A group of hard-working local volunteers have ensured the
Tewkesbury’s annual Fireworks Display and the Christmas
with both events taking place this month. The fireworks display will be in the Vineyards on Sunday 2nd November.
Carol Crilly, from the organising committee, said: “Earlier this year, the past organisers of the event, Tewkesbury Rotary Club sadly had to step back.
“But a group of keen volunteers decided that the town couldn’t lose this event!
“The format is the same as last year, site opens at 5pm for fairground rides and food.
“The bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm followed by the firework display at 7pm. Please be aware that parking will be restricted, please refer to our Facebook page Tewkesbury Fireworks for full details of the evening.
“This is a free event, we do have support from Bookworm and Tewkesbury Town Council but we would greatly appreciate any (cash) dona-
tions on the night
“We also do have a ‘GoFundMe’ page that can be reached via our Facebook page.”
Karen Brennan, founder and manager of Bookworm, added:
“When the new committee of volunteers approached us for help, we were delighted to get involved.
“This event is a highlight of the local calendar and one that brings families together, especially as there are so few organised firework displays in the county that
are free to attend. We’re thrilled that our contribution, realised from the sale of books, will help ensure a spectacular and memorable evening for the younger members of our community.
“We’d also like to extend our thanks to the new committee for their hard work and dedication in bringing this much-loved event to life."
The town’s Christmas Market and Lights Switch On will be on Sunday 23rd November
This is a novel set in and experiencing the Biafran War fought in Nigeria between 1967-1970.
Whilst reading it I was reminded of "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie which won the 2007 Women's Prize for Fiction and which shares the same timescale, yet the two books are so totally different. Obioma immerses us, his reader in amongst the fighters, the daily struggle of soldiers fighting for the Biafran cause against the might of Nigeria supported by International and Colonial Allies. Obioma has written a powerful story - a no holes barred account of a group of soldiers, their lives and battles fought, enhanced with backgrounds of family life before hostilities.
Kunle, the main character was a student at Lagos University before returning home where his parents ask him to bring his wheelchairbound brother back from the war zone.
They live within West Nigeria but Tunde who had moved East to Biafra where their childhood friend, Nkechi and family have resettled. Kunle's own mother was born in Biafra. There is history between the brothers which all dates back to an accident that resulted in Tunde's disability. It is Kunle's guilt that created this void and also caused him to draw back from Nkechi.
Aided by volunteering for the Red Cross, Kunle reaches Biafra which is where his life is turned upside down and he finds himself compelled to fight for the Biafran militia. Here he meets a group of four comrades in arms.
It is this quintet of soldiers and colleagues who fight together, struggle to survive, exist with each other's help, that makes the core of the battleground story within this book. There are of course officers and medics but we experience the war through the lives of this troop of soldiers.
Meanwhile Kunle is always trying to reach his brother Tunde but the world is
endeavouring to make this task seemingly impossible.
The book is sprinkled with other characters, Fredrick Forsyth, even making an appearance or two alongside other Europeans some being mercenaries. There is a helpful page listing the cast of characters which I found an aid to navigate the names and their relationships to each other.
The pages and chapters are interwoven with the observation of a "Seer", Igbala Oludamisi, who is foreseeing these events from back in 1947 - the year of Kunle's birth. This is a slight divergence from the storyline but in some strange way the diversion works, never actually disrupting the story itself just adding an extra theme.
Kunle's military career sees him promoted nor does he only endure war as a romance flourishes with a female soldier, Agi, so this book has softer themes against the strife of battle and Kunle's heartache to find his brother.
The Biafran War has now faded from memory into history. This fictionalised account based on the author's interviews with combatants is a compelling read and a reminder of the atrocities inflicted by the Nigerian Government, yet it is not a hard read and sits well against Adichie's book which has become a kind of modern classic.
Selected by:
Ian B. Nicholson Alison’s Bookshop High Street Tewkesbury GL20 5JR
Tewkesbury’s Christmas Market and Lights Switch On will take place on Sunday 23rd November, from 12pm closing at 6pm.
“There will be over 80 stalls offering many delights, fairground rides and of course our very popular stage by
The Cross, where there will be entertainment beginning at 12pm,” said Carol Crilly.
The festivities will culminate with the ‘Switch On’ at 5pm by the pantomime cast of The Roses Theatre.
“This year’s Panto is Jack and the Beanstalk and you will be able to purchase Panto tickets
from their stall.
“And don’t forget to visit Santa in his sleigh outside the Town Hall! We have everything crossed that we don’t get a repeat of the weather from last year!”
Bredons Norton resident Joan Jenkins, has been creating smiles on the faces of passers by after decorating the redundant Telephone Kiosk by her house, on various themes for the last 5 years.
Central to the attraction is Miss Ratty, a soft toy left to Joan by an elderly resident some years ago.
Miss Ratty appears in various guises and situations regularly throughout the year, however her Telephone box has just acquired a brand new countryside mural, courtesy of local artist Brandon Higgins.
Joan thanks residents who clubbed together to cover the cost of the artwork and invites readers to pop by with their children to see Miss Ratty’s world change with the months and seasons.
VEHICLE
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Tech in Tewkesbury: Connecting People, Not Just Devices
While providing digital support in Tewkesbury Borough, I’ve discovered something surprising - the needs are rarely just about technology. In a world moving faster than ever, it’s about people staying connected to those who matter most.
Technology is everywhere: the NHS App for ordering repeat prescriptions, your local supermarket loyalty points schemes, and community group WhatsApp chats - but what if you don’t have a phone? What if you have limited eyesight? What if you’re scared of what could go wrong? These are real barriers that I support people in our community to tackle every day.
This month I’ve
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worked with people across the borough to help them develop their confidence and use their devices to feel more connected. One client was struggling with her mental health, as a change in her physical health meant that getting out of the house, something that had once been effortless, now required more energy than she had. Losing that independence can be incredibly isolating, but after spending some time together, I showed her how to use her tablet to make video calls, stay in touch with her friends, go on virtual walks, share what she was reading, and laugh for the first time in months. The moment she realised she could do these things herself, she cried with relief. It’s a simple tool, but one that helped her reclaim her freedom.
Each success story contributes to a happier and more connected borough. At places like Northway Community Hub and The Black Bear Tavern, I work alongside local groups to discover what people are struggling with, and for those who need a bit more
help, I visit them at their home or in a local space. Digital support isn’t really about devices - it’s about people. It’s about helping our neighbours feel seen, capable, and connected in an increasingly digital world, and when we do that, we’re not just teaching technology - we’re building
up our community. If you would like information on getting free digital support or when your nearest digital drop-in is, please call 07454 066116 or email digital@grcc.org.uk
By Ella May Wallace, Digital and Technology Navigator, Tewkesbury Borough Council
■ Supporting D.H. In Tewkesbury
■ LIVING HISTORY
TOURS – MEDIEVAL SPICE MERCHANTS
Discover what life was like for Medieval Spice Merchant, Annabelle Burton, living in Tewkesbury in the early 15th century. This particular session will be focusing on the preparation for Winter. Which ingredients were available for purchase? How expensive were spices? Where in the world were the spices grown and sold from? Along which trade routes will our Spice Merchant travel on…
Date and Times: Friday 7th and Saturday 8th November. 11am, 12pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm. Tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Location: The Merchant’s House
Tickets: Adults £5.00, Concessions £4.00, Children £2.50. Tickets include entry to the John Moore Museum as well.
