Tewkesbury Direct Magazine April 2023

GET OUT AND ABOUT THIS EASTER

Easter is traditionally the time when local attractions re-open for business, and in Tewkesbury we are blessed with a wide to choice to visit this Spring, together with our friends and families.

Tewkesbury Abbey will, of course, be the focal point for Christian worship from Good Friday (7th) until Easter Monday (10th April), and full details of all services can be found on their website tewkesburyabbey.org.uk

If local history is your thing, there are guided walks of Tewkesbury Battlefield coming up, plus a chance to explore our town’s social heritage with a stroll around the town’s famous lanes and alleys, accompanied by an expert.

Check out the website visittewkesbury.info for more information.

Family fun is the keynote for Easter activities, with no shortage of adventure on our doorstep during the school holidays.

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway is organising special children’s events from 4th16th April, including an

easter egg hunt and creative workshops - plus, of course, steam and heritage diesel train rides along the awardwinning line from Broadway to Cheltenham Race Course.For timetables and tickets see www.gwsr.com

For 2023, Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury, has added a ‘Coronation Chicken’ theme to its legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle grounds. The event runs over the Easter weekend. See eastnorcastle.com for more information.

PAGES

April is a great time to get out and enjoy our wonderful countryside too - so why not take a look at Jack Walker’s ramble around historic Winchcombe on Page 27? Jack’s route skirts the grounds of Sudeley Castle, which can be visited en-route for an admission fee. 1st-16th April Sudeley has a ‘Nest Fest’ Egg Hunt, and there are nature-based crafts to enjoy on selected dates this month.

For full details see sudeleycastle.co.uk

Continued on Page 3

The beautiful grounds of Sudeley Castle

www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

Cloud Cuckoo Land

by Anthony Doerr Paperback £9.99

Fans of Anthony Doerr have had to wait a long time for this his first book since the 2014 Pulitzer winner "All the Light we cannot See" which has rightly become a perennial bestseller, and a word of mouth recommendation.

These followers will not be disappointed by this new book which reads beautifully; Doerr is a masterful storyteller and his theme here is far removed from his earlier work, ambitiously covering three time periods.

The siege of Constantinople in 1453 is the first setting. Anna and her ailing sister, Maria, work as seamstresses in what we would now call a "sweatshop" manufacturing elaborate embroidery. Meanwhile in Thrace, in a rural setting, Omeir, a boy disfigured by a harelip, is forced to join the Sultan's invading army when his pair of prime oxen are requisitioned becoming just part of the vast war machine surrounding the city. Inside the walls Maria has made numerous nocturnal voyages with fisherman Himerius out to a ruin in the harbour where she gains access to an old library which they plunder to bring back manuscripts to the Italian clerics; this proves profitable until the Order deserts the city ahead of the advancing army, leaving her on the battlements looking out to an uncertain future. Their two diverse lives do converge as this section of the book unfolds.

Present day Idaho brings the story into the modern era with Seymour an environmental activist and Zeno an octogenarian with a life's history that is revealed to us the reader. While Seymour a troubled young man has suffered a hard lonely childhood but with a doting mother who works ceaselessly to support him.

Seymour's devotion to nature is gloriously retold, his surroundings and the intrusion of the modern world, new housing estates destroying the green and pleasant land, including an owl, Seymour has known

grown to love. Zeno, an exPOW in the Korean War now retired has a dedicated group of young people with whom he is planning to put on a play in the local library which is the primary setting for this part of the story when, we the reader, are not learning about the past lives of Zeno and Seymour and his mother.

The third and futuristic location is a capsule or spaceship which seems to be a labyrinth of interconnecting chambers in which Konstance and her parents are "voyaging" to a new planet. This time vessel also contains a library, a very imaginative fantasy of an institution that teaches Konstance and other children aboard.

Life is ruled by Sybil, an AI that controls the inhabitants lives and their very beings in this dystopian world. This section includes a pandemic and creative assumptions as to what the future might hold; a significant contrast to the historical fact of 15th century Constantinople and the reality of modern day Idaho.

There is also a fourth theme within the book an ancient tale by Diogenes that links each of the three sections together and as such brings the book in it's three separate time fields together into a unity that subtly works.

This is a very inventive novel in it's ambition and flawless construction; it will increase the fanbase of Doerr. Storytelling at it's very best.

Selected by: Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop Tewkesbury GL20 5JR

OUT AND ABOUT THIS SPRING continued from Front Page

Priors Park Community Church, in Queens Road, has organised Easter Fun on Sunday 9th April. Their ‘Great Easter Treasure Hunt’ begins at 3.30pm, with a mission to discover Easter Story

Characters or events hiding around Priors Park. There will be Easter Crafts and refreshments too.

The magic of Springtime with the arrival of newborn lambs is being

Local Historical Society launches new Bulletin

Tewkesbury Historical Society is proud to announce publication of Bulletin 32 (2023).

The Society’s Life President, John Dixon, said: “Researched and written by members, we share obituaries for Christine Donald and Norah, Cliff and Margaret Day.

“Its cover is graced by a Nick Jones photograph. Woodard Award Winner, Joanne Raywood, emphasises the importance of the Ham to the Town’s past –and future.

“Sam Eedle has featured the life Charles Davis, DCM, in WWI and importantly coping with injury after he war. He has also researched a Forger from the early 19th Century.

“A local researcher, Sarah Smith, has highlighted the new edition of John Rogers, author of the invaluable Short History of the Alleys. John Dixon has revealed the life of a much respected first settlement of a Barbadian member of a former enslaved family, Harold Kirton.”

The Bulletin is now available from Alison’s Bookshop in Tewkesbury High Street. For more information visit the website tewkesburyhistory.org

celebrated up at Cotswold Farm Park. Easter activities are being included with Farm Park entry from 1st-16th April. For details visit cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

National Trust proper-

ties will be welcoming visitors again this month too.

There’s an Easter Egg Hunt at Croome Park (1st-16th April) and the Panorama Tower, with wide ranging views over

the landscape, will be open to visitors on 9th April too. Other nearby National Trust attractions include Chedworth Roman Villa, Snowshill Manor and Chastleton House. Details of open-

ing times and what’s going on can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

It’s also a lovely time of year to visit the Forest of Dean, take a walk in the Cotswolds, or simply enjoy Tewkesbury!

GREEN DUNLOP WELLINGTONS (Sizes 7-12) £11.55 (inc. VAT) LINED RIGGER BOOTS (Sizes 7-12) £29.99 (inc. VAT)

DEALER BOOTS (Sizes 7-12) £36.66 (inc. VAT)

Oxford Mint, an effective range of boat cleaning and maintenance products, now available at Autospares

Oxford ‘MINT’ is a range of British manufactured specialist cleaning and maintenance products, which are formulated to be easy to use, fast and effective and produce outstanding results.

Oxford works with industry experts and boat builders to develop products which are bestin-class to meet their needs and that of their customers.

Extensive real-world testing, as well as analysis at Oxford’s own laboratory, ensure satisfaction and high performance from each product.

The range includes: Polishes, UV sealers, hull, bilge and canopy cleaners, corrosion inhibitors and much more.

Owner of Autospares in Barton Street has been impressed with the research and the results of Oxford products over time, after stocking their motorcycle and bicycle ranges.

He said “if you are a boat owner, and need to have a spring clean, this specifically prepared range will give good results.”

m Protect your boat with the new range of Oxford Mint specialist products

Clearway joins aluminium recycling scheme

One of Gloucestershire’s leading door and window companies has joined an innovative re-cycling scheme for the aluminium used in its manufacturing processes.

Cheltenham-based Clearway Doors and Windows fabricates and installs a range of aluminium doors, sash and casement windows, secondary glazing, patio, French and bi-fold doors - as well as roof lights and lanterns.

The company, which celebrates its fortieth anniversary this year, has become a member of the CAB Closed Loop Recycling Scheme.

Clearway’s Managing Director Jeremy Phillips explains: ”Basically we recycle all our off-cuts

from fabrication as well as old aluminium windows that we remove from properties.

“We use a company that specifically keeps the recycled aluminium

within the window industry hence the term “closed loop.”

CAB, the Council for Aluminium in Building, state that it requires up to 95% less energy to recycle aluminium than to produce primary metal and thereby avoids corresponding emissions, including greenhouse gases.

Established in 1983, Clearway Doors and Windows initially focussed on manufacturing and installing their products in the commercial sector, but in recent years demand has increased dramatically in the domestic sector, particularly for Clearway’s stylish, secure and innovative aluminium products.

The factory has expanded considerably, and during the company’s fortieth year a range of new products is being introduced - including stunning Art-Deco style internal screening.

For further information see advert below, call 01242 513322 or visit the website www.clearwaydoorsandwindows.co.uk

Aluminium and PVCu window and door solutions

Perfectly tailored to fit the outside or inside of your home

Since 1983, Clearway have been helping customers make the most of their homes. To celebrate our fortieth year, we’re launching an exciting new range of products. Unique designs with traditional elegance, classic or contemporary style - all with unrivalled safety, security and insulation properties. Our craftsmen manufacture to your order in our Cheltenham factory, for supply only or supply and fitting by our expert teams. Check out our fabulous ranges of:

• Aluminium and PVCu windows and doors in a wide range of styles and colours

• Flat roof lights and lanterns

• Composite doors

• Sliding doors

• Secondary glazing

• Art-Deco style internal screening

• Bi-fold doors

• Sash and casement windows

• Display cabinets

“Just wanted to email to thank you for the fab service we received from all sections of your company throughout the process of purchasing our new windows and doors. We saw the whole spectrum of customer service whilst our building work took place….yours is one of the companies that stood out in terms of great customer service. We will be heartily recommending you to others.”

