Inside this issue you’ll find lots of information about fairs, festivals and special events happening in the area.
There are steam rallies, flower shows, fetes and entertainment to keep the kids from getting bored - as well as much to enjoy in the great outdoors.
If music floats your boat, there’s Lakefest at Eastnor Castle, App-Fest at Longdon, and the Sunshine Festival at Upton-upon-Severn. See page 31 for line-ups.
Talking of floating boats, Bredon Boat Races - now in their eleventh year - take place on the Avon on Saturday 31st August. You can even take part yourself - see page 29 for more information.
If you enjoyed the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, you might want to check out the Battle of Evesham re-enactment over the first weekend in August, and neighbouring Pershore hosts its
Phase one of the development is now fully operational. See www.cotswoldsdesigneroutlet.com for details and trading hours.
annual plum festival in the town centre over the Bank Holiday Weekend. Winchcombe’s popular traditional show is also taking place on Bank Holiday Mondaysee page 16.
There’s a chance to check out the World’s tallest gravity fed foun-
tain at Stanway House on Sunday 17th August, set in 20 acres of magnificent garden beneath the Cotswolds. There are more gardens open throughout the month in aid of the National Gardens Scheme toosee page 29 for a list.
Continued on page 3
“Whenever I need my car looked after, Northway Lane MOT are my first choice” Dom Joly, Comedian
Long Island
by Colm Toibin Paperback £9.99
This is a sequel to "Brooklyn" published back in 2009 and subsequently made into a well received film; readers can now find out more about the lives of Eilis Lacey and Jim Farrel. What happens when Eilis does finally return to Ireland for the first time after her sudden departure 20 years earlier. Then she had left Jim without any warning or explanation, their flourishing romance unfulfilled.
Eilis had returned to New York to her husband Tony Fiorello, whose existence she had not mentioned to Jim, even to her mother or others within her home town of Enniscorthy. Twenty years on she is apparently happily married with two teenage children, Rosella and Larry. That domesticity though is shattered by a man calling at the door to their house; what he has to say has major implications on her marriage and her relationship with Tony and his family. They are close-knit Italian immigrants who now reside in a small close, his two brothers and their families all living alongside Tony's parents; everyone knowing each other family's business. Eilis the sole Irish amongst Italians.
The first 50 pages are based in Long Island setting the scene and the author's creation of an Italian family reads very authentically.
To escape and think things through, away from Tony and her in-laws; Eilis decides to fly home to Ireland for a change of scenery. This coincides with her mother's 80th birthday. She arrives on her own but is to be joined in time for the celebrations by her children who have never met their grandmother.
Enniscorthy is a small town near the coast; Jim is still there, unmarried, now running his father's pub which is flourishing. Eilis's friend Nancy and one of her brothers are still living their lives as before. Her mother's house little changed, the town hardly altered. It is mid-1970s, Ireland itself still very rural and traditional. Nancy, a
widow for five years, now runs the town's fish and chip shop aided by her son. It is across the town square from Jim's pub. She is concentrating on the imminent wedding of one of her daughters and invites Eilis to attend, where of course Jim is also a fellow guest.
However, Jim and Nancy have started a secret relationship which is growing stronger and Nancy has plans for their future which Jim is quite happy with, at least until sighting Eilis in town and then meeting her at the wedding. How these events pan out over the summer and after the arrival of her children fills the narrative. Small town Ireland, everyone sees everything, this has parallels with Eilis's family life in Long Island. Then over the birthday celebrations her other brothers and nephews add to the family pressures; Larry going with his uncles around the local pubs, including Jim's. There are eyes everywhere and how Jim and Eilis manage to meet to understand their feelings towards each other is the substance of this sequel to "Brooklyn."
I have often said Colm Toibin is at his best when his novels are located in Ireland, here he succeeds also so well with the Italian family; he is a master craftsman and storyteller and the reader becomes immersed in the rural backwater and townsfolk of Enniscorthy.
A great holiday read.
Selected by: Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s
Continued from Page 1
Up to 3000 campervans are expected to head for the Malvern hills over the weekend of 15th17th August.
One of the UK’s leading Country Music weekenders, The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show (at the Three Counties Showground) has three venues of live music, and in excess of 450 new and used motorhomes and campervans for sale within the exhibition
MORE FAMILY FUN IN AUGUST
area. The camping fields cater for motorhomes, campervans, caravans and tents with all pitches including four nights of entertainment. Tickets are also on sale for the Saturday evening headline show with performances from Luke Combs UK and The Shania Twain Story. For more details check out the website www. threecounties.co.uk
NEW OUTLET FOR TEWKESBURY’S BLUEBELL WOOD FLORIST
Tewkesbury’s Bluebell Wood Florist are now offer ing great creative cut flower bouquets and floral displays from their new flower stall at Cotswolds Designer Outlet Centre.
As well as offering gorgeous blooms to the huge influx of new customers, Bluebell Wood’s owner Jackie Dean also created floral displays for the centre itself. Bluebell Wood are still taking orders online at www.bluebellwoodflorist.com Pictured above are Ian and Jackie at the new Designer Outlet Centre.
Tewkesbury’s John Moore Museum has lined up a very full programme of events this summer, and you can check out their calendar on page 45. 2025 is the fiftieth
anniversary of the Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza - with thousands of vintage vehicles heading for South Cerney Airfield over the first weekend in August.
More on page 19. There’s also a steam fair up in the Cotswolds at Notgrove on 30th and 31st August - find out more on the website northcotswoldsteamshow. co.uk
There are family events in Twyning, at the Black Bear Inn, Sudeley and Eastnor Castles - and if you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll find most National Trust properties are running special events and trails over the summer. Whatever you are planning to do over the holidays, enjoy yourself!
How many times have you picked up a chisel or a pair of shears only to wish they were sharper?
Well now you don’t need to worry! Twyning Mens Shed can sharpen your tools and make them useable again.
We regularly sharpen chisels, flat blade screwdrivers, garden shears, even scissors and so long as the blades are straight, we can get them cutting chopping or paring better than before! Just one of the many things we do …
You probably know that we service mowers and engine powered garden machinery, but did you know we repair garden furniture? We can reslat your benches, cut out the rotten leg and replace the timber, and repaint the fading metal work of cast iron furniture.
We have skills to repair domestic furniture too – modern and antique – wobbly chairs, broken backs, loose arms all get sorted at the Shed! Soon we will have an electrolysis tank for de-rusting, and we also have a small ultrasonic cleaner that
brings many small items looking like they were cared for!
Radar and electronic experts can fix many, (but not all!) electrical problems – it always surprises me what the guys will take on, and successfully too!
We made a pair of 6ft gates for one local house and they were delighted with the outcome - and
what is a Dog Stick Library you might ask? Well we made one! We think out of the box, so you might like to think – especially before you throw it away – could it be repaired or would it be useful to someone else? If that’s a Yes, then pop down to Green Farm on a Tuesday or Wednesday and see what we can do for you!
m A proud moment from the workshop – a custommade pair of 6ft gates
Mending with Gold: The Fostered Lion and the Artist Who Painted It
Right now, the streets of Cheltenham and Gloucester are bursting with colour, courage and creativity as the Lions at Large sculpture trail brings 32 majestic lion sculptures and 56 little lion cubs to life across the city.
Among them is a particularly powerful piece already turning heads outside GL1 Leisure Centre in Gloucester - a golden-seamed lion sponsored by Gloucestershire County Council Fostering Service, and painted by local Tewkesbury artist Sam Morris.
Families, friends, and passers-by are stopping daily to snap selfies and take in the striking design - and for good reason.
Sam’s lion tells a story of healing, resilience, and hope.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, Sam continued her creative work throughout treatment.
When invited to take part in Lions at Large, she channelled her experience into every brushstroke, drawing on the Japanese art of Kintsugi - the traditional practice of repairing broken pottery with gold.
“Kintsugi doesn’t try to hide the damage,”
Sam says. “It highlights the cracks as something beautifulproof that something broken can be made strong again.”
Lion sponsors Karen Etheridge and Tammy Wheatley from Gloucestershire Fostering Service (GCC) and Tewkesbury artist artist Sam Morris
It’s a message that deeply resonated with the Gloucestershire County Council Fostering Service, whose work with children and young people mirrors this spirit of transformation and care. Their sponsorship of the lion celebrates the strength that comes from being held, supported, and seenwhether in a foster family or during a health crisis.
The trail, which runs until September, is completely free and a fantastic way to explore the
area on foot.
Funds raised go directly to The Big Space Cancer Appeal, helping to build a much-needed, state-of-the-art facility at Cheltenham General Hospital.
If you haven’t yet followed the trail, there’s still time to get involved.
Start your journey at GL1 Leisure Centre and meet the lion who’s helping remind us all that even the deepest cracks can be mended with care and kindness.
For more information, visit lionsatlarge.co.uk
Now introducing a range of HANDCRAFTED FAUXWOOD SHUTTERS manufactured in the UK with a magnificent lead time of 3 to 4 weeks. You can choose them in any (RAL) colour or match them to any Farrow & Ball paint chart.
An extensive range of blinds, curtains, tracks, poles & accessories • FREE DESIGN ADVICE • FREE FITTING • FREE MEASURING
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Volunteers Needed
Cotsold Riding for the Disabled
within the
You will be helping to provide life changing riding lessons to some of our 150+ riders. You don’t even have to be ‘horsey’ - we can train you!
