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THE COUNTY’S FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION SINCE 1950

JANUARY 2024 £3.95

ROYAL REWARD

Groups hailed for work in community

HISTORIC HAUL

Behind the scenes at museum service

ANIMAL MAGIC

9 770037 439654

Artist inspired by nature

WONDER OF WEAVING CONTINUING AN ANCIENT CRAFT

ESTABLISHED 1950 Grosvenor House, Central Park, Hollinswood Road, Telford TF2 9TW

JANUARY 2024

The Shropshire Magazine has a controlled, selected distribution in Shropshire towns, and is available for sale from many retail outlets and by subscription EDITOR Caroline Jones caroline.jones@mnamedia.co.uk 01952 241461 FEATURES EDITOR Vicki Jones vicki.jones@mnamedia.co.uk 01902 319851

NEWS EDITOR Andy Richardson FEATURE WRITERS Heather Large heather.large@mnamedia.co.uk Daniel Morris daniel.morris@mnamedia.co.uk Matthew Panter matthew.panter@mnamedia.co.uk EDITORIAL AND SOCIAL DIARY heather.large@mnamedia.co.uk 01902 319501 ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER Clare Weaver clare.weaver@mnamedia.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT SALES Alison Jukes alison.jukes@mnamedia.co.uk 01952 241339 DISTRIBUTION, SALES & SUBSCRIPTIONS 0800 174064 CONTRIBUTORS Ed Thomas Richard Williams Aiden Schwarzer PUBLISHED BY MNA Media, Telford PRINTED BY Precision Colour Printing, Halesﬁeld, Telford

www.shropshiremagazine.com

FEATURES SELECTION Animal magic

All aboard

On the cover

Royal reward

Behind the scenes

Heather Large meets an artist whose love of wildlife has led to a successful business

An artisan who has learned ancient techniques to craft amazing basketry sculptures from natural materials chats to Heather Large

Daniel Morris makes a fascinating trip to Shropshire Museums Service

Daniel Morris learns about plans for the ﬁrst Winter Steam Gala at Severn Valley Railway

The hard work of county groups has been recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Heather Large and Richard Williams ﬁnd out more

Scenic Shropshire

Matthew Panter chats to the ramblers hoping to inspire county walkers with a new book

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS The Flying Pig. Photo: Alan Corﬁeld

43 56

Music icon

Recipe for success

Andy Richardson enjoys a conversation with Pete Waterman about a new musical

Heather Large meets the head chef that has worked her way up from pastry chef to the top job at Weston Park

Food&drink

Ed Thomas ﬁnds out more about a small Shropshire distillery that is aiming to challenge convention

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

59 72

Trust treasure

Andy Richardson take a look at the history of Attingham Park, the stunning National Trust property near Shrewsbury

Social scenes

Guests gather at the Blood Bike Ball fundraiser and High Sheriﬀ Mandy Thorn reﬂects on a busy month

Travel

Lauren Taylor discovers that Jamaica is the perfect location for a winter sun escape

102 Motoring

Jack Evans puts the new electric Peugeot 308e SW through its paces

104 Nostalgia

Heather Large looks back at winter scenes from years gone by across the county

110 What’s on

From tribute acts to ﬁlm screenings, musical performances and pantomimes there is plenty going on this month 5

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Artist Hollie Childe proudly displays some of her work, which focuses mainly on wildlife and specialist pet portraits, at her studio in Bridgnorth

HOLLIE’S ARTWORK IS ANIMAL MAGIC HEATHER LARGE MEETS A WATERCOLOUR ARTIST WHOSE LOVE OF WILDLIFE HAS BECOME A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

rom farmyard animals to our native wildlife, capturing the natural beauty that can be found all around us is Hollie Childe’s

passion. Continually inspired by the Shropshire countryside, the watercolour artist enjoys creating paintings that are full of life and have a whimsical feel. Being creative has always come naturally to the 29-year-old, who lives in Bridgnorth with her husband Joe and sixyear-old springer spaniel Pip. “I’ve always been interested in art and making things. It was something I did all through school. “When it came to doing my GCSEs and A-levels, it wasn’t really a choice, I

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

knew I would do art and design because it was what I loved to do,” says Hollie, who graduated from Lancaster University with a first class degree in fine art in 2015. Her studies gave her the opportunity to experiment with different artistic styles and after graduation Hollie moved to Manchester. All of her spare time, when she wasn’t working at John Lewis, was dedicated to drawing and painting in her home studio. A life-long love of animals meant it was only natural that they would become the focus of her work. “I grew up with pets and animals have always been close to my heart. “I feel lucky to have combined my compassion for art with my love of

animals – I couldn’t be a vet I’m too squeamish,” says Hollie. When Hollie began sharing photographs of her wildlife-inspired creations on social media, they soon started attracting attention and it wasn’t long before she started receiving commissions. As demand for her paintings grew, she took a leap of faith in July 2016 and left her retail job to become a self-employed professional artist. Around four years later Hollie and Joe returned to their home county of Shropshire. Since then, Hollie has continued to take inspiration from the rural landscape and worked tirelessly on her business. As well as creating original artwork, she also takes on commissions, specialising in unique pet portraits. “Through each painting, I aim to capture the individual character and personality of the animal,” explains Hollie, who attended Bridgnorth Endowed School. Her designs are available as prints as well as on a wide range of products including greetings cards, tablemats and coasters, worktop savers, keyrings and calendars. Hollie’s artwork has also been transformed into eye-catching fabrics and she has joined forces with her mum Lisa Childe who runs her own sewing business, Tottie’s Craft, to offer a range of handmade homewares from lampshades and cushions to buntings and nursery sets. As well as selling directly from her website, Hollie attends markets and fairs, which in the run-up to Christmas included events at Apley Farm Shop and in Ludlow. She has exhibited at major events such as the Great Yorkshire Show, Royal Three Counties and The Royal Cheshire Show. Her work can also be found stocked in shops, including The Petal Bar in Bridgnorth, and on the walls of pubs such as The Cross Keys, Kinnerley, and The Fighting Cocks in Stottesdon, Worcestershire. There is no such thing as a typical day for Hollie, because running her own business means there is always a wide variety of tasks to be completed from working on new paintings to packing orders, ordering supplies and dealing with administration tasks. Finding time to go for a walk with her dog Pip, potter around the garden or do some baking is also very important to her as she says this helps fuel her creativity. “I’ve always loved being in nature and being out in the garden. Just going for a walk with my dog can inspire me. “I like the little moments that I notice like a little fern that is curled up or a toadstool or chance sightings of wildlife. 8

