70s STREET PARTY TO MARK ROSES’
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, The Roses Theatre is bringing the party to the streets with Bloomin’ 50 Fest – a lively, 70s-inspired evening of music, food, and community spirit.
Taking place on Sun Street on Friday 16th May, from 6.00pm until 10.30pm, this special event kicks off Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend, launching three days of activity and celebration across the town centre and riverside area.
Live performances from [Band Name 1], Kickback and XL5 will fill the street with energy, ending the night with a 70s disco featuring modern takes on classic tracks. Expect everything from funk and
soul to rock, pop, hip hop and reggae.
Festival-goers can enjoy local food vendors, The Roses’ famous pizzas and a fully stocked outdoor bar
There will also be a 70s fancy dress competition (with prizes), and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe – bring your own chair.
Entry is free, making this the perfect opportunity to join in the fun and celebrate The Roses’ 50th anniversary.
Continued on Page 3
The Roses Theatre as it looks in 2025
Over 200 vintage vehicles to go under the hammer - see page 12 for the full story
Hagstone
by Sinead Gleeson Paperback £9.99
After "Clear" based on a Scottish Island this month another novel located on an island!
This one well off the coast of Ireland where there is a secluded community of women living. They call themselves the Inions - and on this island most of the community periodically hear strange noises, an unexplained eerie phenomenon which causes all women to have their menstrual cycle.
It is against this background that Nell, an artist, island born and bred, struggles to make a living to support herself and her art; helped by acting as a tourist guide to summer visitors. She is a feminist, environmentalist, beachcomber and swimmer who grows as much of her own food as she can but seemingly can afford a regular supply of gin or wine!
She is invited to help the Inion community to celebrate their 30th Anniversary on the island by creating a commemorative journal and spends much of the autumn out at Rathglas, the old convent at the end of the island where the Inions exist in seclusion. Her presence sometimes not welcomed by some of the women. Others, particularly one called Muireann, are more receptive. She and Nell becoming close friends.
The Inion community and Rathglas are dominated by Maman, who comes across as a complex not friendly character and one who Nell does not click with, but the chance of out of season income, though a fee never seemed to be agreed, is sufficient to make her
endure the stark studio they provide and Maman's cold offhand manipulative behaviour.
Nell encounters Cleary, whilst swimming on a beach. He has recently returned to the island, where his uncle lives and they develop a relationship which provides the alternative plot to the novel's main themes. This is the Inions, their way of life, beliefs and isolation and Nell's art, where the author goes into some detail and in an afterword bibliographs her inspiration for some of Nell's projects.
The themes are unusual; the eerie phenomena, the Inions, most met only in passing, all make for an interesting read. Nell is the heart of the story, whilst the island's other inhabitants and visitors filter through the pages; there is even a washed up whale; all providing a diversion to the author's main theme which is illuminated in places with descriptive phrases that catch the reader's eye. Do not be put off by the cover! This hardly reflects the book,
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
ROSES FIFTIETH
Continued from the front page
As part of the evening, donation buckets will be available for those who wish to support The Roses as a registered charity, helping to ensure the theatre continues to serve the community for years to come.
The event is being made possible thanks to the support of volunteers and local businesses, who have generously provided in-kind support and reduced fees, helping to bring this celebration to life.
Jessica Brewster, Director of The Roses, said: “Bloomin’ 50 Fest is all about celebrating
the past, present and future of The Roses.
“We’ve been part of this community for 50 years, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a big, joyful street party in the heart of Tewkesbury?
We are so grateful to the volunteers and businesses who have helped make this event possible.”
As the opening event of Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend, Bloomin’ 50 Fest brings people together for a night of nostalgia, local pride and shared celebration.
For more information, visit rosestheatre.org
Leading stores announced for Designer Outlet Centre
Global fashion brand BOSS leads a line up of British and international fashion, lifestyle, athleisure, homewares and beauty brands preparing to open at the Cotswolds Designer Outlet Centre.
Others include Levi’s, Ben Sherman, French Connection, Timberland, Adidas, Radley, Puma, ProCook, Skechers, The Perfume Shop and Under Armour, with more to be announced soon.
Restaurants getting ready to cater for visitors are Wagamama, Zizzi, Five Guys and 200 Degrees - with Caffe Nero and Pret a Manger signed up too.
The outlet centre, near M5 junction 9 at Tewkesbury, is scheduled to open inJuly.
SHOWBOROUGH SHOWCASE
The Affordable Garden Art Exhibition returns to Showborough House, Twyning, this month. The event showcases sculpture in all media and styles by over 80 emerging and established British artists, many from the local area. About 200 wotks will be on display - all of which are for sale. The exhibition is open Thursdays-Sundays 10.30am-4.00pm from May 1st until 15th June. Further details from www.showborough.com
The Roses Theatre in the 70s
Stand up paddle boarding for all ages and abilities Individuals and groups, all abilities
Instruction sessions daily, Boat hire, Dragon & Swan Pedal Boats 2 & 3 seat sit on top Kayaks, Catamaran Team Canoes Sailing Boats and Windsurfers
Book online at www.croftfarmwaterpark.com Email tom@croftfarmleisure.co.uk or call 01684 772321 (ext. 2) to book tuition
Bredons Hardwicke, Tewkesbury GL20 7EE 01684 772321 tom@croftfarmleisure.co.uk www.croftfarmwaterpark.com
Get prepped for summer with expert waxing services from Zoe Collins-Tester, the friendly face behind Zoe’s Beauty (@zoesbeauty30) at the brand-new Zeta Hair & Beauty Salon in Tewkesbury. Located at Unit 7, Gannaway Lane, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, Zoe offers professional waxing treatments in a relaxed and welcoming environment, helping you feel your absolute best.
From brows to bikini and everything in between, Zoe delivers high-quality waxing with minimal discomfort and smooth results that last. With a focus on hygiene, precision, and client care, Zoe’s treatments are ideal whether you’re a waxing regular or booking for the first time. And here’s the best part — Zoe is offering a huge 20% OFF all wax-
ing services throughout May! It’s the perfect time to treat yourself to silkysmooth skin and save while doing it. Zoe brings warmth, experience, and genuine care to every appointment. Her goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident in your skin, all while delivering top-notch results. She’s already building a strong reputation in Tewkesbury for
her attention to detail and friendly service.
To book your appointment, contact Zoe directly via Instagram @ zoesbeauty30 or reach out by phone/text at 07368 475992.
Visit Zeta Hair & Beauty today and discover your new go-to for all things beauty in Tewkesbury.
Don’t miss your chance to grab this amazing May offer!
FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR BIGGEST EVER FESTIVAL
This month’s Cotswold Festival of Steam at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway looks set to be the biggest ever event of its kind held over the restored 14 mile line.
There will be a spectacular line-up of visiting locomotives as well as the GWSR’s own fleet, operating over the weekend of 24th-26th May.
Toddington Standard Locomotive Ltd (TSLL) owned 76077 will be paying a flying visit from its overhaul base at Loughborough LMS during the steam gala.
This is a golden opportunity to see the chassis of the locomotive which is nearing completion.
Among the other engines making an appearance is the 129 year-old Victorian beauty ‘O1’ class 0-6-0 steam locomotive no. 65 which
LOCAL HISTORY - 14 JUNE at 7.30pm ASHCHURCH TO MALVERN BY RAIL
Ripple railway station was on the Midland Railway between Great Malvern and Evesham. It opened on 16 May 1864 and was sadly closed on 14 August 1961.
In our first local history evening we are delighted to host Ian Boskett for a talk at slideshow on the Ashchurch to Malvern railway (via Twyning-Ripple-Upton).
Ripple Parish Hall. Tickets £10 (including buffet) email Alan Spark coldicot@gmail.com
was built for the South Eastern Railway. The Cotswold Festival of Steam, 24-26 May, will be opening its loco shed and carriage and wagon works to the public. There will also be a display of 100 ‘O’ gauge models at Winchcombe illustrating the development of railway locomotives over 200 years and at Toddington, several full-size and miniature tractions engines will be in steam.
On the Bank Holiday Monday 26 May up to three young people aged up to 15 can travel free with an adult paying the full entrance free. For tickets see the website www.gwsr.com
TSLL’s 76077
0-6-0 No. 65
welcome awaits at Badham Pharmacy, Priors Park
Just
Tewkesbury Bellringers Celebrate Double
Victory Ahead of VE Day 80th Anniversary
Keep your ears open this Bank Holiday Monday, 5th May, as the sound of bells will ring out across Tewkesbury and surrounding villages in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Ahead of this significant occasion, Tewkesbury Bellringers have reason to celebrate. On April 5th, local teams took part in two county-wide competitions, competing against fellow bellringers from across Gloucestershire, and came out on top in both.
