TAVERN TO FEATURE IN NEW FILM
a new movie,
been filmed at Tewkesbury’s
Drawn from the world of Charles Dickens, Fagin’s Rant was written and directed by Benjamin Timothy Gobey, and features actors Richard Ashton, Ewen Weatherburn and Daniel Taylor.
In this new work, Fagin, from Oliver Twist, is given a fresh twistfunnier, craftier and unlike anything you have seen before.
The Cross House Tavern provided the perfect location for filming.
“Laurence at The Cross House Tavern was incredibly accommodating,” said Benjamin Gobey.
“He opened the tavern for us at 5.00am and went out of his way to ensure that everything ran smoothly.
“What Laurence has done with the place, while preserving its original charm, is truly extraordinary.”
Richard Ashton, perhaps best know for his roles in The Fifth Element, Hellraiser and
Calendar Girls, takes the lead role as Fagin.
“What we’ve created has truly surpassed my expectations,” said Benjamin.
“Richard’s interpretation of Fagin is both sinister and refreshingly original.
“Daniel Taylor brings a chilling intensity to his portrayal of Bill Sikes in a flashback, while Ewen Weatherburn delivers a compelling performance as a landlord desperate
to escape Fagin’s grip.”
Benjamin Timothy Gobey outlined the inspiration for his new project.
“From an early age, I’ve been fascinated by the Victorian era and the works of Dickens and Doyle. I vividly remember being both captivated and terrified by Ron Moody’s portrayal of Fagin in Oliver! - a performance that left a lasting impression on me.”
Continued on Page 5
Richard Ashton in Fagin’s Rant, filmed inTewkesbury
The Caretaker by Ron Rash Paperback £9.99
‘The Caretaker’ is a very readable story based in North Carolina in the early 1950s when the Korean War was forcing the youth of America to be called up for military service.
This happens to Jacob Hampton soon after he has met Naomi and against his parents wishes, married her.
She is not what his wealthy parents envisaged for their only son and their only surviving child.
They disinherit him and even ostracise his wife who is pregnant when he is forced to enlist.
They had wanted him to marry Veronica, the daughter of another local businessman. Naomi, a cleaner and an outsider was certainly not in their plans for their son.
Jacob has a lifelong friend, Blackburn Gant, who is facially deformed after childhood polio but is a strong and able young man who works alone looking after the local cemetery; a job that suits his solitary nature.
Blackburn was bullied at school and then his parents, after making sure he had a secure job, left for Florida. So he is a loner, Jacob his only true friend, even being childhood blood-brothers.
A strong bond binds then together and it is to Blackburn that Jacob turns to help support Naomi in his absence as his parents refuse. A task Blackburn fulfills with commitment and dedication.
Jacob's time in Korea is recounted so we experience his military service and what befalls him ahead of his eventual return to the States.
The theme of the book is an unfolding life shattering deception which has dramatic implications on Naomi's life, Annie Mae, her baby girl, Blackburn and Jacob himself.
The setting in North Carolina, Blowing Rock, is the centre of the story though Blackburn does make excursions to Tennessee, after Naomi moved back there to live with her widowed father, a proud hardworking farmer.
He is one of several other minor characters who enrich the storyline.
This novel is well written, Ron Rash is a much respected American author who shows his skills as we read through how the deception unfolds.
To say more would spoil the outcome.
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson
Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
ALL ABOARD THE MINCE PIE SPECIALS!
Why not embark on a magical journey this holiday season with the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Mince Pie Special?
Climb aboard our beautifully restored vintage steam train and experience the charm of a bygone era, combined with the festive spirit that will warm your heart. As you step into a meticulously preserved carriage, you'll be transported back in time to an age of elegance and grace.
As you glide through picturesque landscapes, indulge in a mince pie and hot drink from our buffet or one of the station cafés. Trains runs until 2nd January. To book, visit www.gwsr.com
Newtown WI deck the tables for Christmas
Fir and food and fun were the order of the day for the WI party in December.
First the fir - and then the holly - and a cornucopia of flowers, baubles, fir cones and such, gifted and guided by Chris A, to build table centrepieces, all beautifully individually crafted, as one would expect of our creative crowd.
Then the festive food, followed by an equally festive quiz from Chris
M, and then the raffle and the winners of Most Unusual Bauble, run by Esme, who had also generously brought a beautiful bauble gift for each member to take home.
If you would like to be
part of our welcoming group, meeting at 2.00 pm at the Wheatpieces Community Centre on the second Wednesday of each month, please contact Julie on 01684 301267 or end an email to PullenJ53@sky.com
Celebrating Christmas at Newtown WI
Tewkesbury’s newest Luxury Dog grooming Salon, Barking Beauties, has only been open since September, and has been delighting dogs and owners from around the area.
Owner Freya Newman, is a skilled groomer with over four years experience, and offers one to one dog grooming, which can include, hand stripping, full grooms, baths and brushes, nail trims, ultrasonic teeth cleans, Puppy Pampers and Spa pampers, in a relaxed salon environment.
Freya takes great care in her work, to ensure the best results and a happy pet.
We include some recent photographs of dogs that persuaded their owners for a treatment, the results speak for themselves.
In January, Freya has a special offer, a free spa package for a first groom, for bookings made then.
