Tewkesbury Direct Magazine May 2023

Built in 1308 and closed finally in 2017, the future was quite uncertain for such an aged and fragile building.

Fortunately for the town, the property was purchased by the Haynes family, who have been carefully and sensitively restoring it for the past few years.

To give readers a flavour of what's ahead, we are pleased to present a sneak peek of this historic building.

Customers will find an architectural and decorative treat through every door and around every corner. The interior includes historic restored features such as the leather-covered ceiling and a rediscovered secret passageway once used by the Monks to reach the Abbey.”The opening date will be announced soon.

Luke Haynes comments, “Everyone is eager to see The Bear open now.

“We have taken a lot

of pride in restoring Tewkesbury's second oldest building, and we will hold the same pride when it comes to our staff and training.

“We are looking for people who would like to join us on this exciting chapter and carry on the legacy of The Black Bear.”

If anyone is interested in applying, please email Jobs@freehouse.co .uk. Luke and his sister

Evelyn would love to hear from you.

Haynes and sister Evelyn outside the

Pre-booked

Visit

Alison’s Bookshop & Music Room

Trespasses

by Louise Kennedy Paperback £8.99

Fans Cushla Lavery is a primary teacher, living with her widowed mother in Northern Ireland. "A compulsively readable love story", was one of phrases when this book was first published last year, this is quite true; however that statement totally ignores the depth of this novel.

Set during the peak of the sectarian Troubles, Cushla, a Catholic, teaches at a small church school where the local priest, Father Slattery imposes his personal preferences, whilst the head Mr. Bradley seems amenable to being influenced by the clergy. She befriends a fellow teacher, Gerry Devlin, who becomes a strong ally to her over the months of the story.

The love story is the developing relationship Cushla has, after a chance meeting, with Michael Agnew, a married Belfast barrister. He becomes a more frequent drinker in her brother Eammon's pub, which he had taken over after their father died, and where Cushla helps out occasionally after school. There are a handful of regular drinkers who materialise throughout the book, but the pub is a venue where Michael can see Cushla as they become ever closer; though this would be frowned upon by the locals, and of course her school.

Another chance happening leads into the other strand of the book. Cushla's increasing involvement with the McGeown family, initiated after she had inadvertently soaked Davy, one of her class's pupils, as he walked to school. After his father Seamus is attacked and only just survives, Cushla aids the family and supports Davy, a bright boy, who is ostracised at school. She befriends Betty, Davy's mother, but external influences damage this relationship, trust being a precious commodity in and around Belfast. Davy's brother, Tommy an A-Level student, and elder sister Mandy make up the family but the neighbours are forever threatening the household as Seamus eventually returns home to convalesce.

Cushla's home life is not easy, her mother Gina being an alcoholic, hidden bottles

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ered randomly secreted throughout their house.

Eammon sees this as Cushla's responsibility while he manages the family business; having a wife and daughters to care for between his long hours behind the counter.

As Spring turns to Summer, Cushla's relationship with Michael intensifies. Her knowledge of Irish is used as an excuse for meetings with some of his friends who are trying to learn the language. Their assignations are sometimes scarce, sometimes spontaneous, after a brief phone call. Michael is busy handling difficult and sensitive court cases, with a wife and family at home. Throughout, their growing love, despite external adversities, drives the love story along, but in reiteration this novel offers so much more than a tale of passion. The book reads smoothly, each strand of the story advancing as events start to merge. The Troubles are sensitively handled, presented with raw factual clarity as the background against which the lives of the McGeown family deteriorate. Cushla juggling her domestic life at home and the pub, against her affair with Michael, and her wish to help Davy and his family.

This, Louise Kennedy’s first novel, is worthy of attention not only for the story it tells, the reality of the events it chronicles, but in particular for the pleasure it gave reading it. The Judges for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023 obviously agree as it has just been longlisted for this prestigious award.

Selected by:

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

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TEWKESBURY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Thursday 18th May 2023

AGM followed by Hailes Abbey - Holy Blood and Holy Monks? by David Aldred Methodist Church, Tewkesbury Cross at 7.45pm. Members £2.50, Visitors £4.00. All welcome. For more details visit tewkesburyhistory.org

War Graves Week is coming to Tewkesbury

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) will be bringing War Graves Week to Tewkesbury, writes John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society.

There will be a free tour at Tewkesbury Borough Cemetery on Saturday 20th May 2023, starting at 11.00am.

It will give people in Tewkesbury the chance to discover the remarkable stories of the men and women of the Commonwealth forces that died in the First and Second World Wars who are buried in their community.

More than twenty casualties from two World Wars and beyond are buried there.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission is a global leader in commemoration.

Founded by Royal Charter in 1917, we work on behalf of the Governments of Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, South Africa and the United

Kingdom to commemorate the 1.7 million men and women from the Commonwealth who lost their lives in the two World Wars.

The GWGC believes that remembering individuals who have died in conflicts is of universal, perpetual relevance, and that reflecting on their deaths is of continuing and paramount importance for us all.

The cemeteries, memorials, graves, landscapes, and records in our care will be found at 23,000 locations and in more than 150 countries and territories. They are both the practical means

CORONATION PICNIC AT THE ABBEY

Everyone is invited to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III on Sunday 7th May with a special Congregational Eucharist at 10.30am, followed by ‘bring your own picnic’ in the abbey grounds. Music will be provided by Tewkesbury Town Band.

of our commemoration of the fallen and vehicles for discovery, inspiration, and engagement.

The CWGC believes that each one of those

we commemorate were people like us, with their own ambitions, hopes, and dreams. It is our duty and privilege to care for their graves and

memorials and through our charitable Foundation, keep their stories alive.

The Tewkesbury tours will be led by local resi-

dent, John Dixon, who is a volunteer for the CWGC. You can book via the website www.cwgc.org/ wargravesweek

This

year Tewkesbury in Bloom is introducing ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ and ‘Pride in Your Town’

For the first time we will be entering ‘pockets’ that local community groups create and maintain; this happens all over the country with many entering the RHS In Bloom Awards in their area but for us it will be our first year.

We are hoping to rejuvenate Tewkesbury with ‘Pride In Your Town’ with awards in four different categories to cover everyone in town, from pubs to shops. We are trying to encourage as many people as possible to take part and will be rewarding the entrants considered to have made the most effort.

Issues that could be considered are: asking smokers not to leave cigarette ends outside on the street, keeping your surrounding outside area clean and free from litter and weeds, keeping an eye on any nearby flower displays etc., by removing any debris deposited in them and watering if needed.

We understand that times are difficult but hope that this initiative will be helpful to us all; Tewkesbury should look cared for and beautiful, so that residents and visitors will appreciate our efforts and wish to return.

If you would like to support Tewkesbury in Bloom by volunteering

to help with gardening or with admin, by making a donation or sponsoring a planter please

contact Karen at Karen5Brennan5@gmail. com or at Bookworm on 01684 438385.

WINCHCOMBE WALKING FESTIVAL IS BACK

Ramblers will be making a bee-line for the pretty Cotswold town of Winchcombe this month, as the popular annual Walking Festival returns, writes

Jack B. Walker

As the meeting place of several trails, and with its plentiful supply of restaurants, inns and tea rooms, Winchcombe has long been a popular base for walkers.

The ancient Saxon Borough hosted its first walking festival in 2009, and has grown in popularity year on year. This year the event will take place from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st May.

The organisers offer a variety of twenty one walks and two events, led by knowledgable local guides who will give walkers an insight into the history, flora and farming of the area. They routes take in

popular parts of the Cotswolds AONB, as well as hidden corners and places off the wellbeaten tracks. There are walks suitable for all ability levels.

For more information, check out the website www.winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com, where you will also find a downloadable guide to the festival.