■ THE GREAT TRAIN ROBBERY, 1963
Did you know there were local links to the crime? Did you know they stopped a train that was travelling over 80MPH? How much did the robbers actually manage to steal? This talk isn’t a celebration of the crime nor the robbers, it is the story of Ian’s research into the robbery which took place in 1963.
Speaker: Ian Boskett
Date and Time: Saturday 8th November at 11am.
Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: £5.
■ MUSEUM STROLL: THE FOLKLORE OF PLANTS
We often think of the supernatural as the nights start drawing in. Join us on a FREE museum stroll, as we wander through the museum gardens looking at the folklore and meanings of plants. Were they used for medicine? Were they connected with witches and fairies? What plants would you give to a loved one?
Date and Time: Thursday 13th November at 11am.
Starting Location: John Moore Museum
■ DOVECOTE WILLOW: CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP
Get into the festive spirit and create your own stunning Christmas wreath in this hands-on Willow Wreath Making Workshop. Using sustainably harvested natural willow, evergreen foliage, and other beautiful natural materials, you’ll craft a unique holiday decoration to take home and cherish. Please note, good hand dexterity is required for weaving and shaping the materials. No prior experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm! All materials, tools and refreshments (teas, coffee and mince pies) provided.
Workshop Leader: Vicky Smith
Date and Times: Friday 28th November - 10.30am to 1pm Tickets: £40
Location: Old Baptist Chapel
■ PENGUIN CROSS STITCH - CHRISTMAS CARD
This time around, Sue will be teaching the group on how to make a cross-stitch penguin which can be used on a Christmas Card! All skillsets are welcome. All materials will be supplied.
Workshop Leader: Sue Tickner Date and Times: Saturday
29th November - 2.30pm to 4pm.
Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: £7.50.
■ MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT
The Ledbury Waytes will entertain you with Christmas tunes from the medieval period alongside tunes you know today as
Christmas Carols that were based on medieval dance tunes – the word “carol” originally meaning a song or tune with an accompanying circle dance. Hear about the origins of some of our Christmas traditions and listen to such instruments as the Symphonie and Hurdy Gurdy, the medieval fiddle, crumhorns, gemshorns, shawms and rauschpfeife
along with assorted percussion. Start your Christmas celebrations here!
Workshop Leader: Ledbury Waytes.
Date and Time: Saturday
6th December at 2.30pm
Location: Old Baptist Chapel Tickets: £10.
Local GP Dr Charlotte Zoltonos, a fundraiser and volunteer at Vale Wildlife, said: “Earlier
this year, I was honoured to be named an ITV Pride of Britain Regional Finalist, and
I’ve now joined forces with other regional finalists to create a charity concert in support of Vale Wildlife Hospital.
sands.
“All proceeds from the event will go directly to Vale Wildlife Hospital, which provides 24/7 care for over 8,000 wild animals each year.
“The charity receives no government funding and faces running costs of over £75,000 per month, so every bit of support truly makes a difference.
“We are incredibly grateful to our local sponsors and community supporters who are helping make this event possible.”
es by my fellow Pride of Britain finaliststhe Port of Bristol Shanty Singers and Rhys, the Night Church Pianist.
“The Candlelit Christmas Concert will take place at Cheltenham College Chapel on Saturday 20th December with doors opening at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
“Further details about ticketing will be released very soon.
“This special evening will feature performanc-
“Rhys, also known as the ‘mysterious homeless pianist,’ became an internet sensation after a video of him playing Bohemian Rhapsody went viral.
“Since then, his passion for music and fundraising has continued to inspire thou-
Dr. Charlotte Zoltonos and Vale WIldlife friends
LOOKING TO GET A FAIR PRICE FOR YOUR CAR,
Local car buyer, Shaun Taylor, has an enviable reputation in the Tewkesbury area, for buying cars, his numerous, glowing testimonials from satisfied customers reliably acknowledge the friendly reliable service he offers.
Customers can call Shaun anytime to discuss a potential sale, he is always happy to visit, appraise the vehicle and offer a firm price, then, if that is acceptable, he will settle
immediately into a bank account, process the administration and take the vehicle away, there and then.
Shaun says, “I have been buying for so many
Shaun Taylor –Approved Buyer
years now, I understand customers like to know who they are dealing with and to get a personal agreeable service, many admit they would rather deal with a human
than spend time working through car buying websites and computerised valuations, with the hope a vehicle inspection does not affect an online valuation. I like to make life
as easy and transparent as possible for owners and I think they speak for me, and I am happy
to share many of the testimonials I have received with potential customers, but these are just a few.”
“ car sale - Excellent experience fair price super service and a loevely gent.
“ Sold my first car to Shaunhe made the whole process super easy and was very friendly and helpful (and gave me a good deal). Would recommend to anyone.
“ Excellent Service - Shaun came to view our car and offered us a really good price. Quick and easy transaction. Highly recommended.
AUTUMN COLOUR
AT BATSFORD: Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre, Near Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AT. Autumn is one of the best times to visit this glorious arboretum, with its grotto, water features and Japanese House. Garden Centre, shop and restaurant. For more information and opening times visit batsarb.co.uk
TEWKESBURY
BATTLEFIELD GUIDED
WALK: Sun 2nd Nov and Sun 7th Dec, 10am-12 noon. 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
THE ENCHANTED GARDEN BY NIGHT:
From Fri 28th Nov until Mon 29th Dec (selected nights). The Rococo Garden, Painswick GL6 6TH. Step into the magic of Christmas in the illuminated garden, with a woodland village, elegantly lit follies and enchanting scenes at every turn. Tickets and more information from rococogarden.org.uk
THE SPECTACLE OF LIGHT: Fri 21st NovTues 30th Dec(selected nights). Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe GL54 5JD. Wonderful nighttime illuminated trail around the magical grounds of historic Sudeley Castle. Tickets and details from spectacleoflight.co.uk
WESTONBIRT
NATIONAL ARBORETUM: Christmas at Westonbirt. Fri 28th Nov - Wed 31st Dec (selected evenings). Follow the enchanting illuminated trail at Westonbirt National Arboretum Near Tetbury, GL8 8QS. Over a million twinkling lights and season sounds filling the air with festive fun. Tickets and details forestryengland.co.uk
CHELTENHAM ICE RINK: Fri 21st NovSun 4th Jan. Covered ice rink in Imperial Gardens with skating sessions suitable for all
ages (above 3 years) and abilities. Food and drink available, Imperial Gardens, Cheltenham GL50 1QZ. Further details and tickets from visitcheltenham.com
SANTA EXPRESS: Sat 22nd Nov-Tues 23rd Dec, various trains. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. An enchanting adventure as passengers are transported by a decorated steam train through the Cotswolds to meet Santa and his elves. Advance booking essential - details/tickets from www.gwsr.com
EVESHAM
CHRISTMAS MARKET: Sat 29th Nov, 10am5pm. Yule and Festive Market in the Town Square and Bridge Street (WR11 4RW). Drinks, food, gifts, crafts, and a visit from Santa. More details visitevesham.co.uk
Ice Skating in Cheltenham: Imperial Gardens by night
OSCAR JOINS MANN’S BARBERSHOP IN BREDON
Chris Mann opened his barbershop at 4 Station Villas, Bredon, in August 2023. He offers a relaxed, friendly and
gents, seniors and children’s cuts, hair and beard, buzz cuts, skin fades and more. Walk-ins may be available, but
He says “It’s been just over two years since we opened our doors, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We are now well established and fully booked, all thanks to the support of our amazing clients.