You can find, Barking Beauties at 62 Barton Street, with plenty of free parking nearby.
To find out more, call 07845 201992 or click on to www.barkingbeautiesdoggrooming. biz
m Freya Newman
‘An incredible journey’
“Years later, as I began my career interviewing actors, I had the pleasure of speaking with Richard Ashton,” Benjamin continues.
“During our conversation, he shared his dream of playing Fagin, saying, “You might get funding for a huge series in five years, and because we’ve sat here today, you might think of me.” That moment stayed with me and eventually inspired me to write a short film reimagining Fagin, with Richard in mind.
“This project has been an incredible journey, and I am excited to present a new perspective on one of Dickens’ most iconic characters.
“I believe this story will both haunt and captivate audiences.
“The film is set to hit festivals in 2025, and there will be a public screening scheduled for the New Year, which will include a question and answer session with the cast and myself.”
You can discover more about the film by following Gobey Productions on Facebook.
The award-winning Cross House Tavern is at 108 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5AB.
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Daniel Taylor as Bill Sikes (left) and Ewen Weatherburn as the Landlord in Fagin’s Rant - filmed at Tewkesbury’s Cross House Tavern (Photos: Leszek Ciesiólka)
Fagin’s Rant in production at The Cross House Tavern
The community of Jeynes Row, put on a Christmas lights Spectacular this year.
The switch on took place on Saturday 30th December and was a delight to the assembled crowd of over 200 people.
Overhead lights united illuminated displays on the houses , whilst a display of low noise fireworks lit the higher skies.
Live Music too was provided by duo Heather and Charlie and traditional Choral singing was provided by the ever popular, Tewkesbury Pub Singers.
The event was raising money for Sara, the water search and rescue Charity, that have a base at the nearby firestation.
Well done to all concerned, it brought Joy and fun to those who were there.
New book records Forest’s mining heritage
Grandfather and Great Grandfather all being colliers in the local pits.
Having traded for
years,
Weekdays 7.30am-5pm Sat 8am-12noon SIX DAYS A
Gloucestershire writer Dave Organ has published a new book which traces the history of those who lived, worked and died harvesting the rich minerals of iron ore, ochre pigments, coal and the great oaks of the Forest of Dean. ‘Pit Stop’ covers the Free-miners Charter and the struggle of the Commoners for their rights and privileges, the rise of the Unions, especially the Forest of Dean Miners’ Association originally instigated by Tim Mountjoy.
Also included are the local men and politicians who shaped the history of the Forest of Dean such as Sir John Wintour, David Mushet, Robert Forrester Mushet, Warren James, Sir Charles Dilke, George Rowlinson, Jack Williams, David R. Organ and many others.
Other topics include the South Wales Cambrian Combine strike, the Tonypandy riots, the birth of the Labour Party, World War I, the Comb-out of Forest of Dean miners to fight at the Front - plus the Union Pit Disaster in the Bixslade valley near Parkend, as well as the Lockouts and Strikes of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.
Local author Dave Organ is himself a product of the Forest of Dean, both his father,
Dave Organ
On leaving school at 16, Dave entered into an engineering apprenticeship at a Gloucester aircraft factory but when that closed, he transferred to a local factory in Whitecroft.
He later took a leap of faith and joined the Motor Trade, eventually running his own business for over 25 years until his retirement in 2009.
Dave’s passion since being an A.T.C. cadet at school has been in Aviation of one sort or another, inevitably gain-
ing his Private Pilot’s Licence in 1971 and which he still holds today.
Since retirement Dave has indulged himself in Family History, Photography, Aviation and of course Local History –which prompted the eventual production of ‘Pit Stop.’
The book had its official launch at the Dean Heritage Centre at the end of November. It is available in both hardback and softback formats, extends to 462 pages and includes 113 illustrations.
‘Pit Stop’ is now om sale in Tewkesbury at Alison’s Bookshop, 138/139 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5JR. 01684 274600.
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Stimulate Your Retirement At Tewkesbury & Bredon Hill Probus Club
Probus Club offers retired and semi-retired professional and business men the opportunity to enrich retirement by joining like-minded people for congenial conversation, sharing experiences, listening to a wide variety of interesting speakers and occasional visits to places of interest.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN JANUARY:
7 Jan - Festive lunch
14 Jan - Harry Ferguson of tractor fame (with John Macartney)
21 Jan - Keeping safe online (with Martin Keyte)
28 Jan - John Nevil Maskelyne (with Andy Meller)
Meetings are held at 10.15 a.m. in Bredon Village Hall. Every interested person will receive a very warm welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Steve Tucker on 07803 907243 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/
Shaun Taylor –Approved Buyer
Local Musician and Producer, Ross Sipek, Launches, “rossknowledge_” on Instagram
Ross, a DJ and former pupil of Tewkesbury High School, has a really strong passion for music.
Ross says “Ever since I was young, I wore my headphones, listening to all types of music. I started DJing at a couple of clubs in Cheltenham (Under the Prom and Coco), and at Lakefest 2022. However I drifted more into music production and found it more satisfying creating my own projects. These include a full song with al-
bum cover artwork and a music video to go with it.
