Tewkesbury Direct Magazine March 2023

TEWKESBURY LIVE FESTIVAL TO RETURN

Tewkesbury’s fabulous free live music festival - which was such a resounding success last year - is set to return this summer. Spread throughout pubs and venues in the town, Tewkesbury Live will take place from Friday 28th until Sunday 30th July.

Among the bands performing this year are The Achievers, Spunge, Jibbafish, The Swamp Stomp String Band and the Soul Destroyers.

Read more about this exciting event on page 18.

Another popular live band, the Delray Rockets, are heading for the area next month. They will be playing a the Teddfest Truck Show on Saturday 22nd April.

The two day event at The Hut, Teddington Hands (GL20 8NE) looks set to attract truck enthusiasts from a wide area. Admission is £6, payable on the gate.

Also returning to Tewkesbury is wrestling - with several bouts taking place at the Watson Hall from 7.00pm on Saturday 15th April. See southwestwrestling.co.uk

STUNNING NEW LANDMARK IN GRETTON

Rather than felling a tree which had stood outside the Royal Oak in Gretton for centuries, the pub’s owners decided to create something special - and appropriate.

The Royal Oak pub name, one of the commonest in Britain, is generally attributed to marking the time King Charles II hid in an oak tree to escape the parliamentary forces pursuing him.

Charles fled after his Royalist troops were defeated at the battle of Worcester in 1651and legend has it that he took refuge in an oak tree at Boscobel House in Shropshire.

The oak (pictured above) stands at the front of the Royal Oak at Gretton, an inn which dates back to the eighteenth century. The dying tree was becoming dangerous. It has now been transformed into a magnificent sculpture of the Charles II (who escaped to Europe before being crowned in 1660), complete with Roundhead soldier carved into the trunk - and a squirrel at the end of one bough.

See more photos on Page 6

The Colony

by Audrey Magee Paperback £8.99

This book was longlisted for the 2022 Booker Prize, and is my best book of the year for 2022. Very readable, with an unusual storyline that is somewhat hidden by the synopsis on the jacket. So do look beyond that!

The Colony of the title is a small island off the west coast of Ireland where the Irish language is still spoken.

On to this island arrives English artist Mr Lloyd. His outward voyage to the island, graphically described, opens the book with dramatic effect!

He settles into a rudimentary cottage which is not ideal as a studio for his planned summer of creativity. Later he finds an alternative ruin which the island folk help make habitable and he moves between the two buildings.

After a few days another solitary figure has arrived but he is known to the islanders, Frenchman Mr Masson a mature student of linguistics has been visiting for the last five years studying how the Irish language is surviving and evolving on the island. The arrival of an English speaking artist he sees as a threat to his whole doctorial research over the recent summers.

Lloyd finds Masson a noisy intrusive distraction, their two rented cottages being close to each other. Masson proclaiming the expansion of spoken English totally unacceptable. The situation in part improves when Lloyd spends most of his time away in his alternative studio. Their meetings over dinner tables are always cool and discourteous; a frostiness the author manages to fester consistently throughout the book.

There are a mixture of islanders who are essential to the story. Teenager James [Seamus] who befriends Lloyd and rather than going out fishing eventually spends a lot of his summer, between catching rabbits for the stews, drawing and painting; seemingly having a natural ability as Lloyd pro-

materials, but no tutorage.

His mother, widowed Mairead, and James' grandmother and great grandmother are all major characters, and are crucial to Masson's studies of the dying language and the Frenchman has built up a good relationship over the years with each of the women.

Two males are regular visitors to the island, Micheal, who operates the boat crossings and provides supplies and James's uncle Francis. Both join the household for meals around the communal table witnessing some of Lloyd's and Masson's exchanges. The island itself, it's geography and surroundings are also significant throughout the pages, whilst the other ageing population are sometimes seen but not heard. Against this background the events of the summer of 1979 across the waters in Northern Ireland separate the chapters, so the atrocities of that summer in the adjoining country permeate into the tranquility of island life. These brief insertions are very moving.

We learn the lives of all the main individuals, how their lives interconnect, their loves, losses dreams and memories come to drive the events of the summer to a conclusion all condensed into an originally written novel which I can only heartily recommend.

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

PILATES IS SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE

If you are interested in any of the courses please contact Shelley for more information on 07432 852744 email

Positive Pilates: celebrating 21 years in Tewkesbury

Pilates appeals to all, due to the fact that the workout aids in flexibility, mobility, lengthening and strengthening the body.

In addition to increased flexibility, it's also said to prevent injury and improve posture. It strengthens and shapes the body from the inside out. To those who practice Pilates, the body isn't the only area benefiting. Pilates also aids in balancing the mind and body,reducing stress and anxiety.

Pilates has become popular with people who take part in sport, mothers looking to regain their pre-baby state and the senior generation, to facilitate the ability to carry out daily tasks more easily.

Shelley Wilkinson, whose Tewkesbury Business Positive Pilates is celebrating 21 years of business in the town, is passionate about teaching clients to move well.

She only teaches Pilates and has personally practised the Pure Pilates method for over 20 years, more importantly Shelley is now witnessing the benefits it brings to her clients.

Teaching to small

groups so that everyone gets some individual attention when needed, whether that is to modify an exercise or to add progression.

Not all exercises suit everyone and in Shelley’s classes you are treated as an individual.

“My focus is quality movement not quantity, in order to rebalance and restore functional core strength and stability,” said Shelley.

“Through mindful movement, you can help to relieve your aches and pains,improve your form within your chosen sport or hobby and reduce your risk of injury.”

Shelley truly believes that everyone would benefit from some pilates in their life, to invest in your body for the future.

“The best project you’ll ever work on is you!”

Call Shelley Wilkinson on 07432-852744, email positivepilates@gmail.co m or visit www.positivepilateslocal.co.uk for more information.

Fitting carpets in the homes of Tewkesbury for over 30 years

At Cleeve Motor Company in Tewkesbury, they know that buying a car can be a stressful experience.

Owner Sam Tomkins said: “There’s so much choice and different ways of buying it can often seem overwhelming.

“We are here to simplify things and help find the right car for you. Your local car dealer is here to make sure you’re looked after every step of the way from initial enquiry to after sales.

“Our carefully sourced vehicles are fully HPI clear and subject to an independent 50 point inspection.

If you’re thinking of selling your car please call

“A service will be carried out where required and all cars have a minimum of ten months MOT. We give three months warranty as standard and this can be extended for extra peace of mind. We offer flexible finance options to suit a range of credit backgrounds.

If you’re not looking to buy a new car and just want to sell yours please give us a call. Please read our five star Google and Autotrader reviews to see what other customers say about us.” For further information please email sam@cleevemotorcompany.co.uk

New Lumina

F82 Bifold Doors. Fusing inside with out, in style

Just one of the innovative new products we’re launching in our 40th year

Since 1983, Clearway have been helping customers make the most of their homes. To celebrate our fortieth year, we’re launching an exciting new range of products - like the new Lumina F82 Bi-fold doors. With larger glazed areas, enhanced insulation qualities, ultra-slim lightness and a panoramic view, these doors will flood your living space with light and warmth. We’re proud to welcome the F82 to our range, which includes:

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

• Sliding doors

• Bi-fold doors

• Sash and casement windows

• Flat roof lights and lanterns

• Composite doors

• Secondary glazing

• ‘Aluspace’ Art-Deco style internal screening

• Display cabinets

“Just wanted to email to thank you for the fab service we received from all sections of your company throughout the process of purchasing our new windows and doors. We have saw the whole spectrum of customer service whilst our building work took place….yours is one of the companies that stood out in terms of great customer service. We will be heartily recommending you to others.” - JJ, Cheltenham (November 2022)

Showroom Opening Times: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

Clearway Doors & Windows, Manor Park Business Centre, MacKenzie Way, Cheltenham GL51 9TX

Sam Tomkins

Tewkesbury Art Society

Tewkesbury Art Society meets in The Watson Hall on Barton Street every Tuesday morning from 10am until 12noon.

If you have an interest in art, whether a beginner or someone with more experience, Tewkesbury Art Society is the place for you.

Please visit us at The Watson Hall to see for yourself - you will be welcome to have a free session to see how you like us. For those of you feeling nervous about starting there are plenty of members on hand to give advice and help you get underway.

We work on our own projects using acrylics, oils, watercolour and pastels but also have regular demonstrations and workshops by established artists. During the summer months there is also the opportunity to paint en plein air at venues in the surrounding area.

Have we aroused your curiosity? Then do come along, between 10am and 12noon one Tuesday morning, to The Watson Hall to see what we do, meet some of our members and hopefully, join the Society.