“We’re proud of how far we’ve come in just 2 years, and are looking forward to many more.
“I am so pleased to be serving in my home
“To keep up with demand we’re excited to announce the addition of a new barber to our team, Oscar. This means more availability and even more quality service to keep you looking sharp.
village community. I am looking forward to meeting new clients as well as friends and neighbours too.
You can easily make an appointment by scanning my QR code on this
page to go through to my booking site. Alternatively, you can find everything on our website www.mannsbarbershop.co.uk or call me on 07786 863990. We look forward to seeing everyone soon”.
Mann’s Barbershop 4 Station Villas Bredon GL20 7LU SCAN TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Our boiler care plans are here to provide you with peace of mind should you be without heating and hot water at your home. An annual boiler service is included with all our boiler care packages. For as little as £10 per month (Gas/LPG) or £18 per month (Oil), your home heating is managed by Storm Heating Ltd, a respected local business that provides services to customers across Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.
PRICING (SHOWN BELOW)
We research our local market to ensure our pricing remains competitive. All pricing is monthly and subject to VAT @ 20%.
The minimum agreement period for any of our cover plans is 12 months from the date of the 1st payment taken from your bank account. After that, your cover plan will be reviewed annually to ensure that it meets our minimum requirements, usually based on the age, condition and availability of parts for the boiler.
All packages are subject to a home survey & terms and conditions apply. To get started, please contact us on 01684 291622 or visit our boiler care plan website www.stormheating.co.uk
■ Chris Mann
■ Oscar ■ Mann’s Barbershop, with easy parking outside the barbershop
“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
Twyning Men’s Shed Outreach
From 4 guys in 2022 Twyning Mens Shed has grown to 50! So that’s 30 who signed up for the Men’s Shed, 10 for the Sister Shed, and a further 10 in the Community Garden!
to extend the seasons and growing space. So if you’re interested in gardening and would like to
The addition of the Community Garden this year has seen 10 raised beds rescued from a creeping wilderness, and a further 4 beds added, an old greenhouse resurrected and a garden shed that didn’t make the transition is about to be replaced.
join a happy group who like getting their hands dirty, contact Helen on 07810 403077.
Helen and her team of happy gardeners have put the beds through their paces this year and produced a huge crop of fruit and vegetables and they have aspirations to do so much more! There are 2 projects under way or being considered. Firstly the new potting shed has arrived at Green Farm and is soon to be erected. This will make potting up, and storage much easier and will doubtless put more pressure on the 14 raised beds that are currently available.
So the next project under consideration is going to be a poly tunnel
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
25TH TRAFALGAR NIGHT DINNER
CELEBRATIONS FOR SEVERN UNIT MVS
sales@allfasttewkesbury.co.uk
Unit G2, Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8JH
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service held their 25th Trafalgar Night Dinner on 17th October at Brown’s Restaurant, Tewkesbury Garden Centre.
Head of Unit Nic Price said “It was a most successful evening attended by 31 people who enjoyed an excellent meal. We were very pleased that Town Mayor Cllr. Alan Hayes and his Wife and Consort Diana were able to join us for the evening and the Toast to the Immortal Memory was given by Regional
Volunteer Officer (Retd.) David Frazier. Among our guests we were also pleased to welcome no less than three RVO’s - two retired and one current - as well as Avon Navigation Reach Master Paul Cronin and his Wife Margaret. The evening was rounded off with a rousing rendition of the Sea Shanty “A
RECORD FAIR
Vinyl, Literature, Cassettes & CDs
Drop of Nelson’s Blood” lead by Nic Price, Ben Foster-Smith and Richard Price. Altogether it was a most memorable and enjoyable evening.”
At The Wheatpieces Community Centre, Columbine Road, Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury GL20 7SP Sunday 30th November 10am - 3pm Free on-site parking £1 Tari
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.
■ Russ Davidson Deputy Head of Severn Unit, David Frazier RVO (Retd.), Sue Price Unit Publicity Officer, Nic Price Head of Severn Unit, Mayor’s Consort Diana Hayes. Tewkesbury Town Mayor Cllr. Alan Hayes, RVO Bristol Channel & S. Wales Region Mike Angwin and Gordon McDonald RVO (Retd.)
CHANGING THE NARRATIVE AROUND
MEN’S
MENTAL HEALTH
A Visit from the Town Sergeant and Crier. I was pleased to welcome Richard Whincup, the Town Sergeant and Crier of Tewkesbury, to the reflection rooms where I run my counselling business, MJW Counselling. It was an excellent opportunity to show him around and have a meaningful catch up. We have known each other for quite some time and have often discussed the challenges men face in accessing counselling. This meeting provided the perfect occasion to continue our conversation and explore how we might support men in overcoming these barriers.
Addressing Barriers to Counselling for Men
Currently, men’s mental health is receiving increased attention in the media. There is a significant push to encourage men to talk openly about their mental health issues and to break away from old habits and ingrained ways of thinking that many of us grew up with. The traditional idea of being stoic and demonstrating resilience in the face of hardship has long been seen as the ‘manly’ way to cope. However, it is now time to challenge this expectation, creating an environment where men can feel comfortable expressing their emotions and understand that they do not have to face difficulties alone.
The Importance of Honest Conversation
As a town Sergeant and Crier, Rich’s role is to speak publicly and as loudly as possible. Yet, this outward confidence is a trait we often observe in others, too. Sometimes, being loud and confident in public can serve as a façade, masking the underlying difficulties a person is experiencing. It is not uncommon to hear people say, “He seemed so confident, so full of life,” especially when discussing individuals with high-profile personalities who have tragically taken their own lives. Unfortunately, the struggles that lie beneath the surface often go unnoticed.
Creating Space for Support
This is why it is so important to create safe spaces where men can talk openly, whether that is with friends or with professionals. Changing the narrative around men’s mental health issues is crucial. By fostering environments that encourage honest dialogue and support, we can help men feel less isolated and more empowered to seek help when they need it most.
If you do want to find out more about counselling, please get in touch via my website www. mjwcounselling.co.uk
By Mervyn Woodward of MJW Counselling
m Town Sergeant & Crier Richard Whincup with Mervyn Woodward
Distance: approx. 2 miles, easy terrain.
Car Parking: on-street parking, with respect to local residents, in Ashton-under-Hill’s main street.
Bus Service: 540 bus route from Tewkesbury, daytimes, Monday-Saturday.
Refreshments: The Star Inn, Ashton-under-Hill or Bredon Country on the A46 towards Evesham. There is also The Old Post Office Café in nearby Beckford, or the eatery at Beckford Silk.
Our Sketch Map is not to scale and is for guidance only. OS Sheet 190 recommended
STROLLING AROUND PARIS
Did you know it’s possible to see the delights of Paris without a passport? Yes, it can be reached by a delightful ancient track- and it’s one of Bredon Hill’s hidden gems, writes Jack B. Walker.
The Paris in question is a quiet little spot on the lower slopes of Bredon Hill, just a short hop from Ashton-under-Hill.
Ashton-under-Hill is known to many as the setting for the author Fred Archer’s books, which documented farming and rural life on Bredon Hill in the first half of the twentieth century.
Park your car in Ashton’s main street just beyond the First School (also accessible by 540 bus from Tewkesbury) and walk up the slope.