A team of six from Tewkesbury Abbey won the Croome Trophy at Churchdown, while a team of eight claimed victory in the Penn Trophy at Barnwood. These competitions are judged on the precision and evenness of the ringing—known as “striking”—and the Abbey bands impressed on both fronts.
Notably, this marks a repeat triumph for the Abbey team, who also won the Croome Trophy in 2024 and achieved a double win in 2019.
If you’re interested in learning more about bellringing or would like to get involved, you can contact sheilataylorz@ yahoo.co.uk for further information.
EASTNOR CHILLI FEST
Sunday 4th & Monday 5th May 2025
Chilli marketplace, Cookery demos, Live entertainment, Hot, tasty food & drink, Children’s cookery school, The infamous chilli eating competition, plus castle, lake, arboretum, maze and playgrounds. Castle & grounds admission: Adult £15.50 | Child (3-15yrs) £9.50 | Family (2a+3c) £45.00 | Family (1a+3c) £30.00
Limited online tickets only eastnorcastle.com
■ Croome Trophy winners
■ Penn Trophy winners
Tewkesbury Boat Parade
SUNDAY 18TH MAY 2025
We need your boat to take part in the “Grand Finale” Boat Parade. Whether its unpowered, powered, narrow, wide, new, classic all are welcome to take part in our Boat Parade on Sunday 18th May. Entry is FREE!
Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend has raised over £20,000 for local charities. Every penny given goes directly to those charities we support. We do not take out any expenses. Our main charities are Macmillan Cancer and the Maritime Volunteer Service. For 2025 we will again be supporting as many local charities as possible.
The parade is restricted to a maximum of thirty boats due to the limited space that is available. All boats taking part will be awarded a “brass” plaque as a thank you. I am also pleased that our new Town Mayor has agreed to “take the salute” as part of his first duties. In addition a small prize and certificate will be awarded to the best dressed boat or crew. This will be judged by the new Tewkesbury Town Mayor.
The theme is “the 70s”, so please decorate your boat and/or crew to match. However, this is not essential, wheat we need if you to join us and be part of putting on
a brilliant show for the town.
The assembly point is adjacent to the visitors pontoon at Tewkesbury Marina at 11.45am. The parade will start at 12.00pm, heading down through King John Bridge, past Avon Lock and to the end of navigation at Abbey Mill before we turn and return to the
Marina.
As usual the Maritime Volunteer Service (MVS) will lead the parade and ensure safe passage for all craft.
For further information, please contact me be emailing hope29@ talktalk.net
Paul Cronin
TBW Riverside Organiser
Top marks for Croft Farm Water Park
A letter of appreciation for a fun filled Hen Party was sent to the staff of Croft Farm Water Park, who would like to share it with our readers.
“ Hi. Just to say we had the most fantastic time at the weekend celebrating my best friends hen do.
“She really loves paddle boarding and almost all the other places we looked at, before we found you, either didn't accept groups of hens or the watersports season had not yet began.
“Well we had the best time doing our arts and crafts in the function room on the friday and having a watersports session on the Saturday morning.
“Blue Oak and Scarlett Oak lodges were gorgeous. Beautifully designed and decorated. The hot tub was a real treat.
“The staff at the Clubhouse were fabulous when we had drinks at the bar on the Friday night and breakfast in the conservatory area on the Sunday morning. Very friendly and accommodating.
“Big shout out to Tom who replied to about 100 emails from me about watersports and the lovely James who showed us the function room and welcomed us
at the watersports reception.
“We all loved our watersports instructor (I think her name was Bea or maybe Amber?). The paddle boarding and kayaking were great and the pedalos were a nice little addition for the bride to be.
“The reception staff were really great too firstly letting us collect lodge keys slightly earlier, giving me a parking refund when our 5th driver could no longer make it and letting our beautician in for free. Also giving me the option to store some arts and crafts boxes before my lift arrived.
“Over all staff were friendly, accommodating and went above and beyond to make sure we had a good experience. The bride had the most amazing time and was overwhelmed with the whole weekend.
“I'll definitely be back to enjoy more of your onsite facilities and watersports now I know you exist only 40 minutes away.”
Thanks all, Lucy T
Croft Farm Water Park is at Bredon's Hardwick, Tewkesbury GL20 7EE. For further information see their website www. croftfarmwaterpark.com
Croft Farm Water Park
Special Offers This Month
We have a new massage therapist joining us this month starting on Wednesday 7th May.
‘Hi I’m Sophie, I have 4 years experience in the Massage and Beauty industry and I specialise in a range of therapies including Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Indian Head Massage and Pregnancy Massage. I can also provide facials, and Gel Manicures and Pedicures. I will soon be completing further learning in Hot Stone Massage and Reflexology which I can’t wait to add to my skill set. These treatments will be available from the beginning of June.
I have spent the last few years building up my own business learning skills that really benefit a wide range of clients from relaxing Swedish massage to Deep Tissue for sports injuries and everyday aches and pains. I love seeing the difference these therapies make to my clients whether it’s for relaxation or providing relief from pain.
I’m really excited to join the Body2Soul team and to continue my journey in a salon environment where I’m looking forward to meeting new clients.’
Sophie will be working Tuesdays every other week, Wednesday evenings every other week and one Saturday a month. Her dates in May will be: Wednesday 7th May: 4pm - 8pm, Tuesday 10th May: 10am - 8pm, Saturday 17th May: 10am - 2pm, Wednesday 21st May: 4pm - 8pm, Tuesday 27th May: 10am - 8pm
Throughout May we will be offering any New Clients who book in for a 1 hour massage treatment a free 15 minute scalp massage. Please quote this offer when booking.
We look forward to you meeting Sophie at our salon.
We are very pleased to announce that plans are in place for Tewkesbury Big Weekend 2025!! Friday 16th, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May to be exact! This year we are helping The Roses celebrate 50 years! So, the theme for the whole weekend is ‘The 70’s’. There is going to be a street party (with entertainment) in Sun Street on Friday 16th May from 6pm –10.30pm, don’t forget to bring a chair!
Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend
We continue to hold true to our ethos of bringing the Town and river together for the benefit of all. Where possible we offer free or good value family entertainment, and it promises to be a great weekend. The theme for our parade is ‘The 70’s’ leaving Sun Street on Saturday 17th May at 3.30 and will make its way down
the High Street and finish at the Vineyards. At the Vineyards on Saturday Cheltenham Animal Shelter will host our very popular Dog Show, registration is at 11am, together with lots of stalls. The Town Hall and Town Hall Gardens will also be open and have lots of stalls. At the Watson Hall from 10am – 2pm there will be ‘Let’s Play Trains’
Shaun Taylor –Approved Buyer
open for all ages and free entry!!!
There is plenty of activity on the river on both days near to Healings Mill plus children’s entertainment, displays and stalls. On Saturday at 10.45 there will be the Official Riverside opening at the TBW stall with dignitaries arriving by boat escorted by the Maritime Volunteer Service. From
11.00am through until 9.00pm we have a fine line up of local talent on our riverside stage. We have a mobile bar and also refreshments on site.
On Sunday we have a boat parade which leaves near to Tewkesbury Marina at midday and will go along the Mill Avon to Abbey Mill and to finish in the afternoon is our very popular boat races,
still time to enter a team, contact us via our website. We hope that you are able to join us for what looks to be a very enjoyable weekend.
Sunday 18th May will see the return of our hugely successful ‘Picnic in the Park’ at The Victoria Gardens (opens 12.30) with afternoon teas and live entertainment. For further information please contact Carol Crilly carolcrilly@ btinternet.com Tel 01684 772666.
ONCE IN A LIFETIME CAR AUCTION
Tewkesbury Auctioneer, Finley Hutchings, of F.M.Hutchings commercial auctions will be hosting what could be described as the Sale of the Century. A collection of around 200 vintage, and old cars and vehicles will sold by Auction on Saturday 28th June on a farm near Ross on Wye.
Most of the vehicles have been kept in barns, and some of them have cherished registrations, which will be sought after by collectors and restorers.
The vehicles were acquired by the owner to create a museum, but they have now decided to sell the collection.
For Sale, too, are agricultural machines, enamel signs and automobilia.
To see photos of the full collection, visit Tewkesbury Auctions Facebook page
CELEBRATING ELGAR
The annual festival celebrating the life and compositions of Sir Edward Elgar will be held from 24th May - 1st June.
A variety of musical events will celebrate his great music making, with choral music in Worcester Cathedral and orchestral performances. For details see elgarfestival.org
Folk stars head for Upton
Some of the leading lights of the British traditional music scene will be heading for Upton-upon-Severn this month, to perform at the riverside town’s annual folk festival.
Over the weekend of May 2nd-5th, Upton will come alive with music, dance, poems, yarns, rhymes and workshops in a variety of venues and the streets of the town.
