Teme Valley Times Jubilee Edition (June/July 2022)

Jubilee Edition

FREE Issue No. 93

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Tenbury celebrates Platinum Jubilee A full day of events on Sunday 5th June signalled Tenbury’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The day began at 10.30am with a Civic procession led by Tenbury Town Band. The parade marched along Teme Street and Market Street ending at St Mary’s Church for a service of thanksgiving and celebration at 11am.

From 1pm the Burgage hosted many activities including a free climbing wall, stalls from the Scouts, Tenbury Pool and Freedom Leisure, a BBQ, Jersey milk stand and a Platinum Jubilee Cup football tournament. On stage, Tenbury’s Mayor, Cllr Eric Hudson, opened proceedings, then an almost continuous stream of performances followed, from 1pm to around 6pm, when a free outdoor screening of ‘Mary Poppins’ was to end the day.

Performances from Tenbury Town Band, Ludwig Theatre Arts, Tenbury Primary School, Dancefest, Tenbury RBL Choir, Regal Community Theatre and Regal School of Creative Arts filled the afternoon with dance and singing!

Elsewhere, for those over 60, a rather delicious complimentary cream tea was available from the Civic Garden’s pavilion, complete with friendly and efficient table service to the covered seating.

On the Saturday and Sunday, from 11am till 4pm, Tenbury Wells Museum and History Society held a commemorative exhibition in Tenbury’s Pump Rooms. On display were some domestic artefacts from the 1950’s, national and local newspapers with their coverage of the Coronation of 27 year old

Souvenir programme at the Museum’s exhibition in the Pump Rooms

Elizabeth, souvenirs, original programmes of Tenbury’s Coronation Celebration on 1st June 1953, plus displays of photographs from the Queen’s other Jubilees.

A board listing 70 facts about the Queen provided fascinating and surprising reading. Over the two days around 230 visitors visited the exhibition, including 22 children. It was delightful to read about the Coronation in The Times Coronation supplement of June 1953 and study the black and white photos of the ceremony, then take a stroll to the Regal Cinema to watch the ceremony in glorious Technicolor at one of the three sceenings of “A Queen is Crowned” - the Rank Organisation’s documentary narrated by Laurence Olivier!

The Regal’s window display

The film screening

Above and below: Ludwig Theatre Arts performances

Tenbury Primary School Choir

The Tale of the Cockatrice

Jane Eyre

Mumblecrust Theatre present children’s show The Tale of the Cockatrice at The Courtyard in July. Deep in the vaults of an ancient priory a hideous creature awakens. A deadly cockatrice is born and while bold knights flee in terror, will a humble nun be able to defeat the beast?

Multi-Award-Winning Mumblecrust Theatre present two muddle-headed storytellers, an obscure British legend, puppetry and evocative live music in this dark and winding fable for monster-lovers young and old.

Combining storytelling and live music; puppetry and object theatre; and history and fiction, Mumblecrust invent and reinvent the weird and wonderful, drawing on well-known stories and legends.

The company comprises actor, puppeteer and designer Katie, and performer, composer, and director Anthony. The pair have collaborated on a number of other projects, including satirical music video Tawdry Child, Pinecone Penguin’s King Kong the Musical, puppeteering the Mermaid in Luc Mollinger’s creature feature short Battered and co-directing (and creating puppets for) new musical Heartwood.

The Tale of the Cockatrice is part of The Courtyard’s ‘Family Saturdays’ programme where The Courtyard hosts an event for all the family every Saturday morning.

Family Saturdays include workshops, films, shows and extra activities for all the family to enjoy, at an affordable price. Each Saturday morning event at 11am has a free pre-activity from 10.30am.

The Tale of the Cockatrice will be in The Courtyard’s Studio Theatre on Saturday 9 July at 11am.

The Courtyard is delighted to announce that its latest Pro-Am (professional/amateur) production, for autumn 2022, will be Jane Eyre. Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece will be brought to life by The Courtyard in Polly Teale’s striking adaptation of the classic novel. The story is an unforgettable portrayal of one woman’s trailblazing quest for equality and freedom.

Courtyard Associate Director, David Durant will direct Jane Eyre, and has directed previous Courtyard Pro-Am productions including Great Expectations, Pride and Prejudice and Lord of the Flies.

“It is a real joy to have the opportunity to put on a production with a very mixed cast of youth theatre members, professional and community-based actors.” Says David, “It brings together everything that is best about the arts where there is learning, fun and success. And when that is coupled with an outstanding story of a much-loved classic; it makes for a very enjoyable project to be involved with.”

From the cruelty of Jane’s childhood to the tempestuous secrets of her adult life, this production revels in the passions of one of literature’s most loved heroines. As a child, the orphaned Jane is taught to stifle her natural vivacity. A part of herself is locked away, out of view of polite society, until she arrives at Rochester’s house as a governess to his young child.

Soon Rochester’s passionate nature reawakens Jane’s hidden self, but darker mysteries are stirring in the attic.

English poet and novelist, Charlotte Brontë was the eldest of the three Brontë sisters. She published Jane Eyre in 1847 under the pseudonym Currer Bell to hide the fact that she was a female author.

Speculation arose around her sex when her sister, Emily Brontë, published Wuthering Heights under the pen name Ellis Bell and the book was judged by critics as being improper due to its coarse writing. However, sales continued to soar, and it has become one of the most famous romance novels of all time.

Jane Eyre will be in The Courtyard’s Main House from Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 October. For a full list of times, dates and prices visit courtyard.org.uk or contact Box Office on 01432 340555.

Tue 4 - Sat 8 Oct 2022

BY CHARLOTTE BRONTË A D A P T E D B Y P O L LY T E A L E

BOX OFFICE 01432 340555 In partnership with

courtyard.org.uk

Detail from Balmoral Castle

Orleton Celebrates the Jubilee The flower ladies, from left: Ann Jenkins, Pauline Betteridge, Judith Sanders, Barbara Butler, Anna Read, Eileen Shillcock. (Sue Copson missed the photo)

Flower Festival This took place in St George’s Church. Due to the quality of their displays over the years, Orleton has attracted many visitors who have remarked favourably on their artistry. Its flower team, led

by Anna Read, is certainly talented and their expertise was fully utilised at their latest festival.

The arrangements were sponsored by local businesses including Ian MacKay Electricals, Meet and Eat Club, HiTrees Ltd, Orleton & District Gardening Club, B P & Son Plumbing & Heating Engineers and The Maidenhead Inn. The theme for the Festival was the royal residences: Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, The Tower of London, Sandringham House and Balmoral Castle.

Beautiful fragrant lilies

Scarecrows People could tour Orleton and follow this Royal themed trail, with a leaflet showing where the scarecrows were located, and the public were encouraged to vote for their favourite.

The photos show a few of the entries.

Detail from The Tower of London

Detail from Windsor Castle

The ‘Queen’ seated outside The Boot Inn

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Mischievous Corgi on the throne

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MP “appalled”

by Barclays Ludlow MP Philip Dunne MP has said he is “appalled” by a decision by Barclays Bank to close branches in Ludlow and Bridgnorth. Barclays have announced that from Friday 26th August 2022 they will be closing branches at High Street, Bridgnorth and King Street, Ludlow. They cite the change to online and mobile banking as the reason behind the closures.

Mr Dunne said, “This is another example of Barclays choosing to abandon rural communities with further branch closures. Both Ludlow and Bridgnorth have a significant population of elderly and vulnerable people, who may not use the branch daily, but rely on a local branch presence when they need help and advice.

With these closures, there will be no Barclays branches left in the Ludlow Constituency. I will be demanding a meeting with Barclays management to make the case for them to rethink these planned closures, and show they value their rural customers in South Shropshire.”

Trout Fishing Pools set to Reopen Orchard Holiday Park and Fishery is reopening its trout fishing pools in St Michaels, Tenbury Wells. The reopening is being done in a phased approach, one pool at a time. Mr Jones said “We reopened our first pool, called the nursery pool, on Saturday 30th April. This pool can comfortably fish three fishermen. Day tickets, bookable in advance, due to operating with limited fishermen. Once works have been completed at the end of autumn 2023, there will be a total of three trout fly fishing pools covering approximately 2.5 acres.