“I’ve recently started another channel on my Instagram page called “rossknowledge_” which I really enjoy, even more than my own music I do. My goal is to hopefully inspire, motivate and help other people find a better purpose in life with the channel. My main channel is “rosssi-
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m Ross Sipek
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OUT AND ABOUT with Jack B. Walker
THE LONGEST YARN AT TEWKESBURY
ABBEY: Until 9th January, 9.30am3.45pm. 80 displays, each a metre in length, depicting the historic D-Day Landings. Over 180 knitters from all over the world contributed to this uniqueproject. For details see visittewkesbury.info
ICE SKATING IN CHELTENHAM: Until Sunday 5th January. All-weather skating rink in Imperial Gardens, behind the Town Hall. Details from visitcheltenham.com
ICE SKATING AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS: Until Sunday 5th January, 10am-5pm. Outdoor Ice Rink at Gloucester Quays Outlet Centre, GL1 5SF. Book tickets online at gloucesterquays.co.uk
PAINSWICK ROCOCO GARDEN: The Enchanted Garden By Night - until Thursday 2nd January. Painswick’s famous Rococo Garden is transformed as night falls with an enchanting display of twinkling lights. The famous snowdrop season will start soon too! Rococo Garden, Painswick GL6 6TH Details and tickets from rococogarden.org.uk
MINCE PIE SPECIALS AT THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE
STEAM RAILWAY: Until 2nd January, 10am-5pm. Enjoy a mince pie and a hot drink from the buffet on the award-winning railway through the Cotswolds, which runs from Broadway to Cheltenham Racecourse. For more details and to book tickets go to www.gwsr.com
AFTERNOON STROLLS AROUND THE ALLEYWAYS: Sundays 12th and 26th January, 2.30pm. Explore the alleys, lanes and courts for which Tewkesbury is famous. £2.50 per person. Meet at Warder’s Alley in the High Street. GL20 5BB.
COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK:
Open every day from 10am until 6pm (last admission 4pm). Park sometimes closes in bad weather - check website before travelling.
Cotswold Wildlife Park is now one of the UK’s largest zoological collec-
tions set in the beautiful gardens and grounds of Bradwell Grove, just sout of BurfordOX18 4JP. More details at www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
COLESBOURNE SNOWDROP OPEN DAYS: Every weekend from 25/26 January until 22/23 February, 1pm to 4pm. The gardens close at 4.30pm. Around 10 acres of formal snowdrop walks around the house and lake. Widely recognised as one of the finest places in England to see carpets of snowdrops. Advance booking is not essential. Colesbourne Gardens, Colesbourne GL53 9NP. See website for updates and more information colesbournegardens.org. uk
TEWKESBURY WINTER ALES FESTIVAL: Friday 6thSunday 8th February. At the Watson Hall, Barton Street, GL20 5PX. Details and tickets from tewkesbury.camra.org.uk
“…your
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Mel, Lind & Clare
“Your
Mr
Me y Christmas and Happy New Year!
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Hi, I’m Julie and I’m an independent Travel agent based near Bredon and have worked in the travel industry for over 30 years.
As well as devising exciting, bespoke itineraries, romantic honeymoons, action-packed multi destination holidays and handling last minute business travel arrangements. I also work with a travel partner who is a cruise specialist of over 30 years. I don’t think there is a cruise ship he hasn’t travelled on or visited!
For 10 years I organised and led supporters tours to various international sporting events including rugby, cricket, horseracing, tennis and golf, and have travelled extensively to the Far East, Hong Kong, USA, Australia, New Zealand and across Europe.
Without doubt, travel is my passion in life and I am delighted to be working as an independent travel counsellor. I am able to offer you the complete package using our award winning technology to create your tailor made holiday as I have access to hundreds of suppliers offering amazing deals. All bookings are 100% financially protected giving you complete peace of mind.
Whatever your reason for travel, my aim is to provide you with an ex-
ceptional experience.
So next time you are considering your travel for business or leisure, instead of trawling the internet or high street come and talk to a genuine travel enthusiast and professional who will deliver true value for money and efficiently organise every aspect of your journey. With complete peace of mind, and safe in the knowledge that I provide a 24/7 service to care for any needs you may have along the way, you will be free to really enjoy the travel experience ahead.
Am very happy to visit you at home to chat over your holiday requirements. I aim to build a trusting relationship with my customers
and offer a service that I am proud of. Most of my business is from repeat customers.
As I am home based I am available at a time to suit you, even if outside normal working hours. From the moment you make contact until you return home after your holiday. Contact me for your free, no obligation quote. Look forward to meeting you!
m Julie Caro
Another good year for Probus Club
As 2024 came to an end Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club rounded off the year with another excellent selection of wide-ranging subjects provided by our speakers.
Duncan Cadbury’s topic was George Cadbury and the Bournville Village Trust and as part of the world-famous chocolate family Duncan was well-qualified to introduce this subject. Duncan’s great-grandfather John Cadbury founded the company in 1824 originally selling tea and as the company developed, his sons Richard and George came into the business.
Duncan’s talk was specifically about George Cadbury, particularly how George’s interest in his later years moved into philanthropy, believing that well housed, well fed employees would be an asset to the company.
