Teme Valley Times Aug/Sept 2022

What! No Banks?

Lloyds Bank have stated that they plan to close branches in Bromyard and Cleobury Mortimer. Bromyard is set to close on October 24th and Cleobury on January 12th, 2023. If these closures go ahead, as looks likely, it will mean that there will be no banks in either Bromyard or Cleobury. Fortunately both towns have Post Offices which can handle a range of bank transactions.

It has already been decided that Barclays Ludlow will close on August 26th, and scheduled closures in the surrounding area include Barclays branches in Bridgnorth and LedburyBridgnorth on August 26th and Ledbury on October 5th. Philip Dunne, MP for the Ludlow constituency, which includes Cleobury Mortimer and Bridgnorth, has previously written to Barclays about the Ludlow and Bridgnorth closures. He has now written to the Chief Executive of Lloyds in protest at plans to close Cleobury Mortimer’s only bank.

Mr Dunne said, “I am deeply disappointed to learn that Lloyds has written to customers explaining it plans to close this branch in the New Year. I have asked to meet the relevant decision makers in an attempt to persuade them to maintain the branch, not least as this is the last bank in the town.

I have long championed the importance in maintaining a vibrant local economy of essential local services in all our rural market towns, including banking and cash handling for businesses and individuals alike. While I accept that many people have become accustomed to use payment services on their devices, many elderly and vulnerable people in our community do not and are unlikely to be able to do so. Local businesses will be particularly concerned about maintaining night safe deposit facilities, as well as cash and other faceto-face services for individuals in Cleobury Mortimer. I am urging Lloyds to reverse its decision.”

Shropshire Councillors in Cleobury Mortimer have also expressed their concerns. Cllr Gwilym Butler commented, “I

am very disappointed by Lloyds decision to close the last remaining bank in the town. It is now vital that we maintain the remaining services including the Post Office where many banking services can be undertaken.”

Cllr Simon Harris added, “It is really disappointing that Lloyds is turning its back on its Cleobury customer base. I sincerely hope that they make every effort to ensure that local businesses and charities have the ability to deposit their takings and those who rely on in-person services can continue to access Lloyds banking.”

General Production Assistant Wyre Pie Company

This multi role position will include:

1) Assisting with the baking and packing of our pies and ready meals

2) Assisting our butchery, production and kitchen teams

3) Serving the general public at our retail Butchery Counter

4) Preparing retail and wholesale orders

5) Assisting with packaging and labelling products

Full training will be given. A high level of food hygiene and cleanliness will be required. Working hours are flexible but applicant needs to be aware that we are producing 7 days a week.

You will be able to follow recipes and instructions, show forward thinking and have the ability to work on your own and as part of a team.

A strong work ethic will be needed in this fast operating environment. Pay to be discussed.

Call in or drop a CV in at our office: Unit 6, Clarke's Meadow, Tenbury Wells Business Park, Bromyard Road, Tenbury Wells WR15 8FA or phone 01584 811196.

Tenbury Millennium Orchard

Last winter and spring were a busy time at Tenbury’s community orchard. Scions (buds or shoots to be used in grafting) were obtained from Wade Muggleton and the Teme Valley varieties Dewdlip Seedling and Jones’s Seedling were successfully grafted. They will be planted out in the orchard this coming winter, bringing the collection of apple varieties to approximately 50.

Last year Wade published his book ‘The Orchard Book’, distilling 20 years of know-how into a practical handbook to help you plan, plant and maintain your garden or field orchard. In the book Tenbury’s Millennium Orchard gets a mention plus a photograph of the orchard’s pop-up shop.

An apple tree (Winston) was planted in memory of Mr Peter Bevis who did so much for the orchard right from its conception and another tree (Laxtons Superb) was planted to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. This spring a nursery bed was completed. It contains cordon, column, step over and espalier apple trees and a small experimental stool bed has been dug so that root stocks can be grown.

The U3A food and farming group came to visit and were shown around and treated to some appleTeme fruit juice afterwards. They were most impressed with all the work done by the volunteers to maintain the orchard’s appearance.

A new small bed has been dug and will be planted with Pippin varieties in column form this winter. The orchard has a new glossy information card, available

from Tenbury TIC, sponsored by appleTeme who small batch process hand-picked local heritage apples to produce flavoursome juices.

The orchard is open 24/7 and visitors and groups are welcome. For more information contact wilcockcharlie@gmail.com

Due to business expansion, an exciting opportunity to join our friendly team.

From left: Committee members Bridget Thomas, Jane Yardley and Linda Ricketts with the newly-planted Laxtons Superb for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Philip Dunne MP outside Lloyds’ Cleobury Mortimer branch

Lloyds Bank in Bromyard

Barclays Bank in Ludlow

Little Hereford Fete

Saturday 13th August, 2pm - 4.30pm

Little Hereford Golden Anniversary Fete, celebrating 50 years of the Fete held in the historic and atmospheric setting of Easton Court, on the A456. Dog Show starting at 2.45 - obedience and novelty classes (just turn up in good time with your dog.)

Tenbury Town Band. Refreshments. Tombola, Coconut Shy, etc. Stalls open at 2pm : Mammoth Bric a Brac, Cakes, Plants, Nearly New, Books. Grand Draw, win £100!

Admission: Adults £1, children free. There's something for everyone!

CLOWS TOP VILLAGE FETE

SATURDAY AUG 20th 11am - 4pm, Adults £1, Children free.

Free parking, free bouncy castle, falconry display, novice dog agility comp, vintage vehicles, bar, books, tombola, cakes, Brian's pork baps, jewellery, plants, shoot for goal, and more!

SATNAV DY14 9HG

SUNDAY FUND12:00noon OG SHOW DONKEYRIDES SUMMER TEAS MALVERNCHASE BRASSBAND CHILDREN’S GAMES

Sessions will take place at The Core, Hereford from 1st - 5th August, 10am3pm daily. Total cost £50 (support available to cover transport costs for Teme Valley families). Contact 07846 891674 for more information and booking details.

Pudleston Flower Festival

Previous Flower Festivals always make the trip to Pudleston worthwhile, even if you are only a ‘Day Tripper’! The route may not be well-known, but surely ‘We Can Work It Out’?

The organisers sent us the following about this year’s ‘The Beatles’ event. “Yes it’s back with the Fab Four! We will ‘Get back to where we belong’ with the return of Pudleston’s Flower Power Flower Festival. We thought we would remember this, Sir Paul McCartney’s 80th year, with a celebration in floral displays of his time in The Beatles. There will be the usual fun to be had with stalls, refreshments and vintage vehicles to see. Make a date in your diary for the 13th and 14th of August, 10am to 5pm on both days. Get a ‘ticket to ride’ and take the ‘long and winding road’ to our door at St. Peter’s, Pudleston. It will be something to ‘twist and shout’ about. Why not come along….go on, ‘Let it be’”

Far Forest ShowFar Forest Show

This year attractions include a Vintage Circus with Mr Alexander’s Travelling Show: magic, juggling, illusion, unicycling and wonder, choreographed to vintage Jazz music!

Other attractions include The Quack Pac (Avian Flu permitting), Zennor’s Dancers; fun dog show; craft fair; classic vehicles; horticulture show; pony rides; art exhibition; kids’ zone with fun bus, inflatables, children’s fair rides; wildlife displays, and tractor trailer rides.