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

“I always feel calmer when I’m in nature, you can get out of your head and there are so many beautiful things to find. “It helps me to feel creative,” she explains. While she is out walking, Hollie might take a photograph of anything that catches her eye. She then combines the scene or detail she has captured with her own imagination and memories in her paintings. “I usually know the main elements I want in a painting and then I will start filling in all of the little details or chance sightings of wildlife. “I love badgers so I always put them in my paintings, and lots of pheasants and hedgehogs. “Sometimes it can take a few hours and other times, I might go away and come back to it,” explains Hollie. One of her favourite paintings is The Little Hazel Wood which was inspired by woodland she found during a walk with Pip and features an array of wildlife including a fox, owl, badger and robin. “It means a lot to me because I had the scene in my head for a long time before I painted it. I filled the whole page and created this little woodland world. “One day I would love to do a book. It’s also one of my most popular

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

paintings,” explains Hollie. Although being self-employed can be challenging at times, she is proud of what she has achieved since turning her dream into reality. “It can be very hard work running it as a business, but I love painting and the creative stuff. I love the flexibility it gives me and meeting lots of lovely people. “When I first started it was hard putting myself out there and I had to trust that the right people would find me,”

says Hollie. Pip also plays a part in the business as every year he inspires a new Christmas card design. “Pip’s grown up with my business and every year he appears in Christmas card designs. He’s been to markets with me and my customers have got to know him too,” says Hollie. n For more information about Hollie’s artwork, visit www. holliechildeart.com

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DAISY’S WEAVING WILLOW WONDERS HEATHER LARGE CATCHES UP WITH A SHROPSHIRE ARTISAN WHO HAS LEARNED ANCIENT TECHNIQUES TO CRAFT AMAZING BASKETRY SCULPTURES FROM NATURAL MATERIALS

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

illow weaving has been part of British heritage for centuries. Daisy Askins first fell in love with this ancient craft five years ago and now creates sculptures and basketry using natural materials. In her studio at Maws Craft Centre in Jackfield, Ironbridge, she works mainly with vine, willow and wood. “Basket making is one of the oldest forms of crafts and it’s practised all over the world,” says Daisy. “We’re still using the same techniques that were used hundreds of years ago. I like being rooted in that tradition but also reimagining it in a contemporary setting.” The 31-year-old previously worked in landscape architecture and specialised in project managing heritage landscape restoration and community engagement projects, working across the UK with private and public sector organisations and grant funding bodies. Keen to spend more time outdoors, she started running craft and wellbeing projects for adults and children in the Wyre Forest. “I wanted to get out from behind the laptop and more into nature,” explains Daisy, who lives in Ironbridge. To learn the skills she needed to deliver the workshops, she attended short courses in a variety of crafts including willow weaving. “I fell in love with it,” she says. “The course was run by Sarah at Hopewood Baskets in Wyre Forest, she’s a professional basket maker.” Daisy threw herself into the craft, learning as much as she could and taking on a number of different projects. She is now studying at Westhope College, near Craven Arms, which offers City & Guide courses in Basketry Level 2 and also Basketry Level 3 – the latter is exclusive to the college. “Shropshire has quite a thriving basket making community and a lot of it is due

to Westhope College and the courses they offer,” explains Daisy. She has recently moved into a new studio – Vine Willow Wood – at Maws Craft Centre and says she is enjoying being part of a community of makers. “It’s really inspiring to be surrounded by some of the many craftspeople who make a living from what they can do with their hands,” adds Daisy. Although she primarily works with willow, Daisy also incorporates vines and

wood into her designs. She said: “My family luckily own a vineyard, Astley Vineyard in Worcestershire, and I use the grape vine prunings in some of sculptural and artistic projects. “There are two ways to work with willow. There is living willow which is harvested and rather than letting it dry, if the rods are planted in the ground as part of a sculpture, they will start to grow again. It’s great for pollinators. “We can also work with dried willow which is harvested and left to dry for a few months. Before you can work with it, the willow rods need to be soaked so they become pliable and flexible again. “The general rule is that it’s a day of soaking for every foot of length, so four feet would need four days. But willow is a natural material and it doesn’t always stick to the rules so it can take longer,” explains Daisy who sources her willow from the Somerset Levels but would love to grow her own willow one day. When she’s not working in her studio, Daisy gets involved in community projects and commissions. Earlier this year, she created a living willow sculpture in Lawley Community Garden as part of the King’s coronation celebrations. Daisy then went on to be awarded an JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

artist residency at the New Art Gallery Walsall as part of a commission with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust to create a sculpture trail in a park in Walsall. She is also involved in a a project with Bournville Village Trust to create a sculpture at the Squatters Cottage in Lightmoor to celebrate the wildlife and heritage of the area. And this winter, Daisy is also supporting a new community project right on her doorstep – restoring a withy bed in Ironbridge. The project is being led by Severn Gorge Community Trust, and is funded by the Green Communities Grant from Bupa Foundation and Groundwork. “Historically, every community would have had a withy bed – where willow was grown to make baskets and other structures,” she explains. “Withy beds would often be located along watercourses and land prone to flooding as willow thrives in these conditions unlike most other crops. “Withy beds would not only have been a vital community resource, but also provided a valuable habitat for local wildlife – known to support over 250 species of insects and birds.” Britain has lost the majority of its withy beds due to the decline in the local SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

basketry industry over the past 75 years. There are now only a handful of large scale commercial willow growers in the UK, mostly based on the Somerset Levels. However, there has been a resurgence in small scale willow growers in recent years, driven by basket makers who want to grow their own materials to use in their craft. “Severn Gorge Countryside Trust planted a willow bed in Ironbridge over twenty years ago, but over time, it has become unproductive, overgrown and neglected. It is very much a secret garden. So secret in fact, that I have been unknowingly walking and cycling past it for the past six years. I couldn’t quite believe it when it was revealed to me,” says Daisy. Over the coming months, Daisy will be working alongside Severn Gorge Countryside Trust to restore the withy bed, and raise awareness of the many uses and benefits of willow as a sustainable material and craft. This will include running regular volunteer work parties to improve access to the site, clear the overgrown vegetation, and lay a long length of hedge to bring much-needed light back to the bed. “We’ll be saving what willow coppice stools we can, and supplementing

them with new plantings so that we have a sustainable source of willow for community projects in the future,” says Daisy. Back in her studio, Daisy also runs a programme of workshops where she teaches people the tools and techniques of willow weaving. “There is something very relaxing and restorative about working with willow,” she says. “Maybe it’s because it’s a really repetitive technique. It’s very mindful. You have to absorb yourself in the craft. “There is something really satisfying about taking a pile of sticks and turning them into something that’s really beautiful and quite functional,” adds Daisy. Daisy is holding monthly open studio events offering visitors the chance to view a small selection of items for sale and information about her workshops and community projects. n For the full list of workshops and open studio events, visit www. vinewillowwood.co.uk for more information. Anyone interested in getting involved in the withy bed project, can contact Daisy at daisy@vinewillowwood.co.uk 13

PROPERTY

STUNNING ROW OF RURAL COTTAGES

unique row of eight rural Shropshire cottages, nine miles north of Shrewsbury, all refurbished to a high standard, plus a potential glamping site, has been launched to the market by Balfours. This superb investment opportunity is found in the pretty hamlet of Hopton, just north of Nesscliffe, where local services include primary school, renowned public house, post office and service station. Six of the picture-perfect cottages are finished in local beautiful Grinshill stone, framed with timber porches, achieving truly pleasing aesthetics.

