Teme Valley Times 89 - Aug/Sept 2021

Aug/Sept 2021

FREE Issue No. 89

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Blooming Marvellous!

Flower displays are a popular way of brightening up our towns and villages, particularly since ‘Britain in Bloom’ was first held in 1963, initiated by the British Tourist Board based on the example set by Fleurissement de France.

Today we are fortunate to have so many local groups and businesses that spend time, effort and expense in planning and planting hanging baskets, planters and flower beds, along with watering and maintenance, so that people can enjoy displays of colour for months on end.

So next time you are in Tenbury, Ludlow, Leominster, Bromyard, Cleobury or beyond, keep an eye out for the beautiful blooms and maybe reflect on the work that goes into making it all happen!

The photo shows volunteers putting up hanging baskets on Teme Street in Tenbury Wells.

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What of the Future?

by Dr Ken Pollock, former Worcestershire County Council Councillor As the country struggles to free itself from the restrictions imposed to control the Covid-19 pandemic, it faces a far greater revolution in the way we live. This is based upon the near universal belief that our world is on the brink of irreversible changes that will cause our extinction and that of life on earth as we know it.

Our current government is totally sold on the idea of climate change resulting from human activity – as is the government of more or less every country in the world. So, they can’t all be wrong, can they?

Hence, our leaders want us to work toward Net Zero by 2050, which means we give up petrol and diesel engine cars, stop heating our homes and water with natural gas, and abandon any use of fossil fuels in industry. Our energy is supposed to come from renewables, meaning wind and solar power, supplemented by biomass and nuclear – although some in the Green movement eschew nuclear power.

Even Germany has forsaken nuclear power, worried about Fukushima.

Strangely, you don’t get tsunamis in Germany, and no-one died of radiation in Fukushima. No matter, ignore George Monbiot and

abandon nuclear power!

What of the Teme Valley? This is an area rich in agriculture, but that industry is threatened by those who want us to reduce our meat intake. Cows produce methane, which is much worse than carbon dioxide! Plus, all that nitrogen fertiliser can result in high levels of ammonia in the air – one of the few such pollutants that has not plummeted in concentration over the last 50 years.

Intensive crop production has “mined” our soil carbon, so it is less productive. But how much carbon can the soil hold? Rothamsted Experimental Farm has carried out an experiment for 180 years, where a winter wheat crop has been grown on the same plot every year.

There was an annual application of over 14 tonnes per acre of farmyard manure – roughly 50% more than the normal rate – and the soil carbon has gone up less than 1% per year – over 180 years!

Perhaps farm soil is not a good way of storing carbon, to avoid climate change. Peat is not much better. It grows at about 1mm per year – a depth of one metre would take 1,000 years, so not exactly a ready store for all that carbon dioxide we are producing.

So, if farming gets off the hook to some extent, what else should we do? The trick here is that the remedy must not be worse than the disease. Wholesale deindustrialisation of our society is costly. Each home switching to an air source heat pump from gas or oil central heating would require expenditure of many thousands of pounds.

And for what? Despite all the gloomy predictions of climate breakdown, most of what we are told is exaggerated. Most of the predictions are based on models that in the past have been wrong – always too pessimistic.

So what about mitigation? Can we live with higher temperatures? Here it would be like the Mediterranean.

We are promised floods and droughts. So, could we spend some money saving the winter floods to overcome the summer droughts?

If you are worried about carbon dioxide levels going up, consider the Equilibrium Carbon Sensitivity.

This estimates the increase in temperature if carbon dioxide levels double, say from the current level of around 400 ppm to around 800ppm. There is a range of figures for the temperature increase, but they are around 3 degrees – that is

if the global carbon dioxide level doubles - but it would take around 130 years!

We are told, though, that disaster strikes if the temperature rise exceeds 1.5 degrees over preindustrial levels. Note, we would have to double current carbon dioxide levels to get a further 1.5 degrees, and what chance is there of that?

So maybe we can go on farming in roughly the same way in the Teme Valley. Maybe we can expect to keep driving our own cars, run on petrol or electricity, so we do not have to abandon our rural lifestyles.

Maybe we will realise that “being an example” to the rest of the world might leave them laughing at us, as they continue to develop, rather than seeking to follow us into possible penury.

Let’s try these arguments out on China, India and under-developed countries. I have a feeling they will say the risk is worth it, while they seek to follow our original path to prosperity…

Teme Valley Times: our main circulation area and how to contact us Phone: 01584 781762 Email: temevalleytimes@yahoo.co.uk Online: www.facebook.com/temevalleytimes Post: Teme Valley Times, Tenbury Wells, WR15 8LW Editor & Publisher: Chris Dell.

Deputy Editor: Lucy The Teme Valley Times is locally-owned and independent. Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that what we publish is accurate but no responsibility can be accepted for any errors, omissions, changes or cancellations. Check all information before making a commitment or a special trip. The contents of this publication (words, images & adverts) are protected by copyright. If you wish to reproduce anything you must first obtain written consent from the publisher.

    

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Brimfield Community Volunteering with Tenbury Applefest Tenbury Applefest is looking for new volunteers to join existing supporters. There are Weekend opportunities for the odd hour or two, or for someone who is interested in a more involved role. Although Applefest is only a one day event, it is months in the making.

There is work to do during the two day set up period and on the day, both at the gate and on car parking duties, also on the following day for the clean-up. If you feel that you would like to help you can contact David (07779 142642) or Carole (07971 543790) or email your details to business@theruralmeetingplace.com

A winning entry at the 2019 Brimfield Show A desire to bring the village and local community together after an isolating 18 months has seen the organising of a bumper weekend of events in Brimfield on August 13th,14th &15th.

All the activities are based at the village hall and start with a Family Bingo Extravaganza on Friday evening at 6.30pm for eyes down at 7pm.

Admission is free but organisers would like you to book a table in advance by ringing Elaine on 01584 711650.

At 8.30am on Saturday morning registration for the Fun Runs opens, £5 adults and £2.50 child.

You can choose 1.5k or 5k to run, walk, walk with your dog or take your young family in push chairs. The 1.5k should start at 9.30am and the 5k (limited to 100 entries) starts at 10am.

Refreshments and bacon sandwiches are promised to be available after the run along with a coffee morning in aid of St Michael’s Hospice in the hall.

On Sunday afternoon a Teddy Bear Hunt starts at 1pm with the village’s horticultural show opening its doors at 2pm. Admission to the show is only 50p (free if you participated in a fun run) and cup presentation takes place at around 4pm. Then to round off the weekend, you can enjoy freshly cooked pizzas in the hall’s car park.

Hay on Road

Apple display at the 2019 Tenbury Applefest

These photos, by Keith Gluyas, show an incident that blocked the A456 outside the Boat House at Newnham Bridge on July 22nd.

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TEME VALLEY TIMES

What’s On!

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Far Forest Countryside Show Charity No 205210

FAR FOREST

COUNTRYSIDE SHOW Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th August 2021 Admission £5. Children under 16 free.

Opens at 10am each day and closes at 4pm

A FUN DAY OUT FOR ALL THE FAMILY Showground, Tenbury Road (A456), Callow Hill, Rock, Nr. Kidderminster, DY14 9DA

Tel: 07773 905 680 or Email: admin@farforestshow.co.uk

www.farforestshow.co.uk

This year’s show will be a little smaller than in previous years because planning took place while things were so uncertain.

Nevertheless, two days of entertainment and interest are still on offer.

Entertainment will include falconry displays, dog shows and local musicians including Tenbury Town Band on Saturday.

There will be displays of vintage vehicles and small animals and entries in the horticulture competition will be displayed in the main marque. Categories include vegetable and fruit, flowers, cookery, home craft, floral art, photography, and a children’s section.

There will be the opportunity to shop in the craft marquee or to buy from outside traders. Children will be able to enjoy bouncy castles, the big yellow fun bus, the superheroes treasure hunt and tractor trailer rides, and a special attraction this year will be flypasts by a Douglas C47, currently scheduled for 2.15 on Saturday and 12.57 on Sunday.