Live music by Tenbury Town Band, Innocent Criminals, Nicole Sherwood, Mice in a Matchbox, Hot Space, Jayne

Peters Band, Macy O, Sparky and Sprite, and the Cleobury Concert Band and unique gifts from makers in the craft fair marquee and many outside traders; cream teas in the pavilion; and speakers on the Home and Garden stage.

Visitors can bring picnics but a wide variety of food can be found in the food court, including hog roast, Thai, steak, sweet and savoury crepes and pizza.

There’s a licensed bar and camping is £10 a night on the showground. Gates open 10am each day, tickets are £6 (adult) or £2 (age 5-15).

More details at www.farforestshow.co.uk

See Eleanor Rigby’s gravestone in the churchyard

LOCAL

This section is aimed at

For

FENCING

Agricultural, equine and domestic. Over 25 years experience. Free estimates. Contact Neil Bradley Call 07929 273744 Or 01584 881484

email

please

C.A.STACK FLAT ROOFING

CROFT CARPENTRY

For all your carpentry needs including joinery and property maintenance. Call Andy 07875 338193 or 01584 890123 or email croftcarpentry@yahoo.co.uk www.croftcarpentry.co.uk

TEME VALLEY CLEARANCES

House, garage, shed & business clearances. Removals & rubbish disposal. We also buy and sell furniture and other items.

Based in Tenbury Wells, covering Worcestershire, Shropshire & Herefordshire. Waste Carriers Licence.

RYAN PARKES: 07951 666 877

DELIVERING FRESH COTTESWOLD MILK IN TRADITIONAL GLASS BOTTLES

MAY WE HAVE THE PLEASURE OF DELIVERING TO YOU? Milk also available in 1 litre & 2 litre polybottles at competitive prices for homes & businesses. Please call or email us to arrange a delivery or if you require further information.

01584 811857 info@temedairy.co.uk Teme Dairy Ltd, Tenbury Wells Business Park

email: shaunbowen8@gmail.com

BODEN & SON DELIVERIES

Supplying Cleobury Mortimer and surrounding areas with doorstep deliveries of Mawley Milk, fresh local bread, fruit & vegetables from the market, wild bird feed and many other items. Please contact us for further information.

Tel 01584 891550, mobile 07968 328312 email n.bowden30@gmail.com

07874

01584

EARPLUGS - Free UK delivery

Over 40 types in stock, corded & noncorded, rubber or foam, small packs or large, for work or leisure.

Not sure what you want? Try one of our TestPacks: foam, or rubber, or push-in. For more information and photos, please visit www.earplugsbypost.com

‘A Tenbury Tale’ at The Regal

A lot of Tenbury Wells history was packed into this hour-long performance by students from the Regal School of Creative Arts on Saturday 23rd July. Two performances took place; a matinée at 3pm and an evening repeat at 6.30pm. Written and produced by Dr Mia Gordon, ‘A Tenbury Tale’ is basically an abridged history of Tenbury, devised from historical documents, and focusing on significant happenings during the last 2,000 years.

Beginning with Caratacus and his run-in with the Romans, mention was made of a Tenbury Castle. Normans and Crusaders followed, with news of the first bridge across the Teme. Not surprisingly, floods were a regular feature during the performance, which blended a series of vignettes with fun characters, good pace and strong choral numbers. Plus, of course, an unending flow of interesting facts about Tenbury!

We encountered Oliver Cromwell, Charles 1st, Lord and Lady Pytts from Kyre House who employed Capability Brown to rework their grounds, and Mr Dadford who was associated with the building of the Leominster Canal. Thomas Telford made a brief appearance with his idea for new cast iron arches to widen the old Teme bridge.

There were repeated ‘recruiting’ scenes calling for men to come and fight; first Napoleon, then Kaiser Bill, then Hitler and finally to join the Falklands conflict. A nice touch was the reference to 2016, when women could take up the call to fight. First and Second World War memorial vignettes were movingly staged.

The social effects of bad harvests in the 1800’s bringing poverty, the influence of the Industrial revolution, and Princess Victoria’s visit to the town were covered.

The town’s Spa history brought us the characters of Mr Godson, Dr Davis of Presteigne and mention of Dr Granville and his celebrated book on the Spas of England.

Other characters and events mentioned were; the building of the workhouse in Tenbury, William Mantle’s hanging for sheep stealing, Sir Edward Goff and his schools and the creation, by Mr Robson of Craven Arms, of Tenbury’s Cinema, The Regal, at a cost of £12,000.

Mention of Glenn Miller gave opportunity for dancing on stage, as did The Beatles’ 1963 visit to Tenbury. A tribute to Peter Slade, arguably the father of Drama Therapy, informed us that he set up his first therapy centre locally in 1940.

The floods of 2007, 2008 and 2020 were the final element of the show, with a lovely rendition of Simon and Garfunkel’s song ‘Bridge Over Troubled Waters’. Unsurprisingly, after this hour-long gallop through history, the performers received an enthusiastic response from the audience at the curtain call.

The Regal School of Creative Arts (RSoCA) is a dedicated Singing, Dancing and Acting school with lessons on Sunday mornings at the Regal in Tenbury.

The Georgians

Princess Victoria (R) visits Tenbury wells

Recruiting for War

Goff’s School vignette

Women can join the ranks to go fight in war

Tenbury Royal British Legion - an Appeal

by Jim Keating - Branch Secretary

Most people know the old adage ‘old soldiers never die, they just fade away’. This saying could certainly be applied to the Tenbury Wells & District Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), where the branch is in danger of fading away due to the age and infirmity of many of the members.

This problem needs to be addressed and it is hoped that the people of Tenbury will be able to help stop the Branch’s decline before it becomes too late. For those who know little about the RBL, often referred to simply as ‘the Legion’, here are a few background facts.

After the First World War there was massive unemployment in the UK. More than six million men and women had served in the war and almost two million of those who returned had suffered some kind of disability, many being permanently disabled. An organisation to look after the interests and welfare of those returned from the war, their families and the War Widows was clearly required and Field Marshall Earl Haig was instrumental in persuading four separate national organisations, all supporting ex-servicemen, to unite.

This they did on May 15th 1921, with the formation of the British Legion. 1921 also saw the Poppy adopted by the Legion as a symbol of Remembrance and in 1922 the first Poppy Factory was opened in London, employing 40 disabled veterans. The number of Poppy Factories has grown since then and many more disabled veterans are now employed in them, producing millions of poppies, poppy wreaths and other Poppy products.

Over the years the Legion has lobbied for legislation for Service and ex-Service personnel

and War Widows and provided facilities for care, respite and rehabilitation, the ‘Battleback’ Centre at Lilleshall, near Telford, being a good example of this. Locally the Tenbury Branch helps veterans or their widows requiring assistance and has recently provided an electric wheelchair for a veteran in his mid-nineties who wishes to maintain his independence and ability to get out into the community.

The Royal British Legion is the Nation’s lead at Remembrance time, organising such annual events as the Festival of Remembrance, the Remembrance Parade at the London Cenotaph and the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey. It also established the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas in Staffordshire which, if you have not yet managed to get there, you should try to do so. It is an incredible place and well worth a day’s visit. Here in Tenbury we are appealing for younger and fitter males and females to join the Branch to swell our declining ranks, thus allowing us to continue as a contributing and participating asset to the town and its activities. For instance we require a smart and fit person to become our Union Standard Bearer for ceremonial occasions and to lead any parades through Tenbury. Training will be given as required. We also need someone with parade and drill experience (and the ability to make themselves heard) to take on the role of Parade Marshall.