LOCAL ARTIST OPENS ONLINE SHOP

Jane Ware, a full-time creative artist from Aston Cross, near Tewkesbury, has opened an online Etsy Shop to showcase her artwork.

Jane, who is an active member of Kemerton W.I, left her job in finance to follow her dream.

“It's been a tough few years, as, during Covid lockdowns, I had several exhibitions cancelled, and a whole studio of paintings with nowhere to publicly display them,” said Jane.

“I remained proactive, optimistic and cheerfully positive, knowing that better days would come, and they did.

“With the help of my

son, we created an Etsy shop to showcase my original art, signed prints, cards, and seasonal crafts.

“I was looking for somewhere with a professional presentation, where all items could be individually displayed with clear detailed descriptions and easy purchase options - Etsy is perfect for this.”

Jane’s artworks are inspired by Cotswold landmarks, Jazz culture, café conversations, and holiday memories - from seagulls in St Ives to sunsets in South Africa.

“Painting mainly in watercolour and ink, I also enjoy experimenting with colourful acrylics and developing vibrant New York cityscapes from visits to my daughter in New York,” Jane added.

“I will be adding new artworks to the shop each week, so please keep checking regularly to choose a favourite, thank you. (In addition I offer free postage and packing to all purchasers within the UK).”

Jane’s shop is at etsy.com/uk/shop/Jane WareArt

In addition to selling online, Jane has recently completed a six week

exhibition at No.8 Arts Centre in Pershore, and will be exhibiting locally this Spring and Summer. She will be at Showborough House Sculpture Exhibition as one of the Garden Room Artists, from 4th May18th June (ThursdaySunday from 10.30am to 4.00pm). Showborough House is near Twyning, north of Tewkesbury.

From 3rd June until 9th July Jane’s work will be displayed at the National Trust’s Hidcote Manor Garden in the Cotswolds (10am-4pm) and also at Art in the Park (Imperial Gardens, Cheltenham) 17th June16th July.

For enquiries, please contact Jane via email:janewareart@hotmail.com

Easter at Ripple

There will be an Easter Extravaganza at Ripple Village Hall on Saturday 1st April.

The free event begins at 10am with crafts, cakes and bakes, knitted goods, chocolate, jams, marmalade and honey, plus face painting for the children and young at heart.

You can also celebrate the season and enjoy a convivial chat at ‘elevenses’ with cake, tea or coffee.

Jane Ware with one of her original works of art, Manhattan Sunset.

Mothers Day Pamper

Treat your mum to our Body2Soul Holistic Facial

For only £40 instead of £45

Fancy a little extra?

Add either one of the following add-ons to your treat for only £10 Express Manicure or Express Pedicure Offer available during March 2023

Body2Soul welcomes a new member of the team

Please welcome Rachael Pike, who is now working every Tuesday from 10am until 8pm

We will be offering 20% off all massage/body treatments and monu facials with her during March only. Includes our massage/facial combination treatments. Excludes Indian Head Massage. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Contact us now to book your appointment in March to guarantee the offer.

“I am an experienced Massage Therapist and Reflexologist. In my time I have been lucky enough to work in some of the best spas in the country, so I am also qualified in facials, relaxation massage and other body treatments. I have worked in local Chiropractic clinics as a Sports and Remedial Massage Therapist and am just completing Level 5 Soft Tissue Therapy at Oxford School of Sports Massage. This qualification will allow me to assess and treat injuries and give rehabilitation advice. I specialize in Deep Tissue Massage and Sports Massage”

Boost 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 £1.80. Bottles are £11.50

complimentary

Planning an event this year?

her

TEWKESBURY COMMONS

Are you entitled to a share of the income from sheep grazing on the Severn Ham?

Those entitled are the successors of people who had a right of common before the Tewkesbury Inclosure Act of 1808 was passed (which vested those rights in Trustees to distribute the income derived from grazing on the Severn Ham).

The Trust now applies to those who are the occupiers of a property in which they dwell and which was in existence in 1808, has not been substantially altered and has a frontage to the High Street (in its entire-

ty), Barton Street (the Cross to Chance Street on the North side and to the Hospital entrance on South side) and Church Street (the Cross to the Bell Hotel). A house that is a continuance of an ancient one as above also qualifies.

In the case of a property that contains a shop or business, the property does not qualify unless the owner or tenant of the shop or business lives on the premises. Houses that are occupied by not more than two families could qualify if

the original dwelling remains substantially as it was in 1808. Only one share would apply to the main property.

If you have not been in receipt of payments from the Trust hitherto, or not been in contact with me in 2022 to make a claim, and you think you meet these conditions, please make contact in writing with the undersigned by the end of April 2023.

By M Cornwell-Kelly Clerk to the Trustees mozartkelly@btinternet.com

Forthampton GL19 4RE

01684

293224

Only ten minutes walk from Tewkesbury Town Centre. By road from Tewkesbury take the A438 to Ledbury and turn off to Forthampton. At

POS FITTER/INSTALLER VACANCIES – IMMEDIATE STARTS AVAILABLE

We are a national POS installations and merchandising Company established in 1957. We operate out of facilities in Gloucestershire and cover nationwide installations serving a comprehensive portfolio of blue chip clients. Our Teams work in a variety of retail outlets installing new equipment and signage creating an exciting appealing shopping experience for the customer.

We are looking for confident, self-motivated, well-presented individuals to join our growing business, and to help us meet ambitious customer targets. We need people who are flexible – working away from home and at weekends is essential as is travelling nationwide.

You will possess –

• Good communication skills representing the Company.

• Initiative to get the job done to a good standard – methodically and accurately.

• Confidence in interacting with others when working in a team.

• A good tool kit with some basic trade skills i.e. carpentry, assembly, fixing (an advantage).

• Current driving license.

• CSCS qualification.

In return we offer –

• OTE of circa £35,000 subject to experience and skills.

• Accommodation arranged and paid for and subsistence payments given for overnight stays.

• Company sick pay scheme.

• Mandatory training and in-house training enabling you to be the best you can be within your profession. In the first instance please email BSheppard@adinstall.co.uk

New Kitchen Feeling…

CASAGEES IS LOOKING FOR A TEWKESBURY FRANCHISEE!

COUPLE Rachael Willoughby and Elliott Richmond have taken their lockdown side hustle CasaGees - making and delivering traditional Neapolitan pizzas - and turned it into a successful business.

The pair, who live in Cleeve near Cheltenham, are now looking for a couple or family in the Tewkesbury area who would be interested in doing the same!

Elliott, who was brought up in Malta has always loved pizza – done the Italian way. He has become famous among his friends for his tasty pizzas even though he has run a successful web development company with Rachael for more than 20 years. As with many owners of small businesses, they lost a big chunk of their family income overnight when the country went into lockdown in March 2020.

“We were chatting about it in bed and Rachael said perhaps now was the time to take my pizzas out on the road. We decided to give it a go for three months to help us through that tricky time and we had the website, booking system and logistics in place within three weeks.

“Here we are nearly three years later, offering pizzas two nights a week and we make on average £2,000 profit each month.

“We increased both the quantity and choices

on our menu and we’ve also built relationships with a couple of local businesses. Our pizzas are high end, traditional Neapolitan style (no pineapples ever!).”

This experience has led the couple to set up

can all muck in to make it work. Each franchisee will be able to work from home and will deliver to a four mile radius of their kitchen.

The successful franchisee will be asked for an initial investment of

CasaGees (‘casa’ meaning ‘home’ in Italian) as a franchise aimed at couples who love cooking and who are looking for extra income, a business which works around caring responsibilities, or a family who

£7,000 which will include training and the kit they need. The first four franchisees will get a 25 per cent discount on this start-up fee.

For more information visit www.casageesfranchise.co.uk.

m Rachael & Elliott, founders of CasaGees

Newtown WI

We all braved the awful January weather to enjoy our annual January lunch at the Hunters Inn, Longdon, a good afternoon was had by all.

Our February meeting was both informative and entertaining. John Dixon asked ‘where did you get your first pair of nylons from’ and went on to talk about the impact the American army had in on local ladies when they came to Ashchurch army camp in 1942.

There were a few marriages between American GIs and local girls, as well as one between a German POW and a local

lady. There were quite a few black soldiers based there, who were looked down on and given menial jobs and only allowed into pubs in Tewkesbury on certain nights.

camp by the Canterbury Arms??

At our next meeting on the 8th March, we have Mark Cummings from Radio Gloucester coming along to chat to us.

