Scheduled to re-open this month, Ledbury Road Service Station will offer fuel from Total Energies - a company which is committed to alternative fuel research.
There will also be a shop stocking fresh local produce and Olly and Susannah’s own range of take-away cakes, sandwiches, wraps, pasties and sausage rolls.
Freshly ground coffee, newspapers, flowers, cards and general groceries will also be on sale, along with all the usual items you’d expect to find at a petrol station.
Additions for the near future include public toilets, click and collect groceries, bike racks and air and water for motorists.
The project has taken several years to come to fruition, as Susannah explains: “We run a company called ‘In The Park’ which I set up in
2014, and now operates four park cafés in Cheltenham (Pittville Park and Montpellier Gardens) along with tennis courts, a pitch and putt golf course and the boating lake.
“In 2017 we set up a commercial kitchen and warehouse at Mitre Farm in Corse Lawn to centralise all our food production and deliveries for the sites.
“As we were living in Tewkesbury at the time, we drove past the old garage on the Ledbury road on our way to work every day for four years,
and thought it was such a shame when it closed down, as a much needed community resource had been lost.
“Olly has always had a passion for cars, and I’ve always wanted to run a village shop, and we thought the site had huge potential for a multitude of things.
“As locals, we also didn’t want it being sold to developers and turned into housing, so we set about trying to make our vision a reality and actually buy the premises.
Continued on Page 12
By road from Tewkesbury take the A438 to Ledbury and turn off to Forthampton. At the duck pond turn left and follow the road to the end.
Ledbury Road Service Station - set to re-open soon
19 Stanford Road, Northway, Tewkesbury GL20 8QU Tel 01684 212042 • Mobile 07891 546235
Email neil@njwpayrollsolutions.co.uk
Website www.njwpayrollsolutions.co.uk
The West coast of Ireland in 2018 is the setting but the focus of the story are the events surrounding a group of six teenage schoolfriends in the summer of 2003 and how fifteen years later those events are still affecting the residents of Kinlough. Three of the friends are reunited after some have returned to the town for a family wedding.
The group consist of three boys, Mush, Joe and Aidan, who performed as a band of musicians. The girls are Helen, Aiofe and Kala. It is Kala's disappearance back in the autumn of 2003 that comes to haunt Mush, Joe and Helen over this long weekend. Joe and Kala were very close, a dating couplefirst love.
The story takes place from Friday through to Tuesday and is seen through the eyes of these three where we learn about their lives, how they have evolved, or not, but all are damaged by the memories of Kala. They each have recollections of seeing her just before she vanished, without trace, until her remains are discovered on a building site that very weekend. Such coincidences are what good fiction is made from - this is good fiction; indeed as the book develops so the pace of it quickens up as the mystery of Kala's disappearance is gradually revealed.
Mush has remained in Kinlough helping his mother in her "caf". Helen escaped leaving behind her father and younger sister, Theresa. While Helen scratches a living as a freelance journalist in Canada, Joe has prospered in America as a musician. Joe is famous, recognised wherever he goes and is investing in his home town doing up a bar; such fame has its drawbacks. The book opens with Helen arriving in town. Joe is already
there staying with his parents whilst supervising the renovations of the pub.
Mush is where Mush always is, serving coffees and then spending lonely evenings drinking beers. His one relief, seemingly, are his twin cousins, Donna and Marie, but Mush is physically damaged as well as traumatised after his close friendship with Kala.
The family connections are diverse and intermingled. The planned wedding is Helen's father to Mush's aunt, the mother of Aidan and the twins. There is a helpful index of the main characters which is needed. The complexity of these relationships are important; Aidan and Mush were cousins, each part of their family seemingly having differing lifestyles, priorities and standards.
The story unfolds, revealing the intrigues of the past, not forgotten subterfuges and how Kala's death is influencing these families over the weekend as new dramas and possibly criminology blight the lives of each of the families involved. This is an ambitious novel not a who-or-whydunnit; it works as a book as each strand of the storyline is linked together with the reader left understanding the sad short life of Kala.
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
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• Overnight
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Autumn jazz season at the Fox and Hounds
The 'Jazz at The Fox & Hounds' live gigs resume after the August break on the first Wednesday of every month.
Wednesday 4th September will be pretty special, with a return visit from the internationally acclaimed pianist, David Newton.
David has featured in the annual British Jazz Awards as Best Jazz Pianist for no less than sixteen separate years.
The Fox & Hounds is delighted to welcome him back to Bredon after his stunning performance there earlier in the year.
CHEERS WITH BEERS
The North Cotswold CAMRA Beer Festival is back at Moreton-inMarsh this month.
The 17th annual festival brings a range of 45 real ales plus 20 ciders and perries to the cricket club on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th September. For more details and tickets, see the website northcotswoldcamra.org.uk
David has worked with some of the best musicians and singers in the business, including Marion Montgomery, Stacey Kent and Claire Martin.
As well as travelling the world for live performances and recording, he has worked as an arranger and composer in the theatre. He has also composed haunting themes for more than twenty TV movies.
The music starts at 7.30pm at the Fox & Hounds and there's a raffle, but no admission charge. To book a meal, contact the pub at bookings@foxandhoundsbre-
don.co.uk, or ring on 01684 772377.
LADIES RUNNING GROUP STARTS UP AGAIN
Tewkesbury Allrunners have their beginners running group starting up again on Tuesday 10th September.
The ladies only running group meets at 6.00pm at The Sea Cadet Unit, Trinity Walk, which is off Oldbury Road, Tewkesbury. There is also a ‘Back to Running Group’ on that same evening.
The running group is celebrating its fifteenth year in Tewkesbury and welcomes new members. For more information about Tewkesbury Allrunners, please e-mail Kathy at kathy.adrian.lewis@gmail.com
David Newton
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International folk stars head for Tewkesbury
Her name was the answer to a question on BBC Radio 4’s Counterpoint, she is featured on the O2 National Music Map, supported by the Arts Council and was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her guitar work - yet Sarah McQuaid remains largely unknown to the general public.
Now based in rural Cornwall, Madrid born and Chicago raised Sarah aims to go a small distance to changing that with a 55 show Autumn tour across the UK and USA. She arrives at Tewkesbury’s Roses Theatre on Tuesday 3rd September.
This year Sarah has been taking her music out to venues away from mainstream theatres, including village halls and libraries.
“I’m trying to build a fan base one gig at a time,” Sarah laughs.
“Shows like these attract an audience that hasn’t necessarily heard of me, but come along because it’s in the local area and not a big investment for them.”
Journalist Neil March described Sarah as “one of the most instantly recognisable voices in current music … shades of Joni Mitchell in a jam with Karen Carpenter and Lana Del Rey.”
The Huffington Post said “I’ve attended hundreds of concerts of all kinds, and Sarah’s subtle mastery onstage launches her straight into my
favourite shows ever.”
Sarah has played in Tewkesbury many times before, and her live performances are always something special.
The Roses Theatre concert on September 3rd begins at 8.00pm (doors 7.00pm). Advance tickets are £17available from the Box Office 01684 295074 and online: rosestheatre.org
Also returning to Tewkesbury this month is one of British Folk's finest singer-songwriters, Steve Ashley. Steve is back in town on Saturday 7th September, to play an intimate concert in the town’s historic and atmospheric Old Baptist Chapel.
Steve’s reputation for writing contemporary songs inspired by the
English Tradition was established in 1974 with his innovative debut album, ‘Stroll On’.
Since then his songs have been recorded by many leading folk artists including Ralph McTell and Wizz Jones, Fairport Convention, Show of Hands, O'Hooley & Tidow and Anne Briggs.