- JJ, Cheltenham (November 2022)

Showroom Opening Times: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.00pm, Sat 9.00am-1.00pm

Clearway Doors & Windows, Manor Park Business Centre, MacKenzie Way, Cheltenham

GL51 9TX

Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles up to 3000kg DGW

Jeremy Phillips

Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend

The plans have been finalised for what we hope will be the best ever festival which is being held on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st May.

The theme for the street and boat parade is “Nursery rhymes” and we would love you to join in. Further details are available on our website www.tewkesburybigweekend.co.uk our Facebook pages and of course the next edition of Tewkesbury Direct.

You can look forward to a weekend for everyone which includes a dog show at the Vineyards [all dogs qualify to take part], ‘Picnic in the Park at Victoria Gardens’, riverside music stage, boat trips, stalls and children’s attractions. You can even sponsor a duck to race on the river. If you fancy a taster

session on a stand up paddleboard [SUP] Croft farm are again supporting us and you can either just turn up riverside of pre-book direct with them.

Sunday lunchtime will see our boat parade pass through the town at the back of Avon. Last year we had over thirty boats join in setting a new record with an incredible variety of waterborne craft including a car!!

We still have space for teams of five for our boat races on Sunday afternoon where you can help raise money for our nominated charities as well as your own. This is great fun to take part in or just sit and watch

the action from our Riverside bar.

The Town Hall and gardens will also be open and have lots of stalls and activities to choose from.

Following on from last years trial we have expanded the use of our riverside stage which promises a good variety of music and acts throughout the weekend.

Make a note of the date to make sure you don’t miss out and we look forward to seeing you, we will do our best to offer a free or great value time for everyone.

For further information contact carocrilly@ btinternet.com.

TADS triumph in play festival

TADS (Tewkesbury Arts and Drama Society) scored a dramatic success in the Worcestershire Theatre Festival, held in the Norbury Theatre in Droitwich on March 5th, winning six trophies, including Overall Festival Winner.

Their play, Victim, was written by TADS member Brenda ReadBrown, who also directed. “I tend to write comedies,” Brenda said, “but this play is much more serious. I wanted it to be thought-provoking. My talented cast and crew have done an amazing job in bringing it to life.”

Other trophies won by Victim were:

• Best Actor: Rob

40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

In May, Tewkesbury and District Twinning association are celebrating 40 years of twinning with Miesbach in South Germany, and will be welcoming 27 visitors.

Morris

• Best Actress: Katie Preedy

• Best Original Play: Brenda Read-Brown

• Best Director: Brenda Read-Brown

• Best Play

TADS will now take Victim through to the quarter-final of the All England Theatre Festival, which will take place on 22nd April, again in the Norbury Theatre.

Miesbach is a pretty town and district in Bavaria, about 50km south of Munich, on the way to the Alps and the Austrian border. It’s a good match for Tewkesbury, with a town of about 11,000 and a District of about 100,000.

Lots of local groups have been enthusiastic twinners over the years, Farmers, the Fire Service, Rugby Club Ladies, Scouts, and our Town Band. This year’s German visitors include a group of keen gardeners, looking forward to the RHS Malvern Spring festival.

If you are interested and/or Studying German, there’s a chance to join us at an informal reception on Saturday 13th May at 7.30pm at Bredon Village Hall. For just a tenner(£10) there’ll be a welcome drink, hot buffet, entertainment from the Town Band and Morris dancers, plus, of course, the opportunity to meet our visitors. Don’t worry about language: they are very good at English. And don’t worry about parking either, the hall has plenty.

If you’d like to join us, please email our Secretary, Mary Lodwig marylodwig@hotmail. co.uk. She’d like to hear from you by Thursday 11th May, to get the catering numbers right.

See you there!

By John Halstead.

WE WANT YOUR CAR

If you’re thinking of selling your car please call Cleeve Motor Company on 07514 562768 or fill in the ‘sell your car’ form at www.cleevemotorcompany.co.uk

Why choose us?

• We can collect from you

• We will transfer cash to your bank account immediately

• You will receive 100% of agreed price

• You will avoid the time consuming and often painful experience of selling privately

• You won’t have to deal with the major car buying companies, who typically offer much less than original offer

• You can also part exchange for a car in our current stock (all current stock viewable on website)

Unit 7 Gannaway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8FD 07514 562768 www.cleevemotorcompany.co.uk sales@cleevemotorcompany.co.uk

GARDENING MONTHLY with Tim Hoskins

PREHISTORIC TREE CARE

So spring has definitely taken its first steps and soon we’ll be locked into the routine of mowing, weeding and watering as we try to stop nature reclaiming our gardens(!), writes Tim

I’m sure we’re all licking our wounds after the winter and watching as the sap rises and confirms our worst fears about which plants we’ve lost and which ones have just been battered by the cold.

There is still time to do some winter tasks and if you haven’t done it, you may still be able to do some winter tree pruning. The trees in my neighbourhood were recently given a severe crown lift by a contractor working for the council.

Hoskins.

shape it before someone decided it shouldn’t be there.

My horticultural career began on golf courses, so I’m afraid I have an aversion to lollipop crowns on trees. 6ft was the standard and I was the measure, standing just over that height.

This style of pruning originates in Parkland settings where penned in herbivores grazed the stands of trees to a regular pattern.

Unfortunately, in my view, this has resulted in a British obsession with lollipop trees. Let us not forget that nature will prune trees in myriad ways - did you know that a lot of our native species have evolved alongside large herbivores like aurochs and elephants?

This is shown in their response to natural pruning like pollarding and coppicing, thus proving we can be a bit more imaginative in our design.

This was a shame because I was actually planning on doing some of them myself; there’s a nice multi-stem walnut (Juglans regia) that had grown up unnoticed over the road and I’d hoped to do some guerrilla gardening and

So, before we get into heading, thinning, crown lifting etc. let’s take a step back and think about how the tree fits the wider situation and whether our initial intentions were necessary.

Maybe we could even put the tools back in the shed and sit and watch the sap rise instead?

Tim Hoskins

Studex Ear Piercing

Tanzania a Destination Country to Explore

Massawe Adventures offers a mix of life experiences from Wildlife Safaris, Kilimanjaro Treks,

by Idda Oakes,

Adventure Planner at Massawe Adventures

Tanzania is probably the greatest all-round wildlife destination in Africa — arguably the world. Set with such an appealing variety of attractions, the choice of where to go can be overwhelming.

Massawe Adventures is ready to help you plan your next adventure.

We can arrange everything that you need, for a tailormade holiday of a lifetime. Your next big adventure starts here.

Massawe Adventures is a family owned tourism company with two branches, one based in Tewkesbury -Gloucestershire and another in Moshi – Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), with vast experience, knowledge and professionalism. My two brothers run the Tanzanian side of the business, which between them, they have over 20 years’ experience in operating professional safari tour and adventures. As a safari company we have many requests for ‘Once in a lifetime’

experiences which range from luxury holidays to “bucket list” requests such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or seeing the ‘Big 5’ on safari. These include safaris to the awe inspiring and legendary Ngorongoro Crater, the magical Serengeti where the migration of the wildebeest takes place, Tarangire National Park to see herds of elephants and cultural visits to local Maasai villages to learn about their unique way of life. We go one step further and offer different, more ecologically viable experiences which focus more on sustain-

ability and celebrate the bio diversity that is indigenous to Tanzania.

niversary, one can consider some of the following options; a balloon

Why choose

With Massawe Adventures in mind we have wonderful packages completely flexible of which can be tailored to any of the elements to make it unique to a client’s requirement, we consider dietary requirements, style and grade of accommodation – from outside canvas tent camping through to 5* luxury lodges in the middle of the wilderness or beach stays of which can be added for that ultimate touch of exotic island life, swimming in the warm Indian ocean which lies along Tanzania and Zanzibar’s coast.

Not forgetting setting of memorable moments, if you are celebrating a birthday or a special an-

ride to see the sunrise over Kilimanjaro for a truly magical experience, Traditional Tanzanian supper, enjoy moonlight picnic making the most of the uninterrupted dark skies.

Welcome “Karibu” Enquires please contact Idda Oakes, Tel 07583838523 or email idda@massaweadventures.com.

EVENTS ONLINE IN

Double Awards for local Real Ale and Cider Pub, The Cross House Tavern

Laurence Mills landlord of the Cross House Tavern has achieved a double, the Tewkesbury Branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ales) has just awarded the hostelry, not only the CAMRA pub of the year award,but also the CAMRA, Cyder pub of the year too

The Cross House Tavern is very popular, it is in a Tudor setting, cosy and regularly sells nine real ales and real ciders and perries.

Asked how he gained the award, Laurence commented in six words “Real Ale, Real Cider, Real Pub!”