01242 584420
info@cotswoldrda.org.uk
Charity No. 1160676
Help Bring a Changing Places Toilet to Tewkesbury!
Are you disabled, or do you care for someone who is? Do you sometimes feel trapped at home because suitable toilet facilities simply aren’t available?. We want to hear from you.
Tewkesbury currently has no Changing Places toilet - a fully accessible facility designed for people with profound and multiple disabilities who need additional support. These toilets go beyond the standard accessible loo, offering essential equipment such as:
• A height-adjustable adult-sized changing bench
• A ceiling track hoist
• Ample space for a wheelchair and carer
Without these features, many people are unable to confidently leave home or travel far.
Tewkesbury Baptist Church is exploring the possibility of including a Changing Places toilet as part of its refurbishment plans on Station Road. This would not only benefit church and community users but also open up the town for residents and visitors who currently face real barriers.
But we need your help.
To secure funding, we must show that there is a genuine need for this facility—and that it will be
used. If a Changing Places toilet in Tewkesbury would make a difference to you, a family member or someone you care for, please get in touch: Email: office@tewkbaptist.org.uk
Or drop a note through the church letterbox on Station Road, explaining how this facility would help you or someone you know.
Your voice could help unlock access, dignity and freedom for many in our community.
m An example of a Changing Places Unit
TEWKESBURY FLOWER CLUB
Our next meeting is on Tuesday 12th August at Bushley Village Hall, GL20 6HT Doors open at 1.00 and the meeting begins at 2.00. No experience is necessary, just a relaxing afternoon watching a demonstrator arrange beautiful flowers. Entrance for visitors is £6. Come and join us!
THE BATTLE OF EVESHAM
Step back in time with us to the 13th Century when the Battle of Evesham is brought to life on the 1, 2 & 3 August 2025. The free to attend event, takes place in the Heart of Evesham, featuring a medieval festival and camp with life-demonstrations of cookery, weapons and medicine, plus the main battle re-enactment.
The action-packed weekend will include hundreds of re-enactors fighting ‘to the death’ on Saturday and Sunday.
The Battle of Evesham Grand Parade, with
mounted knights in full armor will wind its way through the town Saturday.
Via the entrance on
Severn Unit attend Armed Forces Day Church Parade
Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service attended this year’s Armed Forces Church Parade organised by the British Legion with services held in Tewkesbury Methodist Church and afterwards around the Cenotaph.
Evesham’s Crown Meadow, visitors can watch medieval musicians and dancing at the camp, along with craftsmen demonstrations and medieval cookery.
In addition, next to the camp, there will be falconry and equestrian displays, treasure trails and children’s activities. Various stalls and food outlets will be selling a range of dishes and snacks plus there will be a licenced bar.
The Battle itself was fought on 4 August 1265, 50 years after the Magna Carta between Prince Edward and Simon de Montfort. It was political, personal and bloody! The Prince wanted to free his father King Henry III and take revenge on a man who is credited with starting the first Parliament.
m Severn Unit MVS members Mike Seaman, Chris Adcock, David Wilson, Sue Price, Jane Thomas, HOU Nic Price and David Peet outside Tewkesbury Methodist Church
New businesses open in Tewkesbury area
Three new businesses have recently opened in Tewkesbury, bringing new services and fresh employment opportunities to the area.
The Patisserie Box, an independent bakery based in Cirencester, has opened a kiosk at the new Cotswolds Designer Outlet Centre.
Founded by husband and wife team Bee and Xavier Pelloux, the business offers luxury macarons, handcrafted patisserie and dipped desserts - all made inhouse by a qualified chef team. Xavier has previously worked for Harrods and The Ivy.
The Tewkesbury outlet opened last month.
National company Frazer Civils has expanded with the opening of its new branch just off junction 9 of the M5 motorway.
Now fully operational, the Tewkesbury branch is led by a highly experienced team of nine pro-
fessionals with over fifty years of combined industry expertise.
The newly launched site spans nearly two acres and holds approximately £2 million worth of specialist civil engineering stock, significantly boosting product availability and reducing lead times for customers across the region.
This expansion strengthens Frazer Civils’ logistical capabilities, with a fleet of ten 26-tonne trucks and a 7.5-tonne flatbed operating across the company’s Wednesbury and Tewkesbury branches.
This ensures efficient delivery coverage throughout the midlands and beyond.
With stock now in place and operations
underway, the Tewkesbury branch marks another milestone in Frazer Civils’ growth and its ongoing commitment to supporting infrastructure development across the UK.
The third new business is Hailes Barn Nursery, founded by experienced early years educator Betty Morton.
In a rural situation at Hayles Fruit Farm, between Toddington and Winchcombe, the family-led business will be creating twelve new meaningful, nurturing jobs for local people - as well as providing a beautiful place for children to thrive.
For more information about employment opportunies, please email betty@hailesbarn.co.uk
Xavier and Bee Pelloux of the Patisserie Box
Frazer Civils new branch in Tewkesbury
Sophie has now been with us for three months and she is settling in really well. We are getting great reviews for her from our lovely clients too.
Sophie has four years experience in the Massage and Beauty industry and specialises in a range of therapies including Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Indian Head Massage and Pregnancy Massage and can also provide facials.
Sophie is now qualified in Hot Stone Massage, and along with Rosie has qualified in Reflexology so go ahead and book in these wonderful treatments..
Sophie’s dates during August will be: Sophie’s dates during August will be: Tuesday 5th August: 10am - 8pm; Wednesday 13th August: 4pm - 8pm; Saturday 16th August: 9am - 2pm; Tuesday 19th August: 10am - 8pm; Wednesday 27th August: 4pm - 8pm;
Zeta: Eight Months On and Business is Booming
Eight months ago, Zeta opened its doors with a simple goal — to become a supportive, inspiring hub for self-employed beauty, hair, and wellness professionals. Fast forward to today, and Zeta has become exactly that. Business is thriving, our community is growing, and the atmosphere inside is buzzing with creativity, collaboration, and ambition.
Step inside Zeta and you’ll find a diverse team of experts offering a wide range of services. Liv Bancroft brings her skills as a beautician, while Jodie of J. Beauty is your goto for nails, extensions, and gel polish. Sarah’s Aesthetics covers all
things aesthetic, and the husband-and-wife team behind Progressive Scalps offer expert scalp pigmentation services.
Tiff at Enchanted Nails
Oasis provides stunning acrylic nails and has recently added lash lifts to her treatments, while Mercedes, our newest
practitioner, is already making her mark in aesthetics.
Zoe’s Beauty specialises in all things waxing, Charlie at Sensory Skin Care focuses on relaxation with calming facials and hair play, and long-standing Zeta member Hair by Clare
continues to impress with her hairdressing expertise. We also have Tammy, The Aussie Hair Artist, offering bold and stylish transformations, Vas for highlights, perms and much more, and JoJo, who provides flexible hairdressing services on an ad-hoc
basis. For those seeking a brighter smile, Embellish HQ offers professional teeth whitening treatments.
We currently have availability for new professionals to join us, with flexible options for room hire, nail desks, and hairdressing chairs available on an ad-hoc, part-time, or monthly basis.
What makes Zeta special isn’t just the services. It’s the environment — fully licensed for tattoo and aesthetic treatments, ground floor and disability-friendly, with air conditioning, heat-
ing, free parking, and keyholder access. Most importantly, it’s a space filled with like-minded, business-driven professionals who support and inspire each other daily. Now’s the perfect time to pop in and see what Zeta is all about.
On Saturday 23rd August at 4pm by the Village Hall, there will be an unveiling ceremony of a Stone Memorial to the 7 aircrew who died when a Royal Air Force Halifax Bomber crashed in Ripple just after midnight on the 24th of August 1944. All are welcome to attend a short dedication service conducted by ex-Chaplain-in-Chief to the RAF, Air-Vice-Marshal Ron Hesketh from Twyning, in the company of other representatives from the RAF and local dignitaries.
The ceremony will be followed by a World War II themed social event in the Hall with bar and music. A ‘Fish and Chips’ van will be on site from early evening.
Sing to remember in Tewkesbury
Every fortnight, on Thursday afternoons at 2pm, a Sing 2 Remember group meets at Tewkesbury Baptist Church for a joyful hour of dementia-friendly community singing.
The group has been running for over three years and is provided by Mindsong, an awardwinning Gloucestershire charity, based in Tewkesbury, that supports people living with dementia and those that care for them.
The group welcomes anyone who would enjoy singing together, sharing memories and making friendships, and with links to dementia support services this friendly, lively group offers not only the joy of singing but support and advice too.
Julia, the vocal leader, said, “People often think that dementia means you can’t contribute or be creative any more. This group will quickly prove that wrong.
“You’ll hear us singing, but laughing too.”
One of the group members said, “We enjoy our singing with the group. We appreciate all the music and fun you bring to us and always look forward to each occasion”.
The music the group enjoys most covers popular musicals to the swinging Sixties, old school assembly songs and even a touch of rock and roll.
New members can be assured a warm welcome and, of course, a cup of tea and some cake.The group is free
(donations are very welcome) and a good singing voice is not needed, just the willingness to join in however you can. For more information please visit the website www.mindsong.org.uk or contact Julia by email, at Julia.glaudot@ mindsong.org.uk
Mindsong in Tewkesbury
SweetPea’s Doggy Deli Now Open!