Getting the pools back to how they used to be will be a project that not only benefits our own touring caravan park, but the wider community as a whole.” Mr Jones said.

If you are a trout angler or have a keen interest in trout fishing, more details can be found at orchardholidaypark.co.uk/fish

APPLEFEST Anton Schooley, on behalf of the organisers of Tenbury Applefest, told us that “Plans are developing well for this year’s Applefest on 1st October on Tenbury’s Burgage. As usual there will be the popular Frank Mathews display of over 300 varieties of apple, as well as identification, juicing and sales. Local ciders will be represented by Robinsons, Oldfields and others, made with fruit from the fields of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire.

“For families and children there will be an Apple Trail of knitted apples on the stalls and around the grounds, with each having a letter. These will spell a sentence and each family that completes it will be rewarded with a small prize. Additionally plans are in place for face painting, a strolling magician and a Town Crier.

“As well as the numerous trade and craft stalls and demonstrations, there will be food and drink and a licensed bar. Music and entertainment shall be by the Pearl Lake Ukulele Group, Blue Moon, Teme Valley Band, Leominster Morris Dancers, the Nick and Jane Duo and others. The town’s windows will have the opportunity to participate in the Applefest window competition, judged by one of the main sponsors, Kerry foods, including a people’s choice. Applefest provides a low-cost entertaining and fun day out for all.”

What’s On! CHARITY CONCERT

Advertise your local event or club from just £10 in the Teme Valley Times! £10 covers a simple What’s On! advert with up to 25 words.

Extra words, if required, are 25p each. To advertise, email temevalleytimes@yahoo.co.uk or ring 07946 270523.

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!

Leominster Car Boot Sale Field behind the OK Diner over the bridge.

Every Sunday, weather permitting.

Buyers from 9am Open for sellers from 8am No booking required Toilets available Come on down and bag a bargain!

Free public admission

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Burford Church Fete Sunday 17th July 2pm-4pm Stalls, Teas, Teddy zip wire, Games, Tenbury Town band.

At Burford Church.

Entry £1, Children Free

LITTLE HEREFORD VOICES

Ukraine Relief

TENBURY METHODIST CHURCH

Sat 25th June – 2.30pm

£5 - Additional Donations Welcome Rafle - Refreshments Proits to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal

Presenting a varied programme of music for all to enjoy. Join 'LHV' as they celebrate their 10th year.

Tickets: Brimield shop, Teme Wheels (5 Teme Court), or on the door.

“Man and Van” MP celebrates Local Cider!

WANTED To collect a pallet from Oxford and deliver to Tenbury every couple of months.

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West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has been presented with an award by the cider maker’s association: Harriett has lobbied the Government for a better tax regime to encourage smaller producers to expand.

Harriett was presented with an award

by Teme Valley cider producer Geoff Thompson, of Oldfields Cider, together with his daughter Eliza, at a reception in the House of Commons. Harriett said that she had been a regular visitor to Geoff’s farm and that she had heard about the challenges involved in growing apples and producing high quality cider for domestic and international sales.

Harriett commented “Over recent years the Government has listened to feedback to help to treat cider makers more fairly and I met the Exchequer Secretary .... to raise the issue of tax on fruit ciders which are treated like wine for duty purposes. I will continue to be a strong voice for local farmers and local food producers across West Worcestershire.”

James Crampton, Chair of the National Association of Cider Makers, added,

Eliza Thompson, Harriett Baldwin MP, Geoff Thompson “The MPs who were recognised this evening go above and beyond to ensure that our small, rural industry is recognised for its great contribution to the UK and to British culture. It was great to finally gather people together to say thank you for their support

and for making sure that cider making and cider apple growing remain a priority for the Government. The continued support of these MPs is critical to sustain the livelihoods of the 11,500 people that rely on the industry.”

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Joyful Jubilee Summer Fayre Tenbury’s St Mary’s Church held a ‘Joyful Jubilee’ Fayre on June 4th. Well-attended, despite unusually chilly June weather, visitors could enjoy teas while listening to the Teme Valley Band’s toetapping tunes, find healthylooking young runner bean plants on the well-stocked plant stall, or let youngsters loose on the bouncy castle.

The cake stall sold out by the end of the afternoon and many enjoyed a win on the bottle tombola. Some took the opportunity to dress in Jubilee colours (red, white and blue) and lovely ‘lucky button holes’ were on sale at £1 - an easy and attractive purchase to help with fundraising.

There was a ‘guess the name of the bear’ competition to win the large bear; options for his name included Boris,

Rupert, Barney and Danny.

Skittles, second-hand books, Tenbury WI tombola, bric-a-brac and grand prize draw tickets all helped with fundraising. It was great to see so many enjoying a chat and a catch-up - with or without tea or coffee!

Looking to the future

by Dr Ken Pollock, former County Councillor for Tenbury In early May, council elections saw a swing towards the Green Party, so they now hold six seats in Worcester City and effectively the balance of power. The party is seriously concerned about an impending climate catastrophe and as a result is determined to see a change in energy use in this country – and all others, for that matter.

Naturally fossil fuels are to be phased out, as fast as feasible, it seems. The current concern is with the spiralling cost of energy as experienced by the general public, through the price of electricity, gas and fuel for vehicles.

The distribution of these increases concerns journalists, and politicians are keen to claim that their party has better ideas than the others to assist those most in need.

What is not at issue is that the use of gas for home heating and cooking is under threat. The government has promised to ban the installation of new gas boilers and at least one Lib Dem administration has anticipated this ruling by rejecting a housing development that planned to use natural gas from the grid.

What is the alternative? The first suggestion would be air source heat pumps, (ASHP) drawing energy from the atmosphere to heat homes, for hot water and cooking. If the possible increased cost of current energy supplies of anything as much as £3,000 is worrying, consider how the average householder would contemplate spending anything around £10,000 on an ASHP… Without mentioning the need for space – not

easy in a tower block – or the consequent noise, most homes would need to be better insulated – another £15-20,000!

Who would pay that? If we are worried now, how will we face that future in a few years?

For some this is unnecessary. Use hydrogen! The first point to emphasise is that hydrogen is like electricity: it is a way of moving energy around. It is not a source of energy.

So, you “make” hydrogen, and it comes out “blue” or “green”. Blue if you break down natural gas, largely methane, to hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Tricky, as the latter is a greenhouse gas, so you have to capture it and store it. Possible, but it all takes more “energy”!

Or you electrolyse water, of which we have a lot.

That produces hydrogen and oxygen – the latter harmless, even beneficial! But again, it takes energy, or electricity. That can come from fossil fuels, but they are forbidden. So, it comes from renewable sources – wind and solar – but they are intermittent and expensive.

Yes, they are costly. Our subsidies to their generators are worth about £11 billion a year, however much they like to hide that figure.

Now we have hydrogen to use in our homes.

Our gas boilers can be converted in 60-90 minutes (each, and we have about 20 million of them…) but our gas grid is 25% metal. We need to replace that section with yellow plastic pipes, or the hydrogen will leak out before it reaches your home. By the way, the plastic pipes are made from fossil fuels, but don’t mention that

to the Greens. Too tricky…

From 2030, the government has said no more sales of new cars using petrol or diesel. The existing fleet of around 32 million internal combustion engine (“ICE”) vehicles will last many years after that, but the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) seems inexorable.

All in the cause of saving the climate, but there are problems. Over their lifetime, EVs probably use as much energy as an “ICE” vehicle, so no real benefit. Plus, they need a vast amount of electricity to charge their batteries.

Never mind the tiny number we have now – imagine the need when we have north of 30 million of them!

And how far do they go on a charge? Range anxiety is still with us, and the figures for range quoted by the makers are the best possible. Try driving at night, in rain, in winter, with the heating on, listening to the radio! The range may be halved…

And they catch fire! Rare, yes, but devastating.

The boss of Chevrolet advises never leaving an EV on charge overnight and unsupervised. All EV buses in Paris were taken off the road after two caught fire during use. A bus in Germany caught fire in a garage and every vehicle there was destroyed. Electric scooters on charge in India have caught fire, causing a number of deaths, and the Transport Ministry has ordered an enquiry.

The problem is you can’t put the fire out. You have to just let it burn and keep clear, as the gases given off are dangerous.