The vibrant, friendly festival attracts some of the finest artists in the genre, as well as performers from folk clubs.
Headliners this year include Nancy Kerr and James Fagan, Granny’s Attic, Tim Van Eyken, Sherburn, Bartley, Sanders and Banter.
Morris dance sides will perform in the streets each day of the festival, and there will be a procession on the Sunday.
There will be stalls by the water front, song sessions, a musical meander and even an
acoustic talent competition. The festival is centred around the centre of the town on the west bank of the river. Day visitors should use the public car parks (pay and display). For further information and the full programme, visit the website uptonfolk.org
Nancy Kerr
Some of the classic vehicles awaiting the auction
“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
The LOWER LODE Inn
Enjoy early Summer with good food and drink on the banks of the river Severn
Come and enjoy our famous Sunday Carvery for just £14, a great treat for all the family.
■ Locally sourced traditional pub fayre
■ Riverside Beer Garden
■ Camping available for away days
Katakanu Boat Races: Are you up for the new challenge?
We are looking for Teams of up to FIVE people to take part in our Katakanu Boat sprint race as part of Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend.
The entry fee per boat is £25, just £5 per person which should be raised as sponsorship.
year the “Undrunken Sailors”.
Bridge on the River Avon, Tewkesbury.
There is also a shield for the “Best dressed Team” with the theme “The 70s”
Planning an event this year?
Our beautiful riverside function hall is the ideal venue for your very special occasion.
We are fully licensed with full bar and live music facility. We have dates available for small affordable Weddings on some Saturdays and midweek.
Forthampton GL19 4RE 01684 293224
Only ten minutes walk from Tewkesbury Town Centre. By road from Tewkesbury take the A438 to Ledbury and turn off to Forthampton. At the duck pond turn left and follow the road to the end.
We provide the boat, safety equipment and an experienced Helmsman.
We need Clubs, Pubs, Good Friends, Societies, and anyone who can put together a Team. You do not need to have any previous experience.
After the initial £25 entry fee we will split the remaining sponsorship raised 50/50 between the TBW nominated charities and the Roses Theatre.
There are three cups for the winners, one for raising the most money for charity, one for the fastest time and one for the Champion of Champions race. This will be the winners of 2025 against the winners of the last
Entries are now open for the races which take part on Sunday 18th May. The course is a sprint [or leisurely cruise] from King John Bridge to Healings Mill
Please note that the closing date for the races is Sunday 11th May. Come and join in the fun and help raise funds for our charities.
More details from: Paul Cronin TBW Riverside Organiser hope29@talktalk.net
TEWKESBURY FLOWER CLUB
Our next meeting is on Tuesday 13th May at Bushley Village Hall, GL20 6HT.
Doors open at 1.30 and the demonstration starts at 2.00. No experience is necessary, just a relaxing afternoon watching an expert arrange beautiful flowers. Entrance for visitors is £6 payable on the door. Come and join us - we are very friendly!
AND SKODA SPECIALIST
• 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.
More Than Just Repairs: Twyning Men’s Shed Builds Skills, Friendship, and Community
Twyning Men’s Shed has many facets to it and provides many benefits to its members. There is of course also the major benefit for parishioners to get things repaired, refurbished or serviced.
We have been challenged by many items over the last 3 years and only refused a couple of hopeless cases! We have re-upholstered chairs, mended mowers, cleaned clocks, made memorial plaques, rebuilt antiques and cherished pieces of furniture, fixed broken chairs and benches and all manner of garden furniture. But that’s only the beginning.
Nearly all members have learnt a new skill in the Shed and are turning their hand to things they didn’t think they could do, so every day is a learning day!
Most members are post-retirement and 50+. Most are outwardly cheerful happy people who enjoy the camaraderie and banter that goes on in the workshop. A few are lonely, miss the office or worktime chat and discipline. For many the Thursday trip to supermarket isn’t enough to replace the 40+ years they were at work, away from their family, with a very different crowd of people and different dynamics to home.
Some members have had cancer, MS or other
illnesses, or are being treated, some are bereaved and need to be busy to compensate for their loss. Some can be a little bewildered and a bit lost at times. Some are inwardly very sad and bruised people.
But they are all Shedders, and we look out for each other, support each other, go out socially for the odd curry and beer and enjoy the company and the laughter.
Alongside this we also have a Sister Shed. These ladies meet separately from the men, although there is always one or two men around for advice and training on the
equipment. They don’t knit and natter, they make things like planters, refurbish tables and chairs, do some carpentry sanding and painting – much like the men do. And they love it! We have a few places available, so if anyone would like to come and see us, then we will show you round, make a cuppa and chat over what you can bring to the Shed and what we can bring for you. So, call Bill O’Dell 07879 256016, ladies and gentlemen, and bring a little extra fun into your life!
Bill O’Dell
Meetings held on the 2nd Monday morning of each month in the Baptist Hall, Station Rd, Tewkesbury GL20 5DR
UPCOMING SPEAKER VISITS Monday 12th May 2025
War Graves Tour Tewkesbury
SATURDAY 10TH MAY 2025
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) will be repeating the popular ‘War Graves Tour’ to Tewkesbury - offering you a free guided tour at Tewkesbury Borough Cemetery on Saturday May 10th at 11 am.
Discover the remarkable stories of the two-dozen men and women of the British and Commonwealth forces who died in the First and Second World Wars, and after, and who are buried within our community.
Your guide will be local resident Sam Eedle, who is a volunteer for the
MAY EVENTS In Broadway
■ BROADWAY VILLAGE FETE / MAY DAY CELEBRATION
Broadway Parish Council is delighted to announce the return of the Broadway Village Fete/ May Day Celebration on the Main Green. You are invited to come along and support Broadway based groups and charities, whilst enjoying a variety of local entertainment. ‘For the Village, By the Village’..
Date and Time: Saturday, May 10, 2025
11:00 AM 3:00 PM
Location: The Green
■ HENTONY GIN FESTIVAL AT THE LIFFORD HALL, BROADWAY
An evening of gin-tastic fun at the Lifford Hall. Get ready to sip on delicious gins from various distilleries, enjoy live music, and indulge in tasty food offerings. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover new favourite gins and mingle with fellow gin lovers.
Date and Time: Saturday, May 17, 2025 6:00 PM 9:00 PM
Location: Lifford Hall, Broadway
■ THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN’S MOTORCYCLE RIDE
Classic and vintage style motorcycles riding to raise funds & awareness for men’s mental health & prostate cancer research. Riding up to the top of the village and back down to park on the gravel around the war memorial from about 12 noon ‘ish’. Around the world, the global Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride community will come together and celebrate in trademark dapper fashion.
Pre-register to join in at www.gentlemansride. com Sponsored by Triumph
Date and Time: Sunday, May 18, 2025 11:45 AM 12:45 PM
Location: The Green
CWGC.
BOOKING - Click on the CWGC eventbrite link on the home page of Tewkesbury Historical Society website www. tewkesburyhistory.org
(top right of screen if viewing on your laptop, if using a smartfone, just scroll down a bit).
PARKING - You can park at the Leisure Centre.
MEET UP - 11 am sharp at the Cholera Memorial, easily visible from the Cemetery gates.
TOILETS - Nearest toilets on Gloucester Road Car Park.
DAYTIME DANCE -
with Cate and George; The next Daytime Dance date will be on Fri 2nd May at The Watson Hall, Barton Street, Tewkesbury from 1pm until 4pm.
TEWKESBURY
FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - The Big CleanLitter picking, weeding and sweeping the alleys of Tewkesbury. Meet at Eagles Alley (behind the old Halfords), Sun day
tewkesbury@activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk
Unit 4, Delta Drive, Tewkesbury GL20 8HB Tel: 01684 216633
Showroom open: 7.30am-5pm Mon-Fri, 8am-12pm Sat
11th May, 2-5pm.
FoE will also be part of Tewkesbury Big Weekend, 17th18th May, where they will have a stall in the Town Hall garden.
STONEHILLS
COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
At 5 years old - prising the rhinestones out of Mum's costume jewellery.
Years later, as a fully qualified Geologist and Gemmologist, Helen Plumb (Just Gems in Winchcombe) buys most of her stock from trusted foreign geologists she knows, or direct from the mines, sending her son to the places that don't welcome women.
She was very welcome at our WI Newtown
She warned that cheap stones are often manmade, and worthless as investments; that jade is now heavily overpriced since the Chinese have become rich enough to buy it back; and that colour is vital to value, as the criteria for judging a gemstone are beauty, durability and rarity. (Then size.)
Imperfections reduce
Now introducing a range of
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.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
RECYCLES - For information and useful tips on recycling,visit www.gloucestershirerecycles.com
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Held monthly in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm, next session Saturday 17th May.