Tewkesbury Borough Council

It was really a very fascinating talk and opened our eyes to a different time in history. Who knew there was a POW

We are a very friendly group and would love to welcome you to our meetings which take place on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Wheatpieces Community Centre starting at 2 pm. If you are interested in joining us, just come along, we would love to see you, or you can contact Julie Pullen on 01684 301267 or by email at pullenj53@ sky.com.

We are here to listen and learn about you and your business and help to make the complicated understandable. We will give you professional advice, and ensure you meet your accountancy and taxation compliance needs.

Unit 29, Basepoint Business Centre

Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 8SD

Tel 01684 854414

Mob 07767 890699

Email info@devereux-hunt.co.uk

MITTON £575,000

A large contemporary styled detached bungalow with a large detached garage; 4/5 bedrooms; study; Lounge; beautiful, modern kitchen/dining/family room; utility; brick outbuilding; attractive gardens; ample driveway parking; EPC tbc; Tax Band E.

KEMERTON £500,000

APPERLEY PARK £465,000

WALTON CARDIFF £379,950

Modern, immaculately presented, single storey barn conversion in this sought after village; gas central heating; 3 bedrooms; ensuite; contemporary bathroom; modern fitted kitchen; large lounge with log burner; garden; garage and parking; Tax Band E; EPC E.

TWYNING

£395,000

NEWTOWN

Detached modern home within this popular residential area with the advantage of a detached garage great attic space. 3 good sized bedrooms; main bedroom with ensuite shower room; lounge with patio doors to the garden; separate dining room; modern kitchen; guest wc; wide garden plot, ample driveway parking. Tax Band D; EPC C.

TWYNING £345,000

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

With an exceptionally large garden plot, this detached home is always very spacious. 4 double bedrooms; main with ensuite; lounge; separate dining room; home office; kitchen; utility room; guest wc; double garage; driveway parking; gas central heating; upvc double glazing; EPC tba; Tax Band E.

Located within a small cul de sac of similar detached homes, within walking distance of Twyning Green. 4 bedrooms - large open plan lounge/dining room; study; guest wc; utility room; attached double garage; attractive walled garden. Views to Bredon Hill. Tax Band E; EPC E.

14 - TEWKESBURY DIRECT

With a larger than average garden, this semi detached house is beautifully presented throughout. Long driveway providing parking for at least 3 cars; single garage with power and light; 3 bedrooms, main bedroom with ensuite; modern kitchen/dining room; utility area; guest wc; Tax Band C; EPC B.

OLDFIELD £325,000

A delightful location for this beautifully presented and maintained home. 3 double bedrooms; kitchen/dining room; large lounge; contemporary styled bathroom; garage store; modern landscaped garden; driveway parking; gas central heating; upvc windows; EPC C Tax Band C.

TEWKESBURY £290,000

Detached, modern and stylish 3 bedroom home with a detached single garage. Attractive low maintenance rear garden; gated rear access; ground floor wc; lounge; separate dining room; modern kitchen; ensuite to main bedroom; contemporary styled bathroom; EPC C; Tax Band D.

TEWKESBURY £290,000

Beautifully light and spacious semi detached home with lovely gardens. Offroad parking for 3 cars; 4 double bedrooms; lounge with open fire; separate dual aspect dining room; modern kitchen; large utility room; ground floor shower room; upstairs bathroom; EPC tba; Tax Band C.

ASHCHURCH £275,000

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

NORTHWAY £187,500

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

WEBBER HOUSE £155,000

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

A great 3 bedroom mid terrace home with the advantage of backing onto the rail line at the rear to give a real sense of open countryside. Kitchen/dining room; separate lounge; modern bathroom; pretty garden; 2 allocated parking spaces; gas central heating; upvc double glazing; EPC C; Tax Band B.

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

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

WALTON CARDIFF £325,000

NEWTOWN £325,000

WALTON CARDIFF SSTC

ORCHARD COURT - ON THE EDGE OF THE BOROUGH

Orchard Court isn’t a conventional alley. For many years, it formed part of the boundary of the borough, and appears to have once been a road towards Gloucester which bypassed the town centre. It joined Saffron Road, which aligns to the Iron Bridge and a path to the south. John Rogers, alley historian, remembers it as a country lane in the nineteenth century, with green hedges on either side. It is named for the large orchard which once occupied the hospital and surgery site. There was a stile at the bottom of the lane until 1901. In 1866 two lads, Hen-

ry Brown and Charles Oakey, were fined 1s (5p) each for smearing filth on the stile, but as their parents couldn’t afford to pay they were given a week’s hard labour instead.

In 1841 there were nine occupied dwellings

in the court, housing forty-six people. These reduced by stages. By 1900, it had reduced to seven, through the conversion of four houses to two. At the end of 1937, the court was included in the slum clearance schedule. Only three

dwellings were targeted. All at the lower, southern, end of the court. They were demolished in 1939, leaving the four that are there today.

The first public sewers in Tewkesbury, laid in the 1860s, ran through Orchard Court, which was the widest route from the town centre, to run alongside the Swilgate to Lower Lode Lane.

For some fifty years, in the middle of the nineteenth century, three generations of the Cooper and Cull family ran a school from the court. In 1880, when Alfred Cull took over from his sister Cecelia, he advertised it as a ‘Boys Middle Class School’.

Orchard Court’s best remembered resident, though, must be Granny Key; Nurse Rosa Key, who was the town’s midwife, delivering well over

600 babies. The last was during the war, when she was eighty years old.

At the end of the nineteenth century, Mr Papps, draper, had a house built in his orchard, which was entered by a gate in Orchard Court. This brought a great deal

The gates from Orchard Court were opened for visitors, which was probably the busiest day of the court’s long existence.

In 1945, as Prior’s Park was being extended, a proposal to build a road through Orchard

of activity to the court, with garden parties and, when Mr Willis, baker, bought the house it became home to the Orchard Court Tennis Club.

Vincent Yorke, president of the Hospital, bought Orchard House, as a site for the town’s new hospital. After a period of fundraising, including the 1931 pageant, work was able to start in 1934, preceded on 13th October by a foundation stone being laid by Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone and granddaughter of Queen Victoria.

Court, to join Queens Road was very seriously considered but eventually rejected in favour of Oldfield and Link Road. The court was saved because of concern about disruption to the hospital. A path from the Court to Prior’s Park was created, though, with a footbridge, designed to provide a route above the floods. This was the recently demolished ‘Legion’ bridge. A very different history to that of the town centre alleys, but an interesting and important one nevertheless.

The Power Autos Team, Jake, Ersi, Ashley, and Rebecca

m Orchard Court

Ashchurch Road £495,000

Elmbury Drive £340,000

Knights Way £310,000

This well presented EXTENDED THREE BEDROOM semi detached family home, located on the popular residential area of Newtown, with scope to further extend to the side subject to planning permission.

Falcon Road £285,000

A fantastic opportunity to acquire this beautiful example of an EXTENDED 3 BEDROOM family home, offered to the market in gorgeous condition and ready to move into immediately.

Welcome to Langley Grove in Twyning, a beautiful home in a popular riverside village, with 2 BEDROOMS, en suite to principal bedroom. off road parking and rear garden.

Howard Road £270,000

Margaret Road £240,000

Hawthorn Way £225,000

Set in the popular residential estate of Northway, this 3 BEDROOM end of terrace home with garden and off road parking is not too be missed.

High Street £219,950

East Street

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

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

Welcome to Ashchurch Road, a beautifully spacious 4/5 BEDROOM Victorian home, a short stroll from Tewkesbury town centre.

Situated within a popular area of Newtown, sits this beautiful 3 BEDROOM, semi-detached family home.

An exciting opportunity to purchase an end terraced 3 BEDROOM family home, situated on a large corner plot with the added benefit of a garage.

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a large 2 BEDROOM end of terrace home, originally a three bedroom home, but the bedroom has now been converted to accommodate a large upstairs bathroom.

A 3 BEDROOM semi detached family home, located on the popular development of Walton Cardiff.

Warren Road £285,000

Langley Grove £280,000

£210,000

A beautiful 3 BEDROOM cottage, located close to the main High Street of Tewkesbury town and with a pretty cottage garden.

Mount Pleasant £180,000

A beautiful ONE BEDROOM town cottage, at the back of Mount Pleasant, in the centre of Tewkesbury town with lovely rear garden.

Full of original features and character with a wealth of traditional beams running throughout the property, this Grade II listed 2 BEDROOM terrace property is located in the heart of Tewkesbury town centre.

