From Friday 26th until Sunday 28th July, the town’s pubs and clubs will be ringing with music to suit all tastes: rock, pop, folk, blues punk - and it’s all free!
Nicole Finnegan, Finance and Events Officer for Tewkesbury Town Council, said:
“This year there are even more bands and activities for all the family. There are 111 to choose from!
“A printed pro-
gramme of events will be available in the next few weeks packed full of live bands with genres to suit everyone - and family activities.
“All the pubs and venues in town are participating with a new outdoor stage at The Boathouse, which is under new management.
“Volunteers will be collecting donations over the weekend to help with the future of the town festival, so please
give generously.
“This year, camping is available at the Rugby Club so visiting friends and family can stay too.”
Paul Jones – Town Mayor, commented:
“I am delighted that Tewkesbury Live Music Festival is back again this year. It is such a positive weekend for the town with residents and visitors enjoying the free music and activities.
“The Town Hall Tewkesbury Live Team have been working hard to make the festival exciting with something for everyone.
“The whole town comes alive with music with a fantastic festival atmosphere and the event has put Tewkesbury on the map for promoting live music.
:I am aware that this year we have people coming from as far away as America and Australia.”
Elaine Feeney, as a novelist was a new author for me even if this book is not her first; it is so easy to miss some really good writers. She is also a poet.
Set on the west coast of Ireland the story focuses on Jamie O'Neill, a 13 year old who lives with his father, Eoin; his mother Noelle having died after childbirth. His Gran, Marie lives next door to her son.
They are a close knit trio but it is the character of Jamie that makes this novel come alive, he is to say the least unusual. Bright, tall and mature for his age, yet uncertain and unsure in company.
As he starts at his new school, Christ's College, these uncertainties come to the forefront.
Apart from the O'Neill family, the two other principal characters are two teachers at the college. Tess Mahon and Tadhg Foley, the new head of Carpentry.
Jamie has extra time allocated to him with Tess and they develop a bond and trusting workable relationship.
Tadhg becomes more involved as the book advances and the two teachers give Jamie the extra support and encouragement that he needs.
Jamie is bright and is fixated with Maryam Mirzakhani, the Iranian Mathematician. He has a fascination with the concept of Perpetual Motion, wanting to design and build his own machine.
It is this idea/theme that leads to Tadhg and Tess helping Jamie build
a currach, an art that Tadhg has grown up learning; hence the title of the book.
Jamie has a very select small group of friends who, in addition to his own family, become involved in the construction of this boat which forms the core of the story, but there is much more in this novel.
Tess and her husband, Paul have been trying IVF, without success. Marriage guidance is a sore point, so their relationship is the background to Jamie's story; this adds depth to the author's main theme and is a direct opposite to the events surrounding Jamie, Tadhg and Tess in the workshop.
"How to Build a Boat" was longlisted for the Booker prize in 2023 and has received much deserved praise, including on BBC "Between the Covers", all well deserved.
I can well see it being a great selection for book clubs as there is much within the text to prompt discussion, also a great holiday read. Now due out in paperback.
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
We thought that you would be pleased to learn that to date we have raised approximately £3,000 for the RNLI from our event and raffle at Croft Farm on the 26th May - and we still have some monies to come in.
We were blessed with dry weather and lots of visitors! Many of whom had read the article in Tewkesbury Direct.
Just wanted to thank you again, your help was so appreciated, we are very grateful.
Thank you!
Best wishes Sue Milliams (RNLI)
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Enjoy
a taste of the past at Church Street Gifts
Church Street Gifts is getting into the Medieval Spirit with a special mead tasting tent in their garden during festival week.
The popular gift shop will be offering tipplers the chance to discover mead - the honey-based drink of the period - in its medieval walled garden.
There will be mead for day and knights, with special prices on all brands. Those on offer include Nidhoggr, Wye Valley Hive Mind, Chalice and Venom, as well as sparkling meads and many others. Tasting advice will be available. Also on offer is specially distilled Tewkesbury 1471 gin. The tent will be open 10th-14th July at Church Street Gifts, 39 High Street, just along from The John Moore Museum.
THE FRENCH CONNECTION
The largest gathering of Peugeot Cars in the world is taking place at Prescott Hill Climb, near Gotherington, on Sunday 7th July.
Organised by the Peugeot Sports Car Club UK, all models of Peugeot from various eras will assemble at the world famous uphill track from 10am-4pm. For details see www.prescotthillclimb.co.uk
EVENING ALLEYWAY WALKS WILL EXPLORE
TEWKESBURY’S SOCIAL HERITAGE
A series of evening walks arranged jointly by Tewkesbury Museum and Project Alleycat will examine the history of the town’s historic lanes and alleyways.
The Wednesday evening strolls will leave Warder’s Alley (next to the Acorns store in the High Street) at 7pm, and last for about two hours. Each walk will take a different route, and guides will explain about the history of the buildings and the people who lived within them. The cost is £2.50 and no advance booking is required. The dates will be 3rd, 17th, 31st July and 14th and 28th August.
Mead in the garden at Church Street Gifts
Out
m SAT 6TH JULY:
Snowshill Village Fete
m SAT 6TH JULY:
Stow on the Wold Motor Show Including the Battle of Britain memorial flypast Hurricane & Spitfire (subject to weather and any RAF/ CAA restrictions).
Pavilion Bar & Food Stalls, Radio Controlled Racing demonstration, Live Music, Supercar display in Stow Square. Vintage bus rides from the Square to the Cricket Field (scenic route) & returning from outside the top gate on Swell
about this Summer!
Road to the Square (direct route) at regular intervals.
m SAT13TH JULY: Stanway House Stanway Fete, A chance to see this charming Jacobean Manor House, the choice for period film makers from around the world.
The 1:1 Diet is the only weight loss plan that gives you dedicated one-to-one support from your own Personal
m SAT13TH JULY: Ross on Wye, Livestock Centre HR9 7QQ South Midlands AutoJumble, A chance to see this charming Jacobean Manor House, the choice for period film makers from around the world.
m SAT 23RD JULY:
Ruardean Village Hall Dean Motor Show
Bredon CC Shines with Victories and Exciting Plans for All Ages!
Our season is now in full swing, and our 1st XI have recently secured a couple of victories, along with some stand out performances from Haleem Basharat (pictured), who took 5 wickets for 14 runs, including a hattrick against Bellbroughton. Also, Seb Soukup scored 89 not out against Barnards Green. Meanwhile our 2nd XI is still striving for their first victory despite a number of tight finishes, and we are certain their first victory will soon be achieved.