SweetPea’s Doggy Deli, has now opened their new Headquarters at the rear of 25 High Street, Tewkesbury.
Serving a large range of natural & nutritious dog treats, chews as well as complete dog food recipes developed by the owners, Veterinary Nurses Claire and Lucy.
Choosing the right food for your dog is the most important thing you can do for their health. Feeding them a natural, balanced and complete food can give them a longer, happier life with fewer health complications.
SweetPea’s comes in four tasty recipesChicken, Salmon, Duck or Lamb with Sweet Potatoes, they are packed full of fruits,veggies and botanicals, all-natural and balanced and complete.
Claire says “All the recipes are available to buy online, or why not come and have a chat about your dog’s nutritional needs with our team. We have a regular stall at Tewkesbury
market & Cheltenham Farmers Market (in the Promenade, we also have regular pop-ups shops at dog friendly cafes The Boathouse (Pittville Park) Bennetts Willow Barn (Worcester) and at Coombe Hill Farm shop.
Our new shop is now open at the rear of 25 High Street, Tewkesbury
• grain free, balanced & complete dog food
• natural dog treats & healthy snacks
• touch chews (Camel, ostrich & buffalo)
• single source proteins (for allergies or intolerance)
• puppy food, treats & teethers
• LickiMats, Kong & enrichment
• free body condition assessments
• free tailored nutrition advice & support
• perfect fit, harness measure & fitting
more information, check out our website
or follow us on our social media.
Local Veterinary nurses Claire & Lucy, developers of SweetPeaʼs, their popular natural, balanced & complete dog food.
“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
Bredon Cricket Club reflects on season so far…
2nd X1 at home, where Oliver Washbourne scored 54 and Glen Whitaker 75.
At the time of writing the club have shown improvement in all areas, especially on the field. The first X1 are currently in fourth position in division 2 of the Worcestershire Count League having won 6 of their 13 games. Despite a winning run at the start of the season, form has faltered in recent weeks. We have however seen some notable performances from the club’s homegrown talent, with Will Gregory, Luke Plane and Hayden Howard showing great promise against some of the far more established sides in the league.
The second X1 currently sit in second place of division 8, having won 9 of their 11 games and are just two points off the top. In early July they beat Cookhill CC 2nd X1 away before beating Harvington CC
Winchcombe Show
Join the fun at Winchcombe School, Greet Road on 25th August, Bank Holiday Monday, from 1:00pm, for another exciting Winchcombe Country Show. Get your competition entries ready now and join in the fun.
Each year, the show opens with a procession through the town, which includes vintage tractors and classic cars. The procession begins on Back Lane at 12:30pm
As the season draws to a close, there is still much to look forward over the coming weeks. Sunday 17th August, we plan a trip to New Road to watch Worcestershire v Gloucestershire, a great opportunity for our youngsters to watch some top-class cricket. On Sunday 24th August we hold our junior presentation day, where we look to reward the efforts of our stars for the future. Our senior presentation evening will take place on Saturday 20th September. A reminder that whenever we have a home match the bar will be open for refreshments. For further information go to our website or keep an eye on social media.
and arrives at the showground at 1:00pm.
The show is an annual celebration of local talent, charities, businesses and groups and each year we donate our profits to support local good causes.
The Flower Show Marquee hosts all entries to show classes. Entries are judged anonymously, and small cash prizes are awarded to category winners. The marquee will open for viewing once the judging is complete.
In addition to the stall holders and Flow-
er Show marquee, the showground offers a variety of food, drink and entertainment for all ages.
The popular dog show is run in a separate ring, with entry open to all breeds of dog. Have you got the cutest puppy, or the dog with the waggiest tail or maybe the best biscuit catcher? Lots more categories too in this friendly dog show.
Other attractions featured include:
• Classic cars
• Falconry display
• Giant Veg Man
• Morris Dancers
AUDI, VOLKSWAGEN, SEAT AND SKODA SPECIALIST SERVICE, MOT AND USED CAR SALES DEALER BASED CONVENIENTLY HERE IN TEWKESBURY
• Fully trained technicians
• In house dealer standard equipment
• Full range of maintenance and repair services , MOT tests Haldex and DSG servicing
• Full access to Odis and Erwin VAG diagnostic systems
• The ability to up date digital service records
• ADAS camera recalibration
• Hunter 4 wheel Alignment
• Air conditioning Regas (R134A&R123YF)
• We also check tyre pressures ,tyre safety/integrity, battery condition and brake fluids
• Courtesy car or collection and delivery service available
• Timing belts replaced with Genuine parts only
• Whilst you wait appointments
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.
We hold over 5,000 product lines in our warehouse, including Stainless Steel in A2 & A4 grades, Galvanised and Zinc HighTensile Bolts, Nuts, Socket Screws, Masonry and Concrete fixings, and more.
Our trade counter is open to the trade and public five days a week.
01684 273344
sales@allfasttewkesbury.co.uk
Unit G2, Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8JH
Massive classic car auction, draws the crowds
A unique auction of a collection of classic cars and machinery drew buyers from all around the country.
Over a thousand people attended the sale in June at Whitchurch, near Ross on Wye, where Tewkesbury auctioneers, F M Hutchings, sold, over 180 vehicles.
Outstanding prices were had on a Jaguar XJS at £71,000, and a Mk 1 VW Golf GTi for £6,500.
Work preparing the sale took place over three weeks, Auctioneer, Finley Hutchings said,”The sale was a great success and thanks go to our great staff who pulled the event together,”
Regular weekly, general auctions take place weekly on Monday evenings at the saleroom in Green lane Tewkesbury,
The busy sales, are a source for hundreds of interesting and useful
lots, generating good prices buyers and sellers alike.
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.
Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza
Returns for Spectacular 50th Anniversary Celebration
The beloved Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza is set to return in grand style to celebrate a major milestone—its 50th anniversary. Taking place from 1st to 3rd August 2025 at South Cerney Airfield, near Cirencester, the landmark event promises its most spectacular edition yet, featuring thousands of exhibits, three live arenas, and a rich variety of countryside attractions.
Hosted by the Stroud Vintage Transport & Engine Club, the Extravaganza has become a much-loved fixture on the national events calendar, drawing in enthusiasts, families, and collectors from across the UK. Over three fun-filled days, visitors can enjoy a nostalgic celebration of transport history, countryside traditions, and all things vintage.
Recognised as one of the UK’s leading heritage vehicle festivals, the event showcases an extraordinary variety of vintage transport—including steam engines, classic cars, military transport, vintage commercials, trucks, historic buses, tractors, motorcycles, vintage caravans and more!
But the show offers far more than just motors. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant lineup of live music, retro fashion shows, free dance lessons, and interactive vintage entertainment.
The popular Animal & Countryside Arena also returns, featuring a charity dog show, falconry demonstrations, rare breeds, and rural skills displays—offering something for everyone to enjoy.
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
Big summer bloomers
As summer stretches toward its end, many gardens begin to fade, gardens can look a bit empty and our thoughts can turn to autumn before the
cue has had a chance to cool down, writes Tim Hoskins.
However, a well-planned landscape can still be vibrant with late summer plants.
Perennials like coneflowers (Echinacea) and black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) are drought -tolerant, attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and continue blooming into early autumn.
Their cheerful yellows, oranges and purples brighten up cottage style garden beds, prairie planting and can be incorporated into curated scruffy areas quite nicely.
Russian sage (Perovskia) is another standout for a spot that isn’t blasted by winter weather. Its tall, silvery stems and lavender-blue flowers provide both colour and structure.
It is heat-tolerant, deer-resistant, and thrives in poor soil, making it a favourite for low-maintenance gardeners. C
ontrast it with a smaller orange flowered Crocosmia that will also be flowering about now.
For those looking for drama, Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium) is a towering native of North America, but looks like it belongs in the UK, with dusky pink flower clusters that are magnets for butterflies.
It’s perfect for borders
and naturalized areas.
Don’t forget that ornamental grasses also shine in late summer.
Varieties like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or fountain grass (Pennisetum) sway gracefully in the breeze and take on golden hues as the season shifts toward autumn.
Stipa is a favourite of mine. The added advantage to grasses, is they also look good with some early-morning August frosts.
Annuals like zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers continue blooming well into late summer, especially if regularly deadheaded. These fastgrowing flowers offer a burst of colour and are excellent for cut flower arrangements.
Herbs such as basil,
oregano, and thyme also peak in late summer. Their flowers attract pollinators, and their leaves are full of flavour — perfect for preserving or fresh use in late-summer meals.
Whether in a flower bed, a vegetable garden, or a wild meadow, late summer plants extend the season’s beauty. By selecting species that thrive in these conditions, gardeners can enjoy a colourful and productive landscape well into fall.
Tim Hoskins
Function room now available to hire!
Fully private function room, own bar, dance floor, toilet facilities and outside courtyard
SOAK UP THE SUN IN OUR LARGE GARDEN
AREA
Distance: approx. 3 miles; some steep ascents.
Car Parking: Church Piece Car Park (four hours free) in the centre of Charlton Kings old village, or on-street parking - with consideration to residents.