Tewkesburys free music festival returns in July

Tewkesbury Live – free music festival is set to return to the town this July following the massive success of the inaugural event in 2022.

The three-day festival of live music in the town’s pubs and venues will take place on Friday 28th – Sunday 30th July. The number of events has increased to over, almost double the fun!

The festival will also see the return of free family activities including children’s craft activities, a variety of music workshops and dance/fitness taster sessions.

Simon Raywood, Tewkesbury Town Mayor said: “I’m delighted that Tewkesbury Live will be returning in 2023. I don’t think any of us could have predicted the huge success of the music festival in its first year.

“I’d like to thank everybody who donated at the festival last year, all individuals and organisations that have sponsored the event and Tewkesbury Borough Council for their Covid19 Community recovery grant.

“This has enabled us to respond to the many requests for the festival to be held again in 2023 and for even more events.’

The festival is organised by Tewkesbury Town Council and has been funded by sponsorship, donations, and grant funding.

If you or your busi-

ness are interested in helping fund future festivals, please get in touch with the Town Council by email to: events@tewkesburytowncouncil.gov.uk

THE BRIGHTEST EVENT OF THE YEAR

Walkers will assemble at the National Star College in Ullenwood on Sunday 26th March, for a sponsored walk in the Cotswolds.

The 12km undulating circular route will give participants the opportunity to soak up the stunning views along the Cotswold Way, and take in the sunrise.

All money raised will go towards National Star’s Building a Brighter Future Appeal, to construct much needed accommodation for young people with complex disabilities at Ullenwood.

Registration will take place at 5.15am, with the walk setting off an hour later. The registration fee is £20 for adults and £10 for children. Each walker is encouraged to raise at least £50 in sponsorship.

For more details or to register, visit nationalstar.org/sunrise walk, or call 01242 524478

Ladies, an invitation to run and get healthy

Tewkesbury Lady Runners will be celebrating their 10 Year Anniversary next month and have a beginners and returners course, on Sunday 16th April.

The friendly group invites any ladies, all ages, shapes and abilities, to come along, the group meets every Sunday at 9am in Tewkesbury’s Spring Gardens car park.

A spokesperson said “If you can run 5k or more, there will be no need to join the beginners, come and run with the main group straight away! We are a mixed ability group, our focus is on running to get moving, and enjoy it”.

Lady Runners of Tewkesbury

We are a friendly running group for ladies of all shapes, ages and abilities.

Every Sunday at 9am spring Gardens Car Park Joint beginner/returners course starts 16th April

Email LROT0312@gmail.com for more info.

Tewkesbury Town Band

invite you to join us for our Afternoon Tea Concert

Sunday 5th March 2023 at 3pm at the Watson Hall, Tewkesbury Tickets £8 on the door.

SHOW AREA 9

m 26TH MARCH

MALVERN MILITARIA FAIR

WHAT’S

TEWKESBURY

REPAIR CAFÉTewkesbury Repair Cafe was started in July 2017 by a team of about 15 volunteers. Repair Cafes are free events where people who have items in need of repair are put in touch with people who have the skills and passion to repair items. This can include: clothes, furniture, electrical and electronic items to name a few. Items are repaired for free but customers are asked to cover the cost of any parts used and are encouraged to make a donation to cover our running costs. The Repair Cafe relies on volunteers to operate.

We are always interested in hearing from people who would like to join our team. We require people with a wide range of skills from admin/ Front of House, to making and serving teas and coffees and of course to undertaking repairs. No previous experience is necessary, so long as you have an interest, our existing volunteers help to support and train new volunteers.

If you would like to find out more please contact admin_team @tewkesburyrepaircafe. co.uk or alternatively pay us a visit. Next session due Saturday 18th March. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm. Please double check before travelling.

GREENER TOGETHER EVENTS - Wednesday 22nd March Tewkesbury Library - Canal and River Trust School Workshops.

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

PRIOR’S PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD PROJECT (PPNP)Warm Space Hub Wednesdays 10am–2pm, free coffee, tea and a safe place to relax. Crafty Nature Community Monthly group meet ups - Learn ways to utilise materials from home and in nature to create arts and crafts. Meet every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10am–11.30am. For more information on either, call James Baker, CCP on 07593446894 or 01684 290069. Venue: PPNP, Jubilee II, York Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU

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

WARM AND WELCOME SPACESLook out for information about local spaces such as the Town Hall, Watson Hall, Library, Baptist Church, PPNP and others. It’s a good way to keep warm and many are offering fun, free activities. Cate has been hosting ‘Daytime Discos’ with George at the Watson Hall, next one: 21st March, 1-5pm. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy the music! (swing dance music). Free event - all welcome.

Open Sunday 19th March 10am-4pm

Quality Flowers, Bouquets and Arrangements Balloons | Chocolates | Wine

A Castle of Steam in the Cotswolds

The locomotive in question is Great Western Railway ‘Castle’ class no. 4079, named Pendennis Castle and is appearing by courtesy of the Great Western Society at Didcot Railway Centre.

This will ne one of its first visits to a heritage railway, since returning to steam following its stay in Australia from

1977 and repatriated in 2000.

The event, organised by the railway’s volunteers from Friday 12th to Sunday 14th May, is being run in conjunction with Trackside magazine, launched just two years ago as the journal of railway preservation.

The Festival’s theme is ‘Cheltenham and Gloucester Steam Days’.

In the halcyon days of steam, the Castle class locomotives were in charge of the most important express services from and through Cheltenham and Gloucester, including the ‘Cheltenham Spa Express’ to London Paddington.

This train, known popularly as the Cheltenham Flyer, was deservedly advertised by the Great Western Railway as the ‘fastest train in the world’ smashing records with a time from Swindon to Paddington of 56 mins 47 seconds at an average speed of 81.6 miles per hour, hauled by Tregenna Castle.

The only named express to run over what is today the GWSR, ‘The Cornishman’ between Wolverhampton and Penzance, was also usually hauled by a Castle class engine. Castles were also in charge of the heavy race specials from Paddington to Cheltenham Racecourse for the Cheltenham Festival.

Ian Crowder, the railway’s spokesman, commented: “We are thrilled to have Pendennis Castle visit our railway for the first time,” “It surely

should be as famous as Flying Scotsman – after all, it has, like that engine, circumnavigated the world.

With up to eight steam locomotives running it will offer an action-packed timetable of trains, including goods trains and shunting demonstrations at the GWSR’s Toddington Station. The award-winning heritage railway operates steam and classic diesel services over a fourteen mile route through the Cotswolds, from Broadway in the north to Cheltenham Race Course in the south.

The locomotive and carriage & wagon workshops will throw open their doors for rare behind-the-scenes visits and there will be plenty of other activity at the railway’s stations.

One other visiting locomotive has been confirmed for the event: Standard class 4 4-6-0 no. 75014 Braveheart, appearing by courtesy of the Dartmouth Steam Railway and which will be on the GWSR for three months from March.

Tickets for the Festival are available online at www.gwsr.com

An ‘A-list’ steam locomotive is to take top billing at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s (GWSR) Cotswold Festival of Steam in May.

Pendennis Castle

An invite to Gardeners Question

Time, in Bushley

By Tim Perry

We are pleased to be able to welcome Reg Moule, well known for his words of wisdom on local radio, to Bushley Cricket Club once again for a Gardeners’ Question Time evening.

Reg has been to us several times before and returns after a three year absence due to covid.

His entertaining and informative chat covers any gardening problems brought up

by the audience in amazing detail.

He welcomes plant samples brought in to identify or diagnose problems. A half time break for tea, coffee and home made cakes, all included in the price of £5 per person.

It takes place on Friday 31st March, a prompt start at 7.30, at Bushley Cricket pavilion GL20 6JB.

More details or to book a place [helps with catering] 07812 179002 tim.per-

ry22@gmail.com

We also hope to hold our Bluebell Walk at the end of April, details next month.

TEWKESBURY THEN AND NOW with John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society

Since 1996 No. 8 High Street has been incorporated by the Halifax with no 9 – and recently they were sold together at auction, writes John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society.

It is a pity that, since until then, the building had a distinctive life of its own as is demonstrated in the (sadly undated) water colour.