The sixth cottage is a considerably larger property that has a separate dining room and a third bedroom. Close by is a brand new pair of semidetached cottages. They have the added benefit of roof solar panels and solid oak flooring throughout. Abigail Barker, Balfours associate partner, comments: “This is a unique investment opportunity. All have been recently refurbished, including new appliances, log burners and floor finishes, with carpet upstairs. They have achieved energy EPCs of between B and D. “The whole site extends to just over

an acre including ample parking and large communal gardens, together with a potential glamping site. “Hopton borders the stunning Nesscliffe Hills and Cliffe Countryside Heritage site of 70 hectares, with fabulous walks from woodland to heather ridges with breathtaking views across Shropshire,” Abigail adds. There are excellent road links, both to the North and to the Midlands. Balfours are marketing the cottages with a guide price of £1,650,000. For more information call Balfours on 01743 353511.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

FARMHOUSE WITH FLEXIBLE SPACE

oodgate Farm in Hope Bowdler is situated within an Area of Outstanding Beauty and offers hugely versatile accommodation. The main farmhouse comprises of four bedrooms with a two-bedroom adjacent barn conversion, set within 24 acres and including a range of substantial outbuildings. Marketed by Balfours, partner Scott Kemsley comments: “Woodgate Farm offers a hugely flexible package, both within the residential accommodation and outdoor facilities which includes a twoacre caravan park. “Its location is entirely at one with tourism, from holiday let to B and B, plus the caravan park. Conversely, the residential accommodation could provide annexed living for a dependent, or guests. “Meanwhile the outbuildings include a Dutch barn, agricultural barn and machine store, plus a workshop and double garage. The buildings open opportunities to hobby farming, equestrian activities, or a business requiring undercover space and storage, subject to planning,” Scott adds. The farmhouse itself comprises fourcharacter reception rooms, utility, pantry and boot room. There are four bedrooms, three with built-in storage and a family SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

bathroom. The attached annex comprises open plan living and dining space with log burner, plus a kitchen. There are two bedrooms, both en-suite on the first floor. Gardens are adjacent to the main house, while the land comprises seven paddocks, with the majority used for grazing, plus a delightful pool. Church Stretton is three miles, while Shrewsbury is 16 miles, with Ludlow a similar distance. Balfours are marketing Woodgate Farm with a guide price of £850,000. For more information call 01584 707100. 15

SOLD

Shrewsbury Shropshire

SOLD

Guide Price £1,500,000

Church Stretton Shropshire

Guide Price £1,300,000

A Grand Grade II Listed Georgian Townhouse which offers a Wealth of Period Features and Traditional Character.

An Impressive Three Bedroom House, Two Holiday Cottages, Outbuildings, Set in 43 Acres (17.40 Ha).

Six Bedrooms, Dining Room, Drawing Room, Formal Dining Room, Games Room, Large Garage with Workshop above, South Facing Garden.

AONB Location, Holiday Let Business, Permanent Pasture, Lakes and Woodland, Open-Plan Kitchen / Breakfast / Family Room, Large Barn, EPC D.

SOLD

Stretton Westwood Shropshire

SOLD

Guide Price £1,250,000

Burford

Tenbury Wells

Guide Price £865,000

A Three Bedroom House with Unique Views overlooking a Privately Owned Lake, plus One Bedroom Annexe.

A Charming Country House with Double Garage and Studio set in approximately 2.22 Acres (0.90 Ha).

Landscaped Garden, 2.59 Acres (1.05 Ha), Three Reception Rooms, Two Bathrooms, Integrated Sound System, Double Garage and Outbuildings, EPC D.

Idyllic Location, High Speci�cation, Inglenook Fireplaces and Log Burners, Paddocks and Gardens, Potential Annexe, EPC� D.

UNDER OFFER

Somerwood �f�ngton

UNDER OFFER

Guide Price £5,500,000

Stourbridge Road Wombourne

Guide Price £1,800,000

A Quintessential English Country Estate comprising 345 Acres (139.62 Ha).

A 64 Acre (25.9 Ha) Estate set in an Elevated Position with Glorious Far-Reaching Views adjacent to Himley Park.

Excellent Location, Outbuildings, Farm, Equestrian, One Bedroom Annexe, Sales Farm Cottages, Far-Reaching Views, EPC: D.

�atural Capital Bene�ts, Environmental Haven, Annexe, Stables, Former Cattle Shed with Full Planning ��/��/F�L, EPC: F.

UNDER OFFER

Hillgates Hereford

Guide Price £800,000

Ludlow

Herefordshire

Guide Price £725,000

An Impressive Four Bedroom Country House with Views of the Wonderful Countryside.

A Charming Four Bedroom Cottage with Outbuildings in approximately 0.4 Acres (0.16 Ha) of Gardens.

Impressive House, Beautiful Views, Annexe / Studio, Large Garden, Dual Aspect Sitting Room, Four Bedrooms, EPC: E.

Idyllic Location, Garage / Workshop, Inglenook Fireplace with Log Burner, Garden Room, Potential Annexe, Barn, Large Gardens with Stream Frontage, EPC E.

IDYLLIC LOCATION

awthorn Barn, in Criftins near Ellesmere, is an immaculately presented two/three bedroom barn conversion in an idyllic, rural location. The property has 4.2 acres of land and is on the market with Jackson Property for offers in the region of £695,000. It is located just three miles from Ellesmere making it fabulously positioned for those looking for a rural property not far from amenities with several highly regarded schools in the area. Hawthorn Barn has immense charm and character with lots of period features throughout. It has a gravel driveway, leading to a substantial parking area.

The reception hall has Indian sandstone flooring and exposed wall and ceiling timbers. Off the hall is the dining room/third bedroom. The kitchen/breakfast room consists of a selection of wall and base units with granite work tops above. There is a central kitchen island and a range of integrated appliances. French doors lead out onto the patio area. There is also a utility room, downstairs cloakroom and a study. The spacious lounge has a log burner with sandstone hearth and patio doors leading onto the well-manicured lawns. Off the landing is the master bedroom which has a dressing room and an ensuite shower room. The next bedroom

is again of a good size and has a handy recessed wardrobe and an en-suite. To the front of the property is a sunken courtyard with a range of attractive shrubs, bushes and flower beds, a log store and a secure storage area. To the rear is an established private garden which comprises of mature flower beds, along with the delightful patio area. Off the parking area is a stable block consisting of two stables and a tack room to the side. Attached to the stables is a versatile Dutch barn with two bays. Around the back of the stable block is the 20m x 40m silica sand and Broxton Gallops premium fibre surface. The land is split into two paddocks.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Rural, Equestrian & Commercial Specialists

