Tewkesbury Direct Magazine December 2021

Tewkes Direct December 2021 1-28_Tewkes Direct April 1-22 24/11/2021 10:45 Page 1

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ALL SET FOR A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS Thousands of people turned out to witness Father Christmas light up the town on Sunday 21st November.

The new layout which spread the event into parts of Barton Street and Church Street was a hit, as people gathered in front of the stage near the Cross to watch the set list of acts ranging from Ukulele band Friends Ukenited, The Tewkesbury pub singers, The Roses Theatre community choir, Passion Academy of Dance and the Tewkesbury town training band.

These all entertained the passers by who enjoyed their Christmas shopping.

Tewkesbury Christmas Lights is organised by a small committee of volunteers, who help raise funds and run the event each year.

One of the organisers, Jack Boskett was delighted with the outcome. Jack said: “It was a big gamble as to whether this expansion of the market would be

HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE TEWKESBURY REJUVENATION INITIATIVE

Tewkesbury’s big switch on (Photos: Jack Boskett)

well received by the people of Tewkesbury.

“We were worried that the road closure in the town centre would cause problems, but it was very well managed all round.”

"We have received so many positive comments

about the new format and about how well the day went.

“The businesses that opened did a roaring trade and it brought in a lot of people to shop in the town centre.

“It looks like we have started something new and hope to continue the theme in 2022.

"The Christmas Lights are funded completely by the kind people and businesses of Tewkesbury each year, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to them all.”

If you would like to help the event take place again next year, please visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/tewkesburychristmaslights2021

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BOOK OF THE MONTH with Alison’s Bookshop & Music Room Afterlives www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

Annie’s Chauffeur Services & Bespoke Tours Pre-booked Private Transfers, Tours Tailored to Individual requirements

Contact: 07815 695 970 01684 298533 Visit Annie's at www.annieschauffeur.com or email anniestockman1@gmail.com.

Please note we are not a taxi service.

• Tours of Tewkesbury, The Cotswolds, The Wye Valley, The Malverns and Surrounding Areas • Contract Driving • Events • Personal Assistance

by Abdulrazak Gurnah Paperback £8.99 Originally it was the setting of this novel of East Africa, under the influence of German colonialism, that tempted me to read this book by an established author, and I recall, many years ago, favourably reading his earlier work "Paradise". Strangely my choice of this author was endorsed in October with him being awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature.

We meet the main characters, Ilyas, who returns to the seaside town of his childhood after years away working on a German owned coffee plantation, where at least he received some education. He settles in, makes friends and discovers his younger sister, Afiya, who he rescues from his cruel uncle and brings back to the town to live with him. Then as WW1 breaks out he volunteers to join the German Askari Schutztruppe, returning his sister, unawares, to ever more hardship. Luckily during his time in the town he has befriended Khalifa, and after a plea for help Khalifa brings Afiya back to live with him and his wife Asha.

The parts of the story that are located in this nameless coastal town follow the lives of Khalifa, and Asha, and Afiya as she grows up.

Also of Kahlifa's boss Biashara, Asha's uncle, but when he dies, Kahlifa ends up working for his son, a less enjoyable experience. Their lives, and experiences of work are well textured.

Into this setting eventually we meet Hamza another Askari volunteer, and his back story very clearly identifies the cruelties the Germans imposed within their colonies. There is an absorbing section of this novel where we follow

Hamza through military training, his placement as an officer's servant who is determined to teach him German; their relationship, and the cruelty of other officers towards the troops.

Hamza meets good people during his hard years of service, and these lead him eventually to settle beside the sea, and to enter a strong friendship with Khalifa and his family.

In many respects Hamza is the fullest character within this cast, really none have an easy life and we follow them through the decades even witnessing from a distance the Italian invasion of Ethiopia so eloquently recounted by Maaza Mengiste in her novel "The Shadow King" [please see separate review on-line].

Gurnah provides us with a long look through this window into East African 20th century history as those regions escape from colonial restrictions and find their feet of Independence, all narrated to provide a satisfying read. Historically an interesting and fulfilling novel, but greatly enhanced by a really good storyline told over the decades; very readable.

Selected by: Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury

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LOST CAUSES: HOG COUNTY COUNTRY Just as the nights get kinda’ cold, and Christmas will soon seem like a distant memory, Lee Martin and The Lakefest team have decided to create something really special for local music lovers.

Lost Causes: Hog County Country will be a brandnew Indie, Americana, Alt-Country event taking place on Saturday 26th February at Croft Farm Water Park, Bredon’s Hard-wick.

Headline artists are the legendary John Power - who was frontman of the 90s Indie band Cast (Walkaway) and was bass player and backing vocalist for The La’s (There She Goes) until 1991.

Liam Gallagher, Evan Dando and Gary Crowley’s new favourite band Alex Lipinski & The Crown Electric, who

will be launching their incredible new album ‘For Everything Under The Sun’ at Hog County Country top the bill too.

Also on the line-up are country-blue singer songwriter and UK Americana artist of the year Rob Vincent, Matt Owens (from Noah & the Whale), Kate Stapley, folk-rock duo Native Harrow and special guests yet to be announced.

Early bird tickets are available now -limited to a maximum of 300, so when they are gone, they are gone! https://ww2.theticket-

sellers.co.uk/buy-tickets/lost-causes-hogc o u n t y - c o u n try/10052828 The event will take place in a beautiful and

cosy club house overlooking Croft Farm’s lake. A choice of overnight accommodation, to suit all budgets is available at Lakeside

Luxury Lodges and Camping Pods (website croftfarmwaterpark.com) Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so check the event out ASAP!

Wishing you a

Happy Christmas and a huge thank you to my customers for all of your support during 2021

John Power

Unit 8 AlexandraWay, Ashchurch Business Centre,Tewkesbury GL20 8NB

Branches at • Tewkesbury • Cheltenham • Gloucester • Cirencester We keep our promises

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Bright future for Solar2Go Starting a new company during the Covid pandemic hardly sounds like a bright idea, but for Sean Gunston and his two new business partners it has worked out better than they had hoped.

Local entrepreneur Sean finally took the plunge in 2020, after being made redundant from his job of over 13 years in the solar industry.

He realized that the demand for solar power, power systems and solar security lighting was a sector where growth would be dependent on the supply of reliable working solar products.

“We all know how frustrating many solar security/garden lights can be, said Sean.

“Our aim at SolarGo2 is to banish this perception and supply quality products which outshine the competition and provide years of satisfaction for customers.

“Most of our lights have a Lumen output (amount of light emitted), more than five times the average solar light and have advanced technology which means they will continue to work throughout the dull UK winter months.”

The company has recently moved into the leisure solar panel industry as well, selling a range of quality rigid and semi-flexible panels for caravans, motorhomes, boats etc.

“These products can

We offer a full range of maintenance and repair services, catering for all makes and models at competitive rates.

Peter Nickson, Kevin Booth and Sean Gunston also be used for small off -grid systems like stables or workshops,” Sean added.

Both Sean and business partner Kevin Booth have lived in Tewkesbury most of their lives, bringing up their families and actively engaging with the local community.

Third partner Peter Nickson is a great friend and work colleague, originally from South Africa, now living in Blackpool (a town that is familiar with lights and illumination!) with his young family.

All three of them are interested in building up a company which is genuine, reliable, friendly, approachable - and fun!

They already have a number of retail and trade customers, but would love to work with many more local businesses and individuals.

For further information about the products available see the website www.solargo2.com, call 01684 607002 or email contact@solargo2.

You can see a number of their lights on display at The Handyman Centre in Tewkesbury.

Dedicated to excellence in customer service and reliability, our work is carried out to the highest standards.

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• Aluminium and PVCu windows and doors in a wide range of styles and colours • Sliding doors • Bi-fold doors • Composite doors • Secondary glazing • Display cabinets • Sash and casement windows • Flat roof lights and lanterns Clearway Doors & Windows, Manor Park Business Centre, MacKenzie Way, Cheltenham GL51 9TX Showroom open by prior appointment. Call to book.

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01242 513322 TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 5

Help to make Christmas, really special for others, this year Suppliers of the �inest British meats to the retail and catering trade.

Wishing our customers a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. Thank you for your continued custom. Kevin and the team.

Now taking orders for Christmas • Local Turkey • Cockerels • Geese • Gammon Joints • Beef • Lamb • Pork • Sausage Meat

…and don’t forget your ‘Pigs in Blankets’

Gift vouchers now available

The Salvation Army Christmas Present Appeal 2021 has started. We are asking for gift donations for people of all ages, whether it’s a young child or an older person.

Myself and my team will gratefully accept new unwrapped gifts at the charity shop at 37 High Street Tewkesbury until mid December.

These gifts are then distributed to families in our local area, who need a little help to make their Christmas special. We are also accepting in date food donations for the distribution of Christmas food parcels at the same time.

These appeals have been very successful in previous years, we have even had large businesses holding gift donation days on our behalf where they then donate their gifts to us. These gifts have proved invaluable to us and we are always amazed and extremely

Shop Manager, Rachael Pinchin, now accepting gifts

grateful to everyone who donates to these appeals.

If you would like to contribute to either or both of these appeals, please bring your do-

nations to the shop.

We are open MondaySaturday 10am-4pm, you will find the donation bin by the till.

By Rachael Pinchin Shop Manager

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

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WHAT’S GREEN ONTHE LOCAL SCENE with Cate Cody

Global Day of Action for Climate Justice Around 500 COP26 awareness events took place worldwide on Saturday 6th November and Tewkesbury was one of 70 locations in the UK, writes Cate Cody.

FINALLY BACK AGAIN! CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOPS Tuesday 7 December, 6.30-9pm, Watson Hall, Tewkesbury Sunday 12 December, 2-4pm, Watson Hall, Tewkesbury £50 inc. all materials, complimentary fizz and mince pies Come and have a wonderful experience creating your own wreath for Christmas!

It was a really good turnout with lots of adults, children, babies and Tewkesbury Friends of the Earth. We had a peaceful rally around the town which received a lot of support from shopkeepers and assistants and a few passers by who joined in too.

Pictured here are some of those who took part, including a woman who cycled from Newent to join us.

We also took lots with us in spirit who wrote to say they would have liked to have attended as well.

TEWKESBURY REPAIR CAFÉ - is back and running monthly.

Dates confirmed so far are Saturday11th December, Saturday 8th January, Saturday 19th February, Saturday 19th March and Saturday 16th April 2022 The Repair Café will be open on these dates from 2pm until 5pm at the Baptist Church Hall

in Station Road. Bring things that need fixing (toys, electronics, furniture, electrical items, gadgets, plus clothes / sewing that need mending / altering etc etc) and tools that need sharpening.

PRIOR’S PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD PROJECT - PPNP Pantry is a tailored grocery shopping service with a membership £3.50 per week.

Conditions apply.

PPNP supports local families/ households in saving money whilst promoting the rewards of giving to their local community charity Creative workshops available. Bird boxes,planters and handmade crafts for sale from the PPNP Sheds project.

Contact info@ppnp.co. uk 01684 290069 priorsparkneighbourhoodproject.co.uk For more What’s Green please see page 32

Book now to secure your place on this really popular event Call us on 01684 276769 or book online www.bluebellwoodflorist.com

Beautiful floral arrangements for all occasions, plants and gifts

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As well as beautiful and unusual fashions at Pretty Special, you will always find gorgeous silver jewellery set with semi precious stones, funky and practical bags, scarves in a myriad of colours, bamboo socks and lots of fabulous gift ideas at really affordable prices!

Gift vouchers also available.

93 Church Street Tewkesbury 01684 299160

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for telephone orders please call us on 01684 276769 Bluebell Wood Florist, 67a Barton Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5PX Town centre shop open Mon-Fri 9am-3pm, Sat 9am-12noon Online shop open 24 hrs 8 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 5,12 and 19 Dec 11am-4pm Online store open 24 hours at

www.prettyspecialtewkesbury.co.uk or find us on Facebook Pretty Special Tewkesbury

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Our wish to you this Christmas time All of the team at Body2Soul would like to thank all customers for their support during 2021 and wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year

Festive Season Opening Hours: Mon 20th - 9:30am-3pm Tues 21st - Thurs 23rd 9am-9pm Christmas Eve - Tues 28th closed Wed 29th - 9am-5pm Thurs 30th - 9am-9pm New Years Eve - 9am-5pm New Years Day - Mon 3rd Jan closed Tues 4th Jan - return to normal

December Special Offers Christmas Pamper Package • Three minute Sunbed • Full Body Scrub • Full 1 hour Facial with a Renu Collagen Eye Treatment • Full Body Hydration Treatment • Express Manicure & Express Pedicure

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www.body2soul.co.uk - enquiries@body2soul.co.uk TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 9

CELEBRATION OF 30 YEARS IN TEWKESBURY On 8 November over 180 people attended Tewkesbury and District u3a’s annual Open Day and a combined celebration of 30 years since its start. The u3a has the motto “learn, laugh, live” and is for those no longer in full-time employment who wish to enjoy life.