The annual fee to be a Legion member is currently £19. No previous service in the Armed Forces is required, simply a commitment to become an active participating member of this fine charitable organisation, thus keeping the spirit of service and Remembrance alive in Tenbury. We meet in

the large back room of the Fountain Inn at 7.30pm on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Not every meeting is a business one.

We also have speakers, get involved in other activities and have our Christmas Dinner in December. Should you wish to come to a

meeting to meet members and enjoy the company please do so. We have sandwiches and chips and socialise after the meeting. For further information please contact the Branch Secretary, Jim Keating on 01584 819961 or email jmktng@aol.com

Falklands War 40th Anniversary

On April 2nd 1982, Argentine forces invaded the British overseas territory of the Falkland Islands some 8,000 miles away from the UK in the South Atlantic. Argentina assumed that, because of the great distance, Britain would not try to defend the Falklands by force. However, the British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, responded on 5th April by sending a naval task force of some 130 vessels.

Lasting 74 days, the conflict was the first military action that utilised all elements of the British Armed Forces since WW2. The fighting was fierce and bloody and 255 British personnel lost their lives defending the Falklands: 86 were Royal Navy, 124 Army, 27 Royal Marines, 6 Merchant Navy, 4 Royal Fleet Auxiliary and 8 Hong Kong sailors. Seven ships were also lost to enemy action and nine aircraft shot down. Some 2,500 people were wounded, many of them receiving life-changing injuries. The conflict also led to the deaths of three Falkland islanders and 649 Argentine service personnel.

The Argentine forces surrendered at Port Stanley on 14th June 1982 and, 40 years on to the day, members of the Tenbury Wells Branch of the Royal British Legion and Tenbury Wells Branch of the Royal Naval Association gathered at St Mary’s church, Tenbury, for a wreath-laying ceremony and a short service, taken by the Rev Mark Inglis. This was a particularly poignant occasion for the RBL and the RNA as they remembered a Tenbury man, Private Craig Jones of 3rd Battalion Parachute Regiment, who was killed in action on June 13th, 1982, in the fierce fighting for Mount Longdon.

Craig’s father Richard Jones, a former Mayor of Tenbury, is a member of Tenbury RBL. He and his wife Pamela laid a wreath at the War Memorial, and two of Craig’s uncles, Chris and Trevor Jones, both members of the RNA, laid a family wreath in memory of Craig.

Chris St Clair, Tenbury RBL Chairman, and Jeff Aston, Chairman of the Tenbury RNA, laid wreaths on behalf of their respective organisations.

Richard and Pamela Jones laid a wreath in memory of Craig

Members of Tenbury RBL at a VJ Day Remembrance service

A new hub, named ‘The CO-LAB’, was opened at Kidderminster Hospital on July 1st by local MP Mark Garnier, for use by hospital employees and partner healthcare organisations to help deliver Integrated Care. The opening took place on the day that NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group was dissolved and the new NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Board was established. The multi-disciplinary space will enable healthcare professionals to work with new and emerging digital technologies and it has in-person meeting and video conferencing facilities. Other amenities include a sensory pod, which offers a multi-sensory virtual reality (VR) experience to support mental health and well-being and

Ashley’s

a portable VR headset for chronic pain relief and anxiety. Commenting on the official opening of The CO-LAB, Mark Garnier, MP for Wyre Forest (which includes Rock) said, “Technology is at the heart of transforming health and social care services and is a key part of the Government’s ambitious plans to drive medical breakthroughs and improve patient care. Digital innovation is clearly fundamental to the new way of working, and it’s exciting for the local area that The CO-LAB will be at the forefront in nurturing ground breaking healthcare developments.”

It is hoped the CO-LAB will provide a unique space for NHS teams, local businesses, schools and universities to get together with technology providers so they can explore, collaboratively, how digital technology can transform the delivery of patient care.

Tenbury Flood Defences Shortfall

In July the Environment Agency issued a statement saying:

“We are committed to developing a flood risk management scheme for Tenbury Wells to reduce flood risk from the River Teme and Kyre Brook. The scheme remains complex and challenging, and we are continuing to explore opportunities to reduce capital costs through partnership working, design modification and value engineering to achieve an efficient affordable solution. All partners, including Worcestershire County Council and Malvern Hills District Council, are committed to developing a viable scheme.

“We are working hard to bridge the current funding gap - it is estimated that the scheme will cost £9.8m whereas the present funding stands at £6.6 million. It is hoped that a final design will form part of a planning application submission in late 2022 and that if all funding and approvals are in place we aim to start construction in spring 2023, and finish in spring 2025.

“The flood scheme will be operated by the community. A number of properties within Tenbury have been identified as potentially benefiting from Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures. These properties are at risk of flooding but not directly protected by

Tenbury Pool UpdateTenbury Pool Update

The trustees of Tenbury Community Pool explained that “The costs of operating a leisure facility in the current economic climate are becoming progressively more expensive, for example energy prices are expected to rise by 47% (gas) and 92% (electricity) from October onwards.

In addition to the energy costs, Freedom Leisure, who operate the pool on behalf of the trustees, are also experiencing increasing supplier costs when purchasing goods such as chemicals for the pool and equipment for

the gym. We have made a difficult but necessary decision to review the facility’s pricing structure with effect from 1st August 2022. Prices have been increased by an average of 8%, in line with inflation, and are increasing in line with the Freedom Leisure group.”

If you aren’t familiar with all that Tenbury Pool has to offer you could pop along to their Open Day on August 19th or make use of the free 1-day pass offer - see advert on page 4.

the scheme. Our project team continue to engage with multiple partners, stakeholders, and the community of Tenbury Wells. In particular, we are having valuable conversations with the Hereford Anglican Church on finalising the scheme’s design at St Mary’s Church.”

Tenbury Pool and Gym

Mark Garnier MP cuts the ribbon to declare the CO-LAB Innovation Hub open

A consultation meeting, held in 2021

Burford Church

Held on Sunday July 17th at Burford Church, visitors were greeted by some very welcoming ‘elves’. The £1 entry fee to the fete allowed you to fill in a slip and drop it in a box for a prize draw. Tenbury Town Band opened the fete and it was lovely to sit and listen to the band on this archetypal English summer afternoon with a light breeze.

The church’s interior provided a cool refuge where you could browse some plentiful bric-a-brac. This included a radio-controlled Jeep Cherokee, a pack of party balloons, a very nice bold-green table lamp and various kitchen essentials. We were encouraged to browse by the compère who reminded us that - as seen on TV - bargains picked up on bric-a-brac stalls can turn out to be worth hundreds if not thousands!

To help further with fundraising you could try guessing the name of the crocodile or the weight of the cake, or take home one of the numerous secondhand books. Many had a go on the tombola, skittles or horseshoe throwing, and you could enter a raffle to win a ride in a Marlin sports car. Tea and cake were on offer - an almost obligatory way to help raise funds - with a great choice of cakes including a gin and tonic iced sponge.

In mid-afternoon, people gathered for the zip wire descent - for bears - from the top of the church tower and many bears made multiple trips.

Ray Morris was on hand to give visitors an insight into the church’s history and monuments - you only had to ask. There was also a colourful display of artworks by children from Burford School: Jubilee Posters, Crowns and Bloomers - all to be judged before the end of the day.

HAMPER FAYRE

Visit our Shop in Teme Street to choose from our array of Locally produced Artisan Belgian Chocolates, Patés, Cheeses, Jams & Pickles, Crisps, Cakes, Condiments and Savouries for you to take away and enjoy!