SALES | LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT | INVESTMENT | DEVELOPMENT

If you are looking to sell or let your property/land, or need advice on a range of professional matters, please call or use the QR code to visit our website

Richard Burton

Dora Prytherch

Gillon Crow

James Willis

Millie Hinds

Shropshire (Head Office) Franks Barn, Preston On Severn, Uffington, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 4TB 01743 709249

01948 666695

info@jackson-property.co.uk

www.jackson-property.co.uk

SPACIOUS HOME IN SOUGHT-AFTER SPOT

n exceptional opportunity awaits to make this exquisite self-built executive home your own. Mara Lodge, at Horton, is a detached masterpiece that graces a beautiful plot in a highly sought-after location, offering convenient access to both Telford and Newport. It is on the market with Prestige by Mannleys for offers in the region of £825,000. Mara Lodge, designed and crafted by the current owners, redefines contemporary family living with its flexible and modern spaces. The ground floor features a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining, and family room, complete with underfloor heating and French doors that open to the lush gardens. The kitchen area is a culinary delight, boasting a wide range of integrated appliances and a striking central island. For cosy evenings, the separate living room beckons with a log-burning stove, while the adjacent dining room, also with French doors to the garden, is perfect for formal gatherings. There is also a generously sized utility room, a ground floor WC, and an entrance hallway graced by a grand oak staircase. Upstairs, is a spacious principal

bedroom with an en-suite shower. There are two more generous double bedrooms, each with access to a Jack and Jill bathroom with both a bathtub and a separate shower cubicle. A fourth double bedroom has its own en-suite WC. Mara Lodge stands out with its extensive gated driveway, providing ample parking space, and a detached triple

garage. Above the garage is a spacious room, which could serve as an ideal annex or home office. The property’s delightful rear gardens are beautifully landscaped, offering a serene retreat. Modern comforts include gas central heating and double glazing. An inspection is essential to appreciate the merits of this wonderful family home. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

BOOLEY HOUSE BARNS BOOLEY, SY4 4LY OIEO £1,000,000

36 CRUDGINGTON CRUDGINGTON, TF6 6JG OIRO £625,000

Fantastic Development oppor tunity with planning and Grade II listed consent to conver t these beautiful barns in to five individual homes. Booley is a secluded hamlet and stands in the lovely Shropshire countr yside, with views to the south towards The Wrek in and Hawkstone Park to the nor th. The barns are existing having been constructed in the mid-nineteenth centur y. All of the conversions will benefit from a newly formed access separate to the existing access to Booley House.

A much improved detached four bedroom Duke of Sutherland cottage that occupies a stunning tucked away plot and is located in this highly sought af ter village location. The proper ty benefits from planning approval (planning reference T WC/2022/0746) for a stunning single storey ex tension with feature balcony. Views over open fields from the lovely landscaped south facing garden. EPC D

HADLEY PARK WINDMILL HADLEY PARK, TF1 6QJ OIRO £650,000

THE MAIZIES 35 DULWICH GRANGE BRATTON TF5 0ED OIRO £600,000

A remark able piece of histor y turned into a modern gem. This Grade II listed landmark offers panoramic 360° views, tracing its roots to a late 18th- centur y tower mill. Meticulously transformed by the current owners, it now stands as a five -stor y family home, seamlessly blending contemporar y living with the charm of its heritage. Original features, including remnants of machiner y powered by both wind and water, add a unique touch to this splendid residence.

A truly stunning five bedroom 2 storey detached proper t y situated in the ever popular, semi-rural area of Bratton. Beautifully presented throughout the proper ty occupies a superb tucked away plot and benefits from ex tensive driveway park ing and a detached double garage. EPC C

23a Market Street, Wellington, Telford, TF1 1DT 01952 245064 • prestige@mannleysproperty.co.uk

CONTEMPORARY HOMES WITH VIEW

ust released is this exclusive development of just three contemporary homes affording stunning views to the rear over adjoining countyside and hills. Each having been well thought out in design and offering spacious and versatile accommodation perfect for today’s modern lifestyle and being finished to an exceptional standard of specification, the homes in Porth-Y-Waen near Oswestry were designed by Shropshire’s awardwinning Ke-design. Plot 3 Kilnside is on the market with Monks with a guide price of £795,000. The homes will be finished to an

exceptional standard of specification and feature high efficiency insulation, double glazing, under floor heating throughout the ground floor and contemporary radiators to the first floor along with a choice of stunning hand-made kitchens, integrated appliances, sleek bath and shower rooms with complimentary tiling. Affording great space which is versatile to suit today’s modern lifestyle – perfect for a growing family, particularly its ground floor living space which features reception hall with full height ceiling, an impressive open plan living/dining/ kitchen, study/bedroom five and lounge with feature inglenook-style fireplace.

The galleried landing leads to the principal bedroom suite and guest bedroom, both of which have access to individual glazed balconies from which there are stunning views over open countryside to the Welsh Hills beyond. There are two further double bedrooms and a well-appointed family bathroom. Set in a good-sized garden, the property benefits from a large sun terrace, parking and double garage. The properties occupy an enviable position in this popular village just under five miles from the centre of Oswestry. There are good local facilities including schools and public houses.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Show home opening Select developments of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes

Ifton Green, St Martins, SY11 3DH Show Home open 27th & 28th Jan Phase II now released Prices from £260,000

The Wharf, Ellesmere, SY12 0GD View home open 20th & 21st Jan Prices from £225,000

The Oaklands, Bayston Hill, SY3 0PS View home opening mid Feb

In nterested? Call. 07890 573553 Email. judy@monks.co.uk Visit. monks.co.uk

Stone’s Wharf, Weston Rhyn Releasing soon A development of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes To register your interest call 01691 674 567

New year. New home. Stunning 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes available now Whitley Fields, Eaton upon Tern A stunning development of contemporary family homes Final 3 homes remaining Prices from £850,000

Whitley Fields is set in the heart of Eaton upon Tern, Shropshire, a much sought after, pretty rural village. It’s perfectly placed with easy access to Shrewsbury, Telford and the Potteries as well as the M54 and A49.