The event at the Town Hall included displays of Groups activities, existing members were able to renew their membership and almost 30 new members joined. At noon there was a ceremo-

ny with drinks and cakes. The Town Mayor, Councillor Joanne Raywood, attended the celebration, as did some early members including Roxy Base.

Unfortunately, Founder member, Brenda

Perkins, was unable to attend but all attending were grateful to those original members for forming the local organisation.

At the original meeting at the Parish Hall in September

GREAT GIFT IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS • • • • • • • • •

Christmas trees, holly wreaths & tree stands Christmas decorations, lights & cards Seasonal houseplants & amaryllis Bowl arrangements & amaryllis Colourful bowl arrangements Planted containers & baskets Trees, shrubs & bedding plants Soft fruit & bare root hedging plants Bird tables, specialist feed & feeders

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1991 almost 100 people turned up. Many joined on the day, with membership rising to about 200 members the next year and to 500 by 1998. Current membership is 630 and new recruits are welcome. As the name implies, members come from all around the area, not just Tewkesbury.

Tewkesbury u3a has almost 40 Groups covering art, languages, computers, photography, garden visits, needlecraft, discussions, book reading and family history, plus Egyptian, Greek and Roman history. Other groups play bridge, mah jong, scrabble and the slightly more physical activities of petanque, short mat bowls, kurling (not on ice), table tennis, strolls and

Roxy Base and Town Mayor, Councillor Joanne Raywood, cutting the cake, with Chairperson for u3a Tewkesbury & District, Ian Barber, looking on.

walking. If you want more details contact 01684 325013 or info@tewkwsburyu3a. org.uk. Better still, look at the website www.u3asites.org.uk/ tewkesbury/home.

The u3a is a national organisation,

with separate u3as throughout the UK, each slightly different.

All encourage those in their third age (beyond childhood and full-time employment or child-minding responsibilities) to enjoy life whilst having fun in good company and learning something new. The organisation relies on members to use their skills, knowledge and experience to selfhelp other members to learn and practice new things. Give it a try, who knows what the future might bring.

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Tewkesbury Rejuvenation Initiative Last month’s Tewkesbury Direct was full of articles about polishing our towns appearance and image. A wonderful attitude by all those who have a pride in our beautiful town. Especial thanks to 3rd Cubs who have created dog poop bag dispensers out of old milk cartons and attached them to numerous lamp posts about the town. A great initiative by our youngest residents. Another group have spontaneously cleaned up the areas around Tewkesbury’s welcome signage on the A38, whilst another has repaired public footpaths along the Carrant.

Many of you will have seen the High Street Heritage Action Zone initiative. Plans to uplift shop fronts is underway. If you’ve not seen the HSHAZ link do go to www.tewkesb u r y. g o v. u k / h s h a z and click on improvements to shop fronts.

Please make your inputs to the HSHAZ team or TRI. We are beginning work with TBC on funded projects for our youth. Meantime, off their own bat, some young people have created their own BMX style track in a waste woodland area using natural resources and much initiative.

Well done.

Last call please: To get your 2022 Town events promulgated in January by TRI by emailing tewkesburytri@gmail.com.

We are also running an Open Forum in the Town Hall on Thursday 9th December at 1830. We will detail our plans but most importantly it’s an opportunity for YOU to come along, show your commitment and to give us your ideas or concerns.

3rd Cubs - poop bag dispensers

Excitingly, first discussion have been conducted to reinstate a River Regatta in the

town, first started in 1864 until the 1960’s.

The proposed dates are 24/25 September 2022. More at the

Tewkesbury’s River Regatta

Public Footpath - Repaired by volunteers

Open Forum and next month’s TD. New Outlet Park.

Close dialogue has taken place recently regarding the development of the Outlet centre. Infrastructure funds will be given to TBC to manage the development of Ashchurch Station and a bus service (hopefully electric) between the station, the Outlet Park and Tewkesbury; helping tourists to come to our Town and local people to commute to the new jobs created at the Park.

In addition to the town’s music weekend scheduled for June, It is also hoped that we will have a larger scale music festival in Tewkesbury like the Lakefest held at Eastnor and the Boathouse in 2021. There is a ground swell of support to reinstate a Bandstand in the Town, with some proceeds from our own “Lakefest” going towards the Bandstand venue to be confirmed.

Finally, I cannot emphasise enough how much we need

YOUR active support.

TRI is still short of volunteers who can offer a few hours a week to help with media coverage, admin; project managers and

Christmas Fare selected from the best traditional British farms, Artisan kitche ns, organic providers, loc al brewers and distillers.

Just enjoy the best this year.

Our succulent Dry Aged Steak and grass fed Beef come from our own local, LongHorn Herd.

Turkeys, Geese, Ducks, Sausages, Hams, Cooked Meats, Pies, Cheeses, Sauces, Chutneys, Preserves, Soups, Fresh Breads, Aged Steaks, Ales, Ciders, Perries, Wines, Champagnes, Spirits, Chocolates, Biscuits, Gifts and Decorations.

Discover the fascinating history of the twelve days of Christmas, and how our ancestors filled this festive period with music, dancing, mischief and lots of food!

Tickets: Adults £6, Concessions £4.50, Children £2 (includes entry to John Moore Museum & Merchant’s House) Pre-book by calling 01684 2697174 or email: education@johnmooremuseum.org.

No pre-payment required.

Lisa x

The home of a truly, traditional English Christmas

A MERRY TUDOR CHRISTMAS TALK Saturday 11th December 11am at the Old Baptist Chapel

coordinators. The TRI inertia and work-load are both increasing in tandem.

by Tim Wright TRI Coordinator

“Christmas shopping ideas?

Do pop in to my shop,I have a large range of seasonal cards and thoughtful gifts, to choose from.”

BUTCHERY COFFE SHOP WITH FOOD TO GO

Teddington Hands (Roundabout), Evesham Road, Teddington, Glos GL20 8NE 01386 725400 www.teddingtonstores.co.uk Open 7 days a week

Your local artisan food hall serving you the best of British produce

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FREE INITIAL 30 MINUTE APPOINTMENT TRUST US TO LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY

PROBATE AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATION Dealing with the death of a loved one will always be a difficult time. Being named as an executor in a Will or being personal representative of someone who has died without a Will, can be an overwhelming responsibility in what is an undoubtedly emotional and stressful time for your family.

At WLS Solicitors we take a personal approach and help to deal with all aspects of Estate Administration by ensuring that you receive the right legal guidance and support.

Our charges are transparent, and you will only pay for the work that you needed our expert assistance with. We also offer fixed fees for Probate and Estate Administration which can be discussed with our initinal appointment.

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range of services focused on protecting individuals and their assets for future generations.

We understand you may be time and we aim to make the process, whether it relates to the sale or purchase of a property, or end of life planning as stress free as possible.

We care.

Contact us now: 01684 216777 info@wlssolicitors.co.uk

• Applications for Grants of Probate/administration • Dealing with anoutstanding debts or liabilities of the deceased • Preparing and filing the necessary tax returns with HM Revenue & Customs • Distributing the estate and accounting to each beneficiary • Dealing with estates where there is no Will • Dealing with Will disputes

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FREE INITIAL 30 MINUTE APPOINTMENT TRUST US TO LOOK AFTER YOUR FAMILY Private Client

CONVEYANCING & PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS Conveyancing Our Residential Property expert, Karen Dodd, is highly experienced within great relationship with her clients and local estate agents. Karen has repeat business from her clients, who recommend her to friends and family.

Our Head of Private Client and Trusts, Olga Washington, provides will writing services, creating a wide range of bespoke Wills, ranging from the most basic to the most complicated. Our experience of writing trusts means we can provide high quality advice to avoid the payment of Inheritance Tax. UK Trust Law is not always straightforward, if you require advice or assistance from a Solicitor specialising in UK Tax and Trust Law and estate planning, our experienced team can help you.

Karen is committed to providing a service which is both distinct and superior, keeping

Our Trusts and Estate Planning services include:

comprehensive advice on a number of property services to include:

• Setting up administration and amendment of Trusts

• Buying and Selling property

• The creation and ongoing administration of Lifetime Trusts

• Mortgages and Re-mortgages • Transfers of equity

• Advising both Trustees and Beneficiaries • Advising on Tax exemptions and reliefs

• Lease extensions • New build and help to buy • Shared ownership Our approach is personable, responsible and accountable.

Here at WLS, we believe that pricing should be transparent and we will provide accurate and detailed advice as to both timing and costs.

• The preparation of annual tax returns • Family businesses and Family Ltd Partnerships • Gifting Assets (during lifetime or on death) • Advice on related tax issues, including Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Income Tax • Winding up of Trusts Contact us at WLS Solicitors on: 01684 216777.

Contact us now: 01684 216777 | info@wlssolicitors.co.uk

www.wlssolicitors.co.uk

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2017 - 2019

ESTATE AGENT IN GL17-20

Just a sample of our successes in 2021

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01684 293 246

155 High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JP

sales@engallcastle.com www.engallcastle.com

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ONE WAY SYSTEM FOR TEWKESBURY HIGH STREET? Do you support proposals for a one-way system with herringbone parking on one side, or do you think pedestrianisation would be the better option? Or may be you love the High St., just as it is?

TRI will be holding a public meeting on Thursday, 9th December at 6.30pm in the Town Hall to give local residents the opportunity to discuss the pros and cons of these schemes.

There are definitely questions to be asked.

Which way would the traffic flow in a oneway system? How will shops with no back access cope with deliveries if the High Street is pedestrianised?

More urgently perhaps there is money currently available for smaller, more immediate projects such as the Bring Back Better Market Towns Fund.

As usual with all grants there is a restrictive criteria to meet but, as a Town, we need to grab this opportunity, be decisive and creative about what we want, and go for it!

Diligence and perseverance will be required but this should not be beyond us. Now is the time to act before it is too late, the people who live and work in the High Street are surely the best placed to know what would improve

Est.2007

and make changes.

By Tim Wright Tewkesbury Rejuvination Initiative

their area.

Please come and listen to our plans and share your ideas, then we can more forward together

YOU ARE INVITED TEWKESBURY REJUVENATION INITIATIVE OPEN FORUM Thursday 9th December 6.30pm at the Town Hall TRI only started in August this year but has made inroads into making Tewkesbury a go-to town. There is much to do and we want YOU to have the opportunity to voice your concerns and ideas for better.

TRI will update everyone on progress in a number of key areas and invite you to have your say on such matters as: • A one-way traffic system, pedestrianisation • Pathways and Cycleways • More urgently perhaps there is money currently available for smaller, more immediate projects such as the Bring Back Better Market Towns Fund.

Please join in it’s your town. tewkesburytri@gmail.com

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The Christmas Lights in Tewkesbury town A stall is set, they came on down Its all good stuff, not some old tat And all in cash, no need for VAT Well done Shelly and Tab, £250.00 raised on a cold Sunday for the Christmas Lights.

Tewkesbury: The Ancient Grudge, 15 High Street, Tewkesbury, Gl20 5AL. Tel. 01684 275276 Fax. 01684 276661 Walton Cardiff: 4 Columbine Road, Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury, GL20 7SP. Tel. 01684 295417 Fax. 01684 851780 www.tagestateagents.co.uk | info@ancientgrudge.co.uk

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TEWKESBURY THEN AND NOW with John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society

Shops that would last forever? (1958 TBC)

It is a shame that these two properties, redundant thanks to the Covid Epidemic and the decline of banking, are being let separately, writes John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society.

Before then it was a superb Georgian building built at the zenith of the Town’s wealth in the late 18thC. It housed the Cross Keys Public House which, from about 1775, had been a “natural rendez-vous for local guilds and societies” - it was HQ for Reformist Whig politicians. However, there was no evidence that it was a coaching inn unlike its neighbour the Swan – although there were stables to the rear in Tolsey Lane.

It was the invasion of the railways in 1840 which undermined the town’s prosperity: the population decreased from 5,878 to 5,100 and coaching inns were ruined.

Georgian Building to let (November 2021) In this case it caused the whole building’s subdivision. The left-hand half became a draper’s shop, and the right side was bought in 1903 by the Midland Bank (more recently HSBC). That brought temporary stability.

Bank managers were once regarded as leading citizens of the town. The exotically named Harold de Courcy Peach was also President of the Chamber of Commerce, leader of the Dickens Society; Masonic Master until 1933 when he was honoured by being included in a series of leaders’ cartoons.