Why don’t we read about these problems now?

Some try warnings, but the prevailing mood is optimistic, or at least believing the worst predictions of the alarmists, and it does not do to challenge them. Those Green councillors in Worcester all seem such reasonable people…

Anyone who challenges them must be a “denier” a term that has been applied to those who don’t believe the holocaust took place!

Teme Valley Times: our main circulation area and how to contact us Phone: 07946 270523 Email: temevalleytimes@yahoo.co.uk Online: www.temevalleytimes.co.uk 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.

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

Last Supper in Leominster Currently installed at Leominster Priory, this Sculpture is a remarkable example of recycling and well worth a look!

Artist Peter Barnes commented “The Last Supper Sculpture was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, and completed in December 2019. My aim was to recreate the painting as an abstract three dimensional form; I wanted to keep the detail to a minimum while retaining all the expression and interaction of

the characters. It is my intention for the sculpture to do a pilgrimage of the Cathedral and large Churches and it began in Chester Cathedral on the 16th March 2020. I wanted this sculpture to be finished with a mosaic but not in the conventional way. I realised that a computer keyboard is made up of squares which could be used as tiles. This led me to thinking of the possibilities; the letters, numbers and symbols could be utilised to

create further interest and meaning.

There are quotes from the Bible threaded throught the mosaic. I lost count of the number of keyboards used but it will be in excess of 50,000 keys.”

Tenbury WI Centenary On Monday 11th April, President Monica Rees and the members of Tenbury Wells WI held their Centenary Lunch at The Peacock Inn near Tenbury. They were delighted to welcome their guests - Worcestershire Federation President Sue White, WI Advisor Pat Jewkes and St Michaels President Jenny Hooker.

The first meeting of Tenbury WI took place on 27th January 1922 with a Mrs Elton as the President.

It was described as a “social afternoon to include the enrolment of the members”; members paid a membership fee of two shillings.

The remainder of Tenbury’s meetings this year will include a speaker each month with subjects reflecting the 1922 programme but with a modern

twist, as well as planned outings and their monthly coffee mornings at local venues.

For more information contact President Monica Rees tenburywellspres@wfedwi.org.uk

PARISH CLERK BENCHED! On Tuesday May 25th, Karen Yates, long-serving Clerk to Knighton-on-Teme Parish Council, was presented with a bench to mark her retirement from the position.

The photograph shows councillors (Parish, District and County) gathered with Karen, outside Knighton-onTeme Parish Rooms.

Martley Jubilee Celebrations Martley held their Jubilee celebrations on the Thursday 2 and Friday 3 June.

Thursday saw a huge ‘street party’ on the playing fields with games, BBQ, bar, music and entertainment culminating with a walk up to the top of Berrow Hill for a torch-lit and glow-stick gathering as the beacon was lit.

On Friday, celebrations included a Treasure hunt for children and family walk around the village, with complimentary refreshment stops, led by local historians and ‘celebrities’ where you could learn more about the history and secrets (!) of Martley village.

Photos by Brian Finch and Juliet John.

Spacehopper races

Friends enjoying the day!

The ‘Cookery through the decades’ WI display in Martley Church included a fashionable cake recipe for each decade

The Beacon is lit

Crowds walk up to the beacon on Berrow Hill

SUPPLIERS OF FRESH LOCAL LAMB, BEEF AND PORK 10 varieties of home-made Sausages

JOIN TS - CHOPS - STEAKS Home-cooked meats cooked on the premises

Reg May’s Artisan Pies All our bacon is traditionally home-cured Plain or Smoked Middle - Streaky - Back

We would like to thank everyone for the support given since we opened our Tenbury Wells shop on 14th September 2021 and for the very warm welcome.

Queuing for the BBQ with the Queen

Richard RainbirdHitchins doing a great job at the BBQ

Lindridge Platinum Jubilee Celebrations A free to attend community event took place at Lindridge Parish Hall in Eardiston on Saturday June 4, as part of the official Platinum Jubilee weekend. It hosted a variety of family friendly entertainment and activities to commemorate the Queen’s 70th Jubilee.

The event opened at 1pm and during the afternoon around 200 attendees took their spot on the Parish Hall car park in true street party fashion! Guests enjoyed lovely live music from ‘Jane & Nick’, a free BBQ with burgers and sausages, bar and the first 100 people could also tuck into a free royal cream tea. Marquees hosted free children’s craft activities, face painting and royal themed memorabilia. A very pleasant and enjoyable gathering.

An entry in the cake competition

Delicious Summer punch

A scarecrow arrives for judging

Jane (on mandolin) and Nick (on guitar) began with some ABBA covers

Enjoying the afternoon!

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!

LOCAL PRODUCE SUPPORTING LOCAL PEOPLE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE 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)

HAMPER FAYRE

From South Africa to Tenbury Wells...

Sarah and Antony Le Roux have certainly come a long way! As the crow flies it’s around 5,700 miles from the suburbs of Pretoria, in South Africa, to Newnham Bridge, just a few miles from Tenbury Wells.

A year ago they took over as owners of the well-regarded Bonnie’s Pet Supplies and together they now run the shops in Tenbury and Bromyard - Sarah being based at the Tenbury shop and Antony at the Bromyard shop.

To celebrate their first birthday in July, there will be a month-long series of promotions, giveaways and competitions so this is the perfect opportunity to go along and say hello and celebrate with them.

The two shops are veritable Aladdin’s caves of pet products, being packed from ceiling to floor with probably everything a pet owner might need to look after their pet! Whether you are looking for the big brands like Royal Canin and Canagan, or aquarium supplies, food for chinchillas, rabbits or hedgehogs, bird feeders, grooming brushes, budgie supplies, hamster or ferret supplies, Monsoon or Muddy Paws coats - you will probably find it in store. If not, the goods can be ordered in for you. Both shops offer a carry to car service for those large heavy items and also weekly delivery runs to assist people who find it difficult to get into the shop or who don’t have a car and order heavy stock.

The shops stock an immense range of pet ‘treats’ in a multitude of shapes, sizes, ingredients and tastes, even peanut butter flavour! For those who just want a quick purchase their £1 bags of dog biscuits and bird feeds (peanuts, sunflower seeds, fat balls) are proving ever-

Sarah Le Roux in the Tenbury Shop popular.

An extensive medical section contains treatments for most common ailments including fleas and even kits, to deal with a cut paw, which come with a protective boot. A dog tag service is available, helping dog owners stay legal as all dogs must wear a collar and ID tag when out in public.

Sarah said “We have always had our own businesses and pride ourselves in top-notch customer service. Our shops stock ranges to suit all budgets - but we major on good quality and are often very competitive with supermarkets

and the dedicated large pet stores - so come and see what we have on offer. You might be surprised!

We are right on your doorstep and the shops are open 6 days a week, 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am till 5pm on Saturday.”

She added “We can give you advice and have a wealth of information available and every four-legged friend that comes in can have a complimentary treat. We have been made so welcome by the friendly locals in Tenbury and Bromyard alike - we are very happy and content to be here.”

Commemorative Bench at Cricket Club On Saturday 14th May, Knighton-on-Teme Cricket Club hosted their first home game of the season, against Builth Wells 2nd Eleven. The glorious spring weather and the preparation of the ground made for an excellent setting for the pre-match presentation of a new bench to commemorate past players.

The bench was donated by the family of the late Tony Williams, to remember not just Tony - who played for the club from 1945-1960 - but also to remember those who played with him.

Tony’s wife Vera was present, along with their children Barry, Robert, Katie and Jill. A host of former players, friends and family also attended.

For many, the afternoon was a trip down memory lane, with tales of Tony, and of sheep on the outfield, electric fences and amazing teas. Vera recalled when he was injured during a match and called in at the doctor’s house on the way home, rather than take a trip to hospital.

The event was coordinated by Barbara Jones, whose husband Terry played with Tony. Barbara commented “Knighton-onTeme cricket club would like to thank the family of the late Tony Williams for the kind, generous gift of a seat engraved with the names of players who played alongside Tony during his time at the club”.