SIR TIM APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF RAILWAY TRUST

Sir Tim Laurence, husband of Anne, Princess Royal, has been appointed President of the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Trust.

Philip Young, Chairman of the Trust, said: “GWRT recently launched an appeal to support the repair and restoration of the iconic Stanway Viaduct, which was viewed by Sir Tim during a visit to the GWSR ahead of his appointment. “I am delighted that Sir Tim has accepted our invitation to become our President, just as we seek to raise £1.5m in our appeal.

The GWRT is separate from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Plc who own and operate the railway, and who retain Pete Waterman OBE as their President.

The GWRT works in partnership to keep the railway fully operational as an important visitor attraction in the Cotswolds.

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TEWKESBURY & DISTRICT CRIBBAGE LEAGUE TEAM KO CUP

On Monday night (3rd), the Team KO Cup Final was held at the Berkeley Arms between the Anchor 1774 and the Gardeners Arms.

The latter were firm favourites to win as in they had swept aside their opposition in the two previous rounds, whereas the Anchor had just scraped through their two rounds by a point each time.

On the night though the Anchor were victorious despite winning only two tables.

TEWKESBURY ART SOCIETY

Animal & Wildlife Artist, Eric C Watson, will be giving a pencil drawing demonstration at The George Watson Hall, Barton Street, Tewkesbury on Tuesday, 16 May 2023 from 10.15am12.30pm. Visitors welcome £5 entry.

Tewkesbury Choral Society invite you to Italy!

After their last concert of “Music for the Christmas Season” in chilly December, Tewkesbury Choral Society would like to transport you to the sunshine and la dolce vita of Italy, via their concert of Italian music in Tewkesbury Abbey, on Saturday 20th May, beginning at 7.30pm.

They will be performing works by three composers, better known for their operas than for their sacred works - Pergolesi, Verdi and Puccini.

Pergolesi is probably the least known and lived in the first half of the eighteenth century. His “Magnificat” is the song that Mary sang when she visited her cousin Elizabeth after she had been told by the Archangel Gabriel that she was to give birth to the Son of God, Jesus Christ. It is a fast moving work lasting a little over ten minutes.

The six movements begin with an energetic and joyous “Magnificat Anima Mea Dominunum” from the chorus. More pensive movements follow including duet for tenor and bass soloists and concludes with the doxology which is largely a repeat of the first movement.

Giuseppe Verdi needs little introduction being the composer of many favourite operas - “Rigoletto”, “Aida” and “La Traviata” to name but three. His “Pater Noster” is a poetic adaptation of The Lord’s Prayer and written in Italian. The

choir is used to singing sacred works in Latin, but singing Italian has proved an unexpected challenge! It is a quiet, unaccompanied and introspective work with subtle and beautiful harmonies.

The concert will end with one of his earliest works - “Messa Di Gloria”. It was a “student” work forming part of his graduation exercise when he was only 18!

The Mass has the usual structure - Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus and Agnus Dei, but it is the Gloria which is the largest and most exciting movement, filled with wonderful sections for the whole choir and tenor soloist.

The “Adagio” which The Chameleon Arts Orchestra will play will be familiar to many audience members and has been used in many film scores.

Tewkesbury Choral Society hopes that this concert of these three extraordinarily beautiful pieces of Italian musicplus the Chameleon Arts Orchestra’s performance of the Adagio, will appeal to an audience who enjoy music with “a

good melody”.

Tickets are £18 (but children, students and carers of wheelchair users are free) and are available from choir members, from Alison’s Bookshop, The High Street, Tewkesbury, on line - (www.ticketsource/t-c-s) or on the door before the concert begins.

New members to all sections of the choir are always welcome. You can find details on our website - www.tewkesburychoral.org.uk.

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Jazz at Probus Club

Sometimes at Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club, instead of the usual illustrated talk on a Tuesday morning we have a musical intervention and we have had several entertaining presentations from musical experts over an eclectic range of musical genres.

Recently we welcomed jazz pianist John Beckingham to give his talk entitled “A brief history of Jazz.”

John set up his electronic piano keyboard and not only did he tell us of the roots of jazz originating in the songs of the slaves in the United States, but played many different styles of jazz which have developed over the years,

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playing several recordings of the different genres of jazz from the New Orleans Dixieland styles, through the “Trad-Jazz” craze of the 1960’s up to what we now call modern jazz.

Sometimes our speaker comes as a representative of a charity and one which I certainly had never come across is Mercy Ships which are effectively hospital ships which sail primarily to the East African coast and provide surgery and medical services to the indigenous population who often have few or no hospital facilities in their own region. Sheila Pugh described how the ships have the full complement of staff that you would find in any hospital in this country includ-

ing specialist surgeons, nurses and medical support staff on board who stay on site for many months treating some terrible afflictions that otherwise the people of the region would have no hope of treatment.

Later we had a very interesting talk by consultant audiologist David Reed who visited us to tell us everything we needed to know about hearing, tinnitus and balance. He described in detail the physiology of our ears inside and out and how important our hearing is in ensuring good communication with our fellow human beings, how important good hearing aids are for the hard of hearing and how those new to using hearing aids should per-

severe in getting used to them even when they feel somewhat uncomfortable at first.

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 www.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

TEWKESBURY & DISTRICT u3a MEETINGS

Tewkesbury & District u3a is a members organisation for people no longer in full-time work. We have a small annual membership fee, plus some other charges to cover Hall hire etc. Please see our website at www.tewkesburyu3a.org for more details about our activities, news, what’s on, meetings, groups and membership.

We have monthly meetings at the Baptist Church Hall, Tewkesbury, with a speaker (sometimes also a singer). Details of some forthcoming talks are:

Monday 22nd May - Stagecoach Travel. 10.00am for 10.30am talk. John Butterworth will talk to us about the way the stagecoach spurred the economic growth of this area in the early 19th century. He’ll tell us about the famous people who used the coaches and the characterful drivers who manned them.

Monday 12th JuneTudor Food and Drink. 10.00am for 10.30am talk. Kirstie Bingham

Twyning Players Present SHERLOCK’S

EXCELLENT ADVENTURE

by James Barry

11th, 12th & 13th May

At Twyning Village Hall 7.30pm

Tickets £9 (£7 concessions) from Village Inn or shop.

from John Moore Museum will share stories of food and drink from Tudor times and how tastes have changed. We also have over 30 Groups that meet reg-

ularly covering various activities, some including visits to places of interest. We welcome two new Groups that have recently started, Skittles and Craft Club.

Bredons Norton

CORONATION CELEBRATION

6th May @ 4.40pm

Marquee and village hall. Pig Roast, Bar & Skittles. Tickets £5 (5 and unders FREE) Proceeds to Church .

The Railway Inn, Station Road, Ripple CORONATION

STREET PARTY

7th May 1pm - late Bring your own picnic, pub open all day, live stream of Coronation concert, live music from 7.30pm. T. 01684 592225 to book a space.

Cotteswold Dairy Ltd 85 Years Anniversary

1ST MAY 2023

Cotteswold Dairy has been a successful family business since 1st May 1938 when Harry Workman, aged 20, purchased a 30 gallon (135 ltr) per day milk round. In those days milk was mainly delivered by dispensing milk from a churn into the customers jug twice a day after milking. The price of a pint of milk was 3 old pence (about 1p in today’s money). Harry built up the business on his core values of Quality, Service and Cleanliness which remain at the forefront of the company today to ensure the best quality milk and cream is delivered with excellent service.

Harry soon built up a good reputation and the business grew, he built his first dairy on Cotteswold Road in Tewkesbury and was one of the first to install a pasteurisation plant in the area, so when this became a legal requirement he was well prepared to supply other dairies who did not have this facility.