Steve has also played a significant role in the development of British folk-rock, performing as a lead singer with the first Albion Country Band, then with his own Ragged Robin.
Steve will be supported at the Old Baptist Chapel by singer-songwriter Mike Weaver.
Tickets are available from www.wegottickets.com/event/605731 or from the John Moore Museum, 41 Church St, Tewkesbury GL20 5SN (check opening hours 01684 297174)
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Local Care Home Manager receives Regional Award
If we go back 50 to 60 years ago, many people retired to specialist retirement homes and hotels along the south coast in places like Worthing and Bournemouth.
For those not so fortunate each town had an old people’s hospital. Tewkesbury Hospital had Avon Ward, for the elderly who were ill and also Holm Hospital and Tredington Hospital where others received care. Things have changed a bit since those days with the closure of most of the NHS Old People’s facilities. Now we have a range of privately run care homes in and around our area. With advancing age comes the dilemma of who will look after us, especially if we are not quite as agile as we were when we turned 21. That dilemma may not only face us, but more likely, our own families as we reach that age. As a family, we sadly had to face just a situation recently and took some considerable time visiting homes. So many give wonderful care and support. We chose Tewkesbury Fields at
Bushley for a number of reasons. It soon became very obvious we had made a good choice. Not only is the care excellent and the surroundings beautifully maintained, the residents are encouraged to take part in activities to keep them busy and part of the
who have over 260 homes across the UK. The Award was made following a poll by residents and families who supported her for the way Tewkesbury Fields is run and her “handson” approach with residents and staff alike. The calm and relaxed
community of the home. At time families have to wait to see their relatives as they are either out on trips or taking part in flower arranging, cake baking or some other activity.
Recently the General Manager, Edrianne Balayut, was awarded General Manager of the Year for the Central Division of Barchester Homes
but highly efficient atmosphere is a tribute to her management expertise and background in the nursing field. Families gathered recently to mark the Award and present Edrianne with a flowers as a mark of respect and thanks for her leadership.
By Richard Chattam, Tredington.
Email: info@haywardstewkesburyltd.co.uk
m Relatives congratulate Edrianne Balayut.
RIVER FESTIVAL DUTIES
FOR SEVERN UNIT MVS
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service have had a very busy and successful Summer season.
In July they were asked to take their boats to Pershore for the Town’s River Festival.
In addition to providing safety cover for the Wychavon Games Bell Boat regatta and other river based activities unit members played a ceremonial role when their training boat Minerva did several fly pasts with the Pershore Town Crier and Jack Hegarty - Chairman of Avon Navigation Trust - taking the salute at the opening of the event. Head of Unit Nic Price said “We were pleased to support this charitable event which raised money for the Pershore Riverside Youth Centre. A fortnight later we made a 7 hour journey up the Avon through 6 locks to Evesham where we were on duty for the whole weekend providing safety cover at The Battle of Evesham 1265 Re-enactment Festival which was attended by over 30,000 people and is held alongside the riverbank.”
Days and nights on the tiles
A photo of Tewkesbury’s multi-award winning Cross House Tavern, in the days when it was a grocer’s shop, has recently been uncovered.
The micro-pub, at 108 Church Street, was painstakingly restored by proprietor Laurence Mills, and was voted the Tewkesbury CAMRA real ale and cider pub of the year in both 2024 and 2023.
The archive photo above dates to the 1950s, when the premises were occupied by a grocery business. The staff are pictured standing in front of a smart tiled wall.
Laurence (pictured right) re-created this wall in 2019, as part of the inn’s refurbishment. The tiles were specially commissioned for the project, and made in Stoke-on-Trent.
The Grade II listed Cross House was originally two houses, built in the 16th century and
extended in the 17th century. Thomas Collins, a builder, converted it to use as his own home in the 1860s, and after his occupancy it has been used for varied commercial and retail purposes.
The Victorian-styled Cross House now serves a variety of mostly local cask ales, ciders and perries. The choice is updated on a regular basis on the Cross House Tavern Facebook page.
Staff at the Cross House Grocery Store during the 1950s
Cross House Tavern proprietor Laurence Mills with the restored tiled wall
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We have a new massage therapist who joined our team on Tuesday 9th July. Heather has 13+ years in the beauty and spa industry and specialises in all holistic therapies including Deep Tissue Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, Pregnancy Massage. Reiki and Oncology massage plus Hopi Ear Candling and Body Exfoliation and Moisturising. Heather also provides facials including Microdermabrasion and Non-Surgical. These will all be treatments that we will be offering at Body2Soul including any of our combination massage treatments.
Alongside her holistic therapies, Heather offers some beauty treatments, such as standard and gel manicures/pedicures plus eyebrow tinting and waxing which we will be introducing in the near future. What can’t she do?
If you are interested in any holistic/massage treatments then let us know. We are very excited for Heather joining our team and we have some availability remaining for her. Heather will be working on Tuesdays and Saturdays on alternate weeks including Tuesday evenings for the time being.
Heather’s September Hours: Tuesday 3rd 10am-8pm, Saturday 7th 10am-4pm, Tuesday 17th 10am-8pm, Saturday 21st 10am-4pm. We look forward to you meeting Heather at our salon
Throughout September Heather is offering a Hot Stone Upgrade to any massage treatement for only £5 extra
NORTH COTSWOLD STEAM & VINTAGE SHOW
North Cotswold Steam & Vintage Show (formally Northleach steam and vintage show) is a traditional country steam show that originally started as a steam rally in the 1950s and ran as the Northleach Steam and Stationary Engine Show from the 1970s to 2000.
After a break of 13 years, the show was successfully revived in 2013 as the Northleach steam and vintage show by Steve Freemantle.
In 2022 after COVID restrictions ended the show was restarted but due logistical issues the show was moved to a new location in Notgrove. The name has changed to reflect this new location.
It may not be the biggest steam show, but it has
certainly got tradition, a relaxed enjoyable atmosphere in an idyllic Cotswold setting.
There is a good selection of attractions to see!
It operates as not a not for profit event, with organisers and supporters all volunteering their time and expertise towards simply being able to run the show each year and raise some monies for local charities and organisations.
Bredon Cider Festival 2024
Severn Vale Vintage Club 2024 Annual Show
“We were fortunate enough to secure a commercial mortgage and put in an offer in early 2021, which we were delighted to have accepted by the owner.
“The sale was complicated as it was the first time it had ever been sold, and so by the time it finally went through in July 2022, we had a baby - Edison - who is now two and a half years old!
“Our initial plan for the site, which received planning permission and was widely supported by the local community, was to knock down the existing shop and build a larger farm shop building on the stretch of derelict car sales lot.
“Unfortunately, with the delays to the sale, a new baby and huge inflation in the cost of borrowing postCovid, we realised we could no longer afford to what we had originally planned.
“Olly had also had a bad accident just before Edison was born and spent ten days in hospital with two broken heels, so he was unable to work for three months. As if that wasn’t bad enough, a few months after the sale completed, the garage was broken into and all Olly’s tools, his recently refurbished MR2, and a car trailer were stolen!
“So at that point we decided we had no choice but to sell it on, and accepted an offer from another garage owner who had been interested in the premises.
“After six months the sale fell through, but we decided to see this as a positive thing - as a sign that we were meant to do this after all. Life had become a lot more manageable and so we set about trying to find a more affordable solution to re-opening the premises.