Gradually, our Bredon CC junior section continues to thrive with over 100 youngsters enjoying Friday evening coaching sessions and the under 11’s, 13’s and15’s playing fixtures in the Cotswold Hills League.
With so much interest, the club is proposing to run a junior coaching week from July 29th – 1st August, when youngsters will be able to develop their skills under the supervision of qualified coaches. Look out for further details, which will be made available on our social media site nearer the time.
The club are also looking to introduce a Ladies cricket team and our first coaching session took place on Fri-
day 14th June. As these sessions continue, we welcome all ages, and no previous experience or equipment is required. It is also important that we don’t forget our past, the club was founded in 1890 and has played at various locations in Bredon & Westmancote over the past 130 years. With this in mind we will be holding a former players lunch on Saturday 13th July when we can reminisce about the ‘good old days’ before watching our 1st XI play against Enville.
A busy time ahead at Bredon Cricket Club and as always, it would be great to see new members, both social and playing at our beautiful Hill Close ground.
By Neil Hall Chairman
m Haleem Basharat got 5 wickets for 14 runs including a Hatrick
Tewkesbury Photographer Wins Prestigious Event Award for Second Consecutive Year
Tewkesbury's acclaimed award-winning photographer, Jack Boskett, has added another prestigious accolade to his collection by winning an award in the worldwide renown Event Photography Awards (EPAs).
The ceremony took place on Wednesday 5th June at the Royal Institute for British Architects, near Regent’s Park, London.
Jack's winning photograph captured The Princess Royal at a charity event in Gloucester for the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation. The image, taken while he was on the Royal Rota, showcased his keen eye for creativity by depicting The Princess Royal engaged in conversation with guests, framed artfully through someone's arm.
Expressing his delight, Jack said, “I couldn’t believe it when the presenter called my name out. I was over the moon to win the category last year, but to do it two years in a row is just unbelievable. I absolutely love my job and it is an honour and privilege to work with The Royal Family, it’s just one of those things you do not take for granted.”
The competition saw over 2500 entries from around the globe, with judges tasked with selecting winners across twenty categories.
Having won various awards at the EPAs over the last three years, Jack's victory underscores his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft of photography.
Jack Boskett
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TEWKESBURY & DISTRICT CRIBBAGE LEAGUE
A very well attended presentation evening took place on Monday at Bredon FC Club, in so much one table in the traditional challenge between the Country & Town Players was played outside!
The Country Players managed to stop the Town Players four wins in a row with an easy 19-14 win on the night.
The Berkeley Arms were overall the most successful team by winning both the Team KO and League.
Bredon FC had to settle for the Runners Up spot in the League but finally managed to win the Evan Akers Trophy after being second best for the last three Seasons.
Overall the Anchor 1774 team collected the most trophies, firstly by winning the Hylda Roberts Rose Bowl right at the beginning of the Season and then collecting the Team KO
OUR PHARMACY IN CHURCH ROAD, BISHOPS CLEEVE IS OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR
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
Cottage garden plants & soft fruit bushes
Trees, shrubs and hedging plants • Plant, lawn & garden care products
• Specialist composts & decorative gravels
• Terracotta, glazed and plastic pots
• Quality timber products
• Specialist bird care products
www.gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk
Runners Up Cup before finally winning the Wooden Spoon at the end of the Season.
Bredon Hill Village prepares for its annual Street Market
Summer has come around again and the people of Overbury, situated just north east of Tewkesbury, are busy preparing for the major event of their Summer calendar.
The annual Street Market, which attracts visitors from all over the area, will be held in the beautiful Bredon Hill village on Saturday 13th July. The market, which has been running for over forty years, takes place between 10am and 12noon against a picturesque backdrop of stone cottages, St Faith’s
Church (which dates back to Norman times) and the 18th century Overbury Court. During a hectic two hours, there's an opportunity to pick up unusually high quality bargains. A local food range will be available, and Anne's Pantry will also offer a range of homemade cakes and other goodies.
Stalls include the ever popular ‘Going for a Song’ - overflowing with paraphernalia of all descriptions.
Other stalls have a huge range of things including books, toys, DVDs, plants, crafts, jams and preserves; the list goes on and on.
Talented local artists display their work, and there will be a delicious selection of refreshments in Berkeley House Garden.
Whitcombe Garden (a member of the National Gardens Scheme) opens for relaxation and meandering, and the Friends of Overbury School will be organising fun activi-
ties for children. The raffle has magnificent prizes to be won, and there is a good bottle stall and tombola too. Mouth-watering bacon butties can be enjoyedand are ready prior to market opening.
Car parking and entry are both free. The organisers regret that no dogs are allowed.
If very wet, the market will take place in the Village Hall.
Money raised from the event will go to St Faith's Church, the Village Hall and other parish organisations. For more information on Overbury, visit www.overbury.org
LITTLE SHOPPERS EVENT AT THE WHEATPIECES
A quality nearly-new sale exclusively selling baby and children's clothes, toys and equipment is coming to the Wheatpieces Community Centre.
There will b lots of stalls bursting with pre-loved baby and children's items from birth to eight years old
The sale, which will be held from 2pm o 4pm on Saturday 6th July, also offers the chance for families to sell on outgrown baby and youngsters clothes and toys by booking their own stall from just £13. Stall holders then take home 100% of their profits. Entry is £2 (kids free).
For further information email info@littleshoppers.co.uk or check out facebook.com/littleshoppersbabyandchildrensmarket
Get ahead of the summer holiday rush and book in for ear lobe piercings now for yourself or your child.
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Emily and Sarah are both the ladies to see when it comes to ear piercing. And if you plan ahead, you can book them together to pierce the lobes both at the same time. We stock only titanium and 9ct white and yellow gold. Our minimum age we pierce is 6 years.We advise booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
Get your tan ready for Summer
Our Hybrid Tanning Bulbs will provide you with a more natural and longer lasting tan result, as well as helping with collagen production
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your tan with our gorgeously scented tanning enhancing creams which we retail in sachets and bottles. We have a range of creams with various accelerator and bronzer levels. Sachets start from £2.00. Bottles start from £13.00 Book our sunbed online now via Fresha.com
25% off Home Furnishings in the Francis of Malvern Summer Sale
Francis of Malvern, the local home furnishings and living spaces retailer, recently opened a new Carpet and Flooring Shop in Church Street, their traditional Summer Sale is now underway until the 16th July.