His son Roger joined him in the company in 1962 and business continued to expand over the years.

A larger premises was needed and in 1969 the dairy moved site to its present location in Northway Lane. Today it is a modern processing dairy with average daily milk sales of 65,000 gallons (300,000 litres), managing every step of the milk journey from the collection from local farms, to processing, distribution and delivery.

Various types of milk and cream products are available in a variety of sizes and packaging options, along with a range of daily goods, and the company is currently investing further in the site to provide a larger cold store facility and improved office and welfare facilities.

Cotteswold Dairy’s purpose is being at the heart of a responsible and sustainable dairy community and is proud to source excellent quality milk from their local farmers, working with

their team of loyal staff to give top service to their valued customers.

Harry sadly passed away in 2016, aged 98, Roger is now semi-retired and his son George is the 3rd generation of the Workman family to be at the helm of the business, with other family members also working for the company.

Along with servicing different types of customers, including wholesale, semi retail and independent milk rounds, they still deliver milk by electric floats in returnable and reusable glass bottles, a service much appreciated by its doorstep customers who love the convenience of having delicious, fresh, local milk arriving at their homes in time for breakfast!

For more information about Cotteswold Dairy, or if you would like to become a customer please visit www. cotteswold-dairy.co.uk or phone 01242 672426.

m Pictured, the family members presently working in the business, Megan, Tom, Lucy, Louise (all Woodward), Roger, George, Maddy (all Workman) & Archie (McEwan)

m Harry (aged 95) pictured outside Tewkesbury Abbey in 2013.

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A spacious extended detached bungalow with attractive garden; 3 bedrooms; shower room; bathroom; living room; sitting room; conservatory; kitchen/breakfast room; garage; Flo Gas central heating; upvc double glazed windows and doors. EPC D; Tax Band D.

With far reaching views from 2 large balconies, you can sit and watch the birdlife and the sunsets from dawn til dusk. 3 double bedrooms; main bedroom with ensuite; bathroom; open plan living room; modern kitchen; garage; parking.

EPC C; Tax Band D.

This is a lovely detached home with the advantage of a garage to the side; open plan kitchen/dining/conservatory with log burner; separate lounge; guest wc; 3 bedrooms; gas central heating; double glazing; attractive gardens. EPC D; Tax Band D.

A modern, detached bungalow with private gardens and ample driveway parking. Modern kitchen/dining room with patio doors to garden; dual aspect lounge with patio doors; 2 bedrooms; gas central heating; upvc double glazing. Tax Band C; EPC C.

Quite charming. Town centre cottage with the advantage of driveway parking; private walled courtyard, pretty cottage front garden; 3 bedrooms; lounge; kitchen/dining room; utility; wc; gas central heating. EPC tba; Tax Band C.

Refurbishment project; detached chalet bungalow within walking distance of the town centre; situated centrally within its good sized garden plot; garage; ample off road parking; Combination gas fired boiler. EPC E; Tax Band D.

Modern immaculately presented 3 bedroom semi detached home. Contemporary styled kitchen/dining room; lounge; utility; guest wc; Main bedroom with ensuite; contemporary bathroom; garage; driveway parking for several vehicles. EPC B; Tax Band C.

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.

NO CHAIN; Modern end terrace 3 bedroom home; main bedroom with ensuite; ground floor guest wc; kitchen/breakfast room; dining room; conservatory; lounge; garage; parking; gas central heating; upvc double glazed window; low maintenance garden. Tax Band C; EPC C.

Beautifully presented semi detached chalet bungalow; 2 bedrooms; ground floor bathroom; kitchen/breakfast room; lounge/dining room; rear porch; detached single garage; lovely rear garden backing onto school; long drive with ample parking. EPC D; Tax Band C.

Beautifully light, elegant 2nd floor % Share of Freehold apartment within this historic Manor House. Overlooking its own 4 acre grounds; modern kitchen/dining room; dual aspect lounge; contemporary styled bathroom; ensuite; 2 double bedrooms; garage; parking. Double glazing; central heating. EPC D; 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.

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M&Co opened for the first time in April 2003, and sadly the store finally closed its doors on 18 April 2023, Yes 20 years ago! How time flies.

What a lovely long time most have the staff have worked there and they are of course sad to see the store closing, the girls have seen many a character through the doors which have brightened their days and made their job really enjoyable – I’m sure you know who you are!

Kerry and the girls have greatly appreciated all the generosity of their customers who have unfailingly supported every madcap fundraising idea the staff have had, from spending a penny, which had you all bringing in copper and emptying your purses, to facing your fears and

by former Manager, Kerry Brookes

modelling in the many fashion shows that were held. There have been so many fun times, dressing up to walk in the carnival for Tewkesbury Big Weekend, or magically turning up for work, dressed for the Medieval Festival.

The selling of Christmas trees for the Christmas Lights was always an event, at times the

stores yard was filled with over 100 trees and a cherry picker! You have been dropping off wool for K2Togs, buying knitted chickens, donating massive amounts for recent appeals, and of course buying the Tewkesbury Alley maps.

Fundraising and joining in with the community has been a big part of M&Co and over £40,000

has been raised by the staff and the generous customers during the stores time.

The staff wish to say a massive thanks for all of your cards and best wishes - they have made so many friends of customers and other retailers in the town, they will miss you all.

Kerry, Lin, Tania, Katie, Lyn, Jill, Charlotte and Ella.

by James Barry

Thirlebrook Cottages £425,000

Falcon Road £423,000

Honeysuckle Cottage £365,000

A fantastic opportunity to purchase a beautifully presented FOUR BEDROOM semi detached home, with lots of space and presented in fabulous condition, with garage and carport and large gardens, a must view.

Ashchurch Road £350,000

A lovely FOUR BEDROOM detached property with ample off road parking, garage and private rear garden, lots of potential to make this a modern family home, close to all of Tewkesbury’s amenities.

Woodrush Road £287,000

If space is what you need, then look no further, this sizeable FOUR BEDROOM, FOUR BATHROOM home, in the ever popular Walton Cardiff development could be just what you are looking for.

Ashchurch Road £325,000

What an opportunity to purchase this gorgeous characterful THREE BEDROOM semi detached property with off road parking and BEAUTIFUL private rear garden, close to Tewkesbury town.

Langley Grove £273,000

A beautiful red bricked cottage, this cottage really needs to be viewed to appreciate exactly what it has to offer, all the character of a gorgeous cottage and wrap around gardens to 3 sides and off road parking.

Hardwick Bank Road £295,000

What a fantastic opportunity to purchase this lovely immaculately kept, extended THREE BEDROOM home on the ever popular Northway development, with off road parking and large sunny garden.

Howard Road £270,000

TAG Estate Agents are thrilled to be bringing to the market this beautifully kept, end terrace THREE BEDROOM home, with gardens and garage, in a quiet location on the popular Walton Cardiff development.

Gainsborough Drive £265,000

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to purchase this TWO BEDROOM bungalow in Tuffley, with newly fitted kitchen, bi fold doors to a large rear garden.

Welcome to Langley Grove in Twyning, a beautiful TWO BEDROOM EN SUITE home, in a popular riverside village, with off road parking and garden, with views towards Bredon Hill.

Styles Close £220,000

Your chance to purchase a very well presented and ready to move into TWO BEDROOM property on the ever popular Northway development, with private rear garden and off road parking.

An exciting opportunity to purchase an end terraced THREE BEDROOM family home, situated on a LARGE corner plot with HUGE POTENTIAL and the added benefit of a garage.

Cromers Close £220,000

A fabulous example of a TWO DOUBLE BEDROOM first home or investment property, all ready to move into, or to rent out, in the popular residential area of Northway.