This led to the construction of the Bournville village and Duncan described how Bournville has expanded over the years and how it is the Midlands’ longest serving independent charitable trust providing social housing with an excellent quality of life for their residents.
In total contrast, Terry Ransome gave us a fascinating talk about the launch of the Beagle 2 Mars lander from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in 2003.
Terry worked for various companies in the aerospace industry eventually being personally involved with the launch of Beagle 2 with the European Space Agency.
He described his journey to Kazakhstan accompanying the Beagle lander and the preparations and ultimate launch into space and its flight to Mars.
Unfortunately just one
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component failed when it landed on Mars and the team lost communication. It was discovered 11 years later when a subsequent orbiter photographing the planet identified Beagle 2 on the surface.
By definition, Probus Club members are of a
mature age and we try to introduce some topics which will help them manage the onset of older years.
There was a lot of interest in a talk from two speakers from the Gloucestershire Older Drivers Forum which helped us recognise how
advancing age can affect our safe driving ability. The talk contained many pieces of advice to help us keep driving safely for longer and eventually to plan the right time to retire from driving.
By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club
Tewkesbury’s
2025 marks fifty years of the vibrant Roses Theatre, and in its new brochure you’ll find details of a plethora of activities, as well as news of upcoming films, stage shows and live music.
Tuesday nights in the Roses Bar have a different offering each week.
There’s a wide range of live music from solo performers and bands on the first Tuesday of the month, quiz nights on the second, and open mic nights on the third.
The fourth Tuesday of the month is reserved for Drink and Draw - led by local illustrator and art tutor Melissa Turland. All abilities are welcome and each month features a different theme - plus you can unwind with a drink while you draw too!
On Mondays, there is Bingo every week at 1.45pm and in the evenings a Board Game Meet-up (6.30pm) for a relaxed evening featuring Azul, Pandemic and Wingspan. You can also take your own game along, and enjoy a drink from the bar while you play. Under 16s must be supervised by an adult. Wednesday mornings
belong to the K2Togs group of knitters and crocheters, meeting for a coffee and a chat while they are being creative between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
If music is your thing, then there are opportunities to try out with the Roses Choir, sing for health and wellbeing, or strum away with the Roses’ newest resident group, Ukes of Tewkesbury.
On selected Wednesday afternoons there is a Memory Café, where you can reminisce over a cuppa and join in games like dominoes. On other
Wednesdays there are dementia-friendly film screenings with a welcome and support for those with dementia and their carers.
No adverts and plenty of comfort breaks, plus free tea. coffee and biscuits from 10.30am.
Films will start at 11.00am on Wednesdays 29th January, 26th February and 26th March. Those requiring wheelchair space should contact the theatre in advance.
More information for all events is in the new brochure, or online at rosestheatre.org
Drink and Draw at the Roses with Melissa Turland
WHAT’S ON AT TEWKESBURY GARDEN CENTRE
by Rachel Gallagher
January - Our Big Winter Sale
All of us at Tewkesbury Garden Centre wish everyone a great start to 2025, writes Rachel Gallagher. We re-open at 9.00am on Friday 3rd January, and there are plenty of reasons for popping in to see us. We have some fabulous offers on our Christmas decorations, giftware and cards, for you in our Sale.
We have plenty of winter fuel, logs, kindling, coal and gas to keep you warm, and rock salt for icy pathways. For the horses we have shavings and for wild Birds we have a great range of feeds, fatballs and feeders.
Christmas tree recycling is now availableso bring your tree to be composted.
In the Flower Shed, we make beautiful arrangements for memorable occasions, it is not too early for a reminder that, Friday 14th February, Valentines Day will soon be here, and we are taking orders for the special day for couples now.
Don’t forget that
Brown’s Garden Restaurant will be serving, as usual, fresh home cooked breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas cakes and treats to enjoy at leisure.
Hope to see you here soon.
Rachel x
Tewkesbury Garden Centre is at The Mythe, Worcester Road, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB Tel: 01684 293103
In the Garden, January tasks include:
•Sowing hardy vegetables that can endure lower temperatures
•Starting leafy greens indoors,
•Begin growing flowers indoors, planting herbs
•Prepare soil and beds for spring planting and protect early plantings from the cold.
•And of course, bring your Christmas tree to Tewkesbury Garden Centre for recycling
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Christmas Tree recycling at Tewkesbury Garden Centre this month
Plenty to tempt you at Brown’s Garden Restaurant
The Flower Shed
A warm welcome awaits at Badham Pharmacy, Priors Park
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
Zeta Salon Opens in Tewkesbury: A New Hub for Hair, Beauty, and Wellness Professionals
Tewkesbury’s latest luxury beauty destination, Zeta Salon, is now open in the Industrial District, offering a modern, stylish space for self-employed beauty and wellness professionals. Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Junction 9 of the M5 and next door to Studio 7 Tanning Rooms, Zeta provides ample FREE parking, making it the perfect location for both clients and professionals.
Zeta is more than just a salon—it’s a hub for creativity and growth. The space offers a variety of flexible rental options for professionals in the hair, beauty, and wellness industry, including hairdressers, barbers, makeup artists, beauty therapists, massage specialists, and nail technicians. Whether you’re looking to rent a chair, a treatment room, or a nail desk, Zeta offers affordable rates starting at just £20, with options for part-time, full-time, or ad-hoc rentals. This flexibility allows professionals to tailor their work schedule to suit their needs and business goals.