Refreshments: The Royal or Merryfellow pubs in Charlton Kings old village. Other restaurants and bars at Sixways, London Road (A40). Choice of cafés and supermarkets in both locations.
Sketch Map not to scale - for guidance only. OS Sheet 179, or the OS Walking App recommended.
TIMBERCOMBE AND WISTLEY
Towering above Cheltenham, the heights of Cleeve and Leckhampton hills are renowned for their far reaching views over the spa town - and beyond the Malverns into Wales, writes Jack B. Walker.
This three mile route takes us to a lesser known viewpoint, above Charlton Kings, with a stunning panorama during clear weather.
It starts from the centre of the old village, where there is a good choice of amenities.
Park in Church Piece Car Park (GL53 8JN). Parking here is free for four hours. There is also street parking nearby, but please show due consideration to residents as many of the older houses do not have their own parking facilities.
Leave Church Piece Car Park and bear left along Horsefair Street.
At the junction with Croft Road, pass the entrance to the cemetery (1) and carry straight along Little Herbert’s Road.
At the junction with Beeches Road (2) keep straight ahead along Little Herberts Road, and cross over the old railway bridge. The branch line from Cheltenham to Andoversford junction, and on into the Cotswolds, once passed beneath.
Charlton Kings station was to the right, and its site is now a Lidl super-
market. The track bed between here and the old station is a rather overgrown nature reserve. Carry straight on along the road as it climbs gently, to reach the leafy junction with Timbercombe Lane (3) Bear left up along a track into Timbercombe Wood. Take the wider right hand trail, (4) through the wood, which
has a pleasing variety of trees and rhododendron bushes.
The track leaves the wood through a gate, and climbs a permissive path upwards, eventually reaching Vineyards Cottages. Local legend has it that these steep slopes were once the site of a Roman vineyard. Excavations here in the 1980s did uncover some Roman remains.
Go on ahead along the track, reaching Vineyards Farm, then follow the waymarked footpath (5) to the left, up over the field, eventually arriving at a band of trees. (6)
Here bear left across the field to meet a track coming across from
Wistley Hill, and turn left along it (7). After emerging from the trees, the path begins to descend (8) and here the views on a clear day are truly excellent.
In the west are the Malverns, with the Abberley Hills and Shropshire’s high ridges on the horizon.
The great bulk of Tewkesbury Abbey is visible too; the hazy Black Mountains of Wales begin to rise beyond the familiar line of the Malvern Hills.
Leafy Regency Cheltenham sprawls in the foreground, south west and southerly the Vale of Gloucester with its cathedral city - and the distant Forest of Dean on the west bank of the Severn. Walk carefully down the path, to reach point (9) where there is choice of routes.
You can bear left on to the lower path into Timbercombe, return to point four and back to Church Piece, or continue down across the fields to reach Beeches Road at point (X)
From here turn left and continue on to point two, then back to the car park.
The track through Timbercombe Wood
Wistley Hill
| Prune wisteria to keep size and | growth under control
| Dead head flowering plants regularly | Keep containers and baskets well watered | Pot up rooted strawberry runners | Top up ponds and water features | Improve soil by adding green manure | | Here now: Hardy herbaceous perennials, alpines, trees and shrubs |
NEW STOCK ARRIVING WEEKLY
WE ARE OPEN: Monday to Saturday: 9.00am-5.00pm Sunday: 10am-4.00pm
SUNDAY ROASTS - BUY ONE GET ANOTHER
Our roasts include; Local Leg of Lamb, Turkey Crown and Vegan Smoked Applewood Cheese and Pistachio roast -available up to 3.30pm
Speciality teas, coffee, cakes, snacks, milkshakes, ice cream and sundaes
Open Weekends 10am-4pm Eat in or Takeaway
Severn Vale Vintage Club’s Annual Show comes to Fiddington
The Severn Vale Vintage Club, a group of enthusiasts that celebrate all things vintage, bring their annual show to Fiddington this month.
Over the weekend of 9th & 10th August, the showground in Monks Lane near Tewkesbury (GL20 7BJ) will attract all manner of vintage vehicles, with both static and working displays, a range of arena events and demonstrations.
There will be a steam and miniature section, Clydesdale horse displays and rides, classic cars and motor bikesplus vintage tractors and farming equipment.
Trade stalls, indoor shopping, a bar and hot and cold food, beer tent
and bar, a dog show, plus a children’s section and play area make this a great family event. For more information, visit the club’s website severnvalevintageclub.co .uk
BEASTLY GOINGS ON AT NATURE IN ART
A Summer Exhibition at Nature In Art this month will showcase art and sculpture inspired by British big cat encounters.
A range of works will be on display at the museum and gallery’s Wallsworth Centre, off the A38 at Twigworth between Tewkesbury and Gloucester (GL2 9PA), from Tuesday 12th - Friday 22nd August.
From myth to reality, pumas, leopards and lynx are represented here in art, including visual impressions by witnesses as well as professional illustrators and sculptors.
There will also be an illustrated talk on the subject by big cats author and podcaster Rick Minter on Thursday 21st August (7pm-9.15pm). For further details visit the website natureinart.org.uk
Thursday
Tewkesbury Methodist Church, The Cross, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5PA at 7.45pm Free Admission - Donations Appreciated
For more details visit tewkesburyhistory.org
Vintage Fun
BRIDGE OVER “THE RIVER AVON”!
On one of the hottest days of the year on Monday 30th June history was made when the existing Bailey Bridge spanning the River Avon at Tewkesbury Marina was replaced after over 60 years service.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “ Severn Unit Marritime Volunteer Service was asked by Tewkesbury Marina if they could assist with safety boat cover and guard the navigation whilst the existing bridge was lifted off and replaced by a new bridge. A huge crane was brought in to do this task and all river traffic had to be stopped whilst this was being done. Interestingly the old Bailey Bridge which was being replaced was originally erected as a temporary measure but has actually been in service since the 1960’s and this in turn had replaced the original railway bridge which was dismantled in 1964 when the Tewkesbury & Malvern Railway (which was part of the old Midland Railway built in 1864) was closed.”
The job went very well and the new bridge was safely in place by lunchtime.
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD GUIDED
WALKS - Thursday 7th
August.7.00-9.00pm. Meet at the Abbey Lawn Car Park in Gander Lane, Tewkesbury (GL20 5PG) for a guided walk around the Tewkesbury Battlefield, lasting around two hours. Walks are free but donations to the Tewkesbury Battlefield Society are welcome. www.tewkesbury.org.uk
OPEN AIR THEATRE FESTIVAL - Tues 12thSun 24th August. A series of performances under the stars at the Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Dean Close School, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. Programme/tickets from www.bacontheatre.co.uk
GARDENS OPEN IN AUGUST
A selection of gardens open this month on behalf of the National Gardens Scheme. More details on their website: ngs.org.uk
BATTLE OF EVESHAM FESTIVALSaturday 1st - Sunday 2nd August. Re-enactment of the 13th century battle at the Crown and Corporation Meadows by the River Avon. Parade of Saturday, music and stalls etc. battleofevesham.co.uk
THE GARDEN AT MISERDEN - Fri 8th Aug, (10am-5pm). A timeless walled garden designed in the 17th century with mixed borders, a yewwalk, arboretum and magnificent views. Refreshments. Miserden, Stroud GL5 7JA.
KIFTSGATE COURT - Mon 11th Aug, (12-6pm), Garden in a magnificent situation with the largest rose in England. Near Chipping Camden GL55 6LN
BOURTON HOUSE - Sun 17th Aug (10am5pm).Award-winning garden at Bourton-on-theHill, GL56 9AE. Light refreshments in tithe barn.
STANWAY FOUNTAIN and WATER GARDENSun 17th Aug (2.30-5.00pm). 70 acres, restored canal and fountain, C18 formal setting. Tea, coffee and cake in Stanway Tearoom. GL54 5PQ.
CALMSDEN MANOR - Mon 25th Aug (2.306.30pm). Four acres of garden, woodland and spectacular views. Tea, coffee and cake. Calmsden, Cirencester GL7 5ET.
fruit, vegetables, wine, crafts and flowers. For full details see www. theflowershow.org.uk
PERSHORE PLUM
FESTIVAL - Saturday 23rd - Monday 25th August. Food, entertainment and attractions in the town all weekend. Exhibitors, live music, classic car show etc. www.pershoreplum festival.org.uk
EVESHAM ANGLING FESTIVAL - Sat 23rdMon 25th August. Three day coarse fishing festival and tented village by the River Avon. eveshamfestival.com
GREAT COMBERTON FLOWER SHOWSaturday 23rd August. 79th annual show with
WINCHCOMBE SHOW - Monday 25th August. Indoor and outdoor stalls, flower and horticultural show, classic cars, music and entertainment all day. Winchcombe School, Greet Road 12.30-5pm.
BREDON BOAT
RACES - Saturday 30th August, 12.00-4.30pm. A popular event now in its eleventh year. Why not join in? Teams of eight people, entry £40 a boat includes all safety equipment. Two guaranteed runs timings of each combined for a total score. Boats can be booked on the day by 12 noon. Plenty of family entertainment stalls bot-
tle tombola beer cider pimms, hog roast hot dogs vegetarian options cakes and refreshments. Bredon Boat Races, Old Rectory Meadow, Off Dock Lane, Bredon GL20 7LF NORTH COTSWOLD STEAM & VINTAGE SHOW - Sat 30th & Sun 31st August.Notgrove. Full details on the website northcotswoldsteam show.co.uk Continued on page 55
Pershore: Plum Festival 23rd-25th August
PIZZAS CALZONE BURGERS
Cross House, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB www.crosshousetavern.pub
Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct Pub Quiz.