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

‘A Stitch in time’ - Proactive Health Care for Vulnerable Tewkesbury Residents

We are all very aware that the NHS is under severe pressure but addressing issues before they escalate offers huge benefits for patients and the NHS alike.

In late 2021 the Tewkesbury Health and Wellbeing team were formed to tackle this very issue and proactively look for problems to solve whilst the shoulders of the rest of the NHS sagged under the weight of existing demand.

Over 11,000 patients aged over 65 were pro-actively contacted to ask if they or their family had any concerns regarding: mobility, frailty, falls, memory, isolation, finances, medications, weight or carers.

The response was huge and over 1/3 replied with unmet and unvoiced need (many had been being stoic and ‘did not want to trouble the NHS as they knew it was struggling post Covid’).

The team were aware that there were limited existing resources and have now set up numerous initiatives including 12 regular weekly strength and balance classes across Tewkesbury with over 250 attendees weekly.

The impact and change we have seen is incredible and not only physically – it has helped to unlock the world for many isolated people and the chance to socialise with peers after classes and forge and rekindle friendships is heart-warming.

The next areas of unmet need were weight loss and diabetes – we all need help with motivation and often know what we need to do but

we just need help. The ‘Happy and Healthy with Helen’ 8-week mini boot camps have produced average weight loss of over a stone per attendee and dramatic reductions in diabetes levels.

The NHS offers excellent cancer care but simply has not got the

resources for complete holistic support (including mental wellbeing, physical health, finances) and the team have also set up regular pro-active reviews after diagnosis and treatment

The Health and Wellbeing team are the team that look for trouble!

Thank you to Anne, Chris and Bev @ The Devereux Centre

At present this does not fall under ‘standard NHS services’ and we are incredibly grateful for support to date from Tewkesbury Borough Council, local industry and NHS grants.

m Christine Allen, Lead Nurse-Anne Williams and Beverley Paxton

The Beast at The Old Baptist Chapel

The chapel, hidden down an alley off Church Street, and used

in secret by Baptists in the 1600s, makes an ideal setting for this modern verse-comedy about rival playwrights in seventeenth century France.

The production makes playful use of a unique space, featuring a pulpit, a mezzanine level, and a resounding barrel-vaulted ceiling that helps to carry the play’s quick-fire witty dialogue, and intricate choral speech.

Elomire (an anagram of Molière) a court playwright, is falling out of favour with his patron the Princess. She wants Valere, a street-entertainer, to join Elomire’s company. Opinionated, verbose, arrogant, and offensive, Valere is the last person on earth Elomire would ever work with.

What ensues is a bitter but boisterous comedy as Valere reveals himself to be ever more appalling, while Elomire hatches a plan to unmask his rival as the talentless charlatan he is.

Tewkesbury Arts and Drama Society (TADS) has been regularly entertaining and involving the local community with high quality theatre for over fifty years.

They have recently won a string of awards at the Worcestershire Theatre Festival 2023. On top of that they regularly deliver sell-out productions to The Roses Theatre.

La Bête is being performed by Tewkesbury Arts and Drama Society (TADS) 25-26th May at 7.30pm, and 27th May at 2pm and 7:30pm.

Tickets are available from www.eventbrite.co. uk - scan the QR code below to purchase.

It would be nice to report an end in prospect. War weariness is evident in the Ukrainian populous but so is their resolve to fight on against their Russian aggressors. Helping those trapped in this destructive conflict remains paramount and so critical.

Our thanks to Sensory Direct who have supplied numerous boxes of SEN

equipment for children in improvised schooling (often underground) across the country.

This month we are appealing for ‘shoe boxes’ and each will be packed with donated convenience items and those that can add a little cheer to those enduring the front line.

Examples include; socks, lip balm, instant soup packets, plasters,

UKRAINE - WHAT NEXT

small packet of wet wipes, small notebook pen, playing cards, toothbrush toothpaste, razor shaving gel, mints, paracetamol, antiseptic creams. Please help if you can.

We are still accepting a variety of donations but with Spring showing it’s face in the east,

Beautiful home grown bedding plants, hanging baskets & planted containers

• Herbs, soft fruit & vegetable plants

• Cottage garden plants, shrubs and roses

• Trees, conifers and hedging plants

• Plant, lawn & garden care products

• Specialist composts & decorative gravels

• Barrels, plastic pots, terracotta & glazed pots

• Quality timber products

• Specialist bird care products

Gretton Road, Gotherington GL52 9QY

Open - Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm Sunday: 10am-4pm 01242 676722 www.gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk

Open 9am – 5pm every bank holiday in May

warm clothing is less critical than hitherto.

Ukrainian-bound

HGVs are leaving our warehouse in Hereford and Bourton on average every 7 days.

Please help: contact Tim Wright, email Frog-

wellvct@gmail.com or tewkesburytri@gmail. com.

By Tim Wright, CEO Frogwell VCT

WHAT’S ON at the John Moore Museum

m LIVING HISTORY TOURS

Description: AGNES HUGHES WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU INTO HER TUDOR HOME… 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 piss-pot but there is a story behind every object. Agnes looks forward to meeting you…

Date: Saturday 4th May & Saturday 20th May

Times: 11.30pm & 2.30pm

Location: The Merchant’s House Church Street

Tickets: Adults £3.50 Concessions £3.00

Children £1.50 Tickets include entry to the John Moore Museum Booking: call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org

m ANCIENT WOODLANDS IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Description: Are you fascinated about the natural world that surrounds us?

How beneficial are woodlands? Discover all about the Ancient Woodlands we are lucky to have here in Gloucestershire, as well as how to identify an ancient wood, its biodiversity and where locally to visit one.

Speaker: John

Heathcott from the Woodland Trust.

Date: Saturday 13th May

Times: 11am

Location: Old Baptist Chapel

Tickets: Adults £6 Concessions £4.50 Children £2.00. Tickets include entry to the John Moore Museum and Merchant’s House Booking: call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org

MITTON WI

Our April meeting was a delight for all those that like to remember Tewkesbury’s history and especially the railway history.

Ian Boskett brought it all back with his wonderful photographs and anecdotes about the railway lines from Ashchurch to Tewkesbury, and to Evesham. Pictures of long-gone stations, including the two which served Tewkesbury. Did you know that the train from Ashchurch to Tewkesbury was only ever one carriage and was axed in 1961 due to lack of use, but always pulled by the tank engine number 43754 which came to be known as the ‘Tewkesbury Engine’. Many thanks to Ian for a lovely evening of memories.

Our next meeting will be 15th May when we will learn all about bee keeping. Hopefully a few jars of honey will be available too! June’s meeting will be a talk about the alleyways of Tewkesbury by Steve Goodchild.

Mitton W.I. meet at Mitton Manor School 7.30pm every first Monday of the month (unless bank holiday). All welcome so come along and join us. If you would like more information please ring 01684 292385, Mitton-WI@gmail.com or look for Mitton WI on Facebook.

m Day shipment from Bourton

Mount Pleasant is an intriguing area which was raised land, safe from Swilgate flooding, writes John Dixon of Tewkesbury Historical Society.

It was valued in the late 19th century as an area for development, perhaps of grand houses as Oldfield was (now Wynyards Close).

It was originally carved out of the

Oldbury Open field when it was enclosed after 1808 and was allocated to Quaker Philanthropist, Nathaniel Hartland.

Perhaps his granting of some land (F) in 1812

Country Clothing

to non-Conformist Barton Road School started the subdivision of this area so that it lost its harmonious appearance - it also removed the Medieval Pound where stray animals were impounded - to free them for a fee!

At the junction with East Street the Abbey’s Tithe Barn was situated. This disappeared after the 1808 Enclosure map when Back of Mt. Pleasant was carved out of the field - all the elegant Burgess’s houses had the convenience of a Service Road to give entrance to the rear garden.