David Chance, the club’s current director of cricket, said “In the club’s 102-year history, it has been blessed by many great

players and clubmen who have given so much to the club over the years. This week’s presentation of a fabulous new bench, by the family of Tony Williams, is a fitting reminder of how much the club means to us all; not just those playing today, but those who have long since hung up their boots, but still come down to the ground to share the beautiful surroundings, and have such lasting and valued memories of the club. It is a great honour for the club to receive the bench, and a fitting tribute to Tony that so many turned up to be part of the presentation.”

David added, “The club is in good shape and keen for the next 100 years, but we could always do with new blood, whether young or experienced, or just keen to be a part of the setup. We would gladly welcome new members, and anyone interested can contact us through our Facebook page”.

Eager to please the crowd on the day, Knighton-on-Teme went on to win the match with a ten wicket victory!

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Harpley Plant and Cake Sale Tucked away at St Bartholomew’s Church, Harpley on May 28th, an enjoyable plant and cake sale took place, raising funds for the church.

A serious collection of plants was available to browse with a humorous inflation-beating deal being offered on a couple of small Picea Glauca Conica conifers.

The notice read “Purchase one of these Christmas trees for £4.95. Occasionally repot the tree. In December 2032 just add some fairy lights. Even

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Other plants on offer included variegated geraniums, Canna Lilies, Black Lilyturf, Trifolium Rubens, hellebores, Wine Eyed Jill dahlias and asters. A good range of cherry tomato plants at 50p were on offer. Varieties included Gardeners Delight, Sakura F1 hybrid (red), Golden Crown (yellow) and Black Opal (dark red).

Inside the church there were cakes to buy, including huge sponges plus a mouth-watering collection of tray bakes to enjoy with a cuppa!

The very warm welcome helped make this a lovely event, for plant-hunters and cake-eaters alike.

There are plans to make some alterations to the church, to provide a new kitchen area and an accessible WC. Work would also include returning the early Norman font to the old St Bartholomew’s church at Lower Sapey, now in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust.

Lovely quality plants

Harpley Church, by Frederick Kempson, built in 1877 to replace the 12th century church at Lower Sapey

Plenty of choice!

Pat Savage and Marion West served refreshments

LOCAL SERVICES Advertise in this section from just £42 for the rest of this year. This is for the smallest, simplest black & white option (for an example, see the 'Fencing' advert below). This section is aimed at businesses that provide a service at the customer's premises. Examples include plumbers, electricians, plasterers, washing machine repairs and lawn mowing.

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St Michaels Jubilee Celebrations

Tony and Janet Penn plant the field maple in the churchyard after the celebration service Platinum Jubilee weekend events included a 50’s Night with buffet supper and music, a Sunday morning service at St Michaels & All Angels church in celebration of Her Majesty’s 70th Jubilee, a tree planting, and an afternoon of fun and games at a bring-your-own-foodto-share party in the village hall.

Rev Sue Foster led the church service which involved eight hymns, readings and a poem composed by Ros Plested for the event. By all accounts it was a great success with St. Michaels Choir, together with Roger Judd the Organist Emeritus, giving a strong lead.

After a celebratory glass of Pimms, Tony and Janet Penn

presented and planted a sapling they had collected at the Lord Lieutenant’s Garden Party at Hartlebury Castle on May 30th, marking the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Local tree specialists Frank Matthews had donated 350 field maple (Acer campestre) saplings for that event, as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, so it was perfect for one of them to come back home, so to speak!

At the village hall party, Peter Cole judged and presented the awards for best cakes, junior and senior.

Coronation mugs were distributed to the children and there was a sing-song with Bryan Fisher on the piano.

St Michaels Teddy Bears

and more, and you can see the resulting exhibition in St Michaels Church, just outside Tenbury, until the end of June, if all goes to plan.

Why not pop along and picture yourself walking down The Mall to the Palace and see the royal bears on the balcony and the queen bear on her throne surrounded by the teddy bears’ picnic. Donations are very welcome to Young Lives vs Cancer in support of a young lady from Tenbury Wells.

St Michaels Knit & Natter group demonstrated their appetite for momentous projects last year when they knitted a truly giant Christmas tree for display in St Michaels church. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee called for something suitably significant. Following a previous appeal for knitted teddies to be used as ‘Buddies’ for children going into hospital, which generated over 100 knitted and crocheted teddies, group member Mary Jordan came up with the idea of temporarily bringing all the teddies together for a grand Queen’s Jubilee garden party teddy bears’ picnic!

All that was needed was a large model of Buckingham Palace plus a Royal family of bears along with their 100 plus guests and all the essential tea party accoutrements. The Shed Men of St Michaels excelled themselves by turning a piece of 8x4 board (kindly donated by Buildbase of Woofferton) into a replica of Buckingham Palace and two sentry boxes. Adrian Taylor, Simon Dulson and Vernon Albert (pictured), helped by Chris Holloway and Mike Jordan, sorted the design and fabrication, and Andy Cook brought the palace to life with his artistic painting.

The Knit & Natter group, together with friends, relations and the wider community, knitted and crocheted tea cups, more bears, sandwiches, tea pots

A packed village hall for the ‘street party’ which was to have been held outside - but cold and damp weather on the day saw it brought indoors

Several villagers ‘stepped in’ to accompany the Morris Dancers including a piper, Gregg, and Andy Cook on the fiddle

The queen bear One of the many bears lining ‘The Mall’

The royal balcony

Bears in bearskins!

Picnic delicacies

Back row (L to R) The Shed Men Vernon Albert, Simon Dulson and Adrian Taylor with members of the Knit & Natter group

Nom end

Burwarton Show is Back!

Burwarton Show on Thursday 4 August is a traditional agricultural show and a fantastic day out in the wonderful Shropshire countryside catering for all ages.

All the usual attractions are present with emphasis on local crafts,

conservation, sheep shearing, trade stands, shopping arcade, craft market, handicrafts, horticulture.

Competition is fierce with classes for heavy horses, cattle, sheep, pigs and horses. Entries close on 8 July - enter online or by mail.

As you move around the showground you will see the Aldabra Giant Tortoises who love a fuss and tickle, the Dyfed-Powys Mounted Specials with the 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards mascot, the ‘Countryside Remembered’ stand, displaying a fully-operational 1960s Simplex portable milking bail, complete with life-size cows! The Food Hall will include a Cookery Theatre hosted by the Wot’s Cooking team – definitely something to look out for. Also, not to be missed is the very popular rare-breed poultry display.

Main Ring entertainment includes the daredevil stunts of the Squibb Freestyle Motocross display team and The Atkinson Action Horses with their team of highly skilled horses and riders who promise to thrill, excite and astonish you with their high energy breath-taking stunt shows.

The Panic Circus team - a modern non-animal social circus providing hands-on family fun activities - will entertain in the Children’s play area, whilst the ever-popular Village Green programme runs throughout the day with Magic Russ, Punch and Judy, the Church Stretton Accordion Band and Helen Pearson singing.

Mark Yar Tenbury S

The Showground is at Cleobury North WV16 6RP on the B4364 between Bridgnorth and Ludlow and parking is free. Pre-Show ticket prices are £18 for adults and £8 for juniors (12-16 years) whilst accompanied children 11 years and under enter FREE. E-tickets are available online at www.burwartonshow. co.uk until 6pm on Wednesday 3 August. Tickets on Show day will be adults £20 and juniors £10 - or avoid the queues, save money and buy advance tickets on-line!

@Burwarton_show o

BURWARTON SHOW THURSDAY 4 AUGUST 2022

• Trade Stands • Shopping Arcade • Food Hall • Handicrafts • Horticulture • WI • Poultry Display • Craft Demonstrations • Sheep Shearing

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LIVESTOCK, EQUINE, HANDICRAFT AND HORTICULTURE, TRADESTANDS DS S & YOUNG FARMERS

JAMIE JAM SQUIBB FREESTYLE STUNT DISPLAY STU

Entries close 8 July

Livestock & Equine - enter on-line at www.burwartonshow.co.uk Pre-Show discounted tickets available on-line Children 11 years and under - FREE entry T: 01746 787535 E: info@burwartonshow.co.uk

www.burwartonshow.co.uk

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rnold on the Nomark stand at the 2019 Show

nold, of Nomark Equip, told us “It is with dness that Mark and Anne Yarnold are very long and successful relationship with That relationship started in 1988 when they aha ATVs whilst working with Mark’s father, neral agricultural machinery. Then in 1998 nne set up their own business (Nomark Burford, to specialise in Yamaha ATVs pment. The business grew successfully to one of Yamaha’s biggest single site dealers, ainly to farmers, smallholders and equine s. With a large stock of parts and workshop Nomark prides itself on giving a personal, efficient service to its customers, hence tomers return and have been buying from we started. onship is ending because of huge global n the way Yamaha wish their dealers to operate in the future. The enhanced visual long with the ‘customer journey’ is what believe to be the future direction of their

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Entertainment from Cavalry of Heroes Stunt Display Team, Paws for Thought Dog Display Team, The Sheep Show, Stuart Barnes Dog & Duck Display and much, much more.