The salon provides a luxurious environment with a range of services from talented self-employed professionals, including hair styling and extensions, beauty therapies, lash lifts, Million Dollar facials, and more. Zeta prides itself on being a supportive, collaborative space, where independent professionals can work together in
a relaxing and high-end setting.
Zeta is also committed to ensuring accessibility, with full disabled access, including a dedicated disabled toilet for customers’ comfort. In addition to the exceptional salon facilities, Zeta offers exclusive benefits such as discounts at the neighbouring Studio 7 Tanning Rooms and promotional support for your business, including social media promotion.
If you’re a beauty or wellness professional
looking for a supportive, flexible space to grow your business, Zeta Salon is the ideal choice. Take advantage of their rental opportunities and join a community of like-minded professionals committed to providing top-notch services in a luxurious, well-equipped space. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Zeta Salon at zetatewkesbury@gmail. com or call us on 01684 607037 or visit Unit 7, Ganaway Lane, GL20 8FD.
GARDENING MONTHLY - with Tim Hoskins
Look to the future, it’s only just begun
As the new year rolls in, there's an inevitable surge of optimism that seems to flood our minds, writes Tim Hoskins.
We plan holidays, imagine buying houses we can’t afford and for us gardeners, we see a sunny year ahead, punctuated by soft nightly rain that means our gardens will look amazing and we’ll barely lift a finger as we sip homemade lemonade from a gently swinging hammock.
It’s as if the turning of the calendar suddenly makes us think, this will be the year.
This year, our garden will be a lush, vibrant paradise.
OK, we’ve had our failures in the past, but this time, with renewed vigour, we’ll conquer the weeds, defeat the pests, and possibly even manage to grow something edible.
Despite planning for everything months in advance, I still feel the optimism, although it usually starts in December for me.
Can it be that good? Well, if we revisit the basics: soil health, right plant/right place, watering, pests/diseases, timing, optimism and cynicism, we’ll be in a good place to meet the year head on.
2024 was a tough
year in the garden. We had a mild winter which prolonged autumn jobs which then overlapped with the early start of the spring jobs.
So this year I am keeping everything crossed for a vicious cold winter so I can catch up.
Let’s not forget that meteorological winter starts in January, so there is plenty of time.
It was a great reminder that every season has its place and that even though winter gardens are less showy, the backstage preparatory work that goes on is vital.
This winter, my team and I will mostly be pruning trees. We’re shaping crowns of feature trees for aesthetics but also to keep them balanced and healthy.
We’ll also be going into the stands to lift crowns and remove dead material.
This will aid upward growth, ease congestion,
encourage faster root penetration and allow easier management of the understorey.
Ultimately it is about creating healthier woods, faster and with less (hopefully no) future management required.
Happy new year garden chums.
Tim Hoskins
Tim Hoskins
PART 3: FROM BROWN TO WALKER’S
The industrialist Thomas Walker then had a thriving business as an Engineer, Millwright and Machinist and he needed to expand: the failed mill was the ideal neighbouring location.
Walker had been working in the mill to the right, at the end of the burgage plot of the Nottingham Arms.
Walker has been brought as son of the publican of the Wheatsheaf at the other end of that burgage plot.
He opened these Works in 1878, but instead of agricultural implements, he attracted owners of fairground rides - first for repairs and then he started to
develop the manufacture of steam powered fairground attraction with the engine integrated into the ride.
By the 1890s the Gallopers were his popular attractions followed by seaside Watchtowers and Helter-skelters.
That success was, however, interrupted by the iconic fire which destroyed much of the factory – but not the tower – and Walker’s house to the left.
His business soon recovered and moved to a new site in Spring Gardens. The factory was rescued to some extent so that in WWI it became a cinema – and so it remained for some
Walker’s steam-powered 4 a-breast Gallopers of 1890s
The Oldbury end of the plot, 1871-1908. Merrett’s Yard had been demolished to make way for garages after 1939
The cover of the book by G. Downie & Dr J. MiddlemissThomas Walker, Builder of Steam Roundabouts
The fire at Walker’s factory in 1908
PIZZAS CALZONE BURGERS
LIVE MUSIC To promote your event here,
SAT 11th JAN: The Revolvers, Village Club, Stanton, Nr Broadway WR12 7NE www.stantonclub.co.uk
WED 15th JAN: Open Mixed Folk Music Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW (Music starts 8pm)
FRI 17th JAN: Back to Bacharach, The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 18th JAN: Foyer Folk: The Backwater Trio, Number 8 Arts Centre, High Street, Pershore WR10 1BG www.number8.org
THURS 23rd JAN: Pretty Vacant with Kevin Kennedy, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
THURS 23rd JAN: Martin Joseph, The Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 2ES worcestertheatres.co.uk
SAT 25th JAN: Back in the Day - 60s, 70s & 80s music, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
FRI 24th, SAT 25th & SUN 26th JAN: Gloucester Cajun and Zydeco Festival, Music throughout the weekend centred upon Gloucester Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
WED 29th JAN: Open Celtic Folk Music Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW (Music starts 8pm)
FRI 31st JAN: Unravelling Wilburys
SPRING FRINGE FOR TEWKESBURY LIVE
You wanted more, you got it! This Spring there’s another chance to see a couple of the many favourites' from last summer’s Tewkesbury Live event.