“We entered into an agreement with Total Energies to refurbish the forecourt, and decided to refurbish the existing shop ourselves. We were
also fortunate to secure some funding from Malvern Hills Rural Grant fund, and so earlier this year, work finally got under way.”
Ledbury Road Services has received £22,813 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
“We are now just weeks away from completion and so excited to open to the public. So many people have stopped to tell us how much they are looking forward to it opening, which has been lovely to hear.
“We’d also like to express our gratitude to everyone who have gone above and beyond to help us along the way, whether as a supplier, tradesperson, our lovely staff or long-suffering family!
“We are unable to install EV charging points currently, due to our rural location, as there is no 3 Phase electricity supply but we are keen to work with Total in all aspects of energy transition to create a more ecofriendly site for the future.”
Susannah, Olly and the team look forward to welcoming everyone to the new Ledbury Road Services - which will be a real asset to the community.
September War Graves Tour at Tewkesbury Cemetery
Since 1919 the Commonwealth War Graves Committee (CWGC) has looked after graves of British and Empire War dead.
Many of them are abroad near foreign battlefields. Some, however, lost their lives in the UK and in many cases, their bodies were returned to their home burial grounds.
At Tewkesbury, there are ten Commonwealth burials of the 19141918 war (including one which took place in 2018) and ten from the 1939-1945 war.
There are also five burials for the period following WW11.
Led by local historian Sam Eedle, the tour of Tewkesbury Cemetery will take place on Saturday 21st September and will last about an hour and a quarter. The meeting point is 11.00am at the Cholera Memorial, which is visible from the main gates on A38 Gloucester Road.
Parking is available at the Leisure Centre; no facilities on site but toilets are available at Gloucester Road car park. Please dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear for uneven ground.
To book, please visit the website tewkesburyhistory.org, where a link will take you to the tour website. The event is free, but donations to the CWGC are welcome.
APPERLEY QUARTER RETURNS
First staged over forty years ago, the popular Apperley Quarter Marathon is back on Sunday 22nd September.
This year’s event, over 6.55 miles, will be raising money for Breast Cancer, as well as local community organisations. There will also be a 1km ‘Kiddython’ in aid of local schools. For entry details visit apperley-deerhurst.co. uk
Sam Eedle at the Cholera Memorial in Tewkesbury Cemeter y - meeting point for the Commonwealth War Graves tour at 11am on Saturday 21st September.
Susannah and Olly with In The Park’s Operational Director, Harriet Davey
“We are hugely grateful to Tom, Wendy and the whole team at Engall Castle for their help in our recent move. They gave realistic advice throughout the process and reassurance when certain aspects were more challenging. It was such a pleasure to have them overseeing our move. Thank you!” BS
Tewkesbury, Toll Routes, Two Rivers Connecting History
FRIDAY 6TH TO SUNDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 12 pm to 3 pm
Tewkesbury is a historic hub of trade on two rivers Avon and Severn. Ancient Toll routes meet here, creating communication and community. Our museum now has a new roof, access to new displays and artefacts telling the stories of Tewkesbury. Tewkesbury Museum welcomes you to new display areas and new access to the top floor, following eight months of hard work from vol-
unteers, a generous grant from the Museum Estate and Development Fund, the Town Council, and Local Contractors with expertise to
renovate the roof, and extensive internal restoration during the winter months.
The new displays feature Tewkesbury, known as a historic hub for trade. Two rivers meet and converge with ancient toll routes, a place where crossing the river was possible and a vital communication route, for the Romans and Medieval 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury.
Tewkesbury Museum’s new displays
include a joint river-themed project with the local school community, Alderman Knight School, for Open Heritage Week. In our partnership with volunteers’ local guided walks, you will be able to see the evidence of trade and communication throughout the history of Tewkesbury. You can even answer our quiz, as you explore the ancient maps, displays, and an accessible interactive touch screen!
BUSFEST
6TH- 8TH SEPTEMBER at Three Counties Showground, Malvern
BUSFEST is the fun loving & family friendly event of the year for all VW lovers or just people who want to have a great weekend – so if you’re into your rusty campers, your loud off-roading 4×4’s, or your super plush vintage classics then BUSFEST is a fantastic event for everybody.
BUSFEST has so much to offer, from the extensive Trade Village, a massive fun fair, daytime entertainment including kids activities and a full blown stunt show – not to mention the seven stages for evening entertainment!
Tewkesbury Flower Club
Come and join us at Bushley Village Hall (GL20 6HT)
Tuesday 10th September
Doors open at 1.30pm
Demonstration starts at 2.00. Visitors are very welcome and entrance is £6.
The White Bear: Pub and Function Room
The White Bear was probably built a little before 1850. The owner of the site in 1847 was Thomas Vernon, a prominent wine merchant. An early owner, possibly the builder of the house was Thomas Johns, a brewer. It wasn’t built as a pub, but from an early date it served as a beerhouse.
The building was almost on the county boundary, which was then at Carrant Brook, so there may have been some trading advantage in attracting customers from Worcestershire, when county opening hours varied. Soon after it was built, the railway to Malvern split the site in half. The outbuilding, initially containing stables and a function room was built parallel
to the railway embankment, so must post-date the railway. Until about 1950 there was another building along the road which joined the pub to the outbuildings. This seems to have been a long open shed with a covered entrance to the yard. In 1959 a serious fire destroyed the function room. It was rebuilt and back in use within a year.
The first recorded landlord, in 1857, was John Hampton. Maybe he was the John Hampton who had been the Governor of Tewkesbury Gaol, across the road?
Thomas Townley, the next landlord, applied for a spirit licence in 1863, but was refused. The ownership changed in the following year, after the death of Thomas Johns. A Mr Lane bought
it for £325 and William Westfield moved in as landlord. He stayed until 1879, and was the first ‘proper’ landlord, obtaining a full spirits licence from the magistrates in 1867. After him, though, there was a long succession of very short tenancies, which continued until 1906, when
James Osborne bucked the trend and ten years’ stay started to become more normal. The most intriguing landlord was Stanley Sutton, who ran away in 1889, possibly to Canada, abandoning his wife, Lucy, who took over the licence. She died in 1890 whilst serving in the bar. The strangest
m The White Bear map 1910
m The White Bear 2007
m The White Bear 2024
event was the conviction of landlord John Roberts in 1898. He was also working as a dairyman and his crime was selling watered-down milk.
The pub’s greatest asset was its club, or function, room, separated from the main building, it was a thriving venue and the birthplace of a surprising range of local institutions. Early in its life it was hosting dinners; 100 staff from Gardner’s Cheltenham Brewery in 1871, the Tewkesbury Cricket Club and the local branch of the Railway Union among others.
In 1874 the Ancient Abbey Court of the Ancient Order of Foresters ate there, and never left. They made it their club room for the next twenty-five years. Fifty years later, the ‘Buffs’, the RAOB Sir William Rose Lodge, made it their club room. They lost all their regalia in the great fire of 1959.
In 1887 the local branch of the teetotal Salvation Army held their first meetings in the Club Room, transferring later to the Foresters Hall. In 1919 a call went out for ex-forces musicians to re-form the Town Band, to meet on Monday evenings to rehearse. There couldn’t be a better location!
The Allotment Association used the room for their AGMs until at least 1967. Tewkesbury Town AFC were very regular visitors from 1947 to 1949, fundraising and promoting the club. The Conservative Association held occasional dinners there, and in 1946 the Young Conservatives were formed, meeting regularly in the clubhouse. Phyllis Elston’s ballroom dancing classes were advertised as every Thursday in the ‘Young Conservatives Clubroom’ rather than naming the pub! In the absence of a suitable river-side property, the Avon Sailing Club met at the White Bear, moving to Chacely in 1963. There’s still an annual sailing competition for the White Bear Trophy.