Your only chance to see 25% discount is on stock, including high quality furnishings, beds, sofas, flooring and accessories.
If you are seeking a stylish change to your home, perhaps a visit to Francis of Malvern could be a great place to start.
Francis, have three branches based in Tewkesbury and Malvern, a visit to the website or a visit to the
We
We have both full and part time positions available with ongoing training.
If you think this is for you, please send your CV to info@francisofmalvern.co.uk, or enquire in our branch at 97A Church Street Tewkesbury GL20 5RS. Tel: 01684 573823
WHAT’S ON at Three Counties Showground
m WED 3RD JULY
COTSWOLD & WYVERN
LABRADOR SHOW
m SAT 6TH – SUN 7TH JULY
TRUCKFEST WEST
MIDLANDS
m SAT 13TH JULY
NATIONAL WORKING & PASTORAL BREEDS SHOW
m SAT 13TH – SUN 14TH JULY
MALVERN HIGHLAND PONY SHOW
m SAT 13TH – SUN 14TH JULY
SHETLAND PERFORMANCE SHOW
m SUN 14TH JULY
EVESHAM & DISTRICT
CANINE SOCIETY
m SAT 20TH – SUN 21ST JULY
BRITISH SPOTTED PONY SOCIETY
m SUN 21 JULY
MALVERN FLEA AND COLLECTORS FAIR
m SAT 27TH – SUN 28TH JULY
THREE COUNTIES FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
m TUES 30TH JULY
NATIONAL SHEEP ASSOCIATION EVENT
showrooms will give you plenty of ideas to consider for a modern or traditional new look. It can all start here; francisofmalvern.co.uk.
Summer’s here, and it’s the perfect time to make your car shine. Head to Warners on Shannon Way and get £3 off their Platinum car wash.
This service includes a brush wash, wheel wash, foam spray, dry, and wax.
Use the voucher from this page and let your car gleam in the summer sun!
CAR WASH!
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 JULY
2 July - The John Singer Sargent Portraits (with Jim Cooper)
9 July - The Press Barons (with Martin Gower)
16 July - The story of Thomas Telford (with Peter Petrie)
23 July - One woman in a man’s world (with Lynn Hilditch)
30 July - The rise of witchcraft in the 16th century (with Kirstie Bingham)
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/
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Next session due Saturday 20th July. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm. Please double check before travelling. Bring electrical, toys, clothes, anything that needs fixing. Tools can also be sharpened. Tea and coffee available while you wait.
CATE AND GEORGE’S NEXT ‘DAYTIME DISCO’ - is Thursday 18th July, 1.00-4.00pm 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.
TEWKESBURY GOES
WILD -We’re running events throughout July again - free, but ticketed using Eventbrite. Look for posters on noticeboards and via social media. If you don’t have access to the internet, you can pop in to theTown Hall for information. Events will include gentle walks for older people, bug hunts, butterfly counts, a dawn walk, a night walk,
water quality testing, a tree talk, picnics, exploration, swift and swallow trails, mini pond making, composting, community gardening, a quiz, wild flower folklore, arts, crafts, plays and history. Events will take place within the parish, in meadows, by rivers and in public spaces.
TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVENew Carers Social Group. Meet others, socialise, enjoy the out-
doors and nature related activities on the Fourth Monday of the month, 10.00am-11.30am, for details please contact 3w@tewkesbury naturereserve.org.uk
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - for information see the website www.gloucestershire recycles.com
Join us in the walled garden of our medieval Building 10th -14th July 2024
39 church street Tewkesbury
special offers - MEAD TENT in the GARDENat also available Tewkesbury 1471 GIN
Come and discover meads you may not have tried – mead for day and Knights! enjoy special prices on all brands: We now have a mead loyalty card
• nidhoggr
• wye valley hive mind
• chalice
• moniack
• waking the demon
• venom…
• sparkling meads & others
TEWKESBURY MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL 2024
It’s that time of year again, folks! From the direction of Lincoln Green Lane comes the whirr of the mower, and the ‘thud thud’ of fence posts being hammered into place. Festival directors are busy chasing up paperwork, collecting articles and adverts for the programme, liaising with performers and traders, and more. So much more! The Festival, which is one of the largest in Europe, was started in 1984 by a group of local history enthusiasts and attracts reenactors from all over the world. It takes place on the second full weekend of July every year and has only paused for the Covid 19 pandemic.
The weekend is based around The Arrivall of the forces of the houses of York and Lancaster into Tewkesbury on the 4th of May, 1471. The Arrivall culminated in a bloody and decisive battle, which saw several leading protagonists lose their heads, the death of a prince
and a severe dent in the fortunes of the House of Lancaster.
Throughout the weekend the public are entertained by live music, food, drinks, living history displays and demonstrations, giants, jugglers, jesters, dancers, rogues, scoundrels and a huge market, all free of charge. The only cost is for car parking, a short walk from the site, and a voluntary donation into the famous Tewkesbury Battle buckets! This year we are proud to have joined the 21st century, and you can donate securely by card. We like a silent donation, a fiver sounds good!
The culmination of each day is the re-enactment of the battle itself. As the troops under the leadership of Somerset, Wenlock, Exeter, Devon, Clarence, Gloucester, The King and the
Prince of Wales clash, renowned historical expert Professor Ronald Hutton provides a commentary to interpret events as they unfold- with a little help from the village idiot*.
Following this, on the Saturday evening there is a recreation of the executions of The Duke of Somerset and other leading nobles outside The Abbey, before a candle-lit sung compline, well attended by reenactors in period clothes and locals alike. This is a sincere and solemn service.
The event brings in an extra 25,000 visitors to Tewkesbury and is a vibrant and dazzling spectacle. Local schools have a chance to gain the benefit of the reenactors’ historical knowledge on schools’ Day, on the Friday. We are grateful to the re-enactors who give up
their time to do this.
The children’s delight is obvious, and they are a breath of fresh air!
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
*me.
Tewkesbury is a thriving town, due to the efforts of those who work to provide events, talks, shows, festivals and above all those that give their custom to the town. This old cycle decorated with Lavender and Ivy in Tolsey Lane is bound to bring a little joy to shoppers.