Look out for Bakers Lane, which is the first turning on the left (1) Turn into it and follow the lane as it winds up the hill. Eventually it levels out and becomes a rough track. Keep straight ahead, ignoring the various footpaths to the left and right.
The view to the left (foliage permitting) is over St Barbara’s Church at Ashton and beyond it Dumbleton Hill and the Cotswolds (photo above)
Eventually you will come to the cluster of
houses which make up the tiny hamlet of Paris.
On your left you will see the gateway to Bredon Springs. This was formerly an exotic garden open to the public - the former home of a botanist who discovered that many unusual plants would grow here due to the warm fresh water springs.
Walk ahead, ignoring the track to the right (2) and go down the stoney slope. At the bottom, look for a gap in the hedge and turn right (3) then go straight ahead along the footpath.
Eventually you will
come into a field. Go along the edge, keeping the hedge on your right, and over a footbridge. Head towards a farm gate next to some cottages, one of which was once a temporary home to a well-known local writer of country walks!
When you reach the lane (4) turn right and go up a track, which leads into an orchard (5). Go through the gate and bear right, keeping the fence to your right. Cross over a stile and a stream, then up the bank and diagonally right.
This path will bring you back to point (3)
Bear right along the track and though a farm gate, following the way marker diagonally right to a gate (often left open), keep the perimeter on your right, with a small pond (known locally as the Moat, pictured below) behind it.
When you reach the edge of the churchyard, go through the kissing gate (6) and carry on past the lovely old parish church. Dating back to the 1100s, it is said to be one of only three churches in England dedicated to St Barbara. Go through the lych gate (7) and turn left. Pass the Star Inn and return to your car.
Looking down to Ashton church and beyond
The Moat
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TEWKESBURY Garden
Centre’s pre-Christmas Shopping Event will be taking place on Thursday 27th November between 16:30 & 19:30, writes Rachel Gallagher.
There will be a huge 25% off throughout the garden centre, (food and drink items excluded).
At our pre-Christmas shopping evening Brown’s will be servicing up delicious roast turkey baps!
We will be inviting
Did someone say Christmas?
local crafters to join us and have a stall where they can sell their handmade goods. There are still a few tables available, so please call Brown’s on 01684 299996 if you'd like to reserve a spot.
Our Christmas elves, at The Flower Shed, have worked their magic on our Christmas department too.
We have decorations, lights and gifts available to buy now, and local homegrown Christmas trees will be ready from 27th November.
If you're looking for a larger tree than usual, let us know. We have lots available but they will be cut to order only. These are competitively priced
and ideal for larger homes, offices and outdoor spaces.
Browns are very excited to launch a new autumnal menu, designed and created by our new Head Chef, Harriet.
The menu combines cosy, homecooked comforts with autumnal delights. You can browse the latest menus online via our website.
There’s a new Brown’s Brunch Club with an exclusive offer to loyalty card members. Take your pick from a delicious brunch plate and a hot drink for just £12. The menu is updated weekly on Facebook and Instagram. Our midweek roasts are proving to be a popular one, and they will continue for the foreseeable.
Every Wednesday you can get two courses, a roast and a pudding, for £19.00.
Festive events coming up include a Christmas by Candlelight evening on Thursday 11th December. Booking is essential - please contact Brown’s. For more information about our Christmas menus, see our website tewkesburygardencentre .com
The Shed at Tewkesbury Garden Centre is now available to hire for private events and parties, for up to 30 people.
So far, this year, we have hosted birthday parties, anniversary celebrations and baby showers.For more information, please contact Browns on the number listed above.
Autumn is the perfect time to get your garden ready for winter, by chopping back plants that have finished blooming and clearing out flower beds. It's also a great time to pick any fruits or vegetables remaining, and give greenhouses a clean to ensure it's ready for next year. Our end of season sale is ongoing, but will only be around while stock last. Don't miss out on your chance to save 25% on all plants, shrubs and trees. Please note are now operating our winter hours and close at 4:30pm Monday to Friday.
Thursday 27th November 4.30pm-7.30pm
Newly arrived ranges of Christmas Decorations | Lights | Gifts
Local and Homegrown Christmas Trees from 27th November
Three Choirs Wine Tasting | Rockfield Gin from Hereford Roast Turkey Baps from Browns
4.30-7.30PM*
*EXCLUDES FOOD & DRINK ITEMS
NEW AUTUMN MENU NOW AVAILABLE
Plus everything you need for your garden this autumn!
We are open Monday to Saturday 9.00am-4.30pm, Sunday 10am-4.00pm
We are open every day for Breakfast | Lunch | Teas | Midweek Roasts
Homecooked comforts and autumnal delights created by our Head Chef Harriet - Menus available online. Brunch Club offers for members
To book call 01684 299996 or info@brownsgardenrestaurant.co.uk
Speciality teas, coffee, cakes, snacks, milkshakes, ice cream and sundaes
Eat in or Takeaway
Open Weekends 10am-4pm
Venue available to hire for parties - call 01684 29996
Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 4.30pm
GARDENING MONTHLY
We’re experiencing an unusually spectacular autumn this year, with the countryside flaunting itself in shades of gold, crimson, and ambe, writes Tim Hoskins.
Autumnal stunners
The trees seem to be showing off before slowly undressing for winter - and really, who can blame them?
The colours are courtesy of a perfect trio of dry weather, sunny days, and cool nights since late August. With high sugar content in the leaves and chlorophyll breaking down slowly, those hidden pigments finally have their moment in the sun.
For gardeners, this well-behaved autumn has its practical perks too.
With leaves falling early and steadily, its easier to gradually add them to grass clippings for easy compost, though sometimes one big dump can be satisfying - a rare pleasure in any gardener’s life, if it’s done before Christmas.
For a tip I borrow from permaculture: is it energy efficient to move material from one area of the garden to another, to compost it and bring it back later as mulch?
Sometimes leaves are better left in situ or blown into the back of a bed and they’re far more beneficial to the soil
biome than bare soil.
Many deciduous hedges can still be given a light touch-up, though it’s best to leave evergreens like Buxus (box) and Taxus (yew) alone now.
No one appreciates a cold snap after an illtimed cut, and these evergreens are no exception.
Crisping up architectural shapes, like hedges, path edges, shrubs can make a garden look cared for in winter, when its otherwise bare.
Roses, too, are almost ready for attention. Once their leaves have dropped, prune them by about a third to stop them getting too windtossed through the winter.
And if you’re still in the mood for a bit of propagation, November is perfect for taking hardwood cuttings from shrubs like dogwood (Cornus), buddleja, forsythia, and flowering currant (Ribes).
Slip them into a pot, keep them cosy, and let nature do the rest - a satisfying little project to keep your hands busy through the colder months.
Altogether, this autumn has been one long, colourful performance; nature’s final flirt before giving us the cold shoulder.