From 1868-1903, it had been the property of a Quaker Bookseller and Printer, Henry Browett after which until 1967, it was owned by Charles Roberts who ran the newspaper, Tewkesbury Register, from there. It then had several owners including Hickman’s from 1988-1893 - at least it brought some colour back to it. There was also a pedestrian crossing outside for some years and a policeman stood on it every Saturday to control the flow of traffic- so many heavy vehicles passing through by the late 60s

Not only that, but upstairs for many years was a Ladies’ Hairdresser - what would modern ladies give for a 1937 perm? Post war it was operated by Mrs. Marie Freeman. A former apprentice has “so many happy memories of my time there” between 19681971. Downstairs was a Lynn Brown’s Ladies Fashion Shop - she came upstairs most days to have her hair 'dressed' but she moved away. There seemed to be several businesses working there – in 1892 there was a dentist and in c1968 there was a workshop on the ground floor at the very back of the property, accessed from the High Street. Who worked there?

I hope the new owner soon reveals plans for 8-9 High Street, and hope that both will be granted a future in keeping with their more distant histories.

(Above) an undated water colour (supplied to John Dixon by Dawn Gundy) and (right) an advertisement for Lorraine’s hair dressing salon at 8 High Street, Tewkesbury from 1936

The premises between 1988 and 1993, from James Boskett’s collection

No. 8 High Street picture in 2022, when up for auction with No. 9 (Photo: P. Finnigan)

Distance: Approximately 3 miles. Gentle ascents. Car parking: village streets. with respect to local residents. Refreshments: Blockley Café and shop, the Great Western Arms, The Crown Hotel (check respective websites for opening hours)

Sketch map not to scale: OS Explorer Map OL 45 (The Cotswolds) is recommended

RAMBLING AROUND with Jack B. Walker

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF FATHER BROWN

The village of Blockley is slightly off the Cotswold tourist trail, but has long been popular with ramblers, writes Jack B. Walker.

Blockley’s profile has been raised in recent years after it became the setting for ‘Kembleford’ in the popular TV Series Father Brown - but it remains a lovely spot for a quiet walk.

The village streets are narrow, so it is best to park at the edge of the village, with consideration to local residents.

Our starting point is the church of St Peter & Paul (Father Brown’s St Marys). Walk up the drive to the village High Street and turn left (1)

In the 18th and early 19th century, Blockley was a centre for the silk industry. Now an idyllic village, it is possible to see signs of its industrial past in the many former mills. On the right of the High Street you will pass the Russell Spring; a bequest of Lucy Russell in 1858, to provide a source of clean water for the villagers.

Carry on to the very end of the High Street, where it divides into two tracks. (2). Take the left track (a bridleway) to enter Dovedale.

You can now see ponds and Blockley Brook, which powered the mills to your left.

Continue on this track (part of the ‘Five Mile Drive’) into Bourton Woods. Eventually the track bears right, away from the stream and follows the edge of the wood. Keep on the same path, and look out for a footpath on the right. (3). Turn on to this path and follow the directions down the field to meet a track leading to farm buildings (4)

Brook Lane (8). Walk to the right of the ford, then left across the

brook and up to re-join the High Street (9) and return to the church.

Specialist in Ground Maintenance

Offering a wide range of turf improvement services:

• Aeration

• Scarification

• Disease Treatments

Turn left and walk along the track to reach Warren Farm (5) and the Diamond Way. Bear right walking down the slope, to enter another wood (6), and keep on the Diamond Way to eventually return to point (2) . Walk back along the High Street, and look for the public footpath sign pointing right (7). Walk down this path between cottages and low stone walls, and at the junction turn left to go down

CELEBRATE ST PATRICK’S DAY

FRIDAY 17th MARCH

GUINNESS  £3.21 PER PINT

UNTIL SATURDAY 18th MARCH GUINNESS SIX NATIONS RUGBY

WATCH LIVE AT THE ROYAL HOP POLE:

SAT 11 MAR   ITALY V WALES 14:15

SAT 11 MAR   ENGLAND V FRANCE 16:45

SUN 12 MAR   SCOTLAND V IRELAND 15:00

SAT 18 MAR   SCOTLAND V ITALY 12:30

SAT 18 MAR   FRANCE V WALES 14:45

SAT 18 MAR   IRELAND V ENGLAND 17:00

GUINNESS ONLY £3.21 PER PINT

• Top Dressing

• Overseeding

• Turfing

• Seasonal Treatments

• Mowing

• Pesticide Application

• Complete Lawn Care

• General Garden Care and Maintenance

Contact Jack 07772 011795

jackglover63@gmail.com

Make it a memorable day with a special meal at the Royal Hop Pole

28 BEAUTIFUL EN-SUITE BEDROOMS

Ideal if you have family and friends visiting the area, or just want to make it a night to remember!

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Visit our website  jdwetherspoon.co.uk/home/hotels/the-royal-hop-pole

Brook Lane and the ford, Blockley

The Russell Spring

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

Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct Pub Quiz

1: Which talent competition on British television brought together the boy band ‘One Direction’?

2: What is mixed with cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil and garlic to create

the Greek dish Tsatziki?

3: In 2005, which celebrity said “I am the closest thing to American Royalty?

4: Which classic American novel by Harper Lee features the character Jem Finch?

5: In which Italian city is the football club Lazio based?

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

WED 1st MARCH: The Rod Kelly Trio, (Jazz), Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon.

TUES 7th MARCH: Claude Bourbon (Music in Eric’s Bar), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

FRI 10th MARCH: Roachford, The Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

SAT 11th MARCH : Brimstone, No.8 Arts Centre, Pershore. www.number8.org

SAT 11th MARCH : The Fureys , The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 11th MARCH : Nick Wilson, Blossom Caldarone and George Boomsma, Gloucester Guildhall. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

THUR 16th MARCH : Folk Night from 8pm, The Anchor Inn, Eckington.

FRI 17th MARCH : Jive Talkin’ (Bee Gees tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 18th MARCH : Back to the 80s, Watson Hall. tewkesburytowncouncil. gov.uk/whatson

SAT 18th MARCH : Frankie’s Guys (A celebration of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

THUR 23rd MARCH : Heidi Talbot, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham. everymantheatre.org.uk

THUR 23rd MARCH : Duran Duran Tribute, Watson Hall. tewkesburytowncouncil. gov.uk/whatson

FRI 24th MARCH : Peat & Diesel, Gloucester Guildhall. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

FRI 24th MARCH : The Story of Guitar Heroes (tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 25th MARCH : Supersonic Queen (tribute show), Watson Hall. tewkesburytowncouncil. gov.uk/whatson

FRI 31st MARCH : The UK Pink Floyd Experience (tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

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

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

THURS 20th APRIL : Folk Night from 8pm, The Anchor Inn, Eckington.

TUES 2nd MAY : Sarah McQuaid (award-winning folk) The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

6: Florence Nightingale had a pet called Athena which she reputedly kept hidden in her skirt pocket. What type of animal was it?

BABY & CHILDRENS MARKET

A nearly-new sale of baby and childrens clothes will be held at the Wheatpieces Community Centre on Saturday 25th March (2-4pm). There will be lots of stalls bursting with quality clothes and equipment.Stalls are also available to anyone who wishes to take part and sell clothes or toys which their own children have outgrown. For further information call 07780 901183 or email jodi@bbycandchildrensmarket.co.uk

QUIZ NIGHT

WEDNESDAY 22nd MARCH

In aid of the Turkey Earthquake Appeal £10 per team of four, 7.30pm

MOTHERS DAY

SUNDAY 19th MARCH

Book Now - Call 01684 592225

PIE NIGHT

THURSDAY 30th MARCH

£13.95 per person, 8.00pm

FORTHCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY Ripple & Uckinghall Open Gardens, Mon 29th May Ripple Fete, Saturday 29th July The Festival Players perform Twelfth Night, Sunday 20th August SKITTLE ALLEY FOR HIRE

Station Rd, Ripple, Tewkesbury GL20 6EY Tel: 01684 592225

enquiries@railwayinnatripple.co.uk www.railwayinnatripple.co.uk

TEWKESBURY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Thursday 23rd March 2023

Stoke OrchardFrom Cider to Glider by Richard

Chatham

Methodist Church, Tewkesbury Cross at 7.45pm. Members £2.50, Visitors £4.00. All welcome. For more details visit tewkesburyhistory.org

ANSWERS:

1. The tor.X-fac

2. Yoghurt.

3. Paris Hilton.

4. To Kill A Mockingbird.

5. Rome.

6. An owl.

UTILITA ARENA BIRMINGHAM

9 MARCH LIZZO

10 MARCH TOM GRENNAN

26 MARCH CAZO PREMIER LEAGUE DARTS

22 APRIL PARAMORE www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk

NEC BIRMINGHAM

3-5 MARCH THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW

9-12 MARCH CRUFTS

16-19 MARCH THE CREATIVE CRAFTS SHOW www.thenec.co.uk

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL

4 MAR ELKIE BROOKS

8 MAR THE ROCK ORCHESTRA

25 MAR TREORCHY MALE CHOIR www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

EVERYMAN, CHELTENHAM

1 MAR JOHN TAMMS

13-14 MAR WODEHOUSE IN WONDERLAND

15 MAR PRUE LEITH www.everymantheatre.org.uk

PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM

3-4 MARCH 21st CENTURY ABBA

23-24 MARCH SWING FROM PARIS www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