1: Which of the following is not a cathedral? A. Southwell Minster, B. Westminster Abbey or C. York Minster?
2: Which actor played James Bond in the 1969 movie ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service?’
LIVE MUSIC
THURS 31st JULY - SUN 3rd AUG: Appfest- line up includes: Ash, Dodgy, Newton Faulkner, Chesney Hawkes, Embrace, The Feeling. Louise, The South and The Lightning Seeds. Hillworth Farm, Longdon GL20 6AX www.app-fest.co.uk
3: Which trilogy of novels by Philip Pullman consists of Northern Lights, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass?
4: Which member of the Royal Family competed in the equestrian three day-event at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal?
5: What is the primary ingredient in a falafel?
TUES 2nd SEPT:
Claude Bourbon, The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
6: Which American pop group released their eleventh studio album ‘Pet Sounds’ in May 1966?
Opening Hours Monday-Saturday: Dinner 5.30pm-10.00pm (Mon-Thurs) and 5.30pm-11.00pm (Fri and Sat) Lunch 12 noon-3.00pm (Fri and Sat) Take away for collection only - Available to cater for private functions
QUIZ NIGHT
Wednesday 13th August
£10 per team of four. 7.30pm start
The Festival Players present Shakespeare’s AS YOU LIKE IT
Saturday 24th August
As You Like It is probably Shakespeare’s most entrancing romantic comedy. Rosalind, the daughter of a displaced Duke, is banished from the court by her Father’s brother. Along with her cousin Celia, she escapes to the Forest of Arden and disguises herself as a man. She teases Orlando, a young man, who does not recognise her as the girl he loved at a distance. The pastoral world of the forest is inhabited with a colourful array of folk, looking for love, and woven into this delightful tale, full of comedy and music. Enjoy The Festival players International, outdoor evening performance at 7.30 pm in Lessex House Field Phantong Thai Restaurant 83 Barton Street Tewkesbury GL20 5PY Reservations and orders 01684 275068
Lakefest - the line up includes Echo & The Bunnymen, Kula Shaker, Busted, Groove Armada, Pixie Lott, Faithless, The Wurzels Dick & Dom and Reverend & The Makers. Eastnor Park, Ledbury HR8 1EN. Details lakefest.co.uk
WED 6th AUG: Will Powell Jazz Quartet with singer Penny Powell Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon GL20 7LA foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
THURS 7th AUG: Public Image Ltd, The Town Hall, Cheltenham GL50 1QA cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
WED 13th AUG: Open Celtic Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
FRI 15th AUG: Tom Robinson, The Sub Rooms, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
THURS 21st AUGSUN 24th AUG:
Sunshine Music Festival - line up includes Lulu, Toyah, Bad Manners, Ocean Colour Scene, Adam Ant, Dodgy, Sandi Thom, Boyzlife, and Toploader. Fish Meadow, Uptonupon-Severn WR8 0PB. Tickets and details from sunshinefestival.co.uk
MON 25th AUG: The Eras Experience (Taylor Swift Tribute), The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
WED 27th AUG: Open Mixed Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
WED 3rd SEPT: Live Jazz Night at the Fox & Hounds, Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon GL20 7LA foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
THURS 4th SEPT:
The Mersey Beatles (tribute show), The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
WED 10th SEPT: Open Celtic Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
tminsterWes Abbey
George Lazenby
His Dark Materials
Princess Anne (The Princess Royal)
Chickpeas
The Beach Boys
It is not easy to separate the deaths of soldiers as a result of battle - or whether they were captured prisoners of war who were treated appallingly.
At first, all that was known was that soldiers were “missing” in the Far East. Pte. Osborne was buried near Rangoon Jail, Burma; as this cemetery was only investigated in 1948: all we can do is “only hope that they were killed in action fighting the Japanese, rather than as POWs”.
Some had already been shipped out to Hong Kong, which was the first colony to fall to the Japanese on Christmas Day, 1941 –Signalman Joe Wilkins became one of 10,947 Commonwealth POWs.
A lot of luck was involved as thousands of experienced and welltrained soldiers –Hemming with experience of Dunkirk in 1940 and F.J. Jane in Egypt and Palestine.
The former left Liverpool before Pearl Harbor. They arrived in South Africa, however, after that “day of Infamy”, the “lucky” ones found themselves sent to Egypt to fight - or die - in the successful North Africa Battles for which they were duly awarded medals.
The “unlucky” ones
VJ80 2025 - THE POWS
carried on to Singapore: “Now came the realisation that the 5th Battalion of The Suffolk Regiment, part of a Brigade considered to be a most efficient and well-trained fighting force, had travelled 20,000 miles simply to surrender” after our “Greatest Defeat” on 15 February 1942. There is still controversy whether General Percival needed to surrender.
He was held in Changi prison with the junior POWS but other officers above the rank of Colonel were transferred to Manchuria until, on 2 September 1945, Percival closely witnessed the surrender of the Japanese and returned to the UK with the pension of his substantive rank of MajorGeneral. He subsequently led the Far East Prisoners of War Association trying to improve their compensation. He died in 1966 aged 78.
After a long delay in December 1942, the Japanese decided they needed to build a railway through mountainous jungle in Thailand and Burma to transport troops and materials rapidly by rail to assist
Local people who were Prisoners of War, held by the Japanese (number refer to location on map):
43. Hemming, Charles D. Private, ArmyForthampton20-Dec-1943
33. Key, Frederick L. Bombardier, ArmyTewkesbury03-Jun-1943
16. Osborne, Lionel H. J. Private, ArmyTewkesbury19-Mar-1942
their aim in capturing India. It was “promised” that those who “volunteered” would experience much better living and working conditions further north. That was a callous deception.
The final death toll for the 3,334 British prisoners was 61.3%. Some like Messrs Key and
Hemming were sent to work on the northern end and died of beriberi and cholera respectively – (Tewkesbury had lost over 200 to cholera in 1832 and 1849). Both deaths were caused by deliberate neglect. They were buried in Burma at Thanbyuzayat War Cemetery, but relatives
were not allowed to visit until 1996. Pte. Ryland was buried in the southern end at Kanchanaburi in Thailand, which was open to tourists from 1956, and such as I visited in 2004. Altogether it is estimated that approximately 12,500 out of 50,000 British soldiers died in Japanese POW camps, representing a mortality rate of 24.8%. They were treated so badly as the Japanese soldiers were indoctrinated, by their "Code of Battlefield Conduct”, that it was shameful to surrender.
My visit to Japan in 2004 was as a tourist when I attended the marriage of my son to his lovely Japanese fiancée. I found it imperative to learn what the Japanese knew of their war.
In the entrance of the Great East Asian War Museum is saw a restored engine from the Death Railway in pride of place – its narrative was different from mine. I learned at Wampong Viaduct on the Death Railway about each sleeper: it was said: “One of wood as same as one (dead) man”.
John Dixon
VISIT THE WEBSITE: tewkesburyhistory.org/ World-War-II for more information on POWs who were killed and some of those who survived
John Dixon in the Great Eat Asian War Museum in Tokyo, 2004
Regular readers of this column will know that at Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club’s weekly meetings we have an eclectic mix of subjects provided by our visiting speakers.
Some talks are fairly serious and thought provoking, involving science, engineering, medical matters or politics, so sometimes it’s nice to have a light hearted alternative.
Cheltenham based Phil Collins is a musician, historian and comedian who has visited us on several occasions and each time he guarantees to involve the audience with lots of fun and laughter. On his most recent visit he told us of the history of those two iconic comedy icons, Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett.
Phil described the early years of the duo, how they met at a club in London where Ronnie Corbett was working behind the bar and Ronnie Barker was just starting
there, saw their potential and invited them to perform on The Frost Report on BBC1. From then on, their careers flourished and their show on BBC television
“The Two Ronnies” ran for more than 16 years. Phil reminded us of the various features which the pair performed on the show, such as the newsdesk, numerous sketches, solo sections and rumbustious musical finales usually involving risqué lines and female costumes.
One of the Ronnies’ most memorable sketches was of course the award-winning “Four candles” and Phil treated us to a complete video of the sketch, much to the delight of members and (on this
Rarely have I heard such noisy laughter and applause on a Tuesday morning at Probus Club! 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 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 https://probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/
Looking to create a peaceful garden oasis and support local wildlife without lifting a spade? The Blagdon Liberty Solar No Dig Nature Pool is the breakthrough every modern gardener has been waiting for. This innovative, raised water feature is a complete, freestanding nature pool that assembles in under an hour with no tools, no mess, no digging. Its smart click-fit resin panels, wood-effect finish, and reinforced underlay make it both durable and visually stunning, while its compact footprint (95×95×35.5 cm) fits neatly on patios, lawns, balconies, or courtyards. Designed to fit into any garden, large or small, it offers the perfect combination of beauty, simplicity, and practicality. But this is more than a garden feature, it’s a wildlife haven. The No Dig Nature Pool includes a bird bathing beach, a wildlife ladder for safe access, and a planting pocket for lush marginal plants. It’s the perfect
way to welcome birds, bees, frogs, and pollinators right to your garden. Powered by the sun, the Liberty Solar 180 Floating Fountain Pump is also included and brings this eco-friendly pool to life with five elegant fountain displays. Its high-efficiency 2.2 W solar panel keeps the water moving and oxygenated, creating a soothing soundscape and a healthier environment for aquatic life, all without the need for mains power.
