Time is running out to secure tickets to Lakefest, a local independent and vibrant five day family festival at Eastnor.
Being held from 7th11th August in the picturesque deer park, Lakefest is brimming with a perfect blend of family fun and entertainment.
There are workshops and activities for all ages, and a programme of live music which includes the energetic Rudimental, the iconic Stranglers, legendary Libertines and the charismatic Olly Murs. Lakefest is now only days away - but you can still get your tickets and find out more online at www.lakefest.co.uk
Right at the start of August (1st-4th) AppFest Gloucestershire brings more stars of pop and rock to the area.
Held at Hillworth Farm near Longdon, topping the bill this year are The Boomtown Rats,
Scouting For Girls, Feeder, Cast, Rebecca Ferguson, Nik Kershaw, Katrina (formerly of The Waves) and Chesney Hawkes. For more information and tickets see www.app-fest.co.uk
The Sunshine Festival (22nd-25th August) at Upton-upon-Severn has a nostalgic look to its line-up, with Jason Donovan, David Essex, Tony Christie and Right Said Fred headlining.
Folk and Jazz fans are well catered for in the area too: you can find more details of these
local events on page 30 of this magazine.
Festivities in Twyning take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with a barn dance, motor show and fete. See page 51.
There are so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with the family this month too. Walks, weekend festivals, country, agricultural and horticultural shows, live outdoor theatre and exhibitions. You will find a selection of ‘what’s ons’ listed on page 12.
“Whenever I need my car looked after, Northway Lane MOT are my first choice” Dom Joly, Comedian
Lakefest returns to Eastnor this month
The Story of the Forest
by Linda Grant Paperback £9.99
This title succinctly sums up Linda Grant's new book as when 14 year old Mina Mendel ventures into the forest outside Riga to find mushrooms it becomes her family's saga.
Forever changing her life and the fortunes of her and her eldest brother, Jossel. The year is 1913. She meets a group of young men who are Bolsheviks.
Nothing untoward happens, Mina enjoys her day and later discusses it with Jossel; she then repeats the adventure some days later, shares a chaste kiss with one young man and again returns home. However another brother, Itzik, who had overheard his siblings earlier discussion had this time followed her and misuses his information. Itzik is not a nice person. Jossel fears that Mina will be forced into an arranged marriage, to an older man. He overrules his father, a successful Jewish córn merchant, they set sail for England to seek a new life in America. WWI intervenes and they are stranded, penniless in Liverpool, leaving their parents two younger siblings and Itzik behind.
Jossel, an innocent, is however ensnared into marriage by a fellow passenger on the voyage across the North Sea. Lia, a young widow, travelling to New York with her father to start a new life spots him as a likely new husband and soon they are married, but whilst her father can afford to sail to New York the newly marrieds have insufficient funds for three berths. They remain in lodgings, Jossel who used to do the books for his father finding some work helping local businesses until the war sees him eventually enlisted and sent off to fight. Mina ends up working in the canteen of an ammunitions factory.
Jossel returns unharmed from the war where he helped save the life of Louis,
whose father runs a business in Leeds. Louis meets Mina proposes and they marry then he with Jossel open a Liverpool branch which flourishes. Both families prosper, have children and move out of town to the new suburbs.
Jossel's and Mina's stories and lives fill the book as they and their families mature. Mina tries to contact her parents without success; the second World War intervenes and all hope of contact disappears, the occasional rumour about Itzik, but nothing about her parents or the two younger children.
Mina though fondly remembers her two adventures into the forest, has inclinations towards Communism because of her memories of the Bolshevik lads, until the barbarity of Stalin and her comfortable provincial life mellows those allegiances.
After college their daughter Paula moves for a while to London before events bring her back to Liverpool and the family coalesce as Mina's childhood adventure is retold across the generations, throughout her long life.
Linda Grant is such a good storyteller, her writing effortless reading. There is a lot in this book to enjoy, I devoured it; her depiction of events during the 20th century will please her many fans, and hopefully tempt new readers to sample her earlier novels.
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
WHY TEWKESBURY IS THRIVING:
Lee Martin sent us this photograph which shows the crowds enjoying the Euros on the big screen in the riverside gardens of the Black Bear. The town has been buzzing with live entertainment and festivals this summer, massively supported by locals and tourists alike.
SPLASH OUT THIS SUMMER!
Autospares in Barton Street, Tewkesbury, is offering great deals on top quality paddle boards this month.
Grab a bargain package from top quality manufacturer Mobyn for just £299, a saving of £400 on the normal price of £699. The price includes the full kit with all you need to get on the water.
Autospares also offer a range of adults and children’s bikes, car accessorises and mobility scooters. For more information see their advert on page 30.
Paddle boards now at Autospares
Stand up paddle boarding for all ages and abilities
Individuals and groups, all abilities
Instruction sessions daily, Boat hire, Dragon & Swan Pedal Boats 2 & 3 seat sit on top Kayaks, Catamaran Team Canoes Sailing Boats and Windsurfers
Book online at www.croftfarmwaterpark.com
Email tom@croftfarmleisure.co.uk or call 01684 772321 (ext. 2) to book tuition
Meg Anderson has stepped up as president, taking over from Anthony Stockman. Meg’s a talented local photographer and also the friendly face at the Roses Theatre. Her husband Bruce, a former military man and yachting instructor, is also on the team. Neil Williams, with his many local sports connections, is our new Treasurer, and Robyn Hancock manages our social media – when her new baby gives her a break!
Our club might be small, but we’re definitely active. For our older folks, we run monthly quizzes at three local care homes, with residents loving our cheeky questions. For the younger crowd, we’ve kitted out a junior darts team with snazzy new shirts and supported the Roses’ Young Creatives programme. We’ve also had fun with Alderman Knight School, hosting hoopla at their Summer Fete, and we took 48 kids to the KidsOut day at Cattle Country, joining 800 other excited children.
We’re also lending a hand to people with disabilities through PhysioNet, a charity that recycles walking aids. So far, we’ve collected over 200 aids that would’ve otherwise ended up in the skip. Keep those donations coming!
Meg’s year as president is packed with plans. We’re gearing up
for the Bonfire and Fireworks event in November and will be helping Santa meet all the kids in Mitton in December.
