chandelier

Was £49.99 NOW £39.99 LIMITED STOCK

Floor lamp

Was £80 NOW £49.99

Mosaic effect goblet ornaments Large Was £22 NOW £18 Medium

Was £16 NOW £12 Mosaic effect lamp

Was £39 NOW £29.99

Small Large ornamental lamp

Was £13 NOW £9.99

Was £100 NOW £79.99

Buddha picture

Buy from L.W.FOXALL - 32 HIGH STREET, BRIDGNORTH WV16 4DF TEL - 01746 763442/762553 All offers subject to availability

Was £18 NOW £13

L.W. FOXALL

Est. 1961

Where quality and service is high and the prices are low

Go to www.buymelocal.co.uk for great local offers

Get Cosy

59

Plain Seat Pads

TWO PILLOWS

6 Colours; 16” wide; 15” Deep; 2” Thick Soft Chenille Fabric; Zipped for easy washing; Strong Ties; Foam Filled; Made in the UK.

ONLY

at Shropshire Linens

£10

WAS £7.99 each NOW £5.99 each

Box Pillow

1x Box Pillow. The unique design contours to your head and neck for ultimate comfort.

High Quality Cotton Cover; Non - Allergenic; Machine Washable; Piped Seams; SuperBounce Fibre Filled; Made in the UK

Luxury Hotel Pillows

2 x Luxury Hotel Pillows.

Super-bounce Fibre; Filling Non - Allergenic; Percale Cover; Machine Washable; Firmness Rating - Medium; Made in the UK.

WAS £10.00 NOW £8.00

WAS £15.00 NOW £10.00

We also offer...

MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS & BLINDS • • • •

Beautiful range of fabrics and trimmings Bed and household linens Cushions & covers Measuring and fitting service available

SHROPSHIRE LINENS

Available from SHROPSHIRE LINENS - 53 HIGH STREET BRIDGNORTH TEL - 01746 768288

Treat yourself to a new bed sale!

10% off

at Graham Hill

all bed and mattresses!

Zeal Bed

A Heat treated Continuous spring unit giving good support. The mattress is hand tufted with woollen tufts, and covered with a soft touch stretch fabric.

Additionally it benefits from an Air Flow Border System which improves air circulation within the mattress. Hypo Allergenic fillings come as a standard on this range of mattress.

*see online for other options

Aamira Orthopaedic Bed 4`6 Double Divan Set

Was £296.00 NOW £266.40 5`King Divan Set Was £382.00

*see online for other options

Alure Bed

NOW £343.80

4`6 Double Divan Set Was £562.00 NOW 5`King Divan Set Was £646.00 NOW

£505.80 £581.40 Ref: 14855

Ref: 14846

4`6 Double Divan Set

Was £327.00 NOW £294.30 5`King Divan Set

HURRY! OFFERS FINISH 31ST OCTOBER

Was £399.00 NOW £359.10 *see online for other options

Ref: 14848 Aristocrat Hypo Allergenic Bed A 1000 count, medium soft, pocket sprung mattress, with a fine looking classic luxury viscose fabric, tufted with woollen rosettes, finishing with 4 rows of hand side stitched border.

4`6 Double Divan Set Was £478.00 NOW £430.30 5`King Divan Set Was £562.00 NOW £505.80 *see online for other options

Ref: 14850

*see online for other options

Dream Gel 2000 Memory Foam Bed

4`6 Double Divan Set Was £814.00 NOW 5`King Divan Set Was £898.00 NOW

£732.60 £808.20 Ref: 14857

Buy from GRAHAM HILL FLOORING LTD - SALOP STREET, BRIDGNORTH TEL - 01746 764357

*see online for other options

Charisma Hypo Allergenic Bed

4`6 Double Divan Set Was £538.00 NOW 5`King Divan Set Was £634.00 NOW

£484.20 £570.60 Ref: 14851

Gr aham Hill Flooring Ltd.

THE BRIDGNORTH AND DISTRICT SHOPPING CATALOGUE

60

Crafted furniture & beautiful gifts from Old Mill Antiques Centre

20%

Two Seater Leather Chesterfield Settee

OFF

Was £1695 NOW £1356

20%

Two and a Half Seater Leather Chesterfield Settee

OFF

£1850 NOW £1480 Chesterfield Leather Club Armchair

Halo’s distinctive look is unique, giving you the choice and reassurance of furniture that is classic in style, durable, practical and will last for many years to come. With furniture for living, dining, bedroom and home office plus accessories and lighting to complement, you can create a Halo look throughout your home.