Ukraine Aid Update: How much war exposure can people take?

by Tim Wright

Answer: If you love your country and you believe in sovereignty and freedom, the answer is masses. When you read this, the war will be over 400 days old. For the front-line Ukrainian soldier (men and women) there is little respite and no down-time. Constant bombardment affects your psyche and physique - ask our people who encountered combat in Afghanistan or Iraq, writes Tim Wright.

I am pleased to report that the humanitarian aid Tewkesbury and so many other areas are sending is now better coordinated and large transporters are frequently here loading up with large and small generators and propane heaters. Some of the large generators are over 3.5 metres long and destined for hospitals and schools. The vehicle loads are then supplemented with clothing, medical supplies and children’s toys and training aids.

Aston on Carrant. Alone collected a huge

amount of supplies for onward transportation. Massive effort by the whole village. Thank you so much.

New Appeal

As Winter subsides the needs start to change. In the trenches defenders have little in the way of good sanitation and water.

We are seeking more medical supplies: Home use bandages, antiseptics, nappies, creams like Canestan etc: Even mini toothpastes and wipes. Boxes of comfort and convenience products are packed and sent to front line troops (men and women) and we need more please.

Finally, Most children’s schooling takes place underground now with limited resources. The Children of Ukraine need activity including educational toys, games and even old iPhones and iPads are requested. SEN children especially need appropriate toys and games.

If you can help in any way please contact Tim Wright at frogwellvct@ gmail.com or tewkesburytri@gmail.com.

150 High Street, Tewkesbury

Please can you help, we need:

Books, Audio Books, Large Print, Sheet Music, Puzzles, Pictures, Maps, Stamps, Coins.

Collection can be arranged. Volunteers also needed to help raise money for the local community & Cancer Research UK

Antiquarian and Rare Books

01684 438385

Open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday

REUSE IS THE BEST WAY TO RECYCLE

m The Cross House Tavern landlord, Laurence Mills, with CAMRA Cider Pub of the Year 2023 and Pub of the Year 2023 awards.

Black Belt Success For Students

Nihal Singh (14) and Henry Mealing (16) were promoted to BoDan’s (probationary Black Belts due to their age) and will have to show a further six months of continued dedication and commitment before being promoted to fully fledged 1st degree (1st dan) black belts.

Jack Keegan was promoted to 1st degree (1st Dan) whilst Matthew Bourton was promoted to 2nd degree (2nd Dan).

They all had to perform various disciplines that included advanced leg and hand techniques, set sparring combinations, free sparring, realistic Self-Defence (including being seated and

groundwork), patterns (attack and defence combinations in various directions), Knife Defences, breaking wooden boards and tiles plus a theory test to ensure a good knowledge of Taekwon-Do.

Everything rested on their performances on the day, but dedication, correct preparation ensured their success.

Their instructor Paul Wanklyn 6th Dan said: “It was a special moment for me and my wife Jill (also an Instructor) to see them obtain their Black Belt or higher Dan grade. They have worked very hard to achieve their grades and we’re extremely proud of them.

Not everyone was successful on the day which proves that it’s not easy to attain black belt and even harder to achieve a higher dan grade. I’ve watched these students grow into competent Martial Artists over the past four or five years and they’ve overcome a number of personal and physical obstacles to get there. Their dedication and commitment is outstanding, they are a credit to themselves and the club”.

To enrol for free trial sessions at White Tiger Martial Arts, call 07722 584919 or 07488 333973, e-mail info@ white-tiger-tkd.com or go to www.white-tigertkd.com for more details.

Four students from the White Tiger Martial Arts Academy based at the Wheatpieces Community Centre in Tewkesbury have been promoted to 1st degree (1st Dan) and 2nd Degree (2nd Dan) Black Belts after a gruelling four hour National Ch’ang-Hon Taekwon-Do Association Black Belt grading on Saturday 25th February 2023.

m Paul Wanklyn 6th Dan (Chief Instructor), Nihal Singh, Henry Mealing, Jack Keegan, Matthew Bourton, Jill Wanklyn 4th Dan (Instructor)

NEWTOWN WI

Due to the weather we did not quite have the meeting we were expecting. Although our speaker could not make it there was a really good turnout from our members, plus visitors, and we all enjoyed a very impromptu quiz afternoon.

It was great fun and we learnt some interesting facts about Easter which many of us did not know and had lots of time to enjoy chatting over tea and biscuits. A fun way to spend a cold snowy afternoon.

As well as our monthly meetings we also have a very successful craft group. They attempt many crafts each month, at their last meeting they made these lovely paper flowers, which look almost real. We are a very friendly group and would love to welcome you to our meetings which take place on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Wheatpieces Community Centre starting at 2 pm.

The next meeting is on 12th April, our speaker will be Louise Parker – ‘a journey from lockdown to Textile Artist. If you are interested in joining us, just come along, we would love to see you, or you can contact Julie Pullen on 01684 301267 or by email at pullenj53@sky.com.

Situated within a beautiful, private 1.5 acre gardens, this detached bungalow is spacious and light. 4 bedrooms; 2 shower rooms & main bathroom; dual aspect lounge; separate dining room; insulated garden home office; detached double garage; EPC D; Tax Band G.

A large individually built detached home, sitting centrally within is delightful gardens; far reaching views to Bredon Hill; 3 large double bedrooms; 2 large reception rooms; 2 shower rooms; main bathroom; gas central heating; mains drainage; attached double garage; EPC tba; Tax Band F.

Individual attached village property with stunning, far reaching views and a large 30’x19’ workshop. 3 double bedrooms; 2 separate reception rooms; kitchen/breakfast room; utility room; ground floor shower room; first floor bathroom; lovely gardens; ample driveway parking. EPC tba;Tax Band F.

Detached modern home in this popular location within Manor Park; 4 good sized bedrooms; ensuite; lounge; separate dining room; modern kitchen/breakfast room; guest wc; attached carport and single garage; lovely outlook; attractive gardens and ample driveway parking; EPC D: Tax Band E.

Large 3 storey detached home on the latest development phase. 3 double bedrooms; dressing room; ensuite; contemporary styled kitchen/dining room; light & spacious lounge; guest wc; garage; parking; low maintenance rear garden; EPC B; Tax Band E.

Spacious 4 bedroom detached home. Main bedroom with ensuite; kitchen/breakfast room; utility; guest wc; lounge; conservatory; detached garage – wide plot with ample driveway parking; attractive low maintenance garden; EPC D; Tax Band E.

A spacious extended detached bungalow with attractive garden; 3 bedrooms; shower room; bathroom; living room; sitting room; conservatory; kitchen/breakfast room; garage; Flo Gas central heating; upvc double glazed windows and doors. EPC D Tax Band D.

A modern, detached bungalow with private gardens and ample driveway parking. Modern kitchen/dining room with patio doors to garden; dual aspect lounge with patio doors; 2 bedrooms; gas central heating; upvc double glazing. Tax Band C EPC C.

Immaculately presented link detached bungalow with low maintenance private rear garden, and large wide lawned side garden plot. Single garage to the side; 2 bedrooms; kitchen/ dining room; lounge with large picture window; EPC D; Tax Band D.

Extended detached home with the advantage of a garage to the side; open plan kitchen/ dining/conservatory with log burner; separate lounge; guest wc; 3 bedrooms; gas central heating; double glazing; attractive gardens; EPC D; Tax Band D.

Walking distance of the town centre, a beautifully presented spacious mid terrace home with the advantage of gated side access to the rear. 3 double bedrooms; large bathroom; attractive lounge with log burner; kitchen/dining room; large garden; parking for several vehicles;Tax Band C; EPC D.

Full of charm; a delightful 3 storey town cottage with kitchen/breakfast room; lounge; 3 bedrooms; gas central heating; garden workshop with power and light; summer house; driveway parking; attractive private gardens front and back; Tax Band B EPC D.

Immaculately presented throughout, this is a lovely semi detached home. 3 bedrooms, family bathroom, guest wc; lounge; kitchen/ dining room; conservatory; garage and parking; gas central heating; upvc double glazing; EPC C; Tax Band C.

Traditionally built semi detached bungalow positioned on a large garden plot offering excellent opportunity to extend subject to consents; kitchen/breakfast room; 3 bedrooms; lounge; gas central heating; upvc double glazing; ample driveway parking; large garden. Tax Band B; EPC tba.

Beautifully presented semi detached chalet bungalow; 2 bedrooms; ground floor bathroom; kitchen/breakfast room; lounge/dining room; rear porch; detached single garage; lovely rear garden backing onto school; long drive with ample parking; EPC D; Tax Band C.

Light and airy and beautifully presented first floor apartment. Share of Freehold; 3 bedrooms; modern kitchen/breakfast room; lounge; modern bathroom; stunning grounds; garage and parking; views to the Malverns; EPC C; Tax Band B.

A beautifully light and spacious first floor apartment within this development for the active retired over 55s; 2 bedrooms; modern kitchen; lounge/dining room; shower room; good storage; excellent communal facilities; Tax Band B.

Modern, well presented ground floor apartment for the active retired over 55s. One bedroom; modern kitchen; lounge/dining room; shower room; excellent communal facilities; beautiful communal grounds; unallocated parking; Tax Band A.

“Excellent local estate agent, great area knowledge, friendly prompt service.”