For most of the middle years of the last century the White Bear was used by Birmingham Anglers as their local headquarters for the huge fishing competitions they used to run, including regular national championships. In those days, up to 5,000 anglers would arrive on trains, to be marshalled at the White Bear and bussed or sailed to their pegs on the Avon, or the Severn stretching from Worcester to beyond Wainlodes. The police always objected to licence extensions for these events, but the magistrates normally overruled them.
Of greatest significant today was the weekend
in February 1996 when CAMRA’s first Winter Ales Festival was held there.
The nemesis of the White Bear was, of course, the flooding, which is becoming more frequent. It simply became too expensive and too disruptive. It is a good sign, though, that the licence lingers on with the Inferno Brewery Tap taking over the function room, which has started a new chapter of local life for the building.
Like a lot of industries, particularly the practical ones, gardening is struggling to attract new talent, writes Tim Hoskins.
Gardening, unfortunately does have a bit of
Gardening - a declining profession
a fogey image. I thought it was funny a few years ago, when the RHS ran a campaign to attract younger people into gardening.
Funny, because the younger target audience was under 50.
Over the years I’ve had several people approach me, thinking they can walk out of any job and instantly be a good gardener.
I’ve had people tell me they fancy doing it as a
retirement job. They like the idea of leaning on a rake drinking tea all day and chatting – as if I get time!
The growth in gardening interest during the covid lockdown and desire for people to change career was because people saw leisure gardening on the same level as professional gardening and so few of them survived in a multi-skilled industry industry that is tough.
It’s not an easy job, but where else can you use trigonometry, history, ecology, geography, knowledge of confined space rescue, chemistry, mechanics, highway law, off-road driving, heavy plant machinery handling, knot tying, foreign languages, latin, biology, farming, first aid or any other of the obscure skills I have, that I use regularly? Gardening genuinely pairs art with science.
As for the pay, it’s poor to start with and it amazes me how many people do the job for the love rather than a decent wage, but although you’ll never be wealthy,
you can make a good living if you work hard and apply yourself – the same as any other job. You can cancel your gym memberships too. So, my suggestion to people with children who have yet to find their way is this, plant a currant bush and some herbs in your garden, among the other ornamental plants or plastic lawn.
Teaching people the differences between plants and that they are not just a wall of green, is the first step to identifying differences in the natural world and then seeing the tiny animals that live in it. Value can only come with knowledge.
Tewkesbury Museum is reaching out to the community for urgent help in finding a suitable place to store its growing collection of archaeological archives.
We have accumulated a wonderful variety of artefacts over the years, and it now needs a new storage area to keep them safe for future generations.
The collection includes thousands of items discovered during excavations in Tewkesbury and its surrounding area. These pieces provide a fascinating look into our town’s history, revealing stories of the people who lived here long ago.
Unfortunately, our current storage space
is no longer sufficient. Without a proper storage solution, we risk damaging important parts of our history. We are looking for a climate-controlled space of about 100 square feet. It should be secure, easy to access, and able to hold both current items and future additions. We are open to various options, whether it’s renting a space, teaming up with local businesses, or receiving donations.
If you know of a suitable space, please get in touch. Even if you’re un-
certain if your location is right, we would love to hear from you. Every
lead counts, and we’re hopeful that, with the community’s support, we can find the right solution.
The museum is also
grateful for any additional help, including monetary donations or volunteers to assist with moving and organizing the collection. For more information, please see our website, tewkesburymuseum. org, or write to secretary@tewkesburymuseum.org. Or stop by during our regular hours if you want to learn more about the collection or get involved in preserving our history.
By Elanor Stanley on behalf of Tewkesbury Museum
Manor Farm
Stoke
BLOCK PAVING
The Apperley Quarter Marathon
The AQM is run over 6.55 miles (10.55km) around a varied course along local lanes and footpaths starting and finishing at the Cricket Club. The first edition of this running festival took place in 1983 and it has become a regular annual event which celebrated its 40th anniversary in fine style on 24th September 2023 when over 400 people took part including many enthusiastic youngsters who ran in the 1km long “Kiddython”.
Each AQM raises a significant amount for the “charity of the year” and for a variety of local community causes. Thanks to the untiring efforts of the local organising team, all the helpers on the day, the generosity of local landowners and event sponsors and of course the efforts of the runners themselves, the event continues to be a success after all these years.
A large part of the local population is involved, participating, helping or cheering on the runners from the roadsides and the after event festivities at Apperley Cricket Club are enjoyed by all. For 2023 results and pictures, latest news, more information and details of the 2024 event, go to the Apperley Quarter Marathon Facebook page. SUNDAY
m The Apperley Quarter Marathon
m Kiddython
TUES 3rd SEPT:
Sarah McQuaid (Music in Eric’s Bar), Roses Theatre. rosestheatre.org
WED 4th SEPT:
David Newton Trio with singer Penny Powell, Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon. foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
SAT 7th SEPT: Steve Ashley with support from Mike Weaver, The Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury GL20. www.wegottickets.com/ event/605731
SAT 7th SEPT: The South, Subscription Rooms, Stroud GL5 1AE subrooms.co.uk
WED 11th SEPT:
Open Celtic Folk Session, Royal Oak, Bredon. Music starts 8.00pm.
FRI 13th SEPT: Go Now - The music of the Moody Blues (tribute show) Huntingdon Hall, Worcester WR1 2ES worcestertheatres.co.uk
Open Mixed Folk Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8.00pm.
Cara Dillon
The new local owners of popular Tewkesbury Take Away Chicago Pizza have launched a great menu, including a delicious range of Peri Peri Chicken.
There’s a choice of flavours for each Peri Peri dish, lemon and herb, mild or hot - with succulent quarter, half or whole chicken options, plus wings, strips and platters which can include drinks, rice or chips.
There are also meal deals on burgers and pizzas, as well as a range of dips, desserts, drinks and milkshakes.
The management are committed to providing the best customer experience, with top quality food, a great choice and quick service.
See advert below for more information.
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
Test your powers of recall with six of the best questions in this month’s Tewkesbur y Direct Pub Quiz.
1: According to ‘The Legend of the Bisley Boy,’ which future monarch is said to have died as a child and been replaced by a Gloucestershire farm boy? 2: What is an Ormer?
3: Which Scottish football team plays its home games at Pittodrie?
4: BBC’s ‘Call The Midwife’ actor Daniel Laurie (who plays Reggie) is the son of which former ‘EastEnders’ star?
5: Which artist’s first major work was called the Potato Eaters, painted in 1885?
6: New Order was formed by members of which previous band after the death of the lead singer Ian Curtis in 1980?
A unique culinary experience awaits diners at Tewkesbury’s newest restaurant, Sapphire. Run by the same team that brought Crystal Rivers to our local High Street, Sapphire serves fusion cuisine where tradition meets innovations.
The menu offers and exquisite blend of Indian and Mediterranean flavours, crafted to delight the discerning palate and offer a dining experience like no other.
Sapphire is set in a beautifully preserved historic listed building where the timeless elegance perfectly complements the innovative cuisine.
At Sapphire you can expect nothing but good
vibes and great food. It’s a celebration of cultures and culinary traditions.
The chefs have meticulously combined the rich, aromatic spices of India with the fresh, vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean.
Each dish is a tribute to the artistry of fusion cuisine, honouring the depth and diversity of culinary heritage.