We only use the finest materials and develop our distinctive designs in-house, allowing us to create quality furniture that looks good but will also last. All our furniture is hand-crafted, making each piece unique. We use traditional techniques and tools which add to the overall quality and durability of our furniture. Over time our furniture will become part of your home.

The Chester is a true classic design piece and is a comfortable evolution of 19th century Chesterfield sofa styling.

Padding on the buttoned back and seat cushions, combined with an angled back ensure that this sofa offers a very comfortable sit.

Halo Mirror

8ft tall by 4ft 5in wide

Was £850 NOW £680

Was £1195 NOW £956

20% OFF

20% OFF

Professor chair

20%

Smaller chair

A stylish, unique occasional chair with lovely proportions and stylish rounded seat and arms. Also available in a 2 seater.

The perfect little accent chair to fill any space. Despite its petite design, the Professor vintage leather chair is extremely comfortable. Being compact it is easily placed in any room and therefore it is a real investment piece which can travel with you, fitting into hallways, bedrooms, kitchens and living spaces as you grow, change and move home.

Was £995 NOW £796

Was £675 NOW £540

Was £675 NOW £540

OFF

Downing Leather Wing Armchair Large Chair

A classic winged occasional chair to create a distinguished look in your home

Flea Market Leather Chair

Was £1195 NOW £956

One -

10% OFF 10%

OFF

West German Fat Lava Jug

One -

One One -

f collect of

10% 10% OFF

OFF

OFF

le

Was £345 now £310.50

10% 10% OFF

ab

Was £32 NOW £28.80

Victorian Botanist Glass oil lamp

le

In pink, black and white

f collect of

Oil Lamp

ab

Gozo Studio Vase

le

OFF

ab

10% 10% OFF

Was £65 NOW £58.50

Was £55 NOW £49.50

Was £75 NOW £67.50

f collect of

Circular log holder

Circa 1950/60

le

Hand painted orchard by Dorothy Ann

f collect of

ab

Crown Devon

Pair of late 19th century Satsuma Vases Circa 1880 –1990

Was £165 £148.50 for the pair

Available from OLD MILL ANTIQUES CENTRE - MILL STREET, BRIDGNORTH TEL - 01746 768 778 All offers subject to availability

10% OFF

Tall log holder

was £85 NOW £76.50

Go to www.buymelocal.co.uk for great local offers

61

Autumn Winter Frugi collection at Hopskotch

RIGHT:

Snuggle Baby Gift Set Grey Marl Breton / Croc

This beautiful Snuggle Baby Gift Set is ideal for a new arrival gift!

The gift set contains a fab grey marl breton striped footed dungaree with a colourful crocodile applique on the front and with poppers on the shoulders and at the crotch for easier dressing.

There is also a matching long sleeved green top and a fun grey marl breton striped hat with cute colourful crocodile spikes running along the top.

All are made from 100% super soft organic cotton, ideal for keeping little one warm and toasty this chilly season!

Little Skirt Leggings - Winter Rainbow These brand new super soft organic cotton Little Skirt Leggings are ideal for keeping all those little ones who love a good dance and twirl warm and snug this chilly season! In a stunning winter rainbow stripe this new design skirt, based on a summer skort, has integrated full length leggings underneath with an elasticated waistband for a fab, comfortable fit.

£39.00

£22.00

Little Snuggle Fleece In Happy Rainbow An absolute must have Frugi classic, this reversible little snuggle fleece is made from 100% organic cotton in a colourful happy rainbow stripe on one side and a super snuggly fleece on the other.

With a cosy hand warmer pocket on one side and a tomato red popper fastening which makes whipping it off and turning it inside out easy peasy!

ABOVE RIGHT:

Snuggle Baby Gift Set Pretty Pink Breton / Giraffe

These super cute tomato red Dylan dungarees, with their sweet embroidery on the front, will be a massive hit with babies this autumn!

Made from organic cord and fully lined with soft, contrasting blue organic cotton for extra warmth, with a large chest pocket, two side pockets, adjustable button up straps and button fastenings at the sides to make dressing time a breeze!

This beautiful Snuggle Baby Gift Set is ideal for a new arrival gift!