In nterested? Call. 07890 573553 Email. judy@monks.co.uk Visit. monks.co.uk

Open the door on 2024 Selling or renting in Shropshire, we have you covered

Judy

Patricia

Lucinda

Beth

James

Ethan

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PERIOD PROPERTY

his beautifully updated, period house in Berwick Road, Shrewsbury, enjoys wonderful views across the town and the Shropshire Hills beyond. It is on the market with Savills with a guide price of £675,000. Number 14 Berwick Road was built in the 1880s, and underwent extensive renovation and refurbishment in 2017, by the current owners. The front door, featuring original stained glass, opens into the carpeted reception hall dominated by the original oak staircase. The reception hall provides access to the beautiful library which has large sash windows with café-style shutters and an original working fireplace with very pretty ornate tiles. The drawing room, situated to the

rear of the house, has French doors opening onto the patio along with an open fireplace. The modern kitchen has a wonderful exposed brick inglenook with an integrated induction hob and a separate integrated oven. There is parquet oak flooring and wooden base units with Silestone worktops and a Belfast sink. The dining room leads off the kitchen, with fitted units and views overlooking the garden. A door leads outside to an enclosed utility area and a further door opens into the garden. On the first floor is the principal bedroom, with large sash windows and café-style shutters, with an adjacent nursery bedroom, currently used as a dressing room. There is also a family bathroom and a further double bedroom

with garden views on this level. A solid oak staircase leads to the second floor where there are two further double bedrooms, both with spectacular views, and one with an original Victorian oculus window. The stylish family bathroom on this top floor sports a large bath with garden views and a separate walk-in glass shower. There is a wonderful rear walled garden with a patio seating area and a further seating area and al fresco dining area at the top of the garden near the summer house. Raised beds and a lavender-edged pathway adds colour and substance to the beautiful garden along with a central lawn and the modern summer house which has bi-folding doors, electricity and WiFi. There is also a barbecue area.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Opulence and luxury

Architecturally designed

Newport, Shropshire

Clun, Shropshire

Fitted with an abundance of smart tech offering a fabulous and stylish home. Modern family home with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms. Walking distance of Newport town centre, There are a number of schools in the immediate area. Well located for the M54 motorway & Stafford Train Station.

Set amongst the glorious Shropshire countryside. 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, workshop, barn and studio, ideal for multigenerational living or holiday lets, subject to the correct planning permission, spectacular views over the Clun valley beyond.

Freehold | Council Tax Band = G | EPC Rating = C

Freehold | Council Tax Band = D | EPC Rating = E

4907 Sq Ft | Guide £1,300,000

About 6.02 acres | Guide £1,250,000

Peter Daborn

Head of Residential Shropshire 01952 239 500 peter.dabron@savills.com

Head of Residential Shropshire 01952 239 500 peter.daborn@savills.com

Ultimate lifestyle property

Modern family home

Cleobury North, Shropshire

Cockshutt, Shropshire

An outstanding, architecturally designed barn conversion with outbuildings and beautiful gardens. 5 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms. Renowned for being a popular location for walking in the Shropshire Hills and Brown Clee Hill, horse riding and cycling. Well positioned for access to Shrewsbury, Hereford and the south.

An exceptionally well-appointed double fronted 6 bed detached house. 6 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, finished to a high standard and sitting within wonderful landscaped gardens. Cockshutt has a fantastic range of local facilities including a village pub & post office. Double garage perfect for the car enthusiast, Ellesmere College is 5 miles away.

Freehold | Council Tax Band = F | EPC Rating = E

Freehold | Council Tax Band = G | EPC Rating = D

About 1.3 acres | Guide £1,100,000

3390 Sq Ft | Guide £875,000

Peter Daborn

Head of Residential Shropshire 01952 239 500 peter.daborn@savills.com

Newport 0.8 miles

Bridgnorth 7.2 miles

*pricing correct at the time of print

Craven Arms 9.7 miles

Ellesmere 4.7 miles

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

HOUSING MARKET PAST ‘PEAK PAIN’

Elms Farm, Clun, Guide Price £1,250,000

PETER DABORN, DIRECTOR AND HEAD OF RESIDENTIAL SALES AT SAVILLS IN SHROPSHIRE, GIVES US AN INSIGHT INTO THE LATEST FORECASTS FOR THE HOUSING MARKET

t’s been a rollercoaster of a year in the housing market, with rising interest rates and the increase in the cost of living making for a turbulent time, but the market in Shropshire and Staffordshire is still holding strong and there are still plenty of opportunities to sell for those who are realistic. Values appear to have held up better than expected in 2023 as mortgage markets settled over spring and autumn. According to Savills research, annual falls will stand at four per cent by the end of the year, which will leave values down a total of seven per cent since the autumn of 2022. Cash buyers have been the most active this year, with activity 3.5 per cent higher than the 2017-19 average. However, less activity among mortgaged buyers – most notably buy-to-let investors – means overall transactions are expected to be 20 per cent down on 2022. Savills is predicting the average UK house price to drop by a modest three per cent in 2024 as affordability pressures start to ease, with the expectation that the base rate will stand at 4.75 per cent by the end of the year. Here in the West Midlands we expect prices to perform better than the national 28

expectations, falling slightly by two per cent in 2024. This reflects the ongoing economic uncertainty and elevated interest rates. But even with that fall, house prices across the region will remain 19 per cent higher on average compared to the beginning of 2020. Looking ahead, the strength and depth of Birmingham’s economy, excellent schooling, planned infrastructure improvements and UK-wide connectivity means that there is more capacity for growth. Consequently, we expect the West Midlands to outperform the rest of the UK over the next five years, led by the equity-driven prime markets of Shropshire and Staffordshire. With the Bank of England expected to start cutting interest rates in the second half of 2024, this should give more capacity for growth from the end of next year – with our research forecasting prices in the West Midlands to grow by an average 19.6 per cent over the next five years. We are expecting sales numbers across the UK to remain at around 1 million in 2024, rising to 1.16 million by the end of 2028 – slightly below a pre-pandemic norm of 1.2 million. Here in Shropshire, in the period

between January and October of this year, the postcodes of Much Wenlock, Newport, Shrewsbury and their surrounding areas saw a 15.5 per cent increase in second hand homes priced above £500,000 being brought to the market, compared to the same period in 2022, according to data provider TwentyCi, demonstrating that market sentiment remains positive. So what does this all mean for those who are looking to move next year? Well, while the housing market appears to be past ‘peak pain’, putting your property on the market at the right price is paramount to a successful sale. Demand remains good for high quality property, especially from the downsizer market and cash rich purchaser. Those seeking a mortgage should start to see more competitive mortgage rates once interest rates start to reduce, and next year is a good time to look at your purchase options. n If you would like some advice on how the current market conditions may affect your move, do get in touch and we are always happy to provide advice and assistance. Call Savills on 01952 239 511 or email telford@savills.com JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

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INTERIORS 3

WOODLAND WONDER SAM WYLIE-HARRIS REVEALS HOW YOU CAN WEAVE SOME WOODLAND MAGIC INTO YOUR HOME WITH THESE PICKS

rom woodland walks to winter terraces this winter, the shorter days and longer evenings make you want to come home to a warm winter glow around the house with earthy tones and forest green furnishings. Along with cosy textiles and ambient candlelight, the starting point is often a themed tablescape before thoughts turn to an inviting sofa with statement scatter cushions to sink into. Here our experts demonstrate how to you can embrace the natural world by giving your home an exciting range of forest green homewares and rustic accents…