National Young Farmers Tug of War Finals, National Hereford eford S Show, how National Ryeland Sheep Show, The Poultry Show, Tractor Pulling.

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AUDIOLOGISTS EXPANDS SERVICES IN LOCAL TOWNS Business is booming for Andrew Bird Hearing as it has expanded its healthcare services 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 not believe in pushy tactics or pressure

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 is detected, the more successful the

• 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

We’re a family-run independent hearing company.

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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.

Great Witley Jubilee Celebrations

Parishioners of Great Witley and Hillhampton were invited to join the celebrations of Her Majesty’s 70th Platinum Jubilee at Great Witley village hall at 1.30pm on Sunday 5th June.

On arrival they were greeted with vouchers for a pig roast, ice cream and a soft drink to help things along. Other activities included fancy dress, teas and cakes, bar, bouncy castle and a live jazz band.

Photos by Anne Walter

Helping with the teas in Great Witley Village Hall

Under 11’s fancy dress competitors

Leysters Jubilee Celebrations

Families enjoyed picnics together

Lyn with her mum, landlady Joy Pember

Scot with garlic!

This knitted example won first prize in the adult crown competition

The tables inside the village hall were packed

Three matches for a win on the human slot machine!

Crowns and tiaras galore, shared picnics, games and a lovely sunny afternoon made for a very enjoyable afternoon at Leysters and Middleton-on-the Hill’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations held at The Duke of York pub in Leysters.

On arrival visitors were welcomed with the gift of a commemorative pen and a free raffle ticket. Plenty

Another ‘Highly Commended’ crown

First prize in the junior crown competition

A ‘Highly Commended’ crown

of parking in fields behind the pub meant there was no problem accommodating the large number of partygoers, and Lyn and her Mum, Joy Pember, were behind the bar, with a seemingly unending - but patient - queue for drinks.

Many thanks to Robin and Heather for some of the photos.

Patriotic dress code was popular

Doddington Church - Jubilee Event

“The Clee Hill area has long been popular with vehicle manufacturers for testing and proving products - here an experimental BMC vehicle passes Doddington church c1964”

New path for step-free access A 4-day exhibition, entitled ‘1952 to 2022 Local Stories Uncovered’, ran from June 2nd to 5th as part of Doddington Church’s Jubilee celebrations.

This fascinating exhibition repaid careful study, so plentiful was the information presented.

A huge amount of work had gone into the displays of local history, old photographs, historical booklets, old newspaper cuttings and documents.

Displays were divided into sections 1950’s, 1960’s 1970’s etc and each section had a ‘Memories’ book if visitors wanted to add their own recollections about the area during that particular decade.

You could learn that gas mantles were still in use at the church in the 1960’s; that in 1893 the Ludlow & Clee Hill Railway was taken over by the Shrewsbury & Hereford Railway: that the 1980’s saw funds raised and a new village hall built; or that 4 Avro Ansons, 3 Bristol Blenheims, 2 Vickers Wellingtons, a Flying Fortress, a Tiger Moth, an American Mustang, a Miles Magister, a Hawker Typhoon, an Airspeed Oxford, a jet Provost, a Harrier Jet, a Junkers 88 and a Heinkel all crashed on the Clees.

There was a short history about the Midland Auto Club’s Clee Hill trial, a booklet about the Boden family of Doddington, and lots more!

If you wanted to take a break from reading, there was a listening corner, with recordings of people recalling memories of living in, or coming to live in, the area. For example,

Harold Deane from Hopton Bank Garage recounted the developments that made the garage what it is today and how the arrival of ‘the canopy’ was a significant event!

This was the first event to be held in the church since a new, 112 yard long, accessible path was laid through the churchyard. It had taken a couple of years of planning and getting permissions before work began last September, and on May 1st church The interior of the church was filled with exhibits members, dancers, Rector Ashley Buck and Fiona Gibson (Archdeacon of Ludlow) took part in the official opening ceremony.

St John’s thanked the local Clee Hill quarry, for providing a considerable amount of material at no or low cost, and local care home Doddington Lodge, who helped raise funds through raffles. Thanks also went to the Garfield Weston Foundation and Shropshire Historic Churches Trust who contributed the Photo of participants in a 1980s sponsored walk, raising bulk of the funding. money for cattle grids. Does anyone recognise themself?

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Historical photo of Hopton Bank garage

Congratulatory telegrams from the Queen and PostmasterGeneral for Mr & Mrs Dolphin’s Diamond (60th) wedding anniversary on Sept 2nd, 1960.

Mr Dolphin was believed to be the oldest sub-postmaster in the country at the time and had been at Doddington for 25 years

Model Railway Exhibition This was a delightful all-day event held in Nash Parish Hall on Saturday 28 May, to help raise funds for the hall’s running costs. A healthy stream of people took time out on the day to go and view the four working model railway layouts. A delicious-looking range of cakes, scones and filled rolls made it easy to help further with fundraising whilst enjoying a cuppa!

Retired local postman John Wormington had brought along his ‘Yellow Stone Ridge’ (American O scale narrow gauge) layout. He started building it about six years ago to run his collection of On30 locos and rolling stock and it took around three years to complete - but as any modeller will tell you there are always new ideas and additions to make! ‘Yellow Stone Ridge’ is a purely fictitious place representing North America in the 1950’s and has a timber mill, a stone crushing plant and small quarry plus a smattering of houses and shops.

John uses a cassette storage system for the different locos and their associated rolling stock which was very efficient when demonstrated, allowing a variety of trains to work along the layout. All his locos are fitted with authentic sound effects, taken from the real trains, which certainly add to the atmosphere.

The layout’s impressive trestle bridge was constructed from 160 pieces of balsa and basswood and many of the buildings were fabricated from wooden coffee stirrers over a card base. Fascinating what can be discovered by chatting to the exhibitors!

For the young, and not so young, John has a regular fun-challenge to encourage careful study of the scene, which is to try and spot the two dogs.

On the other side of the hall Jim Roberts was busy demonstrating the second large layout which was N gauge and about 18 feet long. It hadn’t seen the light of day for around 20 years so this exhibition was an opportunity for a bit of a shakedown! Built by Michael Watts in the early 1990’s, it is titled ‘Charmes, France’ - a supposed station situated somewhere between Marseilles and Valence on the river Drome. The route’s traffic is mainly freight with the occasional handsome TGV whistling through. Great fun.

The trestle bridge made from 160 pieces of wood

John Wormington brought his Yellow Stone Ridge layout to the exhibition The cooperers named ‘Brown-Forman’ after the present-day US business that coopers and crafts Jack Daniels whisky

Activity at the timber mill

The settlement’s general store

Many took time to enjoy a cuppa and have a chat

Clows Top Plant Sale An old saying tells us that “The early bird catches the worm” and that was certainly the case for plant hunters at the Clows Top & District Gardening Club’s annual fundraising plant sale at Clows Top Victory Hall.

The event officially opened at 10am but by 10.15 the long row of tables down one side of the hall was looking decidedly empty as bargains had been snapped up so quickly!

However, you could still find healthy-looking pumpkin seedlings (50p), young tomato plants All sorts of bric-a-brac (50p) and large to look through strawberry plants (50p) plus a few other perennials. Refreshments of tea or coffee and biscuits for 50p helped ease any disappointment, as did the variety of further stalls down the other side of the hall, selling all sorts of interesting and quality bric-a-brac. You could find a collection of Models of Yesteryear, a collection of Ricardo

The plant sale tables just 15 mins after opening!