The gift set contains a gorgeous pretty pink breton striped footed dungaree with a sweet giraffe applique on the front with poppers on the shoulders and at the crotch for easier dressing.

There is also a matching long sleeved natural top and a fun pretty pink breton striped hat with cute ears and giraffe horns on the top.

All are made from 100% super soft organic cotton, ideal for keeping little one warm and toasty this chilly season!

£30.00

£39.00

Dylan Dungarees In Tomato / Tractor Design

£32.00

Annabelle Applique Top - Cornish Sea/Birdies

This gorgeous long sleeved Annabel Applique Top is made from scrumptious organic cotton and is perfect for keeping little ones warm on those chillier autumn days! In a stunning Cornish sea blue, this top has a sweet, colourful birdies applique on the front, pretty gathers and poppers at the back of the neck to help make dressing time a little bit easier.

£18.00

Available from HOPSKOTCH- 70 WHITBURN STREET, BRIDGNORTH TEL - 01746 769800 www.hopskotchbridgnorth.co.uk

Shop in Style! with Roobarb

AS SEEN ON TV

Make Up Eraser

Treat your pet

Mirror Made out of Magazines

The Make Up Eraser will remove make up easily with just warm water. It will even remove waterproof and smear-proof mascara, lipstick and even stage make-up. Suitable for all skin types, even for the most sensitive and troublesome skin. It will last for around 1000 washes, which will save you time and money.

with Oscar Pet Foods

The mirror surround is made from waste magazines tightly rolled and packed together with dramatic effect.

Any 3 treats for £10 (Save 15%)

Gluten-free dog treats made with low-fat ingredients. Ideal for sensitive stomachs.

350g Oscar Trios; 350g Low Fat Singles; 350g Yoghurt Snaps

£79

£16.99 please note: This proof is produced by a digital laser print process, or as

www.LoveRoobarb.co.uk

Great Ideas!

If you receive this proof by email, please check carefully for any alterations you might like to make and email back with any instructions.

Flamingo

with This That & Other If all is correct and you are happy to go ahead please confirm by email.

£11.99

Bag of nutritious food, storage bucket, bag of treats and measuring scoop

ALL FOR £5 Money-back off your first full order

Available from Oscar Pet Foods, Bridgnorth Call 01746 789495 or 07896309636

an electronic digital file if received by Buy from ROOBARB - a3guideWATERLOO TERRACE, email, to provide as accurate as possible to typographical content BRIDGNORTH 4EGof TEL - 01746 761061 and design WV16 elements. The limitations this process only provides an indication to colours used and therefore cannot be used as a colour correct proof of final published work.

Oscar Pet Foods Dog Starter Pack

up to 30% off selected items including our umbrella Italian designer clothing range Open 7 days. 10am-5:30pm

01746 761061

Visit us in our shop or online with free delivery!

3 Waterloo Terrace Bridgnorth WV16 4EG

Email lyn.higgins@oscars.co.uk

Love your Hair! with Hidden Jem’s

Cat cushion £12 PLEASE DO NOT DETACH THIS FROM THE ADVERT PROOF FORM TICK AND RETURN WITH YOUR SIGNED ADVERT PROOF FORM

� AMEND ADVERT AS SHOWN � ADVERTISEMENT CORRECT

I HAVE uNDERSTOOD THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS

�

£99

Alterations .......................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................... ..........................................................................................................................................................

The Cloud Nine Original Iron Multi award winning, it is the straightener of choice for celebrity stylists around the globe.

The innovative temperature control means you can style from a hair friendly 100 degrees to 200 degrees when only hot will do. The floating, super smooth, mineral infused plates and curved body allow you to straighten, curl, flick and wave without dragging or catching your hair.

Equestrian stool

£39

Was £139.99 Now £99.00 Ref: 20585

Buy from THIS, THAT & THE OTHER - 4 WATERLOO TERRACE, BRIDGNORTH & 10 BANK ST TEL - 07816 321737

Ot

Buy from HIDDEN JEM’S - 61 WHITBURN STREET, BRIDGNORTH TEL - 07672 518368

HAIR

E K A T O T E M TI N O I T AC

Make sure your business is in the

o.uk

buymelocal.c

Bridgnorth and

district

Connect with your customers Our advertisers often tell us that the Bee is their most reliable and effective way of gaining new enquiries at a local level With its huge distribution the Bee Directory actively helps us keep in touch with our clients across urban and rural communities. Like the Review, people hold it in high regard. They keep it and use it. So as a marketing tool, we find it really effective.