We also have a wide range of Quality Fine Wines suitable for all occasions and palates backed up by a huge selection of Local Artisan Beers, Ciders and Spirits. Why not stock up for the Weekend or that Special Occasion?

We can also send Bespoke Gifts/ Hampers to Your Friends and Family within the UK if you wish. Simply come to the Shop and select the items you want to send at a budget to suit. We are now stocking fully Furnished Picnic Hampers for those Summer Picnics with Family or Friends for Two, Four or Six People.... Also Blankets and Wine Carriers. Drop into our Shop or visit our Website to view!

www.hamperfayre.co.uk

email: info@hamperfayre.co.uk Tel: 01584 781122 Mobile: 07836 263760

Hamper Fayre, 59-61 Teme St, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8AE

Opening Times: 10.00am to 4.00pm Tuesdays to Saturdays inclusive (Closed Sunday and Monday)

Hello from one of the elves!

You can almost hear the bear saying “It’s a long way down”!

Tenbury Town Band

Ray Morris sharing his knowledge of Burford Church’s history

Having a go at skittles

New owners J and Sonal, from Tenbury News in Tenbury Wells, are organising a fundraising curry night for the Parkinson UK charity. The idea came up when Sonal received an information pack for the ‘Bake for Dementia’ campaign. However, as she can’t bake, she thought it would be good if they could instead organise a ‘full meal’ curry night, with the donations going to Parkinson’s UK, a charity which is close to Sonal’s heart. So come and

support them and spice up your evening with a charity curry night with an authentic home-cooked Indian meal to take out. All meals (starter, main course, Indian sweets) are pre order only at £15 per person. Please ring Tenbury News on 01584 810230 or message 07366 408763 to book your curry night meal box or for more information. The meal boxes will be available to collect from Tenbury News on August 12th from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

Doddington Lodge Village Country Fair

Doddington Lodge Residential Care Home held their village country fair on Saturday July 23rd in the Lodge’s grounds. Stalls, activities, fundraising raffles and live music all made for a lovely afternoon, particularly asunlike last year - the rain stayed away. Residents, friends, relatives and supporters turned out to enjoy the day and the parking at the nearby Doddington Village Hall was packed for most of the afternoon. An atmosphere of fun and happiness filled the air, and there was an abundant choice of delicious cakes, freshly-cooked burgers and various cocktails to try. Plenty of outdoor seating, with attractive table decorations on each table, made for a lovely setting, while Kevin McNally and Peter Roffey provided splendid live music with consummate ease. A bouncy castle, bat-the-rat, milk-thecow, face painting, quoits, hook-aduck (and pluck-a-duck!) all provided an opportunity to have a go.

Come and meet the team lead by our Head Chef who has created an exciting menu of hand prepared classic food

Our extensive breakfast menu has something for everyone from our ‘Big start’ to the ‘Healthy start’ - the choice is yours. Take lunch with all your lunchtime favourites and in the evening choose from the Grill menu which includes grilled local meat and fish Or pick from our menu of classic dishes which includes vegan, vegetarian and gluten/dairy free options.

We are also fully licensed with all your favourite local beers, ciders, spirits and cocktails…

From left: Sonal and J at Tenbury News

Hook-a-duck

activity for young

Paula (left) and Courtney Thomas of Courtney’s Cakes

From left: Lauren Silvey, Marina Rae and Jack Rae from ‘Just Jersey Milk’ could rustle up a milk shake for £1!

Kevin McNally and Peter Roffey (Shred Belly duo) - catch them at local venues including The Sun at Corfton, The Black Swan in Leominster and The Rose & Crown in Burford

NERVOUS ABOUT GOING TO THE DENTIST? DON’T BE!

Cleobury Dental Practice is proud to help anxious patients with their dental care by using the latest techniques, including sedation during dental treatments. Your dental health is best managed with regular check-ups so that any problems may be spotted before they cause you any symptoms. This way, there is a much better chance of keeping your teeth for longer! Why not book a dental health check with our team of dentists and keep your smile for many years to come!

• Sedation available for your dental care

• Spread the cost of your dental treatment with a range of payment options* (T’s & C’s apply)

• Evening appointments available

• Free car parking available

• Book a FREE VIRTUAL CONSULTATION with our co-ordinators to answer any questions about our practice and services, all from the comfort of your own home!

Dental Implants

Cleobury Dental Practice has an experienced team who are able to provide a fixed, stable alternative to loose and uncomfortable dentures. Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth, allowing you to chew, eat and smile more confidently.

• Experienced team providing dental implants

• Implants can replace a single missing tooth through to full arches of missing teeth

• Sedation available to help anxious patients

• Spread the cost with a range of payment options* (T’s & C’s apply)

Opening

*Where required by law, loans will be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Consumer Credit Act. Credit is provided by Wesleyan Bank Limited who is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Wesleyan Bank Ltd (Registered in England and Wales No 2839202) Registered Office: PO Box 3420, Colmore Circus, Birmingham B4 6AE. Tel:

and

apply. Written quotations are available on request from Wesleyan Bank Limited. Credit facilities are subject to status and affordability checks and only available to UK residents over the age of

Wesleyan Bank Limited reserves the right to decline any application. APR and repayment details are correct at time of print. Telephone calls may be recorded for monitoring and training purposes. Kunal Raj Sirpal trading as Cleobury Dental Practice is a credit broker, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

•

Christening Gown ExhibitionChristening Gown Exhibition

It is always a delight to visit the tucked-away jewel that is St Giles church in Ludford, a stone’s throw from Ludford Bridge, almost across the road from the Charlton Arms. The last time we covered an event here it was an exhibition of wedding dresses so it seems entirely fitting that we are now covering an exhibition of christening gowns!

Beautiful broderie anglaise was much in evidence on many of the gowns and information sheets gave details about each exhibit, including how many christenings it had been used for, or who made it, or where it was bought. There were also photos included, indicating how many happy memories are attached to these family heirlooms! Some of the gowns were over 100 years old and had seen numerous christenings over the years. A display of ‘Mayoral newborn’ baby clothes and accessories from Poyners of Ludlow added further interest.

Echoing the ‘newborn’ theme, Paddington Bear had taken up a position in the pulpit with his marmalade sandwiches laid nearby! Visitors could sit down to enjoy cake

and a drink in the cool of the church, in the company of a huge teddy bear, a tiger and Peter Rabbit!

The next fundraising exhibition will be a floral celebration of 150 years of Peter Rabbit, 19-22 August, when all things Peter Rabbit will be on display to enjoy and maybe bring back a few childhood memories.

Sarah Cartwright (L) and Pam Farquhar (R) enjoyed the exhibition

Broderie anglaise decoration gives a pretty effect

Paddington in the pulpit

Purchased from Poyners in 1930!

This gown was inspired by a picture of a winning design from The Great Exhibition of 1851. Made in 1985 for an international machine knitting competition maker Gloria Thomas was awarded bronze

Paddington sits on a shawl, lovingly knitted by Mrs Doris Ruth Hutchinson (née Edwards, of Bromfield). Now regarded as a family heirloom, it was used on four joyous occasions: christenings in 1975 and 1978, and trips home from hospital with a baby in 2013 and 2016. The accompanying gown and shoes were bought from Poyners in April 1975

Current Vacancies

Becoming part of the Doddington Lodge family is really something special. Our team is built on a shared purpose, to provide outstanding care for our residents and support for loved ones. We invest in our team members, helping them progress and develop within their roles and career path. More than ever we are looking for the right individuals who can really make a difference. If you believe you have the right skills please email your CV to: enquiries@doddingtonlodge.com or visit www.doddingtonlodge.co.m/careers.