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.
GDASSGLOUCESTERSHIRE DOMESTIC ABUSE
WIN (OR LOSE?) IN THE WORLD OF GEMS
the value, so “no inclusions but cheap” = fake. Sapphires can be almost any colour - and the rarest are the peach-pink - always snaffled by the Indians at source. Dark/navy sapphires are cheaper than bright blue ones and our late Queen Elizabeth II had the very best.
Untrained and inexperienced "jewellers" are unable to tell the difference between fake and natural gems, and often resort to bluster and sometimes deception, marking up values on cheap stones to hoodwink the public.
Durability is primarily hardness, which ranges from (1) talc to (10) diamond. This decides what gem is suitable for what type of jewellery; eg Don't put a softish tanzanite into an engagement ring - which will get far too much wear. Or use an amethyst for regular use - they fade when exposed to bright sunlight over long periods.
SUPPORT SERVICEFor advice please contact the helpdesk on 01452 726570 or email support@gdass. org.uk The website www.gdass.org.uk also has information and resources if you are concerned that you or someone you know may be a victim of domestic abuse
Rarity - only the cognoscenti will know. And thanks to the Romans, who prized their pearls from molluscs, and needed a weight standard, a 100 carat gem is the weight of 100 carob seeds. Who knew! And if you are really rich - or far too enamoured - or just showing off - beware the vulgarity of a huge white diamond in anything other than head or neckwear. Liz Taylor's massive ring? Even Princess Margaret sneered - until she borrowed it ... WI Newtown (WIN) welcomes you - just come to Wheatpieces Community Centre on the second Wednesday of the month, or contact Julie on 01684 301267 or send an email to PullenJ53@sky.com
Tewkesbury’s Big Clean
It’s a very bright Springtime in Tewkesbury. Lots of events coming up over the next six months, especially The Big Weekend on 17th/18th May, then the Medieval Festival and Tewkesbury Live in July.
Lots of visitors too all wanting to explore and enjoy our historic town. It would be nice to say that Tewkesbury is looking its best – nice but maybe not true.
To help out, why not join Tewkesbury Friends of the Earth, Project Alleycat, The Guides, Boys Brigade and lots of ordinary folks.
A week before the Big Weekend the organisers of the Big Clean want to sweep, litter pick and weed as much of the town centre as possible.
The date set is Sunday 11th May 2pm5pm, meeting at Eagles Alley (off High St, the back of the former Halfords). Individuals can just come along on the day. Youth groups are very welcome, but please email in advance so suit-
able sites can be allocated.
Sacks and some litter picks, gloves and hi Viz vests will be available, but if possible please bring your own, together with brooms, dustpans and weeding tools
Those who can’t make that time, why not “Sweep From Home”?
Take a brush or litter pick and clean the street where you live. Or a local grot spot. Together the people of Tewkesbury CAN make a difference. For more information please email Tewkesburybigclean@ gmail.com or check out Facebook: Tewkesbury Friends of the Earth.
Helen Plumb
FOCUS ON WINCHCOMBE - with Jack B. Walker
New season underway at Isbourne Arts
Winchcombe, within the Borough of Tewkesbury, has undergone something of a transformation in
writes Jack B. Walker.
With its chic shops, cafés and hostelries the ancient Mercian Borough is a firm favourite with tourists in the Cotswolds, but it also has a vibrant cultural scene - with its new Arts Centre up and running in the heart of the town.
Isbourne Arts occupies a former Methodist Church in Winchcombe High Street, saved for community use by a group of local residents.
It provides an inviting multi-purpose space for live performance including music, drama, dance
and spoken word, for family entertainment and for a wide range of community events.
Run by a volunteerled charity, the building has been transformed into a thriving arts and community hub for Winchcombe. It’s a safe and welcoming indoor space for people of all ages to relax and engage in creative activities.
Isbourne Arts provides facilities for artisan markets, retail space for local artists, makers and food producers too.
This spring there is an
live music programme, starting on Friday 2nd May with Octavo: an eight-part a cappella vocal group delivering a an eclectic mix of music from Byrd through to the Beatles.
On Friday 9th May the stage is set for Year of the Dog: a brass-
house-soul powerhouse, blending magnetic energy with a soulful edge to create a live experience that moves both bodies and hearts.
Steve Tilston - one of Britain’s most celebrated song-smiths - will give an intimate performance on Friday 17th May.
With his distinctive style drawing from folk, blues, jazz and classical, Steve is highly regarded in the folk and contemporary music circles; his words, arrangements and subtle, superb guitar playing could be no one else.
For more information or to buy tickets, check out the centre’s website isbournearts.org
Winchcombe’s award-winning festival returns, with a programme of walks exploring the local area, flora, fauna and history of the Cotswolds. With several long distance paths and shorter routes converging in the town, its an ideal location for such an event. The full programme can be found online at the website winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com
Isbourne Arts
POND FISH
We stock good ranges of food, water treatments, pumps, fountains and fish medicines for a healthy and well balanced pond
Animals Only, Unit B, The Northway Centre Northway Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8TW 01684 273050
www.animalsonly.co.uk plenty of free parking
GARDENING MONTHLY - with Tim Hoskins
Moving with the times
I’m moving house, from a suburban semi, to a listed building in a conservation area, writes Tim Hoskins.
With the move comes the exciting possibility of being the custodian of a new garden spaceespecially because it's growing conditions are so different to my current garden.
But what do I do with my beloved plants from my shady old garden, the ones that have been with me through seasons, storms, and life events?
This question is more emotional than practical. Plants can be deeply sentimental - the rose given by a grandparent, the Primulas bought with pocket money, by my children, on countless Mothering Sundays, or the show-stealing Acer that provides a welcome distraction from the shed it hides.
It'll be hard to leave them behind in a plot that I’ve inherited and worked with for ten years.
However, a new garden is a chance to start afresh, to design something that fits this next chapter of our lives. The garden I’m inheriting has been someone else’s pride and joy for 20 years plus, so I won’t be rushing to change anything for a year or so.
I’m sure I’ll adapt it, but I also don’t want to erase someone else’s hard work. Those of us who toil on the land
have a funny connection to every inch we’ve ever worked and that needs to be respected.
I may take a few sentimental plants with me of course — ideally those that can tolerate more sun or be adapted (in pots or shady corners).
I’m more likely to take cuttings or divisions rather than uprooting whole plants, allowing me to bring the memories without the transplant shock or space issues.
My biggest challenge is that it’s not a good time of year to be lifting some plants, particularly trees and shrubs.
The herbaceous perennials should be ok, with plenty of roots left attached. The bulbs will have to be left for someone else to enjoy.
A garden is never just about the plants — it's about us in that space. I
won’t be leaving memories behind; I’ll be taking them with me and letting them evolve.
GARDENS OPEN IN MAY
A selection of gardens open this month on behalf of the National Gardens Scheme. More details on their website: ngs.org.uk
HIGHNAM COURT - Sun 4th May. Highnam, Gloucester, GL2 8DP. 11am-5pm. 40 acres of Victorian Landscape Gardens. Refreshments.
BROCKWORTH COURT - Wed 7th May. Court Road, Brockworth GL3 4QU. 2pm-5pm. Informal cottage style planting which beautifully complements a period manor house.
CHARINGWORTH COURT - Sat 17th & Sun 18th May. Broadway Road, Winchcombe GL54 5JN. 11am-5.30pm. 1,5 acres.
STANWAY FOUNTAIN & WATER GARDENSun 18th May. Stanway, GL54 5PQ. 2pm-5pm. 20 acres in formal 18th century setting.
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Tim Hoskins
Get Summer Ready with Jodie Haines at Zeta Hair &
Beauty, Tewkesbury
Looking to refresh your nails just in time for summer? Look no further than Jodie Haines, a fully qualified nail technician trading as J Beauty at the brandnew Zeta Hair & Beauty Salon in Tewkesbury. Based at Unit 7, Gannaway Lane, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, Jodie brings expert precision, creativity, and care to every set of nails she creates.
Jodie specialises in a range of high-quality nail treatments including gel nails, luxurious pedicures, BIAB (Builder in a Bottle), and BIAB extensions—perfect for those wanting long-lasting strength and a natural finish. With a true passion for her craft, Jodie is also known for her stand-out nail art, offering unique, custom designs tailored to your personal style or the latest trends.
Whether you’re prepping for a holiday, a special occasion, or just want to feel pampered and polished, Jodie’s attention to detail and welcoming personality make every appointment a treat. Her work speaks for itself— clean, stylish, and always Instagram-worthy. Ready to book your appointment? It’s easy! Head to the link in bio on Instagram at @zeta_ tewkesbury, or contact Jodie directly on 07743 721622.