He was followed by Lt. Comm. HAC Freeman a WWI veteran who was leader of the Sea Cadets for 12 years including WWII. Harold de Courcy I am sure also that older Peach, cartoon by E J readers will remember Massey in the TewkesBradley’s with affection, bury Register respect - and probably regret. It would be wonderful if this fine historic building could be reunited in its Georgian splendour with viable modern businesses.

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Find out more about our personal property managements service: Call today 01684 292154 or visit charlescarterlettings.co.uk TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 19

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PHARMACY MATTERS with Peter Badham We have always offered a free blood pressure testing service at our pharmacies, writes Peter Badham.

I am pleased to confirm that this important service has been formally recognised, on a national level, to pharmacies that wish to engage.

The purpose of the new service is that all patients over forty years

Hypertension Case Finding Service old, who are not on blood pressure medication, will be encouraged to have their clinic and ambulatory pressure checked.

Within the new service, there is a pathway set out, depending on the results obtained.

Most patients, I as

sure, will be in range, and will therefore be given heathy life style advice.

There will, however, be some patents who may need to be referred to their GP. It is estimated that as many as 5.5 million people in the UK have high

blood pressure, and do not realise it.

High blood pressure is the silent killer, causing heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease in addition to other conditions.

Like all things in life, equally low blood pressure is a risk factor, and

these patients are better protected if this is identified.

Call in and see your pharmacist today, and have your numbers checked, better to be safe! For your nearest Badham Pharmacy, visit the website www.badham pharmacy.co.uk

Peter Badham

TREATMENTS FIT AROUND CLIENTS’ LIFESTYLES Military wife Hannah Ellis is finding herself in big demand, after establishing a new business following the first 2020 lockdown.

SEALEY COMPACT RECHARGEABLE TYRE INFLATOR

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TENG 36PC 1/4” METRIC SOCKET SET

TENG 16PC 1/2” DRIVE HEX BIT SOCKET SET

£39.99 (inc. VAT)

“I am originally from Leeds but my family and I move regularly to support my husband's Army career,” said Hannah.

Now living in Ashchurch, Hannah decided to train in something she loved, to give herself a break from the pressure of teaching at secondary school while bringing up her two young children.

One year later, Hannah has a successful salon, You Beauty, which she built up from nothing.

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Hannah Ellis Established 1991

Northway Lane, Newtown Trading Estate, Tewkesbury

Tel (01684) 297722 www.cotswoldengineeringsupplies.co.uk

“I offer a number of nail and beauty treatments in evenings and at weekends to fit around not only my own but my clients' family life and schedules.

JOIN OUR CHRISTMAS SAVINGS CLUB We have everything you need for your car including: • SCREEN WASH• BULBS BIKES • WIPER BLADES NOW IN • OIL FILTERS • ANTIFREEZE STOCK • LUBRICANTS ACCESSORIES SPARES • CLEANING PRODUCTS • BATTERIES - including stop start vehicles - fitted from £30 WE’LL CHANGE IT FOR YOU! Bulbs, wipers, plugs etc - just call us!

Order your bike for Christmas and get a FREE lock

SMILIE and SMILIE AUTO TRANSPORTABLE FOLDING SCOOTERS Easy fold mechanism or powered auto fold. Lightweight: Lithium Ion Battery INNER TUBE RECYCLING SCHEME Drop off your old inner tubes to us, and they’ll be collected by Schwalbe to be used in the manufacture of new ones!

57 Barton Street • Tewkesbury • GL20 5PX 01684 292679 email autosparestewkesbury@yahoo.com 20 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

FULL MOBILITY SCOOTER SERVICE

£49.99 (ex. VAT)

“My treatments focus on enhancing natural beauty and making customers feel more confident in their own skin.

“I have always struggled with low self esteem but taking time for myself to be pampered has always made me feel better.

“I want to give that feelgood factor back to

my clients.”

Hannah is offering a range of Christmas pampering packages from her salon in St David’s Road, Ashchurch, starting at just £25.

For more details please see her advert below, or call Hannah on 07932 888551 for more information on the treatments she offers.

Tewkes Direct December 2021 1-28_Tewkes Direct April 1-22 24/11/2021 10:45 Page 21

Worcester Road Mythe Tewkesbury GL20 6EB • Ample free parking • Closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve until Wednesday 5th January

Normal Opening Times: Monday-Saturday 9.00am-5.30pm Sunday 10.00am-4.00pm

From Field To Home In Days Pot Grown Trees • Gifts • Cards • Lights and Decorations Festive Food and Drink Christmas Tree Recycling from Wednesday 5th January www.tewkesburygardencentre.com • 01684 293103

Come and join us for fresh, home-cooked festive lunches Sunday Roasts • Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea Daily Specials • Vegetarian and gluten-free choices Open Mon-Sat 9am-4.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm Closed 25th Dec-4th Jan inclusive (Re-open Wed 5th Jan) Booking Advised • Call us direct on 01684 299996

Pre-Order Your Floral Seasonal Arrangements Christmas Wreaths • Speciality hand tied bouquets FREE DELIVERY within 4 mile radius Order in store or online Call us direct on 01684 290288 or visit our webshop www.flowershedtewkesbury.co.uk Open Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm Closed 25 Dec- 4th Jan Re-open Wed 5th Jan The Flower Shed at Tewkesbury Garden Centre, Worcester Road, Mythe, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 21

CAR • VAN • 4X4 • CARAVAN Established 22 years

Open for you & ready to help

That New Kitchen Feeling… with less time, less hassle, less cost.

■ From Kitchen Makeovers with fresh doors, worktops, appliances, to full kitchen supply and installation from a trusted local independent business.

■ Call us on 01684 439913 for a FREE, no obligation, quote in your own home or visit our showroom at 4 High Street, Upton upon Severn WR8 0HB.

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RECYCLERS OF TYRES AND BATTERIES

RGE ME N

FI

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We now offer MOBILE FITTING at Home or at Work

TTIN G

Specialists in Car, Van, Lorry, Plant, Agricultural, Motorcycle, Caravan, Mobility Scooter and many other tyre applications.

RING US FIRST FOR THE BEST PRICES AROUND Helping you safely on your way

Unit 2 Power Station, Northway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8JH

01684 295 226 117/118 High St, Tewkesbury, GL20 5JY

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SEVERN UNIT MVS GIVE AVON LOCK HEDGES AN END OF SEASON TRIM Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service turned out in force to help Paul Cronin from Avon Navigation Trust give the hedges and trees around Avon Lock a final prune and tidy up before the Winter.

Head of Unit Nic Price said “We took two boats laden with gardening kit down to the lock

and spent a busy but happy afternoon trimming round the lock garden so it is all neat and tidy for the end of the season.

Members then enjoyed a fish and chip supper on the riverbank”. The Unit will continue to operate on the river during the Winter whenever the weather and river conditions permit.

Tewkesbury Cards & Gifts

Twyning Players Present

TREASURE ISLAND The panto, by Richard Lloyd

At Twyning Village Hall 2nd, 3rd & 4th December 7.30pm (MAT 2.30pm on the 4th) Tickets £9 (£7 concession) Available from The Village Inn or shop (cash only)

We have hundreds of delightful, traditional wooden toys to choose from, to give this Christmas.

135 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5JR

01684 290845

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

OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH Traditional or Indian Menu

£29.95pp £19.95pp

1st Choice

Aerial & Satellites Digital Aerial Installations

(Adults)

(Child under 12)

Upgrades and Repairs

Mark Hawkes

Tel: 01684 325024

10% off with this advert TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 23

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GLEVUM CARS

01684 295589

WIDE VARIETY OF QUALITY CARS IN STOCK • FINANCE AVAILABLE • WARRANTY PACKAGES • PART EXCHANGE WELCOME

TEWKESBURY’S USED CAR SUPERSTORE Come and check our great cars and vans online, better still, see them today… Just minutes from Tewkesbury Town Centre, over 50 quality vehicles, on display, waiting to drive away, from £1,000 to £10,000.

THIS MONTHS TOP TEN CHOSEN VEHICLES… HYUNDAI I30

FORD S-MAX

(2016/16)

(2010/59)

HATCHBACK SE BLUE DRIVE

MPV TITANIUM TDCI

1,368cc | Manual 81,000 Miles | Petrol

1,997cc | Auto 110,000 Miles | Diesel

£7,495

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NISSAN QASHQAI

VOLVO V50

(2011/60)

(2011/61)

SUV QASHQAI N-TEC DCI

ESTATE D2 ES

1,461cc | Manual 62,000 Miles | Diesel

1,560cc | Manual 145,000 Miles | Diesel

£6,495

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KIA CEED

FORD MONDEO

(2014/14)

(2008/08)

HATCHBACK CRDI 2 ECODYNAMICS

SALOON ZETEC 145

1,582cc | Manual 82,000 Miles | Diesel

1,999cc | Manual 55,000 Miles | Petrol

£6,495

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FIAT 500

CITROEN C3

(2012)

(2011/11)

CONVERTIBLE C LOUNGE

HATCHBACK HDI CONNEXION

1,242cc | Manual 48,000 Miles | Petrol

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(2014/14)

(2014/14)

HATCHBACK DYNAMIQUE TOMTOM ENERGY DCI SS

MPV XMOD DYNAMIQUE TOMTOM ENERGY DCI SS

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1,461cc | Manual 73,000 Miles | Diesel

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Hoo Garage, Gloucester Road, Tewkesbury GL20 7DA 24 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

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We require a Full Time Vehicle Technician for our, busy, friendly garage.

An excellent rate of pay offered.

For more details please contact Adrian Lester, email: enquiries@twyninggarage.co.uk

Merry Christmas

A selection of our current opportunities listed below (correct at time of press).

We recommend you send us your CV & register to ensure you don’t miss any relevant opportunities.

Marketing Executive (Tewkesbury) c£30K Information Analyst (Tewkesbury) up to £40K Bid Writer (Tewkesbury) £30K+ (+ generous bonus & benefits package) Accounts Assistant (Tewkesbury) £22K Laboratory Technician (Moreton-in-Marsh) £25K Business Support Administrator up to £22K (split work location; Worcester & Tewkesbury)

Production Operatives (Cheltenham) £26K (2days/2nights - 4 on 4 off rotating shifts) Warehouse Assistant (Pershore) £20K Customer Service Admin (Tewkesbury) £10.23ph (3mth contract – hybrid working) Window Fitter £25K Trainee Fitter £18K Window Fabricator (Tewkesbury) up to £24K Various Temporary opportunities £8.91ph+

As part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone proposed improvements to Tewkesbury High Street letters have been received by some ‘buildings’ this week advising that there are 75% grants available for changing shop fronts and fascias.

The aim being to preserve the ‘Heritage’ of the Town. This would mean honouring the restriction to using ‘Tewkesbury colours’, removing awnings (which I have found quite useful in sudden downpours!) and putting frontages back to previous styles.

I was rather surprised that Bookworm (150 High St,.) has been approved by TBC to be part of this scheme. Visitors are attracted by its frontage, it is in keeping with the long narrow shop, and complements the sale of books. There is no indication in the letter as to what the proposed changes would be but from a traders point of view I can’t see that there would be any advantages. I would be interested to know what customers and residence think as admittedly, I spend more time on the inside than the outside!

There are some truly ugly buildings on the High Street that do not seem to be included, but I understand there may be a second phase.

More information is available on www.tewkesbury.gov. uk/hshaz-improvements-to-shopfronts.

by Karen Brennan of Bookworm, High Street Tewkesbury

OUR PHARMACY IN CHURCH ROADS BISHOPS CLEEVE IS OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone

We offer a range of services including the new Minor Ailment Service.

We can supply free of charge, subject to criteria, a range of treatments for coughs, colds, eye infection, constipation etc.

Don’t suffer, pop in and see us.

Badham Pharmacy 23 Church Road Bishops Cleeve Tel 01242 672653 TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 25

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‘Hide not your talents, they for use were made. What’s a sundial in the shade?’

Benjamin Franklin

Our Special Seasonal Gift We Invite you to dine at Panache on Christmas Day for FREE Enjoy the spirit of the season, a lunch of 5 courses, as a thank you for the support given to us by our customers.

Pay for nothing although drinks will need to be bought, and a kindly tip for our staff would be appreciated as they will be giving up their free time.

You will need to book your table now.

“Remember, Christmas Day is for celebrating with family and friends, not to be stuck in the kitchen cooking and cleaning. All are welcome.”

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Tipu and all the staff from Panache.

61 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5BJ Telephone 01684 299584

There was something special about being at this event: a feeling that we were part of something meaningful and unique. It isn’t very often that adults (younger and older) are invited to share such a variety of talents. TADS’ Talent Unlocked event, on October 24th, saw eight finalists competing for prize money, with high quality performances in dance, drama, and music.

volved, especially those who were brave enough to enter and share their talents with the public. Every single performance was brilliant, and every performer commented on how much they’d enjoyed being involved in this event.