RIPPLE AND UCKINGHALL OPEN GARDENS

29th MAY 2023

The villages of Ripple and Uckinghall are delighted to announce that they will be hosting an Open Gardens Day on 29th May 2023.

Alongside some wonderful gardens, both large and small, there will also be a BBQ, plant sales, bric a brac, tombola, artisan beer and

cream teas, so a good day out for everybody and a chance to look around these two historic villages with their thatched and timber framed cottages, also the beautiful grade 1 listed St. Marys Church. The local village pub, The

Railway Inn, will also be open. The charities that will be supported this year are The Acorn Childrens Hospice and St Marys Church renovation fund, so please come along and help to raise funds for these two very

worthwhile causes. Tickets for the day are just £5 pp and children under 15 go free, so a very reasonable day out.

Beckford Road £550,000

In need of modernisation, but with huge potential and a large plot, is this THREE BEDROOM detached bungalow, with plenty of off road parking, in the desirable village of

This beautiful EXTENDED THREE BEDROOM home, is in gorgeous condition and ready to move straight into, with garage, garden and plenty of off road

If you would like a project, then look no further, this THREE

property has the potential to become a great family home, located only a short stroll from the main High Street of Tewkesbury.

Tewkesbury: The Ancient Grudge, 15 High Street, Tewkesbury, Gl20 5AL. Tel. 01684 275276

Walton Cardiff: 4 Columbine Road, Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury, GL20 7SP. Tel. 01684 295417 www.tagestateagents.co.uk | info@tagestateagents.co.uk

This beautiful home in a really popular village offers THREE BEDROOMS, an en suite to the principal room, open plan living, separate cosy snug and large gardens with off road parking.

Drumony, Naunton £420,000

Naunton.

Warren Road £285,000

parking.

Laurel Avenue £225,000

A very well presented TWO BEDROOM home, situated in the popular development of Walton Cardiff.

Furrow Close £225,000

A TWO BEDROOM Semi Detached home in Holly Green, close to Upton Upon Severn, situated at the end of a cul de sac.

Gravel Walk £220,000

A pretty THREE BEDROOM cottage, located along one of Tewkesbury’s best loved walks, with a private garden.

Gainsborough Drive £275,000

A fantastic opportunity to purchase this TWO BEDROOM bungalow in Tuffley, with large rear garden and plenty of off road parking.

Langley Grove £273,000

A beautiful TWO BEDROOM home, with the addition of an en suite to the principal bedroom and a rear garden, in this wonderful riverside village.

Howard Road £270,000

An exciting opportunity to purchase an end terrace THREE BEDROOM property, on a large corner plot with a garage.

North East Terrace £185,000

BEDROOM

Sparrow Close £180,000

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a ONE BEDROOM detached coach house situated on the Walton Cardiff development.

East Street £210,000

An exciting opportunity to own a characterful THREE BEDROOM cottage, with pretty south facing garden, located in the historic market town of Tewkesbury.

New edition of John Moore novel

Copies of a new edition of ‘The Waters Under the Earth’ by the Tewkesbury-born author John Moore have been presented to the John Moore Museum and the Gloucestershire Archives.

The presentations were made by the chairman of the John Moore Society, Graham Downie, at the John Moore Museum in Church Street to Kirstie Bingham, the museum’s Heritage Manager, and Helen Bartlett, the Senior Archivist at the county archives.

The book was first published in 1965 and was one of the last books to be written by John Moore before his death in 1967.

Perhaps best-known locally for his 1945 book

WHAT’S ON at Three

m

m

m

m

m 14TH-16TH APRIL Flyball Championships

m 22ND APRIL National Pony Society Spring Festival

m 27TH-30TH APRIL Welks Championship Dog Show

‘A Portrait of Elmbury’ –a thinly-disguised and colourful account of the life and times of pre-war Tewkesbury - Moore is now regarded as one of the earliest conservationists in this country

as well being one of the best writers on the English countryside.

The John Moore Society was founded in 1988 and is dedicated to upholding the work and memory of the author.

The appearance of this new edition of one of his last works, published by Persephone Books of Bath, is a reflection of the enduring importance of John Moore’s writing.

Booksellers help the local community

Local organisations are continuing to benefit from book sales at Bookworm Bookshop, writes Shelby Powell. The profits from donated books sold from the shop in the high street and online through Abe Books are regularly distributed.

In the latest round of profit sharing Tewkesbury in Bloom and Mindsong have received £1k each.

Tewkesbury Direct readers will be familiar with the work of the volunteers of Tewkesbury in Bloom, a group which has been established for over 35 years.

In contrast Mindsong's new singing group has only been up and running since the start of the year. Sing 2 Remember is organised by Julia Glaudot and is run free of charge for participants on a fortnightly basis. These fun music sessions take place at Tewkesbury Baptist Church in Station Road from 3- 4pm. The next sessions are Thursday 6th and 20th April and 4th May, and include light refreshments.

“Funding is always needed as we don't charge for the group, we ask for donations but understandably these do not cover the costs of hall hire, refreshments and other costs.

“As a rough figure each group costs around £3,000 annually to run,” comments Julia Sing 2 Remember is aimed for people with dementia still living at home and those that care for them, as well as people experiencing loneliness or isolation or those who love to sing, but no longer feel comfortable singing in a choir.

For further information please email Julia

at julia.glaudot@mindsong.org.uk or ring 07769 738549. No booking is required and you can just turn up.

If you have books, jigsaws or stamps to donate, please do think about donating to Bookworm (near The Cross in Tewkesbury High Street) so volunteers can continue to support local organisations and Tewkesbury’s good causes.

Volunteers are always required as well so if you have around three hours or more to spare each week and would like to try volunteering, please do pop into the shop which is open Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 4.00pm to introduce yourself.

There are a variety of volunteering roles on offer from customer facing to behind the scenes, and you do not have to be a book expert to help out either as guidance is always available from a more experienced volunteer.

*All prices include labour, materials, consumable and VAT

*Additional charge for fluid changes of antifreeze, gear oil, brake fluid *£5.00 surcharge on fully synthetic oil vehicles *10% extra for 6 and 8 cylinder cars *Fixed price excludes 4x4 vehicles

At Severn Point Automotive, we offer car servicing and repairs for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles. An electric car service, also known as EV servicing, is a thorough inspection of your vehicle to ensure it’s performing at its best.

We can provide EV servicing and repairs for all makes and models including:

Bushley Bluebell Walk

By Tim Perry

We are pleased to be able to host our Bluebell Walk again this year starting at Bushley Cricket Club at 2.00 pm on Sunday 23rd April.

We walk through the nearby woods, by permission of Forthampton Estate, for about a mile and a half returning to

the pavilion for afternoon tea about 4.00pm.

On a sunny afternoon the bluebells are spectacular in their natural surroundings, a rare treat in these private woods.

Any dogs should be kept on leads please by request of the landowners. Sturdy

footwear is recommended as the route is on tracks through the wood, not suitable for those with limited mobility.

Cost is £5 per person, including afternoon tea. More details 07812 179002 or tim.perry22@ gmail.com postcode GL20 6JB.

Now introducing a range of HANDCRAFTED FAUXWOOD SHUTTERS manufactured in the UK with a magnificent lead time of 3 to 4 weeks. You can choose them in any (RAL) colour or match them to any Farrow & Ball paint chart. 01684

www.tewkesburyblinds.co.uk

An extensive range of blinds, curtains, tracks, poles & accessories

• FREE DESIGN ADVICE

• FREE FITTING

DOMESTIC

• FREE MEASURING

In 1828 Arthur Wellesley, better known as the Duke of Wellington became Prime Minister. It is not recorded if he ever came to Tewkesbury but had he have done so he would been able to play bowls because that was the year that Tewkesbury Bowling Club was started on a site next to the Bell Hotel in Church Street, a rather appropriate setting as there is evidence of bowls being played, probably here as it was then part of the Abbey grounds by the monks from the Abbey in the Medieval Period.

Tewkesbury is one of the oldest bowling clubs in the county and the second oldest in the county. The club stayed at the Bell location until 1975 when it moved to its present location in Gander Lane. Still overlooking the Abbey. Although the club has is roots in the past it has not stood still. A recent revamp has seen an upgrade in the changing facilities both inside and outside the clubhouse. Although Lawn Bowls is a summer game the clubhouse is in constant use during the winter both by the club’s Short Mat teams and the four Skittles teams who use the alley. The clubhouse, with its picturesque view of the Abbey and large car park, is also a popular venue for many varied social events. The club is always happy to welcome established players as well as beginners and we have Open Sessions on Friday May 12th and 13th. We provide free coaching,

from our three qualified coaches, and a reduced fee for the first year. See our website tewkesburybowlingclub.co.uk for more details.

With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and an experienced sales and installation team, we can supply and create exactly what you are looking for.

Whether your fire is for warmth or a feature, traditional looking, modern or bespoke The Fireplace Gallery has a fire to suit your home.

hundred and ninety five years of history but not stuck in the past

After 83 years does Then and Now blend together? This property has been so well tended that it does blend successfully, writes John Dixon.

In truth, then was just part of a large field and orchards, owned first in 1889 by the widow of the Vicar of Tewkesbury, Mrs. Robeson who sold it in 1911 to estate agent George Hone who sold it again in 1920 to the Ministry of Health.