THE BACON THEATRE, CHELTENHAM

24 MAR YOUNG ELTON: THE TRIBUTE SHOW www.bacontheatre.co.uk

THE GUILDHALL, GLOUCESTER

18 MARCH JAYDE ADAMS - MEN, I CAN SAVE YOU

21 MARCH LADY FRIENDS (PERIOD DRAMA) www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

THE HENRICIAN, EVESHAM

11 MARCH THE ULTIMATE COMMITMENTS & BLUES BROTHERS EXPERIENCE www.henrician.org

THE REGAL, EVESHAM

3-4 MARCH NIGEL KENNEDY www.theregal.ac

THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

2 MARCH PINOCCHIO

7 MARCH EXTANT: SUPER POWER PANTO

11 MARCH ROSIE JONES - TRIPLE THREAT www.courtyard.org.uk

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

9-11 MARCH A ROOM OF ONE’S OWN

11 MARCH HEREFORD COUNTY DRAMA FESTIVAL www.themarkettheatre.com

MALVERN THEATRES

7-11 MARCH RELATIVELY SPEAKING

21-25 MARCH FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS, THE MUSICAL

28 MARCH - 4 APRIL THE TIME MACHINE, A COMEDY www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

No.8 ARTS CENTRE, PERSHORE

3 FEB DIVORCED, BEHEADED, DIED: HENRY VIII www.number8.org

RSC STRATFORD-UPON-AVON UNTIL 4 MARCH THE TEMPEST

18 MARCH-24 JUNE JULIUS CAESAR www.rsc.org.uk

SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER

18 MARCH KATE MOSSE THEATRE TOUR www.worcestertheatres.co.uk

Mothers Day

Sunday 19th March 2023

food served 12.00 - 7.00pm

£25.95 adults three course

£14.95 under 10’s three course

£20.95 adults two course

£11.95 under 10’s two course

Mother’s Day is a special day, a day when we all get the chance to say thank you to the person that gave us life, nurtured and cared for us, and still watches over us. So why would you want to say thank you in any other way than in the best possible style. Here at Gupshill Manor we are committed to using only the finest local produce to create mouth-watering, outstanding dishes for you.

DEPOSITS NOW BEING TAKEN.

Gupshill Manor

Gloucester Road

Tewkesbury

Gloucestershire

GL20 5SG

CALL 01684 292278

EMAIL INFO@GUPSHILLMANOR.COM

~ to start ~

Trio of speciality breads – basil pesto dip – marinated olives (v) (ve) (g) (c)

Sweet potato, chilli & coconut soup – speciality bread (v) (ve) (g) (c)

Pan fried mushrooms – creamy garlic sauce –rustic bread (g) (c)

Atlantic prawns & scottish smoked salmon –marie rose – leaf – rustic bread (g) (c)

spiced cauliflower wings – tomato salsa –mixed leaf (g) (c

Chicken liver parfait – fruit chutney – rustic bread –mixed leaf (c) (g)

~ to follow ~

Gupshill roast – for anyone who’s hungry!! (supplement £3.50)

a monster plate of roast beef – pork – chicken – 2 yorkshire puddings – loads of roast spuds – pork stuffing – mixed vegetables – pan gravy (g)

Roast beef – roast potatoes – yorkshire pudding –pan gravy (g) (c)

Oven roasted chicken breast – roast potatoes –stuffing – yorkshire pudding – pan gravy (g) (c)

Loin of pork – roast potatoes – yorkshire pudding –stuffing – pan gravy (g) (c)

Pan-fried sweet chilli salmon fillet –dressed mixed salad (g)

Char-grilled local gammon – pub chips –free range fried egg – garden peas (g) (c)

Pan fried chicken & bacon – sliced new potatoes –free range boiled egg – dressed mixed salad – rustic bread (g) (c)

Pan fried sea bass fillet – new potatoes –chive hollandaise (g)

Oven baked nut roast – roast potatoes –yorkshire pudding – veggie gravy (v)

Beer battered haddock fillet – pub chips –garden peas – seared lemon (c)

Baked beetroot & quinoa pattie – new potatoes –mixed salad - salsa (v) (ve)

Linguini pasta – mediterranean vegetables –basil pesto cream – watercress (v) (c)

All main courses served with mixed vegetables ~

to finish ~

Ice-creams & sorbets – 2 x scoops adults 1 x scoop child. Vanilla – strawberry – chocolate – honeycomb blackcurrant or blood orange sorbet (g) (c)

Vanilla cheesecake – berry compote (g) (v) (ve)

Warm belgian waffle - honeycomb ice-cream –salted caramel sauce

Rich chocolate brownie – chantilly cream (g) (c)

Warm sponge of the day – creamy custard

Caramelised chocolate tart – vegan ice-cream (v) (ve)

British cheeses (£1.50 supplement) – stilton –farmhouse cheddar – creamy brie – fruit chutney –biscuits (g)

Covid has encouraged new gardeners with smaller plots and pots are an easy solution, writes Tim Hoskins.

There was even an area at Chelsea Flower Show 2022 devoted to balconies and containers. When I lived in Tewkesbury town centre, I had tiny paved courtyard gardens and pots were how I created greenspaces. They offer the advantages of being able to grow things together that have completely different needs, while ignoring rules about heights. You can easily adjust the display to highlight certain plants and introduce coloured pots to complement foliage-heavy schemes.

The downsides to container gardening like this are that pots aren’t

POTS OF POTS

cheap and some plants really don’t like being in pots for long, or need regular repotting. There is also usually a high watering requirement, even with good mulch, which is foremost in my mind nowadays.

Black horticultural pots aren’t easily recyclable, but thankfully more suppliers are using different coloured options now.

The principle material choices are plastic or terracotta. Plastic is cheap, light, waterproof and frostproof, but it’s the bad guy nowadays.

Terracotta pots are either glazed or unglazed and may or may not be frost proof. Glazed pots will perform in a similar way to plastic. Unglazed pots will breathe which means they will dry out faster than waterproof pots and often age with algae growing on the outside but they offer a further advantage in that they are better for plant roots. Unglazed pots allow a little air into the substrate and also offer some resistance to rootbinding. As roots come in to contact with air they produce fine roots

which are where most of the nutrient and water gathering happens. It is possible to buy (or make) plastic airpots, which try to emulate this with holes around them. These are handy for larger plants and plants that may be potted for a longer period. I tend to use these in my nursery as it is very easy to remove plants from them so they have long lifespans.

I’d like to end by busting a myth. You don’t need crocks in the bottom of pots.

TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVE - The arrival of warmer weather and earlier sunrises bring us louder bird song as nesting season begins. Nesting bird season typically occurs between March and the beginning of August. Toads and frogs will also be starting to migrate back to the ponds they were born in, including our ponds at the nature reserve! Sadly March also marks the end of the Green Lung project at the nature reserve, with funding due to run out on 31st March 2023. The Green Lung Project has enabled us to put on all of our learning and outreach activities, including the fantastic events and activities being advertised below. We are actively fundraising to continue some of its vital work. Donations can be made in cash at any of our events or by card on our webpage tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk/supportus/donate.

Upcoming events in March (need to be booked in advance): Every Thursday from 3rd March to 23rd March, Nature Guardians After-School Group. Saturday 4th March Reedbed management training workshop for volunteers. Saturday 11th March, Woodcarving workshop with Natasha Houseago. Saturday 18th March 11am-12.30pm, Tewkesbury urban flooding walk led by John Moore Museum, meet at Old Baptist Chapel. Saturday 25th March 11am-12.30pm, Nature Reserve flooding walk led by Tewkesbury Nature Reserve, meet at Tewkesbury Nature Reserve Car Park.

Despite our project ending, there are still lots of volunteering opportunities to get involved with at the reserve. Contact Giles at volunteers@tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk for more details and to sign up. Cate would like to give a huge shout out to Learning & Outreach Officer Robyn Kinnersley who has been absolutely brilliant at TNR. For more information, see www.tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk or social media facebook.com/tewkesburynaturereserve)

WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOCAL SCENE by Cate Cody - continued from page 20

Tim Hoskins

OSTEOPATHY ADVICE with Philippa Wingate, Two Rivers Osteopathy

CAR BROKEN DOWN?