150 High Street, Tewkesbury
Severn Unit
Celebrate 30th MVS
Anniversary at Tewkesbury Big Weekend
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the Service at Tewkesbury Big Weekend where they played a prominent part in organising all the river based activities and looking after safety issues afloat.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “TBW is a charity event visited by thousands of people and this was the 10th year it has taken place and the Unit has taken part right from the beginning. MVS Minverva was open to the public throughout the weekend and also lead the very popular parade of decorated boats. We were pleased to form the Guard of Honour to welcome the newly appointed Town Mayor Councillor Paul Jones and the Vicar of Tewkesbury Abbey the Revd Canon Nick Davies to the event. Later they visited our stand to meet us and hear about the work of the Service over the last 30 years.”
m Severn Unit assembled in front of Minerva
m Town Mayor and Consort, TBW organiser Carol Crilly, Revd Canon Nick Davies, TBW organiser Paul Cronin and HOU Severn Unit Nic Price in front of the MVS stand with McTavish the Scottish Terrier
m Severn 2 on water safety duty with Deputy HOU Russ Davidson, Head of Seamanship Tim Huckvale (Skipper) and HOU Nic Price
WHAT’S ON IN JUNE at the John Moore Museum
m MEDIEVAL
LONGBOW DEMONSTRATION & LIFE IN THE MERCHANT’S HOUSE
Archers from the Walsingham Pilgrims will be demonstrating the deadly effectiveness of a medieval English longbow this summer. Watch how the arrows fly through the air and the impact on their targets, even on armour! Discover just how powerful an English war bow is and the sort of damage the various arrowheads can do. Afterwards, head into our Medieval Merchant’s House to learn what life was like in Tewkesbury when the Battle was raging.
Date and times:
Saturday 13th JulyArchery at 11am & 6pm, Merchant’s House at 11am to 4.30pm. Sunday 14th July - Archery at 12.30pm, Merchant’s House at 11am to 4.30pm
Location: Abbey Lawn and Merchant’s House, Church Street, Tewkesbury
Tickets: Drop in. Free entry, please donate to the charity.
m MEDIEVAL STYLING: FROM SHIFT TO HOOD
Have you ever wondered how many layers of clothing the typical middling class wore during the Medieval period? Would you like to see how each layer is tailored and styled to create a cohesive outfit. Come along to this GRWM (Get Ready with Me) tour of both male and female fashion and perhaps see an ankle or two as we dress our Living History Reenactors.
Date and Time: Saturday 13th July at 12pm
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: £5.
Booking: Call 01684
297174 or email admin@ johnmooremuseum.org
m YPOTRYLL: A MEDIEVAL CONCERT
In Tewkesbury’s historic Old Baptist Chapel, Ypotryll will be performing medieval music from the 13th to the 15th centuries.
Named after a mythical medieval monster, the members are Simon Pickard, Karen Jones and Rachel Tedd, who sing and play various instruments, including the vielle, dulcimer, harp, recorder, psaltery and more.
Date and Time: Sunday 14th July at 2.30pm
Location: The Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: £10
Booking: Call 01684
297174 or email: admin@ johnmooremuseum.org
m LIVING HISTORY: TUDOR TOURS
This living history tour will take you back in time
to 1580, where Agnes, a Tudor housewife, will reveal her life and daily routines as you wander through the home she shares with her husband, Thomas. Hear Agnes talk about her childhood on a tenant farm, and of how she came to live in Tewkesbury as a merchant’s wife. You will see where Agnes sleeps, learn about a curfew, a trencher, and you may even get to see a Tudor
en-suite! Okay, a pisspot but there is a story behind every object
Date: Thursday 18th July Times: 11.30am & 2.30pm
Location: The Merchant’s House Tickets: Adults £3.50, Concessions £3 & Children £1.50
Booking: Call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org to reserve your place.
Check all of our services, click on to www.awebbrecycling.co.uk
Celebrate 30 years of helping local people to keep
Owner of Gym n Tonic, Chris Warren, tells us that his business is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Started by his Mum and Dad, Jeff and Mags Warren in 1994 at Croft Farm Water park, the gym has helped many to reach the levels of fitness they want to achieve.
Now run by Chris and his partner, Amy Cobb, the gym has been through a lot of changes over the 30 years including, extending into the building next door, upgrading to Technogym equipment and opening, 24 hours (with fob access).
These archive photos may evoke memories for many.
m Gym n Tonic first ever challenge, a virtual ride to Paris. Can you spot any familiar faces?
m Chris Warren and Amy Cobb
PLACE IN SPACE
Mild weather brings most of us outdoors and the reality for most people is that we start thinking about ways we might improve or change our outdoor spaces at this time of year, when the sun is shining and we’re in the mood for gardening.
I’m going to suggest a practical way of initiating the design-thought process which might be helpful if you haven’t got a clue where to start.
We’ll begin by borrowing the definition of Geography: place in space. A simple way of explaining this, is to imagine a group of children playing a in a field with a solitary tree growing in it. With all of the available space, where do the children actually congregate to play?
Around the only feature that gives focus to the space – the tree.
We are naturally drawn to existing features because humans seek pattern and meaning. Often when new developments are constructed, they follow existing features even when they don’t necessarily have to. So, we can trick ourselves into giving meaning to an otherwise blank canvas by creating places in our space.
GARDENS OPEN National Garden Scheme
OAK HOUSE, GRETTON: Saturday 6th July, 11am-4pm. Home made teas, refreshments. In aid of Gretton Village Association. Secret garden developed over thirty years and divided into rooms. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
TRENCH HILL, SHEEPSCOMBE: Sunday 14th July, 11am-6pm. Three acre garden set in woodland with panoramic views. Teas. Sheepscombe, GL6 6TZ. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
COTSWOLD GARDEN FLOWERS: Thursday 18th July, 11am-4pm. An acre of stockbeds with thousands of unusual and rare plants. Guided tours available, Sands Lane, Badsey, WR11 7EZ. findagarden.ngs.org.uk
In a garden, we could move a table or bench to a particular spot and see how we use it. We could put a large potted plant somewhere and see what other pots would work with it. We could let the grass grow long and mow wandering paths in it.
We could erect temporary barriers in place of fences or hedges to see what desire paths form. All of these things give us a base to work outwards from, without committing to anything.
You may be surprised how ideas are sparked and how gradually new gardens form.
I’ve used this method a lot and it can be very useful when there may be conflicting ideas or where someone needs persuading. Small focus areas, that you are confident about in terms of use, or aesthetic can be gradually expanded as budgets, time or actual usage dictate. Give it a go – you’ve got nothing to lose.
Tim Hoskins
MUCH MARCLE STEAM RALLY
SATURDAY 20TH AND SUNDAY 21ST JULY 2024
Situated in the heart of stunning Herefordshire countryside at Much Marcle near Ledbury.