Want to find out more about how you can get involved? Contact our Secretary, John Halstead, at halsts@hot-
Come August, we’ll be back at the Tewkesbury Classic Vehicle Festival. Plus, we’ll be teaming up with other local groups and charities to support our community.
mail.com, or drop by one of our meetings at the Roses Theatre every second Monday at 6.30 pm. Looking forward to a fun and busy year with Meg leading the way!
m Anthony Stockman and Meg Anderson
Volunteers needed to help keep town looking blooming marvellous
The flowers are blooming in Tewkesbury thanks to the generous support of sponsors and the time committed by volunteers, writes Karen Brennan.
And thank you to those of you who remove litter that kills the plants and replant those that have been disturbed.
Our aim is to help make Tewkesbury, particularly the High Street, an attractive environment that looks cared for and will attract both visitors and investment for the benefit of all living in this area.
But we need your help. It is true to say that many hands make light work, the old adage about a stitch in time is also relevant.
Had the debris been swept back from the pavements on a regular basis it would not have encroached over the years to the position we are now have where in places only single file is possible along certain stretches.
It doesn't take long to make a big difference, see below the before and after photos. It took just 30 minutes to liberate the buried drain and get rid
of the mud and litter pedestrians had had to cross.
If you can spare some of your time to help keep Tewkesbury a clean, accessible town to be proud to live in, please get in touch. Contact Tewkesbury in Bloom by calling 01684 438485, or email tewkesinbloom@gmail. com
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Celebrating History and Community
Cllr. Chris Danter, Cllr. Simon Raywood and Cllr. Paul Jones had the pleasure of being invited to coffee at Graham Court, Oldbury Road to meet the residents and to see the stained-glass window. We were made very welcome and treated to lovely homemade cakes baked by one of the residents.
Graham Court was originally opened in 1872 for use as Tewkesbury Rural Hospital and paid for through money raised by the people of the Town.
The window was added later, as a memorial to Dr Daniel Devereux, the founding father and first Medical Officer of the Hospital. The money raised for this memorial was once again through public subscription.
When Tewkesbury Hospital moved to its present site on Barton Road, the building became the administrative centre for the Municipal Borough of Tewkesbury until the reorganisation of local government and the establishment of Tewkesbury Borough Council and Tewkesbury Town Council in the mid 1970’s.
By
Paul
Graham Court today is still serving the needs of the Town, providing sheltered housing for townspeople.
Town Mayor.
Jones, Tewkesbury
m (From left to right) Tewkesbury Town Mayor, Paul Jones, Cllr Simon Raywood and Nick Ven Tinteren, Service Manager for Independent Living Scheme for Bromford.
Tewkesbury CC Cricket & Cider Festival 2024
FRIDAY 23RD AUGUST - SUNDAY 25TH
The popular annual Cricket and Cider Festival will once again be returning to Tewkesbury CC’s Gander Lane ground this August Bank Holiday, promising to be bigger and better than ever!
With live cricket across three days, spectators will have lots of action to see with plenty of outdoor seating in Tewkesbury’s largest beer garden.
A cider tent will be on hand to keep people refreshed throughout the event with a selection of traditional ciders but we also have the club bar serving real ales, lagers, spirits, wine and soft drinks.
On Friday evening we have live music in the club with local singer and guitarist Tom Brown, then on Saturday we have the hugely popular Delray Rockets returning to Tewkesbury CC after playing at the festival last year.
On the pitch, a Tewkesbury CC XI will take on a team of ex-Tewkesbury players for Friday’s game in the annual President’s Day fixture (kick off 1pm).
Then on Saturday, Tewkesbury 2nds welcome Shurdington’s 1st XI to the Swilgate
ground for an important Gloucestershire League Division Two Match (1pm).
Finally on Sunday, Corse Lawn CC are the visitors for a friendly match to round the
Leather Bottle - Cecil Sharp (1859-1924)’ by Richard
WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOCAL SCENE with Cate Cody
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Next session due Saturday 17th August. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2.00-5.00pm. Please double check before travelling. Bring electrical, toys, clothes, anything that needs fixing. Tools can also be sharpened. Tea and coffee available while you wait.
TEWKESBURY ABBEY
DUCK TRAILS -Waddle up to the Abbey this Summer and have a quack at the new Duck Trail! Throughout August until Sunday 1st September. The trail will guide you around this beautiful medieval building searching for hidden
ducks, along the way, you’ll discover some fascinating facts about the history of Tewkesbury Abbey. Collect a trail sheet from the Welcome Desk, and when you're finished, pick up your sticker from the Abbey Shop. Good luck! This trail is suitable for all the family, and it's free to take part in with no advance booking required. However, donations to the Abbey are gratefully received.
The trail is usually available 9.30am-4pm Monday-Saturday, and 12-4pm on Sundays. Sometimes opening hours change due to special events and services, so please check the
website before you visit www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk
TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVENew Carers Social Group. Meet others, socialise, enjoy the outdoors and nature related activities on the Fourth Monday of the month, 10.00am-11.30am, for details please contact 3w@tewkesbury naturereserve.org.uk
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - for information see the website
www.gloucestershire
DAYTIME DANCECate and George are taking a rest during August, but we’re back in early September: Our next ‘Daytime Dance’ will be Monday 9th September, 2-4.30pm at the Watson Hall. Please note the later start time just for September. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy the music, watch the dancers, or have a chat and a cup of tea! Free event - all welcome. There will be someone to say hello when you arrive, so you can come on your own or with friends.
Book Fair and Auction is a huge success
Volunteers at Bookworm are celebrating after a successful book fair and auction event last month with auctioneer Steven Bruce providing a popular valuation service, writes Shelby Powell.
One member of the public arrived at the Watson Hall with a carrier bag of Harry Potter first edition books for assessment! Steven was also delighted to assess a beautiful leather bound book from the 17th Century on the subject of ornithology with hand painted picture plates.
The £5 book stall selection also proved popular with the public while coffee table books and Commonwealth stamps sold well with many exceeding their reserve price.
Don't worry if you missed out, Bookworm is open 6 days per week from 10am to 4pm. Books of higher value or of a niche nature are listed online and can be posted out. The online bookstore can be viewed at www.abebooks.com
Volunteers would like to thank the public for their generous donations to Hope for Tomorrow Cancer charity which provides mobile treatment at Tewkesbury hospital.
The Bookworm project is entirely reliant on local support, the supply of book and stamp donations as well a small army of volunteers giving up their time and offering their skills - so please keep up your support as next year we will be marking our fifteenth anniversary.
Body2Soul Team
We have a new massage therapist who joined our team on Tuesday 9th July. Heather has 13+ years in the beauty and spa industry and specialises in all holistic therapies including Deep Tissue Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, Pregnancy Massage. Reiki and Oncology massage plus Hopi Ear Candling and Body Exfoliation and Moisturising. Heather also provides facials including Microdermabrasion and Non-Surgical.