He also sold land for Abbots Road in 1920 which allowed the creation in 1926 or Prior’s Park a mixed private and public housing area.

In 1937 Frank Taylor, an electrical engineer of 41 High Street, was sold permission to build this house with a 50 foot frontage - a garage followed by 1948.

From 1961-19764 it was sold twice, secondly to Mrs Elizabeth Wyatt, of Jessop House, who moved to York Road after the death of her husband, a teacher at the Grammar School - several grammar-school teachers lived in the area. Mrs Wyatt was famous for the care of British POWs in the war and then – and still - senior citizens at the former school in Barton Road, named after her.

The street was originally called Margaret’s Road, but that part soon became York Road with the building of social housing which expended significantly after WWII. In 1975, before further development, there was a clear footpath behind York Road, used by early pupils of Queen Margaret’s School, opened in 1956.

I wondered if Prior’s Park was part of the Garden City movement of the 1920s but there is no evidence and one feels that it was a zoned development with the private housing partly subsidising the public.

Above: Now-ish: 1975 Street

Our prices include VAT

House Plan of Braemar in 1937

In 1945 Mrs Wyatt welcomes returning British POWs

Map

Left: Then: Prior’s Ground & Little Perry Hill (with pear trees)

LEDPRO WiFi PIR Camera shown (left) with LEDPRO floodlight fitted

St Peter’s Church, Winchcombe

RAMBLING AROUND with Jack B. Walker

With several longer distance footpaths meeting in the ancient Saxon Borough of Winchcombe, the town has become extremely popular with ramblers, writes Jack B. Walker.

As with all my Tewkesbury Direct walks, this route is a fairly easy stroll, which explores some of the hidden corners of the town.

Park in the public car park to the rear of the library (currently £1.00 all day), walk up to Back Lane and turn left. Look out for, and take, the footpath on your left (1) across an open space which was once part of the abbey grounds.

Go through the gate into the church yard (St Peter’s is well worth a visit), pass the church and emerge on to Gloucester Street (2).

Cross over the road and turn left, then right into the very picturesque Vineyard Street (3) Walk down and over the bridge, then up the drive to reach the gatehouse of Sudeley Castle (4)

next to the Gatehouse an along part of the Warden’s Way. Cross the impressive bridge, and keep following the waymarked path, left across Sudeley Castle Car Park to emerge on to a lane (5). Here turn right, and then left into Rushley Lane. Keep following this lane until it meets Stancombe Lane, and turn left (6) to walk down to the B4632.

Turn left, and go through the gate next to the bridge (7) and follow the path across the fields, with the River Isbourne to your right.

There are good views across to the backs of some of Winchcombe’s oldest buildings in Hailes Street.

visit Winchcombe Museum and more town centre shops, inns and cafés, turn right at point 9.)

Specialist in Ground Maintenance

Offering a wide range of turf improvement services:

• Aeration

• Scarification

• Disease Treatments

• Top Dressing

• Overseeding

Distance: Approximately 3.25 miles. Easy terrain.

Car parking: public car park behind Winchcombe Library, Back Lane. Refreshments: wide choice of inns, cafés and restaurants in Winchcombe. Sketch map not to scale: OS Explorer Map OL 45 (The Cotswolds) is recommended.

Sudeley is famous as the last resting place of the sixth wife of Henry VIII, Katherine Parr (the one who survived), and was also visited in her childhood by Queen Elizabeth. The castle and grounds may be visited for an admission fee.

Walk through the gate

• BAR STAFF

• FLOOR STAFF

We offer competitive rates of pay for all of our team. Alongside this, all Royal Hop Pole team members have the opportunity to earn up to 19% bonus (paid monthly) plus additional bonuses such as:

•FREE MEAL and DRINK  on all shifts

• Weekly Pay

•50% off FOODand DRINK in the hour before and after your shift

•20% off  on food, drink and hotel stays

•FREE shares and paid holiday

Interested? Apply online at Indeed or www.jdwetherspooncareers.com

The path narrows and passes between some cottages, to emerge on to Castle Street (8). Turn right and walk up to join the High Street and the town centre (9).

• Turfing

• Seasonal Treatments

• Mowing

• Pesticide Application

• Complete Lawn Care

• General Garden Care and Maintenance

Contact Jack 07772 011795 jackglover63@gmail.com

STAY WITH US and

make

Ideal for family and friends visiting the area Stay

in this historic coaching inn in the very heart of medieval Tewkesbury - all rooms are en suite with plasma TV, tea/coffee making facilities, etc

Find us in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2023

Buffets

UTILITA ARENA BIRMINGHAM

6 APRIL CAZOO PREMIER LEAGUE DARTS

15-16 APRIL HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS

22 APRIL PARAMORE

29 APRIL THE ORIGINAL HARLEM GLOBE TROTTERS www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk

NEC BIRMINGHAM

16 APRIL TOY COLLECTORS FAIR

22-23 APRIL UKTTA TATTOO CONVENTION

13-14 MAY MAKERS CENTRAL www.thenec.co.uk

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL

5 APRIL ZOE LYONS BALD AMBITION

6 APRIL NADIA & KAI: ONCE UPON A TIME

21 APRIL FRAN LEBOWITZ www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

EVERYMAN, CHELTENHAM

3-8 APRIL THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW

11-15 APRIL BLOOD BROTHERS

25-29 APRIL STEEL MAGNOLIAS www.everymantheatre.org.uk

PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM

6-8 APRIL GREASE

28 APRIL CHELTENHAM POETRY FESTIVAL SLAM www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

THE BACON THEATRE, CHELTENHAM

23 APRIL THE JUNGLE BOOK www.bacontheatre.co.uk

THE GUILDHALL, GLOUCESTER

14 APRIL PAUL YOUNG - BEHIND THE LENS 29 APRIL NEW PURPLE (THE MUSIC OF PRINCE) www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

THE HENRICIAN, EVESHAM

6 APRIL MARTI PELLOW: PELLOW TALK

8 APRIL A NIGHT IN KILKENNY

13 APRIL PAUL YOUNG - BEHIND THE LENS

22 APRIL THE RETRO ROCK SHOW www.henrician.org

THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

1 APRIL THE ROCKET MAN - TRIBUTE TO ELTON JOHN

4 APRIL EMILIE MAE WINTERS

12-15 APRIL THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE www.courtyard.org.uk

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

8 APRIL EARWIG (TIME & AGAIN THEATRE COMPANY)

19-22 APRIL WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND www.themarkettheatre.com

MALVERN THEATRES

11-15 APRIL MRS WARREN’S PROFESSION

13 APRIL THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

18-19 APRIL STEWART LEE: BASIC LEE

20 APRIL MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2

21 APRIL THE CLAIRE TEAL SEVEN www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

No.8 ARTS CENTRE, PERSHORE

13 APRIL THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS www.number8.org

RSC STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

18 MARCH-24 JUNE JULIUS CAESAR

22 APRIL-27 MAY CYMBELINE www.rsc.org.uk

SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER

15 APRIL DANNY BAKER: THE LAST SAUSAGE TOUR www.worcestertheatres.co.uk

Cross House, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB www.crosshousetavern.pub

Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct with six of the best questions in our Pub Quiz

1: Which is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world?

2: As at March 2023, how many human beings have walked on the Moon?

3: Which children’s author’s books include The Butterfly Lion, Little Foxes and War Horse?

4: Which American band’s worldwide hit singles in the 1970s include ‘Everybody Dance’, ‘Good Times’ and ‘I Want Your Love?’

5: Aconitum is a highly poisonous plant colloquially

LIVE MUSIC to promote your event here, please use the contact form at www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

SAT 1st APRIL : Cloudbusting: the music of Kate Bush (tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

TUES 4th APRIL : Banter (Nina Zella, Simon Care, Tim Walker and Mark Jolley - music in Eric’s Bar) The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

WED 5th APRIL : The Rod Kelly Trio, Fox & Hounds, Bredon.

SAT 15th APRIL: Dire Streets, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 15th APRIL: The Blockheads, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

THURS 20th APRIL : Tom McGuire and The Brassholes (folk), The Guildhall, Gloucester. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

FRI 21st APRIL : Focus, Gloucester Guildhall gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

FRI 21st APRIL: The Ultimate Classic Rock Show, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

WED 26th APRIL: Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk

FRI 28th APRIL: Country Superstars (tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 29th APRIL: Walk Right Back (Everly Brothers Tribute Show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 29th APRIL: Marty & The Wildcats, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

TUES 2nd MAY : Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 13th MAY : Kim Lowings (Folk in The Foyer), No.8 Arts Centre, Pershore.

SAT 13th MAY: Aswad, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

SAT 13TH MAY: Skerryvore (folk), Gloucester Guildhall. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

SAT 13TH MAY: Iago Banet (Spanish Guitar virtuoso) The Market Theatre, Ledbury. themarkettheatre.com

SAT 13th MAY: A Head Full of Coldplay, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk

SAT 14th MAY: Albert Lee, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

TUES 16th MAY: Hothouse Flowers, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

WED 17th MAY : Show of Hands and Michael Wood, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

FRI 26th MAY: Toyah Wilcox and Robert Fripp, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk

SAT 27th MAY: Tundé (the voice of the Lighthouse Family) Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

SUN 28th MAY: Curtis Stigers, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

known as Monks Hood and what other name?