By the time the Show gates open at 9am, judging of livestock and horse classes will be well underway, together with 36th National Show of Hereford Cattle and National Show Ryeland Sheep, so any early birds wanting to make a full this countryside spectacle won’t be disappointed! Countryside Ring acts start at 11am (see p18 for timings), Main Ring entertainment starting at 1.30pm (see p18). are also plenty of static displays and demonstrations to Amanda Owen, “The Yorkshire Shepherdess”, will be attending and going round various parts of the Show.

Tenbury

Family Day out!Family Day out!

livestock with the Show of full day of timings), with p18). There to enjoy. attending

open-topped Show. Jam, Chutney. Award Marquée!

The large Horticultural Marquee will be packed with entries of vegetables, flowers, floral art, cookery, preserves, handicraft and children’s work. There is an Arts & Rural Craft Marquee packed with interest and a Food Fayre Marquee where you can sit and watch food demonstrations from Wot’s Cooking or taste something new.

You will hear the roar of the Tractor Pulling, which begins at noon, and the cheers from the National Young Farmers Tug of War Finals! There is a tremendous array of trade stands and local community group stands around the ground - all worth a visit! The Show Programme is packed with information including exhibitor lists, a map, livestock and horticultural classes, main ring, countryside ring, and food demonstration timings. It even contains a lucky draw ticket to be filled in for the chance to win £100! Don’t miss the displays of Classic Vehicles, Tractors and Stationary Engines. There are lots of local caterers, bars and seating located in different areas on the showground so it’s easy to take a break for food and drink and rest tired feet!

Swan Garage Tenbury Wells WR15 8AR

Looking forward to the Tenbury Show - August 6thLooking forward to the Tenbury Show - August 6th

The children’s entertainment area includes a slide, go karts, Panic Circus and Smiley train. With Appalachian Dancers, archery, wood carving, bee keeping plus lots, lots more, it is easy to see why this is truly a great day out!

Car parking is free. Only participating and assistance dogs are allowed on the showground. Mobility Scooters are available to hire from Event Mobilitysee www.eventmobility.org.uk

On the day gate prices are Adults £12, Children (5-16) £6, but discounted advance tickets (until 5pm on August 5th) are £10 for Adults, £5 for Childrenonline from www.tenburyshow.co.uk - or from local outlets:

• Bromyard - Legges Butchers

• Tenbury - Tenbury Agricultural Society office, Nick Champion, Tenbury News, Tenbury Farm Supplies (by Swan Garage)

• Ludlow - Swifts Bakery

• Leominster - Carpenter Goodwin, Wynnstay

• Bewdley - Ashley’s Bakery

• Clee Hill - Swifts Bakery

• Cleobury - Ashley’s Bakery

• Stanford Bridge - Angel Gardens at Mill Farm

• Worcester - Gwillams Farm Shop

MAIN RING ENTERTAINMENT

(Times are approximate and subject to variation without notice)

1.30 - 2.00pm Parade of Wyre Forest Beagles and Ludlow Foxhounds and Hereford & Clifton Foxhounds 2.00 - 2.30pm Xtreme Equine Stunt Team (kindly sponsored by Alpha Aggregates Ltd) 2.30 - 3.30pm Parade of Fancy Dress, Parade of Shire Horses in Decorated and Working Gears, Parade of Horses and Ponies

3.30 - 4.00pm Grand Parade of 36th National Show of Hereford Cattle and Livestock, Presentation of Cups by Mrs M. Stevens, Presentation of Society Awards 4.00 - 4.30pm Xtreme Equine Stunt Team (kindly sponsored by Alpha Aggregates Ltd)

- 5.00pm Vintage Parade of Tractors and Classic Vehicles

- 5.30pm Steam Engine Tug of War

- 6.00pm Children’s Mile Footrace

COUNTRYSIDE RING

(Times are approximate and subject to variation without notice)

11.00 - 11.30am The Sheep Show

11.30 - 12.00pm Wyre Forest Beagles

12.15 - 12.45pm Paws for Thought Dog Display Team

1.00 - 1.30pm Stuart Barnes Sheep Dog Display

1.30 - 2.00pm The Welsh Axemen

2.00 - 2.30pm The Sheep Show

2.45 - 3.15pm Paws for Thought Dog Display Team

3.30 - 4.00pm Stuart Barnes Sheep Dog Display

4.00 - 4.30pm The Welsh Axemen

4.30 - 5.00pm The Sheep Show

Leominster Vintage Club Silage Working Day

On July 3rd Leominster Vintage Club held their first Silage Working Day and it was obvious that a great deal of fun and interest filled the day. All sorts of machinery and powered attachments could be seen including a 1940s Bamfords Universal Crop loader. The day was voted a complete success with a considerable amount being raised for Dementia UK and with all the allotted silage cut, chopped, carted and clamped! Leominster Vintage Club will be celebrating its 25th year at their annual working weekend in September - see advert for details. Why not pop along and join the celebrations?

Using a Bamfords loader in the 1940s

A Bamfords loader at the event

A Case 5150 with silage fork loads the silage into the clamp and compacts the silage to exclude air pockets

tractor

Dave Edwards discussing seaweed fertiliser with an interested visitor

John Deere self-propelled 6850 forage harvester with a 630A grass attachment making light work of the day

Pausing to unblock the trailed Kidd 346 double chop forager

Enjoying the tractor and trailer ride

Above: Claas Jaguar 62 trailed forager Below: Hyde’s John Deere combination: a 6920S tractor with a trailed 3760 forage harvester

SUMMER OF FUN launched across The Malverns

Get ready for a whole host of fun summer activities and events planned across the Malvern Hills District with the new Summer of Fun campaign.

The campaign, which started on 1 July 2022, has been created by Malvern Hills District Council to attract more visitors (particularly families) to The Malverns on a day trip, a short break, or a family holiday to support the local tourism, hospitality and retail businesses.

It aims to inspire visitors to The Malverns and keep residents informed of all the great venues and summer activities happening right on the doorstep.

The campaign includes five new inspirational graphics created by a local graphic designer which each depict the wonderful things to see and do across The Malverns.

Summer of Fun also has its own web page on the Visit The Malverns website, which details local outdoor activities, heritage and gardens, festivals, events, and more.

Summer attractions include boat trips, fruit picking, Malvern Hills hang gliding, walking an Alpaca, music events, shows, geocaching, adventure climbing and much more.

Cllr Daniel Walton, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Tourism at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “ The Summer of Fun campaign is a great way to showcase everything our district has to offer to residents and visitors. We have such a variety of activities and events taking place for all ages, we encourage people to get out and about, explore our wonderful surroundings and have a look what’s on in the area.”

Visit www.visitthemalverns.org/ summeroffun for more information.

Right: One of the banners designed for the Summer of Fun campaign.

Bromyard Gala

It has been lovely to see things return to normal as confidence is regained after the lockdown and all its repercussions. Bromyard Gala was first held in 1967, originally as a one-day affair. The idea was to showcase Bromyard’s attractions and help put Bromyard on the map. This year’s two-day event brought together historic cars, motorcycles, vintage and classic caravans; Bedford campers,

commercial vehicles, tractors, steam traction engines and fair organs; local businesses and organisations; Forest of Dean tractor pulling, radio-controlled trucks and diggers; fairground rides, stationary engines, heavy horses, a rural skills working area, a horticultural marquee and more!.