Pop in and discover Tewkesbury’s NEW Hair & Beauty Salon—Zeta is your go-to destination
for feeling fabulous from head to toe!
Unfortunately, Walker’s four sons were not able to save the company – two had emigrated to South Africa. One served in the infamous Jameson Raid of 1895 which helped precipitate the Boer War, 1899-1902.
The surviving two had allegedly contrasting talents. The firm went out of business in 1924. (Despite the sites importance, I have only seen the one photograph used by the late Cliff Burd which features a funeral cortege of Sweets - which happily is still in business now.)
The land was bought
by estate agent George Hone who in 1927 opened his state-of-the art “Fat and Store-Cattle Market” which closed in 1967.
Some buildings were taken over by Hayward’s Agricultural Machinery –and the firm now thrives in the High Street.
We recently recalled the fire which forced Thomas Walker out of his Oldbury Road Factory in 1908, writes John Dixon. He then moved this premises to the other side of the road in Spring Gardens where he owned land, and the factory continued –despite its founder’s death in 1912, and then a World War when armaments rather than roundabouts were made.
The market was soon occupied by the muchloved Cascades Swimming Pool, built partly with funds collected by a weekly 5p (one shilling) house-to-house collections, until it was demolished.
That leaves an empty site, whose main benefit is to reveal the buildings of the 1860 steam powered North-East Terrace textile factory.
The swimming pool is now located next to the Borough Council Offices.
Historically, it has been a busy area: now devoted to much needed car parking.
John Dixon
Now: Holy Trinity Church Hall and a car park
Then: Hone’s 1917-1967 Cattle Market (Inset: the fire at Thomas Walker’s factory in 1908)
Then: Hayward’s Agricultural Machinery Depot in Oldbury Road, circa 1981
Cascades before demolition
Then: 1920s (C. Burd)
FRIDAY 2ndSUNDAY 5th MAY:
Upton Folk Festival. headliners include Granny’s Attic, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan,Tim Van Eyken, Banter and Sherburn Bartley Sanders. Upton-upon-Severn, WR8 0HW www.uptonfolk.org
FRI 2nd MAY: The Bookshop Band, Postlip Hall, Winchcombe, GL54 5AQ Postliphall.org.uk
SAT 3rd MAY: Angels of Darkness, The Watson Hall, Tewkesbury GL20 5PX tewkesbuytowncouncil. gov.uk/whatson
TEWKESBURY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Thursday 22nd May 2025
Annual General Meeting followed by John Moore’s Rogues presented by John Dixon
Tewkesbury Methodist Church, The Cross, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5PA at 7.45pm
For more details visit tewkesburyhistory.org
Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct Pub Quiz.
1: Born David John Moore Cornwell in 1931, which author’s best-selling books include The Spy Who Came In From The Cold and The Night Manager?
2: Which first class English
TUES 6th MAY: The Black Feathers, The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
WED 7th MAY: Dave Newton Trio with singer Penny Powell, Fox & Hounds, Church St, Bredon foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
WED 7th MAY: Open Mixed Folk Music Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW (Music starts 8pm)
THURS 8th MAY: Newton Faulkner, The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
FRI 9th MAY: Dire Streets, The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
county cricket teams plays its home matches at Chester-LeStreet?
3: Which artist is normally credited with inventing cubism?
4: Which territory reverted to Chinese rule in 1997 after being leased to Britain for 99 years?
5: Which animated movie fea-
tured Lightning McQueen and Chick Hicks?
6: What are Shiba Inu, Lhasa Apso, Komondo and Belgian Malinois?
SAT 10th MAY: The Haar, The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ themarkettheatre.com
SAT 17th MAY: Seven Drunken Nights (Dubliners tribute), The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 17th MAY: Kevin Brown, The Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 2ES worcestertheatres.co.uk
SAT 17th MAY: Steve Tilston, Isbourne Arts, High Street, Winchcombe GL54 5LJ isbournearts.org
WED 21st MAY: Open Celtic Folk Music Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW (Music starts 8pm)
FRI 23rd MAY: The Roving Crows, The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ themarkettheatre.com
SAT 24th MAY: Eric Bibb, The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
THURS 29th MAY: Talon: The Acoustic Collection (Eagles tribute show), The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
FRI 30th MAY: The Simon & Garfunkel Story (tribute show), The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
TUES 3rd JUNE: Dan Whitehouse, The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SUN 1st JUNE: Peggy Seeger in concert with Neill and Calum MacColl The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
WED 4th JUNE: Open Mixed Folk Music Session, Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW (Music starts 8pm) LIVE MUSIC To promote your event here, please use the contact form at www.tewkesburydirect.co.uk
Saturday 10th May In the Lessex Field near the Railway Inn at 6.00pm. Tickets £10 from the inn. Bring a picnic and a chair. Parking available
QUIZ NIGHT
Wednesday 14th May £10 per team of four. 7.30pm start. PIE NIGHT
Thursday 29th May
Cross House, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB www.crosshousetavern.pub
finest Indian Fusion Cuisine in Tewkesbury
Authentic Bangladeshi Food
ST NICHOLAS GEARS
UP FOR CHRISTIAN AID WEEK
St Nicholas Church, Ashchurch fundraisers are gearing up for a major charity appeal to support communities living in poverty across the world.
St Nicholas Ashchurch have organised a Coffee orning with a plant sale and cake sale as part of Christian Aid Week 2025 (11th-17th May). It will take place at Northway Community Hub in Lee Walk (GL20 8QG) between 10am and 12 noon. Tea, coffee, cake and plants will be available.
Guy Fancourt St Nicholas Christian Aid representative said: ‘Every year, during this appeal, people across Britain and Ireland have seven days to make a difference and raise funds for Christian Aid Week. We hope people will get behind our fundraising and support their global neighbours. Together, we can put the unstoppable power of hope into action, because a brighter, fairer future is possible.
‘We’re taking part in Christian Aid Week by organising a Coffee Morning at the Northway Hub between 10am and 12noon on Tuesday the 13th May because we wish to extend hope to those who are struggling across the world.
Money raised will enable Christian Aid and their trusted partners to support communities to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty on their own terms.
This year’s Christian Aid Week is focusing on Christian Aid’s work in Guatemala, Central America, where the climate crisis is causing the seasons to intensify and shift erratically.
As a result, farming communities have to battle devastating floods and intense heatwaves. Water sources are drying up and vital crops are failing, plunging farming families into hunger and poverty.
To get involved with Christian Aid Week, visit caweek.org - or to make a donation, scan the QR Code.
OUT AND ABOUT with Jack B. Walker
ARMOUR AND THE ABBEY: Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th May, 11am-4pm. Admission £5, accompanied children free. Living history and horses, Pageant Meadow (entrance via Gander Lane behind the Abbey). Monday 5th May, 11am-4pm. Activities in the Abbey. at 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Details from tewkesburymedieval festival.co.uk
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD WALKS: Sunday 4th May, 10.00am-12.00 noon. Meet at the Abbey Lawn Car Park in Gander Lane (GL20 5PG) for a guided walk around Tewkesbury Battlefield, lasting around two hours. Walks are free but donations to the Tewkesbury Battlefield Society are welcome. www.tewkesbury.org.uk
COTSWOLD
FARM PARK: Open every day from 9.30am to 5pm. Last entry 4.30pm. Guiting Power, GL54 5FL. Rare farm animals, attractions and activities to keep all ages entertained and amused. Guided Cotswold Dog Walks and entertainment for children during May. Buy tickets online at www.cotswoldfarmpark. co.uk
LOCAL NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES: Now open again for the season. Well worth visiting within easy reach of Tewkesbury are Croome Park (above), Snowshill Manor, Hidcote Manor Gardens and Chastleton House. Details and opening times from nationaltrust.org.uk
SUDELEY CASTLE AND GARDENS: Historic home and last resting place of Queen Katherine Parr near Winchcombe, GL54 5JD. May events include Giffords Circus (9th-19th May), Dig & Delve Days (28th-29th May) and Face Painting Fun (27th and 3th May). Open 10.00am-5.00pm. Get tickets and more information online at sudeleycastle.co.uk
EASTNOR CASTLE AND PARK: 4th & 5th May: Chilli Festival; 25th-26th May: Eastnor Steam & Vintage Show. Castle near Ledbury with delightful grounds, arboretum, woodland play area, playground,
knight’s maze and junior obstacle course. Tea room and ice cream parlour. Eastnor Deer Park has extensive walks and its own
Woodshed Café. Tickets and information are available from www. eastnorcastle.com
Continued on Back Page
WHICH? WINNERS
Local company LCM Roofing have proudly won the April Which? Trader of the Month award. After previously winning twice before, they have also been nominated to attend the prestigious London ceremony for the Which? Trader of the Year awards for the third year running. Fingers crossed their hard work, professionalism and customer dedication shine through.