The Spring Fringe will be held at the Watson Hall on Saturday 19th April 2025, with Rave Against the Regime and The Vespas taking the stage. Doors and bar are open from 7pm.
For more details see the website tewkesburytowncouncil.gov.uk/event/tewkesbury-live-springfringe. Tickets can also be purchased in Town Hall, priced £12. All proceeds will go to the main festival, which is planned for July. See back page of this issue for an update.
Six fiendish questions to put your general
1: Which singer, songwriter, actor and musician was born David Robert Jones on 8th January 1947?
2: Which currency, which first appeared in 1999, was adopted by twelve countries on 1st January 2002?
Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ themarkettheatre.com
SAT 1st FEB: The Bay City Rollers, The SubRooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
SUN 2nd FEB: Emily Barker, The SubRooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
TUES 4th FEB:
Katya Gorrie Trio, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
3: In which year was the hottest New Year’s Day on record? (16.3C, London)
4: Cheltenham Town came within nine minutes of knocking which Premier League team out of the FA Cup on 23rd Jan 2021?
5: Who was sworn in as the 44th President of the USA on 9th January 2009? 6: Which historical figure avoided being hung, drawn and quartered by jumping from the gallows and breaking his neck on 31st January 1606?
FRI 7th FEB: Down For The Count, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 8th FEB: Local Live Bands at Cheltenham Town Hall with The Coppertinas, Billy Driscoll and Collective Sleep Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA cheltenhamtownhall. org.uk
SAT 8th FEB: Ward Thomas, The Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 2ES worcestertheatres.co.uk
FIRST HEADLINE ACT FOR LAKEFEST ANNOUNCED
The legendary Echo and the Bunnymen will be headlining Thursday night opener Lakefest 2025. With iconic hits like The Killing Moon and Lips Like Sugar, they’ve been the soundtrack to generations Get ready for a night of timeless tunes, electric vibes, and festival magic as the band kick off an epic weekend of music and memories, which runs from 6th-10th August. Tickets are on sale now - check the website lakefest.co.uk for details.
Peace Doves
STRESSED OUT? TOP TIPS TO PREVENT TENSION
Life has become more and more stressful. We have stressful jobs, lead hectic and stressful lives and now many of us are suffering the additional stress of the cost of living crisis. Stress effects your body in many different ways from reducing your sleep to raising blood sugar levels and blood pressure as well as impacting everything from your digestive system to your immune system. Stress also has a huge impact on your musculoskeletal system (your bones, joints and muscles). Stress sets off a natural protection mechanism, our muscles tighten up in response to stressful situations and relax again once the stressful situation has passed. However, if you are under constant (chronic) stress, your muscles do not get a chance to relax and this can eventually lead
to low back and neck/ shoulder pain as well as contribute towards tension headaches.
In many cases we can’t simply cut out the stressful things in our lives, so what can be done to help reduce the effects of stress on our musculoskeletal system?
Stretching – stretching your tight muscles can help release tension, be sure to hold the stretch for 20 seconds and remember it shouldn’t be painful.
Breathing exercises – abdominal breathing exercises are a great way
to reduce tension in your diaphragm and make you feel more relaxed.
Exercising – exercise helps get those muscles working which increases blood flow (which is often reduced in over tight muscles). You don’t have to run a marathon either, just getting out for a short walk is enough to get those muscles moving and its great for your mental health too!
Meditation – mediation or mindfulness can help reduce muscle tension through relaxation. There are some great meditation and mindfulness apps and videos out there so you can have a go from the comfort of your own home.
Manual therapy –your manual therapist (be it a physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath or massage therapist) can help alleviate the tension in your muscles through massage, gentle stretching and mobilisation techniques. Be sure to check they are fully qualified and insured. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that different people find different things helpful for relaxing so try a few different things and see what works for you.
m Katie Hogg
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01684 273344
Peace Doves at the Abbey
sales@allfasttewkesbury.co.uk
Unit G2, Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8JH
1ST - 27TH FEBRUARY at Tewkesbury Abbey
Peace Doves is a mass participation artwork created by sculptor and artist Peter Walker. Thousands of paper doves carrying messages of peace, hope, and love will be suspended in an illuminated installation above the Nave of Tewkesbury Abbey, with music by David Harper.
Visitors to the Abbey are invited to write messages or prayers of peace, hope, and love
on the paper doves provided, and leave them in a box. These will then later form part of the installation at Tewkesbury Abbey.
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The Borough Mayors Charity Concert, the Roses Theatre, 16th March at 7pm.
Councillor Philip Workman is pleased to announce, he will be joined by the Churchdown Male Voice Choir performing in their 60th year and also ‘Voices in Force’, the Gloucestershire Police Ladies Choir, both have a repertoire of very varied music, so something for everyone.
The Charities are Friends of Alderman Knight School and some of their pupils will also taking part together with representatives from SARA (Severn Area Rescue Association), they will be presented with medals for some of their volunteer work. These two charities in very different ways, support the residents of our Town and Borough.