- with Tim Hoskins
Tim Hoskins
Christmas FAYRE
Two courses
Three courses
£27.95
£32.95
served in the main pub and restaurant throughout December
DINNER
£29.95
£34.95
Childs (up to 12yrs only) one course £11.95 two course £14.95 3 course £17.95 all options include tea or coffee, mince pies and christmas cracker pre booked pre order menu
Starter
Leek & potato soup (v) (ve) (g)
Chicken liver parfait with mixed leaf & red onion marmalade (g)
Atlantic prawns in a marie rose sauce with mixed leaf (g)
All served with rustic bread
Main
Roasted turkey breast, roast potatoes, mixed vegetables, pig in blanket,cranberry stuffing & red wine jus (g)
Pan fried Scottish salmon, new potatoes, mixed vegetables & provencale sauce (g)
Vanilla cheesecake with red berry coulis (v) (ve) (g)
Salted caramel chocolate pot with sugar curl (g)
Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy créme anglaise (v) (ve) (g)
Selection of three local cheeses, biscuit selection & real ale chutney (g) a £1.95 supplement applies to the cheese board
Tea or coffee served with mince pies
CROFT FARM FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR 2025
FRIDAY 7TH NOVEMBER | 6:00 PM At Croft Farm
The Croft Farm Fireworks Spectacular is taking place on Friday, 7th November 2025. Set against a vibrant backdrop of colourful fireworks, the event promises an exciting evening of entertainment.
Gates open at 6pm, allowing visitors to arrive early and enjoy the atmosphere. At 7pm, live music will kick off with Kings Of The Hill, creating the perfect build-up to the main event. The highlight of the night will be at 8pm, when fireworks synchronized to music will light up the sky. Kings Of The Hill will continue with more live music after the display.
Tickets are available at early bird prices from the Croft Farm website, costing £20 per car or £5 per person walking in. Booking fees apply. Importantly, the event supports a good cause, with proceeds going to the Air Ambulance. With a
mix of music, fireworks, and community spirit, this promises to be a memorable evening for
For the most beautiful Christmas
families and friends to enjoy together.
Tickets now on sale, please scan QR code.
Church Street Gi s look forward to welcoming you for Quality Meads, Tewkesbury 1471 Gin, decorations, cards, candles and locally cra ed items.
CHURCH STREET GIFTS
Open 9.00am - 5.30pm 39 Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5SN (Opposite the Mezbaan Restaurant) 01684 437400
There are a good number of car enthusiasts in Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club and nearly all of them went on a guided tour of the iconic Morgan Motors Car factory in Malvern Link. Although the factory has been in Malvern since 1910 when it was set up by HFS Morgan, it is substantially the same as it was more than 100 years ago.
At the start we gathered in a presentation area to watch a promotional video about the company and to introduce our two guides who then took us on the factory tour.
We viewed the latest models outside, then moved into the storage areas where the all-aluminium chassis are kept before assembly inside the factory itself Morgans are built like no other car. For anyone who has visited a mod-
Probus Club visits Morgan Cars
ern mass production car factory with frenetic activity and robots assembling the cars and components, the Morgan factory is a revelation. There are no production lines, just individual human beings building cars, often an individual car being built by just one person. I noticed that our guide referred to the operatives building the
cars as engineers, rather than assembly workers. His reply to my observation was that other manufacturers just assemble cars, but Morgan actually builds them. Despite the age of the buildings, the factory is very clean and the personnel in each of the workshops seem to have a relaxed approach to building the cars and
their components. It was astonishing to watch the engineers’ skills in manipulating their specific components to ensure a perfect fit. Morgan cars are unique in having an ash frame and it was fascinating to watch skilled woodworkers using hand tools to create the perfect finish of the wood frames before the all-aluminium panels are attached. The last area we visited in the factory was the finishing and testing facility where final preparations are undertaken before the cars are sent to their proud new owners.
This was a memorable visit to a unique company which is still thriving and supplying an exclusive product to many happy customers around the world.
By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club www.probusclub.net/ tewkesbredon
Winter Glow Returns
21ST NOVEMBER -31ST DECEMBER At Malvern Showground
Winter Glow, the biggest festive event in the Three Counties, returns to the Malvern Showground for 2025.
There is a wide range of attractions for the whole family to enjoy, including the region’s largest covered ice rink, a spectacular 2km light trail with over 20 dazzling installations, and personalised Santa’s Grotto experiences.
Families can also take on the glow-in-the-dark 18-hole UV golf course. The festive fairground is also making a return along with the Christmas market, open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until 22nd December.
Late Night Christmas Shopping In Broadway
This year’s Broadway Late Night Christmas Shopping evenings are Friday 28th November & Friday 5th December 2025 from 4.30 to 8.30pm.
Lovely festive atmosphere, beautiful Christmas lights, Music, Mulled Wine. Plus Reindeer, Father Christmas and lots more. Parking in four council car parks.
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 NOVEMBER:
4 NOV - STORIES FROM THE CONCORDE FLIGHT DECK (WITH CAPT. JOHN HUTCHINSON)
11 NOV - THE FRENCH FOREIGN LEGION (WITH RICHARD JEYNES)
18 NOV - THE JAVELIN PARK INCINERATOR (WITH DIANE GREEN)
25 NOV - SPIES AND SPYING (WITH GAVIN COULTHARD)
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/
COLLECTORS’ FAIR: Sunday 2nd November, Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW. The UK’s largest flea fair, 7.30am2.30pm. Ideal for salvage hunters, crafters, upcyclers etc. Admission £6.00, under 16s free.
THE GREAT TRAIN
ROBBERY: Saturday 8th November, The Old Baptist Chapel, Church
Street, Tewkesbury. 11am. A presentation by Ian Boskett in aid of the John Moore Museum. Tickets £5. Call 01684 297174 or email education@ johnmooremuseum.org
WINCHCOMBE
GARDENING CLUB: Wednesday 19th November, Abbey Fields Community Centre, 7pm. Composting - a
talk by Wendy Rowley. More information from visitwinchcombe.co.uk
A JOURNEY BACK IN TIME: Saturday 29th
November, Memorial Hall, Old Street,Uptonupon-Severn WR8 0HA. Doors open 6pm, Show Starts 7pm. A pictorial presentation by Ian Boskett, with additional material by Rupert Chambers, marking 73
years to the day since the last passenger train ran between Uptonupon-Severn to Great Malvern. Refreshments, raffle and display of artefacts and photographs. Proceeds to the Tudor House Museum, Upton-upon Severn. Booking essential, £5 cash only. Call 07974 148 725 or email rupert.chambers 47@gmail.com
CHELTENHAM
CHRISTMAS GIFTS AND ARTS & CRAFTS
MARKETS: Friday 12th
December - Monday 22nd December, in the Promenade, GL50 9SA. Festive atmosphere with
a variety of stalls offering Christmas Gifts, handmade arts and crafts, homeware, food and drink from local artisans and producers.
More events on page 58
in Ground
SAT 1st NOV: Moscow Drug Club. The Market Theatre, Market Street Ledbury HR8 2QA themarkettheatre.com
TUES 4th NOV: Boo Hewerdine and Reg Meuross. The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
Test your powers of recall with this month’s Pub Quiz.
1: What was the name of the second president of the United States, who was in office 17971801?
2: Rising in the Massif Central and draining into the Atlantic, which is the longest river in France?
WED 5th NOV:
Open Celtic Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
WED 5th NOV: Jazz at The Fox - guest pianist Rich Hughes and singer Penny Powell, Fox & Hounds, Bredon GL20 7LA foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
THURS 6th NOV: Talon (Eagles Tribute). The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 8th NOV: Hereford Big Band. The Market Theatre, Ledbury HR8 2QA themarkettheatre.com
3: Which British band’s members include Will Champion, Guy Berryman and Jonny Buckland?
4: Which club has won the most English Rugby Union Premiership titles?
5: Which actress played the Dowager Countess of Grantham in the Downton Abbey TV series and films?