1. Check Printed Fleece Duvet Cover and Pillowcase Set, £16 – £27, Chevron Faux

Fur Throw, £40, rest of items from a selection, Dunelm. Team a cosy fleece in café au lait colours with moss green and moody mauve, topped with a faux fur throw… and you’ll be ready to snuggle up and slumber. 2. Pheasant Wool Cushion, £43, JJ Textile. An easy foundation piece for creating a cohesive country living look, this pheasant cushion loves an accent chair. 3. Burleigh Tableware: Green Asiatic Pheasants Collection, Green Asiatic Pheasants 17.5cm Plate, £22; Green Regal Peacock Collection, Green Regal Peacock Mini Tankard Jug, (160ml), £36; JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

8 9

rest of items from a selection, Burleigh. A flight of fancy brings the outdoors in with green pheasants and peacocks teamed with natural linens, seasonal décor and crystal stemware as clear as a calm stream. 4. Woodland Walks Candle, £21, (180g), Woodland Walks Diﬀuser, £30, Sophie Allport. A sure-fire way to recreate the earthy scents of woods and moss is to scent surround with candles and diffusers to bring the outside in. 5. Living County Fabric 4-Seater Split Sofa Scatter Back, Rodeo Tan/Win Chk Choc/Pan Bge/Sta Bge – Fabric, £1,199, SCS. When you want to luxe up your life – and living room – a new sofa can be a game-changer. Think warm tones to lift your space, complemented by stud detailing, hardwood feet and coordinating cushions to up the comfort level.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

6. Orla Kiely Larch Fabric Medium Sofa, £1,399 (was £1,729), rest of items from a selection, Barker And Stonehouse. Orla Kiely’s leaf-on-stem designs always hit the right note, and this sofa in a solid fir green solves the styling dilemma of how to mix-and-match your furniture… the chic, clean lines and satisfyingly soft cushioning make this an investment buy that goes with everything. 7. Green Acorn Lidded Mug, £15, National Trust. Sweater weather is all about cupping your hands round a warming mug of cocoa, with a cute lid to keep it piping hot. 8. Luxe Faux Fur Throw Olive, £65, Walton & Co. Take this luxe olive faux fur throw and drape it over an armchair to cosy up your world with nature’s favourite shade. 9. Matcha Bouquet, Medium Letterbox, £42, Cult Furniture. This mixed bouquet of eucalyptus and rich green foliage channels a biophilic

theme, and will lift a forgotten corner or sideboard. 10. Foxgloves! Lampshade, £65, Mountain & Molehill. With the clocks going back and shorter days on the horizon, lighting can make the biggest impact… providing the perfect centrepiece for country-style décor. 11. Woodland Creatures Oven Gloves, £30, Cherith Harrison. With hearty casseroles and comfort food at the top of winter warmer menus, a practical pair of oven gloves takes on a whole new light with woodland wildlife enriching mealtimes. 12. Rustic Metal Reindeer Tea Light Holders, £16 each, Marquis & Dawe. Taking inspiration from a Highland lodge, these tea light holders set the scene with two similar designs… one features a small village house nestled amongst the tall pines.

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GARDENING

STARRING ROLE FOR YOUR HOUSEPLANTS ASTROLOGISTS REVEAL HOW PLANTS AND ZODIAC SIGNS ALIGN WITH YOUR PERSONALITY

ave you ever wondered if there are particular houseplants to match your personality and star sign? “Inviting a plant into our home is a big decision, and choosing exactly which type of houseplant would best suit our space and lifestyle isn’t an easy task,” says celebrity psychic and astrologer Inbaal Honigman. Astrology can help us with picking the size, style and even colours of the best

plant for our house, she maintains. “Each star sign has its own special likes and dislikes around the home, and different skills in looking after their environment. Water signs are naturally caring and home-loving, whereas Fire signs are always out at some fabulous party. “Earth signs enjoy being surrounded by foliage, whereas Air signs favour a clear, uncluttered space,” she adds. Here, two psychics and astrologers suggest which houseplants may be right for your star sign.

Aries – Zanzibar gem

Also known as the ZZ plant, this low-maintenance choice would suit Aries personalities who are outdoorsy and active, with a hectic lifestyle, who don’t have spare time to pamper a plant when they are at home, says Honigman.

Taurus – Chinese money plant

Taurus is known for being stubborn, but as Taurus sits in the second house of astrology which rules possessions, and as an earth sign, tangible items can be important to the stubborn sign. The Chinese money plant is said to call in finances and possessions. The routine watering also serves the grounded Taurus well, as they like some structure

in their lives, suggests Julie Chandler, a psychic intuitive tarot reader and spiritual life coach, who uses the power of astrology in her readings.

Gemini – Calathea roseopicta

Sociable and chatty, Gemini is a sign that is always on the go and can often be quite forgetful. Those born under the sign of the twins love beauty and want something cute and colourful at home, perhaps not too big, and certainly not too delicate, advises Honigman.

Cancer – peace lily

Cancer is a water sign that is known for its family orientation, care and love with heightened emotions. Cancer is ruled by the moon, which is known to bring light to a room in the dark, and the perfect plant for this is the peace lily. Not only is it aligned with the emotional state of Cancers wanting calm and ease in their lives, it can also brighten up the darker corner of the home, just like the moon, Chandler maintains. As a water sign, Cancer benefits from a plant that needs regular watering as a reminder of continuous nurturing, she adds.

Leo – Calamondin orange

Leo is a bold and bright sign, that needs to make an impact and be the centre of the show, says Chandler. A talking piece JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

plant would make a great companion in the home is the Calamondin orange, also known as the Philippine lime or the acid orange. Letting it get direct sunlight – just like the centre stage Leo energy – and of course when socialising, who isn’t going to be amazed by an orange tree in the home? Leo will love this, she adds.

Virgo – orchid

Virgos are known to be great nurturers and love a good routine. The orchid, which needs regular maintenance, would make a great plant for the sign, its beautiful flower shows acting as a reminder and reward for the care given, which sits well with Virgo’s energy, says Chandler.

Libra – jasmine

Libra is an air sign ruled by the planet Venus. The planet of beauty and abundance can subtly affect Librans who would benefit from a fragrant bloomed plant such as Jasmine. The strong perfume smell and balanced care routine of the jasmine would work well with the Libra love of a balanced lifestyle, says Chandler.

Scorpio – Venus ﬂy trap

This intense, emotional sign enjoys an aesthetic that’s original and unexpected. Sharp edges and spikes excite those born under the sign of the scorpion, as they like a houseplant with a personality as sensual as theirs, suggests Honigman.

Sagittarius – Kentia palm

Sagittarius is known for its love of travel and independence, so a simple succulent would work well, Chandler reckons. Alternatively, if they have a good support system who can pop over in their

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

absence, the Kentia palms are a great plant to reflect their love for tropical climates, giving the easy-going vibe that Sagittarius can exude.