Drama Society (TADS), The Heat (or the over 40s version: The Dames), or Tewkesbury Pub Singers (TPS) by finding them on Facebook? We have so much talent to celebrate in this town let’s continue to share it!

It’s time to get involved again in the things you love. Why not consider joining Tewkesbury Arts and

Oonagh Hughes, Tewkesbury Arts and Drama Society

The four judges gave excellent critiques of each act and chose the top three performances. Emma Parrott, The Heat, and Tewkesbury Pub Singers were then voted upon by the members of the audience. A huge congratulations to winners The Heat, and to the runner-up, Emma Parrott.

TADS would like to thank everyone in-

Audi BMW Citroen Fiat Ford Honda Hyundai Jaguar Kia Land Rover Lexus Mazda Mercedes Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Peugeot Porsche Renault SEAT Skoda Subaru Toyota VW Volvo

SEVERN POINT AUTOMOTIVE Don’t get your hair in a tinsel and get yourself booked in for your Christmas appointment at Gira Capelli. Sparkle the season away with a cut, colour, or e en a esti e u do nd once you e finished indulging yourself, shop our range of Olaplex and Moroccan oil gift sets; so good, anta wishes he had thou ht o it first

So, call us today on 01684 299753: yule won t re ret it In the meantime, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram to see our latest creations: @giracapelli 26 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

OIL SERVICE

from £99.00

MOT

INTERIM SERVICE

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CAMBELTS

MAJOR SERVICE

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DIAGNOSTIC CHECK

£39.95 from £199.00 £49.00

All makes servicing and repairs for Cars, Vans and 4x4’s Collection and Delivery and Courtesy Cars Available

OPENING TIMES Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday - 8.00 - 18.00 Saturday - 8.00 - 12.00 Sunday - Closed

NEED SOMETHING ELSE? CONTACT US: 01684 322898 contact@sp-auto.co.uk www.severnpointautomotive.co.uk Unit 3, Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8PF

Tewkesbury Choral Society,forthcoming Concerts and an invitation to join.

Tewkesbury Choral Society is one of the oldest choral societies in the country having been founded in 1844. We meet each Monday from 7.30pm until 9.30pm in Chance Street School, Tewkesbury to rehearse during the autumn, spring and early summer.

Having been prepared and carefully rehearsed, we perform our concerts, usually in May and December, in the magnificent setting of Tewkesbury Abbey, with a professional orchestra and

soloists. The works we have covered in recent years have ranged from Bach to Bernstein, and in a variety of languages - English, Latin, French, German, Spanish and Hebrew.

Our concert on December 4th is Haydn’s “Creation”, and in January we begin work on “A German Requiem” by Brahms.

During the pandemic we have maintained our vocal practices via Zoom, under the careful watch of our Musical Director, John Holloway. We have

covered some well known choral works - Joseph Haydn’s “Nelson Mass” and “Gloria” by Antonio Vivaldi. It is hoped that these will provide material for a concert in the future. We have also looked at shorter part songs by various composers such as Elgar and Vaughan Williams.

In 2019, we visited the Rhineland of Germany, singing Handel’s “Messiah” in two delightful churches in Boppard and Koblenz.

We are planning another overseas trip to

Tallin, the capital of Estonia, and although this was delayed due to the Corona Virus, we are hoping this will go ahead in the summer of 2022 If you enjoy singing with others and would be interested in joining us, please look at our website – www.tewkesburychoral.org.uk. You can message us for more details of our first rehearsal of 2022 on 10th January on the Contact Us page and we will get in touch with you.

9th – 12th December

Please get in touch with with Revd Suzanne or Alison stnicholasashchurch@hotmail.com

9 Church Street Tewkesbury GL20 5PA

01684 437400

Berkeley Arms

St Nicholas Ashchurch

Are you interested in taking part?

Unique gifts and decorations but also Tewkesbury 1471 Gin Now available in gift packs

The

Christmas Tree Festival 2021

Wednesday 8th Switch on ceremony at 6pm Thurs 9th, Fri 10th & Sat 11th Church open to view the trees 10 – 4pm Sun 12th Church open 12:30 – 4pm

ChurCh Street GiftS

"Come and enjoy the festive season with us. we have great Ales, super atmosphere with a real fire.

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas, and great times ahead"

(01684) 290555 theberkeleyarms.pub ron@theberkeleyarms.pub Visit The Berkeley Arms on Facebook

Regular cask ales

The Roses Theatre Choir, in association with St. Nicholas Church, warmly invites you to an uplifting evening of Christmas music.

St. Nicholas Church Ashchurch GL20 8JZ

Sunday 12th December 6:00-7:30pm Doors open 5:45pm Entr y: Donations Proceeds will be shared between the church and local charity GRASAC: Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre.

• Wadworth 6X • Wadworth Henry’s IPA • Wadworth Horizon • Guest Ales Also Guinness Thatchers, Westons & Stowfords Ciders Amstel & Birra Moretti Lagers Changing cask ales This pub serves two changing beers.

8 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5PA TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 27

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RAMBLING AROUND with Jack B. Walker

A CHRISTMAS NATURE TRAIL This flat walk is perfect for a post-Christmas stroll as it is most flat writes Jack. B. Walker. It passes through an arboretum and Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve, and around part of Kemerton village.

To start the walk, park in one of the car parks on the B4079 near Bredon Village Hall. The 540 bus from Tewkesbury to Evesham also stops nearby.

Walk out of the village, passing Queensmead, until you reach a drive on the right, which leads down to the old Westmancote Nurseries (1). Walk up it and pass to the right of the greenhouses.

Cross over a small

Early morning, Kemerton Lake footbridge (2) and follow the path around the edge of a plantation, keeping the hedge to your left.

When you reach the next track (3) turn left and then take the stile on your right into the Park Field (4); follow

the direction arrows across the field to a road.

Go through the gate (5), cross the road, bear slightly left and take the gate into the orchard opposite.

Walk over to the opposite side and go through the gate on to the road (6).

Turn right and walk down the lane, passing the church and Upper Court on the left.

Eventually the lane bears sharply right, then meets Kinsham Lane. At the T junction turn right (7) and look for the sign on the left to Kemerton Lake Nature Reserve.

Walk down the track between two hedges until it meets the same track you were on earlier. Turn left (8) and walk towards the wood, which you will enter via a kissing gate.

Note: for a shorter walk, turn right at point 8 and walk along the track until you reach point 3, then retrace your steps back to Bredon.

Walk through the trees and after a short

Distance: approx. 3.5 miles, flat (can be muddy) Car Parking: car parks in Bredon village Public transport: 540 Tewkesbury-Evesham bus route (no Sunday/Bank Holiday Services) Refreshments: Royal Oak or Fox & Hounds in Bredon; The Crown Inn at Kemerton OS sheet 190 recommended: map not to scale distance you will emerge by the lake, where there are good views of the wildfowl on the large expanse of water from the Conservation Trust’s hide along a jetty (sometimes locked).

Continue along the narrow path between two wire fences and go through a kissing gate to enter the arboretum proper.

Turn left along the broad path: there is a map of permissive paths by a bench ahead on the left, turn right opposite the bench and take the public footpath (9) and walk down the edge of the field keeping the hedge to your left.

Upon reaching the road (B4079) turn right (X) and walk back (with care) to Bredon village.

PRICES CORRECT AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRESS. OFFERS VALID TO 28th FEBRUARY 2022 (INCLUSIVE) J D WETHERSPOON RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OR WITHDRAW OFFERS WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.

WETHERSPOON GIFT CARDS The Ideal Christmas Gift - please ask at the Royal Hop Pole bar for details

28 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

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Leptospirosis - a real danger to your dog This month I thought I would write about Leptospirosis as we have seen four cases over the last couple of months. It’s not a nice illness at all for those dogs that are infected. writes Brad Cooper of Folly Gardens Vets.

Leptospirosis is a disease that can make dogs very, very ill, cause long term damage and can even be fatal.

The incidence depends very much upon where you live, your lifestyle and where you walk your dog, but most dogs are at risk.

The disease in seen in veterinary practices over the country and has recently been labelled “re-emerging” as cases seem to be on the rise.

It is a disease that can be largely protected against by annual vaccinations but the critical point is that immunity wanes which is why yearly boosters must be given.

How is it caught?

Wild animals can carry the disease for years without signs, spreading Leptospirosis in their infected urine.

Once in the moist soil or stagnant water the bacteria can remain infectious for several months. Any pet of any age can become infected but dogs that spend more time outside and those with a poorer immunity (young or old) are at higher risk.

What signs are there to look for?

The signs of Leptospirosis are not unique to this disease and can be vague and varied. There is often a fever.

The bacteria affects the kidney causing tiredness, lack of appetite, vomiting, abdominal pain and changes in urination.

Dogs with a weaker immune system may not survive this phase but those that do can be left with long term kidney disease or liver disease.

How is it diagnosed?

There are several diagnostic tests that are available to diagnose Leptospirosis but depending upon the stage of infection, none of the tests are 100% accurate.

For a dog presenting with signs of kidney or liver disease, with a fever, is unvaccinated or at high risk, Leptospirosis will always be high on the list of potential diagnoses.

Is it treatable?

If treated early an initial course of antibiotics is given intravenously, followed by a longer course of antibiotics to reduce shedding of bacteria. All but the mildest cases are hospitalised as the majority require supportive care for their damaged organs. It should be noted that Leptospirosis is infectious to humans where it is known as Weil’s disease. It is very serious.

What’s the best way to prevent Leptospirosis?

Fortunately, vaccines are available. We recommend protecting against the common 4 strains of Leptospira (L4) although there is a vaccine available with only 2 strains (L2).

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes. There have been reports in the media questioning the safety of the L4 vaccines.

There is a very low risk of adverse reactions as with any medication or vaccine but both are statistically low especially when you consider the risk of the actual disease.

It is worth noting that for those dogs that we have seen recently at Folly Gardens Vets, all of the cases were either un-vaccinated or were overdue their annual boosters.

Wishing you and your pet well Brad and all of the team at Folly Gardens PS “I promise to get a more recent picture next time!”

Wishing you All a Very Happy and Healthy Christmas Folly Gardens Veterinary Clinic, 12 Columbine Road Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury GL20 7SP

Telephone: 01684 292244 We’re also at Bishop’s Cleeve and Cheltenham - www.follygardens.com TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 29

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THE TEWKESBURY DIRECT Word Search

Tewkesbury’s famous Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant CELEBRATING 21 YEARS IN TEWKESBURY DINE IN • DINE OUT • FREE DELIVERY (within specified areas of Tewkesbury)

Visit: www.rajshahirestaurantltd.co.uk

A H A Y D N O N L A W G H L M I E A B

R A T R E Y C L O A O U N P S Y L H E S A A T M E D T P E L C L N U E S C A B R S A O I L R A G P M R A S B R V N

T R B M A B F W Z I U K I S C L U A A

D U R O L E R G E I R G U H A E L E C

H M E T R V R J S Y S O A E C Z A R T R N X S A L L V O R K I R U L E O R T Y M Q N G M Z S N A G E A V E L D B U O N R Y R A S E P H A A D G I S M D S T L K O G N V P A P D I S N E N F A T

J O M N W N E O D E O U R S H B L Z R

E C S A U M C C H I X A L C R R Q B D S L E Y R L E U P N O R A C R S L E H A C S B S S L G I S S W C K K M N N R

Test your brain power with the Tewkesbury Direct Word Search.

This month the puzzle conceals the surnames of twelve Classical Composers: BACH BRAHMS BRITTEN CHOPIN DVORAK ELGAR GRIEG HANDEL HAYDN LISZT MOZART RAVEL Word Search Rules: The names in the word search grid may read vertically, horizontally and diagonally from left to right, right to left, bottom to top or top to bottom.

A family run Italian Restaurant A great selection to choose from on our à la carte menu - all government guidelines in place for worry-free dining Check out our delicious menu on the website www.zittoemangia.co.uk or call 01684 297017 to make a reservation

A gastronomic experience to remember Special Banquet Night Every Tuesday

Open: Mon-Sat 5.30pm-10.00pm 25 High Street,Tewkesbury GL20 5AT

Open 7 days a week

Come in and taste Mediterranean delights All home made - Always delicious

Home Dining Visit our website for our full takeaway menu

Enjoy a superb coffee or choose a Cypriot delight from our menu...shakes, waffles, crepes, sandwiches Homemade Ice Cream in a huge range of flavours

16 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AL Exceptional quality Indian food with very traditional flavours

FREE HOME DELIVERY 20%on OFF TAKEAWAY collection orders over £10

in specified areas within 3 mile radius of Tewkesbury

01684 295 226 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6.00pm-10.00pm 117/118 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5JY

www.crystalriversdining.co.uk

Tewkesbury Fryer FISH & CHIPS, KEBABS AND BURGERS Gluten-free batter & pizzas now available every day

Columbine Road, Walton Cardiff

PANACHE Indian Restaurant Specialists in freshly prepared Bangladeshi & Indian Curry, Balti & Tandoori Dishes Opening Hours Lunch 12 noon - 2.00pm - Evening 5.30pm - 10.00pm

01684 290888 Mon & Tues: 17.00-22.00 Wed-Sat: 12.00-14.00 and 16.30-22.00 DELIVERY AVAILABLE WED-SAT FROM 17.00 UNTIL 21.00 All takeaway food is served in cardboard boxes.Your food stays warmer for longer,easier to hold and eat, and no washing up!