Ryan Davis Severn Edge Veterinary Group We have been using the Bee Directory for years now, it’s a solid form of advertising and we get results from it every year

Steve Shakespeare Wood Floor Restorations Ltd

2017

ide

al information gu

the definitive loc

h • Broseley • Alveley • Bridgnort al • Worfield ices in Albrighton • Shifn to shops and serv • Much Wenlock Mortimer • Highley Claverley • Cleobury

promotion of local trade in the area

Delivered by Royal Mail to

I have used the the Bee Directory for many years to promote my dog grooming business. I find without exception it is the only advertising I ever need.

Sally Small A Pampered Pooch The Bee has always been an essential part of our advertising plane. It puts us in front of our huge range of customers right across the area. It’s important for us that it reaches right into the heart of our rural communities as well as town dwellers and business people.

Neil Flannery Bridgnorth Tyre Centre

homes and business

throughout south east Shropshire

NOW WITH ADDED

The Bee Directory has helped to grow our business over many years. It continually proves itself as an effective way of gaining new customer enquiries. It’s also useful for our existing customers to know they can look up our number quickly and easily

Rob Hall Graham Hill Flooring Ltd I’ve tried all other forms of advertising but the Bee gives by far the best results time and time again

Darren Severn Satellite and Aerial Services I have been an advertiser in the Bee Directory for a number of years now and it works for me. I would recommend any small business to give it a try

Les Cordingley Les Cordingley Windows Ask us about our online premium package, which includes: • Detailed company profile • Photo gallery and logo • Update page through Facebook • Link to your website and social media • Higher ranking on category pages • Enhanced visual search results.

PHONE 01746 766848 and speak to our advertising department today!

www.buymelocal.co.uk

63

OCTOBER 2016

MARKETPLACE

www.buymelocal.co.uk

WORKING FOR YOU IN YOUR COMMUNITY BUILDING CONTRACTORS For all your property maintenance call:

Extensions & Refurbs Plastering & Rendering Pitched & Flat Roofing 01746 767694 07843 378383 rjconstruction@live.co.uk

CARPENTERS/JOINERS

KM JOINERY

C.D.I. ELECTRICAL SERVICES BRIDGNORTH

GROUNDWORKS

ALL ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

Foundations Driveways Landscapes

HIGH QUALITY SPECIALIST JOINERY

• Doors • Windows • Sash windows • Staircases • Green oak porches

ELECTRICIAN

DRIVEWAYS

www.kmjoinery.net 01746 718265/07870 640749

t. 01746 767786 m. 07875 222 869

ENQUIRIES@KM-JOINERY.COM

lazergroundworks@live.co.uk

FUNERAL SERVICES

CLEAN RELIABLE SERVICE

Free quotations & friendly advice

NO CALL-OUT CHARGE

� Fuse

board upgrades lighting � CCTV Systems � Shower installs � PAT Testing

� Security

M 07454993095 H 01746 552138

email: cdielectrical@live.com

PLASTERING

PLUMBING & HEATING

HAYNES PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 30 Years experience City & Guilds Qualified

01746 767 727 07776 196897 C.S.C.S Certified Clean & Tidy

• Competitive Prices/ Friendly & Reliable • Boiler Upgrades/Full Heating Systems • Bathrooms/Wet Rooms • Underfloor Heating • Renewable Energy Installations • All Plumbing and Gas Work

T: 07734 851574 www.haynesplumbing.co.uk

ROOFING SERVICES • Lime mortar pointing • Rubber flat roofing

Bridgnorth Roofing Services

Perry & Phillips

Local friendly firm covering all aspects of roof repairs or full re-roof work

Funeral Directors 4 Underhill Street, Bridgnorth Shropshire WV16 4BB

Telephone 01746 765255 24-hour service Funeral prepayment plan � Monumental masonry service � Written estimates always given

Specialising in Lime mortar, Heritage, conservation and listed buildings • Flat roofs • Tiling • Slating • Insurance specialist • All types of leadwork • Upvc soffit fascias

s.co.uk .bridgnorthroofer

1 DETAILS VISIT www b: 07454 73589 FOR FURTHER

Mo

Call for a free quote

TOILETS, PORTABLE

OVEN CLEANING

�

01746 712602

�

www.theshropshirefuneralplan.com

ES

M

www.perryandphillipsfunerals.com

OB L I

24 HOUR SERVICE

64

OCTOBER 2016

COMPETITIONS

Win tickets to the

FESTIVE GIFT FAIR AT THE NEC

J

oin in the fun for the 21st year of the fabulous Festive Gift Fair! The biggest and best Christmas shopping event returns to the NEC, Birmingham, from 10-13 November.