It was bought by Thomas Collins for a time, but he sold it on to builders for individual developments. The first was the elegant Regency Houses (A) followed by Barton House (B) and

then in 1885 with 10-14 villa style which first had addresses of 1-5. Mt. Pleasant. The terraced houses 6-9 (C) were deprived of their gardens to build the ‘mews’ cottages of Back of Mt. Pleasant (D)

Opposite them were some older cottages (H), which were part of the Chance St-Union Place development on Samuel Turner’s land.

To sort out the mod-

ern muddle, which is Mount Pleasant, I would love it if owners could reclaim their deeds from solicitors - they only now have historical rather than legal importance. If only I could study them, as I did with kind permission of the owners of no 14, I might solve the riddle of the pleasant Mount.

(Above) A-E: Mt. Pleasant: 1-14 Barton Road with F (the former school) and (right) diagram based on 2006 map: A Regency Houses, B Barton House, C Terrace 6-9, D Mews (Back of...) E Villas 10-14 and F Elizabeth Wyatt House (Barton Road School).

1808-1811 Enclosed Lands

D ‘Mews’ Cottages, Back of Mt Pleasant to East Street

On Monday night (20th), after a gap of over three years due to Covid, the Crib Doubles Knock Out Cup was held again at the Gardeners Arms, Alderton.

This saw the 2019-20 Runners Up (Hannah Fenech & Jo Monk – Woodpeckers) crash out in the first round to the eventual Winners (Village Inn), who were basically untouchable, dropping only one game all night.

The Bredon FC pair (Hedley Bonnes & Tim Johnstone) had reached the Final by dropping their first game in each round and nearly broke this pattern of play in the Final with a valiant 21 hand from Hedley, but it fell short by 5 holes. Their luck truly evaporated in the second game when they pulled their pegs when two streets behind.

In the third game

FIRST ROUND

1 Anchor 1774 2 Cross Keys Inn

2 Berkeley Arms 0 C Anchor

2 Bredon FC 1 Gardeners Arms

2 Village Inn 0 Woodpeckers

SEMI FINAL

1 Berkeley Arms 2 Village Inn

2 Bredon FC 1 Cross Keys

FINAL

0 Bredon FC 3 Village Inn

after the first round, their lead subsequently disappeared and they trailed behind, just about keeping in touch with the Village Inn. (Ann Smith & Ann Bookham).

A special shout out to Wendy (Landlady – Gardeners Arms) who put on a splendid supper, ensuring that those who went home empty handed were at least well fed.

With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and an experienced sales and installation team, we can supply and create exactly what you are looking for.

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

m Doubles Finalists

Distance: approx. 3.5 miles; mainly flat. *DO

NOT attempt this walk when flood warnings are in place! Car Parking: Eckington Wharf (free)

Refreshments: The Bell Inn and The Anchor Inn, both in Eckington. Riverside picnic area at Eckington wharf. Map: not to scale. OS sheet 190 (Malvern Hills and Bredon) is recommended

RAMBLING AROUND with Jack B. Walker

FROM WHARF TO WHARF

May is the usually the time when I take my first walks of the season along the River Avon, as the meadows have largely dried out the risk of flooding is lower, writes Jack B. Walker*.

The well signposted circular route starts from Eckington Wharf’s popular riverside car park and picnic area, on the B4080 Pershore Road just north of the village.

There was a ferry here until the mid fifteenth century, when a narrow bridge was constructed. This gradually fell into disrepair, and was replaced by the current Grade II listed red sandstone bridge in 1728. Leave the car park by the pedestrian gate, cross the road with care and bear slightly right, to go through the gate on the opposite side before the bridge (1)

The route now follows the old tow path (with the river on your right) for about two miles to the lock at Strensham.

On the way you will pass under a railway bridge carrying the busy Bristol to Birmingham main line.

On the opposite bank you will see boats moored at Defford Marina, and as the river curves around to the south, Strensham

Church can be seen high up on the opposite bank.

As you reach the lock, look out for the old keeper’s lodge on an island mid-stream. This spot is very popular with boaters, and many craft are moored here.

playing field on the left: shortly after this the path leaves the roadside

and descends, behind a hedge, back down to Eckington Wharf (5)

As you pass the lock, turn left up the lane (2) and walk along to the T junction.

Turn left and carry on up Mill Lane, passing some farm buildings on the left, until you reach Eckington village.

Keep straight along the street, ignoring left turns, until you see the footbridge over the railway (3). Cross and carry on straight ahead to reach the B4080 and the centre of the village (4)

Turn left and walk along the pavement, keeping straight along the main road. Pass the

•

CORONATION

Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct with six of the best questions in our Pub Quiz

1: Which island now part of Australia was formerly called Van Dieman’s Land?

2: Which footballer holds the record number of caps for the Welsh men’s team?

TUES 2nd MAY : Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

TUES 2nd MAY : Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 6th MAY : Rick Wakeman, Gordon Giltrap, Oliver Wakeman and Carrie Martin: The ‘Other’ Coronation Concert, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

WED 10th MAY : The Rod Kelly Trio, Fox & Hounds,Bredon.

SAT 13th MAY : Kim Lowings (Folk in The Foyer), No.8 Arts Centre, Pershore.

SAT 13th MAY: Aswad, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

SAT 13TH MAY: Skerryvore (folk), Gloucester Guildhall. gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

SAT 13TH MAY: Iago Banet (Spanish Guitar virtuoso) The Market Theatre, Ledbury. themarkettheatre.com

SAT 13th MAY : The CarpentersVoice Of The Heart (tribute show), The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

QUIZ NIGHT

PIE NIGHT

THURSDAY

3: Which comedian, singer and actress’s career was launched with an appearance on the TV talent show ‘New Faces’ in 1974?

4: Which singer’s hit singles include ‘24 Hours from Tulsa,’ ‘Somethings Gotten Hold of My Heart’ and ‘Town without Pity?’

5: With a length of 634 miles,

SAT 13th MAY: A Head Full of Coldplay, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk

SAT 14th MAY: Albert Lee, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

TUES 16th MAY: Hothouse Flowers, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

WED 17th MAY : Show of Hands and Michael Wood, The Roses Theatre. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 20th MAY: Steve Ashley, The Irving Studio, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham. everymantheatre.org.uk

is the longest river in France?

6: Queen Alexandra, who died at Sandringham in 1925, was the widow of which British monarch?

FRI 26th MAY: Toyah Wilcox and Robert Fripp, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester. worcestertheatres.co.uk

SAT 27th MAY: Tundé Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

SUN 28th MAY: Curtis Stigers, Subscription Rooms, Stroud. thesubrooms.co.uk

TUES 6th JUNE : Outfit Groove, The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 24th JUNE: The McCartney Songbook, The Roses Theatre, www.rosestheatre.org

SAT 24th JUNE: The McCartney Songbook, The Roses Theatre, www.rosestheatre.org

THURSDAY 27th-

SUNDAY 30th JULY: Appfest Music Festival: Original artists and World Class Tribute Bands.