These will all be treatments that we will be offering at Body2Soul including any of our combination massage treatments.
Alongside her holistic therapies, Heather offers some beauty treatments, such as standard and gel manicures/pedicures plus eyebrow tinting and waxing which we will be introducing in the near future. What can’t she do?
If you are interested in any holistic/massage treatments then let us know. We are very excited for Heather joining our team and we have some availability remaining for her. Heather will be working on Tuesdays and Saturdays on alternate weeks including Tuesday evenings for the time being.
We look forward to you meeting Heather at our salon
Throughout August we will be offering with any 1 hour treatment a FREE 15 minute taster of either Reiki or Reflexology
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Bestselling Author Launches Gloucestershire Crime Series
Gloucester-based author Rachel Sargeant is continuing her fictional life of crime with a new series set in Gloucestershire.
Following on from the success of her previous thrillers, Rachel has turned to local backdrops for her writing.
Rachel said: ‘Gloucester is a goldmine of inspiration for the first two books in my Gloucestershire Crime Series. I used real landmarks, renamed some, switched
a few around and simply invented others. In the first book, Her Deadly Friend, a sequence of murders rocks West Gloucestershire.
“As the body count tops five, Detective Inspector Steph Lewis’s investigations point to her arch enemy from school days as the chief
suspect. But is Steph obsessed with a schoolgirl vendetta or closing in on a deadly killer?
“One major scene is inspired by Painswick Rococo Garden, and I’m delighted that my publisher has relaunched the book with a new cover that shows the Garden’s ‘Exedra’ fol-
ly – this takes pride of place on the cover of Her Charming Man, Book Two in the series.”
Her Charming Man has all the elements of a modern police procedural. A woman is found dead in the Cathedral grounds. Few, not even her family, mourn her. Meanwhile, in a separate
investigation, a man has gone missing, and his wife and colleagues fear for the safety of this ‘perfect gentleman. A witness says the cases are linked, but sceptical police question what could possibly connect an unpopular woman’s murder with a charming man’s disappearance.
Rachel has lived in Abbeymead, Gloucester, with her husband and children for the past thirteen years. Before becoming a full-time author, she managed learning resources centres at schools in Gloucester and Cheltenham.
She added: “My detective, DI Steph Lewis of the West Gloucestershire Police, lives in a flat in ‘The Bell Tower’, inspired by the Clock Tower apartments in Abbeymead, near my home. However, the series isn’t confined to Gloucester.
In Her Charming Man, Steph’s search for the missing man leads her to the River Severn at Sharpness. In writing the book, I researched the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) and one chapter features Sharpness Lifeboat Station.
“Book Three will see Steph probe a locked
room mystery in Cheltenham, before Book Four – her most emotionally ever case – finds her in Tewkesbury.”
A full-time author for the last five years, Rachel has achieved worldwide sales reaching over 100,000 copies of her crime fiction with HarperCollins and Hobeck Books. After many years in Germany, where she taught English, she settled in Gloucester, studying for a doctorate at the University of Birmingham. The Gloucestershire Crime Series is available from Alisons bookshop in Tewkesbury high street, in other local bookshops, Painswick Rococo Garden and Amazon.
The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show
16TH - 18TH AUGUST at The Three counties Showground Malvern
One of the UK’s leading country music weekenders, stay on site for up to four nights or visit for the day to browse the exhibition area.
Spend your day exploring local and national dealers, who will be displaying a diverse range of new & used motorhomes and campervans for sale
Shop a vast amount of exhibitors showcasing everything you could need for your next camping trip.
Four nights camping available for £82 with four nights of live country acts included in your pitch.
Be part of a night to remember with a headline show from ‘A Country Night in Nashville’ (Starring Dominic Halpin & the Hurricanes).
Get in the spirit of the festival with authentic living history displays, educational workshops and live-action performances based around 19th Century Western America.
New for 2024: Expanded Advice Centre –Large selection of guest speakers presenting inspirational talks.
Archery & axe throwing games plus tuition.
What can you expect to see at the show: Motorhomes, Campervans, Conversions, Fifth Wheels, Tow Cars, Awnings, Outdoor Cloth-
Day tickets available for £7 in advance, £10 on the gate.
ing, Electricals, Camping Equipment, Electric Bikes, Gadgets, Habitation, Cooking Equipment, Climate Control, Security, Finance, Insurance, Leading Clubs, Demonstrations.
Fun for all the family this Summer
DINOSAUR
ADVENTURE LIVEThursday 1st August. Trouble on Volcano Island - the UK’s biggest dinosaur show comes to the Roses Theatre. See dinosauradventurelive. com
TEWKESBURY
ABBEY - Until Sunday 4th August. Light and Colour Oils and Glassan exhibition by Cathy Instone. Details www. tewkesburyabbey.org.uk or rosestheatre.org
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD GUIDED
WALKS - Thurs 1st Aug, 7pm and Sun 1st Sept, 10am. Two hour walk covering around two miles. Stout footwear recommended. Walks are free, but donations to the Battlefield Society are welcome. Start from Abbey Gates in Abbey Lawn Car Park. Dogs on leads welcome.
BATTLE OF EVESHAM FESTIVALSaturday 3rd - Sunday 4th August. Re-enactment of the 13th century battle at the Crown and Corporation Meadows by the River Avon. www.battleofevesham. co.uk
OLD CHAPEL COURT CONCERTS - Saturday 3rd August, 3.00pm. George Ross, cello and Alastair Ross, harpsichord. Music from their new CD by J S Bach and Alessandro Scarlotti. At the Old Baptist Chapel. Tickets from the John Moore Museum.
PLAY GLOUCESTERSHIRE PLAY RANGERSMonday 4th August Derek Graham Play Area (GL20 8EH) Tuesday 20th August, The Vineyards.10am-4pm. Activities aimed at school aged children. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Details www playgloucestershire.org. uk
WORKSHOP CROCHET CLASSSunday 4th August, 11am-2pm. George Learn how to double crochet, half treble crochet and more in Tewkesbury. Details and bookings www.TheNook Studios.co.uk
TEWKESBURY
GUIDED WALKSTuesday evenings until 27th August. 90 minute walks exploring Tewkesbury’s history and heritage. Meet at the Abbey Gates (opposite the Bell Hotel at 7pm. £10 per person.