STONE WILLY’S PIZZA

Find us on Facebook Save time on your next visit, order online

tewkesburyfryer.com 30 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

extensive takeaway menu

Chinese Restaurant & Take-Away DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

on Facebook - make your selection and

01684 293714 or 07724 630083

Dear Customers - Find our

Call 01684 299584 “Hope to see you all soon” - Tipu

61 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5BJ

The Crown, Mythe Rd, Shuthonger, Tewkesbury GL20 6EF Sun & Tues-Thurs 5pm-10pm, Fri & Sat 5pm-10pm Monday closed, Open All Bank Holidays

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3: Which date is sometimes called ‘Old Christmas Day’ in parts of the UK?

1: Which Christmas story features the characters Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley and Fezziwig?

4: What connects Humphrey Bogart, Annie Lennox, Sissy Spacek and Sir Isaac Newton?

2: James Stewart stars as George Bailey in which popular Christmas movie?

5: In 1989, which film attracted the biggest ever UK TV audience for a Christmas Day screening?

5: Which song topped the UK singles charts in both 1975 and 1991?

ANSWERS: 1. A Christmas Carol 2. It’s A Wonderful Life 3. January 6th 4. They were all born on Christmas Day 5. Crocodile Dundee (21.8 million) 6. Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody

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

Test your powers of recall with six of the best questions in our Pub Quiz.

LIVE MUSIC - to promote your event here, visit www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

A lunchtime of historical inspiration and lunch, courtesy of Loz 12 noon - 2pm at The Anchor, High Street, Tewkesbury

‘The Anchor University’ next meeting on

Tuesday 7th December 2021 Walton House: From Children’s Nursery to Local Eminence!

All those who love history are welcome

SAT 4th DEC: Tewkesbury Town Band’s Christmas Concert, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org SAT 4th DEC: The Budapest Café Orchestra, Ledbury Market Theatre. themarkettheatre.com SUN 5th DEC: Kate Rusby, Cheltenham Town Hall. www.cheltenhamtown hall.org.uk WED 8th DEC: Cara Dillon, Cheltenham Town Hall. www.cheltenhamtown hall.org.uk

This month’s highlights for getting out and about

ARENA BIRMINGHAM 8 DEC TOM JONES 17 DEC MADNESS 21 DEC BILL BAILEY www.arenabham.co.uk

NEC BIRMINGHAM 26 NOV - 23 DEC CHRISTMAS PARTY WORLD 3-22 DEC THE LUNA DRIVE-IN WINTER CINEMA 27 DEC TOY COLLECTORS FAIR www.thenec.co.uk

PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM 18-24 DEC CHRISTMAS AT TOAD HALL www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

EVERYMAN, CHELTENHAM UNTIL 9 JAN JACK & THE BEANSTALK www.everymantheatre.org.uk

THE HENRICIAN, EVESHAM 8 DEC THE SILK ROAD UNRAVELLED 12 DEC BRETFORTON SILVER BAND CHRISTMAS www.henrician.org

FRI 10th DEC: Swinging Rocking Christmas with Peter Gill, Playhouse Theatre, cheltenhamplayhouse. org.uk SAT 11th DEC: Tim Jones at Christmas, Playhouse Theatre, Cheltenham. cheltenhamplayhouse. org.uk THURS 16th DEC: Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

FRI 17th DEC: Open Mic Night at The Watson Hall. tewkesburytowncouncil.gov.uk/whats-on/ THURS 17th DEC: Buddy Holly & The Cricketers (Tribute), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org SA 18th DEC: Gunrunner, Wheelhouse Café Bar, Upton-upon-Severn. thewheelhouseupton.com SAT 18th DEC: Ledbury Community Brass Band Christmas Concert, Ledbury Market Theatre. themarkettheatre.com SAT 8th DEC: Showaddywaddy, Cheltenham Town Hall. www.cheltenhamtown hall.org.uk THURS 20th JAN: Martyn Joseph, Cheltenham Town Hall. www.cheltenhamtown hall.org.uk TUES 1st FEB: Simon Kempston, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org WED 2nd FEB: Fairport Convention, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

WED 15th DEC: Christmas Concert with Robin A Smith, Chapel Arts Cheltenham www.thechapelarts.com

SAT 5th FEB: A Brief History of Music Ledbury Market Theatre. themarkettheatre.com

THURS 16th DEC: Steve Harley, Cheltenham Town Hall. www.cheltenhamtown hall.org.uk

FRI 25th FEB: Honeymoon Swing.

The Watson Hall. tewkesburytowncouncil.gov.uk/whats-on/

THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD 4-31 DEC THE SNOW QUEEN www.courtyard.org.uk 17 DEC A CHRISTMAS CAROL www.themarkettheatre.com

6-11 DEC SNOW WHITE (P.O.D.S.) www.number8.org

RSC STRATFORD-UPON-AVON UNTIL 31 DEC THE COMEDY OF ERRORS UNTIL 1 JAN 2022 THE MAGICIAN’S ELEPHANT www.rsc.org.uk

SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER 3 DEC-2 JAN 2022 BEAUTY & THE BEAST www.worcesterlive.co.uk

Main Courses Sea Bass with Parsley Butter Roast Turkey • Chicken Provencale 8oz Sirloin Steak Asparagus Tartlet (V) Seasonal Vegetables and Dauphinoise Potatoes Desserts Christmas Pudding • Cheese Cake Sticky Toffee Pudding, all served with cream, custard or ice cream Lemon Meringue • Vanilla Ice Cream

NEW YEAR’S EVE

MALVERN THEATRES

NUMBER 8 ARTS, PERSHORE

Starters Brie Wedges • Chicken Liver Paté French Onion Soup • Seafood Cocktail

To Finish Mince Pies • Tea and Coffee £24.95 per person ............

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

9 DEC - 2 JAN 2022 PETER PAN www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

RAILWAY INN CHRISTMAS MENU

DELIVERIES

Friday 31st December Live Music with Joey the Crow Buffet and a glass of Prosecco Tickets only £15 per person

SKITTLE ALLEY AVAILABLE

• Same day dedicated vehicles across the UK and Europe • Overnight parcels from £4.99 • All vehicles available from small van up to an artic • Available 24 hours a day 7 days per week

for a great night of bowling fun - families, friends and groups. Food available, ring to book

CALL US ON

Station Road, Ripple,Tewkesbury GL20 6EY

01684 296677 or 07843 217545

Tel: 01684 592 225

email sales@robertsexpressdelivery.co.uk

www.railwayinnatripple.co.uk

enquiries@railwayinnatripple.co.uk

TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 31

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ANIMAL MATTERS with Jo Knight of Grooming Purrcedures

Not every cat needs a nail trim Healthy, adventurous cats need their claws for climbing, traction when running, self-protection marking territory and usual cat activities, writes Jo Knight of Grooming Purrcedures.

These nails are continuously growing and by scratching on a tree/scratching post, the outer layer is shed and nails are kept sharp and trimmed.

To all our loyal customers and their pets - thank you for your support IN STOCK NOW

WE HAVE LOTS OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS... ..treats and stocking fillers for animals of all sizes - plus everything you need for your pet year round!

Animals Only, Unit B, The Northway Centre Northway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8TW

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For All Your Grooming Needs

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Some cats may not make use of their scratcher/trees – using our much-loved furniture instead.

In these instances, I would advise trying a different scratching post to try encourage new habits.

I find a decent size cardboard scratcher infused with catnip quite successful. Scolding or shouting does not work

WHAT’S GREEN ONTHE LOCAL SCENE with Cate Cody Continued from page 8 CHELTENHAM AND TEWKESBURY CYCLING CAMPAIGN For further details and to become a member, see www.cyclecheltenham.org.uk

– it will only cause anxiety and increase in bad habits.

If your cat is not shedding their nails naturally, due to age, illness or just pure laziness, they may need a nail trim from a vet or cat groomer.

Because of the curved shape, overgrown nails may grow back into their paw pad which can be very painful.

Mobile Cat Groomer Covering Gloucestershire and surrounding areas General Grooming and advice De-matting/Clip out Bath and Drying Nail trim

Jo Knight

07802 512677 groomingpurrcedures@gmail.com

Find us on Facebook

Sometimes old cats do not retract their nails properly, so trimming them back will make it more comfortable to walk.

This is obvious when you hear them click clacking across the floor.

It is very important to avoid cutting too short as cutting the quick of a cat’s nail will be very painful and bleed a lot.

Jo Knight

TEWKESBURY BLINDS & CURTAINS

STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUP - If you live on the estate, contact catecody99@gm ail.com TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVE Annual membership (£6 single, £10 joint, £12 family) contact supporters@tewkesburynaturereserve. org.uk Lots of volunteering opportunities too BNATURAL REFILL SHOP - S ave unnecessary plastic packaging whilst supporting a local, independent trader. Barton Street, Tewkesbury www. bnaturaloil.co.uk/ refill GREENER CHRISTMAS for a blog about greener Christmas tips please see www.ecocody.com/ 2017/11/how-tohave-yourself-verymerry-green.html www.ecocody.com 32 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

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.

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Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 33

Ever the Artful Dodger If you are looking for something a bit Dickensian this Christmas, local retired actor Norman Eshley might be able to help out, writes Ian Nicholson.

Norman and his wife moved to Tewkesbury six years ago after a successful acting career on stage and screen. He has recently published a novel, co-written with Elizabeth Revill, an established writer with many titles to her name.

We have all heard of the Artful Dodger from Oliver Twist, Norman and Elizabeth bring him very much alive incarcerated in Newgate prison awaiting transportation to Australia.

Jack Dawkins crime, the theft of a snuff box, more than enough to be sent down under. How he manages, and the resourcefulness he brings to his own aid is more than just in his name!

Norman, researched the history of transportation, and after his thespian career he was well qualified to write a screenplay about the Artful Dodger's further life; Elizabeth then helped to turn that text into this novel.

And what about Fagin? He is locked up awaiting the hangman's rope, while Bill Sikes is no more; but Jack Dawkins lives on - ever the Artful Dodger.

Follow that life by reading "The Dreamtime of the Artful Dodger" available in paperback at Alison's Bookshop at £ 9.99.

SALE OF KNITTED GOODS IN AID OF ROSES A sale of knitted goods will be held at Tewkesbury’s Roses Theatre on Saturday 11th December.

The sale will include winter clothing, gifts and decorations.

All proceeds will go towards supporting the theatre in future.

Northway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8JG • 01684 275566

13 VAUXHALL ASTRA SRi 5dr, silver, 36,000 miles, full Baylis service history...................................................£5299

58 FORD FOCUS 1.8 ZETEC 5dr, finished in red, incredibly nice condition .............................................................£1795

60 SUZUKI SWIFT SZ3 3dr, finished in white, history, nice car and only ................................................................£2999

16 RENAULT CLIO DYNAMIQUE NAV 16v, 5 speed, 5 door, 29,000 miles, full service history ................................£6999 60 RENAULT CLIO MUSIC finished in silver, 29,000 miles, stunning little car.......................................................£2495 14 SUZUKI SWIFT SZ3, 5 door, blue metallic, 40,000 miles, nice clean car..............................................................£4295 56 CITROEN C3 low mileage, new MOT.....................£1495 06 HYUNDAI GETZ part exchange to clear ................£795 02 FORD FOCUS ZETEC 998 TURBO finished in bright red, with Eco Boost function, fully equipped, 83,000 recorded miles...........................................................................£4895 98 MERCEDES 230 SLK KOMPRESSOR silver, full service history ........................................................................ £POA 16 CITROEN C3 finished in kingfisher blue, 21,000 miles, only............................................................................£5495

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TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 33

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TREE PLANTING On Monday 15th November, a group of year 6 children from Tewkesbury C of E Primary School finished the planting of 30 sapling trees in the grounds.

Some of the trees, a mixture of silver birch, rowan and wild cherry, were planted by other year 6 children and Mr Chris James (one of the site team) last week. Also in attendance were local Councillor, Cate Cody, and the Reverend Canon Paul Williams, one of the school’s governors.

The saplings had been delivered by the Woodland Trust after a successful application had been written by Mr Rob Stagg, PE/OPAL lead.