Acts confirmed include Republica, Gabrielle, The Feeling, Starsailor, The Undertones, The Real Thing, Space, Chesney Hawkes, Toploader and Skippinish. Hillworth Farm, Longdon, Tewkesbury. www.app-fest.co.uk

FRIDAY 28thSUNDAY 30th JULY: Tewkesbury Live Music Festival, Various Venues, Tewkesbury

ANSWERS:

1. smaniaTa

2.Gareth Bale

3. Victoria Wood

4. Gene Pitney

5. The Loire

6. Kind Edward VII

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

UTILITA ARENA BIRMINGHAM

5 MAY DURAN DURAN

14 MAY JOE BONAMASSA

31 MAY ROGER WATERS

8 JUNE ELTON JOHN www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk

NEC BIRMINGHAM

13-14 MAY MAKERS CENTRAL

19 MAY-4 JUNE CIRCUS EXTREME

2-4 JUNE UK GAMES EXPO www.thenec.co.uk

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL

16 MAY BEN FOGLE WILD

19 MAY KARL JENKINS SYMPHONIC ADIEMUS

20 MAY BRAHMS REQUIEM (ORIEL SINGERS) www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

EVERYMAN, CHELTENHAM

15-20 MAY AGATHA CHRISTIE’S ‘THE MOUSETRAP’

23-27 MAY SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

13-17 JUNE TITANIC - THE MUSICAL www.everymantheatre.org.uk

PLAYHOUSE, CHELTENHAM

4 MAY HOWLERS COMEDY CLUB

12-13 MAY CHELTENHAM CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

19-20 MAY THE LIBRARY DIMENSION

2 JUNE PAUL MAYHEW-ARCHER www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

THE BACON THEATRE, CHELTENHAM

29 MAY ALICE IN WONDERLAND (BALLET) www.bacontheatre.co.uk

THE GUILDHALL, GLOUCESTER

17 MAY THE ANCHORESS

26 MAY GAZ COOMBES

28 MAY MARTY PELLOW - PELLOW TALK www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk

THE HENRICIAN, EVESHAM

18-20 MAY BROADWAY & BEYOND www.henrician.org

THE COURTYARD, HEREFORD

3 MAY GLENN MILLER & BIG BAND SPECTACULAR

4 MAY THE MANFREDS

14-15 MAY RHOD GILBERT

20 MAY SUZI RUFFELL www.courtyard.org.uk

MARKET THEATRE, LEDBURY

14 MAY EMMA (THE PANTALOONS)

27 MAY SHERLOCK’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE www.themarkettheatre.com

MALVERN THEATRES

3-6 MAY A QUARTER TO THREE

9-13 MAY UNEXPECTED TWIST

19 MAY SENSATIONAL SIXTIES EXPERIENCE www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

No.8 ARTS CENTRE, PERSHORE

5-10 JUNE GUYS & DOLLS (P.O.D.S) www.number8.org

RSC STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

UNTIL 17 JUNE HAMNET

UNTIL 24 JUNE JULIUS CAESAR www.rsc.org.uk

SWAN THEATRE, WORCESTER

18 MAY SENSE AND SENSIBILITY www.worcestertheatres.co.uk

Private function room, own bar, entrance foyer and outside courtyard.

Weddings, Christenings, Parties, Annual Dinners.

MOREL SUPPORT

However you pronounce the word (there are three different ways and they’re all correct), fungi are strange organisms and vital in any ecosystem, writes Tim Hoskins.

They are neither in the plant kingdom, nor the animal kingdom so a whole range of new subkingdoms has been identified to accommodate them.

Fungi can be huge –one organism can cover over 2,500 acres (1562 football pitches / 0.005% of an area the size of Wales / 8000 Olympic swimming pools). Where they establish mycorrhizal relationships on plants’ roots, they not only assist with water and nutrient transfer to the host, they also assist

with nutrient sharing between plants.

It has also been found that mycelia pass on chemical signals to allow plants in an ecosystem to communicate.

Yes, really. It’s even been discovered that, using these networks, trees will favour their own species and even their own offspring when assisting each other in times of stress. I know this sounds like pseudo-science, but I promise you it isn’t.

From a gardener’s point of view, fungi/fun-

guses (both correct) can be pests, but I prefer to view them as evidence of a functioning ecosystem or a signifier of a stressed one.

We often only see mushrooms, which are the reproductive organs, but they really are just a tiny part of the organism.

gardens? Yes and they won’t do any harm, but I wouldn’t bother.

Of all the myriad species of fungi, what are the chances of finding exactly the right one for your plants in a packet?

Most of the important part is under our feet or within a dead or dying host. So, if further encouragement not to dig your garden too vigorously were needed, this is it.

An additional way we can help is by using some perennial species in areas where perhaps annuals might be the norm. for example, a core of permanent plants within kitchen garden beds provides a habitat for fungi and other soil residents and will improve soil health for no effort.

Can we add mycorrhizal additives to our

Tim Hoskins

OSTEOPATHY ADVICE with Philippa Wingate, Two Rivers Osteopathy

HOW TO KEEP YOUR BONES HEALTHY AND STRONG – TOP TIPS

We all know bones are important. They enable up to stand up and move, as well as providing protection for your organs. But did you know you bones are constantly changing?

Our bone density is maintained by a fine balance between cells that breakdown and digest bone (picture Pakman) and cells that build new bone. When you are

of bone density which can result in osteoporosis (brittle bones which fracture easily). So how can we keep our bones nice and strong and help to prevent osteoporosis?

Begin by binning the bad habits! Smoking andsumption increase your -

– it’s all aboutsearch has shown that maintaining a healthy,

balanced diet which includes lots of vegetables, oily fish and dairy can help maintain healthy bones. Calcium is one

You will also need to have enough Vitamin D as this enables you to absorb the calcium you eat. However, it can be

ber, we are able to make our own vitamin D from sunlight. Unfortunately, in winter, many of us become deficient, so make sure you get your recommended amount of vitamin D. Other vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin K also help keep your bones healthy.

CAR BROKEN DOWN?

DOWN?

of the main minerals in bone so ensuring that you get enough calcium in your diet is essential.

difficult to get enough vitamin D through diet alone. Happily, from April through to Septem-

Exercise – you snooze, you lose! Our bones respond to the demands we place on them. For instance, astronauts lose bone density much faster in space due to not being able to weight bare in the absence of gravity. Back here on earth, the more exercise you do, the stronger your bones become. And the good news is that

it doesn’t have to be a huge amount of intensive exercise either. It is recommended that people aged between 19 - 64 years should do a total of two and a half hours of aerobic exercise a week. Even if you aren’t able to manage that much exercise, simply going for a walk or a swim every day helps. Resistance training exercises have also been shown to increase bone density so get those resistance bands out!

Please visit our website for more information regarding osteopathy and our practice. www.tworiversosteo.com

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

EASTER EMERGENCY FOR SEVERN UNIT MVS

Following heavy rain in the catchment areas of the Avon and Severn in March and early April the rivers in the Tewkesbury area were once again in a flood and this caused some navigation problems.

Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service was called out just before Easter by the Avon Navigation Trust to see if they could help in an emergency situation as all their own boats were too far away up river to attend.

Head of Unit Nic Price said “King John’s Bridge had become blocked by tons of logs, trees and other flood debris but after great difficulty and several hours work unit members Chris Adcock and Guy Brady with Cox’n Severn Unit member and Reach Master Will Fish managed to clear this all away. They also laid a series of buoys to mark the position of underwater obstructions of large branches from a huge tree that had been washed down in one of the previous floods and got caught half up the bank and half submerged in a particularly dangerous place just before the bridge”.

Severn Unit was thanked by the navigation authority for attending the incidents at very short notice and keeping

the river clear for boats to pass through the bridge safely when navigation re-opened for the Easter holiday.

m Severn Unit members Guy Brady and Chris Adcock clearing debris from the bridge. Picture taken by Cox’n Will Fish.

m Laying marker buoys to warn of underwater obstructions

CAR SALES OVER 50 QUALITY USED V.A.G CARS ON SITE. ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 13 YEARS.

Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17.30 Saturday 08:30 - 16:30

SUNDAYS CLOSED

Vhub Service Ltd is the specialist Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda & Seat Service MOT and Performance Centre based here in Tewkesbury. Led by Dave Peters we specialise in full dealer level servicing and diagnostics and we are officially recognized by Volkswagen UK as being a fully registered independent Service and Maintenance Centre.