The food court this year has breakfasts, hog roasts, Thai food, steak and mushroom rolls, crepe house, coffee and pastries, Fletcher’s Cider Bar and Lemon Tree licensed bar. You are welcome to bring your own picnic, but you are asked to not bring glass onto the site.

To reflect the reduced size of the show and to welcome back visitors, the entrance fee is reduced to £5, or free to accompanied under 16s. Payment will be at the entrance gates with cash being accepted, but with contactless payment being preferred.

The organisers said “This year, more than ever, we look forward to seeing you all again.”

Conquest Theatre Bromyard The Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show

DOG SHOW CHILDRESNS' SUNDAY 12:00pm ME 15th AUGUST SCURRY RUN GA EASTHAM SUMMER TEAS PAMPERED PONIES STOURPORT ON SEVERN BRASS BAND

MEMORIAL HALL ALL ENQUIRIES

01584 781505

Celebrated worldwide for the thrilling energy and passion of its Irish and international dance. Reimagined with innovative and spectacular lighting, projection, stage and costume designs. Wednesday 11th August 7.30pm £12.50 (recorded live in 2020)

Andre Rieu: Together Again Andre has handpicked his all-time favourite show tunes, operatic arias and dance numbers from stages around the world - featuring many performances never seen before on the big screen.

Saturday 28th August & Saturday 4th September 7.30pm £14 (recorded live)

Exhibition on Screen 2021

CREAM TEAS Smithy Bungalow Whitton SY8 3DB on Sat 21st August from 3pm - 5pm.

at

£5 per person.

Little Hereford Fete Saturday 14th August, 2pm - 4.30pm At Easton Court on the A456 at Little Hereford - just follow the signs.

Join us in this historic and atmospheric setting for a fantastic afternoon out.

Tenbury Town Band.

Novelty Dog Show at 2.45 - just turn up in good time with your dog.

Refreshments, Tombola, Coconut Shy, Treasure Hunt etc.

Stalls open at 2pm: Bric a Brac, Produce and Plants, Nearly New, Cakes, Books.

Grand Draw, win £100!

Admission: Adults £1, children free.

There's something for everyone!

Guess the weight of the cake.

Raffle.

In aid of St Mary's Church, Whitton

TENBURY CAR BOOT August Bank Holiday Monday The Burgage - 7am to 2pm Cars £6, trailers £4.

Vans or trade from £12. email tenburyukcarboot@gmail.com phone 07817 603795

Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers from the Van Gogh museum.

Wednesday 1st September 7.30pm £10

Mick Fleetwood & Friends Celebrate the music of Peter Green and the early years of Fleetwood Mac. Tuesday September 7th & Sunday 12th 7.30pm £12.50 (recorded live at London Palladium 2020)

The Canterbury Tales by David Mynne Friday 17th September 7.30pm £10 (supported by Arts Alive). Live on stage

Opera Australia: La Traviata.

Saturday 25th September 7.30 pm £12.50 (recorded live on Sydney Harbour)

Northern Ballet: Dangerous Liaisons.

Wednesday 29th September 7.30 pm £12.50 (recorded live)

Holder and Smith Quartet (jazz).

Saturday 2nd October 7.30 pm £16 (live on stage)

FILMS Aug 6 Mrs Lowry & Son Aug 20 Military Wives Aug 27 The Good Liar Sept 3 Nomadland Sept 24 After Love

PG 12A PG 12A 12A

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm

For full details, many more events and online booking visit www.conquest-theatre.co.uk or contact the box office 01885 488575 Join us on Saturday mornings for coffee and a warm welcome

Full disabled facilities including loop system

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Music for a Summer Afternoon Tenbury Town Band gave its first live performance for over 12 months on July 11th. The outdoor concert was held in the picturesque setting of St Mary’s Church, Burford. People were encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy while they sat and listened, and appropriate Covid distancing measures were in place.

With an advance apology that members had only had three rehearsals in 18 months, the band struck up its first number ‘Abide with me’ - very appropriate considering the venue! A medley from My Fair Lady followed, and the next tune, ‘I can’t help falling in love with you’, provided opportunity for the audience to sing along.

It was lovely to see (and hear!) the band back playing together, and they already have a good number of appearances booked in for the rest of 2021.

For more information about the band and how to join see www.tenburytownband.co.uk

Clows Top Community Event

A party in the old days

Accountant sponsors Tenbury 10k Local Tenbury business dhjh Accountants has helped Tenbury 10k get back up and running.

The event is set to start at 11am on August 8th on the Burgage.

It then takes a route through local country lanes and returns to Tenbury over Oldwood Common. The organisers announced dhjh’s sponsorship saying “Every finisher will receive a bespoke tech t-shirt when they cross the finish line this year - proudly displaying our sponsor’s logo!”

Tim Giles, founding partner of dhjh, has worked in Tenbury since 1990. He said “We are delighted to be sponsoring the Tenbury 10k and are thrilled to have it back on the racing calendar. I am a keen runner myself - though not as quick as I would like - and I still hope that my best runs are ahead of me!”

Jo Unwin, who has recently become a partner at dhjh, has just

Runners at the 2019 event started her running journey. dhjh act for over 600 clients in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire but also have clients on the Welsh coast and even as far afield as Australia.

Last year, plans were being prepared by the Clows Top Victory Hall Committee and the Far Forest and Rock Branch of the Royal British Legion, to mark the 75th Anniversaries of VE and VJ Days. Sadly these plans were defeated by the Covid Pandemic.

With the generous support of Bayton Parish Council, new plans have now been made for a Community Event, planned to be held at Clows Top Victory Hall on Saturday 21st August, starting at 11am.

The Royal British Legion is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year and the event will begin with a short Remembrance Service in the Hall, conducted by Rev Sallie Butcher with the Legion Standards in attendance.

Plans for the afternoon include a bouncy castle, vintage vehicles, live music, WW2 re-enactors, an owl experience, RBL stand, gardening club plant stall, ice creams, a licensed bar and lots more.

Roger Dyer, Hall Chairman, said “A lot of effort has gone into making sure that this event has something of interest for all ages and the organisers are keen to welcome everyone to the Victory Hall. We look forward to a truly rewarding and memorable day.”

Anyone wishing to know more, or wanting to get involved, can contact Roger on 07870 522567.

To advertise in the

email temevalleytimes@yahoo.co.uk or ring Chris or Lucy on 01584 781762 Next issue due out late September

Book your space by September 10th

See our facebook page for up to date information FULLY ATTENDED, TEMPORARY HOURS 9AM-5PM MONDAY-FRIDAY

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TEME VALLEY TIMES

TEME VALLEY TIMES

Residents outside the new Hall

Tenbury Fish Bar Fish, Chips, Pies, Pasties, Burgers, Kebabs, Chicken, Vegetarian.

MEGA Tenbury Special: LARGE Fish + LARGE Sausage, served with chips & LARGE curry or beans or gravy.

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Pickled mussels & cockles.

Open 6 days a week, lunch & evening.

Closed Sundays.

7

Nicky Webb and helpers preparing to plant a white clematis

Children preparing the planters outside the new Hall

New Eastham Hall looking busy!

The official opening of the hall’s community garden took place on Wednesday 2nd June, with children and other residents helping to fill the numerous new planters.

The occasion also saw the return of the hall’s regular monthly coffee morning on the first Wednesday of the month at 10.30am. Seen as an opportunity for a coffee and a chat, there is usually a fundraising raffle and also various items for sale.

Celia Adams commented “Now, with the help of a grant from the National Lottery’s ‘Our Community Can’ fund, our hall is hopefully to become a centre for activity classes and physical activity!”