Gloucestershire Nightstop: The Local Charity Keeping Young People Out of Homelessness
Imagine being 18, just finishing your A-Levels, excited about university- and suddenly having nowhere to sleep.
That was the reality for Mary (name changed), a bright young woman from Gloucestershire who found herself kicked out of home at one of the most important points in her life. With no other options, she began sofa-surfing with friends, unsure of what would come next.
Then she found Gloucestershire Nightstop.
Nightstop is a local charity that provides emergency accommodation for young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Instead of hostels or shelters, young people are offered a bed for the night in the spare room of a trained volunteer host.
These hosts provide more than just a place to sleep - they offer warmth, a hot meal, and a sense of safety.
Volunteer drivers also help transport young people to and from placements.
Mary was matched with a host within
days. She stayed in friendly, welcoming homes, took part in creative and supportive activities through Daystop, and was even picked up from work by kind hosts. With Nightstop’s support, she contacted her university and secured long-term accommodation. Today, she’s thriving.
Another young person shared, “... From the support workers who greet you at the door, to the volunteers who drive you, to the kind and considerate hosts. Nightstop truly is full of amazing people and I’ll never be able to express my gratitude enough...”
Right now, Nightstop urgently needs more
hosts and drivers to continue offering this lifeline.
You don’t need a big house or lots of time - just a spare room and a warm heart.
Hosts choose when they’re available, and Nightstop provides full training, 24/7 on-call support, and covers all expenses.
Whether you can
offer one night a month or just help spread the word, your support could be the reason a young person feels seen, safe, and supported instead of alone.
Find out more at gloucestershirenightstop.org. uk and click Get Involved to take your first step.
New sponsor and new kit for Bredon Cricket
We are pleased to announce our new kit sponsor for the new season. Pictured holding the new club shirt is Lee Parker (left) CEO of Grimnir LLC and our club President Derek Ebbage. Our first game was a friendly in April against Dumbleton 2nd X1, where we welcomed four new players to the first team. In May we have two Saturday home fixtures for the first team, against Lye & Rushwick at the beginning and Netherton at the end of the month. Whenever we have a home fixture the bar will always be open to serve refreshments. Check social media or our website for further details.
On Friday 16th May we commence our weekly All Stars/Dynamos training for children. Our ladies’ team will also be training, so if you fancy playing cricket then pop along. The Friday evenings throughout the summer at the cricket club have become a great social event for families.
Each week there will be a different pop-up food stall plus the bar will of course be open. The annual Tower Run up Bredon Hill on Sunday 25th May has so far attracted over 100 runners, however you still have time to register. Simply scan the QR code and follow the instructions.
Detail in the Decor
Do you have a special occasion coming up?
a shimmer wall and balloon decor for a hen party, or someone to provide a full party package, we provide it all!
Although Tewkesbury-based, we cover all of Gloucestershire and surrounding areas. To celebrate our launch,
Whether it’s a dreamy wedding, a vibrant birthday bash, or an elegant corporate affair, we are here to transform your event into a visual masterpiece. We specialise in creating bespoke event experiences through high-quality, detail-oriented decorations and are dedicated to taking the stress of party planning away so that you can relax and fully enjoy your event whilst trusting that we will take care of all the finer things.
What sets this new venture apart is in the name itself, an unwavering attention to detail. We believe it’s those extra touches that make moments memorable.
Whether you’re looking for a birthday balloon stack for your children to wake up to,
we’re offering 10% off any bookings between now and August by quoting ’Tewkesbury Di-
rect’ when ordering. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook, and get in touch to bring your next event to life, we’d love to hear from you!
over
including
in A2 & A4
Galvanised and Zinc
Our
counter is open to the
and public five days a
sales@allfasttewkesbury.co.uk
At the Berkeley Arms, Sharon Glass and Dave Robinson won the Tewkesbury & District Cribbage League Doubles in convincing style.
In their first round they swept aside last years Doubles Champions and in the Semi Final, they overcame an early lead in the vital fifth game to win with pegs to spare.
In the Final, they rose to the challenge by winning three straight games against the Champions of two years ago, who had endured some tough matches, especially in the semi final when they came back from being 2-1 down.
1ST ROUND
■ Doubles Champions Dave Robinson and Sharon Glass with runners up, Ann Bookham and Ann Smith
AUCTION SALES WEEKLY
MONDAYS 5PM – VIEWING 3PM
LOTS OF HAPPY SELLERS LOTS OF HAPPY BUYERS
Enquiries 07779 088529
Think of the environment, reuse, is the accepted, best method to recycle.
We will survive, a song for awareness of Parkinson’s Disease
The local Tewkesbury and Gloucester Parkinson’s Disease group met on 11th April, to sing along to a live transmission of a new version of the Gloria Gaynor song, I will survive. The song was transmitted live from Westminster and was sung by groups of sufferers around the UK to raise awareness though,newly written lyrics, and titled We Will Survive.. The idea is to raise awareness of the symptoms and frustrations of the disease and encourage people to get in touch with their local group for support and friendship. Here are the new lyrics of the song.
We Will Survive
At first when diagnosed we were petrified. My arm just wouldn’t swing, it hung limp by my side. I went to see a doctor, he said it’s very clear, what you have is Parkinson’s I’ll see you in a year.
So now we’re here, to up the pace, though it’s hard to look determined with that no expression face.
This disease has 40 symptoms from pain to getting stuck, to which the only sane response is to yell - Oh...
DEAR!
I tend to have a daily fall, and I have lost my voice which used to boom right down the hall.
My brain has turned to mush. I can’t get on a bus or train. Why can’t I cross a threshold? God, that’s so hard to explain. So many get, so little care.
Some cannot see a specialist, in what world is that fair?
But if there was awareness, it would stop us being dissed.
We may have a tremor, but it doesn’t mean we’re... DRUNK! Hey ho...,
We need to focus hard, not to fall apart, to be able to put our socks on that would be a start. If people understood they could help us make a case.
I for one have had it since the tender age of 8.
We are fed up!
To our back teeths!
We must bring an end to Parkinson’s disease.
Some think it’s just an illness for cantankerous old men, but each of us has got it, so you’d better think again. We need a cure, we need it soon –Okay, not tomorrow morning, but tomorrow afternoon.
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.
MONDAY-FRIDAY 9am-6.30pm & SATURDAY 9am-10.30am
Parkinson’s is just no fun, and no one knows we’re here, but we’re prepared to make a noise. We will not disappear. We need a cure and better care.
We’re calling for a charter and it’s all in there. If you sign our petition, it will help us all revive. We will survive. We will survive.
To sign the petition visit www.petition.parliament. uk/petitions/713714
The Tewkesbury and Gloucester group is eager to meet more people, a meet takes place every third Thursday in the month for a friendly get together sometimes with guest speakers and trips out, to share experiences with tea coffee, biscuits and Cake, at the Wheatpieces Pub.
Like to pop along? Contact Julie Irwin on 07540
051036 or email; julieparkinsonsgroup@gmail.com
Another group: Dance with Parkinsons with Sarah Hartley, meet at Priors Park Community Church on Tuesdays, and there will be a taster event at Tewkesbury Baptist Church on Tuesday 6th May, 12- 1.30pm. Book with Jane on 073442 253694.
Classics at Prescott
11th May, 10:00 – 16:00 At
The Classics at Prescott is a non-competitive, untimed event for Classic Cars run by Winchcombe Rotary Club with proceeds to Rotary Supported Charities.
This untimed event, run for charity, welcomes owners of Classic Cars to experience driving the hill and meet like minded enthusiasts. Vehicles must be over 25 years old and be road legal.
Enquiries and bookings via Winchcombe Rotary Club website winchcomberotaryclub.com
1st June, 10am - 3pm Tewkesbury Wheatpieces Community Centre, Columbine Road, Walton Cardiff, GL20 7SP. £1 entry Contact
(01386) 561901
New Sculpture Brings Art and Reflection to Victoria Gardens
Friends of Victoria Gardens in Tewkesbury are excited to unveil a sculpture especially commissioned for the historic gardens. The volunteer group plan, plant, and maintain the gardens.
Sculptor Stephen McRae, from nearby Ledbury, gives us this powerful description: ‘In the current’, Sculpture by Stephen McRae, Forged galvanised and acid etched steel and 23.5 carat gold leaf, set in local sandstone.
Victoria Gardens offers us a place of shelter and peace within the hustle and bustle of modern-day life, a place to meet with family and friends or to be alone with nature. This was the principal inspiration for the sculpture coupled with its riverside location.
‘In the current’ exploits the word current with its various meanings and hints at a personal experience.