A superb array of Steam Traction Engines,Tractor pulling Vintage Tractors, Vintage Commercial Vehicles, Vintage Motor Cycles and Cars, Stationary Engines, Fairground Organs, Models and Crafts.
H J Pugh of Ledbury will hold their annual Auction on Saturday 20th July.
40th Anniversary Open Day
Join us on Sunday 7th July 2024 11am – 4pm, for Vale Wildlife Hospital’s 40th Anniversary Open Day. £5 per person on the day, under 10’s FREE.
Your only chance to see inside one of the UK’s busiest wildlife hospitals and lots for the whole family to enjoy.
Just some of the things we have going on this year are: Our popular Fun Dog Show (starts at 12 noon), Grand Raffle, Silent Auction, Art Stall, Live Music, Tombola, Scavenger Hunt, Various Food Stalls, Charity Stalls, Craft Stalls, Bar, Sweet Treats, Vale’s Info Zone, Zorb Ball Pool, Bouncy Slide, Games for children and adults.
To find out more, email Natalie on info@valewildlife.org.uk.
We hope to see you all there.
By Natalie Gould HR / Admin Manager
Vale Wildlife Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre
As far as we know we only lost one serviceman: L/Cpl EDWIN
JOHN DAVIES fighting with the 4th Bn., King's Shropshire Light
Normandy Campaign of World War II
Infantry who died aged 28 on 1 July 1944.
D-Day was a success but the campaign to liberate Normandy was much more difficult and expensive in lives and equipment. Edwin was the son of Albert Henry and Francis Mary Davis; and husband of Edith A. Davis, of Tewkesbury.
His death is remembered with honour in ST. MANVIEU WAR CEMETERY, CHEUX.
Edwin was a civilian, called to the colours and was an unseasoned soldier with his first battle coming after the D-Day landings.
Born in Twyning, he lived in Chance Street after his marriage on 4 December 1939 to Edith Brookes. He also attended Tewkesbury Grammar School and his name is included on the plaque in the Town Hall.
It is likely that Edwin was called-up in May 1940, when the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry absorbed an intake of 350 raw recruits who were not ‘Salopians’. Most arrived from the Potteries in Staffordshire – but did
the intake include our Tewkesburian, Edwin Davis? He spent the next four years training.
The authorities had learned by 1916 that soldiers recruited from a local area died together which caused such sadness at home. Initially my research had been hampered by the War Office which had informed his widow that her husband had been killed on 8 June 1944.
I later ascertained that, on D-Day 6 June 1944, he was still at Aldershot: it was not until 13 June that he embarked for France at Newhaven.
By then a L/Cpl, he was involved in the costly Operation Epsom, an attempt to reach Caen. On the night of 30 June/1 July there was “severe and accurate shelling [which] heralded a heavy enemy attack during the early morning…..; …casualties were inevitable”. The attackers had been none other than the 9th/10th Panzer Divisions of the SS. Because of this engagement, military historians concluded
that “the success of the action gave great encouragement”. Continued on page 51
Edwin and Edith on their wedding day
L/Cpl Edwin John Davies of Tewkesbury
Cross House, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB www.crosshousetavern.pub
TUES 2nd JULY
Liz Simmonds and Flynn Cohen, Roses Theatre. rosestheatre.org
WED 3rd JULY: Open Mixed Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
WED 3rd JULY: Alex Steele Jazz Trio &singer Penny Powell, Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon. foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
Test your powers of recall with six of the best questions in this month’s Tewkesbur y Direct Pub Quiz.
1: Which King of the United Kingdom barred his estranged wife from his coronation in 1821?
2: Which English boxer did Muhammad Ali describe as ‘the toughest fighter I’ve ever met?’
FRIDAY 26th JULY: Nile Rodgers, Cheltenham Racecourse. thejockeyclub.co.uk
FRIDAY 26thSUNDAY 28th JULY: Tewkesbury Live, Various venues throughout the town.
WED 31st JULY:
Open Mixed Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
THURSDAY 1stSUNDAY 4th AUGUST:
App-Fest Gloucestershire, including The Boomtown Rats, Feeder, Scouting for Girls, Cast, Callum Beattie, Nik Kershaw, Katrina, Chesney Hawkes and Rebecca Ferguson.Hillworth Farm, Longdon GL20 6AX app-fest.co.uk
THURSDAY 8thSUNDAY 11th AUGUST: Lakefest Music Festival Eastnor Castle, Ledbury. Tickets lakefest.co.uk
3: Which actor played the part of American reporter Joe Bradley in the 1953 film ‘Roman Holiday?’
4: The rivers Wye, Teme, Lugg, Leadon and Frome can be found in which English county?
5: Which rock band, founded in 1968, included members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward?
WED 14th AUGUST: Open Celtic Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
THURSDAY 22ndSUNDAY 25th AUGUST: Sunshine Festival with headliners David Essex, Jason Donovan, Right Said Fred, Tony Christie, Upton-upon-Severn. uptonfestival.co.uk
TUES 3rd SEPT: Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), Roses Theatre. rosestheatre.org
WED 4th SEPT: Live Jazz Night, Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon. foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
SAT 7th SEPT: Steve Ashley with support from Mike Weaver, The Old Baptist Chapel. Doors Open 7.15pm. Advance tickets £10 www.wegottickets.com/ event/605731
6: Which
cilantro and dhaniya?
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD GUIDED WALKS - Thurs 4th July and Thurs 1st Aug. Two hour walk covering around two miles. Stout footwear recommended. Walks are free, but donations to the Battlefield Society are welcome. 7pm from the Abbey Lawn Car Park gates. Dogs on leads welcome.
TEWKESBURY
GUIDED WALKSTuesday evenings until 27th August. 90 minute walks exploring Tewkesbury’s history and heritage. Meet Abbey Gates (opposite the Bell Hotel) at 7pm. £10 per person.