6: Which suffragette was fatally wounded when trying to halt the King’s horse in the 1913 Epsom Derby?

QUIZ NIGHT

WEDNESDAY 12th APRIL £10 per team of four, 7.30pm

THURSDAY 27th APRIL £13.95 per person, 8.00pm

THURSDAY 7th MAY

ANSWERS: 1. mascusDa

2. Twelve. 3. Michael Morpurgo.

4. Chic. 5. Wolfsbane.

6. Emily Davison.

WARM AND WELCOME SPACES -

Look out for information about local spaces such as the Town Hall, Watson Hall, Library, Baptist Church, PPNP and others. It’s a good way to keep warm and many are offering fun, free activities. Cate has been hosting ‘Daytime Discos’ with George at the Watson Hall, next one: 18th April, 1-5pm. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy the music! (swing dance music). Free event - all welcome.

TEWKESBURY

REPAIR CAFÉ -

Next session Saturday 15th April. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm. Please double check before travelling. If you would like to find out more contact admin_team @tewkesburyrepaircafe. co.uk

BNATURAL REFILL

SHOP - Save unnecessary plastic packaging whilst supporting local, independent traders. Barton Street, Tewkes bnaturaloil.co.uk/refill

PRIOR’S PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD

PROJECT (PPNP)Warm Space Hub Wednesdays 10am–2pm, free coffee, tea and a safe place to relax.

Crafty Nature Community Monthly group meet ups - Learn ways to utilise materials from home and in nature to create arts and crafts. Meet every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10am–11.30am. For more information on either, call James Baker, CCP on 07593446894 or 01684 290069. Venue: PPNP, Jubilee II, York Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU

STONEHILLS

COMMUNITY GROUP -

If you live on the estate, and would like to receive emails, please contact catecody99@gmail.com

Continued on Page 51

OSTEOPATHY ADVICE with Philippa Wingate, Two Rivers Osteopathy

Patients often ask me about slipped discs. Sounds pretty scary doesn’t it, a slipped disc. You start to picture your back as a tower of bones and discs, where a disc slipping out would cause total collapse. But we don’t just collapse to the ground (although the pain it causes may feel like we might), so let’s take a look at exactly what a slipped disc is.

Your spine is made up of lots of bones called vertebrae, which are stacked on top of each other. Between these vertebrae are discs made of a tough fibrous outer and a fluid filled sack inside, a bit like a jam doughnut. These bones and discs are surrounded by several incredibly strong ligaments meaning that even if a disc could slip out (which it can’t!) your spine would still be supported by these ligaments. Phew!

If you put a lot of repetitive or sudden strain through your spine, the discs can bulge under the pressure. If this pressure is a lot, the fluid inside can bulge through the outside (your jam is coming out of your doughnut). This bulge can put pressure on some of the nerve that run down or exit the spine in that area. This can cause several different symptoms, the most common of which is back or neck pain, which

can be accompanied by pain down your arm or leg.

Disc herniations are most common in the neck or low back as these areas have more movement than your upper/mid back which is less mobile due to your ribcage.

Most discs will heal by themselves with a little help from your manual therapist. Your osteopath, physiotherapist or massage therapist can work on the surround-

ing structures to prevent compensation and relax tight muscles, reducing discomfort. Although the disc won’t “go back in”, you body’s immune system will slowly munch away on the bulge until it no longer causes a problem. However, there are some cases where the bulge is severe enough to impinge on your spinal cord and this will require surgical intervention.

If you have any concerns, talk to your healthcare professional.

Dragon Vets Tewkesbury is fully equipped with a sterile operating theatre, digital radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory equipment. Drop in and have a look around. You will see many of the same friendly faces from our main surgery at Dragon Vets Cheltenham.

You can book your visits and pick up pet supplies, food or medications at either surgery if it’s more convenient.

m Philippa Wingate

www.croftfarmwaterpark.com

COME ON DOWN, THE WATER IS LOVELY!

by Tom Lawrence – Activities Manager Croft Farm Water Park

Sail and Paddle at Croft Farm Water Park (Tewkesbury) are pleased to announce that we are now open for the Spring / summer 7 days a week from 8:30am - 5pm for boat hire and tuition. Families and kids parties are welcome – we run some great structured sessions on the water for kids including instruction and kit for the water.

One of our most popular taster lessons at the moment is on stand up paddle boarding - a fantastic up and coming sport that is great for all ages and abilities, you can book on line for these lessons and all boat hire through our web site or just email / call (individuals or groups are welcome, sessions run at regular intervals every day).

If you just want to pop in to the centre to hire a boat, all general public are welcome during our opening times (entrance tickets can be purchased through our web site link also).

We have a big range of easy to use

hire equipment including giant Dragon and Swan shaped pedal boats, slide pedal boats for all the family, single and 2/3 seater sit on top kayaks, stand up paddle boards / giant team stand up paddle boards, catamaran team canoes, sailing boats and windsurfers.

Please see the water sports pages on our website for full details and price list at “www.croftfarmwaterpark.com” email tom@croftfarmleisure. co.uk or call 01684 772321 (ext 2).

We hope to see you down at our lake soon for a water sports experience you and your family/friends will not forget.

CAR SALES OVER 50 QUALITY USED V.A.G CARS ON SITE. ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 13 YEARS.

Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17.30 Saturday 08:30 - 16:30

SUNDAYS CLOSED

Vhub Service Ltd is the specialist Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda & Seat Service MOT and Performance Centre based here in Tewkesbury. Led by Dave Peters we specialise in full dealer level servicing and diagnostics and we are officially recognized by Volkswagen UK as being a fully registered independent Service and Maintenance Centre.

As a recognised Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda Repair Centre we are fully able to update your online Digital Service Record. We access your vehicle’s online Digital Service Record via our manufacturer registered Dealer Portals, allowing us to log all servicing works carried out on your vehicle.

From our advanced and fully equipped workshops we offer these in house services.

• Hunter 4 wheel alignment

• Adas – Erwin-Odis VAG diagnostics

• Air con R134A and R123yf

• In house MOT and loan vehicles

• EV Hybrid and Full Electric vehicle servicing

We have our own main dealer trained VAG technicians so you can rest assured your vehicle is in safe hands. Our well-equipped workshop has six ramps to accommodate our dedicated team of highly skilled technicians! And our clean and bright facility offers more than just an enjoyable working environment

– it’s also full of the latest professional tooling and equipment, for the very best value servicing and repairs on your VAG vehicle.

Changing Reels, Changing Roles

Tewkesbury Museum talks started this season with a Magic Lantern Show.

For the next talk, on Tuesday 4 April, we progress to the Moving Picture Shows of the golden age of cinema, the 1940s.

Guiding us is Linda Pike, film fanatic, cinema historian and for the past 40 years, projectionist at The Roses. Linda will focus on the war years when women replaced men as projectionists and cinema technicians: the pioneer women, and what the work involved in days of 35mm film, double bills, and air raid sirens.

Finally, on 18 April Dr Andrew Crowther, a long serving GP in town, and longtime leading light of the museum, will take us through the several hospitals of Tewkesbury, in the

75th year of the NHS.

All talks at Tewkesbury Baptist Church, Station Road. 7 PM start. £3 admission, including tea, coffee, cake.

Eco-friendly local IT support

Juice IT Solutions are the newest, ECO-FRIENDLY local IT support company in Tewkesbury supporting the town and surrounding areas. Armed with an arsenal of sustainable products, services, and solutions, it’s clear to see why local companies are looking to move their IT support and services to Juice IT.

We are a Gloucestershire-based business focussing on local small businesses in helping them get the most value from their IT and technology.

Whether it’s cloudbased systems, cloud migrations, day-to-day IT Support, and email support, we can help to make it better, help you get the most out of your systems, and most importantly, help make you Secure, Sustainable, and Scalable.

Our goal at Juice IT is to ensure your success as a business and to help you gain the most

value out of your technology and solutions as Eco-Friendly as possible. Whether you need to expand your operations, increase your technological performance, or enhance your organisational effectiveness, we’re here to help ensure that the process is wellplanned and executed to the best of standards.

We focus our attention on small companies, giving the attention you require to support you in your growth as a business. At Juice IT, we are as open and honest as possible. We do not offer you solutions your busi-

ness does not need, and we never sell you something your business will not benefit from.

We offer a, no obliga-

have, this will include a Dark Web Breach search and an overview of the security of your Microsoft Environment.

As a B CORP Pending company, our values mean we care about everything we do for people and the environment. We plant trees and offset carbon every month and do this on your behalf when you work with us too.

tion, IT Audit where we will find any gaps and security risks you may

Visit our website www.juice-it.uk for more information, pop us an email at info@ juice-it.uk or call us on 01684 362320.

INTRODUCING THE BRAND NEW RANGE OF WORCESTER BOSCH CLIMATE 3000I REVERSIBLE AIR CONDITIONING UNITS

Air-to-air heat pump technology heats, or cools your home for a fraction of the cost. A viable alternative to oil or LPG central heating, reducing your carbon footprint and your heating bills.