Galvao jigsaws, jewellery, vintage electrical test meters, Gruffalo board games and lots more. Well worth a visit - but you’d have to be an early bird to catch the best plant bargains!

Jim Roberts runs a train down the ‘Charmes’ layout for visitors

Cleobury Mortimer Platinum Jubilee Events St Mary’s Flower Festival Entitled ‘A Century in Flowers’, this took place in St Mary’s Church from 2nd - 5th June. Organiser Angela Drennan said the exhibition was two years in the planning, Covid having put things back.

Over 20 arrangements were on display, highlighting events from each decade, from the 1920’s to the 2020’s. For example, the 1930’s featured the Wall Street Crash and the 1960’s arrangements reflected ‘The Beatles’, complete with guitar, and the ‘Moon Landing’, complete with an enormous rocket! Other themes included the 2012 Olympics, Margaret Thatcher, World War II and the Queen’s Ruby, Silver, Gold and Diamond Jubilees.

The photos show just a selection of what could be seen at this attractive and thoughtful flower festival.

1940’s World War II wedding by Heather Kippin

Organiser Angela Drennan welcomed visitors to the festival

Moon Landing by Gabrielle Eve 1950’s Coronation TV

by Elizabeth Burton

WW2 by Mick and Gill Clarke

The Queen’s Silver Jubilee by Gabrielle Eve

Part of the 2022 arrangement ‘Pandemic & Ukraine’ by Iris Todd

Cleobury Mortimer Festival 2022

Iris Todd demonstrates the art of spinning in the craft hall

Storytellers were there promoting the ‘Festival at the Edge’ at Hopton Court and enthralled listeners in Lacon Childe School. From left: Helen Stewart, Maria Credali and Andy Harrop-Smith

Guy Gregory of the Pembleton Motor Company brought this new 4-wheeler

Jan Jones was exhibiting the fruits of her lockdown. Unable to play golf she took up woodworking, working with a band saw, transforming hardwood blocks into these beautiful, unusual, imaginatively shaped boxes

On the Saturday, Cleobury Festival - run by the Festival Volunteers Group and supported by Cleobury Mortimer Town Council - took place on the playing field and in Lacon Childe School.

Billed as a day of fun, creativity, celebration and well-being for the whole community, it ran from 10.30am - 4pm. A circus skills zone, three storytellers, a dog show, blue light zone, brass band, art, crafts and youth group stalls were some of the many attractions.

A midday squally shower saw a quick run for cover, but the weather soon dried up for the rest of the afternoon! Storyteller Maria Credali has been working with children at Farlow CofE Primary School to create a new narrative about legendary local postman Simon Evans called ‘Letters through Time’. The new piece combines new and old, through music and the spoken word.

Cleobury WI was promoting its 100th year. Vicky Franklin (L) and Pam Edwards (R) peruse the WI’s programme from 1952; this included a talk on the subject “How to make the best of oneself”

Little Witley Jubilee Celebrations A full complement of events took place on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Little Witley, based around the church and village hall.

The celebrations started on Thursday evening with the lighting of the beacon by Mrs Georgina Britten-Long, Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire. A long procession of villagers, led by a piper, marched from Little Witley Church to the Village Hall for a ‘Jubilee tart & salad’ supper before the lighting of the beacon at 9.45pm, then fireworks, followed by a toast to the Queen.

Friday started with a Thanksgiving Service in the church followed by breakfast of croissant, pastries and fruit to enjoy at the tables set out in the sun. The church was open for the rest of the day for visitors to view the beautiful displays of royal memorabilia and the flower festival.

England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Commonwealth were represented in floral arrangements. You could see an image of the Queen in the pulpit and catch sight of a Corgi by the altar.

On Saturday the Church was open for the flower festival with refreshments, cakes and stalls, and in the evening villagers gathered for a live screening of ‘Platinum Party at the Palace’

Mrs Britten-Long lights the beacon

Mrs Britten-Long, Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire, and Val Gorton, have their photo taken with ‘The Queen’ in the Village Hall, with a pig roast with all the trimmings.

Sunday afternoon saw the village street party take place in the lane by the church.

Organisers John and Val Gorton, who came to be dubbed the Dynamic Duo during the Jubilee preparations, must have been truly heartened to see the good turnout to the events making all the planning and hard work worthwhile.

Photos by Catharine Jarvis.

Abberley Jubilee Celebrations Abberley village held an afternoon of activities on the village green on Sunday 5 June as a Platinum Jubilee celebratory get-together.

The ‘Queen’ arrived on a pony at 12 noon, 1950’s dress was encouraged and you could walk up and down a smart red carpet for the judges and there was also a class for ‘six legs’ fancy dress so that your faithful friend could join

in! other activities included a Young Farmers tug of war, dog show, scarecrow trail and a display in the church. Photos by Anne Walter

Young farmers on the pull!

MALFY GIN ROSA (Tesco £28.00) is a bright and refreshing flavoured gin, with a zesty and citrusy taste of pink grapefruit, and a rich, long juniper finish. It’s distilled in Italy, with botanicals including hand-picked juniper, Italian lemons, and fresh Sicilian pink grapefruit. Summer is on the way, so why not try an Amalfi Sunset Spritz?

Looking very happy!

INGREDIENTS: • 35ml Malfy Gin Rosa • 50ml San Pelligrino Aranciata Rossa • 50ml Prosecco • Orange wheel • Thyme sprig • Strawberry slices Directions: build ingredients in a glass over cubed ice and gently stir to combine. Garnish with an orange wheel, thyme sprig and strawberry slices.

Joining in with 50’s dress despite the drizzle

Bromyard Town Criers Festival A ‘bells up’ from the criers before the competition started Promoting itself as the town of festivals Bromyard’s season of events got off to a ringing start with the Town Criers Festival on 30 April 2022. Ten Town Criers from around the country converged on Bromyard to compete in the day-long event which featured a short parade and ‘first cry’ in the morning followed by a ‘second cry’ in the afternoon after lunch at The Falcon Hotel.

The first or ‘Home Cry’ was used by each crier to extol the virtues of their home town. Facts, figures, associated famous people and maybe the characteristics of the townsfolk were heralded. Andrew Fox from Ilminster in Somerset told us that Ilminster was the first Fairtrade town. Some criers used rhyming verse and Jacquie Hall from Wareham, Dorset, cried, in a lovely deep voice, “Hey diddle diddle, between the Frome and the Piddle, lies Wareham....” which was a great way to learn where Wareham was!

Criers were judged on diction and dress and the second cry of the day was to be on the subject of “Herefordshire”. This year’s winner was Kevin Ward from Bromsgrove. He was National Champion in 2009 and is the great-great-great grandson of Jacob Wilson, the last Town Crier of Birmingham, who died in 1882. He commented: “The competition in Bromyard has been won by previous National, European and World Champion Town Criers so I was extremely pleased, after 20 years of trying, to finally get my hands on this particular trophy”.

Adrian Holmes of Sandwell had a deep clear Black Country voice

Michael Reddy of Warwick

Kevin Ward of Bromsgrove - the eventual winner giving his first cry

Over £11,500 raised for Ukraine Flicks in the Sticks, part of the charity Arts Alive, has helped raise £11,644.57 at Ukraine Support Screenings. 20 rural venues took part in the fundraising efforts, each donating their ticket sales to the cause.

Ian Kerry, Executive Director at Arts Alive and Flicks in the Sticks, said, “It’s testament to the fantastic community spirit that our local Flicks promoters have harnessed over the years, that they were able to raise such a huge amount for the crisis in Ukraine. We are immensely proud of the efforts and generosity of everyone involved.”

Hazel Ockenden who works at Flicks said, “This is an amazing feat considering this has been coordinated by a small team of 2-3 people over the years.”

Water Quality Meeting

Andrew Fox of Ilminster

Marion Lowe of Shipston-on Stour

Severn Trent Water is investing £78m to improve 30 miles of rivers in Warwickshire and Shropshire as part of a scheme to create bathing quality rivers on the Rivers Teme and Leam. Systems have started supplying real time data, with monitors and sampling taking place across 50 locations one of the UK’s most extensive river monitoring programmes.