Further events at the hall are planned including a children’s free activity day ‘at the beach’. Celia continued “On 11th August why not come to our ‘beach’ and join in the fun. The day is free to all and

runs from 10am to 3pm. There will be a paddling pool, sand, volleyball and crafts and games for all. Bring your swimwear, buckets, and spades and a packed lunch for a picnic on the ‘beach’!”

The only stipulation is that adults need to accompany children and there will be allday refreshments for grown-ups For information contact admin@ easthammemorialhall.org.uk Photos by Keith Gluyas and Pete Thorpe.

4 in 24 Challenge

01584 891076

Are you looking for: Wooden Crafts; Hand painted or carved signs; Local History DVDs, CD or History Books of Titterstone Clee Hills & North Herefordshire Villages; Guided tours of the Clee Hills & Orleton Village; or Lectures by a Shropshire Lad? Contact Ann and Alf Jenkins Publications: email alfjenkins07@gmail.com or ring 01568 780398 or call and see us at The Damsons, SY8 4HW.

PHIL GRAY Dairyman/Newsagent For all your National, Daily, Sunday and Local Papers, Magazines.

All Milk, Dairy Products, Eggs, Soft Drinks, Waters etc.

Delivered to your door 7 days a week

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The Codfather Open Seven Days a Week Fish & Chips - Kebabs - Pukka Pies 6 Prospect View/Rock Lane, Ludlow

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Free local delivery

Award for local Veterinary Left to right Catalin Demeter MRCVS, Head Vet; Debbie Smith RVN, Hospital Manager; Emily Meredith RVN, Head Nurse; with Bridgnorth practice’s award certificate Local practice group Severn Edge Vets have been recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) with a Client Service Award. The following branches received ‘Outstanding’ Client Service status following the assessment process in 2020: Bewdley, Bridgnorth, Broseley, Church Stretton, Cleobury Mortimer, Donnington, Ludlow, Kinver and Much Wenlock.

Severn Edge has already been accredited under the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme - a voluntary initiative to quality-assure veterinary practices throughout the country but applied for this additional award.

The practice teams went through a special assessment in which they demonstrated to an RCVS Assessor that they met a range of stringent criteria. They have also committed to be reassessed every four years to ensure they continue to meet the award requirements.

Hospital Manager Debbie Smith RVN said “We’re delighted that this award recognises the excellence in customer experience we aim to achieve. This is fantastic reassurance for our clients that they are receiving the best service possible. We have trained our team

members in customer service, regularly ask clients for their feedback and learn from their experiences.”

RCVS President Dr Mandisa Greene said “Congratulations to Severn Edge for achieving these awards. To do so, the team has had to meet very stringent assessment criteria and I commend them for their dedication and hard work in demonstrating the quality of the service they provide to their patients and clients.”

Outstanding Client Service Award

Team member Anthony Gluyas Team 4 in 24 is aiming to raise money to support St Michael’s Hospice by ascending and descending four mountains in 24 hours.

The trip is set to start from The Beavers mascot for First St Michael’s Orleton Scout Group Hospice, Hereford, at 2pm on Friday 20th August.

The challenge is for the four team members to each climb 2,860 metres (9,383 feet) and hike approximately 25 miles, including the summits of Snowdon, Cader Idris, Pen-y-Fan and Waun Fach, all within 24 hours, with less than 3 1/2 hours respite, whilst travelling between locations.

The Beavers mascot from First Orleton Scout Group will be travelling with the team; Anthony Gluyas, one of the team members, told us “He will be with us for all the mountain summits.”

Donations are welcome via Just Giving at www. justgiving.com/fundraising/4in24challenge and on facebook the challenge is at www.facebook. com/events/745438812814372

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TEME VALLEY TIMES

Rock and Heightington Fete The massive Rock Church cast welcome shade on July 17th as Rock and Heightington fete got underway beneath clear blue skies and blazing hot sunshine.

The church’s cool airy interior also provided a very agreeable space in which to take refreshments during the hot afternoon! If you were feeling energetic you could climb the church tower for a £1 and gain a great view of the surrounding countryside.

Despite the heat, many tried their hand at skittles

A banner welcomed the steady stream of visitors

The eclectic collection of motor vehicles provided much interest

Gardeners could find flowers, annuals, perennials and shrubs a plenty

The fete in full swing

Guitarist Tom Dearn provided very pleasing background music for the fete

‘Hook a duck’ was one of the many activities laid on for the younger fete goers

Eyes down on the bottle tombola!

Fascinating ‘Fidget’ dementia blankets made by members of Far Forest WI offered for sale for a donation

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St Michaels Village Hall officially reopened AGM cancelled

Eric Hudson and Ros Plested On the 17 July local residents and supporters turned out on a blisteringly hot sunny day to join the Mayor of Tenbury, Councillor Eric Hudson, as he cut the ribbon to declare the refurbished St Michaels Village Hall officially open.

Cutting the ribbon Extensive work has taken place over the last year aided by substantial funding from the National Lottery’s Community Fund. Eric, who was welcomed by Ros Plested, had the unenviable task of being architect, subcommittee member and the build-project’s manager!

Parasols and numerous brolleys were the order of the day to provide some very welcome shade and respite from the heat. Tenbury Town Band entertained

with their usual aplomb as a celebratory afternoon tea was taken by all.

The hall is well-loved and well-used by the community and regular events at the hall include a Floral art group, St Michaels Singers, Pilates, Social dancing, a monthly coffee morning, Women’s Institute and for those wanting to turn the clock back to 1966, when a hall was first erected on the site, there is a music ‘Beatlefest’ on 21 August.

Newspapers, Magazines, Maps, Cards, Toys, Sweets, Drinks, Wrapping Paper, Local Books, Laminating, Fax Service, Batteries, Stationery, Dry Cleaning, Photocopying (colour/B&W).

23 Teme Street, Tenbury Wells

01584 810230

Sheltering from the sun

TALTREES CENTRE, WORCESTER ROAD, TENBURY WELLS, WR15 8JA

01584 781361 taltreesstoves.com MONDAY - FRIDAY 9am - 5pm. SATURDAY 9am - 4.30pm CLOSED SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS

In light of the continued, and increasing, threat of infection from the more virulent Delta variant of the Corona virus, and the move to ease the legal requirement for face coverings, the Trustees and Committee of the League of Friends of Ludlow Hospital decided that it would be unwise to require their members to gather indoors for a routine AGM. The Annual General Meeting which was to have been held on Wednesday 4th August 2021 was therefore cancelled.

Chairman Peter Corfield said “The 2020/21 Annual Report and Accounts are already prepared and subject to the Auditors scrutiny, as last year, a precis will be issued with the next members’ Newsletter.

Although we have been unable to mount any fundraising activities this year, it is good news that we have maintained our growing rate of liquidity”.

A continuing major concern of the Committee is the need for more volunteers as at the moment the whole of the League’s operations rest on the shoulders of a very small number of long-serving Trustees. If you could help with fundraising, or give some secretarial assistance, or help maintain the membership system, or organise mail shots (like Newsletters), help with leaflet distribution or street collections, or liaise with other organisations, please contact Peter on 01584 318468.

Peter continued, “Of course, the issue of what the future holds for health and care facilities in Ludlow and South Shropshire is still a topic that exercises the imagination of many of us and has done so since the infamous attempt to deprive us of our Hospital in 2005 when we came close to losing both Ludlow and Bishops Castle Community Hospitals. There is still great uncertainty about ‘Care Closer to Home’, the role and sustainability of GP Practices and what our local hospitals will be able to provide. In August we meet with our MP Philip Dunne to review the local situation and later in the month we meet with the Chair and Chief Executive of Shropcom, the NHS Trust that is responsible for Ludlow and Bishops Castle Community Hospitals. The outcome of these meetings will feature in the next Newsletter.”

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TEME VALLEY TIMES

Alive and nearly Kicking

by Alf Jenkins “You should have dialled 999 three days ago; now your treatment will take much, much longer.”

How was I to know I had had a heart attack?