This year, the school has started working with OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) to transform the children’s lunchtime experiences. The aim is to offer children a variety of activities ranging from traditional sports, such as football and basketball, to bubble blowing, chalk drawing, or den building. Part of the process has been to improve the quality of the outdoor space at the school – hence the planting of the new saplings.

Over the next few years, these will grow to offer

an exciting new area for playing in and offering

shade during the sunny months.

Back row: Councillor Cody, Mr James, Reverend Canon Williams and Mr Stagg Front row: Year 6 pupils.

Photo by Jack Boskett

TAG Estate Agents were delighted to help raise funds for Tewkesbury Christmas Lights, by holding a tombola, with gifts donated by staff at TAG Estate Agents, they were able to raise a wonderful £250 which has been donated to Tewkesbury Christmas Lights Appeal. Thank you to everyone who helped us achieve this.

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40th Anniversary Gala brings end-of-season success to GWSR BAFTA-winning writer pens panto for Tewkesbury’s The Roses theatre The much-anticipated new show, King Arthur: The Panto! has been created especially for The Roses by BAFTA-winning writer, Maurice Gran.

Set in Medieval Tewkesbury, King Arthur tells the tale of a humble baker’s boy who is destined for greater things in life. Naturally, the path to glory is never straightforward and before he can fulfil his destiny, the hero must overcome his nemesis, Morgana Le Fey, and a big, scary dragon.

Ben Eagle returns to The Roses for the fourth time to play the dame and star baker, Ma Baker.

Ben said: “Ma Baker is a very sexy lady, obviously. Extremely attractive and the most promising bachelorette in Gloucestershire this Christmas. She is Arthur’s mother and runs the village bakery - she’s famous for her baps. She is on the lookout, though, for a new man. Take that as a warning for any men sitting in the front rows.

“Our show offers a couple of hours of perfect escapism, ensured to get the whole family into the Christmas spirit.”

Laurence and the super staff of The Cross House Tavern, thank all customers, friends and neighbours, for their fantastic support in 2021.

"We wish everyone, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and hope to see you all very soon."

At the Cross House you can now enjoy a pie with your pint.

As well as our homemade steak and ale pie; Old Spot pork pies, Scotch eggs and sausage rolls are also available. All made by our chef, Dave, and served hot or cold with homemade piccalilli and chutneys.

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway (GWSR) has ended its pre-Christmas operating season in spectacular style, with a two-day mixed traction gala that attracted almost 2,000 passengers.

The event, over the weekend of 6-7 November, was staged as a finale to the railway’s 40th Anniversary with eight locomotives operating – four steam, four diesel plus a diesel multiple-unit – working an intensive timetable that included a freight train.

There were in addition, double-headed and non-stop services each day.

Entirely organised and run by the railway’s volunteers, the

railway also threw open the doors of its David Page steam shed as well as the Carriage & Wagon department’s works at Winchcombe. Also operating was the Toddington Narrow Gauge Railway.

In addition, the railway offered on-theday tickets for rides in the superb newly-restored SR ‘Queen Mary’ bogie goods brake van as well as pre-bookable footplate rides.

35006 coasts through Toddington with the non stop on 6th November 2021. Photo by Ian Crowder.

The recently restored, Southern Railway, 1930’s brake van provided rides to delighted passengers.

TEWKESBURY ART SOCIETY Water Colour Demonstration

by George Boyter Tues 18th January 2022 10.00-12.30 At George Watson Hall Non members welcome £5.00 www.tewkesburyartssociety.org

Six real Ales, Ciders, Perries and guest Ales always on tap Licensed for takeaway ales and cider The Cross House Tavern - A Real Ale and Cider House The Cross, High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB Tel: 07931 692227 36 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

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VOLKSWAGEN AUDI SKODA & SEAT www.v-hubservices.co.uk

sales@v-hub.co.uk

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01684 214 444 07739 376 425

OPENING TIMES Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17.30 Saturday 08.30 - 16.30 SUNDAYS CLOSED Unit 8A, B & C BETA CLOSE,

TEWKESBURY

GL20 8SR

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TEWKESBURY AUCTION CENTRE

NEWTOWN W.I.

EDGWICKS YARD, NORTHWAY LANE GL20 8JG

GENERAL SALES EVERY MONDAY

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START 5.PM VIEWING FROM 3 PM

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Tewkesbury Bowling Club would like to thank Neil Minchew and Adam for removing the hedge to improve the Bowls Green.

The November meeting was our AGM, so had to carry out the business part before we could start our fun meeting.

Our President, Sylvia Taylor, decided to step down after 5 years. This last 18 months were very difficult for everyone, but she did a great job in keeping us all talking and making sure the more vulnerable members always had someone to talk to. We welcomed our new President, Esme Gedge.

After all the business was done, we had a good fun afternoon trying different beauty products from Tropic Skincare, it was great trying out all the different products. Felt thoroughly toned and moisturised, there was a really feel good factor about them as all the products were ethically sourced and manufactured in the UK. It was very encouraging to welcome 4 new members, and if you are interested in joining us contact Esme Gedge 01684 292067. We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 2pm at the Wheat Pieces Community Centre.

AUTOMOTIVE PAINT WORK • Media Blasting • • Vapour Blasting • • Industrial Paint Work • • Hydro Dipping • If you require any of these services then please contact us:

01684 437220 www.taylorssurfacefinishing.com @taylorssurfacefinishing

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.

OPEN

MONDAY-FRIDAY 9am-6.30pm & SATURDAY 9am-10.30am 31 Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5PD www.dragonvet.co.uk

01684 217 708 in affiliation with

OPEN SATURDAY 9AM-12 NOON Prestbury Park, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4SH

T: 01242 580324

24 HOUR EMERGENCY ~ 01242 522022 38 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

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A Blue Christmas

Outdoor Stoves and Firepits - a gamechanger for outdoor living fans!

The Chesney Outdoor Range is a high performance dual-function outdoor Stove Heater and BBQ, no installation needed.

Gather your friends to sit around the multi-functional Kadai Firepit, bringing warmth to outdoor entertaining.

01242 680076 Unit 18-19 Knightsbridge Business Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9TA Email: fireplacegallery@hotmail.com

WWW.FIREPLACEGALLERYFIRES.CO.UK

We have become accustomed to different colours signifying particular events; the red carpet rolled out for the glitz and glamour of the Oscars or the environmentally green for the COP26 conference in Glasgow.

For many of us, this Christmas could be identified as a ‘blue’ Christmas, as in ‘I’m feeling blue’..

Whilst the children always remind us of the joy and hopeful anticipation that Christmas brings, there will be those of us who are dealing with the death of a loved one. Whether it is due to COVID or not, the pain of bereavement can weigh heavily upon us.

In the hit musical, ‘Les Misérables’, Marius, after the failed attempt at an uprising, revisits the now deserted cafe where he and his friends used to meet and talk of revolution. Now, as only he is left and all his friends have perished, he sings the heart wrenching song, ‘Empty Chairs and Empty Tables’.

There’s a grief that can’t be spoken There’s a pain goes on and on Empty chairs and empty tables Now my friends are dead and gone The raw emotion of that song resonates with many of us who feel that ache of loss.

Yet the message of Christmas reminds us that God is not detached or removed from our pain. In the birth of Jesus, we have a God who fully enters into our experience of loss, who himself wept at the grave of his friend, Lazarus and therefore is able to understand the tears of grief ‘that can’t be spoken’. Here in is our

Hope.

Many churches, including our own, hold a memorial service (a ‘blue’ Christmas service) where we don’t have to pretend to be full of the joys of Christmas, but can be who we are at this time, acknowledge our grief and find some comfort in the message of peace and hope.

Do visit the websites of the different churches to find out more about Christmas Services.

By Stephen Walker Vicar: Holy Trinity Church, Tewkesbury www.trinitytewkesbury.org.uk

Stephen and Sharon

SENSATIONAL SANDSTONE OFFERS

RAJ GREEN LIGHT GREY AUTUMN £26.99m2 +VAT

YELLOW LIMESTONE £26.99m2 +VAT

A warm welcome awaits at Badham Pharmacy, Priors Park

SENSATIONAL INDIAN SANDSTONE PAVING AUTUMN, RAJ AND LIGHT GREY

ARTIFICIAL LAWN SUPPLIED

From £13-50m2 +VAT

PRESSURE TREATED SHEDS 6’x4’, 7’x5’, 8’x6’, 10’x8’ From £525.00 inc VAT

EXTERNAL PORCELAIN PAVING FOSSIL MINT EFFECT PORCELAIN £37m2 +VAT

RASSA GREY PORCELAIN £30m2 +VAT

LONDON BEIGE PORCELAIN £30m2 +VAT

Your Number One supplier of TREATED TIMBER PAVING • FENCING • CONCRETE POSTS • TURF • SAND & GRAVEL

The Old Sawmill, Evesham Rd, Toddington GL54 5DF

01242 620 000 email: cotswoldvalesupplies@hotmail.co.uk www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk

BADHAMS

WE COME TO YOU

WE WILL COLLECT AND DELIVER YOUR PRESCRIPTION FREE OF CHARGE Just bring your prescription to our branch and we will have it ready for collection or delivery to your home within two working days!

We also make and deliver dosette trays

WE ALWAYS HAVE LOTS OF GREAT OFFERS IN STORE NEW GREAT SELECTION OF QUALITY £1 LINES Opening hours Mon-Fri 8.30am to 5.30pm (closed 1pm-2pm) Sat Closed

Badhams Pharmacy 105 Queens Road, Priors Park, Tewkesbury

01684 290659

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Bespoke, luxury bathrooms designed around you

Fully project-managed in-house bathroom installations Professional stress free service with a specialist bathroom installer • Modern & Traditional bathroom suites • Shower installations • Tiling/Paneling • Karndean flooring • All electrics certified

Free survey and quotation service available Supply only if required Struggling to get in the bath?

We offer zero rated VAT for mobility impaired

01242 678 080 info@blissfulbathrooms.co.uk www.blissfulbathrooms.co.uk

Open Tues - Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat: 10am - 3pm

Visit our showroom at: 3 The Green, Station Road Woodmancote, Cheltenham Gloucester GL52 9HR View our testimonials on Best of Cheltenham TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 41

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r o n a M l l i h s p u G

e r y a F s a m t s i r Ch served in the main pub and restaurant throughout December

Two courses Three courses

LUNCH £18.95 £23.95

DINNER £21.95 £24.95

all options include tea or coffee, mince pies and christmas cracker pre booked pre order menu

Starters Leek & Potato Soup (v) (g) Chicken liver parfait with mixed leaf & red onion marmalade (g) Smoked salmon & Atlantic prawns in a marie rose sauce with mixed leaf All served with rustic bread

Main Course Roasted breast of local turkey, roast potatoes, mixed vegetables, pigs in blankets, cranberry stuffing & red wine jus (g) Pan fried Scottish salmon, new potatoes, mixed vegetables & provencale sauce (g) Slow roasted blade of beef, creamed potatoes, mixed vegetables & bordeaux jus (g) Baked mixed bean enchilada, new potatoes & dressed mixed salad (v)

Dessert Soft lemon meringue roulade with red berry coulis Salted caramel & chocolate pot with sugar curl (g) Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy créme anglaise (g) Selection of three local cheeses biscuit selection & chutney (v) a £1.50 supplement applies to the cheese board

Tea or coffee served with mince pies

CALL 01684 292278 EMAIL INFO@GUPSHILLMANOR.COM

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TEWKESBURY FLOWER CLUB Our Christmas demonstration is being held on Tuesday 14th December our demonstrator is Katherine Kear and the title of her demonstration is “The Twelve Days”.

We meet at Bushley Village Hall, doors open at 2.30 and the meeting starts at 3.00.

Visitors are very welcome to join us, for an enjoyable festive afternoon, watching an expert arrange beautiful flowers, entrance is £6

Get your new boiler from only £1,795 +VAT or

£9.99

+VAT

per month*

Boiler Servicing

£60 + VAT

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OSTEOPATHY ADVICE with Katie Hogg, Two Rivers Osteopathy

JOINTS AND COLD WEATHER I know I have written about the affects of the cold weather on joints before, but it is a common comment at our practice.

The truth of the matter is there is limited sci-

entific proof that the cold weather actually makes a difference to the conformation of the joint.

The difference is in

our own habits. In winter we tend to be inside more, swapping our outdoor activities for more sedentary activities. In the colder weather we also wear more clothing which has a naturally restricting effect on movement and can result in a very slight change in gait. These slight changes have an accumulative effect and can result in reduced range of movement on certain joints.

If you do not have an underlying condition it is unlikely that this will cause much of a problem. However, if you have an underlying condition such as arthritis this can be irritated by the lack of full range of movement of the joint.