THURS 13th NOV: Phil Beer. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 15th NOV: The Counterfeit Stones. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
WEDS 19th NOV: The Dragon Folk Club with guest Mike Weaver. The Dragon Inn, The Tything, Worcester WR1 1JT (Music starts 7.30pm)
TUES 18th NOV: John Boden & Eliza Carthy’s Wassail. Huntingdon Hall, Crowngate, Worcester WR1 2ES. worcestertheatres.co.uk
WED 19th NOV: Open Mixed Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
Homemade Minestrone Soup served with a cheese crouton
Smoked Salmon filled with cream cheese ~ Prawn Cocktail
Homemade Duck and Orange Paté with French toast
Mains
Roast Turkey and all the trimmings
Seabass in a lemon butter sauce ~ Roasted Vegetable Tart 6oz Fillet Steak (£5.00 surcharge)
Roger’s homemade Steak and Stilton Pie
Desserts
Lyn’s homemade Christmas Pudding ~ Cheesecake
Limoncello Pavlova Roulade ~ Mixed Fruit Winter Crumble
Chocolate Orange Marquise served with Creme Anglaise (made with raw egg) ~ Cheese and Biscuits (£2.50 surcharge)
To finish -Tea/Coffee ~ Mints
£5.00 deposit per person required. Menu available 1st - 24th Dec. Closed Christmas Day Wed 19th November in aid of the Lily Mae Foundation. £10 per team of four. 7.30pm start.
13th
6: In cookery, which sauce comprises milk, flour, butter, salt, pepper and a pinch of nutmeg?
George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
WED 3rd DEC: Open Celtic Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
WED 3rd DEC:
Jazz at The Fox - guest pianist Dave Newton and singer Penny Powell, Fox & Hounds, Church Street, Bredon GL20 7LA foxandhoundsbredon.co.uk
SAT 6th DEC: Budapest Café Orchestra. The Market Theatre, Ledbury HR8 2QA themarkettheatre.com
SAT 6th DEC: Churchdown Male Voice Choir’s Christmas Crackers. The Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
SAT 22nd NOV: Nik KershawMusings and Lyrics. The Town Hall, Imperial Square Cheltenham GL50 1QA cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
MON 24th NOV: Ward Thomas. The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
WED 26th NOV: Bad Manners 50th Anniversary Christmas Party. The Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
FRI 28th NOV: Duke Special. The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
SUN 30th NOV: The Roses Choir Christmas Concert. The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SUN 30th NOV: Martin Barre and friends. The Sub Rooms,
MON 8th DEC: Steeleye Span. The Sub Rooms, George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
THURS 11th DEC: Swing from Paris. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SUN 14th DEC: Tewkesbury Town Band Christmas Concert. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
THURS 18th DEC: Buddy Holly & The Cricketers (Tribute). The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
SAT 20th DEC: The Beat. The Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
2025
tewkesburyhistory.org
family run Italian Restaurant
& CURTAINS
DAYTIME DANCESwith Cate and George. George. The next Daytime Dance date is Tuesday 11th November at The Watson Hall, Barton Street (GL20 5PX), from 1.00pm-4.00pm. All are welcomedancers and spectators! Free tea, coffee, fruit and biscuits.
TEWKESBURY
REPAIR CAFÉ - Held monthly in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm, next session Saturday 18th October. 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.
FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - next meeting at The Cross House (back room), Monday 17th November 7.30pm
TEWKESBURY
NATURE RESERVECheck all upcoming events on the website or email 3w@tewkesburynaturereserve. org.uk for details. Volunteer Days: Come and get involved on the reserve! Working parties occur twice a month, with cups of tea provided. Email: volunteers@tewkesburynaturereserve.org. uk for information.
Community Gardening Group (monthly) - Weds 12th Nov, 1pm. Learn new skills and meet people, through taking care of Tewkesbury’s community outdoor spaces. Book via email. Wildlife Protectors Club (fortnightly) New members still be accepted to the free afterschool group for children aged 5-11. This group aims to help children grow in confidence while connecting to the outdoors. Request info via email.
TEWKESBURY DEMENTIA ACTION ALLIANCE - (a group of caring people and professionals - there to listen, offer support and sign-post you to support where possible). Hosting a free and friendly informal drop-in for anyone who wants to talk about Dementia, Thursday 27th November, 3.00pm-
5.30pm at Tewkesbury Library.
STONEHILLS COMMUNITY GROUPIf you live on the estate, please get in touch with catecody99@gmail.com
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - for more information please visit the website www.gloucestershire recycles.com
GDASS(Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service) Contact the helpdesk on 01452 726570 or email support @gdass.org.uk. The GDASS 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.
BABY AND CHILDREN’S MARKET RETURNS TO THE WHEATPIECES
Little Shopers Baby and Children’s market is back at the Wheatpieces Community Centre next month.
The nearly-new sale will offer a selectioon of clothing, toys, books, chairs, prams and much more from a variety of stalls.
There’s also an oportunity to book your own stall and tunr your pre-loved items into cash at the market, which takes place from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday 29th November.
For further information, go to the website www.littleshoppers.co.uk
Restoring the rails to Toddington
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway has restored nearly 15 miles of the Great Western main line between Cheltenham and Broadway. TheOriginally opened in 1906, closed in 1976 with restoration starting in 1984, the heritage line today attracts around 100 000 visitors a year. In a talk for
Tewkesbury Museum, to mark the railway volunteer Mark Jones presents his personal perspective on the story of the line so far. “The personal perspective bit is because, were it not for a romantic meeting on a rural GWR line in North Wales 100 years ago, I wouldn’t be here!” says Mark. So, to catch the story of the fall
and rise again of the GWSR, with an amorous interlude, the place to be is:
Tewkesbury Baptist Church, Station Road, Tewkesbury GL20 5DR. Departure 7PM, Tuesday 25th November. Tickets £4 including tea & cake in the buffet. Card or cash. Pay on day.
MARTINS MEATS BUTCHERY EXPANDS – NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS ORDERS!
Just five months after opening their new cutting plant, butchery outlet in Toddington, Martins Meats has expanded the shop to meet growing demand from the local community.
The shop proudly offers dry-aged Longhorn beef from Martin Gilder’s own herd and herds from surrounding areas, alongside a wide range of premium meats including dry-aged pork and Bacon, lamb, steaks, chops, sausages, and mince – all expertly prepared on-site.
Now Taking Christmas Orders! This festive season, take advantage of fantastic savings on both Standard and Luxury Christmas Hampers, plus a wide selection of individual cuts and bulk-buy meat packs. Martin says: “We’ve got everything you need for delicious Christmas
cooking – from turkey and duck, to Dryaged Ribs of Beef, to our new range of ready-to-cook meals including Beef Wellington, homemade meatballs, and our special recipe sausages.
We also offer a loyalty card scheme, and we’re proud to be running monthly charity meat raffles too. Pop in and see us – we’re all about proper meat, direct from the Farm, at sensible
prices with unbeatable flavour!”
Visit us at Toddington, or we can deliver directly to you.
Pre-order now for Christmas – stock up early and save!
WI NEWTOWN CAN ALL DO ONE THING FOR NATURE
In October, we heard from Beth how Tewkesbury Nature Reserve, a charity, encourages local Communities, as individuals, to just Do One Thing, to help conserve nature, recycle, preserve wildlife, reduce consumption, encourage enjoyment and appreciation of our environment, and of course to investigate and appreciate the 10-year-old Nature Reserve on our doorstep. Everything you see there is intended to encourage more wildlife. Please keep your dog on a lead!