I’d never had one before and my symptoms did not feel as drastic as I had heard from people who had experienced such attacks; such as ‘Oh I had an extremely tight feeling in my chest, had difficulty in breathing and I was breathless too.’

I have suffered from mild bouts of indigestion for many years and on 29th January 2021 I had what I thought was a recurrence of this. But after three days it persisted and became more intense. My wife Ann phoned our GP and straight away 999 was contacted and within no time an ambulance and two paramedics from Bridgnorth were at our home. I was sure nothing drastic was amiss so I did not pack any items to take with me and assured Ann I would be back home in the evening.

The paramedics were wonderful, gave me an ECG and other tests en route. This was my first experience in an ambulance in my 84 years. On arrival at A&E I had immediate attention and lots of tests. Then the result.

The doctor said, “You have had a severe heart attack and should have dialled 999 three days ago. Now unfortunately you have left it too late for us to put in stents;

therefore your treatment will take much, much longer.”

I was admitted to the Cardiac Unit where I received the most dedicated, professional help I could have wished for. I began to realise the seriousness of my predicament but the constant reassurance from the cardiac nurses was exemplary.

After five days I was allowed home but with all the precautions I was obliged to observe, and feeling so weak, I wondered if I would ever be able to experience normality again. However, every Thursday without fail, a cardiac specialist has phoned me, asked intense, detailed questions and advised me what to aim at for that current week. Ben our grandson manages a sports shop in Ludlow. He brought me a pair of walking poles. They are wonderful and have

given me such stability and confidence.

Our Village Stores and Post Office is about 300 yards away. Initially I had to pause ten times to make the journey. Now, at the end of July, with the aid of these trusty walking poles, I can walk there without a stop. Marvellous! I now believe normality is a possibility.

Due to COVID and my attack, after three years I have successfully completed my first official ‘chat’.

The feedback from The Friends of Leominster Priory was heartening.

I had two tours of the Titterstone Clees booked with Neen Savage WI and Cleobury Mortimer Masons and wives. The WI was an evening and the Masons a whole day with a picnic lunch. On the all-day tours we cover about thirty miles, but by filling cars and travelling, there is in fact very little walking, so these excursions are suitable for

Leominster Meeting Centre Fete Leominster Meeting Centre held a garden fete on Saturday July 3rd. The threatened rainstorms stayed away, except for a light, short shower, and friends and supporters of the Centre enjoyed a lovely afternoon of activities and entertainment.

A soft toy tombola, a bottle tombola and a raffle saw many receive a surprise win. A table of crafts, including many items produced during the Centre’s craft days, such as bunting, bottle lights and button pictures, provided enjoyable browsing and a produce stall offered chutneys, jams, fresh herb bunches and posies of sweet william blooms.

The cake stall did a rapid trade as soon as the doors opened with fairy cakes, Bakewell tarts and large muffins on offer.

Shetland ponies Tilly (mum, 13yrs old) and Dolly (daughter, 9yrs old) grazed peacefully outside, occasionally whinnying

from their pen, in seeming appreciation of Jenny Pipes Morris enthusiastic dancing and music.

The organisers said “Thank you to everyone who donated items, helped out and attended the fete. It was a great success and a really fun afternoon. So far £1,157.10 has been raised!”

Leominster Meeting Centre is all about helping people and families adjust to living with dementia by offering exercise, educational sessions, one-to-one meetings with support workers and advisers, as well as therapeutic activities and having fun!

Recently planned activities have included bingo, a trip to Ralph Court Gardens, bowling and lunch at Grove Golf & Bowl, karaoke, a music quiz, country and western line dancing, reminiscence sessions and more!

all ages.

We stopped at seven industrial sites and I gave a running commentary as we proceeded. I am delighted to say that I completed both events successfully and had excellent feedback. The views from the Clees were superb and the weather beautiful and I have to agree with my friend Brian Harris of Brimfield who said “Why risk the hassle of going abroad in these unpredictable times when we have such outstanding countryside and venues near at hand.”

Here’s hoping to improve further and complete our current book “From the Carthorse to Concorde and Beyond.”

Enquiries are very welcome at 01568 780398, alfjenkins07@gmail.com

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Cleobury Farmers Market It was great to see life starting to return to normality, with Cleobury Farmers Market taking place in the church on June 19th. There was plenty of space amongst the pews for social distancing, with hand sanitising stations providing further reassurance.

A good range of artisans’ stalls allowed relaxed and enjoyable browsing.

Halfpenny Green Cider Company had brought their bottled-conditioned fruit ciders - blackcurrant, mango or strawberry - and also their 8.4% still dry cider.

Tegan Haley’s ‘Soaperstition’ Soaperstition stall displayed a beautiful range of handmade bars of soap, in a range of aromas including grapefruit, lavender, rosemary, lemon and peppermint.

Many shoppers tried Wildjac’s Fresh Citrus vodka, Damson & Raspberry gin and Honey Spiced rum. For some this was an early morning tipple session and, to judge from the resulting smiles, much appreciated!

Claire Nicklin of Fox & Fettle had brought along a collection of her stunning decoupage bowls - so beautiful. The original artwork used in the bowls owes its beginnings to Claire developing her creativity whilst recovering from ill health.

Her artwork is also used to great effect throughout Fox & Fettle’s range of luxury textile designs.

Sonia Lloyd, ‘chief stirrer’ at Bewdley-based Bewdston Preserves, had some huge pickled onions on offer at 50p.

Rupert, from Bennett & Dunn (producers of cold-pressed rape seed oil) commented that it was terrific to see the market back up and running, after many months of closure. His stall was laden with that week’s freshly-pressed oils, infusions and dressings.

Karen Sutton, of CaraButton, provides a repair service for waxed cotton jackets; her stall displayed stylish shoulder bags made from parts of upcycled jackets, incorporating labels, zips and pockets from the original jacket.

With other stands selling cheese, art, bee products and more, and the chance to rest your feet while enjoying refreshments of tea/ coffee and cakes, a couple of hours could easily be spent browsing, buying and chatting to friends or producers.

Sonia Lloyd from Bewdston Preserves

J. G. BANFIELD & SONS LTD TRADITIONAL IRONMONGERS IRONMONGERY Hand Tools, Brushes, Rollers, Pen Knives, Firewood, Torches, Wicks, Ladders, Electrical fittings, Bulbs, Candles, Key Cutting, Locks, Door and Gate Furniture HOUSEHOLD Clothes Dyes, Cutlery, Utensils, Buckets, Household Chemicals, Weighing Scales, Tea Pots, Crockery, Ovenware

Wildjac’s stall

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Rupert from Bennett & Dunn

Halfpenny Green Cider

Claire Nicklin from Fox & Fettle

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Around the world in Decades ago, wines on sale in England were from a relatively few countries, such as France, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Spain. Wines from the 'New World' then appeared, particularly from Australia and New Zealand, Argentina and Chile, and from the USA. Now we have wines from emerging nations, such as the Republic of North Macedonia, as well a rarely-seen options from further afield, including India and Mexico.

Jules Verne's heroes may have travelled 'around the world in 80 days', but here we are taking a virtual tour, courtesy of 18 wines from 18 different countries.

NEW ZEALAND Finest North Row Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2020 13.5%. Tesco £13.

This Villa Maria white has crisp fresh citrus sweetness that moves into a darker grassy green finish; refreshing, nice.

GREECE

Greek Assyrtiko 1 2020. Aldi £6.99.

Grape: Assyrtiko. interesting dry wh lychees, hints of melon, zesty.

ARGENTINA Argentinian Cocodrilo Malbec 2019 14%. Aldi £9.99.

Very drinkable, red/black fruit flavours, nicely balanced, rounded tannins, universally popular.

FRANCE Château Naujan Lapeyrere Bordeaux Superieur 2015 13%. Hamper Fayre £15.95.

Grapes: Merlot (85%) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Ripe red fruits on nose and palate, oaky, merlot to the fore, dry finish.