Stylish, sustainable, and thoughtfully designed for both beauty and biodiversity, the No Dig Nature Pool offers a simple yet powerful way to reconnect with nature in your own backyard. It’s frost-resistant for year-round use, light-
weight for easy repositioning, and compact enough to suit almost any outdoor space.
Whether you’re in a city garden or a countryside retreat, this pool offers an easy and elegant way to connect with naturewithout compromising on design or sustainability. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a tranquil, wildlife-friendly space with minimal effort and maximum impact.
Now available from Animals Only Northway. Unit B1, The Northway Centre, Northway Lane, Tewkesbury, GL20 8TW. T: 01684 273 050 www.animalsonly.co.uk
To see more Blagdon water gardening products visit www.blagdonwatergardening.co.uk
Across the weekend, there’ll be live entertainment provided by GlenTertainment, including family games, a disco and karaoke, bingo, a quiz and even a live singer — all adding to the friendly, festival atmosphere.
Yarnstock, a brand new crafty camp-out festival, is coming to Tewkesbury from 26th–28th September, promising a vibrant weekend of creativity, camping and fun by the riverside, Lower Lode Inn — and entry is completely free. Right now, we’re inviting local crafters to help create a huge community yarnbombed caravan project. We’re looking for knitted, crocheted or stitched squares and flowers in any colours and patterns, which will all come together to transform a caravan ahead of the festival. It’s a wonderful way to showcase your creativity and be part of something unique that will bring smiles to hundreds of festival visitors.
We’re also on the lookout for local stallholders and workshop hosts, whether you want to run a paid session or offer a free craft demo to share your skills.
To get involved, contribute squares, or apply to host a workshop or book a stall, visit www. yarnstock.co.uk. Let’s make something amazing together!
New Face, Fresh Confidence: Meet Mercedes, the Latest Addition to Zeta
There’s a new face at Zeta — and she’s here to help you love yours even more. We’re thrilled to welcome Mercedes, a passionate and highly skilled aesthetics practitioner, to our ever-growing salon family. With a strong foundation built at the prestigious Manchester School of Aesthetics, Mercedes brings a wealth of knowledge, talent, and a warm smile to every appointment.
Before entering the world of aesthetics, Mercedes spent seven years as a dental nurse, which sharpened her expertise in facial anat-
From anti-wrinkle treatments and dermal fillers, to the latest innovations like Lemon Bottle fat dissolving, micro needling, dermaplaning, chemical peels, skin boosters, and vitamin injections — Mercedes offers a complete menu of services designed to help clients feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and confident in their skin.
omy and client care. This background gives her a unique edge when it comes to precision, safety, and understanding the subtle structures that create a harmonious, natural look.
Mercedes isn’t just passionate about helping others glow — she also thrives in the great outdoors. When she’s not in the clinic, she can be found riding her beloved horse, Hovis, as an active member of the Cheltenham Riding Club.
What does the future hold for this rising star in the aesthetics world? Plenty. Mercedes has her sights set on expanding her treatments to include IV drips and polynucleotides (yes, the
GWSR – Behind Closed Doors (Lifting the Curtain)
A guided tour of loco sheds, signal box and carriage & wagon works. Saturday, 23rd August, 10:11am – 4:35pm.
This a fantastic opportunity to see what really goes on behind the closed doors.
You will have the opportunity to travel the whole length of the line; Visit our Loco Sheds, a Signal Box and our Carriage & Wagon works all with your own tour guide in a group of up to 6 people.
Your guide for the day will accompany you at all times giving you lots of information about the history of the line, how it was restored and how it operates now.
You will visit our steam and diesel loco
motive sheds where you will be able to see our operational fleet and also locos being repaired and restored.
You can visit our Carriage and Wagon workshops where you can learn about the amazing work carried by volunteers to restore and maintain the fleet of BR Mk1 carriages which are some 60-70 years old.
You will also visit a signal box and see it in operation.
To top it all off there will be lots of tea, coffee and cake and you will be treated to a delicious ploughman’s lunch at one of the stations.
You will also receive a “goodie bag” containing mementoes of your visit and a commemorative certificate.
Tickets: £160.00
For more information and to book tickets, please click here
Please note:
This experience is only suitable for those over 16 years old and you must be wearing closed toe, solid shoes for the tour.
The tour is only suitable for those who are fully mobile because of the nature of the locations visited.
famous “salmon sperm” skin rejuvenator!), always staying one step ahead in the ever-evolving world of beauty. Her ethos is simple: everyone deserves to feel good in their own skin. With her calm approach, clinical precision, and genuine care for her clients, Mercedes is quickly becoming a go-to name in aesthetics.
We are here to listen and learn about you and your business and help to make the complicated understandable. We will give you professional advice, and ensure you meet your accountancy and taxation compliance needs.
Unit 29, Basepoint Business Centre
Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 8SD
Tel 01684 854414
Mob 07767 890699
Email info@devereux-hunt.co.uk
Prescott Speed Hill Climb –Vintage Prescott 2025
The only event now held on the historic short course. 2nd August – 3rd August, 8:30am – 5:00pm. At Prescott Speed Hill Climb, Gotherington, Cheltenham GL52 9RD. Since its inception in 1938, with interruptions only during wartime and the COVID-19 pandemic, this event has become a cherished tradition for automotive enthusiasts.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Gloucestershire’s rolling hills, Vintage Prescott offers a weekend brimming with family fun, vintage vehicles and diverse trade stands ensuring there’s something to delight everyone.
The weekend’s excitement unfolds with practice sessions on Saturday, followed by timed competition runs on Sunday, showcasing the skill and precision of drivers as they navigate the challenging course.
Whether you’re a long-time member or a newcomer, Vintage Prescott promises an unforgettable experience, celebrating the rich heritage of vintage motorsport in a truly stunning setting.
Please
UPCOMING SPEAKER TALKS
Monday 11th August 2025 AMAZING AIRCRAFT
Sudeley Castle – Knight School
FOR BRAVE ADVENTURERS OF ALL AGES!! Every Wednesday & Thursday, from 23rd July to 28th August, 10:30am. Tickets: available with general admission.
Step into the world of chivalry, courage, and medieval mayhem at Knight School, a thrilling cavalier adventure for children at Sudeley this summer.
Children of all ages are invited to dressup and join the fun of Sudeley’s Knight School, every Wednesday & Thursday throughout the summer. The ancient art of sword-fighting, archery and jousting are just some of the knightthemed activities and adventures that lay in store. Everyone’s Welcome! Whether you’re a budding Sir Lancelot of fearless Lady Guinevere,
Knight School is the perfect way to ignite imaginations and make history come to life this summer.
Certified Knights!
Once training is complete, all successful participants will be officially knighted and presented with a Knight School Certificate to honour their
bravery and achievement.
The Ancient Arts Young squires are invited to train like true knights of old with hands-on activities including:
• Target Practice –Sword Skills – Jousting
• Tudor Quizzes, Worst Jobs, Stories & Dancing
• Target Practice –Sword Skills – Jousting
• Tudor Quizzes, Worst Jobs, Stories & Dancing
For more information, please visit the Sudeley Castle website.
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 AUGUST:
5 AUG - MAHATMA GANDHI PART 2 (WITH GALEN BARTHOLOMEW)
12 AUG - HISTORY’S DEADLIEST DEATHS (WITH ANGELA DUNSBY)
19 AUG - THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION PART 2 (WITH NIGEL THOMPSON)
26 AUG - 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/
Mark your calendars — the August Bank Holiday weekend is fast approaching, and Twyning has an action-packed programme lined up for everyone to enjoy!
■ Saturday 23rd August
The festivities kick off with a Live Music Event from 2:00pm to 10:30pm. Join us for an afternoon and evening of fantastic performances from five brilliant local bands. Tickets are £10 for adults and free for children under 14.
Bring your friends, family, and dancing shoes for what promises to be a lively start to the weekend.
■ Sunday 24th August
From 10:00am, Church in Chapel will be holding their annual service in the marquee — everyone is welcome to come along and take part.
Then from 10:30am, don’t miss the Twyning Motor Show, with an impressive display of classic cars and bikes on the village green. Come and enjoy a delicious bacon bap for breakfast while admiring the vehicles. Better still — if you own a classic car or bike, why not bring it along and join the display?
■ NEW THIS YEAR!
We’re very excited to host Twyning’s debut Soapbox Derby starting at 1:00pm. Come and cheer on the brave (and possibly slightly mad!) competitors as they hurtle from the top of Goodiers Lane down to the Village Green. Expect thrills, spills, and plenty of laughs. If you’d like to enter a kart, please get in touch — we’d love to have you!
■ Monday 25th August
Bank Holiday Monday
is the big one — with our annual Twyning Fete & Car Boot Sale 1:00pm to 4:00pm.