You can view the new menus, and book a table online at sapphiredining. co.uk
Sapphire is open daily from 5.30pm until late at 117/118 High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5JY. Tel 01684 295 226.
Vincent van Gogh
Division
The staff are ready to welcome you to Sapphire
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD GUIDED
WALKS - Sun 1st Sept & Sun 6th Oct, 10am. Two hour walk covering around two miles. Stout footwear recommended. Walks are free, but donations to the Battlefield Society are welcome. Start from Gates in Abbey Lawn Car Park.
MORETON SHOWSaturday 7th September. The UK’s largest one day agricultural show. See www.moretonshow.co.uk
PRESCOTT HILLCLIMB - Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th September: The British and Midland Hillclimb Championships. Saturday 28th September: Vintage Prescott. Sunday 29th September: Car Club Day. prescotthillclimb.co.uk
FOREST VINTAGE SHOW - Sunday 8th September. Speech House, Forest of Dean, GL16 7EL. Vintage vehicles and machinery, event arena, trade stalls, craft tent, dog show etc. www.fvvmc.co.uk
TEWKESBURY
SUNDAY ALLEYWAY
WALKS - Sundays 8th & 22nd September. Walks start from Warder’s Alley (next to
the Acorns store in the High Street) at 2.30pm, and last for about two hours. Each walk will take a different route. £2.50 per person.
BROADWAY HORTICULTURAL SHOW - Saturday 14th September Locally grown plants, fruits and vegetableson the green at the heart of the village.For more details see www.broadwayhcs.co.uk
CLASSIC CAR SHOW - Sat 7th September. Stanway House, GL54 5PQ. 2-5pm, tickets £5. Includes admission to gardens and fountain.
SUDELEY CASTLE & GARDENS - Open daily until 3rd November. Historic home and last resting place of Queen
Katherine Parr. Events and exhibitions throughout the year. Beautiful gardens and walks.Near Winchcombe. GL54 5LP. sudeleycastle.co.uk
SLIMBRIDGE
WETLAND CENTREEach season brings different bird species and spectacles to this wonderful wetland centre. Sutable for all ages. Slimbridge GL2 7BT. www.wwt.org.uk
BATSFORD ARBORETUMOpen 9.30am-5.pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-5.pm Sundays, Unique collection of rare and beautiful trees and shrubs over 60 acres. Café, shop, garden centre - GL56 9AT. Details www.batsarb.co.uk
Continued on page 50
Chill out at Batsford Arboretum
Tewkesbury Abbey - behind the scenes
A unique opportunity to view areas of the Abbey not usually open to the public. Gain access to the Sacristy to see the famous Sacristy door which is covered with horse armour salvaged after the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471. There is even
a hole on the right side above the horizontal strap caused by an arrow. The specially designed (and award winning) cope chest will be opened to display the beautiful Elizabethan cope sometimes worn by the Vicar of Tewkesbury Abbey.
Wednesday 11 September: 10.00 - 14.00
Tewkesbury Abbey, Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5RZ
SEPTEMBER EVENTS at John Moore
Museum
m J. S. BACH – THE STORYTELLER CONCERT
A single instrument with a story to tell, one to which we can all relate, recognizing our own feelings and emotions, was and is a welcome respite from today’s troubled world.
With illustrations from the Unaccompanied Suites for Cello, in this case a Viola, built during J.S. Bach’s lifetime, we get a glimpse into his inspired use of the various keys and their relationships, making words superfluous.
Performer: Carol Hubert
Date and Times: Saturday 7th September @ 2.30pm. 60 minute concert with no interval
Tickets: £10 each
Location: Old Baptist Chapel, Old Baptist Chapel Court, Off of Church Street, GL20 5RZ
m LIVING HISTORY: TUDOR TOURS
This living history tour will take you back in time to 1580, where Agnes, a Tudor housewife, will reveal her life and daily routines as you wander through
the home she shares with her husband, Thomas. Hear Agnes talk about her childhood on a tenant farm, and of how she came to live in Tewkesbury as a merchant’s wife. You will see where Agnes sleeps, learn about a curfew, a trencher, and you may even get to see a Tudor en-suite! Okay, a pisspot but there is a story behind every object.
Date: Saturday 14th September
Tickets: Adults £3.50, Concessions £3 & Children £1.50
Location: Merchant’s House, Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5SN
Booking: Call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org to reserve your place.
m TUDOR BIRDS OF PREY
Falconry was an incredibly popular sport in Tudor times and was enjoyed by all social classes. If you were rich, a beautiful, big and rare bird could be a status symbol to help display your wealth, provide you with sport, and secure you another interesting dish to serve at your table. If you were poor, a goshawk could help you feed your family. The hawks had to be used to people, and for this reason people carried them everywhere.
Visit the museum and learn how important birds of prey were to the Tudors, plus you’ll meet a Kestrel, a Buzzard, a Peregrine Falcon, a Barn Owl and an Eagle Owl.
Date: Saturday 21st September
Times: 10am to 11.15am, 11.30am to 12.45pm & 14.30pm to 15.45pm
Tickets: Adults £7, Concessions £5.50 & Children
£3 – includes entry to the John Moore Museum and Merchant’s House
Location: Old Baptist Chapel, Old Baptist Chapel Court, Off of Church Street, GL20 5RZ
m
WELLNESS WALK AND NATURE CRAFT
Join us on a Wellness Walk through our natural spaces, as we reconnect to nature by listening to the birds sing and the sound of the breeze ruffling the leaves, feel the different textures to be discovered in the gardens, as well as the abundance of colour all around us. During the walk we will be foraging, as we will be creating sensory pouches to take home afterwards. Walk and craft will take approximately 90 minutes.
Date: Wednesday 25th September
Time: 11am
Tickets: £5
Location: John Moore Museum, 41 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5SN
To reserve your place at these events please call 01684 297174 or email education@johnmooremuseum.org.
088529
Think of the environment, reuse, is the accepted, best method to recycle.
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Witchcraft at Probus Club?
be blamed on witchcraft than any other cause.
One of our regular speakers at Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club is Kirstie Bingham from the John Moore museum in Tewkesbury and she has enthralled and sometimes shocked us with her tales of life in medieval times such as the horrific world of Tudor and Stuart medicine where she demonstrated some of the crude tools and implements used by barber surgeons of the period to treat illnesses and injuries on their unfortunate patients. This time her subject was the arcane and bizarre practice of witchcraft and how it developed in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Kirstie explained how witches were perceived as “angry women” who were alleged to possess supernatural powers including black magic or “maleficium” and were believed to be able to inflict harm to others.
In medieval times there was virtually no understanding of the causes of disease and consequently illnesses that were poorly understood were more likely to
Stimulate
Another widespread belief was that witches had animal helpers called “familiars” living with them such as toads or rats implying that an evil spirit or demon had taken the form of an animal.
Because of these accusations suspected witches were pursued, banished or punished by their communities with the result that literally thousands were executed, large numbers of them being guilty of nothing more than being “different.”
Kirstie also introduced us to a subject intrinsically linked to witchcraft, namely superstition.
She gave us several examples of superstitions that many people use to this day such as touching wood, not walking under a ladder, seeing a black cat or an owl – all resulting from ignorance and lack of knowledge typified in the era of witchcraft.
Another excellent talk by Kirstie – she even brought a broomstick!