Good with food.

AUSTRALIA The Voyage Durif 2020 13.5%.

Aldi £8.99.

Fruity, aromas of strawberries and black cherries, very drinkable, universally popular.

PORTUGAL Finest Douro 2019 13%. Tesco £10 Dry, robust, with some tannin, some intensity and some pepperiness. Probably best with food.

BULGARIA Tesco Bulgarian Merlot 2020 12%. Tesco £4.50.

Fairly dry, a very acceptable bottle of inexpensive red..

SOUTH MEXICO L A Cetto Petite Sirah (100%) 2017 14%. Tanners £9.50.

Mexico is unlikely to spring to mind when you're buying wine, but this is from Baja California, which is simply the lower part of California. Petite Sirah is also known as Durif. Silky, rich, red/black fruits, fruity start, quaffable, dry finish, soft tannins.

Impressive - who would have guessed it was from Mexico?

CHILE Finest Valle De Leyda Chardonnay 2020 13.5%.

Tesco £8.

A nice chardonnay, pineapple aromas, apple and honeydew melon on the palate, well liked..

'The Best' Grenach This Swartland w chilled on a hot s

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18 Wines

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NORTH MACEDONIA Stobi Vranec, Tikves Region 2019 15%. Tanners £8.95.

Grape: 100% Vranec. Produced near the ancient city of Stobi, this unusual, full, smooth, tasty, red would be excellent with roast beef or cheese. Popular with all the tasters - but be aware of the alcohol level!

E

13%

An hite;

ITALY Finest Falanghina 2019 13%. Tesco £9.

Grape: Falanghina. Not a well-known grape but this white had green apple aromas and citrus; some firmness and depth; dryish but not dry - a pleasant and interesting surprise.

INDIA Soul Tree Cabernet Sauvignon (100%), Nashik Valley 2018 13%. Tanners £9.90.

Nashik is in mid-west India - in Maharashtra - perhaps 100 miles northeast of Mumbai.

Rich and tasty, red fruit bouquet, nice dry finish, a nice cabernet sauvignon - and it's from India!

USA California Rosé white Zinfandel 2019 10.5%. Co-op £4.70.

A nice example of this genre that would appeal to many as a chilled summer drink. Generous fruity strawberry flavours; hard to go wrong at this price!

ENGLAND Specially Selected Bowler&Brolly Sparkling English white wine 12%.

Aldi £14.99.

If you're looking for a bottle of fizz, this is an interesting alternative from Lyme Bay, Devon.

GERMANY

AFRICA

he Blanc 2020 12.5%. Morrisons £8.25. wine is possibly at its best served wellsummer's day.

ARMENIA

revan Kangun/Rkatsiteli, Winemaker's Blend hite 2019 12.5%. Tanners £9.95. apes: 65% Kangun, 35% Rkatsiteli. ry pale colour with fresh pear and melon omas, steely minerality, light, refreshing, notes quince.

Blütengarten German Blaufrankisch 2019 13%. Aldi £5.99.

Grape: Blütengarten. This soft, flavoursome zesty red went very well with strawberries; imagine elements of Gamay, Mateus Rose and cherryade and you won't be too far off. Unusual, but really rather good in its own unusual way. It's a red that might appeal to rosé drinkers more than it does to those who habitually drinks reds.

SPAIN Finest Ribera Del Duero 2018 14.5%. Tesco £12 Obvious oak; redcurrant/red cherry flavours; some echoes of Rioja. Spicy notes; good with food. Well-liked.

aldi.co.uk tanners-wines.co.uk groceries.morrisons.com coop.co.uk hamperfayre.co.uk tesco.com

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Toffee Vodka?

If you have a sweet tooth this spirit drink (20.3%) will probably be right up your street. Created in Newby Bridge in the Lake District, this wonderfully smooth blend of Vodka and Caramel is incredibly moreish. Kin Vodka customers say ‘100% addictive’ ‘absolutely delicious’, ‘highly recommended’. We can only agree!

If you simply want to give it a try, you could pop into Hamper Fayre on Teme Street in Tenbury and pick up a miniature for a few pounds.

Available in 50ml miniature, 200ml, 500ml and 700ml.

More info from kinvodka.co.uk

Miniature Party?

Unexpectedly, friends are coming round for a visit - you could grab a selection of Kington-based Penrhos Spirits’ miniatures to accompany a summer afternoon natter.

Spoilt for choice with Dry Gin, Rhubarb Gin, Apple & Elderflower Gin or Honey Spiced Rum. Even the non-drinker can join in - there’s a Raspberry 0% distilled botanical spirit.

For more info about Penrhos Spirits and a selection of cocktail recipes visit Penrhosspirits.co.uk (01544 231467) or you could pop into Hamper Fayre on Teme Street, Tenbury, for a handful of their miniatures.

Wildjac Distillery

operation right down to their labelling, packaging and delivery and are keen to support other producers on their craft spirit journey through their collective.

This family business creates premium botanical spirits with naturally foraged botanicals from the Wyre Forest and surrounding 1% of Wildjac’s sales revenue is given to environmental non-profit organisations such as Wyre Community Land Trust, Worcestershire land and gardens, in small-batch seasonal limited editions.

Wildlife trust and Trees for Cities.

They pride themselves on their sustainable and eco-friendly Fresh Citrus Vodka Distilled with Worcestershire endeavour hops and lemon thyme. Other ingredients are elderflower, orange peel, viola, lemon zest, pink grapefruit, coriander, lime, eucalyptus, bergamot.

Truly fresh, smoothly warming, with a ‘surprising’ sweetorange, grapefruit and lime finish.

Delicious!

Natural Dry Gin Wonderfully clean herbal aroma, crisp and fresh on the palate with hint of spice on the finish. A naturally great gin could be drunk neat or over ice.

Damson & Raspberry Gin Ingredients are angelica, orange, organic Autumn Bliss Raspberries and Shropshire Prune damsons from Augernick Fruit Farm, juniper, coriander.

Smells of beautifully ripe raspberries with a hint of damson and has a real jammy, yet slightly floral finish.

A hot Summer afternoon ginalternative to Pimms?

Honey Spiced Rum Ingredients are coriander, cinnamon, Worcestershire honey, ginger root, vanilla pod, cassia, all spice, cloves, orange peel, nutmeg, peppercorns.

Aroma of honeycomb with a spicy orange, clove and ginger finish

More info from www.wildjac.co.uk or Hamper Fayre, Tenbury Wells to try some miniatures so you can decide on your favourite!

Community Grants Tenbury Tesco recently announced thousands of pounds of grant funding to a range of groups and organisations in the local area. £1,000 went to Tenbury Town Council and also to Tenbury Transport Trust and £500 went to each of the following: Regal Tenbury Trust Ltd, St Mary’s Church in Tenbury, 2nd Tenbury Brownies, Tenbury Town Band, Tenbury Ladies Hockey Club, Tenbury United Football Club, Tenbury Sports Club, Tenbury High Ormiston Academy, Tenbury Rugby Club, Clee Hill Mini Rugby Club, Lindridge Primary School, Friends of Lindridge Primary School, St Mary’s Church in Burford, Friends of Doddington Lodge and Bayton C of E School.

Tesco Community Grants (known as Tesco Bags of Help until April 2021) is administered by groundwork.org.uk in Birmingham. The scheme reopened for applications on 12 April 2021 and awards grants to charities, community organisations and not-for-profit organisations whose focus is on supporting children and families.

If you are a Tesco customer you can nominate a cause that you’d like to see supported - go to tescocommunitygrants.org.uk to submit your nomination.

Tesco’s Tenbury Wells store

Two new Vegan Alternatives Ilchester has unveiled Vegan Blue and Vegan Melting Mature ‘cheezes’ in 200g blocks, with recommended prices of £3 and £2.30 respectively.