Ludlow MP Philip Dunne has welcomed this, especially the improvements planned for the Teme. Mr Dunne said “The return of our waterways to a standard fit for bathing is a much-needed and welcome vision from Severn Trent. I have worked closely with Severn Trent to put the River Teme in Ludlow at the forefront of its plans to improve water quality. I look forward to working with local people, interested groups and farmers to find suitable places for safe and healthy enjoyment of the river in and around Ludlow.”

He added “We shall be hosting an event in Ludlow on Friday 29th July to explain more about what is involved to those interested and anyone who would like to attend should contact me at philip.dunne.mp@parliament.uk”

Something unusual for a change?

Here we are looking at wines that have something unusual about them, so if you feel in the mood for a change, why not try one?

White Wine

Sparkling Whites

Prince Charmat Sparkling Wine Brut 12%. Tesco £15 Produced in England, using English grapes, this is very pleasant, with a good number of small bubbles, and a lovely aroma of guava and pear. On the palate it is clean and fresh with some citrus and hints of honeysuckle, apple and peach. A soft bit of sherbet at the end might put some in mind of a soft Prosecco. It's made by the 'Charmat' method, where secondary fermentation takes place in a tank, rather than in the bottle, as it would for Champagne or Cava, for example.

1531 Blanquette De Limoux 2020 Brut 12.5%.

Tesco Finest £9.50 'Blanquette', from the Occitan expression for "(the) small white", appeared in 1531 in papers written by Benedictine monks at an abbey in Saint-Hilaire, but at that time the wine was cloudy because the yeast remained in the bottle. Today's Blanquette De Limoux can use only Mauzac, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay grapes, and Mauzac, which has been described as having 'apple peel' flavours, must make up at least 90% of the mix. This example is a blend of Mauzac and Chenin Blanc.

Well made and unusual, its easygoing taste would be widely acceptable, while its ebullient fizz adds a fun factor.

Vidigal Vinho Verde 2020 9.5%.

Tanners £8.95 (6 or more: £7.45) Vinho Verde is a light and fresh wine that might be an enjoyed on a summer's evening. Many who have visited Portugal may have enjoyed it, but here in England it's much less widely drunk. Vinho Verde is made from local grape varieties that few will have heard of; in this wine Loureiro is the major grape, the others being Trajadura and Arinto. This Vinho Verde has prominent lime flavours so it might go particularly well with oily fish or fish and chips - or some might like to try it as a spritzer.

Bernon Albariño Bodegas Aquitania 2021 12%. Tanners £13.50 (6 or more: £11) This wine is from the Rías Baixas, which is a series of four estuarine inlets on the south western coast of Galicia, in north-west Spain. It's a relatively rainy area and Albariño is a local grape. Fresh and spritzy, with citrus flavours and an aroma of pear drops, this went well with food.

Terra de Lobos, Fernão Pires/Sauvignon Blanc 2020 13%. Tanners £8.50 (6 or more: £7) The Fernão Pires grape is widely grown in Portugal but is not well-known elsewhere. This wine is fresh and lemony, aromatic and refined, and has much in common with various examples of Sauvignon Blanc. Went well with food.

Viñas Del Rey Albariño 2020 13%. Tesco Finest £9.50 Also from the Rías Baixas, this is smooth, with citrus flavours, and might go particularly well with a good piece of fish. It was universally popular and got the thumbs up from all the tasters.

Red Wine D.V. Catena Cabernet Franc Historico 2018 13.5%. Tesco £12 Cabernet Franc is not an unusual grape, and has a long history, for example in France, but it's mainly used in blended wines. This wine, however, is a single varietal, and it's from Argentina. It's also rather good! There's plenty of body, red and black fruit and a dry finish. There are tannins but they are restrained and smooth. It might be a bit dry for some, but it was popular with all the tasters and it should go down a storm with the Sunday roast.

Terra de Lobos, Castelão/Cabernet Sauvignon, Tejo, 2021 14%. Tanners £7.95 (6 or more: £7) Castelão is well-known in Portugal, where this wine comes from, but few in the UK would recognise the name. It can be harshly tannic, but this is not a problem in a well-constructed blend such as this. It's dry, but not harshly so, and there's a surprising amount of dark red - almost jammy - fruit flavours, and it's really rather good. Unusual and popular with all the tasters, this would be just the job with a roast or with strong cheese. It's also surprisingly affordable.

Arbousset Lirac 2020 Julie Rouffignac 14.5%. Tesco £12 This wine is from the southern Rhone Valley. It's a blend of four grapes - Grenache, Shiraz/Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault and the result is smooth and well-balanced. The village of Lirac lies to the west of the Rhone, perhaps seven miles west of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and the terroir isn't vastly different, so it's no surprise that the wines aren't a mile apart. Lirac wines have been known for centuries, indeed Lirac is the oldest wine in the Côtes du Rhône region. It was also the first to be produced in all three colours: red, rosé, and white, and Pope Innocent IV ordered wine from Lirac in 1357. Also a good choice with a traditional Sunday lunch.

Finest Douro 2019 13%. Tesco £10 Douro wine is reasonably well-known, but the names of the grapes that are used are not. This example is made from Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Barroca. Although 'Tinta Roriz' is a grape that rarely springs to mind, it is well-known under its Spanish name: Tempranillo. Despite being Portuguese, this example reminded us of traditional dry French reds, with red and dark plum flavours and a clearly dry finish. It would go well with lamp chops - or even with "boiled beef and carrots"!

S KODA KA ROQ

S KODA FAB IA

19 19 KAROQ 1.0 TSi SE, grey, 20,000 miles, £19,995 …… £19,995

18 68 FABIA 1.0 TSi SEL ESTATE, grey, 24,000 miles ………… £12,450 14 14 FABIA 1.2 SE, blue, 43,000 miles ……………………… £6,450 13 13 FABIA 1.2 TDi Greenline Estate, red, 120,000m ……… £5,250 12 12 FABIA 1.6 TDi SE Plus, blue, 75,000 miles …………… £4,450 07 57 FABIA 1.9 TDi SE, beige, 90,000 miles ………………… £2,995

S KODA Y ETI 17 17 YETI 2.0 TDi SE Drive, green, 51,000 miles………………£16,995 16 66 YETI 1.2 TSi SEL DSG Auto, red, 23,000 miles……………£16,750 16 66 YETI 2.0 TDi SE Business, grey, 62,000 miles……………£15,495 66 66 YETI 2.0 TDi SEL, black, 56,000 miles……………………£15,495 15 65 YETI 2.0 TDi 150 SEL 4x4 DSG, black, 72,000 miles……£14,495 15 64 YETI 1.2 TSi SE DSG, grey, 30,000 miles…………………£14,495 14 64 YETI 1.2 TSi S, white, 18,000 miles………………………£12,995 14 14 YETI 1.2 TSi SE DSG, jungle green, 50,000 miles…………£13,350 14 63 YETI 2.0 TDi Laurin & Klement 4x4, silver, 99,000 miles…£11,995 14 14 YETI 2.0 TDi SE, white, 56,000 miles………………………£11,395 13 13 YETI 2.0 TDi S, beige, 74,000 miles………………………£10,250 11 11 YETI 1.2 TSi SE DSG, grey, 108,000 miles …………………£7,995 12 12 YETI 2.0 TDi Urban, black, 94,000 miles……………………£7,650

SKODA ROO MSTER 14 64 ROOMSTER 1.2 TSi SE, silver, 53,349 miles …………… £6,995 13 13 ROOMSTER 1.6 TDi Scout, grey, 41,000 miles ………… £6,995 13 13 ROOMSTER 1.6 TDi SE, blue, 90,000 miles …………… £5,995

S KO D A C I T I G O 20 20 CITIGOe iV all-electric auto, white, 3,000 miles ……… £19,995 18 18 CITIGO 1.0 SEL Green Tech, blue, 15,000 miles ……… £9,995 15 15 CITIGO 1.0 SE, silver, 17,000 miles ………………….… £6,450

VAUXHALL AGILA 1.2 Automatic, only 14,500 miles!

2010, 60-reg, only 3 owners, MoT to January 2023.