The large four-field show site could be explored on foot or by tractor trailer ride (free!). The trip around the ground

allowed you to get your bearings and see all that was on offer. We visited on the Sunday, when bright and breezy weather certainly brought out the crowds.

as

into Tenbury Wells and Bromyard.

The independent hearing company has increased the services it offers after becoming a firm favourite with local communities. It now offers all its high-quality healthcare services at Andrew Jelley Opticians. The company’s certified and experienced audiologists look forward to welcoming both new and existing clients. They offer an extensive range of services to meet all hearing needs. This includes free-ofcharge no-obligation hearing examinations, microsuction ear wax removals, hearing aid repairs and accessories, alongside routine advice.

Company owner Andrew Bird said: “We are proud to be part of the thriving communities in Tenbury Wells and Bromyard, and to play a part in both towns’ ongoing growth. We have been able to expand because of our loyal and faithful clients. They tell us they like our personal approach and client-focussed service.”

Andrew Bird Hearing is a family-run business set up in 2007 and currently have in excess of 9000 clients and hold clinics in 30 centres across the south west.

Its audiologists are licensed to dispense products from a wide range of manufacturers, but they do

sales. The business prides itself on getting to know its clients so they can dispense hearing aids to best suit their hearing loss and lifestyle. Their main aim is ‘to give people the gift of sound to help them lead better lives.’

Why would I need a hearing test?

It’s a question that many people routinely ask, when in fact, comprehensive hearing examinations should be a regular part of your healthcare. All adults should have their hearing checked on a regular basis, in the same way that they go for annual medicals or vision check-ups.

While the frequency of testing depends on your risk of hearing loss, no one should leave it longer than a few years between tests. Without regular screenings the consequences can be significant; people can find themselves suffering from depression, social isolation and even missing out on career opportunities because of hearing loss they didn’t know they had.

Andrew said: “Hearing tests are often overlooked by people when in fact everyone should be having periodic hearing tests throughout their adult life. Don’t wait until you think you have hearing loss as early diagnosis could be crucial. The earlier a problem

• Andrew Bird Hearing operates from the Andrew Jelley Opticians in Teme Street on Thursdays and from the Bromyard Practice in the High Street on Wednesdays.

• To make an appointment, call 01242 262551 or email info@andrewbirdhearing.co.uk For more information visit the website at www.andrewbirdhearing.co.uk

treatment. Don’t put it off any longer! No matter what your age or hearing ability, it is always a good time to get a hearing test.”

Adults can suffer noise-induced hearing loss if they are excessively exposed to loud sounds, such as music or work-related noise. People

can also be suffering from age-related hearing loss without even realising it. The loss can be so gradual that they may not realise they are turning up the volume on the television or regularly struggling to hear people talking.

Finest Côtes De Gascogne

2021 11% - TESCO, £6.50

From south west France, this uses Colombard and Gros Manseng; some will have heard of the former, few will be aware of the flavour of the latter. The result is a fresh and citrusy wine that would make a natural partner for fish.

De Colmar Gewurztraminer 2020 14% - TESCO, £9

This curious wine, has elements of honey and mango, but with hints of parma violets. The floral aroma bought to mind a combination of night scented stock, sherbet, and - perhaps - Turkish Delight - a rare mix!

Possibly a love it or hate it choice.

Located between Burgundy and Switzerland, Jura produces a number of distinctive wines. This example uses Chardonnay (which is known locally as Melon d’Arbois), Melon a Queue Rouge and Gamay Blanc, but it’s a Chardonnay with a difference. Hints of star fruit and physalis; a soft aroma, and a dry finish. Interesting!

Vouvray 2020 12%TESCO, £7.35

From the Loire Valley in mid west France, Vouvray is focussed on the Chenin Blanc grape, but it’s not much like an archetypal South African Chenin Blanc. Fruity (melon, peach), with some lemony sweetness and hints of sherbet, this won’t suit those who like their whites bone dry, but many will find it really rather nice!

Taste the Difference Chablis 2020 12.5%, - SAINSBURY’S £14.50

From the north of the Burgundy region, this is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes; indeed, Appellation Chablis Controlée (which this wine is) requires this. This was a very nice glass of white wine. It has less minerality than some Chablis, and it isn’t as dry as some, both of which might help widen its appeal.

Wines From France - Whites

Condrieu 2019 14.5%ALDI, £26.99

This is unusual, little known, flavoursome and decidedly alcoholic, at 14.5%! From the northern Rhone, near Vienne, only about 30,000 cases are produced annually. It’s also 100% Viognier, which is of itself relatively uncommon. The result is a wine with length, and with layers that include toffee, apricot, brioche and hints of pineapple. Fascinating!

Wines From France - Reds

Taste the Difference Ventoux 2020 14.5%,SAINSBURY’S £10

This is a lovely Rhone red, from the southern Rhone valley. Made from Grenache and Syrah, the pepper of the Syrah comes through and alongside dry fruit flavours this should go down a storm with a classic “roast beef and Yorkshire pud” Sunday lunch!

Specially Selected French Rasteau 2020 14.5%, - ALDI £12.99

From the Southern Rhone Valley, this offered dark fruit and silky smoothness. It was popular with all the tasters and if this is the style of wine you are looking for you, it’s hard to see how this could disappoint!

Taste the Difference Haut-Medoc 2017 13%, - SAINSBURY’S £18

Haut Medoc is on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, in south west France. This is a more traditional French red than many that you get today, this has dryness and fruit and might be paired to advantage with a wide-ranging cheeseboard, or with roast potatoes, beef and rich gravy.

Le Nez Cabernet Franc 2015 14%,ALDI £11.99

From the Brugairolles region, not far from border with Andorra, this is a little unusual. It offers fruitiness with aromas of blackcurrant and a long taste. Not as dry as many French red, we particularly enjoyed this with cheese. The recommended service temperature is 16-18 degrees, so on a hot summer’s day, a brief visit to the fridge would be in order!

Specially Selected Cotes du Jura Chardonnay 2020 13% - ALDI, £7.99

Wines from France: Rosés

Alsace Pinot Gris Blush 2020 14%, ALDI - £9.99

Quite distinctive, with aromas of melon and strawberry. On the palate there are nectarine, strawberry, rhubarb and honey flavours. Smooth and not too dry. Pinot Gris is the same grape as Pinot Grigio, but the name split is useful, as wines labelled Pinot Gris usually differ significantly from those labelled Pinot Grigio. Rather pleasant drinking but be aware of the 14% alcohol level!

Fonte del Re Lacrima di Morro d’Alba 2020 13% TESCO - £15

Lacrima is a rare red wine grape that is native to Italy’s Marche region and this wine is also unusual. It’s full of flavour, with cherry and vanilla, and with an almost perfumed aroma, but without the harsh tannins found in some reds. We all enjoyed this and it’s definitely one to try if you like to try something different.

Despite being a red, this is best served slightly cool - try it at about 14C.

Rosé Côtes de Gascogne 2021 10.5%, TANNERS - £9.50

Sourced from a family domaine in the Gers, in south-west France, this is made from a blend of grapes: 30% Merlot, 25% Cab Sauv, 20% Tannat, 10% Syrah, 10% Malbec, 5% Pinot Noir. The result is a fresh, firm, dry wine that offers aromas of wild strawberries. You might try it with a salad, perhaps tuna, or ham, or goats cheese. The modest alcohol level might be particularly welcome for lunchtime summer drinking.