TEWKESBURY EVENING ALLEYWAY
WALKS - Wednesdays 14th & 28th August. Evening strolls will leave Warder’s Alley (next to the Acorns store in the High Street) at 7pm, and last for about two hours. Each walk will take a different route, and cover the history of the buildings and the people who lived within them. The cost is £2.50 and no advance booking is required.
FABULOUS FLYING
MACHINES - Monday 12th August. Activity event at the Watson Hall exploring science and engineering. For ages 725.Details and bookings 0208 150 3767
BROADWAY CAR
SHOW - Saturday 17th - Sunday 18th August. Classic and vintage cars gather at the green. broadwaycarshow.co.uk
FAIRFORD STEAM RALLY - Saturday 17th - Sunday 18th August. Lake Field, Fairford, GL7 4BT. Full details www. fairfordsteamshow.co.uk
SUMMER FAIRSunday 18th August, 1pm-5pm. At Tewkesbury Fields Care Home. Good day farm animals, outdoor games, raffle, barbecue and refreshments. Raising funds for Tewkesbury Christmas Lights & Seren’s Wish charities. The Oxhey, Tewkesbury.
FIREMAN SAM’S GREAT CAMPING ADVENTUREWednesday 21st August. Spectacular new live show for all the family.
At the Roses TheatreTickets from box office 01684 295074 or rosestheatre.org
PERSHORE PLUM FESTIVAL - Saturday 24th - Monday 26th August. Food, entertainment and attractions in the town all weekend. www.pershoreplum festival.org.uk
EVESHAM ANGLING
FESTIVAL - Sat 24thMon 26th August. Three day coarse fishing festival and tented village by the River Avon. eveshamfestival.com
GREAT COMBERTON FLOWER SHOWSaturday 24th August. For details see www. theflowershow.org.uk
WINCHCOMBE SHOW - Monday 26th August. Indoor and outdoor stalls, flower and horticultural show, classic cars, music and entertainment all day. Winchcombe School, Greet Road 12.30-5pm.
TWELFTH NIGHT AT TEWKESBURY ABBEYSaturday 31st August 6.00pm. Outdoor Shakespeare - grounds open from 5pm for picnics. Tickets from the Everyman Theatre 01242 572573 or everymantheatre.org.uk
GOOD VIBES ONLYSaturday 31st August 1pm-11pm. Clavell & Hind Brewery & Tap Room, Elmstone Hardwick, GL51 9SY/ One day music festival. Tickets skiddle.com
MORETON SHOWSaturday 7th September. The UK’s largest one day agricultural show. See www.moretonshow.co.uk
BROADWAY HORTICULTURAL SHOW - Saturday 14th September. Locally grown plants, fruits and vegetables on the green. www.broadwayhcs.co.uk
DESIGNER OUTLET CENTRE SET TO OPEN NEXT SPRING
Construction of the new Cotswold Designer Outlet Centre, next to the M5 Junction 9 at Ashchurch, is progressing well.
About 75% of the space has now been let to well known household brands in fashion, homewares, sport and lifestyle retailing, as well as food and beverage outlets. Over 50 stores are expected to be in place when the centre opens next spring. When it is fully open, Cotswold Designer Outlet is expected to create over 500 new jobs in the shops, as well as the operation of the centre.
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Function room now available to hire!
Fully private function room, own bar, dance floor, toilet facilities and outside courtyard
SOAK UP THE SUN IN OUR LARGE GARDEN AREA
DEERHURST FLOWER FESTIVAL
SATURDAY 24TH - MONDAY 26TH AUGUST at the Priory Church of St. Mary
The villagers of Deerhurst and Apperley warmly invite you to our biennial flower festival happening on the August Bank Holiday from Saturday 24th to Monday 26th inclusive from 10am until 5pm. This spectacular event takes place in one of England’s oldest and most delightful Saxon churches – The Priory Church of St. Mary, nestling by the River Severn in the village of Deerhurst. The historic church will be transformed with vibrant floral displays with this year’s theme of “The Big Read”.
This year we are aiming to be more sustainable with villagers hoping to grow many of their own flowers and use less oasis, with the biodegradable type being used when needed. We are sure it will be an exceptional display as always. The event provides a good day out, with refreshments served all day on the Priory lawns along with some local entertainment, craft and plant stalls etc. There will also be a BBQ and bar. Close by with free access is Odda’s Chapel where local artists will be exhibiting and selling their works. There is always the option for a pleasant walk by the river if you have enough time and energy left after enjoying all the
above activities.
This event brings the villagers of Apperley and Deerhurst together and provides essential funding for the upkeep of the churches. Please come and support us whilst enjoying a fun day out.
Further details e.g. how to find us at www. deerhurstflowerfestival. co.uk
BY THE RIVER
FRIDAY 23RD AUGUST - MONDAY 26TH AUGUST LIVE MUSIC ON TAP FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Enjoy food and drink on Lazy Days with us!
Open for food Wednesday to Saturday lunchtime and Evenings and Sunday lunchtime. Serving Sunday evenings and Mondays lunch and evening on the bank holidays. We have some availability in our riverside function room, camping available.
Forthampton GL19 4RE 01684 293224 By road from Tewkesbury take the A438 to Ledbury and turn off to Forthampton. At the duck pond turn left and follow the road to the end.
An
evening with Adele Parks M.B.E and Soph’s Book Club Tewkesbury
This month we were honoured to welcome Adele Parks M.B.E to our wonderful local book club.
Adele has had 24 bestsellers, sold over 5 million copies and has recently turned one of her books into a hit movie.
‘Both Of Us’ is available to watch now on Amazon Prime.
We had a fantastic evening talking about her latest book ‘First Wife’s Shadow’ which was released on July 4th.
If you love a psychological thriller then this is on for you reading list.
Adele talked to us about her phenomenal career and gave us an insight into her success. Her inspiration, imagination, unique and quirky writing habits which all contribute to her remaining one of Britain’s most loved authors.
It is always inspiring to have authors visit our book club and we’ve been incredibly lucky to have had some brilliant guests in the shirt time we’ve been running.
Adele’s visit has inspired myself and my members to pursue our hobbies and dreams of writing. She has also unknowingly opened
the doorway for support from other well know authors through her kindness and support both in person and on social media.
Adele’s visit has helped put Soph’s Book Club on the map.
Soph’s Book Club is always open to new members. We often have craft or social nights in addition to out monthly meetings and author events there is something for everyone and with such wonderful
members you’re guaranteed to have a good time and make some new friends.
I want to take this opportunity to thank the Gupshill Manor who host our book clubs and events and always accommodate my crazy and last minute plans.