By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club
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 SEPTEMBER:
3 Sep - The Bletchley Park mythology (with Tony Comer)
10 Sep - Tour of Berkeley Castle and Dr Jenner’s house
17 Sep - The Assisted Dying bill (with Stuart Hutchison)
24 Sep - Two talks for the price of one (with Roger Powell) 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/
Showcase of art by local School Children
The John Moore Museum is excited to showcase the exhibition boards of four local schools: Alderman Knight, Longford Park Primary, Norton C of E Primary and Twyning Primary. Our latest exhibition is the result of our grant project with the Royal Society of Science, who is supporting us to inspire pupils about the natural world.
Some pupils came to visit us at the museum, and sometimes our animals went on a little road trip for themselves, and entered the classroom. Afterwards, each participating class had the challenge to design their own museum exhibition board. What is particularly wonderful is that each board is so different in style and theme.
We have a birds of prey theme from Alderman Knight to match the school houses; dragonflies for Longford Park Primary’s school logo; a school garden habitat for Norton C of E, and a mixture of wildlife to represent Twyning’s houses.
All of the pupils have worked incredibly hard to put up information and artwork to enlighten museum visitors about the wildlife we have here in Gloucestershire.
Please come along to support the pupils and the charity. The boards will continue to be on exhibition until the end of October, so don’t miss out on seeing four creative displays by our local children.
Our Mini Curators –Natural History Project will be happening for another year, so if you would like your school to take part then please get in touch. Each participating school will receive a free natural history outreach session or school trip, a living habitat walk, a free exhibition board and art materials. After the project, the schools will get to keep the boards for future projects.
OUR PHARMACY IN CHURCH ROAD, BISHOPS CLEEVE IS OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR
We offer a range of services including the new Minor Ailment Service.
We can supply free of charge, subject to criteria, a range of treatments for coughs, colds, eye infection, constipation etc.
Don’t suffer, pop in and see us.
Badham Pharmacy
23 Church Road Bishops Cleeve Tel 01242 672653
m Longford Park Primary School ideal habitat segment
Professional stress free service with a specialist bathroom installer • Modern & Traditional bathroom suites • Shower installations
• Tiling/Paneling • Karndean flooring • All electrics certified
Join Us for our Railway Young Engineers Event
28TH - 29TH SEPTEMBER 10:00 AM TO 4:00 PM
Run by volunteers, The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway, is very unique. We want to inspire the next generation of Young Engineers…
Calling all young enthusiasts and budding engineers!
Step into the fascinating world of steam and diesel railways and discover the magic of engineering at our Young Engineers Event.
This is a fantastic opportunity for to children and teenagers to explore, learn, and get hands-on experience with the marvels of technology that helps our railway operate throughout the year.
Event Highlights:
• Interactive Displays / Workshops: Engage in exciting workshops where you can learn about the mechanics of steam engines and how they work. Departments represented include:
• Permanent Way –explore how our team lay track. Do you know our track is over 14 miles long - The procedure mainly comprises
the following steps: ballast unloading – ballast spreading – track lifting – track lining – tamping.
• Diesel Department –get inside the cab of one of our diesel locos
• Signalling – step into our demonstration signal box and chat to our signal, understand how signalling works and see them in action.
• Carriage & Wagon – see how our engineers maintain the braking systems on our carriages. Having working brakes is very important!
• Steam Department – Catch our large display which will help you understand precisely what is involved in overhauling and restoring one of our wonderful steam engines.
• Bio-Diversity – we have a large team who
work to protect our ‘nature corridor’
• GWRT – meet members of our Trust to understand more about what our volunteers do
• Youth Group –Intime, do you want to be involved?
There will be tours of both the loco and diesel sheds throughout the day.
Please check with the GWRT team in the marquee for timings.
Please note there are specific terms and conditions to these. Closed toe shoes must be worn, all under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Sadly, due to the nature of the sheds wheelchairs and walking frames can’t be permitted on the tours.
Meet the Experts: Get inspired by meeting real-life engineers and railway experts who will share their knowledge and passion for the railway.
Entrance to the event is free at Toddington.
Location: Main Car Park, Toddington Railway Station.
Gupshill Manor Christmas PartyNights
Dates available from 6th December to 21st December
At each party night you will be served with three courses of the finest freshly prepared food, to be followed by our fantastic party and disco until 12.00am.
For private function room a minimum of 75 people Sunday to Thursday and 120 people Fridays and Saturdays. Strictly Over 18’s.
Pre orders must be given 2 weeks prior to your date booked.
Sundays - Tuesday
£32.95 per person
Wednesday & Thursday
£34.95 per person
Fridays & Saturdays
£36.95 per person
DEPOSITS NOW BEING TAKEN.
Starters
Winter vegetable soup (v) (ve) (g)
Chicken liver parfait with mixed leaf & red onion marmalade (g)
Atlantic prawns with marie rose & mixed leaf (g)
All served with rustic bread
Main Course
Roasted breast of local turkey, roast potatoes, mixed vegetables, pig in blanket, cranberry stuffing & red wine jus (g)
Pan fried Scottish salmon, new potatoes, mixed vegetables & provencale sauce (g)
Vanilla cheesecake with red berry coulis (v) (ve) (g)
Mint chocolate pot with minted chocolate (g)
Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy créme anglaise (v) (ve) (g)
Selection of three local cheeses, biscuit selection & chutney (v) (ve) (g)
a £1.95 supplement applies to the cheese board
Tea or coffee served with mince pies
The last few years have been challenging due to the changes in weather patterns, particularly the extremes of dry, wet and windy periods.
Following an experiment with planting mainly geraniums last year, as a precaution against a repeat of the previous year’s weather which many plants had struggled to survive, we have again planted mainly geraniums this year.
Many visitors have appreciated these colourful displays with their large, abundant blooms.
We would like thank all of the individuals and companies who continue to sponsor these planters and display, without your support Tewkesbury in Bloom would not survive. And a particular thank you to Laurence at The Cross House Tavern who contributes to the cost of the flowers on The Cross Memorial.
If anyone would like to help with sponsorships please email tewksinbloom@gmail.com for details.
‘Thank You’ also to those of you who are removing any deadheads you see as you go passed in the High St., - this is quietly being done by a small number of individuals, totally independently of one another. That has to be true ‘Community Spirit’.
Best wishes, Karen, Tewkesbury in Bloom
1st Choice
Aerial & Satellites
FESTIVAL OF TRANSPORT
& AUTOJUMBLE
This is a long running event taking place at the Brown Gate / Wye Hall section of the showground and with car displays, live commentary and the judging arena located in a new part of the site to the rear of the Wye Halls.
Following on from a great event in September 2023, expect to see 400+ classic cars and motorcycles, up to 80 autojumble stalls, live music and quality food and drink, all set with the stunning backdrop of the Malvern Hills!
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.
General Dentistry
Detection of oral problems early with regular private examinations
Teeth Straightening
Invisalign is a clear alternative to braces, comfortable, removable and easy to wear
Tooth Whitening
A safe way to brighten the natural colour of your teeth
Hygiene Appointments
Remove plaque and calculus from behind the gum line and teeth
Celebrating 50 Years of Packwood Printers
At Packwood Printers we are celebrating a remarkable milestone this year - 50 years of dedicated service to our community. Founded in 1974 by Pete Packwood, our family-run business has grown from humble beginnings to become a cherished local company.
Pete Packwood started the company in a modest chicken shed rented from Cotteswold Dairy. Despite the setting, Pete’s vision and determination quickly attracted attention. Derek Key joined as a partner soon after, and together they built a reputation for quality and reliability. Their commitment to excellence allowed them to move into a larger unit on the Dairy estate just a few years later, setting the stage for future growth.