Capricorn – Jade

Capricorns are a stable and reliable energy but can be a little distant at times in personality. Often workaholics who are structured, their earth sign will love the jade plant, known to represent wealth and prosperity, says Chandler. This simple and straightforward, easy-to-care-for plant makes a great addition to their home. Slow-growing, it will suit Capricorn’s methodical approach to things, sharing a practical yet dependable energy.

Aquarius – Cacti

Aquarius are inquisitive and love to understand how things work, so a cactus will fascinate the eager mind of this air sign and make for easy care when they get distracted or absorbed into research or a new project. Aquarius is also known for being blunt and a little detached, so the spiky exterior sits well with them, says Chandler.

Pisces – Pothos

Pisces are known as the dreamers, represented by two fish in the stream. The Pisces energy works best when flowing, like its water element. The pothos plant’s flowing vines are a perfect image for this Pisces energy, and the heart-shaped plants represent their big dreams and emotions as the water sign. As they don’t need too much watering, this is great for Pisces who may get lost in daydream and forget, offers Chandler. This page, clockwise: A collection of houseplants; Venus ﬂy trap; peace lily; jasmine; Calathea roseopicta. Opposite page, from top: orchid, Kentia palm

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OF SHREWSBURY & HEREFORD OF CLIFTON

Dan Morris meets up with curator Emma-Kate Lanyon on his voyage of discovery at the Museum Resource Centre in Ludlow

BEATING HEART OF MUSEUMS SERVICE DAN MORRIS LEARNS ABOUT THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF SHROPSHIRE ON A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME TO SEE TREASURES CURRENTLY NOT ON SHOW AT COUNTY MUSEUMS

hropshire is blessed with a plethora of great attractions that are fun for all the family. But, when taking on the challenge of finding a day out with a difference that was both fun and educational, a particular hidden gem caught my eye. Based in Ludlow, Shropshire Museums’ Collections Centre offers anyone with a curiosity for history the chance to get behind the scenes with some of the region’s greatest treasures and up-close to historical artefacts that aren’t currently on show in the county’s museums. “This is really the heart of the museum service for Shropshire,” said curator Emma-Kate Lanyon, as I began my tour. “It’s here that we store all of the collections that aren’t on display. We

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

allow people to come and have a look at those collections, and it’s where we do all the collections care – recording, photographing and conservation work.” This place was a true Aladdin’s Cave of heritage, and I was itching to explore it in earnest. With Emma-Kate as my guide, a wonderful afternoon of discovery was surely on the cards. With a skip in my step, I was taken to the first of the collection centre’s many stores – Natural Sciences.

The Natural Sciences Store “This and our geology store are really the foundation collections for the museum service,” said Emma-Kate. “In this store we’ve got collections of pressed plants, we’ve got butterfly and moth collections, and we’ve got a huge quantity

of taxidermy as well.” Exploring the wonders of the Natural Sciences Store was fascinating, and for anybody with an interest in the history of nature it would have been nothing less than paradise. The sheer quantity of enchanting items was breathtaking, and the numerous taxidermy pieces were incredible; an insight into the historical interest of a past age, and a window into an amazing skill. It would have been easy to have got happily lost among the various birds and beasts that could be seen, but the collections centre had far more to appreciate.

The Geology Store “This is one of our most important collections,” said Emma-Kate as we entered the next impressive room and met

its most famous residents. “One of the most interesting finds from the county is of course the Shropshire mammoths. These poor creatures, which were some of the last mammoths to live in what is now the British Isles, got stuck in a pool of sticky mud. As the glaciers were melting it was leaving all these wet areas where it was lovely lush grass to feed on, but very sticky mud to get out of!” Being up-close with the mammoth bones was a real treat, and the little boy in me couldn’t help but grin at being so near to the remains of these fantastic prehistoric beasts. “Size-wise they’re equivalent really to a modern-day elephant,” Emma-Kate told me. “We know the male was just coming in to full size. He had had quite an interesting life. He had damage to one of his shoulder blades, so he’d obviously been in a fight! They’re really important for science because because they got trapped and buried in this peat that wasn’t full of oxygen, the bones were preserved and survived until today.” A true treat for youngsters and older visitors alike, the mammoths were the showpiece of the geology store. But the collections centre had many more delights still to come...

The Costume Centre For anybody with a passion for fashion through the ages, this store is a delicious wonder that you would never want to leave. “We’ve got 200 years plus of fashion and history in this store, ranging from Queen Victoria’s stockings right up to teddy boy outfits,” said Emma-Kate as we made our way through the rows of fabulous apparel. “It gives you a wonderful idea of how people have dressed in the county over the years, and it just gives you a real kind of close relationship with people. One thing that stood out for me was cataloguing a Victorian wedding dress just before I got married. It’s those poignant things that make you feel that you’ve got that connection with the past.” I have to confess to have been itching to try a few pieces on, particularly the old military uniforms. Though, restraining myself and playing by the rules, I was happy to simply marvel at the many outfits that yielded such a wonderful insight into the past, and, as Emma-Kate said, made me feel so close to the people of ages gone by. My enjoyment of history had gone into overdrive, but there was still more to discover...

The Archaeology Lab In the centre’s archaeology lab, collections project officer Katie Miller was hard at work. In this fascinating section of the collections centre, volunteers can 40

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

assist with documenting, researching and packing Shropshire’s archaeology collection – truly getting into the work behind bringing history to the public. “We are a publicly accessible laboratory,” said Katie. “We’re basically giving people a chance to get handson with their history, working with collections that range anywhere from pre-history all the way to the Industrial Revolution, and also gaining skills in databasing and photography, as well as researching. We do drop-in sessions that people can come to most Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Not only do they get to learn about all this wonderful stuff, we hope they get to learn a new skill as well.” Getting an close-up glimpse at a number of Roman pieces from Wroxeter (once Roman Britain’s fourth-largest SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

town) I was positively in heaven, and learning about the work that goes into these archaeological finds following their discovery was a wonderful and enriching way to end one of the most interesting afternoons I’d had in a long time. The rest is history As enriching days out go, the Shropshire Museums’ Collections Centre gets top marks from me. A truly fascinating learning experience that celebrates the joy of history to the fullest, it is a gem of the county that can, and should, be enjoyed by all. “One of the great things about coming on a store tour is that you get to be really close-up with this stuff; you can smell it, touch it, and then really feel a connection with it,” said Emma-Kate. “All the details are on our website, and it’s just a case of arranging a date with

us. You can either just have a look in the stores or we can get some stuff out for you to look at. There’s a whole range of options that we have available and it’s used by everyone from primary school groups to just groups of like-minded adults that want to have an interesting afternoon.” n For more information, visit www. shropshiremuseums.org.uk

PAGE 40, FROM TOP: Some of the items the Museum Resource Centre currently has in its stores PAGE 41, FROM TOP: Collections project oﬃcer Katie Miller with a piece of Roman pottery; Dan examines the mammoth bones; A variety of birds and beasts were on display.