Tickets are available from the Roses Theatre at £15 so book yours today.
By Stephanie Jepson
Get ready for an unforgettable day of travel inspiration!
On Saturday 25th January,at 10am.
Courtney World Travel is hosting Tewkesbury’s first ever Holiday Show at The Watson Hall. With 18 specialist Tour Operators, this event is your perfect opportunity to explore a world of holiday destinations. We’ve covered every type of holiday from cruise,
safari, honeymoons, cities, adventure, luxury and family breaks and destinations from all around the globe.
Special Offerings: Chat with Destination Specialist Operators. Pick up brochures, spe-
cial offers and discount vouchers.
Complimentary Glass of Bubbles on Arrival
Don’t miss out on this unique chance to gather ideas. We are so excited to bring this unique event to you!!
Whether your fire is for warmth or a feature, traditional
or bespoke
Fireplace Gallery
fire to suit your home.
With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and an experienced sales and installation team, we can supply and create exactly what you are looking for.
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
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
Open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday
REUSE IS THE BEST WAY TO RECYCLE
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.
u3a open/membership renewal morning
On 11 November Tewkesbury & District u3a held their annual Open/Membership Renewal Morning at the Baptist Church. This being our main opportunity to inform the public about our organisation, recruit more members and allow current members to renew their membership.
The Morning was a great success with over 200 people attending, including 40 non-members of which half joined our u3a within a week of the event. We hope that they are already enjoying the Speakers/acts at our monthly Baptist Church General Meetings and beginning to try out some of our various Groups.
We are a member’s organisation open to anyone no longer in fulltime employment.
Nearly 35 Groups had a stall showing what activities they have. There were more display boards available this year and they were all put to good use.
For the first time we had stalls in the Main Hall and also the Sports Hall. This allowed more space for everyone.
The stalls included some elaborate displays and several videos of our activities, as well as one Group playing Mahjong. This enabled us to show what a useful community facility we are, especially against loneliness in later life. Long may we all Learn, Laugh and Live.
Our u3a has about 560 members taking part in varied Group activities. We all learn from each other about activities, be they games, crafts, languag-
es, knowledge about the past, or other pursuits. Why not come and join us or look at our website at tewkesburyu3a.org
cotswoldvalesupplies@hotmail.co.uk www.cotswoldvalesupplies.co.uk
Things to look forward to this month:
• Seed potatoes & onion sets
• Vegetable & flower seeds
• Potted spring bulbs & bedding plants
• Logs & kindling wood
• Plant, lawn & garden care products
• Specialist composts & decorative gravels
• Barrels, terracotta & glazed pots
• Specialist bird care products
Gretton Road, Gotherington GL52 9QY
Open - Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm Sunday: 10am-4pm Closed 2pm Christmas Eve, re-open 9am 2nd January 01242 676722 www.gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk
Cooper Warren, age 8, completed his
and
Cooper ran four laps of Cheltenham Racecourse, overcoming 30 inflatable obstacles earning himself a great medal, supported by his dad Chris Warren & partner Amy. He’s keen to sign up for another mud run this year so watch this space.
m Cooper with dad, Chris
m Cooper with medal
Ledbury Road Services, Tewkesbury’s New Petrol Filling Station and Shop, Open for Business
Partner in the recently reopened Petrol Station on the Ledbury Road, Susannah Moffat, is pleased to say this new venture is up, running and ready to serve the local community.
Susannah says; “We’ve been overwhelmed with the support and kind words from everyone who’s taken the time to visit us at Ledbury Road Services since we opened. It’s been a long slog to get it to this point, but all the hard work has paid off and we’re delighted to finally be open and serving the local community.
“We are adding to the range every day, and listening to feedback from customers to make sure we’re stocking the things they want to buy. We’ll be launching our Christmas range later this week, with plenty of local goodies and some exotic treats from further afield.
“A big shout out to
just a few of our local suppliers for their support: Bentley’s Fruit Farm, Croome Cheese, Gloucester Sausage Co, Draper’s Bakery, Ledbury Wine Cellar, My Heart on a String Florist, Ludlow Nut Company, Ethical Addictions, Cotswold Dairy, Creed Food Service, Ruby’s Fudge, Emily’s Jams & Chutneys and Little Verzons Farm for their wonderful Scotch eggs, which our customers can’t get enough of!
“If you haven’t visited us yet, we’d love to see you. We’re open 7am7pm week days and slightly shorter hours at the weekend.”
Susannah & Olly, Owners Ledbury Road Services
EVENTS At John Moore Museum
m
Local author David Elder, will be sharing some of Tewkesbury’s lost, forgotten and hidden histories, recounting some remarkable stories. Did you know about the local the seaman who carried Admiral Nelson’s wounded body to the cockpit of HMS Victory? Come along to discover so much more local facts.
Date and Time: Saturday 1st February at 11am
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
To reserve your place at this event please call 01684 297174 or email education@johnmooremuseum.org
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FROM BECKFORD TO TIMELESS GRAFTON
“God laughed when he made Grafton, that’s under Bredon Hill,” wrote John Drinkwater. His poem ‘At Grafton’ perfectly captures the tranquil spirit of this small hamlet, which has hardly changed for over a century, writes Jack B. Walker.