The early 1990s marked a turning point for Packwood Printers as Pete retired, although his dedication saw him return occasionally to assist during bouts of ill health affecting Derek and his wife Sue. The company’s family-oriented ethos was further solidified in 1999 when Derek’s son-in-law, Simon, joined the team. This addition heralded a new era of expansion, and by 2003, the business had moved to an even larger unit.
Tragedy struck in 2007 with Derek’s passing. Faced with a difficult decision, Simon and Sue
chose to honour Derek’s legacy by continuing the business. Their resolve led to another move in
2013 to accommodate growth, incorporating another local family print company whose owners were retiring. This move not only expanded their capabilities but also reinforced their commitment to supporting local businesses.
The family tradition continued when Sue retired in 2015, and Emily rejoined the family
business. This seamless transition ensured that Packwood Printers remained a cornerstone of the community, combining respect for tradition with a forward-looking approach.
In 2022, the Packwood Printers family was saddened by the passing of Pete Packwood. Pete was not just the founder but a beloved figure in the community, often remembered for delivering printing on his old butcher’s bike. He would
changes, and Packwood Printers has evolved with it. From the early days of manual presses and hand composition to the advanced digital printing technology and computers that we use today, we have continually adapted to meet the needs of our customers. Our commitment to quality and personal service has remained constant, even as the tools and techniques have transformed.
Today, Packwood Printers stands as a tes-
regularly pop in for a cup of tea and a catch up, marvelling at the new technology and sharing stories of the good old days.
Over the years, the printing industry has undergone dramatic
tament to resilience, innovation, and family values. Remarkably, some customers have been us since the beginning, with third-generation families returning for wedding invitations, a true reflection of trust and satisfaction passed down through generations.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our customers for their support over the years, we look forward to continuing to serve you and hope to welcome many new customers in the future.
As we celebrate this golden anniversary, Packwood Printers remains committed to
future. Here’s to another 50 years of serving our community with the same dedication and ex-
remembering and celebrating our past while eagerly looking to the
Rippling with life
SATURDAY 14H TO SUNDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER 10am to 4pm
Discover St Mary’s Church, a grate I listed 12 century church in a conservation area. Tours of the church, bell tower, 15th century unique misericords interaction with Sealed Knot society members. St Mary’s Church is the largest medieval church in Worcester - you can see 16 misericords, carved by local craftsmen as well as rare early Victorian chamberlain tiles. There are 6 bells by Rudhall and Victorian stained glass window by Kempe.
We are opening our door to welcome you on a tour of this grade I listed site, as well as tours of the bell tower. You can also interact with members of the Sealed Knot Society. Come and see how St Mary’s Church is ‘ripple’ing with life.
cellence that has defined us since 1974.
m Derek
m Pete
Newtown WI go steaming up the tracks
All aboard! We were all chuff-chuffed to bits on our day out from the Racecourse Station on the GWSR. Excellent information from the smart volunteer guide onboard, plus a couple of visits from the men in full uniform to be sure we were behaving ourselves. The onboard catering carriage was much busier than usual, apparently.
Beginner Bridge lessons at Tewkesbury starting in September
Come and learn this wonderful game, a great social activity, mental workout and a lot of fun.
Wednesday evenings 6.30 to 9pm
Starting 4th September
Taught by Jeannie and Dev both EBU qualified teachers £100 for 12 lessons (price includes the EBU student course book @ £30).
This is a “fast track” course for beginners and will cover all the basics of playing bridge. No previous experience is necessary. There will be optional weekend practice sessions offered at additional cost for those interested. Please email jeannie@gcba.org.uk for more information.
The little Toddington Station cafe was handy for a light lunch before heading into the bookstore [all about trains] and the gift shop [ditto].
We’d met another happy WI group, from Saltmarshe, who were going on, to Broadway, then off in their coach to elsewhere, in the inevitable drizzle marking the end - or perhaps the middle - of a heatwave.
The rain restricted the views of the distant hills, but couldn’t dampen our spirits, in either direction. A grand day out.
To join us in our future escapades, contact Julie on 01684 301267 pullenj53@sky.com.
An enlightened approach to professional legal services
Established over 40 years in Bishop’s Cleeve
We are able to provide the following legal services: Commercial Property - Residential Conveyancing Probate/Wills/Lasting Powers of Attorney Court of Protection
The Consulting Suite , Basepoint Business Park, Tewkesbur y. Telephone: 01684 276469 www.billinghamandpartners.co.uk
Regulated and Authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority 47095
SPACE at Tewkesbury Abbey - A Sound and Light installation by Luxmuralis
Journey through outer space, gaze up at emerging galaxies, and explore the wonders of the heavens, as you make your way through Space by Luxmuralis at Tewkesbury’s magnificent Abbey.
Space is a light and sound art installation created by artistic collaboration Luxmuralis; who have been touring cathedrals and churches in England for several years.
This experience, in which Luxmuralis return to Tewkesbury three years after their Festival of Lights installation in Autumn 2021, will take visitors on an exploration through galaxies, outer-space and the ambition to adventure beyond.
Stunning projections onto the Abbey’s 900-year-old architecture will showcase the vastness of the universe, planetary exploration, and show the final image of Earth, looking back from space under a galaxy of stars.
In an experience lasting about 45 minutes, visitors will enter the Abbey in darkness through the North Door, before journeying around the building, encountering vibrant projections in different areas, accompanied by an immersive soundscape.
The experience includes an awe-inspiring projection in the Nave,
the central aisle of the Abbey. The space will be clear of pews, and visitors can use the seating at the sides to take a moment to pause, look out into space and ponder the fragility of humanity and our own planet.
Vicar of Tewkesbury Abbey, Revd. Canon Nick Davies says; “We’re really excited that Luxmuralis is returning to the Abbey and hope that this will be another breathtaking opportunity for people to marvel at the heavens and the wonders of creation. This is a spectacular installation in an awe-inspiring building and we look forward to welcoming tens of thousands to enjoy it. We would encourage people to book early to avoid disappointment.”
About Luxmuralis.
Luxmuralis is a collaborative team combining artists from different backgrounds and artistic disciplines. The team’s aim is to take visual art to public places.
The artwork and visual imagery is created by Peter Walker, Lead Artist and Artistic Director. His vast port-
folio of artwork consists of large-scale sculpture, commissioned and bespoke sculptural works as well as paintings, drawings, film, and sound and light installations shown throughout the UK and abroad. With works most recently seen at The Tower of London, The British Embassy in Paris, Minesota, Westminster Abbey, Chatsworth House and many UK Cathedrals. David Harper, Lead Artist and Composer, created the musical soundscape for Space. The music he writes and produces has been used for BBC and Channel 4 TV productions, as well as sound art installations which are frequently exhibited throughout the UK.
Adults: £12, Children: £10, Under 3s: Free. Suitable for all ages. Sessions last 45 minutes - you are welcome to stay as long as you like.
Tickets must be booked in advance, either online or via The Roses’ Box Office on 01684 295074, Tewkesbury Abbey and The Roses (rosestheatre. org).
• Terracotta, glazed and plastic pots • Specialist bird care products
22ND – 27TH OCTOBER 2024
WORCESTERSHIRE
LIVING HISTORY SHOW
Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September. Fish Meadow, Uptonupon-Severn, WR8 0PB. Multi-period re-enactment of 2000 years of history. Skirmishes, displays, beer tent, food and traders. Open 10am5pm Sat and 10am-4pm Sunday. Admission Adults £10, children (516 years) £5, under 5s free. Family tickets £30.