Christmas starts here with plenty of choice, unique gifts, and a fun and easy shopping day out. For their 21st year they have a whole new line-up of fantastic live music to entertain you through the day.

Browse 350 stalls overflowing with fabulous decorations for the home and present ideas for all – from babies to teenagers, parents to grandparents, for him, for her and even the pets!

There’s something for everyone at the Festive Gift Fair and to get your inspiration flowing, we’ve highlighted just a few of our favourite new gift ideas …

For foodies…

A set of nine specially tuned champagne glasses with glass wands for playing musical magic together after Christmas dinner! The ultimate dinner party game – Amuzika.

Handcrafted, good proper fudge, great to share after dinner or give as a present in a ‘create your own gift box’. Over 25 flavours from Rhubarb & Custard, Cherry Bakewell, Heather Honey and even Irn Brun! – Ochil Fudge Pantry.

Make your own cider: Simply add the supplied yeast and leave for 48 hours – Victors Drinks.

For the men in your life…

The spirit of football is captured by photographer David Shields. Unique photographic montages of football stadiums, from Arsenal to Birmingham City and many more.

Flight simulator experience vouchers available for Boeing 737 & 747 – Flight Simulators Midlands.

Highly original Map cufflinks made from vintage maps and albums. Choose the location that is ‘special’ to you – Mia Mia Jewels.

For the ladies in your life…

Stylish and colourful faux fur capes, gilets and jackets – Superfurs.

Handmade, luxurious natural skincare and home fragrance. Choose a scent to match her mood, from lavender to patchouli, and geranium to eucalyptus – Valentte.

Treat her to a classy fashion watch by leading designers, Emporio Armani and Marc Jacobs – A2Z Timebrand.

For trendy teens…

There’s only ONE DIRECTION – as the biggest boy band in the world, they can adorn your teenager’s bed with a fleece blanket throw – Linen Ideas.

Get ready to be blown away by the amazing sound of the I-Bomb Cobble – a speaker that fits into the palm of your hand and works 10 metres from your Bluetooth device – Pizzazz Retail.

Want to be different? One-of-a-kind handmade watches with changeable fabric straps and colourful faces – Buckle and Cog.

For the little ones…

Magic and sparkle for fairies of all ages. Fairy Goodies sell fairy wings, tutus, fairy dust, fairy gardens…

A fun alternative twist to the traditional advent calendar, buy a ‘Countdown To Christmas’ activity calendar which has things to make and do to keep your kids busy as they wait for Santa – Illustries.

Have fun creating their very own name plaque using a clever mosaic alphabet kit – Teresa Mills Mosaics.

We have 10 pairs of tickets to give away to the Festive Gift Fair. To enter, tell us: How old is the fair this year?

Advance adult tickets are priced from just £8.50.

Book now by calling The Ticket Factory on 0844 581 0808/0809 or online at www.theticketfactory.com (£2.50 fulfilment fee for postal bookings. £1.50 for E-tickets).

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OCTOBER 2016

COMPETITIONS

WIN A £20 BOOK TOKEN Check the advertisements in the rest of the magazine to find where our ‘Local Bee’ (pictured above) is hidden. Entry to competitions can be made online through our website at www.shropshirereview.co.uk or by filling in the entry form or sending on a postcard to: SPOT THE BEE, Reviewmedia Ltd, Media House, Building 9, Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HR. First correct entry drawn will win a £20 book token

WIN A WORKSHOP WITH FRENCH GREY TALES Sarah Truswell is a Shropshire creative who has recently taken the plunge to leave corporate employment to open the very first franchise of established retailer, French Grey Tales, in Bridgnorth.

French Grey Tales (FGT) is not only an official stockist for Liberty of London Art Fabrics, but it is also home to unique quirky gifts and Sarah runs creative workshops from her studio space above the shop.