The Vegan Blue Cheeze features blue spirulina veins to mimic the look of blue cheese and it is described as having ‘the same creamy texture and sharp and salty taste of the dairy version’. We tried it and it definitely had echoes of Danish Blue - but more buttery. It would make a useful vegan alternative on a cheese board.

The Vegan Melting Mature we tried grated well (just like real cheese!) and it made a useful dairy-free topping for baked potatoes or pizzas.

Ilchester has been making cheese in Somerset since 1962. Their other ‘cheezes’ include the award-winning Applewood Vegan (which tastes much like a dairy version, but with a firmer consistency) and their Mexicana Vegan (which, again, tastes much like the spicy dairy version with Jalapeno, bell and chilli peppers). So you don’t have to compromise on taste to go vegan!

The new ‘cheezes’ are free from dairy, lactose, soya, gluten, cholesterol and palm oil, and they are fortified with vitamin B12 and calcium.

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Hydes Pipes Ltd

15

No need to HYDE from us - we’ve got the kit!

‘Sir Nick’ will still be taking your call, but he’ll tell you to go see the team in the barn with their iPads.

Agricultural & Building Supplies Merchant. Specialising in water and drainage - plus much more!

Woofferton Grange Farm Brimfield, LUDLOW, SY8 4NP email sarah@hydespipes.co.uk

Firewood Seasoned logs Barn dried Ready to burn Free local delivery 01584 890993 07970 878224

Paul Harding Tree Services

FAST.. EFFICIENT..

SEPTIC TANK & CESS PIT EMPTYING SERVICE CHARLES MAIDEN WASTE DISPOSAL LTD

01584 711713 (farm office) / 01584 711744 / 07831 311544

All Agricultural Services Undertaken

FARM SUPPLIES AND CONTRACTING Ploughing - Planting - Combining - Silaging - Fencing Suppliers฀of฀pipes฀for฀Drainage฀•฀Water฀Supply Ducting฀•฀Irrigation฀•฀Ditches฀&฀Culverts Septic/Storage฀Tanks฀•฀Drinking฀Troughs฀•฀Pumps Tel: 01584 711713/711466 Fax 01584 711493 mobile 07831 311544

CODER TYRES LIMITED AUTO SERVICE CENTRE

RAPID EMERGENCY SERVICE 30 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS Tel 01885 482305 Mobile 07831 277193 Head Office: The Hortons, Thornbury, Bromyard, Herefs, HR7 4NF

Mon-Fri 8.30 - 17.30 Sat 8.30 - 12.30 4 Tyres 4 Batteries 4 Exhausts 4 Suspension 4 Punctures 4 Pre-MOT work 4 Welding 4 Locking Wheel Nut Removal 4 Servicing 4 Wheel Balancing 4 Agricultural on site work 4 Agent for Car & 4x4 4 Diagnostic work 4 TPM Sensors 4 4-Wheel Laser Adjustment

www.ludlowtyres.co.uk

01584 879200

UNIT O CODER ROAD, LUDLOW BUSINESS PARK, LUDLOW SY8 1XE

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Vauxhall Mokka

This latest Mokka is a new model, not a simple evolution of its predecessor, the Mokka X. It's now built on a PSA (Peugeot Société Anonyme) platform, which it shares with cars such as Peugeot's 208. By contrast, the Mokka X used a General Motors platform, a platform that was also used by cars such as the Chevrolet Spark and Vauxhall Viva.

Despite the new model being slightly smaller than its predecessor, its styling gives it more presence than the previous version. It really is a striking looker and the inside also looks good.

However, given that the Mokka is only 4.15 metres long, it's no surprise that space in the back isn't overly generous. It's fine for younger children but two lanky teenagers might find it a bit cramped on a long run.

Likewise, the luggage space isn't particularly generous but this is again a reflection of the Mokka's size. The excellent styling conveys a first impression that the car is bigger than it really is, which might perhaps lead some to expect a bigger boot.

The Vauxhall engines of the Mokka X have given way to smaller Peugeot engines, with the current choice being a 1.2-litre threecylinder petrol (with 100PS or 130PS) or a 110PS 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel. There is also an electric model, but that is outside the scope of this feature.

I drove a 130PS petrol model and one of the first things I noted on driving the car was the restrained noise level, particularly in terms of tyre noise. This helped give the car a quality feel. The 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine had good midrange performance and in many

ways it felt like a larger capacity engine - there was certainly no need to rev it hard for everyday driving.

It was fitted with the eight-speed automatic gearbox and this performed well most of the time, particularly during everyday driving, but it was occasionally indecisive and at times it seemed a little reluctant to change down when extra urge was needed for climbing hills.

One interesting feature of the car was mode selection; this allowed the driver to choose, for example, 'Eco' or 'Sport'. Selecting 'Sport' created a sporty sound - and the speedo and tacho changed to red!

There's a good range of trim levels. The entrylevel model is the SE but even this is quite well-equipped, featuring cruise control, speed sign recognition and LED headlights and tail

lights. Above that is the SRi, then the SRi Nav Premium, Elite Nav, Ultimate Nav and Launch Edition, with the specification obviously increasing at each step.

On-the-road prices start at £20,940 for the SE with a 100PS petrol engine (or £22,740 with the 110PS diesel) and run up to nearly £30,000 for the 130PS petrol auto 'Launch Edition', with the130PS petrol auto SRi Nav Premium that I drove costing £27,655, excluding any options.

During restrained driving this 130PS automatic averaged about 42mpg, but during more 'give and take' conditions it was closer to 38mpg.

The manual version should be more economical, as should the diesel, with the official figures suggesting perhaps an extra 3mpg with manual transmission, or about an extra 15mpg from a diesel.

Development testing

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Nostalgia - and Plaque for Murray Walker A blue plaque honouring motorsport commentator Murray Walker OBE, who passed away on 13 March 2021, was unveiled at Shelsley Walsh on Saturday 17th July, during Midland Automobile Club’s Classic Nostalgia weekend.

The unveiling was carried out in the company of Phil Douce from Worcester Civic Society and former BBC Formula One commentator and competitor Simon Taylor.

Walker made his commentary debut at Shelsley Walsh in 1948. The BBC liked what they heard and invited him for an audition. This led to his first British Grand Prix commentary role at Silverstone in 1949 and the rest, as they say, is history!

During his 23 years as full-time commentator, Walker became known for his animated enthusiasm and comical blunders - affectionately dubbed “Murrayisms”. A montage of “Murrayisms” formed part of unveiling at the start line commentary box.

The plaque, created by Worcester Civic Society, will serve as a permanent memorial to “the voice of British motorsport” and it was fitting that the plaque was unveiled on the weekend of the British Formula One Grand Prix.

This Classic Nostalgia weekend will be remembered for the heat and the joy of seeing spectators return to the banks of the famous hill. Shelsley Walsh is known for its stunning location and unique atmosphere.

Even if you are no expert, the commentary during

V8-powered excitement as Stephen Hepworth roared into action with the spectacular exPedro Rodriguez BRM P154 Can-Am car

Crowds were out early to find a shady spot on the hill

the day gives real significance to the vehicles climbing the hill.

To mention just one of the cars: a recreation of John Cobb’s Brooklands record-holding 1933 Napier Railton gave demonstration runs. The replica is true to the original design, other than its 6.7-litre, six-cylinder, turbodiesel Cummins engine. The car was hand-built with the full support of Brooklands over a period of 4,500 hours, using the same measurements and manufacturing techniques as the original.

Aviation action saw a Hawker Hurricane fly over on the Saturday and a Dakota on the Sunday. Other interest including music in the courtyard, numerous club displays, crafts, a pop-up 1940’s traditional tea room, street food trailers, licensed bars and lots of stalls selling anything from art to dresses, old tools to auto jumble bargains, meant there really was something for everyone.