Arthritic joints respond well to movement, good blood flow and loose healthy muscles. If you hold yourself tensely due to the cold this can create tightening of the muscle resulting in an approximation of the joints. This too will limit the movement of the joints.

So, as the weather gets colder, try to keep warm but not restricted with movement and keep the activity levels up. Even if that means small movements in a chair or gentle walking round a garden.

All our practitioners at Two Rivers Osteopathy are highly qualified to be able to help manage joint pain and provide advice and support.

Katie, Kat and Philippa look forward to sharing their knowledge.

Friendly, professional, and highly qualified medical advice for all your joint and muscular ailments.

Registered Osteopathic practitioners

Katie Hogg and Kat Hill Katie Hogg

01684 294777

By Katie Hogg T. 01684 294777

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One of the members of Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club gave an enlightening talk about his experiences as an academic, working at Queen’s University Belfast between 1974 and 1977 as an Englishman living there at the height of the Troubles.

In his talk, Paul Miller covered the uneasy history of Ireland and the deeply held antagonism between Catholics and Protestants, particularly following partition in 1921 and specifically in Belfast.

Most of us who are old enough remember many of the atrocities and hatred we witnessed almost every night on the television news in the 1970’s,

Probus Club experiences war-torn Belfast but Paul described some of his own firsthand experiences which seem shocking to those of us who felt relatively safe here in Britain.

For instance, on one occasion he and some colleagues were stopped in their car in darkness at gunpoint, fortunately by a pro-British group who eventually allowed them to proceed to their destination.

On a lighter note, we had two rather quirky talks both presented by raconteurs (and both called David!) who entertained us on different subjects without using any visual aids.

Stimulate your retirement at

First, David Terry posed the question “Are we alone in the Universe”? Despite his failing sight and being very hard of hearing David held our attention for the whole morning. I’m not sure he answered his own question but it was very entertaining!

Later in the month David Howe produced much laughter and reminiscences giving us an insight into the long careers of Frank Muir and Denis Norden who produced hundreds of comedy scripts for many radio shows in the 1940’s and 50’s.

We in Probus Club always try to create an eclectic programme of talks to appeal to most

the English in the 19th century.

If you are a retired professional or business man and you would like to come along to one or more of our meetings, please visit our web-

interests. For example, we had Tim Houlding telling us about the Bentley racing cars of the 1920’s, looking at the history and development of the cars and their racing successes and the curator of Tewkesbury’s John Moore Museum, Simon Lawton told us of the long history of our local museum and its exhibits.

With a different Irish theme, another of our own members Roger Emmet presented us with many little-known historical facts about Ireland and in particular Anne Devlin, who Roger described as the most loyal Republican heroine after her courageous opposition to

TEWKESBURY& BREDON HILL PROBUS CLUB

site at www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/ or contact our Secretary Steve Tucker on 07803 907243.

Our December programme is featured in this edition of Tewkesbury Direct.

by Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club

TEWKESBURY TOWN BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT Saturday 4th December 7.30pm at the Roses Theatre Tickets available now from the Roses Theatre Box Office

T. 01684 295074 www.rosestheatre.org (search Town Band) Adults £15 / Concessions £13 / Age 3-15 only £3

SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY CHRISTMAS TREES, GROWN LOCALLY ON OUR OWN FARM, WITH A REDUCED CARBON FOOTPRINT

The 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 DECEMBER 7 December - Hidden but fascinating Tewkesbury (with John Dixon) 14 December - Vision, perception and optical illusions (with Howard Robinson) 21 December - Christmas Party 28 December - 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 01684 274258 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/

TRADITIONAL SPRUCE & NEEDLE RETAINING NORDMANS FROM 3-18 FT

SPECIALISTS IN ARTIFICIAL GRASS & DRIVEWAYS

ALSO SUPPLYING POT GROWN CHRISTMAS TREES

BLOCK PAVING • TARMAC • GRAVEL • ARTIFICIAL GRASS

OPENING HOURS: OPEN DAILY FROM SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 10:00AM - 5:30PM JUST 3 MILES FROM TEWKESBURY

01242 898398 07967 713488

Grass_scape@hotmail.com

www.GrassScape.co.uk

FRESHLY CUT TO LAST LONGER

BRING THE CHILDREN TO SEE THE CALVES

PAMINGTON TEWKESBURY, GL20 8LX (JUST OFF THE A46 / B4079 TURN OFF AT THE ASTON CROSS TRAFFIC LIGHTS TEL: 07979 623638

Manor Farm • Stoke Road • Cheltenham • GL52 7RY TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 47

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MOTORHOME & CARAVAN BODY REPAIRS

• Accident Repairs • Caravan Repairs • Motorhome Repairs • Commercial Vehicle Repair & Re-Spray • Spray Painting, Welding & Customisation • Insurance & Private Work Undertaken

01684 295353 01452 724949 (24 hours)

Unit 3 Highfield Business Park Tewkesbury Road, Deerhurst GL19 4BP Mobile: 07876 154864 Email: pj.lane@hotmail.co.uk PJ Lane Car Body Repairs

MITTON W.I. November was the AGM and new members were elected to our committee to help with finance and admin.

Carol and Kez have stepped down, and we thank them for all the hard work they have put in to keep Mitton WI going. When all the business had been finalised, a beetle drive ensued. A lot of fun had by all.

December is our Christmas Party with entertainment and our Christmas Hat/ Fascinator competition, so get designing ladies, we expect some fantastic entries.

We are also looking forward to 2022 with a very varied programme.

Mitton W.I now meets at The Baptist Church in Station Road. Meetings start at 7.30pm, all welcome so please come along and join us.

If you would like further information please ring 07846 453523 or MittonWI@gmail.com.

@LaneBodyRepairs

EXPLORING THE ALLEYWAYS OF TEWKESBURY Guided walks will take place on Sunday December 12th & Sunday January 2nd All walks start from the bottom of Warder’s Alley (beside M&Co) at 2.30pm, and last about 2 hours. Every walk is different, and cost is £2.50, towards the Museum and the Alleycat project.

www.pjlanebodyrepairs.co.uk

Fantastic New Products for your Perfect Floor “We now stock the brilliant Plush Walk memory foam underlay underlay, there is nothing like it.

We also have the latest felt backed ‘No Rip’ vinyls for warmer floors. Make the best of your home and call us now” ~ RICK WESTWOOD ~

Experienced flooring fitter required please call Rick on 07785 562170

Carpets Direct has been trading for over thirty years, serving Tewkesbury and surrounding areas.

Special roll lines of carpets direct from manufacturer always in stock and roll lines of vinyl flooring.

Approved fitters of Karndean Design Flooring.

No sub contract fitters used, so no job is rushed, just happy customers.

We can uplift and dispose of old carpets and take care of furniture, all carpets vacuumed and rubbish cleared away.

Showroom open every Friday for viewings, or by appointment in the week when suits you.

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

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.

Due to continued growth, we are currently seeking a qualified heating engineer, ideally with gas or oil experience.

Electrical knowledge would be a useful advantage. We install air source heat pumps, so a knowledge of these would also be advantageous However, if you are practical and willing to learn, training would be given to expand your skills.

Very competitive salary.

Please call 01386 293556 or email info@countyboilers.co.uk

✓ WARM ✓ EFFICIENT ✓ GREEN FIT A WORCESTER BOSCH BOILER FOR OIL AND GAS AND TICK THE BOXES GREENSTAR HEATSLAVE II

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 ■ All engineers emplyed by

✓ UK’s most popular oil combi boiler ✓ For small, medium and large homes ✓ Fills a kitchen sink in 22 seconds

✓ 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

company and all C.R.B. checked

■ Hundreds of Worcester boilers

installed locally, both oil and gas ■ Approved insurance works

carried out ■ Based in Tewkesbury with

offices in Northway ■ 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 DIRECT - 49

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Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 50

THE TEWKESBURY DIRECT Quick Crossword

Across 1 - Prize (5) 4 - More than two (7) 7 - Bitterly pungent (5) 8 - Passive (8) 9 - Speak in public without preparation (2-3) 11 - Setting fire to (8) 15 - Large game bird (8) 17 - From the capital of Italy (5) 19 - Chord played in rapid succession (8) 20 - Wild and untamed (5) 21 - Cheese on toast (7) 22 - Type of confection (5)

CAR MOT £40 BIKE MOT £25 Even better deals on testing when combined with our service packages

*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

We aim to service/repair your vehicle to the highest standard at the lowest price

MOT Testing Class 4 Same Day Appointments Free Re-Test (within 10 working days)

COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE ESTABLISHED OVER TEN YEARS

UNIT 2, CYMBIO BUSINESS CENTRE (NEXT TO OLD CAR AUCTION SITE)

NORTHWAY LANE, TEWKESBURY GL20 8JG

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Down 1 - Skilled mechanic in the armed forces (9) 2 - Reaches (7) 3 - Prescribe (7) 4 - Havens (anag) (6) 5 - Encrypt (6) 6 - Excuse or pretext (5) 10 - Shed for vessels by a river (9) 12 - Become less intense (4,3) 13 - Severely damaged by crushing (7) 14 - Where a car is stored (6) 16 - Large wasp (6) 18 - Eg Mozart's Don Giovanni (5) Solution on Back Page

Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 51

BUILDING SERVICES

BATHROOMS

• Plastering and Rendering • Carpentry • Tiling • Roofing • Renovations • Kitchens • Refurbishments • Bathrooms and Showers • Disability Bathrooms/Wetrooms • New Builds and Extensions • General Building • Property Maintenance

BLINDS & CURTAINS TEWKESBURY BLINDS & CURTAINS

Unit 8 Homedowns Business Park Homedowns, Tewkesbury GL20 7BQ Email: leigh.smallshaw@talktalk.net

Tel: 01684 294031 Mobile: 07713 162577 www.jlsmallshaw.co.uk

• PERFECT FIT BLINDS • ROLLER • PLEATED • VENETIAN • VERTICAL • WOODSLAT • DUO • ROMAN • SMART RISE • SMART CORD • ELECTRIC

01684 296880

www.tewkesburyblinds.co.uk • FREE FITTING • FREE MEASURING

HANDCRAFTED FAUXWOOD SHUTTERS DOMESTIC

COMMERCIAL

New - Curtains NEW RANGE NOW AVAILABLE

Conservatory Blinds PLUS•

Vertical • Roller • Roman • Venetian • Wooden

MEASURED AND FITTED FREE Full range of Velux blinds

TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 51

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COMPUTER SERVICES

BUILDING SERVICES

A. G. BONIFACE & SONS LTD BUILDING CONTRACTORS SPECIALISTS IN DISABLED BATHROOMS & SHOWERS All types of domestic and commercial building including electrical and mechanical work

Tel 01684 295754 Unit G4 Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury

To advertise call 01242 621346 email tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com or visit our website www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

CARPENTRY

www.agbonifaceandsonsltd.co.uk

HARTELL NB CONSTRUCTION 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

Carpentry, Joinery & Property Maintenance 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 on Facebook

CLEANING SERVICES 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 20 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 • EXTENSIONS ROOFING • RESTORATION KITCHEN FITTING • MAINTENANCE Mythe Construction Limited Mythe Crest, Mythe Road Tewkesbury GL20 6EB

Taking care of your premises since 1986 Office cleaning Window cleaning High level gutter cleaning Environmental cleaning Ducting Washroom services Graffiti removal Carpet and upholstery cleaning Commercial kitchen cleaning Specialist cleaning chemicals and supplies Hard floor restoration specialists Croft Farm, Bredon’s Hardwick,Tewkesbury GL20 7EE

Call 01684 773254 www.cwgroup.co.uk info@cwgroup.co.uk

Tel/Fax: 01684 290707 Mobile: 07826 948909

CARPENTRY DRAINAGE

MAINTENANCE

All aspects of first and second fit carpentry • Kitchen fitting • Window and door installations • Fitted wardrobes • Flooring • Home renovations Friendly, local and reliable service Over 10 years experience • Free quotations

Call James on 07496 686470 or email bowerscarpentry@gmail.com 52 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

Professional Cleaning Maintenance Service

For both interior and exterior works Exterior: Driveways / Patios / Tarmac and concrete areas / Decking / Gutter vacuum Interior: Professional deep clean - Carpets / Mattresses / Sofas Contact: Mark Albutt

Tel: 01684 273086 Mob: 07821 543593 Email: xtremem@yahoo.com Fully Insured

• Domestic/commercial blockages • Waste pipe unblocking • CCTV inspection/surveys • Environmental surveys • Drain installation, maintenance and repair • Septic tank installation and repair • Now NRSWA qualified 24 Hour Emergency Call Out Based in Bredon

Tel: 01684 438260 Email: williamrosedrains@outlook.com

Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 53

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

FLATPACK FURNITURE ASSEMBLY

A. G. BONIFACE & SONS LTD

FLATPAK-JAK

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Rewires, extra sockets, lighting, consumer units All areas of electrical work

Tel 01684 295754 Unit G4 Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury www.agbonifaceandsonsltd.co.uk

Flat Pack Furniture Assembly From as little as

£25.00 We assemble furniture from top suppliers: Wayfair, Argos, IKEA, Habitat and many other retailers

01684 274078 07788 164006

PAINTING & DECORATING

TILING & DECORATING m 07761 503818 t 01452 780087 e andyedwardsdecorator @outlook.com

Find us on Facebook

PLASTERING

Email flatpakjak@btinternet.com

Tewkesbury/Cheltenham/Gloucestershire-based

PAINTING & DECORATING

DEDICATED PLASTERING PROFESSIONALS

• Plastering • Screeding • Ceilings • Partitions • Building Alterations • Rendering • Drywall etc • External Coatings • Free Quotes

01905 453417 or

07889 200177

www ajbplastering.co.uk

TRADITIONAL PLASTERER 20 years experience Clean, tidy, reliable service

GARDENING& LANDSCAPING

All aspects of plastering and associated works undertaken For friendly and honest advice on your requirements Call Chris on 07970 883641

PLUMBING & HEATING

Covering all aspects of Painting and Decorating Services Including: • Residential/Commercial and Lettings• Internal/Exterior • Wallpapering • Wallpaper and Paint Stripping • Damp Inspections and Treatments • Helping Hands Service • Property Snagging Inspections Contact: Dan Bunt • 07410 114066 • walltofloor.com

HOUSE CLEARANCE & REMOVALS

To advertise call 01242 621346 email tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com or visit www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 53

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PLUMBING & HEATING

SATELLITE & AERIAL INSTALLATION

Mike Spearing

A.J. CROMWELL

Heating Ltd

Heating Systems. Boiler Replacements. LPG. Oil. Breakdowns. Servicing. Unvented.