Château Sainte Eulalie

‘Buona Pulcella’ rosé, Minervois 2020 14%, TANNERS - £12.50

Eulalie is regarded as one of the finest producers in Minervois, which is in the south of France.

Produced from a blend of four grapes (25% Cinsault, 25% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 25% Mourvèdre), there are notes of red fruits. Not too dry, this might go well with rice dishes such as paella.

No 1 Domaine Pey Blanc, Coteaux d’Aixen-Provence rosé 2021 12.5%, TANNERS£15.50

From a family owned and run estate close to Aixen-Provence, in the south of France, this substantial wine is made from a blend of Grenache (80%) and Cinsault (20%). Pear drops and a hint of citrus on the nose, leading to fresh flavours of pear and wild strawberry. Quite dry, this should go well with white fish.

Wines from Italy

Novare Valpolicella Ripasso 2019 13.5% CO-OP - £11

Valpolicella is made in Northern Italy, typically made from three grape varieties, Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and Molinara. For Ripasso, the pomace of leftover grape skins and seeds from the fermentation of Recioto and Amarone are added to Valpolicella wines for a period of extended maceration, producing a distinctive wine. The aroma of fruit, spice and oak leads to a dry refreshing morello cherry, vanilla and pepper flavour, though with a hint of sweetness, then a slightly bitter finish. An enjoyable red, good for summer drinking.

In terms of location, Salento has been described as being the “heel” of Italy’s “boot”, or to put it another way, this is from south eastern Italy. Made solely from primitivo grapes, the result is a smooth red that slips down easily, so do be aware of the 14% alcohol level! A nice, tasty and robust red, with silky tannins and a nice blackberry, raspberry and mulberry tartness. Excellent!

Cantele Primitivo, Salento 2020 14% TANNERS - £12.95

Villa Boscorotondo Chianti Classico Riserva 2018 14.5% CO-OP - £16

Definitely several rungs above an entry-level Chianti, this tasty red is from Tuscany. Not overdry, not harshly tannic and with smoothness and fresh black cherry flavours, this serious red would be great to share with friends!

Planeta L’Amistanza Fiano Grecanico 2020 12.5% TESCO - £10

This is from Sicily and is made using local grape varieties. Fiano is mainly grown in Sicily and on the mainland of Italy, while grecanico is grown in Sicily, but DNA analysis has identified it as being the same as garganega, which is widely grown in Northern Italy. We found this to be a very enjoyable white: smooth but with freshness, fruity but with a dry finish.

ACountryman'sCar

Subaru'sForesteriscertainlyawell-known modelbutinrecenttimesithasbecomean"eBoxer".Thenameinformsbuyersthatwhileit stillusesSubaru'shallmarkfour-cylinder horizontally-opposedengine,itisnow 'electrified'.Inotherwords,it'saself-charging hybrid.

Thismeansthatenergywhichwouldotherwise bewastedduringbrakingcanbestoredina battery,thenreclaimedwhenitisneededto helppropelthevehicle.Notonlydoesthissave petrol,italsomeansthattheForestercantravel quietly,onelectricpoweronly,atcarpark speeds.

Talkingofpetrol,despitethisbeingafairlylarge 4x4,theonly'choice'underthebonnetisatwolitrepetrolengine,withautomatictransmission. Thereisnomanualoption,neitherisadiesel engineoffered.Thismightsoundabrave decision,buttheForestercanapproach40mpg ineverydayuse,doubtlessduetothehybrid system'scontribution.Togiveaspecific example,afteradrivefromTenburyto Churchstokethedisplayshowed39.2mpg. AllSubaruself-charginghybridshavefour wheeldrive-or‘PermanentSymmetricalAllWheelDrive’,touseSubaru'sterminology.They

alsohaveHillDescentControl,SI-Drive(Subaru IntelligentDrive),a5-starEuroNCAPSafety Rating,andEyeSightDriverAssist,Adaptive CruiseControlandPre-collisionBraking.Thismix underlinesthefactthatSubaruareasserious aboutoff-roaduseastheyareaboutTarmac,a contrasttomanymodernSUVs.

Thiscapabilitycameintofocuswhenmeetinga carcomingtheotherwayonanarrowcountry lane.Thisonlyvisible'passingplace'wasaseaof liquidmud,andtherewasverylittlespaceto spare,sothecarhadtotracktrue.Thiscertainly wasn'tthesortofsurfaceitwouldbeprudentto explorewhendrivingatypicaltwo-wheel-drive car,buttheForestertookitinitsstride,feeling everybitascompetentasitdidonTarmac.

ThisisjustoneaspectofwhytheForesterissuch agoodcarforcountrydriving,andin challengingoff-roadconditions,itsground clearancewouldbeverywelcome,aswouldthe "Xmode"settings,includingdeepsnow/mudor snow/dirt.

Thisisalarge(over4.6metreslong)andheavy (almost1.7tonskerbweight)carsoitrepaysa smoothdrivingstyleduringroad use.Thepayback

isacomfortablerideandplentyofspace;just howmuchspacewasclearlydemonstrated whenaweekendawayfortwosawthebootless thanhalf-full.Naturallyyougetthehigher drivingpositionyouexpectfromthistypeofcar, thisnotonlygivesyouagoodview,italsohelps makeiteasytogetinorout.

Thegearboxisrelativelyunusual,beingCVTtyperatherthantwin-clutchorhydraulic. Subarudubthis'Lineartronic'.Ifyouprefertodo thingsforyourself,selectthe'M'positionwith thelever,thenyoucanconvenientlychange gearusingthepaddles.Thisworkedwelland deliveredverysmoothchanges.

Theinteriorgenerallyhadaqualityfeel, underlinedbytheuseofproperperforated leatherfortheseatbacksandsquabs.Other featuresthatreflectthecar'spositioninthe marketincludeapoweredtailgate,heatedseats frontandrear,pluselectricadjustmentforboth frontseats.

TheForesterrangestartsat£37,895fortheXE, movingthroughtheSportat£39,995andupto thePremiumat£40,895.

KiaSportage

TheSportageneedslittleintroductionasithasbeenapopular choiceforsomanyyears,withover300,000exampleshaving beensoldintheUK.Thelatestversion’slookscertainlyseparate itfromitspredecessors,butit’snotjustthestylingthatcould bedescribedas“allnew”.Infact,thismodel-thefifth generationSportage-isbuiltontherecently-introducedKia/ Hyundai‘N3’platform,whichisalsousedfortheSorento. There’splentyofchoiceifyou’rethinkingofbuyingaSportage, includingmanualorautomatic,twowheeldriveorfourwheel drive.Andwouldyoulikeahybrid?Ormaybeaplug-inhybrid? Idroveoneofthemoremodestmodels,a‘level2’,withamanual gearbox.Frontwheeldriveonly,thishasthelowestpricetagof anyofthecurrentSportagerange:just£27,250.Thefactthatthe range-toppingGT-LineSplug-inhybrid(‘PHEV’)retailsat£44,550 underlinesthebreadthofchoicethatisonoffer.

Boththesemodelsusea1.6-litreturbochargedpetrolenginebut theelectricelementoftheautomatic-onlyPHEVincreasesthe claimedpoweroutputfromtheentry-level148bhp(whichisitself perfectlyadequate)to261bhp.Thisverysubstantialincrease clearlyprovidesmuchgreaterperformance,whiletheplug-in capability,ifused,greatlyreducespetrolconsumption.Thenonplug-inhybrid,whichstartsat£34,000,sitsbetweenthesetwoin powerterms,with226bhp.