£4,495 07946 270523

SKODA OCTAVIA 17 67 OCTAVIA 2.0 TDi 150 SEL 4x4 ESTATE, blue, 47,000 miles … £16,450 18 18 OCTAVIA 2.0 TDi SE Technology ESTATE, silver, 74,000m… £15,995 16 66 OCTAVIA 2.0 TDi SEL 4x4 ESTATE, 83,000 miles……… £13,995 10 10 OCTAVIA 1.9 TDi 4x4 SE estate, blue 105,000 miles…… £5,995

OVERTON SERVICE STATION HEREFORD ROAD, LUDLOW.

Tel. 01584 872584

Advertise your car in the Teme Valley Times for as little as £5!

For details, email temevalleytimes@yahoo.co.uk

Practical matters often dominate decisionmaking when contemplating a car purchase, perhaps with questions such as "How reliable will it be?", "Is it economical?" and "Is the boot big enough?" Obviously these factors are important, but there is usually more to choosing a car than carrying out a simple tick-box exercise.

For example, most buyers care about looks and relatively few would buy a new car if they disliked its appearance. There is also the fun factor to consider, though some won't give this a second thought, perhaps because they are seeking no more than suitable transport.

However, many will take this into account when making their purchasing decision, and perhaps somewhat unexpectedly - this brings us to Kia's turbocharged one-litre Rio. Let's look at reliability first. Kia has a sound reputation and there's always the reassurance of the impressive seven-year, 100,000 mile warranty if anything should ever go wrong.

Moving onto fuel economy, even on the

motorway this Rio could return over 50mpg.

The boot? Well, it's as big as you might reasonably expect, given the size of the car, and - if you do need more load space - Kia say that folding the rear seats increases capacity from 325 litres to 1103 litres.

Looks are a matter of opinion but the first thing that struck me about the Rio I drove was how good it looked. Partly this was down to the car's styling, but it can't be denied that its optional Azure Blue paintwork played a part.

The fun factor is what really surprised me. At 99bhp, its turbocharged one-litre engine isn't particularly powerful, but its free-revving nature, its broad spread of power, and a very effective dual-clutch automatic gearbox, combined with the car's pleasant nature, delivered more fun than I'd anticipated.

Many cars suffer from a harsh ride on poorly surfaced roads, but the Rio's fluid suspension did a good job of coping with challenging surfaces. It also drove with the confident feel that's more often found in larger cars; this

helped make driving restful, even on long journeys.

A trip from Tenbury Wells to Bedfordshire and back in the day underlined the Rio's all-round ability. Using the motorway on the way there, but returning across the Cotswolds, ensured a variety of roads. These ranged from motorway to a near-endless succession of roundabouts through Milton Keynes. The Rio coped splendidly with everything, providing good comfort and being quieter than many more expensive models. And on arrival in Bedfordshire the computer was showing 55mpg, underlining the car's economy.

With this engine, the Rio starts at £17,660 for a 'Level 2' model. Features include alloy wheels, projection headlights, electric-folding heated door mirrors, a reversing camera and cruise control. Moving up the range, the 'Level 3' (£19,080) and the range-topping 'GT-Line S' (£20,980) are only offered with the one-litre engine in mild hybrid form; its 118bhp provides more performance than the non-hybrid Level 2.

The Level 3 sees wheel size increase to 16 inches, compared to 15 on the Level 2. Other upgrades include privacy glass, heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The GT-Line S has a sportier look, with restyled bumpers and 17 inch wheels; other changes include push button start. Automatic transmission, where available, adds £1,000.

If you're on a more modest budget, the most affordable Rio has a naturally-aspirated 83bhp 1.2-litre engine. Prices for this start at £14,460 with 'Level 1' trim, or £16,660 for 'Level 2'.

Will’s Auto Repairs Ltd Tyres Servicing Repairs 01584 811 849

TEME VALLEY TIMES

TEME VALLEY TIMES

Isuzu DL20: on road or off!

The 'All-Purpose' D-Max DL20!

The five D-Max models are split into three ranges: Business, AllPurpose and Adventure. 'Business' consists solely of the entry-level 'Utility' model. This is available in single cab, extended cab and double cab configurations, and unlike higher specification models, it uses steel wheels.

At the other end of the spectrum, the 'Adventure' designation applies to two double cab models, the VCross and AT35. Features include dual zone climate control, keyless

entry, push button start, a reversing camera and leather upholstery. The AT35 has extensive modifications that enhance its off-road ability, including Bilstein suspension, '35 inch' tyres and a higher ride height.

The 'All Purpose' models, the DL20 and DL40, occupy the middle ground of the range. Upgrades from the Utility version include a rear differential lock, hence the 'DL' part of the designation. The DL40 has a higher specification than the DL20, including leather seats, but even

the DL20 has alloy wheels and heated front seats, so can hardly be called basic. The DL40 has a double cab, the DL20 a choice of double or extended; I drove a double cab DL20.

This was the first time I'd driven a recent D-Max with manual transmission - previously I'd only driven automatics. The clutch had a long travel but needed little effort; the gearchange also had a long travel, and it also worked smoothly.

The gear ratios offered a wide spread, from the low first gear useful for slow work - to the high top gear, which meant that at an indicated 60mph the rev counter was indicating just 1750rpm. This contributed towards the generally relaxed feel, and when cruising at this speed the engine felt pleasantly refined.

The steering was surprisingly good, with a direct response and an almost car-like feel, which is quite an achievement, considering the size and weight of a D-Max. It was also an easy vehicle to place, its manoeuvrability was impressive, and its poise was good, with little roll.

As you'd expect, the suspension

coped well with even quite substantial potholes, something that has become increasingly important as road surfaces have deteriorated. Other plus points included a generous amount of storage space, with stowage boxes as well as door pockets. And the switchgear was all easy to use, whereas some vehicles are now over-reliant on touch-screen operation.

You'd expect a D-Max to be very practical, which it was, but it was also very easy to live with, and it proved to be a better long-distance cruiser than some might expect.

Equally, if you've got a heavy load to haul, the 3.5 tonne towing ability will be welcome.

The example I drove had covered about 15,000 miles but it was still in pristine condition - surely an endorsement of the vehicle's quality. The five year, 125,000 mile warranty is also commendable, particularly for a commercial vehicle.

Prices vary greatly, depending which model and which options you go for. On the road, excluding VAT, the Utility starts at £21,999, the DL20 at £26,999, the DL40 at

£30,849, the V-Cross at £32,329 and the AT35 at £47,999.

Where running costs are concerned, 200 miles of gentle driving saw 40.5mpg on the display and it recorded an average of 38mpg over 420 miles of mixed driving.

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WOODSTON, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE: £525,000

A superb oast house conversion in an exclusive development with fine views across the Teme Valley.

Kitchen/Family Room, Spacious Sitting Room, Utility Room, Cloakroom, Master Bedroom with Ensuite, Two Further Double Bedrooms, Shower Room, Large Single Garage, Allocated Parking Spaces, Attractive Level Gardens, EPC Rating D.

BERRINGTON ROAD, TENBURY WELLS - OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £500,000

A detached bungalow for improvement set on a large plot in an elevated and highly sought after residential area.

Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Sitting Room, Master Bedroom with Ensuite, Two Further Double Bedrooms, Bathroom, Utility Room, Integral Garage, Parking, Level Gardens, EPC Rating D.

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29 VIEWINGS IN 2 WEEKS AND MULTIPLE OFFERS - RURAL PROPERTIES URGENTLY REQUIRED!

GREETE, LUDLOW - GUIDE PRICE: £475,000

BURFORD, TENBURY WELLS - GUIDE PRICE £360,000

An attractive and extended country cottage for upgrading in a lovely rural setting with 0.576 acre of grounds and views across rolling farmland.

Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Sitting Room, Three Double Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Utility/Boot Room, Cellar, Garage, Outbuildings, Ample Driveway Parking, Extensive Gardens, Small Paddock, EPC Rating F.

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 £155,000 A semi-detached bungalow 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, Two Bedrooms, Shower Room, Easy Care Garden, EPC Rating D.

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

A link-detached bungalow in a desirable residential area within level walking distance of the town centre.

Kitchen, Living Room, Conservatory, Two Double Bedrooms, Bathroom, Attractive Level Gardens, Garage, Parking, EPC Rating D.

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.

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