As a recognised Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda Repair Centre we are fully able to update your online Digital Service Record. We access your vehicle’s online Digital Service Record via our manufacturer registered Dealer Portals, allowing us to log all servicing works carried out on your vehicle.

From our advanced and fully equipped workshops we offer these in house services.

•Hunter 4 wheel alignment

•Adas – Erwin-Odis VAG diagnostics

•Air con R134A and R123yf

•In house MOT and loan vehicles

• EV Hybrid and Full Electric vehicle servicing

We have our own main dealer trained VAG technicians so you can rest assured your vehicle is in safe hands. Our well-equipped workshop has six ramps to accommodate our dedicated team of highly skilled technicians! And our clean and bright facility offers more than just an enjoyable working environment – it’s also full of the latest professional tooling and equipment, for the very best value servicing and repairs on your VAG vehicle.

At Severn Point Automotive, we offer car servicing and repairs for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric vehicles. An electric car service, also known as EV servicing, is a thorough inspection of your vehicle to ensure it’s performing at its best. We can provide EV servicing and repairs for all makes and models including:

Celebrating Tewkesbury Volunteers 4/5 June 2023

Are you involved with a local group?

If so this could be an opportunity to showcase your group’s activities and to encourage others to join you.

As part of National Volunteer Week, which is the first week in June, we will be holding a 2 day event at Tewkesbury Town Hall for volunteer groups and charitable organisations to promote their activities and attract new volunteers.

The event will coincide with National Volunteer Week and will take place on Sunday 4th / Monday 5th June 2023.

We are offering each group a free 6ft table or space for both days. Your space can be used

for promoting what your organisation does/ has achieved, appeal for members/ volunteers, appeal for sponsors/funding. Or you may like to run a fundraising activity.

The event will be open to the public from 10am – 4pm and the kitchen will be open to offer free tea and cake.

Alternatively, if you have some spare time come along for a chat and meet some of the people that keep Tewkesbury’s volunteer community vibrate and relevant, their

contribution to things that we may take for granted can be quite a surprise!

If you are looking to use old skills or to find new ones talk to us, we may be able to help. Now is a great time to get involved.

If you have any questions please contact me via karen5brennan5@ gmail.com, ring 07806762157 or pop into Bookworm, 150 High St., Tewkesbury for more information.

Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend

WHAT’S

Around the Town we have the ever-popular dog show at the Vineyards. If you have a dog, then you are eligible to enter, we have a class for all types and sizes. If you don’t have a dog, then go and watch the entertainment!

At the Watson Hall is a Photo exhibition of Tewkesbury then and now, along with stalls giving information and displays for traditional crafts and skills.

The Town Hall will have a huge variety of stalls both inside and outside, at the rear in the gardens.

The highlight of the afternoon is the street

parade starting by Boots and going via the High Street and finishing in the Vineyards. The theme this year is “Nursery Rhymes.”

At Riverside you will find our stage with a full programme of dance and music lined up and a historic vehicle mobile bar and catering to help you relax and soak up the atmosphere. There will also be stalls, children’s rides including a bouncy castle. If you have ever fancied trying a stand-up paddleboard [SUP] then taster sessions are available with instruction, and all the equipment provided. For something different you

can even try driving a tugboat.

Sunday concentrates on the river with a spectacular display of decorated boats of all shapes and sizes making their way through town on the Mill Avon. Last year we even had an amphibious car join in!

The riverside stalls and children’s rides will again be available throughout the day. The mobile bar and catering will also be available.

If you are looking for something more relaxing for a Sunday, then try a picnic in the park at Victoria Gardens. Bring your own or take advan-

We are ready for what we hope will be the best BIG weekend ever. Starting with the Grand opening ceremony at 10.45 on Saturday at the Riverside stage with the new town Mayor officiating. Followed by the Tewkesbury rock choir, getting music on the riverside stage off to a lively start. Continued on P41…

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tage of the refreshments on offer.

Sunday afternoon sees the Katakanu boat races. This event has been very popular in the past and has raised lots of money for our nominated charities.

The only thing missing to make this the “best ever” is YOU. Whether it is supporting us by coming to watch or perhaps you would like to get involved with the Street or Boat parades or perhaps get a group of five people together to form a Team for the boat races.

You will have an experienced person with you to help steer the boat and keep you safe. All safety equipment and instruction will be given, and you can raise money for your and our nominated charities.

Further information is available from www. tewkesburybigweekend. co.uk

Or follow us on our Facebook page or contact the main Organiser carolcrilly@btinternet. com or for riverside matters Paul Cronin hope29@talktalk.net

Programmes will be available from Sweets and Treats and Carousel on the high street which will give full details of all the events.

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m Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend

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The hidden secrets of Tewkesbury Abbey

Last month we published a feature on the secrets locked deep within the fabric of Tewkesbury Abbey after a privileged visit arranged by Anne Priestley Abbey Foundation administrator.

This month we explore the heights of Abbey Tower. Our first two photographs are of the depository of stone carvings and artefacts, of which, recovered over the years, within the environs of the building, that include metal embellishments from the Abbey gates.

Dating and placing some of these items remains a mystery, they do however add to the enigma of the building.

The clock and carillon striking drum mechanism are now out of use, but remain within the tower. It was manufactured by Thomas Steight of Pershore in 1739 at a cost of £35. For the period that the mechanism was in use, it represented the most modern technology of the time.

It was mentioned in ‘John Halifax Gentle-

m Relics and artefacts found within the Abbey and grounds stored within the depositary

man’ by Dinah Maria Mulock Craik and one of the tunes was likely to have been ‘Life Let Us Cherish’.

A photograph of the Belfry illustrates the wonderful complexity within the Bell tower, the

stresses and strains of movement of many tons of Bronze Bells at height have been taken in to account by the civil engineering genius of the medieval builders.

The final photograph illustrates a medieval

windlass on its original shaft that had been used in hoisting stone to build the Abbey, now remaining where it was left within the tower.

This is one of a small number of medieval windlasses which survive in situ in the respective towers where they were used in construction according to Donald Hill (Ref: Donald Hill, A history of Engineering in Classical and Medieval Times, P1984, Routledge, Pg111). Two others are at Peterborough Cathedral and Salisbury Cathedral.

The Abbey remains the most interesting historical building within the town, if you want to see the wonders for yourself, Abbey tours are available on Sundays at 12.30pm.

m The early clock and carillon striking drum mechanism

m The heavy and complex wooden structure, supporting the Bronze Bells within the Belfry

m The medieval windlass and shaft used in construction of the tower remain there to this day.

TEWKESBURY BOWLING CLUB

Youngest Bowls Club member, Charlie, opens up the season

Tewkesbury Bowls Club opened their Green on Saturday 15th April. The first bowl of the season was bowled by 9 year old Charlie Davis-Bennett who is the youngest member of the Club. If any young people are interested in bowls they would be very welcome at the club. We have open days on the 12th and 13th May, for details see our advert on this page.

NEWTOWN WI

At our March meeting we welcomed Louise Parker who shared her journey through lockdown into becoming a textile artist.

She explained how being creative helped her wellbeing and she generously shared with us how we could create things ourselves. We all enjoyed looking at some of her work that she had brought along, and all felt thoroughly inspired.

At our next meeting on the 10th May, Kirstie Bingham will be coming along to talk to us about ‘Unusual Cures and Blood Galore’. There will also be afternoon cream tea to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III.

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.

,

The

www.billinghamandpartners.co.uk Regulated

m Charlie Davis-Bennett with the opening bowl of the season

The LOWER LODE Inn

PLANNING AN EVENT THIS YEAR?