FANTASY FOREST FESTIVAL, WINCHCOMBEFri 19th - Sun 21st July. Fantasy Forest Festival at Sudeley Castle - re-enactment and cosplay. Details fantasyforest.co.uk
EVESHAM RIVER FESTIVAL - Fri 12thSat 13th July. Live entertainment and illuminated boats on the River Avon. www.theeveshamriver festival.uk
PERSHORE RIVER FESTIVAL - Sat 20th July. Family fun day at
the riverside gardens. www.pershoreriver festival.co.uk
BATTLE OF EVESHAM FESTIVALSaturday 3rd - Sunday 4th August. Re-enactment of the 13th century battle at the Crown and Corporation Meadows by the River Avon. www.battleofevesham. co.uk
BROADWAY CAR SHOW - Saturday 17th - Sunday 18th August. Classic and vintage cars gather at the green. www.broadwaycarshow. co.uk
PERSHORE PLUM FESTIVAL - Saturday 24th - Monday 26th August. Food, entertainment and attractions in the town all weekend. www.pershoreplum festival.org.uk
EVESHAM ANGLING FESTIVAL - Sat 24thMon 26th August. Three day coarse fishing festival and rented village by the River Avon. eveshamfestival.com
GREAT COMBERTON FLOWER SHOWSaturday 24th August. Flower and fruit festival in a delightful Bredon Hill village. www. theflowershow.org.uk
MORETON SHOWSaturday 7th September. The UK’s largest one day agricultural show with ots to see and do. Details www.moretonshow.co.uk
BROADWAY HORTICULTURAL SHOW - Saturday 14th September. Locally grown plants, fruits and vegetables plus baked goods on the green. www.broadwayhcs.co.uk
Preparing for battle: Evesham 3rd-4th August
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UPCOMING SPEAKER NEWS
Meetings held on the 2nd Monday of each month in the Baptist Church Hall, Tewkesbury GL20 5DR.
Monday 8th July 10.30am – 12.00pm
Professor Gerald Seaman will speak of his Musical Life in Russia and how he nearly became James Bond. Monday 12th August 10.30am – 12.00pm Beth Andrews from Tewkesbury Nature Reserve asks us to “DO
FOR NATURE”
Welland Steam Rally - All The Fun Of The Old Time Fairground
It has been said that the Old Time Fairground at Welland is the best in the country. It features a fine selection of traditional amusements such as galloping horses, big wheel, dodgems, hurricane jets, skid and ghost train mixed with children’s rides and side stalls, all accompanied by traditional fairground music.
During the weekend, over 20 of the Showman’s Engines will be generating electricity to power and light the fair – a wonderful sight after dark on the Friday and Saturday evenings!
Come and take you and the family on a steam train ride. Leaving from Welland Halt you will travel through the showground on a full size locomotive.
Back by popular demand, remote control models creating wonderful construction scenes with a static display of fine examples of scale models.
Over 500 vintage cars, motorcycles and pedal cycles on display.
This year, the Welland Craft Tent will be back
with a wide variety of crafts and products for you to purchase.
As always we have over 150 stationary engines on exhibit. This year’s theme is Blackstone Engines.
A rare opportunity to experience the power of incredible machinery working out in the field as it once did in our past.
Watch to learn all about how roads were made in a time gone by using the power of steam.
See our huge display of military vehicles.
Make sure you find time to watch the magnificent steam engines and huge diesel lorries moving very heavy loads in their very own display area. A true spectacle to
behold, a must see.
Welland continues into the night with live music and shows on the outdoor stage, next to the beer tent.
Live music in the beer tent and the old time fairground comes to light.
TEWKESBURY ART SOCIETY
will be holding their Annual Summer Exhibition in the Town Hall, High St, Tewkesbury from 17th - 20 July, 2024 10am - 4pm each day. Free entry. There will be a wide selection of original art at affordable prices.
LIVE - Family Friendly Events
m SAT 27TH JULY:
Town Hall, High Street Music Man, 10:00am The Music Man David Lloyd is returning for a second year, extremely popular with younger children.
m SAT 27TH JULY:
Town Hall, High Street Kitch & Kaboodle, 12:30pm Crafts for all ages, this year we’re making Rainbows and Rockets Hangers. Attendees will paint their creations then decorate with feathers and sparkles.
m SAT 27TH JULY: Watson Hall, Barton Street Silent Disco for all ages, 3.30pm-6.30pm
m SAT 27TH JULY: Roses Theatre, Sun Street Amy Bastin Workshop and Performance, 10:30am
For beginners aged 5-11 years. Booking strongly encouraged.
m SAT 27TH JULY: Roses Theatre, Sun Street The He4t - Dance Workshops, 12:00pm For beginners For ages 7-11, learn street dance moves. Booking strongly encouraged.
m SAT 27TH JULY: Roses Theatre, Sun Street Battle of The Bands Under 21s, 3:30pm The winner gets a performance slot at Tewkesbury Live 2025!,There are also runner-up prizes to be won.
m SAT 27TH JULY: Roses Theatre, Sun Street Ukulele workshop Vicki Wagstaffe, 1:00pm All Ages. Please bring your own instrument
if possible; only a limited number of ukes available. Booking strongly encouraged.
m SAT 27TH JULY: Roses Theatre, Sun Street Open Mic with Serenity, 8:00pm For 16+ only.
m SUN 28TH JULY:
Town Hall, High Street Music Man, 10:00am The Music Man David Lloyd is returning for a second year, extremely popular with younger children.
m SUN 28TH JULY: Town Hall, High Street Gloucestershire Music workshops, 12:00pm Taster session to try out a new instrument or get involved. Booking strongly encouraged.
m SUN 28TH JULY:
Town Hall, High Street Sign Language ‘Sign a song’, 3:00pm Learn to Sign a Song!
m SUN 28TH JULY: The Black Bear Children’s Magic Show with Chris Cullen, 12:00 pm.
For more details of all events, visit www. tewkesburylive.co.uk - or call in at the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 Monday-Thursday, 9.30am-3.00pm.
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Wildlife Cheerleader, Doctor PomPom!
NHS Doctor, Charlotte moved into her Gloucestershire village house in 2019 not anticipating the surprising creatures in her garden that would turn her spare time upside down.
Discovering a healthy hedgehog population roaming around her garden, Charlotte was fascinated by the spiky mammals, busy working in her borders. Loving all animals, it came naturally to Charlotte to offer water, kitten biscuits for food, and new hog-box homes for the little creatures - watched over nightly by a newly
acquired trail camera.
Keenly viewing her camera footage one evening in late autumn 2020, Charlotte saw a juvenile hedgehog who appeared to be struggling. Realising she needed to do something to help, Charlotte contacted the charity, Vale Wildlife Hospital for advice. The helpful team said the baby hog was
far too small to survive hibernation and if Charlotte could catch it, the
charities have struggled over the past few years with escalating costs she
team at the Vale would assess and care for it.
Through the winter and in to later Spring ’21 the Vale team looked after the little hedgehog, returning the spiky girl to Charlotte’s garden in late Spring to carry on roaming around.