Thehybridbatteriesliveundertherearseats,orbelowthecabin (onthePHEV)whichavoidseatingintothecar’sluggagecapacity. Aswellasthebootitself,there’sausefulamountofstowagespace underthebootfloor.

Kiahaveareputationforproducinggoodmanualgearboxesand thecarIdrovecertainlyliveduptoexpectations,withsmoothand precisechanges.Othergoodpointsincludedcomfortableseats andthepleasantlysubduednoiselevelwhencruising,evenat 60-70mph.

Fueleconomyonthe148bhppetrolmodelIdrovewas commendable,particularlyconsideringthecar’ssizeandweight. 50mpgwasentirelypossible,butusingmoreofthecar’s performancecouldseefuelconsumptionheadingintothemidthirties.

Lookingatthedifferenttrimlevels,the‘2’istheentry-levelmodel.

Moveupanotchtothe‘3’andyouadd18-inchalloywheels,rear privacyglass,LEDfrontfoglamps,frontpoweradjustableseats, heatedfrontandouterrearseats,heatedsteeringwheel,push buttonstartandSmartCruiseControlwithStopandGo functionality.

TheSportage‘4’hasdualLEDadaptiveheadlamps,panoramic sunroofandaglossblackroofrack.ItalsogainsaHarmanKardon premiumaudiosystem,alongwitha15Wwirelesssmartphone charger,360-degreeAroundViewMonitor,Blind-SpotView Monitor,BlindSpotCollision-AvoidanceAssistandParking CollisionAvoidanceAssist,whileonHEVeditions,RemoteSmart ParkingAssistisincludedasstandard.

The‘GT-LineS’varianthasaglossblackradiatorgrilleanda chromeskidplatefrontandrearplusotherdetailchanges,and alsotheoptionofablacktwo-toneroof.Thereare10-waydriver and8-waypassengerelectricallyadjustablefrontseats,anda smartpoweredtailgate.

Lastbutnotleast,theSportagebenefitsfromKia’susualseven yearwarranty.

AffordableandPractical!

Imagine,ifyouwill,agloriousJuly day,withadeepblueskyandjusta fewfluffywhiteclouds.Imagine thatyouaredrivingdownawellsurfacedandrelativelystraight mainroadwithlittletraffic.The sceneryissplendidandyouare sittingcomfortably,onleather seats,inarelativelyquietcabin, withdualzoneclimatecontrol.

Undoubtedlytherearemanycars thatcouldmanagethis,perhaps withaprestigebadgesuchasAudi orBMW.However,youmightnot immediatelythinkofaSsangyong Tivoli,butthatisexactlywhatwe weretravellingin.Thefactthatthe Tivoliistheleastexpensivecarin Ssangyong'srangemerelyaddsto thesurprise,thoughitshouldbe borneinmindthatwewereinan 'Ultimate',whichisahighspecificationversion.

TheTivoli,whichtakesitsname fromatowninItaly,about20miles fromRome,isaround4.2metres long.It'saconvenientsize,andthe

legroominthebackisparticularly generousforacarofthislength, helpingmakeaTivolirealisticfor fouradults,evenonlonger journeys.

Therangestartsat£18,125withthe Ventura,andeventhishasarange ofupmarketfeatures.Theseinclude heatedfrontseats,cruisecontrol, keylessentry,push-buttonstart, automaticheadlights,rain-sensing wipers,anauto-dippingrearview mirrorandaheatedsteeringwheel. Thehigher-specificationUltimate, whichIdrove,startsat£21,625.

Enhancementsinclude18inch wheelsratherthan16,dualzone climatecontrol,powerfoldingdoor mirrors,leatherseatsandEuropeantunedsuspension.Italsohasa biggerengine-1.5litres,compared totheVentura's1.2litres;bothare turbochargedpetrolunits.

PracticalfeaturesonthecarIdrove includedasparewheel;thisis stowedundertheremovableboot floor.TheUltimate'ssuspension

gaveasuppleride,clearlyaimedat deliveringcomfortratherthana sportyfeel;thisshouldpleasethose whoarefedupwithbeingshaken bytoday'spoorly-surfacedroads.

Themirrorsgaveadecentview,the tailgatewaseasytouse,andthe speedo/tachodisplaywasclearand easytoread,andyoucouldselect thelayoutyourpreferred.There's alsoanicefeelingofspaciousness inthecar,evenintherearrelativelyunusualinacompactcar.

The1.5-litreengine,with168PS, deliveredarespectableturnof performance,meaningitcouldpick upitsskirtswellenoughtomakea decentjobofovertakingslowermovingtraffic.There'satraditional handbrake,whichisincreasingly unusual,butitworkedbetterforhill startsthansomeoftheelectric brakesthatareonoffer.

ThecarIdrovewasrelativelyquiet atA-roadcruisingspeeds,interms ofenginenoise,windnoiseand tyrenoise-despitethefactthatthe

'Ultimate'useswide,lowprofile (215/50R18)tyres.Ithadthe optionalautomaticgearbox;this added£1520tothepriceandin normaldrivingitusuallyworked verywell,withmostchangesgoing unnoticed

Drawbacks?Well,itpartlydepends whatyouwantfromacar.Ifyou wantahugeboot,you'llneedto lookelsewhere,andSsangyong producelargermodelsforthose whowantmorespace.Ifyouwant todriveinanovertlysportymanner youwillalsohavetolookelsewhere -butsurelynobodythinkstheTivoli ismeanttobeasportsmodel! Oneimpressivefeatureaboutthe caristhatdespiteitsmodestpriceit comeswithasevenyearwarranty. Wherefuelconsumptionis concerned,atriptoNorthWales endedwiththecomputershowing 30mpg,butonthereturnjourney, viaadifferentroute,itaveraged 33mpg,reflectingtheeffectof differentspeedsandconditions.

TivoliinEardisland

Spaceintherear

ConfigurabledisplaySparewheel

house with annexe and boarding kennels set in about 13.57 acres (tbv) and offering diverse potential.

Sitting

Double

Garage,

Room, Two Reception Rooms, Garden Room, Master Bedroom with Ensuite, Three Further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Single Storey One Bedroom Annexe, Dog Boarding Kennels, Building with Potential, Large Gardens and Parking, Pastureland - about 12.5 acres (tbv). EPC Rating E.

oast house conversion in an

with fine views across the Teme Valley.

Room, Spacious Sitting Room, Utility Room, Cloakroom,

with Ensuite, Two Further Double

Shower Room, Large Single Garage,

EPC

Attractive

An extended semi-detached house in a rural village with outstanding views across the adjoining open countryside. Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Living Room, Conservatory, Four Bedrooms, Fifth Bedroom/Study/Dressing Room, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Utility Room, Ample Driveway Parking, Attractive Gardens, EPC Rating E.

BURFORD, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE: £360,000

A modern cottage style detached house with double garage/home office in an exclusive developlment on the edge of town. Fitted Kitchen, Two Reception Rooms, Conservatory, Master Bedroom with Ensuite, Two Further Bedrooms, Bathroom, Cloakroom, Attractive Gardens, Double Garage, Garage Loft Conversion, Parking, EPC Rating E.

ORCHARD COURT, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE: £90,000

A first floor flat in a prime position on a popular development which benefits from a warden service, resident facilities and an alarm system, conveniently situated within level walking distance of the town centre. Kitchen, Spacious Living Room, Double Bedroom, Shower Room, EPC Rating C.