The sculpture is a snapshot in time. The reeds dancing in the current and the fish sheltering or playing are all connected to the central support that is the stone below. It is therefore about capturing your current moment and en-
couraging you to be in the present.
In this present moment, question the interaction between the shadows of fish, the
frond-like structures and the solid stone. Can you find your current experience entwined or reflected in the piece?
As well as portraying the gardens in flood, the group hope that introducing different elements such as a sculpture will add interest all year
round and enhance the appeal of the gardens for everyone. “People are very supportive of what we do to keep the gardens looking attractive,” said a volunteer. “When we’re here working, usually on a Sunday morning, it’s lovely when people stop to chat and tell us what they like, or how long they’ve been visiting the gardens, or even tell us we’re doing a good job! We’re a very small group and we sometimes get a bit stretched with everything we’re trying to do, so it’s nice to feel that it’s appreciated.”
We thank Cllr Cate Cody for funding the sculpture through the ‘Build Back Better’ scheme
If anyone is interested in helping, there are a variety of jobs which need doing at any particular time.
You can follow Friends of Victoria Gardens and contact them through Facebook: www.facebook.com/FriendsOfVictoriaGardensTewkesbury
Or email: friendsofvictoriagardenstewks@ gmail.com
150 High Street, Tewkesbury
Please can you help, we need:
Books, Audio Books, Large Print, Sheet Music, Puzzles, Pictures, Maps, Stamps, Coins.
Collection can be arranged. Volunteers also needed to help raise money for the local community & Cancer Research UK
and Rare Books
Open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday
REUSE IS THE BEST WAY TO RECYCLE
MAY EVENTS At John Moore Museum
To reserve your place at these events please call 01684 297174 or email education@johnmooremuseum.org
■ MUSEUM
STROLL
- MAY DAY
May Day, celebrated on May 1st, is a European festival of ancient origins marking the beginning of summer, often involving dancing around a maypole, crowning a May Queen, and gathering wildflowers. It has roots in ancient agricultural rituals and is also associated with the celebration of spring and the fertility of the land. Join us for a nature walk, as we celebrate the beginning of summer with a relaxed stroll. Walk will last approximately 30-40 minutes. Join us for a cuppa and refreshments after the walk in the Old Baptist Chapel.
Date and Time: Thursday 1st May at 2.30pm
Location: John Moore Museum
■
MEANING OF SANCTUARY
On Saturday 4th May 1471, the battle of Tewkesbury raged in the fields close by the town. In the rout that followed, many sought sanctuary in the Abbey only to be pursued by the Yorkist forces where fighting continued inside the building, resulting in death and capture of the sheltering soldiers. The Abbey was closed for a month due to the “pollution caused” and had to be re consecrated before it could be reopened.
Chapel
Tickets: £1 per child
■ MUSEUM STROLL - SIGNS OF WILDLIFE
Join us on a relaxed guided stroll through Tewkesbury’s natural spots to see signs of wildlife. Will you catch a glimpse of a curlew? Might you hear the skylark singing… Walk will last approximately 30 –40 minutes. Please join us for a cup of tea in the Old Baptist Chapel afterwards.
Date and Time: Thursday 15th May at 2.30pm
Location: John Moore Museum
■ 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 piss-pot but there is a story behind every object.
Date and Times: Friday 16th May, 11.30am & 2.30pm
OF ARTS AND SCIENCE
Jo Durrant presents a talk looking at the cross section of arts and science. She explores the lives of some of the famous as well as the less well-known polymaths – people who drew on a range of artistic and scientific subjects to solve problems.
As well as the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci, you can expect to meet mathematician Fibonacci, who gave us the Fibonacci Sequence which is used in computer science, but also seen in nature and art; botanist Anna Atkins, most likely the first female photographer, and Hildegard of Bingen, who was a composer, medical writer, and philosopher in the Middle Ages.
Jo will also talk about some of the guests she’s interviewed on her podcast ‘Jo Durrant’s Beautiful Universe’ who combine both arts and science in their work.
Date and Time: Saturday 17th May at 11am Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: Adults £7.00, Concessions £5.50 and Children £3.00
■ BEE FINGER PUPPETS AND ROCKING SNAILS – HALFTERM HOLIDAY
Date and Time:
Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th May –10am to 12pm
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
■ MUSEUM STROLL
- HUG A TREE
Join us on a free relaxed guided stroll on the Abbey Lawn looking at all the trees, they should be in good leaf and blossom by then. Walk will last approximately 30 – 40 minutes. Please join us for a cup of tea in the Old Baptist Chapel afterwards.
Date and Time: Thursday 29th May at 2.30pm
Location: John Moore Museum
■ TALL STORIES
AND TELLING TALES
Gloucestershire has been the home of and inspiration for numerous authors and storytellers over the years, some wellknown others less so. This presentation will look at some of the work of these writers such as Gurney, Harvey, Haines, Moore and Lee as well as others. It will also look at the county’s other literary connections, ranging from weary ways, rabbit holes, pirates, cricket pavilions and even a ring of power.
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Discover the true meaning behind the concept of Church and the idea of sanctuary. He will look at and examine the subject with regards to the battle and how the Monarchy would use it for their own advantage.
Event hosted by the Tewkesbury Battlefield Society and the John Moore Museum.
Date and Time: Saturday 3rd May at 11am
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: £5 per person
■ 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 Time: Saturday 10th May at 10am to 4.30pm
Location: Old Baptist
Location: Merchant’s House Tickets: Adults £5, Concessions £4 & Children £2.50
■ FROM POLYMATHS TO PODCASTS: A HISTORY
CRAFTS
Some fun for the half term holidays with these bee finger puppets and rocking snails. Let your imagination let fly. Ages 3-12. £1 per child. Drop in.
Date and Time: Saturday 31st May at 11am
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
Tickets: Adults £7.00, Concessions £5.50 and Children £3.00
Herbs, soft fruit & vegetable plants • Cottage garden plants, shrubs and roses
• Trees, conifers and hedging plants
• Plant, lawn & garden care products
• Specialist composts & decorative gravels
• Barrels, plastic pots, terracotta & glazed pots
• Specialist bird care products
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General Dentistry
Detection of oral problems early with regular private examinations
Teeth Straightening
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Hygiene Appointments
Remove plaque and calculus from behind the gum line and teeth
Northway Skatepark to Host Official Opening
Jam This May
Installed at the end of 2024, Northway Skatepark has quickly become a well-loved facility within the community.
In celebration of this, the official Skatepark Opening Jam will be taking place on Saturday 31 May from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Northway Playing Field (GL20 8GL).
This family-friendly event is open to all, whether you wish to take part or simply enjoy the action. There will be music, rider demonstrations, competitions, and prizes. The Dogs will also be on site serving delicious street food and ice cream, so be sure to come along and make a day of it!
Feedback from users of the skatepark has been overwhelmingly positive, however, there have been numerous requests for installation of lighting. This is something that Northway Parish Council is actively working towards to further enhance the skatepark’s accessibility and allow safer use of it in the evenings.
The Incredible paintings of Rob Rowlands
At this years Cotswold Festival of Steam, 24th - 26th May, Gloucestershire Artist, Rob Rowlands, will be an honoured guest at the event. His paintings, both detailed and beautifully crafted do so much more than record an event lost in time, they awaken the feelings people felt at the time. In his own words, Rob describes his thoughts.
“I was born and raised in the Midlands during the 50s and 60s in an environment of cobbled streets, gas lamps, back yards, canals and railway viaducts; and all I ever wanted to do was to work somewhere in the professional art industry. I considered special effects, cinema poster art and commercial art but took up the opportunity to work in a picture restoration studio. I went on to graduate from Gloucestershire College of Arts & Technology and a period as a freelance graphic designer followed before being employed in the art and design department of a national brewery designing and painting traditional inn signs.
“It was while working on themes to coincide with the Great Western Railway 150th anniversary celebrations in 1985 that I became fascinated with depicting railways in my own painting and later with other aspects of our industrial heritage.
“I prefer not to analyse where my inspiration comes from but can guess that it derives from my childhood and upbringing. The era of the Industrial Revolution despite all of its moral and economic ambiguities, man working more closely with the earthly elements and the interweaving of nature and industry provide me with all the ingredients I need.
“Although I paint mainly in oils I do sometimes use watercolour, depending on the type of subject and how I want to express it. I have been a member of the Guild of Railway Artists since 1987 and of the Gloucestershire Society of Artists since 1982.”
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
■ Rob Rowlands
A LIFE IN MUSIC AT PROBUS CLUB
From time to time at Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club, rather than bringing in an external speaker, we arrange a “conversation” with one of our members. This is an opportunity for the membership of our Club to get to know a little more about that member in an informal discussion usually with one of our committee members. On this occasion the conversation involved our current Chairman elect, Brian Ley and how music has been his passion throughout his life.