CAR BROKEN DOWN?

LOW LEVEL

cellent way to speed up healing and get you back to doing what you love doing.

BURST?

BURST?

JOINT PAIN?

PAIN?

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), otherwise known as Photobiomodulation or cold laser, utilises certain wavelengths of light to promote and increase your body’s own healing mechanism, reducing pain and inflammation.

This type of laser (class 3B) is a cold laser, as opposed to the stronger hot lasers used for surgery or to destroy tumours, so you cannot feel cold laser as it does not heat up the tissues.

LLLT has been used for many years to treat arthritic joints, nerve related pain syndromes, sports injuries and low back and neck pain.

Clinical trials have been positive, and this type of therapy is becom-

TEWKESBURY

ing more readily available. Manual therapists can use laser alongside their techniques to promote healing of soft tissues and joints.

There are limited to no side effects after treatment. The most common after effect other than pain relief is a tiredness, which passes quickly.

Laser therapy doesn’t take very long to perform and can be used at the same time as manual techniques. It is an ex-

Laser therapy is also very popular with our animal patients, who find it very relaxing and often fall asleep after treatment!

MONDAY

CLEARANCES UNDERTAKEN

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.

ON POINT OVEN CLEANING

Jodi.onpoint@gmail.com

Shining up the

and cookers in Tewkesbury

A brand new oven cleaning company has arrived in the area. Jodi Wilkinson recently moved to the area and after a career as an automotive workshop manager, decided that now was a time for change, and decided to become a champion for cleaning ovens and cookers.

Many tasty dishes and delicious home bakes, have taken a toll on the appliances, used by the mums, cooks and chefs of the town, Jodi has made it his business to restore the most essential items of equipment, in the home.

Jodi has completed thorough training, sourced the best cleaning supplies and comes fully insured, his first ever oven clean on was on the 1st December.

Jodi, father of two boys, Harry and Ben, is an ardent Sheffield Wednesday fan, he says “I feel like I have hit the ground running, and over the weeks I’ve gained a rhythm. It’s hard manual work, but it is so very rewarding, I love getting out in the community, and I love this quote from a customer that I had recently, “wow I can see my cakes rise again!”

The, On Point team, includes partner Jaimie and daughter Lucie, with playful support from

their young pup Winnie.

Eager to take on the challenges of Tewkesbury and district, the On Point Oven Cleaning Company offers, a Buddy Up 20% discount for friends and neighbours as well as double loyalty stamps for re-bookings within nine months.

Call Jodi on 07375 486655, or email, jodi.onpoint@gmail.com.

m Jodi Wilkinson

Over

On and off the Rails.

With ASHCHURCH to TEWKESBURY, the story of the town’s rail link to the mainline, IAN BOSKETT has promised us a great night with a revised version of one of his favourites.

The early days, expansion, post-war decline, closure and what remains. Something for everyone:

rail enthusiasts, town historians, people who just like a good story, well told.

Tuesday, 7 March.

7PM

A fortnight later, Steve Goodchild will take us, once more, around the Inns, Taverns & Beerhouses of Tewkesbury town. New stories, happy and sad, rare photographs and one or two pubs newly dis-

covered. Tuesday, 21 March 7PM

All talks at Tewkesbury Baptist Church, Station Road, Tewkesbury GL20

5DR

Admission £3, including tea/coffee and genuine homemade cake. We now take cards, as well as cash. All profits to support Tewkesbury Museum

Tewkesbury Museum’s talks are building up a head of steam.

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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 MARCH

7 March - My life as an inventor (with Bob Stockwell)

14 March - A brief history of jazz (with John Beckingham)

21 March -Mercy ships (with Sheila Pugh)

28 March - Hear today, gone tomorrow (with David Reed)

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/

WE ALWAYS HAVE LOTS OF GREAT OFFERS IN STORE NEW GREAT SELECTION OF QUALITY £1 LINES

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Please think of us when selling your vehicle – we would like to be“The LocalAnswer” for selling your vehicle locally.

We buy and collect vehicles in every corner of the county, including the Cotswolds. If you prefer, you can also book an appointment to drop your car off at our Buying Centre at Coombe Hill.

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Probus Club visits Bugatti Museum

On a foggy February morning which eventually turned into a beautiful day, members of Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Cub enjoyed a treat when we visited the Bugatti Museum adjacent to the Prescott Hill Climb. After being warmly welcomed by the staff with coffee, we were entertained and informed about all things Bugatti by Charles Trevelyan, one of the Trustees of the Bugatti Trust.

Probably the most famous name in the family was Ettore Bugatti whose signature can be found cast into the camshaft covers of all the pre-war cars and whose logo combining a reversed letter E with the family B can still be seen on modern day Bugattis. Charles described the history of the Bugatti family in Italy where Ettore’s father was an incomparable carpenter and furniture maker and like all his sons who came after him, a perfectionist.

The family all seemed to have an unusual combination of artistic flair with an engineering skill overlaid with the family

perfectionism. When Ettore started his automobile company in Alsace in the early years of the 20th century these three principles were features of everything he produced.

fastest of Bugatti’s “railcars” had four massive 12.7 litre petrol engines and broke the world record for railways by reaching a speed of 122 mph in 1934 – in an era when nearly all trains were hauled by huge dirty steam powered locomotives. Our guide at the museum described Bugatti’s trains as the HS2 of their day.

Probus members rounded off an excellent visit with a visit to a local pub for lunch.

After Charles’s presentation we were taken on a guided tour of the Museum itself which contains many historic (and several unique) examples of Bugatti’s perfection in engineering. For instance, whereas most car manufacturers use gaskets where two mating surfaces meet (such as where a cylinder head fits on top of an engine block) Bugatti engineered the mating surfaces with such precision that a gasket was unnecessary.

We think of Bugatti as a car manufacturer but the company also experimented with aircraft and produced trains. The

If you are a retired professional or businessman looking for something new to stimulate your retirement in a social environment, you would be very welcome to join us as a guest at one of our Tuesday morning meetings. For more information, please visit our website at https://probusclub. net/tewkesbredon/ or contact our Secretary Steve Tucker on 07803 907243. Our events programme for the coming month is featured in this edition of Tewkesbury Direct.

By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club

Prior to forming his business in 2013, Rahul Gokani (Director) was a stayhome-dad, looking after his children and working as a delivery driver for Domino’s, in Tewkesbury. Rahul started off by helping out a friend with a breakdown in the old Cascades car park. From this, word spread and friends and family brought their vehicles to him to maintain.

In 2016 Rahul took on his Northway garage, and with an eye on, good customer care, and staff training he has seen his business grow, through trust, reliability and quality workmanship.

Rahul, says “We always use quality parts, offer a collection and delivery service and always try to fit in with our customer’s timescales.

“We are also proud to be part of our community, over the years, we have shown our support to; Tewkesbury Foodbank, Tewkesbury in Bloom, Tewkesbury RFC, Tewkesbury Athletic, Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend, Seren’s Wish & local primary school events, Cancer Research, Zellweger’s UK, BHF & other charities.

“We are looking forward to working with the next generation of vehicles too, and I would like to thank all our customers for their loyalty, support and custom over the last 10 years. If your car needs attention, please see our advert below, for a discount code for 10% off our labour rate*”.

Rahul Gokani

CHURCH STREET GIFTS

Now at 39 Church Street

Tewkesbury

GL20 5SN 01684 437400

(Near the John Moore Museum)

Church Street Gifts, Tewkesbury

Finally Open Again!

After a ‘golden’ start to 2023 (and then a series of events that caused delays), Church Street Gifts have finally moved from what was only ever supposed to be a wonderful, but temporary base opposite the Tourist Information Centre near the Cross, to larger, more permanent premises: Now housed in a beautiful Grade I Listed Building near the Abbey in Tewkesbury, Church Street Gifts has lots of new items in stock.

It has been exciting to welcome back loyal customers who have supported the shop over the last couple of years (and say a huge thank you) and offer a warm welcome to new faces looking for something a little different or that item or card that says you care.

Favourites, such as the Mead and Tewkesbury 1471 Gin are in stock with some new additions enhancing the range. More are planned during the year and finally with a venue in which to hold them, long awaited Gin and Mead testing events can now take place.

39 Church Street also has, what we hope will become a delightful garden. As soon as further work is carried out and the days are a little warmer, we hope to open it up and have more interesting garden items and features, to add to those already in stock. Some purchases you may not be able to carry home in a shopping bag but whether you are looking for a crafted item from someone local or a map covered deckchair you are welcome to come and browse.