RING NOW FOR GREAT DEALS ON AIR TO AIR HEAT PUMPS

✓ WARM ✓ EFFICIENT ✓ GREEN

FIT A WORCESTER BOSCH BOILER FOR OIL AND GAS AND TICK THE BOXES

GREENSTAR HEATSLAVE II

✓ UK’s most popular oil combi boiler

✓ For small, medium and large homes

✓ Fills a kitchen sink in 22 seconds

GREENSTAR iSYSTEM

8 GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE US

■ Up to 12 years guarantee on Worcester Boilers

■ Over 35 years experience in the boiler/heating industry

■ Working in partnership with John Lewis

■ Hundreds of Worcester boilers installed locally, both oil and gas

■ Approved insurance works carried out

■ Based in Tewkesbury with offices in Northway

✓ Our most popular boiler

✓ Suitable for all sizes of properties

✓ Can be used with Greenskies Solar Panels & Greenstar Hot Water Storage

01684 293556 info@countyboilers.co.uk www.countyboilers.co.uk 34 Highfield Business Park, Deerhurst, Gloucestershire GL19 4BP

■ All engineers emplyed by company and all C.R.B. checked

■ Many primary spare parts carried by engineers for boiler breakdowns

OILTANK INSTALLATION & REPLACEMENT

Groundworks undertaken to suit property, Pipework, Free Survey, Bespoke steel tanks fabricated to suit location

Tewkesbury Flower Club Meeting in April

Our next meeting is on Tuesday 11th April at Bushley Village Hall, doors open at 1.30pm and the meeting begins at 2.00pm.

This month our demonstrator is Pamela Lewis from Devizes and her title is “The world awakes to the sound of spring”.

Visitors are very welcome to join us and entrance is £6.

No experience is necessary - just join us for a relaxing evening watching an expert arrange beautiful flowers.

MITTON WI

The March meeting was certainly lively. We were visited by England’s Glory Morris Dancers who gave us a potted history of both English Morris Dancing as well as their own.

This year is their 50th anniversary, so we were pleased to help them celebrate. A few dances were demonstrated before our members were invited to join in with a few ‘easy’ moves. There was much laughter watching some committee members forgetting left from right - how hard can it be! Many thanks to England’s Glory for their patience with us all!

Next month is a talk by Ian Boskett about the railway from Tewkesbury to Ashchurch. It is an open meeting so bring along your husbands and partners too. In May we will learn all about bee keeping.

Mitton W.I. meet at Mitton Manor School 7.30pm every first Monday of the month (unless bank holiday). All welcome so come along and join us. If you would like more information please ring 07846 453523, Mitton-WI@gmail.com or look for Mitton WI on Facebook.

Hi, I’m Shaun Taylor from Approved Car Buying Centre. It’s my job to make selling your used car as simple as possible. I’ve been buying vehicles now for 40 years.

THE FIRST STEP is to give me a call so I can get some details of your car and look at the current market value. We can then make an appointment to come and see you - date and time at your convenience.

Once we have inspected your car and relevant paperwork, we will offer you our best possible price. If you are happy with our price, we can complete the transaction there and then.

We pay you direct into your bank account. We settle any outstanding finance agreements and notify DVLA of the sale of your vehicle online. The whole process takes around 25 minutes.

We have no admin fees or charges - you receive 100% of your valuation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND A HELPFUL SERVICE

please call Shaun on 07836 777268 or visit our website at www.approvedcarbuyingcentre.co.uk

SENSATIONAL SANDSTONE OFFERS

The hidden secrets of Tewkesbury Abbey

It too is a standing social record of those who built it 900 years ago and those that have left their mark over the ensuing centuries.

The Abbey Foundation administrator, Anne Priestley, is avidly interested in the history of the Abbey and arranged for us to feature some of the little known secrets with readers that lie within.

Above the beautiful vaulted stone ceilings that everyone can see inside, is a roof space and above that is the roof, leaving a myriad of spaces, each with its own history and significance.

Our first photograph is the roof space above the Chapel of St. Catherine and St. John featuring a mix of stone and brickwork, and clearly showing the roof construction.

Lying against the walls are copies of carved stone bosses and various items of statuary that probably have been in the main Abbey in the past.

Our second photograph, shows the space above the Nave, it shows a longitudinal stone

hump which is the upper surface of the beautiful

To many residents in the town, Tewkesbury Abbey is the historical hub, it is a place of worship, a venue for concerts and of course the place where Weddings and funerals take place.

m The roof space above the Chapel of St. Catherine and St. John.

m The stone hump and structure in the space above the Nave.

vaulted ceiling that lies underneath.

You may notice small lengths of pipe inserted into the upper faces of the main roof timbers,

these were filled with preservatives that drip feed into the wood to ensure the well being of the structure over time.

Readers wishing to research the Abbey history can read a new book by C. E. Whitney, the work marks the 900th anniversary of its consecration and dedication in October 1121, tracing the story of the building and its community through fire, flood, a raiding party, papal intervention, the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, two world wars and a pandemic in the 21st century.

After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the Abbey was bought by its parishioners and became a parish church.

It was reordered and restored by Sir George Gilbert Scott and others in the nineteenth century, and is renowned to this day for its fine medieval architecture and stained glass, music and liturgy.

Richly illustrated in full colour with more than 100 specially-commissioned photographs, together with prints and four reconstructions of how the Abbey may have looked in centuries past.

The book is available from the Abbey shop and Touching Souls Tearoom.

Do others believe you could better yourself?

and see us for a chat about a brighter future.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON STROLLS AROUND THE LANES AND ALLEYS

EXPLORE TEWKESBURY’S SOCIAL HERITAGE

Sunday 2nd April, 16th April and 30th April

Walks leave from Warder’s Alley at 2.30pm and last about 2 hours.. Fee for the tour: £2.50, no booking required.

WHAT’S ON at the John Moore Museum

m REVEALING

REPTILIANS DAY

Description: Join us for our first Revealing Reptilians day, where you will have the chance to see Leopard Geckos, Bearded Dragons, Water Dragon, Red Tegu, Tortoise, Wonder Gecko and a snake!

Date: Saturday 15th

April

Times: 11am and 12pm

Location: Old Baptist Chapel

Tickets: Adults £6, Concessions £4.50 & Children £2 Booking: call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org

imagining its journey to a natural habitat rich in life. The stories and pictures they make in the classroom will be brought together in a collective work of art, which will be unveiled on Earth Day, Saturday 22nd April 2023. So come along to see the creative work designed by the pupils of Tewkesbury C of E Primary School, Tirlebrook Primary School and Queen Margaret’s Primary School in town.

Date: Saturday 22nd

April

Times: 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 4.30pm

Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: Free Entry

m RISE OF THE ENGLISH ARCHER

Description: Our brilliant Living History Re-enactors, Glennan Carnie and Nigel Packwood, will be revealing the evolution in English military tactics from the 11th to the 15th centuries. Discover how the simple archer rose in stature on the battlefield, and the impact that mounted archers had on enemy forces.

Date: Saturday 29th

April

Times: 11am and 2.30pm

Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: Adults £6, Concessions £4.50 & Children £2

Booking: call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org

m EARTH DAY

EXHIBITION

Description: Join us for our firstThe Wild Escape is a national project involving primary school children across the UK to explore the animals in their local museum, and create an artwork

MODEL BOAT EVENING FOR SEVERN UNIT MVS

Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service held a very unusual and special evening when members of the Unit held a fascinating model boat evening.

Head of Unit Nic Price brought along his model of a Scottish Puffer boat and explained the history of these puffer boats.

Regional Volunteer Officer Gordon McDonald showed a model of the Cutty Sark which he found in a second hand shop and is in the process of restoring and will be making masts and rigging for her soon.

He also brought along the model of a 180 foot topsail schooner the “Lucy Johns” and this ship has great local historical significance.

Unit members were enthralled by the history of this ship which was built in Appledore, North Devon in 1906 and was one of four steel schooners built in that year and was registered in Gloucester for the owners of the Lucy and Pillar Warehouse in the docks and operating out of Gloucester and Bridgewater.

She was a familiar sight in and around the Bristol Channel, Sharpness Canal and the Irish Sea.

Sadly the ship foundered off the Irish Coast in what was then described as a hurricane on the 16th December 1910 while carrying a cargo of oats from Ireland to Southampton and the ship and all hands were lost.

At that time a wall mounted “half boat builders scale model” of the ship was on display in the owner’s Gloucester Shipping Office but after the ship was lost this was thrown away.

Fortunately it was found by William Sheppard who worked as a Shipping Manager in the docks and with his Son he resurrected what he recovered and hand carved a mirror image to create a model of the complete boat.

This was eventually stored for around 100 years in the attic of the family home until his Grand Daughter Sue Pemberton found it during house clearance and showed it to her friend Gordon McDonald who set about major restoration work.

THANK YOU TBC

I would like to say a big thank you to Tewkesbury Borough Council for cleaning all the footpaths and alleys in Tewkesbury town centre.

Lets just hope that we can all keep it that way and take our litter home.

Its a pleasure to walk down the alleys although I must admit that I have already picked up some litter!!

Come on everyone, keep our lovely town clean and litter free!

m Severn Unit MVS members with the model ships. Gordon McDonald who restored the “Lucy Johns” is on the far right.

m “Lucy Johns” after she was built in Appledore in 1906.