But, beware of commercially biased or misleading information about conservation. A happy free-range chicken has a bigger carbon
footprint than a caged one, but at what cost?
The “recycle triangle” means only that the maker supports recycling - but the item may not be recyclable. Ask
Tewkesbury Borough Council when in doubt.
Our next meeting, in-
cluding our AGM, will be on 12th November 2025, at Wheatpieces Community Centre at 2pm. You ladies are all welcome to join us and take part in the quiz.
Contact Julie on 01684 301267 or email PullenJ53@Sky.com
Shot Blasting & Powder Coating
High quality metalwork preparation and tough protection
• Fabrications • Automotive
• Restoration • Upcycling
• Industrial & Commercial Contract Work Powder coating offers durability, resists chipping, scratching and wear.
MB Finishings, Unit 7, Alpha, Toddington, Cheltenham GL54 5EB
An enlightened approach to professional legal services
Established over 40 years in Bishop’s Cleeve
We are able to provide the following legal services:
Commercial Property - Residential Conveyancing
Probate/Wills/Lasting Powers of Attorney Court of Protection
Laburnum Cottage , 20 Church Road, Bishops Cleeve , Cheltenham.
Telephone: 01242 676224
The Consulting Suite , Basepoint Business Park, Tewkesbur y.
Telephone: 01684 276469
www.billinghamandpartners.co.uk
Regulated and Authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority 47095
Christmas in Bishops Cleeve
Once again, Bishops Cleeve will celebrate Christmas with three events. On the 22nd November, the Christmas lights, organised by the Chamber of Commerce for over twentyfour years will be switched on at 5.30pm in Church Road.
This year, Olaf will switch on the lights, the event is now jointly organised by the Parish Council and the Chamber of Commerce, with full participation by the businesses in Church Road.
With entertainment, a Christmas Market, and a fun fair, it will be a fun day. It is intended to continue entertainment into the evening. There will be the first visit by Father Christmas- be sure not to miss the visit to the shops in Church Road and the festivities in Badham Pharmacy.
On the 29th November from 2.00 pm there will be an exciting “Christmas on the Green”. Come along to Bishops Drive where there will be entertainment all afternoon with a return visit by Father
Christmas supported by his Elves. This event, organised by Bishops Cleeve Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce is supported by Rooftop and the Parish
the Green will be organising Face Painting Fun and Games. Be sure not to miss the Alpacas who will be present throughout the afternoon.
Council.
With Music from DJ Sparky and Tewkesbury Town Band. The afternoon will be full of Children’s entertainment. A funfair for younger Children and food from Candy Floss to Oriental and Traditional Hot Dogs. The Businesses on
On Sunday14th December in the evening, Bishops Cleeve Rotary Club will be organising the Santa Sleigh run, from the Village through Homelands and Cleevelands- look out for the Sleigh and the Elves. By David Billingham President Bishops Cleeve Chamber of Commerce.
INTRODUCING THE BRAND NEW RANGE OF WORCESTER BOSCH CLIMATE 3000I REVERSIBLE AIR CONDITIONING UNITS
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■ All engineers employed by company and all C.R.B. checked ■ Hundreds of Worcester boilers installed locally, both oil and gas
■ Approved insurance works carried out
■ Based in Tewkesbury with offices in Northway
■ Many primary spare parts carried by engineers for boiler breakdowns
Tewkesbury Brewing Company Open New Tap Room
A brand new meeting place has opened to the public at the Tap Room owned by the Tewkesbury Brewing Company, Unit 29, Highfield Business Park, Tewkesbury, GL19 4BP.
Owner Daryll Tanner, set up the Brew House and has been creating his own award winning cask ales which he has supplied to local hostelries.
Now Daryll has opened a tap room serving popular ales including The Tewkesbury Pale Ale 4.5%, Fifty 5%, and Dark Knight 4.8% abv, and public opening is on Saturdays 12noon til 6pm.
At the recent Gloucestershire Brewery Challenge, sixteen local Brewers vied for the top selling brew, the Tewkesbury Brewing
Company took the first place in the competition.
Daryll offers a warm welcome to real ale lovers to pop in and try his ales, the brew house is conveniently situated on the number 41 and 71 Tewkesbury to Cheltenham bus routes.
• Christmas decorations, lights & cards
• Seasonal houseplants & amaryllis
• Seasonal home-grown bedding plants
• Filled hanging baskets & containers
• Trees, shrubs & hedging plants
• Autumn lawn, plant & garden care
• Containers, compost & gravels
• Wild Bird feed, feeders & tables
Gretton Road, Gotherington GL52 9QY
Open - Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm Sunday: 10am-4pm 01242 676722 www.gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk
The
Discover the Court of King Arthur and the Magic of Merlin as you embark on an illuminated adventure around the spectacular grounds of Sudeley Castle. Follow the enchanting new trail - now in its 10th year!
Discover the Court of King Arthur and the Magic of Merlin as you experience this wondrous after-dark adventure around Sudeley’s magical castle grounds. Meet mythical characters from the Arthurian legend such as Guinevere, Lancelot and the magician, Merlin.
FLASHBACK TO TWYNING SUMMER VILLAGE FETE
The celebrations began on August Bank Holiday Saturday with the fantastic Twyning Bash.
Sunday morning saw the church service held in the marquee, followed by a record turnout of classic cars on show. Then, the very first Twyning Soapbox
Derby! Eight brave competitors (including an incredible 88-year-old racer) took on the track to the delight of the crowd.
Winners & Awards
• Fastest Time (Adult) –James Savage (27.49 sec)
• Fastest Time (Junior) – Tennis the Menace,
Severn Unit MVS Attend Emergency Services Show 2025
Both the Deputy Head of Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service Russ Davidson and the Unit’s Head of Engineering David Wilson attended this year’s Emergency Services Show held at the NEC in Birmingham on 17th & 18th September which is the showcase for over 500 exhibitors.
Davidson said “During our visit we had the opportunity to look round the exhibition which hosts groundbreaking innovations and new technologies in the field of emergency response and public safety.”
David Wilson also commented “We made many contacts during the day at this premier European event and were pleased to support and assist Andy Smith RVO Central England at the MVS Stand”
Will Morley (31.30 sec)
• Highest Fundraising –Men’s Shed 1, driven by John Wescott
• Best Costume – Valhallah, driven by the Super Mario Sisters
• Most Creative Kart –Valhallah, driven by the Super Mario Sisters
• Best Engineered Kart – Savage, driven by James Savage
• Spirit of the Event – Pucker Up, driven by Lily Orgee & Beth Condie (Junior)
On Monday, it was time for our traditional fete and car boot sale. Families and friends enjoyed an afternoon in the sunshine, with entertainment from the Rock Choir, plus favourites like the Egg Throwing and the Scarecrow
Competition. Funds raised will go towards upgrading our much-loved village play area.
By Lorna Herold.
Quality Alteration
Professionals
Prom Dresses, Wedding Dresses, Skirts, Jackets, Suits, Shirts, Curtains and all leather garments.
We can pick up items to be altered from you and return to your door when completed, within the Tewkesbury area.