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2023 – THE YEAR OF THE VANISHING BIN?EARLY RESULTS

by Alan Purkiss of Tewkesbury Civic Society

Its always a surprise to me just how much difference one or two individuals can make if positively motivated and positioned where they can be effective.

There are, no doubt, lots of local examples: the efforts of Diana HornerHill in encouraging neighbours in St. Mary’s Lane to get bins stored off the pavement and on to their own properties being one of them.

Very recently another such example has arisen. Something is being done about that unsightly accumulation of bins in Chance Street between Barton Street and East Street (see picture in February’s issue).

Philippa Devine lives there. She read the article I wrote on this matter in January and it struck a chord. She disliked the sight of bins everywhere as so many do. She decided to knock on doors and talk to all her neighbours and found that almost everyone felt the same.

On checking she found that two thirds of the bins were not owned by anyone, having just accumulated there as

tenants/owners of properties changed over the years! (This does highlight the need for the delivery of fresh bins to be more regulated).

officer at TBC) who got in touch with Philippa, quickly organised notices to be placed on all the offending bins warning of removal of those not marked. She then organised that UBICO remove the surplus ones after a time lapse.

She also gave Philippa details of bin storage systems trialled in Gloucester for consideration by the group that has formed around Philippa, as they look at what can be done with the one third of bins now remaining, bins that genuinely cannot be stored on properties nor be replaced by bags.

Whether your

With her neighbours she organised that all “owned” bins that could not be kept on properties be marked and requested TBC to remove those not marked.

Then another well motivated individual became involved (an

So, individuals like Diana and Philippa (helped by cooperative Authority officers) can make really significant changes that improve the environment they live in. We need more such around Tewkesbury to make 2023 the year of the vanishing bin!

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MANOR PLAYERS OF TEWKESBURY PRESENT THE WORLD PREMIERE OF THE NEW COMEDY MUSICAL ‘REGREASED’

Manor Players of Tewkesbury’s latest production is the world premiere of a play especially written for them by the renowned local playwright Lana Reive, who has written many plays and pantos for the society including, ‘The Hen Party’ and their last pantomime ‘Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood.’

Also pantos have been written for Pontin’s Holiday Camps.

The latest offering is a fun filled comedy, musical based on the great ‘Grease’ movie. However, the situation and characters have now been changed.

if they will they rekindle their past love and see if the home can be saved from closure?

It’s all set to the great music from ‘Grease’ although not quite as you remember it. A great evenings entertainment for all, although it has to

chase from TicketSource on the Tewkesbury Town Council / Watson Hall websites and from ticketsource.co.uk/manor-players-tewkesbury.

MITTON WI

It now doesn’t take place in America but in the Glendale Home For Retired Gentlefolk in England, where a riotous band of rebellious old folk create havoc.

We also meet Sandra and Daniel (remember them from the ‘Grease’ movie?) who meet up again after forty years.

Come along and see

be said that it’s not suitable for children.

It all takes place at the Watson Hall, Barton St. Tewkesbury on Thursday 20th, Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd of April at 7.30pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 2.00pm.

Tickets are available for the price of just £11 and they can be pur-

January’s meeting was well attended for an interesting talk on Colour Therapy by Carolyn Moss. At our March meeting, which will be on 13th March, we will be learning how to Morris Dance with the Englands Glory Morris Dancers which should be fun. Mitton W.I. meet at Mitton Manor School every first Monday of the month starting at 7.70pm, all welcome so please come along and join us. If you would like further information please ring 07846 453523 or MittonWi@gmail.com

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READERS WRITE to Tewkesbury Direct

Wishing Stefan Tai a great, renewed career, ahead

Dear Tewkesbury Direct,

The Hing Wah Takeaway of 12 Barton Street closed its doors for the final time on 1st January 2023, after 50 years of serving the town of Tewkesbury.

The reason for the decision was positive as its owner, Stefan Tai, feels it is time to pick up where he left off, his legal studies and career again, whilst he is still 'young' enough, yet leave his precious family in a secure position.

I had the honour of teaching Stefan at Tewkesbury School where he was an outstanding and very kind student. He went to uni-

versity to study law, and qualified as an lawyer at the New York State Bar US in the 90s.

Sadly, his father died unexpectedly. So, Stefan decided to give up his legal career, come back to the UK, to manage the family business with the support of his family, his mother, aunt, uncle and sisters. Stefan was, in fact, born in Northern Ireland, where his parents lived having left Hong Kong in the 70s due to the political uncertainty in the former British colony.

They soon came to Tewkesbury where Stefan and his sisters studied at the local schools, all of whom eventually went to uni-

versity. Both sisters now work in the NHS. Since taking over the business, it has thrived because of Stefan's personality and hard workand his family has provided high quality food.

I shall certainly miss the excellent quality of food I have always

enjoyed, and we can only wish Stefan and his sisters success in their new careers, and his family a peaceful retirement, knowing how much their presence in Barton Street has been so deeply appreciated for such a long time.

John Dixon

Electric vehicles: an alternative personal view

Dear Tewkesbury

Direct,

I found reading Anthony Stockman’s “A Personal View” in the Feb 2023 edition really rather sad. It’s worrying to me that this is his view of electric cars and that people reading the article might actually believe it all to be true. Mr Stockman

gives no accurate or realistic alternative solution to creating a carbon free vehicle; he is just promoting the oil industry to continue polluting our planet.

Many of his statements simply aren’t true. No electric car claims to have ‘exceptional mileage capability’. Different EVs vary in

range, much like internal combustion engine (ICE) cars do. Has any ICE car actually matched its real world mpg to what the manufacture claims? Not in my experience. Hard acceleration / braking and heavy air conditioning use affect ICE car range too. As for halving range by turning AC onwhat nonsense, again no different to an ICE vehicle using more fuel when it’s on.

After 17,000 miles in an EV over the past eight months, my battery range has varied between 260 miles on a very cold day and 320 miles in summer. The few times I have required to travel further than that in a day I stop at a charger for 10-20 mins for a top up, enough to get me home, where I’m lucky enough to plug it in and have a full charge by the morning. Admittedly, not everyone has this luxury, but for most daily journeys an EV works.

Yes, an EV does take more energy to make than an ICE, but this will reduce as we find better ways to build them. The CO2 savings overtake an ICE after 1.5-2 years. How a diesel burning car (even modern types) can be the “cleanest vehicles on the planet” I really don’t understand. Mr Stockman describes the

exhaust fumes like you can safely breathe them in all day.

Petrol and diesel vehicles - for their lifetimerequire thick oil to be extracted from the ground, before it is shipped across the globe in massive tankers burning thousands of gallons of oil, to then be transferred into refineries. These require cityscale amounts of electricity to refine the oil to a grade that is again tankered in lorries to all parts of that country, for us to then burn it in our cars - creating more pollution and an energy source that can NEVER be used again. A process that is constantly repeated to “fuel” the need.

It seems Mr Stockman fails to understand that a growing percentage of our electricity is coming from renewable sources that don’t pollute our world and the more we invest in this, the more we can rely on it to be a major percentage.

Buying an electric car promotes this investment - buying diesel or petrol promotes more unsustainable and harmful fuels that we have to keep burning and polluting our planet with.

So let’s do the world a favour and just stop burning stuff.

Ed Green

DOWNLOADABLE PILGRIMAGE WALK

With Spring just around the corner,what better time is there to get put and about in our local countryside?

A three stage pilgrimage walk - between Tewkesbury Abbey, Stoke Orchard, Tredington, Deerhurst and back to Tewkesbury along the Severn, was first devised two years ago. It has proved popular with walkers visiting the historic churches en route. The route map and leaflet are now downloadable on to your mobile device, via the Visit Tewkesbury website. For details check out www.visittewkesbury.info/whats-on

Photo of Stefan’s family team by friends Lloyd and Anthea Jones

THE SOUND OF MUSIC AND MORE

The beginner and intermediate Tewkesbury Town Band Training Bands will be giving a special concert at St Nicholas Church in Ashchurch this month.

They will be playing some familiar numbers from The Sound of Music, as well as many other familiar tunes.

The concert begins at 6pm on Saturday 25th March. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

For more information visit the band’s website, ttb.org.uk or www.facebook.com/tewkesburytownband

Secret Airbase History Walk

RAF Defford was a secret WWII airbase where Radar was tested and developed to help win the war.

An organised walk on Thursday 16th March from the National Trust’s centre at Croome Park (11.00am) gives an insight into a fascinating history. More details nationaltrust.org.uk/croome

Servicing and Repairs