Adele, thank you again for your visit and support.
Watch this space Tewkesbury, more exciting things are coming.
By Jacqueline Berrill.
m Adele Parks M.B.E
THE ROBIN, THE NEW RURAL TRANSPORT LINK
The Robin is your local, friendly bookable bus service. Here are the three easy ways to book your journey:
Book via the website or pay via the website or choose to pay the driver.
Book via the phone app (FREE download on Apple or Android) - pay via the app or choose to pay the driver.
Book over the phonecall The Robin call centre on 0345 263 8139 - pay the driver (cash or contactless). The call centre is open 8am - 4pm Monday to Friday.
Visit out contact page for details of how to get on touch and how you can stay up to date with The Robin news.
You search for your ideal journey, and book the option that suits you. It’s local and offers affordable fares, connecting places in rural locations.
WHAT’S ON at Three Counties Showground
m SUN 4TH AUGUST
NATIONAL GUNDOG ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW SOCIETY
m 6TH – 8TH AUGUST NATIONAL PONY SOCIETY SUMMER CHAMPIONSHIPS
m WED 7TH AUGUST UNITED RETRIEVER CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW
m SUN 11TH AUGUST NATIONAL WELSH PONY CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW
m 16TH – 18TH AUGUST THE WESTERN MOTORHOME & CAMPERVAN SHOW
Who knew that dogs do better than patients or doctors in detecting illnesses? Many lives have been saved by doggy pets and by trained Medical Detection Dogs [MDDs].
Cancers of skin, breast and prostate; Parkinsons; Addisons; malaria; diabetic changes; bacterial infections; viruses like Covid; the dogs can smell general and localized changes in your chemistry and alert you so you go for treatment. Severely allergic reactions can be prevented by a dog warning of say peanut particles in the air. MDDs can become assistance dogs to people at risk of collapse from maybe fainting, postural tachycardia or diabetes. Falling-injuries to such patients are hugely reduced, and lives are saved.
You can even register your own diagnostic pet after a year or so of accreditation: then the dog can wear the official MDD uniform coat, enabling the pet to go anywhere with you: a very precious freedom for many who were previously afraid to venture out at all. Our speaker Baiju McCubbins showed us some touching videos of real people saved by their invaluable dogs.
They are testing MDDs for reliability in detecting urine infections, but when testing in care homes, they do need to take a tolerant pattable partner dog, for the residents to coo over, whilst the working dog does its job.
All the dogs, selected for temperament from puppies or rescue, are trained to detect one particular disease each, with a potential accuracy of 94%. By comparison, or contrast, Covid lateral flow tests reach 70% accuracy. Imagine the dogs in an airport pointing their nose accusingly at the passengers who are flying in with their symptomless virus? There is international support for the MDD charity, which you can find online at www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk
DON’T PANIC!
The UK has around 3000 invasive species living within its shores, costing us around £4bn a year, writes Tim Hoskins.
Gardeners are responsible for introducing a large number of those species and we continue to accidentally import them, as we seek cheaper means of stocking our gardens and landscapes.
Despite the negative impact on our native flora and fauna, interestingly, ecosystems often adapt.
Existing predators and disease controls will eventually create a new balance but there will also be side effects and native species may be entirely lost during that process.
Some years ago there was a national scare concerning non-native ‘false widow’ spiders because they resembled and were similarly named to the deadly black widow.
There was widespread killing of them and two of our native spider species were caught in the crossfire and are now under serious threat.
Similar things are happening with our native hornets.
Hornets are a large wasp species, but their increased size does not
correspond with any increase in aggression.
They are generally calmer than their small cousins and their principle food source is actually other invertebrates.
Sadly these colourful giants get mistaken for the extremely harmful Asian Hornets, despite being easily identifiable.
They often get killed in panic and now an important member of our national ecosystem is critically endangered in parts of the UK.
Another garden friend that is killed unfairly is our humble ladybird.
There are over forty
species of ladybird in the UK. Hiding among them is a nasty species known as the harlequin which takes many forms and is distinguishable only by its orange legs.
Prevention is better than cure. We’re busy making a pickle of our natural environment, so it’s absolutely our responsibility to manage it properly.
Maybe we just don’t need to kill everything, in order to save it?
Tim Hoskins
Tim Hoskins
Hornet
the sign on Friday 17th May 2024, watched by several residents and historians including Steve Pocock and Martin Raven, shown here.
The protected area, long known
We are very grateful for the financial backing of the HSAZ, inspired by Cllr. Cate Cody and the designers commissioned by Georgia Smith, the project coordinator of the Borough Council.
Learning from research by the Battlefield Society, our members are probably disappointed that it is not accurately named - more of a myth with no archaeological support.
The Queen was in the area briefly for her defeat at the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, but the camp was more likely a moated farmstead which had been deserted before the battle. It did indeed take place in the Perry Hill area, before the routed Lancastrians fled towards Lower Lode via the 'Bloody Meadow' and towards the hoped-
for sanctuary of the Abbey.
The leaders, however, were handed over to the King to be executed on the morrow - but, despite the loss of life, they were treated quite chivalrously by being allowed to be buried in hallowed ground in the Abbey.
Queen Margaret managed to escape but was captured and later ransomed to the King of France, under whose care she died in poverty aged 52.
We hope residents will appreciate that history matters as they are now on the tourist map and that the doomed, but historic elms, may be replaced by more trees for a new generation of children to enjoy a 'wonderful childhood'.
The earliest photo we have of the area with its elms (now deceased) from 1904 (Cheltenham Graphic). The new information board in detail
A detailed history can be read along with the street names, linked
We thank James Baker of PPNP for his unfailing support.
Cllr. Cate Cody unveils
Test your powers of recall with six of the best questions in this month’s Tewkesbur y Direct Pub Quiz.
1: Europe’s tallest building, the 1516 ft tall Lakhta Center, is located in which city?
2: Which horse won the Cheltenham Gold Cup at Festival in March 2024?
SAT 3rd AUGUST: The Music of Lord of the Rings - a tribute to Howard Shore. Cheltenham Town Hall. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
THURSDAY 1st-
SUNDAY 4th AUGUST: App-Fest Gloucestershire, including The Boomtown Rats, Feeder, Scouting for Girls, Cast, Callum Beattie, Nik Kershaw, Katrina, Chesney Hawkes and Rebecca Ferguson. Hillworth Farm, Longdon GL20 6AX app-fest.co.uk
3: One By One, Wasting Light, Sonic Highways and Medicine At Midnight are albums by which band?