CHELTENHAM
LITERATURE FESTIVAL
Friday 3rd - Sunday 14th October. Held in a wide variety of venues across the town, the world’s first literature festival marks its 75th anniversary this year. Helping to celebrate the written and spoken word this year will be Judi Dench, Miriam Margolyes, Lynda La Plante, William Hague, Alice Roberts, Ben Miller,
Russell Kane, Monty Don, Kate Mosse, Caitlin Moran, Richard Ayoade, Michael Rosen, Richard Osman, Bob Mortimer, Richard Coles, Mike Batt, Jacqueline Wilson, Lorraine Kelly, Pam Ayers, Julian Clary, Adrian Chiles, Geoff Hurst, Ian Rankin, Russell Watson, Carol Vorderman, Boris Johnson, Michael Palin, Alison Steadman and Trevor MacDonald. For the full programme and tickets visit the website cheltenhamfestivals.org
BERKELEY CASTLE
Sunday 1st SeptemberWed 30th October (SunWeds only). Strictly Come Dancing Costume Exhibition. From 11am. Included in standard admission price. Berkeley Castle, GL13 9BQ.
A light and sound installation created by artistic collaboration Luxmuralis Details and advance tickets are available from www.rosestheatre.org/ tewkesburyabbey
WESTONBIRT
NATIONAL ARBORETUM
Fri 4th-Mon 7th Oct, 10am-5pm, Cotswold Guild of Craftsmen. Fri 18th-Sun 27th Oct, 10am-4pm. Pots and Paintings Exhibition. Sat 26th & Sun 27th Oct, Coppice Market. Mon 28th Oct - Fri 1st Nov, Trees for the Future (family event). All events at the national arboretum with over 2500 species of trees, a tree top walk and a magical atmosphere. Near Tetbury, GL8 8QS Tickets and more details forestryengland.co.uk
GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE
STEAM RAILWAY
Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th October, Autumn Showcase. An intensive weekend timetable with heritage steam and diesel haulage, goods trains brake van rides, behind the scenes access and running after dark. Award winning railway runs from Cheltenham Race Course to Broadway. Tickets and info from www,gwsr.com
Leading writers head for Cheltenham
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NEWENT’S LAKESIDE WALK
This month’s route is something a little different, writes Jack B. Walker. Every now and then I get asked if I can recommend a walk which is suitable for families, or those with mobility issues. Hopefully this gentle stroll around the lake in the delightful ‘black and white’ town of Newent ticks both boxes.
Newent - like Tewkesbury, has a good number of half timbered buildings which date back to the 15th/16th centuries.
There is a medieval buildings walk, which can be found on the internet, but our route explores a gem of a lake which is in the heart of the town centre.
The path is accessible for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.
These are the grounds of the former Newent Court, which once stood above the lake where the modern housing development now is.
This delightfully landscaped area is a haven for wildlife. The lake is stocked with fish, there are ducks and coots on the water - as well as kingfishers - and the surrounding woodland is a breeding habitat for many species, including birds of prey.
The paths around the lake are well maintained and the route easy to follow, with regularly spaced benches for pic-
nics and relaxation.
Look out, too, for a number of woodcarvings representing the local wildlife.
From the town’s main car park, take the path to the left which follows the edge of the lake (1) passing a small fountain on your right.
Carry on to the end of the lake, and stay on the path to the right (2) to loop around, then follow it until you reach the end of the water.
Look for a path on the left (3) which takes you across a footbridge and across into St Mary’s Churchyard. (For a more accessible and shorter route back to the car park, keep following the lakeside path).
For the longer walk, pass the church (built in 1250) on your left, and go through the gates out on to Church Street (4)
Bear right and walk into the town centre, passing the Shambles (now an arts and crafts retail centre), to reach
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the attractive Grade II Listed Market House, which was built in the late 16th century (5). Carry on along Broad Street - look out for the Tudor Fish & Chip Shop (1465!) on your left just past the Market Halland after passing more shops turn right (6) to return to the car park.
DISTANCE: Approx 1.5 miles. Flat; good paths
PARKING: Car Park in Newent Town Centre (first hour’s parking free at the time of writing)
REFRESHMENTS: wide choice of cafés, pubs, shops and bars in Newent Town Centre. Plenty of benches in the park around the lake MAP: Map above is not to scale. OS Explorer Map OL14 (WyeValley & Forest of Dean) or the OS Map App for mobile phones are recommended.
WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOCAL SCENE with Cate Cody
TEWKESBURY
GOES WILD - A big thank you to everyone who helped to make Tewkesbury Goes Wild another excellent July, with a free, outdoor nature-based event every day. Each host was very appreciated. Highlights this year included the Big Butterfly Count, Silence in Nature, The Night Walk, River Tours Theatre and the Quiz. Thanks to everyone who came along to make mini ponds, learn exciting facts about plants and animals or just enjoyed time in fabulous, local green spaces.
SECONDHAND
SEPTEMBERIt's Secondhand September! Look out for things like clothes swap events or come along to the Repair Café.
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Next session due Saturday 21st September. Held in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm. Please double check before
travelling. Bring electricals, toys, clothes, costume jewellery, anything that needs fixing. Tools can also be sharpened. Tea and coffee available while you wait.
DAYTIME DANCEwith Cate and George; Monday 9th September, 2.00pm-4.30pm at the Watson Hall. Please note the later start time just for September. Dancing encouraged, but only optional if you’d just like to enjoy the music, watch the dancers, or have a chat and a cup of tea! Free event - all welcome. There will be someone to say hello when you arrive, so you can come on your own or with friends.
FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - next meetingMonday September 16th, 7.30pm in the Cross House.
FREE EVENTS AT TEWKESBURY ABBEYHidden Nature Trailfamily trail around the Abbey, 2nd September to 20th October and
Wild About the Abbey, meeting at the front of the Abbey, Saturday 7th September, 10.30am–12 pm; in partnership with Tewkesbury Nature Reserve and The John Moore Museum, a drop-in, family friendly, all-age event, exploring the amazing trees around the Abbey with a scavenger hunt, bark rubbing, leaf collages and making pine cone bird feeders.
PRIORS PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD PROJECT -Priors Park Neighbourhood Project has a new gardening project! This initiative brings together weekly garden groups composed of dedicated volunteers who will cultivate herbs, vegetables, and fruit. The fresh produce will support both the pantry membership, cooking classes and the broader community. The project aims to teach participants essential skills in planting, growing and cooking as well as contributing to the development of the garden space. The garden will feature raised
wooden bed planters made via the Community Woodworking Sheds Project and using entirely upcycled materials. CCP, Tewkesbury Nature Reserve and Cllr Cody have all supported this new project. If you are interested in volunteering with the garden project - please either call 01684 290069 or email info@ppnp.co.uk
TEWKESBURY
NATURE RESERVENew Carers Social Group. Meet others, socialise, enjoy the outdoors and nature related activities on the Fourth Monday of the month, 10-11.30am, contact 3w@tewkesburynaturereserve.org. uk
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPif you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail. com
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - for information see the website www.gloucestershire recycles.com
Fountain in Newent Lake
Market House
Fox (left) and owl carvings on the lakeside walk Tudor Fish & Chip Shop
UTILITA ARENA, BIRMINGHAM 13 Sept: Texas 15 Sept: Jonas Brothers 27 Sept: Janet Jackson www.utilitaarenaham. co.uk
NEC BIRMINGHAM 1-4 Sept: Autumn Fair 14 Sept: The Cat Show 20-22 Sept: The Good Clothes Show www.thenec.co.uk
CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL
7 Sept: James Bond Concert Spectacular 14 Sept: Tubular Bells 2 Oct: Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit cheltenhamtownhall. org.uk