SKODA Charles Morgan takes a Morgan up the hill

Martini Porsche

SKODA KODIAQ

The inaugural Joy Rainey ‘Fastest Lady’ trophy was awarded to Sarah Thorne who posted 32.95s in a 1961 Lotus 20/22

18 18 KODIAQ 2.0 TDi Edition DSG, blue, 16,000 miles. . . .£25,995

SKODA KAROQ 19 19 KAROQ 1.0 TSi SE DSG, green, 23,000 miles. . . . . . .£19,995

SKODA YETI 17 17 YETI 2.0 TDi SEL, beige, 25,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . .£14,995 15 15 YETI 2.0 TDi SE 4x4, red, 40,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . .£14,995 15 65 YETI 1.2 TSi SE, black, 53,000 miles. . . . . . . . . . . . . .£11,995 14 64 YETI 1.2 TSi SE DSG, gold, 40,000 miles . . . . . . . . . .£10,995 12 12 YETI 2.0 TDi SE, red, 74,000 miles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7,495

SKODA FABIA 19 19 FABIA 1.0 TSi SEL, grey, 29,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . .£11,995 18 18 FABIA 1.0 TSi SEL, grey, 29,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . .£9,995 16 16 FABIA 1.2 TSi SEL Estate, white, 30,000 miles. . . . . . .£8,995 13 13 FABIA 1.2 TSi Scout Estate, blue, 47,000 miles . . . . . .£6,250 13 13 FABIA 1.2 TSi Elegance, beige, 80,000 miles . . . . . . . .£5,250 11 11 FABIA 1.2 TSI ELEGANCE, beige, 66,000 miles . . . . . .£4,995 10 60 FABIA 1.2 TSi SE ESTATE, green, 40,000 miles . . . . . .£4,450 12 12 FABIA 1.6 TDi SE Plus, blue, 75,000 miles . . . . . . . . . .£4,450

The Napier Railton

SKODA CITIGO 20 20 CITIGOe iV all-electric auto, white, 3,000 miles . . . . .£19,995 18 18 CITIGO 1.0 SE, beige, 12,000 miles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8,250 18 18 CITIGO 1.0 SE, red, 16,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8,250 16 66 CITIGO 1.0 SE, silver, 19,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6,450 17 67 CITIGO 1.0 Colour, red, 4,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7,995 15 65 CITIGO 1.0 SE, red, 14,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5,995

SKODA OCTAVIA 18 18 OCTAVIA 2.0 TDi SCOUT ESTATE, blue, 70,000 miles £14,995 17 67 OCTAVIA 1.6 TDi SE Tech Estate, grey, 53,000 miles £11,495 14 64 OCTAVIA 1.6 TDi Elegance DSG, blue, 80,000 miles . .£8,350 14 14 OCTAVIA 1.6 TDi SE, grey, 62,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . .£7,995

STRANGERS IN THE CAMP 12 12 VW UP! 1.0 SE, red, 35,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4,595 09 09 KIA PICANTO 1.0 SE, blue, 70,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . .£2,250

Phil Douce from Worcester Civic Society beside the plaque (photo courtesy of Dennis Wood)

Dancing in the courtyard

OVERTON SERVICE STATION HEREFORD ROAD, LUDLOW. Tel. 01584 872584

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Skoda Octavia vRS Estate

People considering buying a family-size estate will probably be looking for space, reliability and practicality. Skoda's Octavia addresses all these point. Its luggage space is impressive, reliability is something that most Skoda buyers simply take for granted, and there's certainly no doubting the car's practicality.

However, some buyers are looking for something extra: performance. This brings us to the vRS which, with up to 245PS, can offer a top speed of up to155mph, though this is only of academic interest. More significant is the acceleration - it has impressive overtaking ability and can reach 60mph from rest in around seven seconds.

The car I drove had the 2-litre 245PS petrol engine, with a six-speed manual gearbox; a specification that would be likely to appeal to sports-minded drivers. The gearbox was excellent but if you prefer an automatic, a DSG auto box is an option for an extra £1,680.

Two other engines are offered, a two-litre 200PS diesel, and a 245PS 1.4-litre petrol hybrid, though these are not available with

manual transmission. Four wheel drive is a £1,445 option, but only with the diesel engine.

The test car was fitted with a number of options. One of the most interesting was Dynamic Chassis Control (£945). This allows the suspension to be adjusted to suit the road or the driver's personal preferences. It worked extremely well. A middle setting delivered a ride that was both comfortable and well-controlled, which was excellent for normal driving, but if you needed a sportier ride it was only the work of seconds to firm things up. Impressive!

This was a relaxing car to drive, particularly welcome on long trips. The well-balanced feel and accurate steering made it easy to plot a smooth and accurate line on twisty roads, which is bound to appeal to sportsminded drivers. The car's relaxed feel is underlined by the fact that 60mph in top gear saw just 2,000rpm on the rev counter.

These qualities combine to produce a car that can make fuss-free progress on crosscountry journeys - ideal for a day trip to the coast, for example.

Underlining the vRS's sporty image, there is

a synthesised engine sound; if you don't like this you can switch it off.

Where cost is concerned, the 245PS 2.0 vRS costs a recommended £32,490 on the road, or £34,170 with DSG automatic transmission. If you prefer diesel, the front wheel drive model is £34,175; the four wheel drive version is £35,620. Or if you opt for the hybrid, it's £37,515.

Over 400 test miles this vRS averaged 40mpg - commendable for a petrolengined car of this performance, size, and weight - but a diesel or hybrid would be more economical. Where company car users are concerned, the hybrid has a particular advantage: it offers much lower 'benefit in kind' tax - only 11%, compared to 35% for petrol models and 30% or 33% for diesels.

This is a good car. It's practical, comfortable and quick; it's also relatively affordable, considering what it offers. The standard warranty is for three years/60,000 miles but it can be extended to four years/80,000 miles for £280, to four years/100,000 miles for £300, or to five years/100,000 miles for £575.

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E-type 60 at Shelsley Walsh There was a party atmosphere when around 400 Jaguar E-types and their owners joined with enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate 60 years since the launch of Jaguar’s iconic E-type. Held at Shelsley Walsh, the weather could not have been better, with blue skies and temperatures hitting 30 degrees over a memorable June weekend.

The wealth of E-types would have satisfied even the keenest enthusiast: the E2A Le Mans race car prototype; the first two E’s to be raced; the oldest E-type in existence ‘9600HP’ - the Geneva Motor Show Launch car and subsequent UK press car; ‘848 CRY’ as seen in the film The Italian Job; the reunion of the 1961 Geneva Motor Show trio of E’s; and the 1964 3.8 Roadster HMT598B supplied new to Dave Clark of the Dave Clark Five and featured on their album covers.

Minis were also present and the Mini Cooper also celebrates its 60th this year. In a tribute to The Italian Job movie a trio of minis carrying ‘bullion’ were pursued through the paddock by ‘Italian Polizia’, led by E-type 848 CRY piloted by owner Philip Porter. A ‘race’ up the hill ensued, with a gendarme blowing his whistle in frustration. Great fun!

There were engaging reminiscences from legends including Paddy Hopkirk (who had an E-type himself); live music from 60’s tribute band ‘The High Tones’ and local band ‘Jake and the Jesters’; a motoring art exhibition; a 60’s-themed party in the courtyard; members from the Awfully Pleasant Scooter Association tackling the hill; and around 60 specialist trade exhibitors. You can see why a great weekend was had by all!

On the Friday evening beforehand, Philip Porter, motoring author and event organiser, along with Motor Sport Magazine Editor Joe Dunn, unveiled a plaque in honour of the late Stirling Moss (1929-2020), commemorating his first competitive efforts up the hill climb in 1948.

A brilliant event and thanks must go to the whole team at organisers Porter & Porter.