We have availability in our great riverside function room, this season. Ideal for parties, weddings, family events, socials, club events, rallies, functions, reunions, baby showers and groups.

Tewkesbury Flower Club

Our next meeting is on Tuesday 9th May at Bushley Village Hall GL20 6HT, doors open at 1.30 and the meeting begins at 2.00.

This month our demonstrator is Lorena Dyer and her title is “A moment in time”.

Visitors are very welcome to join us and entrance is £6 - you will find us very friendly! No experience is necessary - just join us for an entertaining afternoon watching an expert arrange beautiful flowers. All arrangements are raffled at the end of the demonstration.

Forthampton GL19 4RE 01684 293224

m Peter Badham

COVID VACCINATIONS ARE BACK!!

These are now available in certain selected pharmacies only, writes Peter Badham. We are very fortunate to be able to provide this service at our pharmacy in Church Road, Bishops Cleeve, as well as our branches at St Pauls, Cheltenham and London Road, Gloucester.

Appointments are limited because the new vaccine supplies are restricted, however I am sure all eligible patients will be able to access a vaccination.

Booking is via 119 as before.

If you want any advice, please call our branch at Bishops Cleeve on 01242 672653.

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 MAY

2 May – No meeting (Bank Holiday)

9 May – Fun facts about the brain (with Dr Katy Bellamy)

16 May – The science of sword swallowing (with Brian Witcombe)

23 May – A ride along the Amalfi Coast (with Pam Holland)

30 May – No meeting (Bank Holiday)

Meetings are held at 10.15 a.m. in Bredon Village Hall. Every interested person will receive a very warm welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Steve Tucker on 07803 907243 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/

LOOKING TO SELL YOUR CAR?

Hi, I’m Shaun Taylor from Approved Car Buying Centre. It’s my job to make selling your used car as simple as possible. I’ve been buying vehicles now for 40 years.

THE FIRST STEP is to give me a call so I can get some details of your car and look at the current market value. We can then make an appointment to come and see you - date and time at your convenience.

Once we have inspected your car and relevant paperwork, we will offer you our best possible price. If you are happy with our price, we can complete the transaction there and then.

We pay you direct into your bank account. We settle any outstanding finance agreements and notify DVLA of the sale of your vehicle online. The whole process takes around 25 minutes.

We have no admin fees or charges - you receive 100% of your valuation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND A HELPFUL SERVICE

please call Shaun on 07836 777268 or visit our website at www.approvedcarbuyingcentre.co.uk

“Our customers are always relieved and impressed by just how easy it is to sell their car.” 07836 777 268

Crescendo Big Band’s Coronation Concert

Not many market towns can boast owning their own big band, writes Shelby Powell.

Tewkesbury’s own Crescendo Big Band have enjoyed a musical residency at the Gupshill Manor for over thirty years - a record for a local band.

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To celebrate the Coronation, an afternoon concert has been planned for Sunday 7th May. The guest singer is Catherine Sykes. She is a renowned jazz singer having toured the world with bands such as the Glenn Miller UK band and the Nick Ross Orchestra.

For those unfamiliar with big bands, the line up consists of four trumpet players, four trombones, a five strong saxophone section plus rhythm section consisting of keyboard, drums, guitar and bass.

The programme will include toe tapping music from the swing and jazz era including Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, King Cole and many more. It starts at 3pm, with doors open at 2.30pm. Admission is £10 on the door.

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DATES for your diary

GIFFORDS CIRCUS AT SUDELEY CASTLE:

Thursday 11th-Monday 15th May 2023. Giffords 2023 Show “Les Enfants du Paradis’ takes inspiration from mid-19th Century French romanticism. In the grounds of Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe. Tickets and more details available from the website www.giffordscircus.com

RIPPLE & UCKINGHALL OPEN GARDENS:

Monday 29th May 2023. Ripple and Uckinghall are holding an open gardens day on Monday 29th May, in aid of Acorns Childrens Hospice and St Mary’s Church Ripple renovation fund. There will also be a barbecue, bric-a-brac stall, tombola, cream teas and plant sales. 11am-5.30pm. £5 admission for adults,accompanied under 15s free.

EASTNOR CASTLE STEAM & VINTAGE DAY:

Sunday 28th-Monday 29th May 2023. Steam engines and vintage cars line-up in the Castle Courtyard at Eastnor, near Ledbury. Buy tickets online at eastnorcastle.com

OVERBURY STREET MARKET:

Saturday 8th July, 10am-12noon. Local food, honey, homemade cakes, paraphernalia, books, DVDs, crafts, plants, artworks, bottle stall, tombola, tea, coffee, ice creams and live music. Whitcombe Garden open. Free entry and car parking - cash purchases preferred. No dogs allowed.

SANDFORD PARKS LIDO: Cheltenham’s famous heated outdoor 50m pool is now open. For opening times and admission prices see the website sandfordparkslido.org.uk

More dates for your diary on pages 51 and 52

To advertise call 01242 621346 or visit www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk

Roofing Services

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SECURITY SYSTEMS

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PRIOR’S PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD PROJECT (PPNP) -

Monday: Prospect Training, Digi Drop Ins, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve.

Tuesday: Woodworking Sheds, Pop Up Library, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve.

Wednesday: Pantry membership, Warm Spaces, CCP Drop ins, Digi Drop ins, Coffee and Create, CCP and PPNP joint creative group, history groups, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve, Thai Cooking Classes (bookings only).

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SEWING,TAILORING & REPAIRS

Thursday: Prospect Training, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve, Girl Guides.

Friday: Woodworking sheds, Prospect Training, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve. Please call 01684 290069 or email info@ppnp.co.uk f or further details. Venue: PPNP, Jubilee II, York Road, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU

TEWKESBURY REPAIR CAFÉNext session Saturday 20th May. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm. Please double check before travelling. If you would like to find out more

contact admin_team @tewkesburyrepaircafe. co.uk

TOADS ON THE ROADS UPDATEThe migration conditions for the toads were a bit odd this year; too cold, too dry, then snow! The best night was 12th March and we saved 77 amphibians from being squashed. Sign up in January 2024 if you’d like to help us next year.

CATE’S DAYTIME DISCOS - These have been going so well, that she and George are continuing them! The next one: 23rd May,

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1-4pm at the Watson Hall. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy

the music and a cup of tea! This is a free event and all are welcome. JO

Free Filling Station

A water bottle refill point has now been installed on the side of the Public Conveniences in Spring Gardens, Tewkesbury.

The Town Council has thanked the High Street Heritage Action Zone for funding to enable the project to take place.

DATES for your diary - continued on back page

Daytime Disco at the Watson Hall

DATES for your diary

PRESCOTT SPEED

HILLCLIMB:

Italia, Sat 13th May; Classics, Sun 14th May; Historique, Sat 27th May; British and Mini Fest, Sun 28th May. At the famous Bugatti Owners’ Club uphill track near Gotherington. Details prescotthillclimb.co.uk

RHS SPRING SHOW: Thurs 11th-Sunday 14th May. Malvern. www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

COTSWOLD

FESTIVAL OF STEAM: Friday 12th-Sunday 14th May. At the award-winning GWSR heritage railway. Details www.gwsr.com

TEWKESBURY’S

BIG WEEKEND: Sat 20th and Sun 21st May. At the riverside and in the town centre. tewkesburybigweekend. co.uk

CHEESE ROLLING: Monday 29th May. Coopers Hill, Brockworth. The famous downhill races chasing the cheese begin at midday. Event open 11am-5pm.

TEWKESBURY

BATTLEFIELD WALK: Thursday 1st June, 7pm-9pm. Meet Abbey Lawn Car Park. Details www.tewkesbury.org.uk