Nicolette Philipson-Stow

Tewkesbury’s, A

opens a new Super Salon

Beauty teacher and therapist,Vicky Bonney, is very pleased to announce the re location of her salon, A Class Of Beauty, into a spacious and magnificent Tudor property at 8 and 9 High Street known locally as, The Nodding Gables.

A team of eleven therapists, the Super Salon features, six nail treatment desks, four pedicure seats, four Lash Couches, two brow chairs, three treatment rooms, an Aesthetic Clinic, Tanning by studio, Bronze 365, includes two stand up, one lie down as well as a tanning booth.

Clients can select, beauty options, including, fantastic Gel and Acrylic nails including Biab extensions, manicures, lash extensions, and lifting, Brows, Tattoo, Lips Eyebrows and eyeliner, Botox treatments and fillers, as well as non surgical anti aging treatments, hair removal and waxing.

Relaxing, stress reducing treatments include hot stone, facial massages and Charcoal peels.

Vicky is qualified to run her training academy, teaching apprentices and professionals,

in many aspects of the beauty business.

Vicky says “I am so excited to be making this next major step, increasing my capacity to offer so much more, my thanks go to all our great customers and some that have really helped us on the way.

A special thank you to the wonderful Rob Newman, who laid our original floor 20 years ago, it still looks as good as the day it was laid.

Everyone, come and meet our team on Saturday 1st April, there will be exclusive discounts, goody bags, with Prosseco of course”.

To advertise call 01242 621346 or visit www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

All types of domestic and commercial building including electrical and mechanical work Tel 01684 295754

Unit G4 Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury www.agbonifaceandsonsltd.co.uk

Block Paving / Driveways / Patios / Fencing / Civil Engineering / Garden Maintenance / Groundworks

MAPLEDENE, FIDDINGTON, TEWKESBURY, GLOS, GL20 7BJ

TELEPHONE: 01684 292592

MOBILES: 07768 696639 / 07836 781922

Email: info@hartell.co.uk

Over 30 years experience, all types of renovation, restoration and new work. email: markanthonycontracts@icloud.com 07963 311157 or 01684 299912

We supply and fit uPVC and Aluminium WINDOWS, DOORS CONSERVATORIES and ROOF LANTERNS in a range of styles and colours

Firestone Rubber Roofing and Firestone Liquid 500 System Installers

Lifespan of 50 years

Year Guarantee

Firestone rubber roofing flexes and lasts under all conditions - the durable alternative to felt

Mythe Construction - for all aspects of PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT DESIGN AND BUILD NEW BUILDS

MAINTENANCE

Mythe Construction Limited Mythe Crest, Mythe Road Tewkesbury GL20 6EB

Tel/Fax: 01684 290707

Mobile: 07826 948909

Tewkesbury based - Established  over 10 years Kitchens, Second fix, decking, doors, balustrades, skirting boards, architrave, flooring, window repairs All Property maintenance considered Paul V. Harvey Tel: 01684 275195 or 07866 900 637 Find me

IS YOUR CHIMNEY SAFE?

DOES IT LEAK? DOES IT NEED RE-BUILDING, RE-POINTING, REDUCING, CAPPING, COWLINGS, BIRDGUARDS, FLASHING REPAIRED/RENEWED FIREPLACE RESTORATION, ROOF REPAIRS EXTERNAL DECORATION UNDERTAKEN

Ring THE CHIMNEY MAN now FULLY INSURED - C.I.T.B REGISTERED 01684 273538 Mobile 07801 700254

To advertise call 01242 621346 or visit www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

SECURITY SYSTEMS

F REEMA N

ELECTRICAL/SECURITY

INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC INSTALLATIONS

SSAIB REGISTERED COMPANY

Established 21 years

BASED IN TEWKESBURY

INTRUDER ALARM, FIRE, CCTV, DOOR ACCESS MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR TO ALL SYSTEMS, 24 HOUR CALLOUT

FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS TEL 01684 273248 MOBILE 07966 174648 EMAIL freemansecurity@btinternet.com

SEWING,TAILORING & REPAIRS

Service and Repair on all makes and models

01684 273667 07903 414735

leandaroberts@hotmail.com Est. 1976

& DRY CLEANING

at Monarch Drycleaners

8 Mitton Way, Tewkesbury GL20 8AN

• SEWING ALTERATIONS • REPAIRS

• CURTAIN/BLIND MAKING

• BRIDAL ALTERATIONS • HABERDASHERY

Tel (01684) 850496 or 07773 718786 jofiggett@yahoo.co.uk

TREE PRUNING & SURGERY

MATT HALE TREE SURGERY

01452 780831/07884 380406

www.matthaletreesurgery.co.uk

See our main advert on page 8

WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS

Is it Illegal to Leave Bins on the Pavement?

Leaving a bin out on the pavement is not a criminal matter, but it is a civil one. The government has given local authorities the power to issue fines for persistent breaches of the rules, writes Alan Purkiss of Tewkesbury Civic Society.

Here are extracts from the government advice to councils:

“The Government wishes to encourage a measured and balanced approach, where householders are not penalised for minor breaches of waste bin rules.

“The use of these penalties should focus on those who cause genuine harm to the local environment. It is good practice to try and inform the household about any issues on the presentation of their waste bins.

“For example, you could use a letter or information notice. You should do this before moving to the process of issuing penalty notices ... Where you chose to do so, you must follow these rules when issuing fixed penalties under section 46A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

When you can issue fixed penalties:

“You may issue them when householders do not follow your waste

collection rules, and their failure to comply does one of the following:

• causes or is likely to cause a nuisance

• has a negative effect or is likely to have a detrimental effect on local amenities

Examples

“You can issue fixed penalties if householders put waste out so it:

• causes an obstruction to neighbours, such as forcing people using wheelchairs or buggies to walk on the road

• restricts access to the pavement or street, for example leaving waste receptacles (bins or bags) out for several days

• is likely to attract vermin like foxes and rats, such as leaving bags or open receptacles out days before a waste collection

• is unsightly

How to issue fixed penalties

“You must follow 3 stages: 1. Written warning 2. Notice of intent 3.

WEBSITE DESIGN

Final notice how much they must pay, noting the maximum full penalty you can apply is £80 and how they can pay it”

Presently TBC do NOT assume the powers that the Government allows them, as some Authorities do.

TBC trust the community to be good neighbourly and civic minded and NOT keep Bins on pavements. Let’s live up to that trust and make 2023 the year of the vanishing bin, before TBC changes its mind!

Alan Purkiss

WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOCAL SCENE with Cate Cody - continued from Page 31

SPRING AT TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVE

At last we can look forward to spring which is always such a lovely feeling at the end of winter! Plenty is happening on the reserve to look out for.

One of the early and well-known signs of spring is the appearance of the pretty, delicate white flowers on the blackthorn trees which blossom before their leaves emerge, from around March onwards.

This is in contrast to hawthorn which blossoms after the leaves show, from around early May thus other names May Tree, or May Blossom. These lovely blossoms always make it feel like spring really is here!

Of course the frogs and toads have been busy since January, and we now have our annual show of frog spawn, hopefully yielding a new generation of resident amphibians across our ponds and reed beds.

Dragonfly larva, water boatmen, birds and snakes are all known to eat frog spawn so there needs to be lots of it for the species to continue every year. Look out for toad spawn too, which can be identified apart from frog spawn as it is laid in longer strings rather than clumps.

In the bird world you should soon be hearing the chiffchaff. While some remain resident in parts of the UK, most arrive back from their wintering grounds in Africa and the Mediterranean later in March.

And who doesn’t love to hear the sound of a cuckoo as a marker for the coming of spring and summer? They arrive back from Africa in late March and April and do their thing. It’s strange how many of us love to hear these rather uncouth birds. It’s such a bizarre, but finely balanced operation to get one of their eggs into another birds nest.

Different cuckoos become specialists on their favoured host bird, so for instance we have reed warbler which is a favoured species of some cuckoos which will specialise in laying an egg to match those of the reed warbler. Very clever! Don’t forget to look out for the appearance of lady’s smock, or cuckoo flower, in the meadows across the reserve. The name is acquired quite simply because it appears at around the same time as the cuckoo.

WINDOWS & GLAZING

These lovely pale pinkish flowers sit in contrast to the brighter yellow of celandine which can be seen across the reserve as well. These pretty, early flowers are a precursor to what will hopefully be a good year for the flowering species in our lovely hay meadow this year.

We have plenty of tasks to do on the reserve as we move into spring and summer, so if you would like to find out more about joining our friendly team of volunteers we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at info@tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk

MIKE PHILLIPS

Tel: 0774 706 2108 / 01684 561521

michealphillips@btinternet.com

14 Kingshill Close, Malvern WR14 2BP

New services continue to be commissioned in Community Pharmacy which is great news for your GP, as they are so busy, writes Peter Badham.

A new service is about to be launched where we can supply prescription medication to treat urinary tract infections.

This is a big step forward as currently we have to refer patients to the 111 service.

To cope with this and other new services that are planned for later this year , I am pleased to confirm Badhams are undergoing a substantial extension at Priors Park Pharmacy to provide two new consulting rooms and an enlarged pharmacy.

Peter

Peter Badham