4: Buster Merryfield played Uncle Albert in which BBC TV comedy series?
5: What is the capacity of Milan Cathedral? a) 400; b) 4,000 or c) 40,000?
WED 14th AUGUST:
Open Celtic Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
SUN 18th AUGUST: Curved Air, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk
THURSDAY 22ndSUNDAY 25th AUGUST:
Sunshine Festival with headliners David Essex, Jason Donovan, Right Said Fred, Tony Christie, Upton-upon-Severn. uptonfestival.co.uk
6: Where is the most easterly point in the British Isles? (Give yourself half a point if you can only name the county)
Church Street, Bredon. foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
SAT 7th SEPT: Steve Ashley with support from Mike Weaver, The Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury GL20. Doors Open 7.15pm. www.wegottickets.com/ event/605731
SAT 7th SEPT: The South, Stroud Sub Rooms. subrooms.co.uk
Cheltenham GL50 1HQ everymantheatre.org.uk
WED 18th SEPT: The Dragon Folk Club with Charlie Williams and resident performers The Tything, Worcester WR1 1JT 7.30pm start.
THURSDAY 8thSUNDAY 11th AUGUST: Lakefest Music Festival Highlights include The Stranglers, Rudimental, Black Grape, Jake Bugg, The Libertines, Olly Murs and Kosheen. Eastnor Castle, Ledbury. Tickets lakefest.co.uk
SAT 17th AUG: The Julie July Band, Number8 Arts, Pershore www.number8.org
SAT 25th AUGUST: Special Kinda Madness, Gloucester Guildhall. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
WED 28th AUGUST:
Open Mixed Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
TUES 3rd SEPT: Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), Roses Theatre. rosestheatre.org
WED 4th SEPT: Live Jazz Night, Fox & Hounds,
WED 11th SEPT: Open Celtic Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
SUN 15th SEPT: Seth Lakeman, Stroud Sub Rooms. subrooms.co.uk
MON 16th SEPT: Jazz in The Studio Everyman Theatre,
SAT 28th SEPT: Very Santana The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org
SUN 29th SEPT: Cara Dillon, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org
A
run Italian Restaurant
Authentic Bangladeshi Food
Professional and qualified dog groomers based alongside Crescent Vets, 31 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5RY. Working on a 1:1 basis. Call 07874 360267 or email peachperfectdoggrooming@gmail.com
Take us up on our special summer offer - a bag of mixed bird seed for just £1.00 this month!
Plus we stock bulk bags of premium wild robin and songbird food, fat ball, suet balls, feeders and more Only £1.00 offer until 31.08.24
Animals Only, Unit B, The Northway Centre Northway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8TW 01684 273050
www.animalsonly.co.uk plenty of free parking OFFERS IN STORE AND ON OUR NEW WEBSITE
Website www.njwpayrollsolutions.co.uk
Peach Perfect Dog grooming opens for business in Tewkesbury town centre
For those dog owners who want their pets to look and feel great, Maisie Bevan offers great dog grooming and trimming services at Peach Perfect, a new salon now open in Tewkesbury.
Peach Perfect is at the rear of the Crescent Veterinary Practice, 31 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5RY.
Maisie, a distinguished certified professional groomer with over five years experience, can perform full grooms on all breeds of dog, including wool coats, tidy-ups and nail trims.
Using Dog Kind, a range of natural products, Maisie ensures a groom will be just Peach Perfectfor both dogs and owners.
Check out the portfolio of photos on Peach Perfect’s Facebook page to see some amazing makeovers.
If you would like to give your dog a treat call 07874 360267, or for more information please email peachperfectdoggrooming@gmail.com
WESTONBIRT SCHOOL, TETBURY
Sunday 4th August , 11am-4pm. Formal Victorian gardens, walled Italian garden, rustic walks, lake, grotto, statuary and grounds of 28 acres. Refreshments available. GL8 8QG. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
HIGHNAM COURT, GLOUCESTER
Sunday 4th August , 11am-5pm. 40 acres of landscaped grounds including an oriental garden, knot gardens, kitchen gardens, lake and orangery. GL2 8DP. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
RICHMOND VILLAGES, PAINSWICK
Thursday 8th August, 9am-3.30pm. Four acre retirement village with formal lawns, wildflower meadow, varied mix of herbaceous borders and shrubs.GL6 6UL.findagarden.ngs.org.uk
KIFTSGATE COURT, CHIPPING CAMPDEN
Monday 12th August 12pm-6pm. May unusual plants and shrubs, magnificent situation and views. Old fashioned roses including the largest species in the UK. Pre-booking advisable. Refreshments available. www.kiftsgate.co.uk
CALMSDEN MANOR, CIRENCESTER
Monday 26th August, 2.30pm-6.30pm. Herbaceous borders, small arboretum, wild flower and grass meadows, walled garden. Home-made teas. GL7 5ET. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
GARDENS OPEN National Garden Scheme
Before After Maisie Bevan with another satisfied customer
Find us on Facebook
UPCOMING SPEAKER NEWS
Meetings held on the 2nd Monday of each month in the Baptist Church Hall, Tewkesbury GL20 5DR.
Monday 12th August, 10.30am - 12.00pm
BETH ANDREWS from Tewkesbury Nature Reserve asks us to “ DO ONE THING FOR NATURE”
Monday 9th September, 10.30am - 12pm
ASHLEY JONES will tell us the history of the DICKIN MEDAL (the animal VC)
Winchcombe Country Show
BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 26TH AUGUST
The Winchcombe Country Show is an annual celebration of local talent, charities, businesses and groups and each year we donate our profits to support local good causes.
In addition to the stall holders and competitions, the showground offers a variety of food, drink and entertainment for all ages. The main ring features activities, acts and displays throughout the afternoon including the popular dog show, with entry open to all breeds of dog.
Kids go free!
Come bye dog and geese display, juggling mark, Punch and Judy, music and entertainment all day, classic vehicles, indoor and outdoor stalls, dog show and competition hall.
Free activities include: Inflatable Clown Slide, Inflatable Activity Course and Have a go Juggling.
For more information visit winchcombeshow.org.uk
WEEKLY MONDAYS 5PM – VIEWING 3PM LOTS OF HAPPY SELLERS LOTS OF HAPPY BUYERS
Think of the environment, reuse, is the accepted, best method to recycle.
at Winchcombe School
General Dentistry
Detection of oral problems early with regular private examinations
Teeth Straightening
Invisalign is a clear alternative to braces, comfortable, removable and easy to wear
Tooth Whitening
A safe way to brighten the natural colour of your teeth
Hygiene Appointments
Remove plaque and calculus from behind the gum line and teeth
Probus Club tries fly fishing
One of the main aims of Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club is to help retired professionals and businessmen stimulate their retirement. With our weekly talks from a huge selection of speakers, members find that even at their mature age, they are learning something new every week.