General Plumbing. Bathrooms. Tiling.

Under Floor Heating. Power Flushing.

To advertise call 01242 621346 email tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com or visit our website www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

Over 18 years experience in the trade including working as a Service Engineer for TOP boiler manufacturing company Worcester Bosch

ROOFING

Up to 10 Years Guarantee on selected boilers.

Full Public Liability Insurance.

Gas Safe and Oftec Registered

Premier Roofing Services

01684 291622 • 07786 442500 www.mikespearingheating.co.uk

R L HOLLEY PLUMBING & HEATING

All aspects of roofing work undertaken and completed to industry standards by professional tradesmen

Office:

We offer a comprehensive project timeline from start to finish and guarantee a competitive price

Aerial & Satellite Installations Multi Point Systems Digital Specialists Freeview and Sky TV

01684 293480 The Workshop, Red Lane Tewkesbury, Glos

SECURITY SYSTEMS

FREEMAN

Providing roofing solutions across Gloucestershire.

Contact us for free no-obligation advice and quotations

ELECTRICAL/SECURITY INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC INSTALLATIONS SSAIB REGISTERED COMPANY Established 21 years BASED IN TEWKESBURY

(01684) 491802 07707 656487

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

Mobile: Email: enquires.prs@gmail.com

Phone: 01684 773783 Mobile: 07972 484197

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

REGISTER Licence No: 2337437 Reg No: 199878

SPECIALISING IN FLAT & PITCHED ROOFS

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

STOVES & CHIMNEYS

EPDM RUBBER & GRP FIBREGLASS All work completed with a 20 or 25 year Guarantee

FASCIAS & GUTTERING

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

CHIMNEY REPOINTING ROOF MAINTENANCE

• 24 Hour Assistance • General Repairs • Maintenance • Minor Development Work Undertaken

FREE QUOTATIONS

Ring THE CHIMNEY MAN now

Mobile: 07776 003678 Email: sd.roofing@outlook.com

Mobile 07801 700254

FULLY INSURED - C.I.T.B REGISTERED

01684 273538

Electrical - Carpentry - Plumbing “Flexibility Is Our Strength”

Chimney Sweep/Stove Liner Installer • No Mess • No Dust • No Fuss • Fully insured • Bird Cowls Fitted • Certificate Issued • Rotary Power Sweeping • Traditional Sweeping • Smoke Test Every Sweep SECRETARIAL SERVICES

Need Secretarial help?

Proof reading, office admin Typing manuscripts & reports

• Beauchamp Secretarial • m: 07791 305433 e: cs.spacie@gmail.com 54 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

Stoves Serviced and Repaired Carbon Monoxide Alarms Fitted

h 01684 296078 m 07718 605677 e ajschimneyservices@gmail.com

Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 55

SEWING,TAILORING & REPAIRS

COUNTRYSIDE EVENTS IN THE FESTIVE SEASON with Jack B. Walker COTSWOLD FARM PARK ENCHANTED LIGHT TRAIL: Lights will guide visitors on an enchanted stroll around the Farm Park after dark. See the rare breed animals settling down for the night. Kids can let off steam in the adventure barn too. Near

Service and Repair on all makes and models

01684 273667 07903 414735 leandaroberts@hotmail.com

Est. 1976

CLEARWELL CAVES: Meet santa underground in the Forest of Dean.

Truly special for young and old. Online booking now open at clearwellcaves.com

GARDENING MONTHLY with Tim Hoskins

JO FIGGETT SEWING & DRY CLEANING at Monarch Drycleaners 8 Mitton Way, Tewkesbury GL20 8AN

Chastleton House

• SEWING ALTERATIONS • REPAIRS • CURTAIN/BLIND MAKING • BRIDAL ALTERATIONS • HABERDASHERY

Other attractions are creating a bit of Christmas magic too, so here’s a run down of what there is to see and do within easy reach of Tewkesbury.

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 20

WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS

WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS MOST MAKES INCLUDING ARISTON AND HOTPOINT MOST LEADING MAKES FACTORY TRAINED ENGINEER OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

NO CALL OUT CHARGE COMPETITIVE RATES • FREE ESTIMATES FULLY GUARANTEED WORK

Guiting Power - booking essential www.cotswold farmpark.co.uk

COOKE R FRIDGES & S TOO

GERALD WILLIS DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE

Please call (07831) 433892

SUDELEY CASTLE: Former home of Queen Katherine Parr near Winchcombe. ‘Spectacle of Light’ from Friday 26th Nov until Thursday 30th December. See website sudeleycastle.co.uk CHASTLETON HOUSE CHRISTMAS: A Jacobean Christmas: experience the house dressed for the festive season as enjoyed by Chastleton’s first owner, Walter Jones. Saturday 27th November- Sunday 5th December 11am3pm. Last entry to the house 2.30pm. Near Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 0SU. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chastleton ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT : Fri 3rd, Sat 4th, Fri 10th, Sat 11th, Sun 12th and Fri 17th-Tues 21st December, 4pm-9.30pm.

Advance booking essential. See the national arboretum magnificent trees filled with illumination. Children can search for the lost reindeer too!

Near Tetbury - details www.forestryengland.uk

CROOME PARK: Capability Brown’s stunning landscape park near Pershore includes the Earl of Coventry’s former home, Croome Court. A winter wander trail and other events this festive season - see nationaltrust.org.uk/croome NEWARK PARK: Winter trails and Christmas wreath making workshops at the former Tudor Hunting Lodge near Wotton-under-Edge. www.nationaltrust.org.uk /newark COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK: One of the Cotswolds favourite family destinations since the 1970s.

Open year round except for Christmas day: for opening times see the website www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE STEAM RAILWAY: Blow away the cobwebs after Christmas with a ride on a steam or heritage diesel hauled train through glorious Cotswold scenery. Mince Pie specials run from 27th December until 3rd January, travelling from Winchcombe to Broadway. For travel times, tickets and further information, visit the website www.gwsr.com

WEBSITE DESIGN WINDOW & GLAZING SERVICES

UPTON GLASS & GLAZING LTD 24 HR EMERGENCY BOARDING AND RE-GLAZING SERVICE An efficient, friendly local business • Glass cut to size in our workshop • UPVC windows, doors and conservatories supplied and fitted • Greenhouse repairs • Same day replacement of broken glass • Shop fronts - same day replacement • Mirrors and shelves supplied and fitted • Replacement double glazed units • Secondary glazing • Police and insurance company approved FENSA approved

LET’S KEEP IT LOCAL! Please support Tewkesbury’s traders and retailers to ensure a bright future for our wonderful town

FOR ALL YOUR GLAZING REQUIREMENTS

Tel: 01684 591138 24 Hour: 07974 783472 The Workshop, 69a Old Street, Upton upon Severn, Worcs. WR8 0HN

www.uptonglassandglazing.co.uk

Houseplants Houseplants aren’t gardening! Well, they are in my opinion and to some people who live in flats or caravans or vans they may be their only chance to cultivate something.

I remember travelling in Morocco, with my future wife, when I was younger and we met two chaps travelling in a converted fire engine. Every time they stopped, one of them obsessively set up a little garden of pots of herbs and indoor plants and it was quite inspiring.

Houseplants seem to be the area that some people struggle with most and that’s because every input is controlled by us so there is more scope for mistakes. That also means there is a lot of scope for learning and we can do it in the warm.

The first point I like to remind people of is that plants don’t react to environmental stimuli like we do.

We can walk into a room and perceive it as being well-lit, because our eyes have adjusted.

Tim Hoskins Plants, conversely, take light as it comes. People can also react to temperature changes and draughts and we may not even notice them, but likewise, plants can’t react.

A good place to start is to find an easy plant like Zamioculcas/ZZ plant, Sansevieria, Tradescantia, Chlorophytum or Pelargonium.

Learn what conditions they like and find a spot for them. Be prepared to move them to find the perfect place. If you fancy more complicated plants, buy them from the same source so you can start to understand the retailers opinion of different growing conditions. As you build a collection, your knowledge will grow and you can be more adventurous. Don’t forget that the type and level of care will change through the year.

High summer means more warmth and light so probably more growth and probably more feed and water. Deep winter can mean cold or warm draughts bothering plants or central heating seriously drying them out, so you may need to move them or increase irrigation again.

Houseplants remind us that plants are individuals and different species have specific needs.

Good lessons to take back into the garden, I reckon.

TEWKESBURY DIRECT - 55

Tewkes Direct December 2021 29-56_Tewkes Direct April 23-44 24/11/2021 10:50 Page 56

A GOOD MEASURE SHOULD YOU NEED ONE - SIZES IN CM/MM

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Messiah at The Abbey

1 2 To contact us please call 01242 621346 or email tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com 3

©Tewkesbury Direct 2021. Published by Tewkesbury Direct, 3 Station Cottages, Toddington GL54 5DT. Designed, edited and produced for the publishers

by The Overbury Press and DF Creative.

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www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

ASHCHURCH TO TEWKESBURY RAILWAY DISPLAY and ILLUSTRATED TALK

Tewkesbury Abbey’s Schola Cantorum will give a performance of Handel’s Messiah on Saturday 18th December (7pm).

Conducted by Simon Bell (with the Bristol Ensemble) soloists will include Hannah Davey (soprano), Joanna Harries (alto), Richard Thesiger-Pratt (tenor) and Theo Perry (bass).

Tickets are prices at £15 and £20 and are available online from www.ticketsource.co.uk or from the Abbey Shop (Call 01684 856148).

by Ian Boskett, Chairman of Tewkesbury YMCA Railway Society

Saturday 22nd January 2022 at Tewkesbury Baptist Church Hall, Cotteswold Gardens/Station Road 5

Display from 2.00pm, talk starts at 5.30pm • Local railway items and photos on display • In aid of the Baptist Church Community Building Project Entry by donation • Refreshments

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THE QUICK CROSSWORDSolution 7

WINTER MOTORING

8

SERVICING

and

Classic Car and Bike Specialists

MOTs

Winter levels check including top-ups £25.00 inc VAT

TYRES, EXHAUSTS & BRAKES including FREE tyre and brake checks 9

CAR REPAIRS

and fault diagnostics

10

AIR-CONDITIONING

While-u-Wait MOTs £45.00 cars £29.00 bikes

Re-gassing

FREE Winter Motoring Checks FREE Courtesy Car or Collection & Delivery 11

Open:Mon-Fri 08.00-18.00 Saturday 08.30-12.30 Sun Closed

Free tea and coffee always on the go!

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01684 296999 www.twyninggarage.co.uk

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email: enquiries@twyninggarage.co.uk

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Main A38, Shuthonger, Tewkesbury GL20 6EH

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Servicing and Repairs

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Reproduction or replication of this puzzle in any format is strictly prohibited without prior permission from Clarity Media.

01684 850940 Open Saturday 9.00am-1.00pm Natton Lane, Ashchurch GL20 7BG Find us on Facebook