There’ll be something for everyone:
• Barbecue lunch
• Afternoon teas
• Licensed bar
• Stalls and sideshows
• Live entertainment including performances by The Rock Choir and the Gloucester Morris Dancers
• The Car Boot Sale is always hugely popular — a great chance to grab a bargain or have a good clear-out yourself.
• The much-loved Dog Show returns this year too, with plenty of fun classes for your four-legged friends.
• Plenty to see and do throughout the afternoon and a great way to catch up with friends and enjoy the summer together. Your support is hugely appreciated — whether you’re joining us for the fun, helping out or simply buying a raffle ticket. All enquiries please contact: 294292. We can’t wait to see you all in August — it’s going to be a fantastic weekend!
Enjoy watersports on our Lake!
Stand up paddle boarding for all ages and abilities
Get ready for the ride of the summer as Twyning gears up for its very first Soapbox Derby on Sunday 24th August, and you’re invited to be part of the action!
As part of Twyning’s fantastic Bank Holiday weekend celebrations, the Soapbox Derby promises a day full of thrills, spills, and nonstop family fun. Watch as brave (and slightly bonkers) teams launch their handmade, gravity-powered carts down Goodiers lane and onto the village Green in a race like no other. Expect creative costumes, wild designs, and plenty of laughter as competitors battle it out for speed, style and glory.
But that’s not all, the derby is just one highlight in a weekend packed with village festivities. Come along for
live music, classic car displays, the infamous Twyning fête, and the ever-popular car boot sale. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone.
All proceeds from the event will go to Twyning Recreation Ground (TRAC), Air Ambulance, and Men’s Mind, helping to support vital causes close to home.
So bring the family, grab a spot along the
hill, and join the cheer squad as Twyning’s newest tradition takes off in style. There’ll be refreshments, stalls, games and plenty to keep the kids entertained, making it the perfect way to spend your Bank Holiday Sunday.
Mark your calendars, spread the word, and don’t miss your chance to be part of local history. The Twyning Soapbox Derby is racing in — and it’s going to be legendary!
Contact us on twyning.soapbox.derby@gmail.com. Follow us on FB: Twyning Soapbox Challenge.
Sudeley Castle – MacBeth
A DUKE’S THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Sudeley’s royal ruins, enjoy an open air performance. Sunday, 10th August. Tickets: £15 – £20. Their production offers a dynamic reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy.
Known for their bold and innovative interpretations, the company brings a contemporary edge to the dark tale of ambition, murder, and madness.
Director Robert Shaw Cameron (Coronation Street, Regents Park Open Air Theatre, Sheffield Crucible) and designer Jessica Curtis (Hampstead Theatre, Almeida Theatre, Royal National Theatre) make a production with a cast of six industry leading actors. With a strong focus on the psychological unravelling of the protagonists, this adaption takes The Duke’s into a new era of open-air Summer touring. For more information, please visit the Sudeley Castle website.
AUGUST EVENTS At John Moore Museum
To reserve your place at these events please call 01684 297174 or email education@johnmooremuseum.org
■ TOLKIEN AND THE COTSWOLDS – THE SHAPING OF MIDDLE EARTH
Gloucestershire and the surrounding area played a significant role in JRR Tolkien’s personal and literary life. His wife, Edith, was born in Gloucester and their first child was born in a nursing home in Cheltenham. The Gloucestershire landscape through which he drove to visit his brother Hilary in Evesham, was to provide much of the inspiration for Middle Earth. During the talk, we also learn of Tolkien’s involvement in the discovery of a ring with supposed magical powers at Lydney Park in the Forest of Dean!
Date and Times: Saturday 9th August 2025 - 11am
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: Adult £7, Concession £5.50 & Children £3
■ 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 and Times: Friday 15th August, 11.30am & 2.30pm.
Location: Merchant’s House
Tickets: Adults £5, Concessions £4 & Children
£2.50
■ BOARD GAMES DAY
Are you wanting an epic all-day clash, or perhaps just a quick game or two as you are passing by?
Either way, why not join us for a fun and sociable day of board games of different difficulties and durations. Perhaps you have a game at home that you would like to play, then why not bring it along! Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available –£1 per person.
Date and Times: Saturday 16th August 2025 - 10am to 4pm
Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: Free.
■ MUSEUM WALK: BATTLE OF EVESHAM
Join us on a Battle of Evesham walk, as we uncover the tactics and characters involved in this historic clash. The Battle of Evesham (4 August 1265) was one of the two main battles of 13th century England’s Second Barons’ War. It marked the defeat of Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester, and the rebellious barons by the future King Edward I, who led the forces of his father, King Henry III. After the lunch break, there will be a guided tour of the Almonry Museum and St Lawrence’s Church, which will last approximately 2 hours. The Almonry museum has four items in the collection that link to the battle: an axe head, a skull and a sword as well as the Evesham Psalter which would have been in the Abbey during the time of the battle. There will be a handling session with replica arms and armour discussing
mid-13th century tactics, followed by a tour of the museum focusing on the aforementioned battle-related objects.
Date and Times: Thursday 21st August 2025
- 10.30am start
Starting Location: Evesham Long Stay Car Park, WR11 4ST
Booking Essential: £5 per person.
■ ASTROLOGY IN SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND
What exactly is astrology and how prevalent was it in Renaissance England? The dangers of providing horoscopes for monarchs? Can the constellations and planets help choose a propitious moment, for opening the Globe Theatre to the Coronation of Elizabeth I? How did astrology influence medicine? Ask the astrologer! How a Tudor
astrologer might foresee a 21st century problem. Date and Times: Saturday 23rd August 2025 - 11am.
Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: Adult £7, Concession £5.50 & Children £3
■ CRAFTING WITH SUE - TUDOR ROSE CROSSSTITCH
Once again, we will do cross stitch as it is one of the most popular crafts requested. This month’s cross stitch will be inspired by our Tudor ancestors to create their iconic badge. All materials will be supplied. Limited spaces – 12 people maximum. Refreshments available on site.
Date and Time: Saturday 23rd August 20252.30pm
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: £5 per person.
■ STITCHING LIVES TOGETHER
In the past many people’s lives revolved around the textile trades, trades no longer practiced locally such as ropemakers, leather curriers, hatmakers and glove makers. This talk explores the
lives of some of those working-class textile trades in Tewkesbury in the 19th century.
Date and Times: Saturday 6th September 2025 at 11am
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: Adult £7, Concession £5.50 & Children £3.
JOHN MOORE MUSEUM SUMMER ACTIVITIES
At Old Baptist Chapel, 10am - 12pm, £1 per child Hot Air Balloons 6th & 7th August
Mushroom Fairy House 13th & 14th August
Paper Octopus 20th & 21st August
Dinosaur Hats 27th & 28th August
Pre-booking is advisable
To book call 01684 297174 or email admin@johnmooremuseum.org
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Hell of the North Cotswolds
The original & classic British off-road endurance cycling event, promoted and organised by Winchcombe Cycling Club and Cheltenham & County Cycling Club.
HONC is a Non Competitive on & off-road challenge aimed at experienced riders. It is
run under British Cycling Rules & Guidelines & over challenging routes across the hills & valleys of the beautiful Cotswolds, using a combination of roads, tracks & bridleways, with significant off-road sections.
This event, now in its 40th year, will be held at
National Garden Scheme – Open Garden at Stanway Fountain & Water Garden
20 acres of planted landscape in early C18 formal setting. The restored canal, upper pond and fountain have recreated one of the most interesting Baroque water gardens in Britain.
C16 manor with gatehouse, tithe barn and church. The garden features Britain’s highest fountain at 300ft, and it is the world’s highest gravity fountain. It runs at 2.45pm and 4.00pm for 30 mins each time.
Open: Sunday, 17th August, 2:30pm – 5:00pm
Admission: Adult: £7.00, Child: £3.00
Refreshments: Home-made teas in Stanway Tearoom
Sudeley Castle, on Sunday, 31st August (gates open at 6:15am). Start times will be staggered between 7:00am and 8:30am.
Choose the right challenge for you with 50km, 75km, 100km AND 140km routes, using a combination of roads, tracks and bridleways,
with significant off-road sections.
For more information and details on how to enter, please visit the “HONC” website.
The Mini HONC is back! In partnership with Cheltenham Town Wheelers, aimed at junior riders aged 8 – 16, this is a three-hour enduro event that takes place at the Start point at Sudeley Castle.
Riders take part in teams to complete as many laps of the circuit as possible.
Entry for the mini HONC can be found on the Cheltenham Town Wheelers website.
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TUESDAY-FRIDAY 12 TIL 2.30, EVENINGS 5PM TIL 10PM OUR TRADITIONAL SUNDAY CARVERIES, ONLY £14
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WI Newtown hears Tales of the Unexpected
We - some of us, at least - were expecting spooky tales…
Well, the whole talk from Sue Dove was unexpected - about unexpected career moves.
At 11 years old, Sue’s job plan was song-writer. The reality has been about 20 different jobs, so far, and at present includes four different income streams.
Environmental Studies plus Geography led to being editorial consultant on a “dirty mag” - dealing with the drainage and sewage industry. It got a bit boring, so she moved on to supporting disabled students in a special college, at first teaching health awareness.