Our trip to the Bigwell Fishery near Monmouth for the Fly-fishing experience meant that for several members who had never tried fly fishing (including myself) it was an opportunity to try something new that we had never considered doing before.
The location at Bigwell is in a beautiful setting with three lakes crammed full of fish and we were blessed with a lovely sunny day to try out a new skill. The day began with instruction on how to cast the hook with the fly attached to reach further and further out into the lake, following which we established a number of positions on the banks of the lakes and tried our luck.
It has to be said that a number of members who went on this visit were already adept at fly-fishing and began to land some excellent examples of rainbow trout, but as a complete novice, I was not so successful and just as I was beginning to think that my patience would run out, I had a bite on my line. Seconds later, the fish escaped.
It was the “one that got away!”
A couple of weeks later back at Bredon Village Hall, we had a very interesting talk by Robert Arley, one of the
about the organisational efforts required to manage the logistics of up to 1500 visitors who have to queue sometimes for hours to present their treasured antique ob-
producers of BBC’s Antiques Roadshow who has worked on the programme for many years. Robert described in detail what goes on behind the scenes of this very popular TV programme and he spoke eloquently
jects d’art to be assessed by the show’s experts, sometimes being rather disappointed to learn that they were not as valuable as they expected.
By
Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club
Kemerton Open Gardens Shine!
Blessed with perfect weather, Kemerton’s Open Garden event was a resounding success! Close to one thousand visitors turned up to enjoy 15 stunning gardens on a beautiful sunny day in June.
Gardens ranged in size from the very grand to the very small, but every one of them was beautifully presented and much commented on by visitors. And everyone appreciated the general air of friendliness and welcome they received throughout the village!
Other attractions included cakes and refreshments served at the newly refurbished Village Hall, Tombola, ice creams and childrens’
games at Old Manor, bar and music at Upper Court and Pimms at Chapel House. The village church of St Nicholas showed off some wonderful flower displays and burgers were provided at The Crown.
The event raised in the region of £10,000 and the profits will enable Kemerton Village
Hall committee to invest in an up-todate user-friendly website to help promote the village hall and attract new bookings to this delightful venue which lends itself for hosting a wide range of activities and events. All enquiries to kemerton.org.uk
Professional stress free service with a specialist bathroom installer • Modern & Traditional bathroom suites • Shower installations
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SEVERN UNIT MVS RECEIVES
DONATION AT TBW PRESENTATION
EVENING
Tewkesbury based
Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service was delighted to be awarded a donation from Tewkesbury Big Weekend at the recent presentation evening held at the home of TBW organiser Carol Crilly.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “We really are so grateful to the committee of TBW for donating some money to us which will be of great use to the Unit.”
Donations were also given out to Macmillan Cancer Support, Boy’s Brigade and other local charities in the Tewkesbury area.
m TBW River Activities Organiser Paul Cronin presenting Nic Price from Severn Unit MVS with a cheque for unit funds
Stimulate Your Retirement At Tewkesbury & Bredon Hill Probus Club
Probus Club offers retired and semi-retired professional and business men the opportunity to enrich retirement by joining like-minded people for congenial conversation, sharing experiences, listening to a wide variety of interesting speakers and occasional visits to places of interest.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN AUGUST:
6 Aug – Tewkesbury Nature Reserve (with Beth Andrews)
13 Aug – Aviation after WW2 (with Sally Ferrers)
20 Aug – Albania: the land that time forgot (with John Butterworth)
27 Aug – No meeting (Bank holiday)
Meetings are held at 10.15 a.m. in Bredon Village Hall. Every interested person will receive a very warm welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Steve Tucker on 07803 907243 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/
BREDON CRICKET CLUB CHARITY
DAY RAISES OVER £2,500
The last few weeks have been extremely busy at Bredon Cricket Club with a highly successful golf day held at Puckrup Hall which raised over £2,500 for the James Hopkins Trust. The photograph shows the winning team, from left to right Scott Jameson, Dave Tomkotowicz and Dodge Antonelli. Thanks to all those who entered a team and took part.
Our new ladies team continues to thrive, and they took part in a tournament at New Road, Worcester on the 30th of June. They won two out of the three games they participated in. We are looking for further fixtures in the weeks ahead and even more success.
Our Allstars and Dynamo’s cricket on a Friday evening has been so successful that we extended the sessions until the end of July.
We will be running a cricket coaching camp on 14th, 15th and 16th August for boys and girls aged between 6-15 and run by qualified coaches from Worcester County Cricket Club. This will take place at our home ground.
For details, please visit our web site or email Neil at neil@hallonline.co.uk.
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 Golf Day Winners Scott Jameson, Dave Tomkotowicz and Dodge Antonelli.
Offshore Trip for Severn Unit MVS
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service had a most successful offshore trip down the Severn Estuary to Portishead this year. Their own training vessel “Minerva” was accompanied by four other private boats from Severn Unit all crewed by MVS members and another boat joined us crewed by Bristol Unit members.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “The flotilla of boats all gathered outside Sharpness Lock and we all proceeded together under the Severn Bridges to Portishead where we completely filled the large sea lock! During the rest of the week Severn Unit members had the opportunity to take some of their private boats to Cardiff and Swansea and gained valuable boat handling and navigation training in a different area despite the inclement weather and rough seas at times and we thank our Head of Seamanship Tim Huckvale for organising the trip.”
m Severn and Bristol Unit boats filled up Portishead Lock
home grown bedding plants, hanging baskets & planted containers
Rich Whincup has been selected to take on this role following an interview process and live auditions, the
A local rugby coach and a lecturer at Hartpury University, Rich will learn the ropes from
Mike Kean-Price who has been Town Crier for over 25 years. New livery will need
to be made specifically for Rich and this is underway with a mid-term fitting ensuring it is ready for the handover. His first official event will be at the Mop Fair in October when Mike will handover to Rich.
this has
Mike Kean-Price supported the panel of judges, stating ‘I fully endorse the candidate who has been selected. As one of the interviewing Councillors said, Rich is very approachable and that’s what we were looking for. We are very fortunate to have obtained his services’.
since
By Town Clerk, Debbie Hill.
m Mike Kean-Price
m The new Town Crier, Rich Whincup
CONSULT THE EXPERTS
To advertise in this section please call 01242 621346 or send an email to tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com or visit our website for more information www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk
BANK HOLIDAY FUN
IN TWYNING
A weekend of fun for all the family is planned in the village of Twyning over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.