All through the conversation, Brian took the opportunity of demonstrating how music had touched his life with a selection of musical interventions, either with recordings or played by himself on his electronic keyboard. Brian has always been an advocate of the power of music and its unique qualities and gave some examples including how dementia patients respond so well when hearing
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familiar tunes from their life.
Brian told us that he went to piano lessons at the age of four, but when he went to school there were very few music lessons and the sort of music one heard on the “wireless” in the 1950’s was trivial nonsense of no interest to any child drawn to music, until popular music changed significantly in the mid1950’s with the skiffle craze and the emergence of rock and roll stars like Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly.
Brian told us of his frustration on leaving school when the only career he could enter was as a trainee solicitor until he was offered a place at college to study and train as a music teacher. After several years enjoying teaching music, Brian took up an advisory teacher role to support and advise teachers and schools in Devon and Gloucestershire and later with a UK government and an international music education advisory role.
Seldom have I seen such an enthralled audience than on that day. It was informative and entertaining especially when Brian demonstrated his skill and proficiency on the piano but also the numbers of recordings he played to illustrate his life, his career and his total love of music. Our members just loved it!
By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club www,probusclub.net/ tewkesbredon/
Stimulate Your Retirement At Tewkesbury & Bredon Hill Probus Club
Probus Club offers retired and semi-retired professional and business men the opportunity to enrich retirement by joining like-minded people for congenial conversation, sharing experiences, listening to a wide variety of interesting speakers and occasional visits to places of interest.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN MAY:
6 MAY - NO MEETING: BANK HOLIDAY
13 MAY - THE BATTLEFIELD DETECTIVES (WITH TRACEY BOWERS)
20 MAY - JACK IN THE GREEN (WITH MIKE BOTTOMLEY)
27 MAY - NO MEETING: BANK HOLIDAY
Meetings are held at 10.15 a.m. in Bredon Village Hall. Every interested person will receive a very warm welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Steve Tucker on 07803 907243 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/
WHAT’S ON IN MAY at Three Counties Showground
■ 8TH - 11TH MAY RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL
This year’s Festival Theatre will once again host a packed programme of lively talks, interactive demonstrations and expert advice from some of the most respected names in horticulture. This year’s theatre host is TV presenter, broadcaster and former music publicist, Nicki Chapman. She will be joined by of the UK’s favourite gardeners, Alan Titchmarsh CBE, on Friday 9 May, Alan will join Nicki on stage to share insight into what being a ‘good gardener’ means to him.
■ 15TH - 18TH MAY QUILTS UK
■ 17TH - 18TH MAY LAND ROVER MONTHLY LIVE
■ 31ST MAY - 1ST JUNE THE NATIONAL KIT CAR SHOW
TEWKESBURY BRIDGE CLUB
for you if necessary. If you would like further information, then please have a look at our website, www.brigewebs. com/tewkesbury
This year Tewkesbury Bridge Club is celebrating its 60th Anniversary, coinciding with the centenary of Contract Bridge as the game we know today. If you have played bridge before, we would like to invite you to come along to one of our weekly meetings as a visitor. These take place on Wednesday afternoons at Tewkesbury Baptist Church, Station Road, from 1.30 till 5.00 pm. The cost is £3.50 for visitors, which includes tea/coffee in the interval. We know lots of people enjoy playing rubber bridge with friends at home - why not have a go at Duplicate Bridge in a friendly club atmosphere? If you would like some guidance on the differences (such as using bidding boxes or the slightly different scoring method), we can help on a personal level arranged privately. We have a wide range of abilities at the club, and any visitors would be assured of a warm welcome - a partner can be arranged
m The Potting Shed
First Aid
Refresher Evening For Severn Unit
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service was very fortunate when Councillor Paul Jones offered to come along to one of the unit’s training evenings to give them a refresher course in First Aid.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “Paul, who has had many years of experience from his roles at St John Ambulance and the South Western Ambulance Service, was accompanied by Liz Dawes who is the current leader of the Tewkesbury branch of St. John Ambulance. Many aspects of First Aid were covered during the evening with special attention to CPR techniques and the use of defibrillators.”
WHAT’S ON, THIS MONTH
■ TEWKESBURY BOWLING CLUB, GANDER LANE, OPEN DAYS
Friday 2nd May, 5pm to 7pm Saturday 3rd May, 1.00pm to 5.00pm. An opportunity to try Lawn Green Bowling. Refreshments. Please wear flat soled footwear.
■ CROPTHORNE WALKABOUT
Sunday 4th & Monday 5th May. Cropthorne and Charlton Village hall, WR10 3LU. A wonderful family weekend exploring the beautiful gardens of this charming village. Enjoy live music, a miniature steam train, craft market, kids activities and lots of delicious food & drink and homemade afternoon cream tea.
■ ENJOY A GREAT DAY OUT
Travel by heritage train and visit Broadway Fete on the Village Green. Saturday 10th May 11am to 3pm From Cheltenham Racecourse, Winchcombe or Toddington Stations. GWSR.com
With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and an experienced sales and installation team, we can supply and create exactly what you are looking for.
■ Peter Wathen and John Huckvale practice CPR under the watchful guidance of First Aid Trainer Paul Jones
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ALONG THE MILLER’S TRAIL
The route takes in both banks of the Avon, and gives us the chance to see the historic and picturesque twin mills of neighbouring Fladbury and Cropthorne.
Use the public car park at Jubilee Bridge, where there is a small picnic area.
The bridge spans the Avon to link three attractive villagesFladbury, Cropthorne and Charlton.
The original bridge was built in 1887 to mark the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria. Before that time the only way to cross the Avon was by means of a water gate near Cropthorne.
This was a series of gates and sluices on top of a weir, which could be closed when water was low, and enable the river to be forded.
The 1887 bridge was replaced by the present iron arch structure in 1933.
Leave the car park and cross the bridge, (1) and look out for a kissing gate on the right (2).
Go through into the meadow, and walk along its edge with the road and a fence to your left.
At the end of the meadow, bear right and then go over a footbridge on to a small island (3)
Ahead of you is a bench where you may admire this lovely setting, and read the information boards which trace the history of the
two mills here.
Fladbury’s Mill is to the left: in front of you
between the weir and the lock is the impressive red brick Cropthorne Mill. The view above was taken from Fladbury - the village is worth a detour, especially as it contains two pubs! There is also a famous pie shop in the village centre, which has been featured on TV.
Go back over the footbridge, but this time go along the river bank (with the Avon to your left) and follow the path back to the bridge.
Here is another information board, beneath which are a few fragments of metal which are all that’s left of one of the original cast iron bridge’s supports. Go through the gate (2), and back over the bridge.
Turn left up the lane which runs between car park and the Avon. Look for the yellow waymarker arrow on the left (4)
Distance: approx. 2.5 miles, flat, riverside walk (NB: the meadows flood at certain times of year. Do not undertake this walk when flood warnings are in place).
Car Parking: small free car park at Jubilee Bridge. Refreshments: The Anchor or Chequers Inn at Fladbury; The Gardeners Arms at Charlton. Sketch Map: not to scale - for guidance only. OS Sheets 190/205 are recommended.
Follow the direction through the gate and down to the river. Bear right and follow the river bank until you reach the end of the meadow.
Cross a footbridge (5) and bear left over a stile to reach the lock behind Cropthorne Mill.
Keep the lock to your left, then cross another stile to return to the river
bank.
Opposite you now are the moorings of some Fladbury homes whose well manicured lawns sweep down to the Avon.
Carry on along the path until you reach the railway bridge, where the path peters out (6) Retrace your steps back to the car park.
Cropthorne Mill on the River Avon
AND ABOUT
Continued from Page
ECKINGTON OPEN GARDENS AND FLOWER FESTIVAL: Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May, 11am-5pm. 1940s Weekend - £7 admission for both days, children free. 17+ open gardens, 25 classic cars and military vehicles, live music, children’s activities, cream teas. www.eckington.info
COOPER’S HILL CHEESE ROLLING: Monday 26th May, Races start 12 noon. Traditional event in which participants chase Double Gloucester Cheese down a precipitous slope! Separate men’s and women’s races, entry is free. Note that parking is limited an the hill is not accessible to all. Off the A46 near Brockworth: postcode GL3 4SB.
ALL THINGS WILD: Year-round family attraction, open from 10am-5pm every day. Animals, dinosaur experience, train rides, soft play, indoor and outdoor activities. Adventure experiences for those aged over 8. Located at Station Road, Honeybourne, Evesham WR11 7QZ. www. allthingswild.co.uk For all your electrical needs - Domestic, Commercial and Industrial
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Natton Garage
Centre, Natton Lane, Ashchurch, Tewkesbury GL20 7BG