To visit this lovely spot, which even the back roads pass by, park near
the church in the centre of Beckford village. Go through the lych-
Distance: Approx. 4 miles, one steep climb.Can be muddy across the fields.
Dogs on leads please - livestock my be in fields
Car Parking: near the church in Beckford village centre, with respect to local residents.
Refreshments: The Old Post Office Café and the Beckford Inn; there’s also an eatery at Beckford Silk.
Sketch map not to scale: OS Sheet OL190 (The Malverns & Bredon Hill) recommended.
DAYTIME DANCE - with Cate and George; Mon 6th Jan, 1-4pm at the Watson Hall. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy the music, watch the dancers, or have a chat and a cup of tea! Free event - all welcome. There will be someone to say hello when you arrive, so you can come on your own or with friends.
THE LONGEST YARN - Don’t miss the D-Day 80th anniversary commemorated as The Longest Yarn comes to Tewkesbury Abbey. The Longest Yarn is an 80m 3D depiction of that fateful day, 6th June 1944, in wool art. The exhibition runs until Thur 9th Jan, 9.30am – 3.45pm, free entry.
TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVE - needs your help! Are you a regular user of the reserve? We need your help for 'Wildlife Wednesdays'. If you are a regular photographer of our local wildlife and are happy to share your images with us, please get in contact at access@tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk. Alternatively, message us on Instagram @tewkesburynr or Facebook @tewkesburynaturereserve. Volunteer with us, provisional dates are Sat 11th and Wed 15th Jan. Email volunteers @tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk if you are interested.
TEWKESBURY REPAIR CAFÉ - held monthly in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm, next session Sat 18th Jan. Please double check before travelling. Bring electricals, toys, clothes, costume jewellery, anything that needs fixing. Tools can also be sharpened. Tea and coffee available while you wait.
gate and follow the path to the left of the church, bearing right around the building to take a narrow path at the far corner of the churchyard, which eventually brings you on to a road.
Turn right (1) and followthe road as it ascends, passing Court Farm House. Bear left into the farmyard, then take the lane after the barn on the right (2) which is known locally as ‘The Yellow Brick Road.’
Follow it up the hill, ignoring the first tracks to the left and right, until you come to cross track junction. Turn right (3) and follow the lane until you come to a turning on the right (4)
Take this path and pass behind a barn, then left over a stile into a field (5). Follow the way markers to descend above Beckford Coppice, and climb up the bank to cross another stile amongst some trees (6)
There are good views from here to Dumbleton Hill and the Cotswolds beyond. Follow the waymarked path down across fields and stiles, to reach a five bar gate. Walk through and ahead into Grafton (7)
Follow the lane, which bears right down through the village, passing some ancient cottages - including Norman Cottage which was once a Chapel of Ease for the church at Beckford. It is now a pri-
vate home, but the original arch can still been seen in the end wall. In recent years there has been much sensitive renovation of several homes in Grafton, but until 1986 nothing new was built here for almost 100 years.
When you arrive at a T-junction by a farm. (8), turn right and keep on the tarmac road as it leaves Grafton, curving left towards the Beckford Road. Look for a footpath on your right, (9) which crosses a field and passes over a drive leading to a bungalow.
Carry on to reach the cottage at the junction of another driveway and the road, and turn right (10), towards Beckford.
These open fields once grew fruit commercially, including ‘pick your own’ strawberries and blackcurrants for the makers of Ribena.
Follow the road towards Beckford, and just before the turning to Beckford Silk, go through the metal gate on your right into Beckford Nature Reserve (11). Follow the path ahead - where you may visit a hide and observe some of the birds on the lake. You may spot coots, moorhen, swans, little grebe (dabchicks) and assorted ducks and geese. It can be very noisy here in Spring!
Follow the path to the right of the hide, skirting the lake on your left, and
© tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk
TEWKESBURY FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - Next meeting Mon 20th Jan at The Cross House Tavern.
CHRISTMAS RECYCLING - If you had one, don’t forget to recycle your Christmas tree and also to donate any unwanted decorations or presents.
PLASTIC FREE TEWKESBURY - Has a useful, local and up-to-date recycling guide. www.plasticfreetewkesbury.com
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLESFor information and useful tips on recycling,visit www.gloucestershirerecycles.com
follow it right around the far end, climbing up the steps to a metal kissing gate, which brings you
back on to Court Farm Lane. Turn left and retrace your steps to Beckford village centre.
WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOVAL SCENE by Cate Cody
Grafton: old thatch and Bredon limestone
Beckford Nature Reserve
FREE FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN
The town’s immensely popular free live music festival is set to return this summer.
Tewkesbury Town Centre will be alive with music on the weekend of 25th-27th July, from rock and pop to blues and funk.
The festival is funded by donations, grant funding and sponsorship, with free music in pubs and a variety of venues, plus family workshops and other activities over the weekend.
For more details see the website tewkesbury live.co.uk
EPIPHANY CAROL SERVICE
There will be a candle-lit Carol Service to mark Epiphany, sung by Tewkesbury Abbey Choir. All are welcome on Sunday 5th January, with a 6pm start. The nearest car park to the abbey is in Gander Lane.