Sarah’s beautifully designed shop can be found on Bank Street in Bridgnorth so now you don’t have to travel to London to stock up on Liberty fabrics, they’re right here in Shropshire, all available by the metre, half metre and fat quarters. And fear not if you’re not a confident seamstress, from late September FGT will offer a range of sewing workshops – right from the basics of getting to know your machine, to dress making where you can get your hands on the Liberty prints.

Sarah already has a following in Bridgnorth – an ever-growing custom base who love to have a giggle with the LOVEFGT homeware range, all designed and made

by French Grey Tales. The range features naughty mugs, cushions, framed prints, tea towels, tea pots and stationery for those who have a cheeky side. A bespoke, personalised service is available too, so you can have your own random sayings printed on to any of their products.

Sarah is ensuring that a visit to French Grey Tales offers all sorts of ways for you to make your home pretty, whether you want to get your hands dirty or have someone else do it for you! They are proud stockists of Autentico Chalk Paint, which comes in over 150 different colours and four different finishes including Vintage chalk paint, Versante Matt and Eggshell –designed to be used both indoors and out, with built-in water resistance and UV filter, and Velvet wall paint for a superb matt finish. If painting isn’t your thing, Sarah and her team will paint your items for you.

For those of you who really want to get creative, check out the huge range of workshops available including chalk painting level one and two, lampshade making, candle making, footstools, woodwork and much more to come. Each workshop runs roughly once per month and can be booked via the store, website or app (search French Grey Tales in the app store).

French Grey Tales is all about sharing knowledge with their customers – pop into the store on Bank Street and you’ll get a whole raft of advice from owner Sarah. Join their Facebook group ‘French Grey Tales Making Things Pretty’ and you’ll be joining a community of over 6,000 members all sharing their own painting achievements, advice and support to other members.

French Grey Tales has offered one lucky reader the chance to win a workshop of their choice up to the value of £35, or top up to attend a longer workshop. The workshop must be taken within six months of winning.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply tell us: Which range of fabrics can you find in the store? www.frenchgreytales.com

Enter our competitions online at www.shropshirereview.co.uk

Competitions entry form Festive Gift Fair

French Grey Tales

Spot the Bee

name ............................................................................ address ........................................................................ ...................................................................................... ...................................................................................... ................................................ postcode ................... phone number ............................................................. email .............................................................................

Competition rules. Closing date for all entries is 21/10/16. In the event of a tie the first correct entries out of the hat will be the winners. Send your entries to Reviewmedia Ltd, Media House, Building 9, Stanmore Industrial Estate, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV15 5HR. For full terms and conditions regarding competitions please refer to www.shropshirereview.co.uk

COMPETITION WINNERS AUGUST 2016 - Steam rally: Sandra Webb, Bridgnorth Park Hall Countryside Experience: Martin Hughes, Shrewsbury; Eileen Iles, Oswestry; Wendy Hawley, Ackleton Spot the Bee: Bob Clarke, Oswestry

66

OCTOBER 2016

LAST WORD

AND FINALLY...

Jobs for the boys and girls

A

Alison Ashmore sk a child what they want to be when they grow up, and you might start hearing some strange answers.

Apparently the fresh-faced fouryear-olds who started school this term will have a whole new world of jobs available to them when it’s their turn to earn a living. A group of people at Microsoft, who clearly had no real work to be getting on with, have devised a list of careers which don’t exist now but, they say, will in a decade or so.

So forget dentist and plumber.

Our youngsters will be taking their pick from careers as varied as space junk archaeologist, memory storage specialist (apparently we’ll all be able to store our memories through software-brain interfaces) and rewilding strategist, who will reintroduce plants and animals to regions where they have become extinct.

Then there will be battery innovators, human parts designers and virtual habitat designers.

Don’t fancy those? How about being an ethical technology advocate, to cope with the dawn of the age of the robot; or freelance biohacker, which isn’t as suspicious as it sounds but will involve working on everything from new vaccines to genetic

modification (OK, that does sound suspicious).

If tomorrow’s careers leave you bewildered, there are opportunities out there now which have me scratching my head. I mean, what on earth is an horizon scanning officer? I imagine myself like Demelza in Poldark, standing gazing out to sea for hours on end. I don’t know what I’m looking for, but it sounds like an intriguing and romantic job.

The one I particularly wanted, however, was Head of Knowledge.