Philip Porter takes ‘The Italian Job’ E-type up the hill

The courtyard party atmosphere

One of the scooters

On the hill

No 15, RSF303, the 1956 Ecurie Ecosse Long Nose Jaguar D-type

A 7-litre engined E-type in the paddock

E-types aplenty

Paddy Hopkirk (L), being interviewed by Philip Porter

Italian Job ‘tribute’: minis and ‘Crokers Coach Tours’

Fun outfits in the shopping village

Julie Porter snapping a picture

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Kia Stonic 1.0

There was a time, not that many years ago, when a small car was simply that. These days things are less straightforward. There are now extremely small cars, there are quite small cars, and there are cars that are a little bit bigger than that. And there are also miniSUVs and mini-crossovers, so it's a more complicated market sector than it used to be.

The increasing popularity of crossovers and SUVs - for reasons such as looks, higher driving positions, and the convenience of getting in and out - has seen manufacturers respond with a range of small cars that offer an increased ride height and more interesting styling. One example is Kia's eye-catching Stonic.

This is based on the Kia Rio, but there are plenty of changes. The increased height - it's 70mm taller than the Rio - gives it an extra 42mm of ground clearance, though it's unlikely that

many would buy a Stonic for its off-road potential. It's also a little longer than the Rio, due to its increased rear overhang, and it's 35mm wider.

There's a generous range of models, but all use the same turbocharged one-litre three-cylinder engine.

The line-up includes ‘2’, ‘GT-Line’, ‘Connect’ and ‘GT-Line S’ trim levels. The entry-level '2', with 99PS, starts at £18,650 'on the road'. Higherspec models have 118bhp: ‘GT-Line’ at £21,200, ‘Connect’ at £21,650 and ‘GT-Line S’ at £22,700.

These prices are all with a 6-speed manual gearbox; 7-speed automatic (DCT) transmission is available for an extra £1,000.

If you are thinking of buying, Kia are running (to the end of September) a 'scrappage' scheme, which basically offers £2,500 for your old car (conditions apply).

A comprehensive range of equipment is on offer, with ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models featuring Forward CollisionAvoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Manual Speed Limit Assist (MSLA) and High Beam Assist (HBA), with ‘GT-Line S’ versions additionally featuring Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), with DCT editions also boasting Blind Spot

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Collision Avoidance for the rear of the car. Other advanced technology features include rear parking sensors and a reversing camera system, with ‘GT-Line S’ models also featuring front parking sensors.

The car I drove had the EcoDynamics+ Mild Hybrid Powertrain System, which pairs the engine with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This system recovers kinetic energy during deceleration, and the engine can also charge the battery while the car is cruising. The stored energy can then provide assistance when accelerating. Sometimes the engine stops running and the car coasts, even when travelling relatively quickly. This function worked well, and a display lets the driver know that the car is 'sailing', as Kia term it. This seems a natural extension of the stop/start system that is commonplace on today's cars - it worked well.

This is a good-looking car, particularly if you go for a two-tone model. It steers well, it goes well enough (with a 0-60 time of ten point something seconds), it's compact enough to park readily, and it's willing enough to bowl along pleasantly on a half-decent main road.

The ‘GT-Line S’ DCT auto that I drove showed around 44mpg during relaxed driving, or about 40mpg on shorter runs, and - of course - it comes with Kia's usual seven-year 100,000 mile warranty.

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BOCKLETON, TENBURY WELLS, WORCESTERSHIRE - GUIDE PRICES ON APPLICATION A superb commercial mixed farming enterprise with first class turkey unit, modern farm buildings, Grade 2 and 3 arable and grassland, woodland, two dwellings and superior brick barns with potential.

In all about 264.44 acres, 107.01 hectares.

For Sale by Private Treaty as a Whole or in 4 Lots.

Lot 1 - 24,955 bird turkey unit with grain store, biomass boiler house, straw barn and 3 bed cottage (EPC Rating E) and orchard.

About 6.50 acres, 2.63 hectares.

Lot 2 - Modern cattle, sheep and fodder/storage buildings, arable, grassland and woodland.

About 145.66 acres, 58.94 hectares.

Lot 3 - A valuable block of mainly arable land also grassland, woodland and a stone field byre.

About 108.68 acres, 43.98 hectares.

Lot 4 - A superior range of traditional brick barns with development potential, also grain store, paddock, ponds and a 2 bed barn conversion (EPC Rating E).

About 3.60 acres, 1.45 hectares.

Joint Sole Agents - R G & R B Williams

OLDWOOD, TENBURY WELLS, WORCESTERSHIRE – GUIDE PRICE £1,200,000

A simply idyllic small country estate with handsome late Georgian residence, pastureland and ‘Smokey Dragon’ cottage - about 19.02 acres, 7.699 hectares.

Farmhouse Kitchen with Aga, Three Reception Rooms, Conservatory and Cellars, Five Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms, Double Garage and Stabling, Part Walled Gardens, Farm Buildings, Pastureland, Smokey Dragon Cottage. EPC Rating F.

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NASH, LUDLOW, SHROPSHIRE - OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £695,000

WOLVERLEY, KIDDERMINSTER - OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £575,000

A detached period farmhouse in an elevated setting enjoying outstanding rural views.

Farmhouse Kitchen with Rayburn, Three Reception Rooms, Study, Cellar, Five Bedrooms, Three Bath/Shower Rooms, Utility Room, Double Garage and Ample Parking Space, Attractive Large Gardens, Pony Paddock. EPC Rating F.

A splendid and exceptionally well-presented mock Tudor cottage in a private leafy setting.

New 31’5” Kitchen/Family Room with Deluxe Fitted Kitchen, Two Reception Rooms, Three Double Bedrooms, Newly Fitted Bathroom Suite, Garage/Workshop, Brick Paved Parking Area, Level Private Gardens with New Patio, Convenient Semi-Rural Location. EPC Rating E.

COLLEGE GARDENS, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE: £145,000 A semi-detached bungalow on a popular small development conveniently situated within level walking distance of the town centre.

Kitchen, Living Room, Two Bedrooms, Wet Room, Communal Gardens and Parking, EPC Rating C. NO UPWARD CHAIN - IDEAL FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS AND BUY TO LET INVESTORS.

ST MARY’S CLOSE, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE £365,000 A well-appointed detached bungalow in a highly sought after residential area close to the town centre.

Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Sitting Room, Conservatory, Master Bedroom with Ensuite, Second Double Bedroom, Shower Room, Attractive Gardens, Detached Garage and Workshop, Driveway Parking. EPC Rating D.

MARKET SQUARE, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE £100,000 A spacious and charming period apartment within the town centre Conservation Area.

Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Living Room, Two Double Bedrooms, Bathroom. EPC Rating E.

HAMPER FAYRE A visit to Hamper Fayre, by the Bridge in Teme Street, Tenbury Wells, will reveal an array of products sourced both locally and from further afield.

We are supporting Local Artisan Producers from Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire wherever possible, as we believe in supporting local families and the local economy.

If you want to create a bespoke Hamper as a Gift for a Friend or Loved One then please come and choose from either Traditional Wicker Hampers or from a variety of Eco Friendly Kraft Hamper Boxes and fill them with items of your own personal choice to precisely suit the tastes of the lucky recipient!

But remember... anything can be bought individually as we are a normal shop as well!

You don't have to buy a Hamper!

Choose from Artisan Chocolates, Terrines, Pa. te/ s, Cheeses, Savouries, Nibbles, Jams and Pickles, Cakes, Confectionery and Snacks.

We can arrange for you to collect from the Shop if you want to personally present the Gift, or we can arrange for it to be shipped to anywhere in the UK by DHL Couriers.

We have a range of Quality Fine Wines suitable for all occasions and palates, backed up by a huge array of Local Beers, Ciders and Spirits.

Opening Times: 10.00am to 4.00pm Tuesday to Saturday inclusive.

Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Contact Us: Mobile: 07836 263760 Landline Tel: 01584 781122 Email: info@hamperfayre.co.uk Online: www.hamperfayre.co.uk Visit Us: Hamper Fayre 59-61 Teme St Tenbury Wells WR15 8AE

HAMPER FAYRE

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