Festivities kick off with a Barn Dance on Saturday 24th, with music from the ‘Organ Grinders’ in a marquee on the village green from 7.30pm.
On Sunday 25th at 10am the church and chapel will hold a service in the marquee, followed by the Twyning Motor Show with classic cars and bikes on display. Bacon baps wil be served for breakfast too.
Bank Holiday Monday brings the car boot sale and fete, taking pace from 1pm-4pm. There will be stalls, side shows, a raffle, barbecue, bar and afternoon teas. Arena events include a dog show, and sporting contests including the tug-of-war and egg throwing.
Scarecrows will be appearing around the village, and this year’s competition is for the best-kept homegrown planter. Monet raised goes to the children’s play area and village sports facilities.
of
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crown reduction, crown lift, pruning, site clearance
Stump grinding (pedestrian access - machine is small enough to fit through regular pedestrian gate)
Hedge work - trimming, reduction, removal Fencing installed
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WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS
RAMBLING AROUND with Jack B. Walker
GLENFALL AND HAM
This month’s ramble skirts the edge of the Cotswolds above Charlton Kings - on the outskirts of Cheltenham - and affords some excellent views to the west, writes Jack B. Walker.
The route begins from the car park off London Road (A40) at Six Ways. Parking is free here for up to four hours, and access is via a shared drive with the Preparatory School.
Leave the car park by the surgery and pharmacy, and turn left along London Road. At the Six Ways Junction (1) turn left into Greenway Lane.
Pass by the school grounds and access to Battledown Estate on the left, and after the last house on the right look for the mesh gate into the allotments (2) - not the lane which leads to Ryeworth Road.
Cross the allotments by the public right of way, and go down the bank to exit via a metal gate (please shut this behind you). Turn left along a footpath (3) at the edge of a coppice, with the Ham Brook below to your right.
Keep following the waymarked path, and at the point where two marker posts are visible ahead, take the left hand path to skirt the edge of a wood. You will pass through a few kissing gates on this section, and over a footbridge (4) on what is part of the Cheltenham Circular
Footpath.
Cross over a stile on to Mill Lane (5) and turn left. After a short distance along the road, go over the stile (left) into a field and walk diagonally across it to reach a triangle of grass with a convenient bench! (6)
Ahead of you now are the covered Hewletts Reservoirs, which were built in the 1820s to serve the growing town of Cheltenham. Water was originally collected from the many springs which rise on the hills here. Two of the four reservoirs are still in use today.
Walk on ahead, and at the small rough car park look for a good broad track on the right (7) and follow it up the side of Aggs Hill. You will eventually come to a small reservoir on your right, and shortly after this the track ends. Walk ahead into the field, (8) towards Northfield Farm (pictured above)
Please support Tewkesbury’s traders and retailers to ensure a bright future for our wonderful town
DISTANCE: Approx 3.5 miles. One moderate climb, one steep descent. Some paths can be muddy.
PARKING: Car Park off London Road, Six Ways (free for four hours). Charlton Kings is on several bus routes from Cheltenham Town Centre
REFRESHMENTS: excellent choice of cafés, pubs, shops and bars on London Road, Six Ways MAP: Map above is not to scale. OS Explorer Map 179 (Gloucester, Cheltenham and Stroud) or the OS Map App for mobile phones are recommended.
Cross over the stile, then another one on the right to head down a steep bank, to cross a bridge over the Ham Brook. (9). Bear right and then left, following the yellow arrows, keeping the field boundaries to your left.
Eventually you will see the top of a white property on the right. This is Grade II listed Glenfall House, which was built 1799-1800 and has historic gardens, including the waterfall (not visible) from which it takes its name. It has been a private residence, convent, wedding venue and conference centre - and is currently being restored.
Continue down the bank and go through into the garden to the left of Glenfall Farm, emerging on to a lane (10)
Turn right and walk down the lane to reach another triangle of grass (with another handy bench), in the delightful little settlement of Ham.
Cross over into Ham Lane, with a house on your right, and as the
lane bears left, take the footpath in front of some cottages (11) which brings you out into Ham Square. Emerge from the lane next to the half timbered cottage (pictured below) and turn right along the road.
Carry along this road, and after passing some modern houses, turn right into Ryeworth Road (12). Walk down the hill until your reach the allotments again at point (3). Retrace your steps back to the car park. An alternative route is to carry on along Ryeworth Road, which will bring you back to Six Ways.
In Cudnall Street, the old route to London parallel to the current A40, there are two properties of interest, well worth a look. Oliver Cromwell is said to have slept in Elborough Cottage, and Lewis Carroll was a frequent visitor to nearby Hetton Lawn - home of the Liddell family. The looking glass, which features in the ‘Alice’ stories, still hangs in the hallway.
View to Charlton Kings, from the track to Northfield
Pretty half timbered cottage in Ham
Northfield Farm
UTILITA ARENA, BIRMINGHAM
7 Aug: Justin Timberlake
9 Aug: Peter Kay 18 Aug: Linkin Park www.utilitaarenaham. co.uk
NEC BIRMINGHAM
Until 25 Aug: Titanic Exhibition 1 Aug-1 Sept:
Beyond Van Gogh www.thenec.co.uk
CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL
6 Aug: Cillian O’Connor My Magic World 7 Sept: James Bond Concert Spectacular 14 Sept: Tubular Bells cheltenhamtownhall. org.uk
enquiries@twyninggarage.co.uk
EVERYMAN, CHELTENHAM 2-3 Aug: London City Ballet 5-10 Aug: Jesus Christ, Superstar everymantheatre.org.uk
PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM 13-27 Aug: Swing From Paris cheltplayhouse.org.uk
THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD 31 Aug: Legally Blonde JR 3-7 Sept: Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard www.courtyard.org.uk
MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY 5 Sept: The Merry Wives of Windsor themarkettheatre.com
MALVERN THEATRES 6-9 Aug: Euripedes Medea 17 Aug: Grimethorpe Colliery Band 20-24 Aug: Fame, The Musical 28-31 Aug: Dial M for Mayhem! malvern-theatres.co.uk
RSC STRATFORD Until 7 September: The Merry Wives of Windsor www.rsc.org.uk
SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER 6-10 Aug: The Addams Family worcestertheatres.co.uk