Evolution took millions of years getting us to stand up straight; iPhones are reversing the trend in a single generation I can’t remember who was advertising for one of those, but I’d love to sit in my private office, Head of Knowledge sign on the door, with people asking me who sang Windmills of Your Mind and what the flag of Bolivia looks like.

Aside from the obvious ones such as chocolate taster, another job I’d really love is coming up with names for paint colours. I’m a sucker for a paint name. Call it Cappuccino or Melted Mocha, and I want it on my walls. Beige just won’t do it any more. It’s marketing genius.

It’s the job of marketing people to put a glossy spin on things and that goes for their own titles, too.

A marketing director’s job was genuinely advertised as Wizard of Light Bulb Moments while a Head

of Creative was a Dream Alchemist.

These days, companies wanting to appear cool and edgy describe receptionists as Directors of First Impressions; project managers are Scrum Masters; even temps are getting in on the act – meet the OnDemand Executive.

It’s all a load of baloney, designed to make the drudgery of office life seem sexy and exciting, but I suppose coming up with these names keeps someone (a Moniker Guru?) in a job.

The list of future potential careers, however, does highlight how much technology is changing modern life. It seems our bodies are also going to need to adapt to keep up.

There’s a widely recognised phenomenon now called ‘Text Neck’. This is the ache you feel from constantly looking down at a device; as the neck bends forwards and down, the weight of the head on the cervical spine increases.

Apparently it can be the same as carrying an eight-year-old around on your neck for several hours each day. Evolution took millions of years getting us to stand up straight; iPhones are reversing the trend in a single generation.

Also on the rise is Text Thumb, a type of repetitive strain injury caused by too much time on games consoles as well as smartphones.

Scientists will tell you how important having opposable thumbs has been to the development of our species. I don’t think we are showing them the respect they deserve, wearing them out playing Lego Star Wars on the PS4.

Still, it seems those are the types of skills our youngsters are going to need if they are to thrive in the Brave New World of work. Rather them than me.

Now, how do I save this document?

email: aashmore@reviewmedia.com

OCTOBER 2015

1

SIMPLY SIMPLY CLEVER CLEVER SIMPLY SIMPLY CLEVER CLEVER

PIECE OF CAKE SERVICING… AND PEACE OF MIND PRICING. ŠKODA. Servicing with added value.

At ŠKODA we’ve fixed the prices of all our servicing and maintenance jobs, making it super simple to get superior ŠKODA servicing (try saying that quickly). All this for a budget-busting, easy-peasy price. It’s like having your cake and eating it.

Servicing MOT

Minor service

Available only on the UK mainland

£39

All models

Major service

Every 12 months or 10,000 miles

All models

Every 24 months or 20,000 miles

£149

£269

All models

Maintenance Front brake pads

Rear brake pads

Brake fluid change

Citigo/Fabia

£115

Citigo/Fabia

£115

Other models

£125

Other models

£125

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£145

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£145

£52

All models

4x4 transmission oil change £78

All models

Front brake pads & discs Citigo/Fabia

£225

Other models

£235

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£275

Rear brake pads & discs Citigo/Fabia

£225

Other models

£235

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£275

Battery excluding Stop/Start

DSG oil change £175

All models

AdBlue Top up All AdBlue models

£1.50 per litre

Citigo/Fabia

£110

Clutch

Other models

£115

Citigo/Fabia

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£135

Other models

£539

Citigo/Fabia

£335

4x4

£659

Other models

£385

£459

Cambelt change*

Battery including Stop/Start Citigo/Fabia

£189

Other models

£199

vRS (Fabia/Octavia)

£199

Cambelt & waterpump* Aircon service All models

£75

Citigo/Fabia

£435

Other models

£485

*Includes cambelt, tensioners and rollers as required.

We offer a collection and delivery service from Telford, Bridgnorth, Shrewsbury and surrounding areas.

Faintree ŠKODA

Stafford Park 1, Telford, Shropshire TF3 3BD

01952 204999

www.faintreeskoda.co.uk

For ŠKODA vehicles 3 years (from first MOT) up to 10 years old, excluding V6 models. Simply Fixed is available to customers at participating ŠKODA retailers only.

All prices are (where applicable) inclusive of standard parts, labour, oil and VAT and come with a two-year parts and labour warranty. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Further terms and conditions apply, please ask your ŠKODA retailer for details.

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13/09/2016 16:03