Totally astounded by the Vale’s support of British wildlife, Charlotte felt compelled to help out. Knowing that
Starting with crafting skills she already had and using donated or recycled materials, Charlotte started making bespoke pompom wreaths in her spare time. Each hand made decoration representing the animals the charity look after.
Fast forward to 2024 and Charlotte has made over ten thousand pompoms and posted her crafting decorations far and wide - Europe, North America and Australia. The post office got so used to her dropping by with her parcels, they started calling her Doctor PomPom.
decided to raise money to support their efforts.
All items can be posted or collected from the Vale Wildlife Hospital in Beckford. A small taster of what Charlotte has to offer is on sale in the hospital shop or through
her Instagram page for a wider selection @delightfulpompoms Charlotte donates ALL of the money raised to Vale Wildlife Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre. She hopes to continue supporting this amazing charity and to keep adding to her already impressive total of over £16,500.
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ARE
YOUR ACHES AND PAINS RELATED TO THE MENOPAUSE?
Mood swings, hot flushes, night sweats and difficulty sleeping aside, musculoskeletal pain in relatively common among menopausal women with around 60% developing joint of muscles aches and pains during menopause. But why does this happen?
Despite this high percentage, a recent survey reported that 42% of women had never discussed menopause symptoms with their GP, so let’s take a closer look!
It is all down to a hormone, Oestrogen. During the menopause Oestrogen levels slowly drop. Oestrogen is involved with pain modulation and helps reduce inflammation. As a result, when these levels drop, we see an increase in joint inflammation and pain. Recent studies have shown that menopausal women are more
likely to be diagnosed with a chronic pain condition. Oestrogen is also involved in joint cartilage and bone density and thus a reduction in this hormone can result in a weakening of bones and muscle.
However, there are some things your can do yourself to help.
• Low impact exercise such as swimming or cycling can help keep your joints and muscles strong.
• Weightbearing exercise such as walking can help maintain your bone density, keeping them strong and been shown
to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
• Gentle stretching such as Yoga or Pilates can help keep your muscles balanced.
• A healthy diet along with vitamin D, Calcium and Omega 3 can help keep your musculoskeletal system healthy.
• Improving your sleep by turning off screens or reducing caffeine intake a few hours before bed (a lack of sleep is linked to an increase in pain)
• Physical Therapy –your physiotherapist or osteopath can help you with exercises and get-
ting you moving more comfortably.
• And of course HRT can help with menopausal symptoms so talk to your GP about this if you haven’t already. Although menopause may well be the underlying culprit for your musculoskeletal aches and pains, this is certainly not the case for everyone and therefore it is important to always discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Dragon Vets Tewkesbury is fully equipped with a sterile operating theatre, digital radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory equipment. Drop in and have a look around. You will see many of the same friendly faces from our main surgery at Dragon Vets Cheltenham. You can book your visits and pick up pet supplies, food or medications at either surgery if it’s more convenient.
m Philippa Wingate
Clothing alterations? Sam the Tailor, is ready to help
With the prom season fast approaching, ensure
is a perfect fit. Tewkesbury Tailoring, is owned by Sam the Tailor, and is based within Monarch Dry Cleaners, at 8 Mitton Way Tewkesbury GL20 8AN, he makes alterations to all kinds of clothing, including skirts, jackets, shirts, wedding dresses, suede, leather, fur and curtains too.
Sam provides quality workmanship at affordable prices, so it makes sense to improve fit, add new life to favourite
items and to feel confident.
Sam says “If I can help you please pop in with your garment we can discuss any alterations together or I can collect and deliver within the Tewkesbury area if that helps.”
Tewkesbury Tailoring is open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 1pm. Call 07879 152212 or email: tewkesburytailoring@gmail.com
Quality Alteration Professionals
Prom Dresses, Wedding Dresses, Skirts, Jackets, Suits, Shirts and Curtains. We can pick up items to be altered from you and return to your door when completed, within the Tewkesbury area.
Open Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4pm Saturdays 9.30am - 1pm
We are within Monarch Dry Cleaners 8 Mitton Way, Tewkesbury. GL20 8AN Tel: 07379 152212 tewkesburytailoring@gmail.com Find us on Facebook ~ Tewkesbury Tailoring
m Sam The Tailor
Probus Club’s wartime commemoration
As the UK and our allies commemorated the 80th Anniversary of the D-day landings in June, it was particularly appropriate that Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club recently welcomed two speakers to talk about subjects specific to aspects of wartime.
The first of these was about the work of The Commonwealth War Graves Commission when their speaker William Cooper came to our Club to tell us of the wonderful work undertaken by the charity all over the world in every location where British military personnel have died serving their country in conflict.
The Commission was founded as the First World War was drawing to a close in 1917 and is supported by the governments of the UK, Canada, Australia, South Africa and India to honour the millions of men and women who lost their lives in two World Wars.
The Commission works in 150 countries around the world caring for the memorials, cemeteries and headstones, helping to ensure that the soldiers, sailors and airmen are never forgotten.
Still on the military theme, Sally Ferrers came to us with the second of her three-part history of
aviation, this time focusing on the aircraft of World War II.
Some of these are famous legends such as the Supermarine Spitfire, the Hawker Hurricane and the Avro Lancaster bomber and the De Havilland Mosquito, and from the USA the Mustang, the Lockheed Lightning and the Northrop Black Widow.
Sally covered not only allied aircraft but also those of Germany such as the Messerschmitt ME109 and the Focke-Wulf 190. She explained how each side vied with the
other to produce faster and more deadly machines and how towards the end of the war, both Britain and Germany started to introduce prototype jet fighters with their much higher speeds than the Spitfires and Messerschmitts. She revealed how the V1 and V2 rocket programmes began with their devastating attacks on London and how the rocket sites at Peenemunde were discovered and attacked by the RAF.
By Chris Brown for
Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club
Open-air theatre in Tewkesbury this July
The Roses Theatre is back in Victoria Gardens this summer to bring you an evening of open-air theatre with a hilarious take on Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Gather your friends and family, pack your picnic, and head to Victoria Gardens for a night of hilarious theatre under a warm summer sky (hopefully!) and prepare to laugh until your Oddsocks off!
On Sunday, July 14th, at 6.30pm, you can catch Oddsocks’ performance of Julius Caesar at Victoria Gardens, with tickets starting from £15. Oddsocks, one of the
UK’s best-loved touring theatre companies, travels around the country performing their humorous renditions of Shakespeare’s classics.
Known for their innovative approach,
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Oddsocks makes Shakespeare accessible and entertaining for all ages. Their performances are a delightful mix of clever dialogue, physical comedy, and unexpected twists. This performance of Julius Caesar promises to be no different.