Open Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4pm Saturdays 9.30am - 1pm
We are within Monarch Dry Cleaners 8 Mitton Way, Tewkesbury. GL20 8AN Tel: 07379 152212 tewkesburytailoring@gmail.com Find us on Facebook ~ Tewkesbury Tailoring
OUR PHARMACY IN CHURCH ROAD, BISHOPS CLEEVE IS OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR
We offer a range of services including the new Minor Ailment Service.
We can supply free of charge, subject to criteria, a range of treatments for coughs, colds, eye infection, constipation etc.
Don’t suffer, pop in and see us.
Badham Pharmacy
23 Church Road Bishops Cleeve Tel 01242 672653
m Severn Unit Head of Engineering David Wilson, RVO Central England Andy Smith, Visitor Kevin Quartley a former Bristol City Councillor and Deputy Head of Severn Unit Russ Davidson.
TEWKESBURY ART SOCIETY
There will be a demonstration of an acrylic landscape by Brandon’s Murals to the members of Tewkesbury Art Society. To take place in the Town Hall, High Street, Tewkesbury on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 from 10.00am to 12pm. Non-members very welcome - entry fee £5. Refreshments available during the interval.
Including: Professional, home, tooth whitening, from Whitewash Laboratories.
Composite bonding, porcelain veneers and crowns including realignment of teeth with Invisalign, so you look healthy, and can smile with confidence again.
A great new Specialist Auction for Retro Car and Antique fans gets off to a flying start
The first Automobilia, Retro Auction hosted by FM Hutchings Commercial Auctioneers drew crowds of buyers, faced with hundreds of interesting old and rare items!
The world of nostalgia has grown significantly, and items recently unearthed, appear regularly at salerooms, attracting the attention of buyers nationally.
The October sale had a large number of sought after and vintage vehicles, cars, vans, motorcycles and scooters, bids were made in person or online at www. easyliveauctions.com
Auctioneer Finley Hutchings said “It was great to see the good turnout, and the fantastic lots that sellers had brought to us. It is time now for digging around in the shed, attic or garage to find that item that someone will love. Bring it in to us for one of our specialist sales.”
FM Hutchings, Commercial Auctions, Unit A Eastwick Garage, East-
MITTON W.I.
Following a new skill, macrami, learnt during the September meeting, October’s meeting was a little more ‘relaxing’ as we were visited once again by Ian Boskett.
His talk and slides were all about The Good Old Days (with a few trains thrown in). We were reminded of how our town once had two train stations and Ian’s hunt for their whereabouts, and what can still be seen around Tewkesbury. Many thanks to Ian once again for a wonderful talk. November’s meeting will be our AGM, and new officers are needed to bolster our committee. December is the Christmas party. Our committee are presently putting together the new programme of events for next year and this will be revealed in December or January.
Mitton W.I. meet at Marina Court 7.30pm every first Monday of the month (unless bank holiday). All welcome so come along and join us.
If you would like more information please ring 01684 292385, Mitton-WI@gmail.com or look for Mitton WI on Facebook.
wick Drive Cheltenham Road (turning By the Post Office), Evesham WR11 2LG.
Winter concert spans Baroque to Classical period
Tewkesbury Choral
The concert will be in Tewkesbury Abbey on Saturday 6th December, at 7.30pm.
It begins with Charpentier's setting of the Te Deum, the great hymn of praise which has inspired many composers.
Charpentier's version begins with an orchestral prelude, which has become familiar in a very different context, because it was selected as the signature tune for the Eurovision Song Contest.
The second choral work of the evening is the Harmoniemesse, Haydn's final and finest setting of the Mass. It is the last work that he completed and was composed in 1802, shortly before his death.
Between the two choral works is the famous Music for the Royal Fireworks, which was written by Handel and commissioned by King George II to celebrate the end of the War of the Austrian Succession.
It was first performed in April 1749 by a large band of wind instruments to an enthusiastic audience in London's Green Park, a very different venue and acoustic from Tewkesbury Abbey.
The concert will be
directed by John Holloway, and Tewkesbury Choral Society will be joined by five soloists and Regency Sinfonia.
Tickets are £20 (students £10, children and carers free) and are available from the Tewkesbury Abbey Shop (call 01684 856148), Alison’s Bookshop in Tewkesbury High Street, (telephone 01684 274600), on-line from ticketsource (scan the QR code) or at the door on the evening.
More details are available on the website www.tewkesburychoral. org.uk/concerts
CHRISTMAS AT COTSWOLD FARM
PARK: Fri 21st NovTues 23rd Dec. Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power. GL54 5FL. Father Christmas and the spirit of Christmas, with twinkling lights, crafts etc. Details and tickets cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk
LEDBURY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCHON: Sunday 23rd November, 2pm-8pm. Festive event in the High Street. Details from ledburytown council.gov.uk
A NIGHT AT THE DARTS: Fri 28th Nov, Cheltenham Racecourse, GL50 4SH. An all star line-up for an evening of world-class darts plus raffles and a DJ. Details and tickets thejockeyclub.co.uk
PERSHORE GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE: Fri 28th and Sat 29th November. Carnival procession and Christmas lights switchon on the Friday, plus late night shopping. Live entertainment, stalls and festive market in Broad Street and Church Street on the Saturday. Details from pershorechristmas fayre.co.uk
SKETCHES FOR SURVIVAL: until 16th November, Nature in Art Museum & Art Gallery,
Wallsworth Hall, Twigworth, GL2 9PG. A special exhibition at the gallery dedicated to fine and decorative art inspired by nature. Details and opening times from natureinart.org.uk
CHRISTMAS AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS: Events in November & December, 10am-8pm, GL2 5RG. Festive markets, shopping, dining and an ice rink. Details gloucesterquays.co.uk
CIRENCESTER
ADVENT MARKET: Sat 29th & Sun 30th November. 200 stalls selling food, drink and gifts in the Market Place and Cricklade Street. Trees in the church.
REMEMBRANCE
WORCESTER
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE: Thurs 4th - Sun 7th
Dec. Around 200 stalls with local arts, crafts, produce, gifts and street food. Street entertainers including Victorian characters, musicians and stilt walkers. Fairground rides. More information from worcesterchristmas fayre.co.uk
SANTA & SOFT PLAY EVENINGS: Fridays 12th & 19th December, All Things Wild Zoo, Honeybourne WR11 7QZ. Fun and festive evenings and the family friendly zoo near Evesham Details and tickets available from allthingswild.co.uk
DAY: SUNDAY 9th NOVEMBER
After the service at The Cross in Tewkesbury, why not meet up at the Black Bear Inn? There will be a free drink for all service and ex-servicemen and women, plus singing from the Tewkesbury Pub Singers.
TREE
WHAT’S ON IN THE MIDLANDS
UTILITA ARENA, BIRMINGHAM
8 Nov: John Bishop
20 Nov: Lorde
21 Nov: JLS
3 Dec: Stereophonics utilitaarenabham.co.uk
NEC BIRMINGHAM
7-9 Nov: The Classic Motor Show
12-13 Nov: To The Moon 12-16 Nov: Festive Gifts 22-23 Nov: Festival of Railway Modelling www.thenec.co.uk
EVERYMAN
THEATRE CHELTENHAM
9 Nov: Ross Noble 4-8 Nov: Inspector Morse 11-16 Nov: The Christmas Carol Goes Wrong everymantheatre.org.uk
THE MARKET
THEATRE, LEDBURY 22 Nov: Frankenstein 27 Nov: Done to Death themarkettheatre.com