The students were singularly bored too, so Sue got their attention with smelly pens, pulling a hair to examine its properties in minute detail, and then introducing guitar lessons, with songs about First Aid, eyebaths, bandages, anything. Her Elephant Club, with its own theme tune, was so memorable that years later parents would stop Sue in the street to talk about it, and sing her a line or two!
The next year - teaching drama. The students soon created their own soap opera - not always following the script, but they loved it.
On to cookery - for 12 years coping with only £1 per student per week - and minimal kit. The sceptical alcoholics and narcotics users began with butterfly cakes, eventually creating full
menus, like sausage casserole, with fairy cakes for pudding. All helping with their Life and Social skills. Gardening proved useful and fun, too.
Sue went along with 15 students to the Gloucestershire Award for Disabled Students ceremony - only to find it was held upstairs and inaccessible for them. Sue later took a job which put her in charge of that very ceremony ... Throughout her
career, many of her students would be unwilling at first to take part in Sue’s proffered activities, but she had the pleasure of seeing them eventually engage, and achieve her goals of self-worth, useful skills, and frequently a proper job - like the chap who had been unemployed for 10 years, had loads of certificates from the myriad courses required by the Job Centre, but then won a job driving for care homes, after Sue advised him to use his driving skills. They could all learn something.
Then it was time for skills-learning for some of us; at the end of the talk, handbells, which emerged after a few practice runs as the WI theme tune ... just before our tea and biscuits break. Well done Sue, and the worried hand-ringers! It’s our annual trip out in August, so our next open meeting - Do come along and join us, Ladies? - is at 2pm on Wednesday, 10th September 2025, at the Wheatpieces Community Centre, off the southern roundabout on the Tewkesbury bypass. Contact Julie on 07737 271684 or pullenj53@ sky.com
Saturday 23rd August 12–3 p.m.
20 Glorious Years of Lighthouse Club!
Calling all Lighthouse Club legends!
Mark your calendars: Priors Park Community Church (The Chapel) Family Fun Day
Saturday, 23rd August 12–3 p.m.
Join us as we celebrate 20 amazing years of Lighthouse Club — two decades filled with laughter, friendship, fun. Priors Park Community Church are throwing the ultimate reunion party. Expect an afternoon packed with everything you loved and more:
• Beanbag Toss & Tug of War – Show us you’ve still got the knack!
• Meet the Goalie & Beat the Goalie – Fancy your chances?
• Food, Treats & Nibbles – All your favourites on hand.
• Catch Up with Old Leaders – Reunite with those who led the club.
• Look Back & Laugh – Spot yourself in the photo display.
Whether you joined at the start or dipped in along the way, this celebration is all about you — the heart and soul of Lighthouse Club.
So, bring your best smiles and come along for an afternoon that’s full of laughter. Here’s to 20 years of Lighthouse Club – and to making even more memories!
TEWKESBURY BRIDGE CLUB DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY
Sixty years ago this month our Bridge Club was founded by Mr H Rose who was the father of Mary Wilkinson. Many readers will remember Dr J Wilkinson, Senior doctor at Church Street Practice, and his wife Mary, who originally lived over the old practice in Church Street, and later in the ‘big white house’ on the Mythe. Mary’s father had come to live with them when he was widowed, and one afternoon announced to Mary that he fancied an afternoon’s bridge at the club. ‘Well’, said Mary, ‘there isn’t a club in Tewkesbury’, whereupon he replied ‘I’ll jolly well go and start one then!”. He gathered a few friends, and their first venue was the Tudor House in the High Street. Various venues
in the town followed, and for over thirty years the club played at the Day Centre on Station Road. Following a tem-
porary closure during the Pandemic years, our venue became Tewkesbury Baptist Church, Station road, where we
Mrs Gwen Magness –another well-known name in Tewkesbury, as she had been Mayor and an Alderman.
now play on Wednesday afternoons, from 1.45 till 5.00 pm.
It is a very friendly club, affiliated to the English Bridge Union, with around 35 members. At our anniversary party last week, Hugh and Louise Wilkinson attended as guests, and Hugh told us more about his grandfather, Mr Rose. John and Mary (his parents) were stalwarts of the club, with John being Chairman in the 80’s and Mary in turn becoming President. She succeeded Peter Thompson, wellknown in bridge circles, who himself succeeded
• Autumn planting bulbs available August
• Autumn planting seed potatoes
• Cottage garden plants, shrubs
The photograph above shows Hugh Wilkinson, Rosiah Gates (our longest-serving member), Ann Bruckshaw (President), Peter Jones (Chairman), Louise Wilkinson, and Patrick Shields, Gloucestershire Bridge Association President. We were particularly happy to welcome Patrick, an English and Welsh international, and member of the board of the English Bridge Union, who plays at Cheltenham and who has always supported smaller clubs in the County.
The afternoon was a happy occasion, with two hours’ bridge, followed by a hearty afternoon tea, drinks, ‘short’ speeches, a chance to see many old photographs and a commemorative gift for each member.
If you have been playing rubber bridge with friends at home, why not have a go at Duplicate Bridge? The transition is quite easy and if you would like some guidance on the slight differences, such as using bidding boxes, we can help on a personal level in a ‘home’ environment. We pay £10 per year membership, with £3.00 per week table money, including light refreshments. Partners can be arranged.
If you are interested in joining the club, please have a look at our website, bridgewebs. com/tewkesbury, or contact our secretary at tewkesburybridgeclub@ outlook.com.
■ Hugh Wilkinson, Rosiah Gates (our longest-serving member), Ann Bruckshaw (President), Peter Jones (Chairman), Louise Wilkinson, and Patrick Shields, Gloucestershire Bridge Association President
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OUT AND ABOUT with Jack B. Walker
Continued for page 29
PRESCOTT HILL
CLIMB - 2nd/3rd AugVintage Prescott; 10thSteeleford Hill Climb; 16th - Mini at Prescott; 17th Retro Rides Gathering. Prescott, Gotherington GL52 9RD
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
VINTAGE & COUNTRY
EXTRAVAGANZA - 1st3rd August. At South Cerney Airfield, near Cirencester, GL7 5QD. gloucestershirevintage extravaganza.co.uk
FREE CHILDRENS
CRAFTS AT THE BLACK BEAR - August 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th10.30am-4.00pm. A different craft each week - everybody is welcome. Suitable for all ages and abilities. The Black Bear, High Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5BJ.
THE MALVERNS CLASSIC MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL - Bank Holiday Weekend, 21st-25th August. Eastnor Deer Park, Ledbury HR8 1EN.
GOOD VIBES ONLY DAY FESTIVALSaturday 30th August, 1pm to 11pm, at Clavell & Hind Brewery & Tap Room, Elmstone Business Park, GL51 9SY. With David Rodigan, Ray Keith, Navigator MC and Kiko Bun DJ Set. See facebook and Instagram @good vibesonlycheltenham or skiddle.com
MORETON SHOWSaturday 6th September. The UK’s largest one day agricultural event and showcase of rural life. Arena attractions and events, trade stands, livestock show, static displays, children’s activities, food and drink etc. A great family day out. Details/tickets from moretonshow.co.uk
BROADWAY HORTICULTURAL SHOW - Saturday 13th September. Locally grown plants, fruits and vegetables, plus craft and trades stalls and entertainment in the heart of the Cotswold village of Broadway. www.broadwayhcs.co.uk
WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOVAL SCENE by Cate Cody
TEWKESBURY GOES WILD - many thanks to all who hosted events for this year's Tewkesbury Goes Wild. We have been enjoying some really super sessions, please send in your feedback and any photos you’re happy to share.
DAYTIME DANCESwith Cate and George. Please note there won't be a dance in August. The next Daytime Dance date is Fri 5th September at The Watson Hall, Barton Street, 1-4pm. All are welcome - dancers and spectators.
THE JOHN MOORE MUSEUM - Day - Sat 16th Aug July, drop in 10am to 4pm, £1 per person. Have an epic all-day clash, or perhaps just a quick game or two as you are passing by. A fun and sociable day of board games of different difficulties and durations. Bring games along if you like. Tea and coffee available. Old Baptist Chapel, Old Baptist Chapel Court, Off of
Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5RZ. Free wellness walks will begin again in September.
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Held monthly in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm, next session will be on Saturday 16th August. 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.
TEWKESBURY FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - Free presentation at the Library, “Mangrovesthe forgotten tropical forests.” Tues 19th Aug, Doors 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start.
TEWKESBURY NATURE RESERVEFree Summer Events: Check the website or social media for links to the Eventbrite page tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk/upcomingevents/ Sessions
include Art in Nature, Marvellous Mammals, Beautiful Butterflies, Brilliant Beetles, Dragon flies and Damselflies, Wonderful Wetlands and River Rangers.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
RECYCLES - For information and useful tips on recycling,visit www.gloucestershirerecycles.com
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
TEWKESBURY MUSEUM - at 64 Barton Street is managed entirely by volunteers. They are currently looking for someone warm and welcoming to
meet and greet visitors at reception. This would be an ideal role for someone recently retired, or perhaps you have moved into the area and wish to maintain your people skills and widen your social circle. Reception is on the ground floor and reasonably accessible. The museum is open from 11am until 3pm on Saturdays. Do come along to see if we are right for you or contact info@tewkesburymuseum.org
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GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - For information and useful tips visit www.gloucestershirerecycles.com
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