Here’s how the story goes: Rome, 44 BC. Egotistical Emperor Julius Caesar is sweating (and it’s not just the heatwave). His liberal Senators are a stabbing pain in the backside. They’ve had enough! Rome is in chaos, trust in the government is weak, and the emper-
or’s fate is written in the stars (or the ‘entrails of a goat’). The peasants are revolting as the most famous political coup in literature is given the Oddsocks treatment. Expect the tearing of togas, the swishing of Roman swords, some preposterous puppetry, and the biggest battle scene five actors have ever created.
Make sure to dress appropriately, Oddsocks perform regardless of the weather, as long as it is safe to do so, so bring a brolly and a sense of adventure. You can also bring a low-backed chair or rug.
On site you will be able to access toilets as well as, a pop-up box office, and a selection of drinks and snacks if you’d prefer not to carry too much with you.
On your marcus, getus setus, let the games begin!
Date and Time: July 14th, 6:30 PM
Location: Victoria Gardens, Mill Street, Tewkesbury, UK GL20 5SP
Tickets: £15 – £20
To purchase tickets or to find out more information, visit www. rosestheatre.org/events/ oddsocks-julius-caesar
BY THE WATERS OF WITCOMBE
There has been much speculation recently about the possible change of name from the Borough of Tewkesbury to North Gloucestershire - reflecting the true nature of the area, writes Jack B Walker.
Parts of the council district are indeed closer to Gloucester or Cheltenham, and when reading articles on the internet
about the current debate, I was reminded of this delightful walk in the south eastern corner of the borough.
Distance: approx.
Car Parking: with consideration to residents/congregation, by Great Witcombe Church.
Refreshments: The Twelve Bells Inn, Witcombe Sketch Map not to scale - for guidance only. OS Explorer Map No. 179 (Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud) is recommended to cover the route.
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It starts from the village of Great Witcombe, and passes three lovely reservoirs, before climbing up to the wooded edge of the Cotswold scarp.
Park with care and consideration next to the delightful little Grade 1 listed church of St. Mary. Walk back along the lane, passing Church Farm and turn into the lane on the left, then over a rather awkward stile on the right (1) into a field. Walk across the field passing the lovely gardens at the rear of Witcombe Farm, and climb up to cross over a stile at the top of a bank by the livery stables (2).
Witcombe Reservoirs were constructed in the 1860s to provide water for the city of Gloucester. They are fed by natural springs in the area.
Cross over the dam between two reservoirs, and take the lane to the left of a former waterworks house - which is now somewhat overgrown (3)
Follow the lane along the side of the lake, then upwards keeping the field boundary to your left. There are often cattle in these fields - so leave dogs on leads at all times.
As you rise up, following the waymarker arrows, the path passes to the left of Witcombe Roman Villa to reach a gate at the edge Coopers Hill Wood (4). To visit the villa, don’t enter the wood but turn right, keeping the trees to your left, then go through a kissing gate and along a narrow path past farm buildings (5)
Built in the second to third centuries AD, Witcombe Roman Villa was unearthed in 1818 and excavated shortly afterwards. The ruins are in the stewardship of English Heritage: for details see www.englishheritage.org.uk
After visiting the villa, retrace your steps
UTILITA ARENA, BIRMINGHAM
3 July: Heart with special guests Squeeze 16 July: Megan Thee Stallion www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk
to point (4), go through the gate into the woods, walk on up to meet the Cotswold Way, and turn left along it (6)
At certain times of year there are good views from the woods, down across Great Witcombe to Bentham and beyond. After a little over half a mile on the Cotswold Way, turn left down a bridleway (7) and continue along it as it descends through several fields, to meet a track running up from Witcombe Park to Green Farm (8). Bear right and skirt the edge the buildings at Witcombe Park to meet a lane.
Turn left (9) and walk back up the lane to return to the church in Great Witcombe.
PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM 17-21 July: High School Musical www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk
GUILDHALL, GLOUCESTER 31 August: Mind, Body & Spirit Show www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD 11 July: Howerd’s End www.courtyard.org.uk
MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY 3, 5 & 6 July: Ledbury Poetry Festival 12 July: The Very Grimm Brothers Unlocked www.themarkettheatre.com
MALVERN THEATRES 9-13 July: What The Butler Saw 24-27 July: Fiddler On The Roof www.malvern-theatres.co.uk
RSC STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Until 7 September: The Merry Wives of Windsor www.rsc.org.uk
Unfortunately, the battle also turned Edwin into a fatal casualty.
I am still not sure exactly how he died but it was reported that the H.Q. mortar platoon, sited in a field behind Baron Church, came under “very heavy small arms fire”. Perhaps Edwin’s life was extinguished by that sniper, who was one of “a complete phobia of the Allied troops”.
The aim was to capture Caen on DDay 2, but it took until 19 July until it was captured – with 30,000 AngloCanadian soldiers killed and 3,000 of the towns inhabitants. L./Cpl. Davis’ loss was part of the price.
In the Register report of his death on 22 July 1944, Mrs. Davis expressed the hope “to hear in the future the name of the ruined church in the churchyard of which her husband was laid to rest”.
Mrs. Davis had moved to South Africa, in 1949 as a lady’s companion. There she met and married an Englishman, Alfred Dowe by whom she had a son, Jimmy. By 2004, I had visited his grave and place of death but, unfortunately, I was too late to fulfil the wish of Mrs. Davis.
If you have any information about local servicemen who served in Normandy, please contact president ths@gmail.com
(The full article can be read in THS Bulletin 14 (2005) and is also available online at tewkesburyhistory.org/ docs/BiogsWW2/Davies-e-j1944.pdf. In this research I was grateful to his relation by marriage, Reg. Eastman and to the KSLI Museum, Shrewsbury. His name is sometimes spelled Davis or Davies.) John Dixon
THS WOODARD AWARD, MAY 2024
The Society would like to congratulate Joanne Raywood for winning this award for the second time for her article, Two Views of the Severn Ham, in THS Bulletin 32 (2023).
Judged independently by Dr Steven Blake and David Aldred of the Gloucestershire Association of Local History, it is considered the most successfully researched and written article of that publication –which was praised for its consistently high quality.
This bulletin can be obtained from Alison’s Bookshop in theHigh Street, or via www.tewkesburyhistory.org/shop .
John Dixon, President.
2.5 miles; steady climb past Roman Villa to reach Cotswold Way.