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FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR WINTER GALA DANIEL MORRIS DISCOVERS MORE ABOUT PLANS FOR SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY’S FIRST WINTER STEAM GALA WHICH PROMISES TO OFFER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

DM Stanier Mogul on test. Photo: Bob Green

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

DM Omaha in Bridgnorth loco yard in September. Photo: John Sherratt

ith a sparkling new year now in front of us, there is no better way to kick-start it than to look around at the joy that can be had right here on our doorstep, and embrace this with aplomb. With this, one of our region’s greatest heritage attractions is bringing a tip-top treat to the table to get January rolling. A brand-new event for 2024, the Severn Valley Railway Winter Steam Gala is set to offer fun for the whole family. Looking forward to its 60th Anniversary in 2025, the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) welcomes up to 250,000 visitors per year, and is among the UK’s most popular and much-loved historical attractions. Run largely by a dedicated body of more than 1,600 volunteers, the full-size, standard-gauge railway line runs regular steam and diesel-hauled passenger trains along a scenic route between Kidderminster in Worcestershire and Bridgnorth in Shropshire for visitors and enthusiasts alike to enjoy. With this inaugural winter gala taking place from January 6-7, steam-heated carriages, breath-taking landscape and steam locomotives working hard are set to be the perfect treat for a cold winter’s day. Passengers will be able to travel in comfort in authentically-restored carriages along 16 miles of the Severn Valley. The line runs close to the River Severn and includes picturesque country stations along with The Engine House at Highley. Visitor engagement manager Lewis Maddox said: “The new Winter Steam Gala will see six home and guest locomotives in service, operating a busy timetable on both days. Stanier Mogul no 2968 will be making its first Gala appearance following overhaul and this is sure to be a highlight during the event. “It’s also the last chance to ride behind

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

On board the Severn Valley Railway

Above: The Flying Pig. Photo: Alan Corﬁeld. Below: The Engine House at Highley

locomotive 43106, affectionately known as the Flying Pig. 43106 was an original SVR locomotive, working trains way back in 1970.” In addition to a full timetable, visitors will be able to see an ‘N’ gauge model railway layout of Arley Station and Victoria Bridge at The Engine House, which is just a few minute’s walk from Highley station. Indeed, the news that SVR is holding its first ever Winter Steam Gala has been widely welcomed, and promises ideal conditions for photographers, as professional photographer and Severn Valley Railway volunteer John Titlow explained. “The days may be short but winter is the best time to be out riding and photographing steam trains,” he said. “Nothing is better than a cold, still winter day with the locomotive working hard and the exhaust laying on top of the train as it winds its way along the line. “Frosty landscapes viewed from the inside of a steam-heated carriage are something special, particularly with a hot drink in hand. Snow and sun can only make it better!” The Severn Valley Railway was built between 1858 and 1862 and linked Hartlebury, near Droitwich SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Spa, with Shrewsbury. The Bewdley to Kidderminster section, or loop line, was constructed by the GWR, which ran many of the railways in the area, and opened in June 1878. The line was never financially successful and was finally closed as part of the Beeching cuts in 1963. In 1965, plans started to preserve the railway, and since then the Severn Valley Railway has grown to become one of the leading heritage lines in the UK. The Winter Steam Gala is set to be the last chance for enthusiasts to see 21C127 ‘Taw Valley’ in wartime black, and 7812

‘Erlestoke Manor’ is back at its home base as well. Organisers anticipate that services will begin at 8am each day, finishing about 7pm, including an evening special on the Saturday, with 43106. The railway will close for its winter break after the gala, opening again from mid-February with a busy line-up of events planned throughout the year. n For more information, and to book tickets for the Winter Steam Gala, visit svr.co.uk

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Members of South Shropshire Engineering Ambassadors (SSEA) members celebrate outside Clun School with the Goblin Car built by Bucknell pupils

VOLUNTEER TEAMS GET ROYAL REWARD HEATHER LARGE AND RICHARD WILLIAMS LOOK AT THE VOLUNTARY GROUPS ACROSS THE COUNTY WHO ARE CELEBRATING RECEIVING THE KING’S AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE

hey go above and beyond to help their community and now volunteers across the county have seen their hard work and dedication recognised. Eight groups in Shropshire are among 262 local charities, social enterprises and other organisations to receive the first King’s Award for Voluntary Service. Equivalent to an MBE, it’s the highest award given to local volunteer groups in recognition of their outstanding community service and was created in 2002 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. Church & Chetwynd Aston Village Hall received the honour for providing a

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

community hub benefitting the local and wider area, for all ages, backgrounds and capabilities. Malcolm Bennett, chairman of Church and Chetwynd Aston Village Hall committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see that the hard work and efforts of everyone involved with Church and Chetwynd Aston Village Hall have been recognised in this way, with a King’s Award for Voluntary Service, for our work in providing and improving services for the benefit of our local community. “This would not have been possible without the talent and commitment of both the committee and our great helpers, and the support we have received through

grants and loans too.” South Shropshire Engineering Ambassadors (SSEA) were recognised for inspiring the interest and ambitions of young people towards engineering activities. The SSEA engineers provide support to local schools in south Shropshire with engineering activities, ranging from construction or electronic kits, to design and build exercises. They also assist the schools with the assembly and running of Greenpower Goblin electric kit cars. The group’s chairman, Rob Loynes, said: “The whole team feel honoured to receive this award in recognition of our work in local schools.

“It is important to provide a range of technical activities to young people to enable them to appreciate potential engineering career possibilities in the future. “The help and encouragement we provide is highly valued by the school teaching staff. “We must pay tribute to our immediate past chairman, Jim HalcroJohnston of Clun who has played a key role in the group for some 17 years, and also the late Dave Clark, of Aston on Clun, who had previously led the group, and all South Shropshire Engineering Ambassadors both past and present.” The Cavalier Centre received the award for providing riding for the disabled and personal development programmes to foster improved wellbeing through horses. Chair of trustees Selina Graham said: “It is not only the very hands-on trustees, but all of our volunteers who provide a totally exceptional and wonderful experience to all the people who take part in our activities. “They’re an incredibly dedicated and passionate team who support the centre and each other, as well as caring for our horses in all weathers, 365 days a year. “It’s amazing to see how they provide moments of joy to people of all ages. Their impact cannot be underestimated.” The centre’s manager, Rachel Lambert-Jones, added: “Every day, when I see how hard our volunteers work, I am inspired by their caring nature and their resilience and dedication. “They are truly inspirational. We are grateful to each and every one of them.” Home-Start Telford & Wrekin received the award for improving the health and wellbeing of families with young children in Telford. Chairman Catherine Landau said it was a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of its 35 volunteers. “This award is very much deserved by our volunteers and a fitting tribute to the amazing work that they do. “Our volunteers are the heart of our work, offering support through home visits, mental health support, and various parent-child groups.” Manager Caia Bryant-Griffiths added: “The informal support offered by our volunteers can make a lifetime’s difference.” Another recipient was Clun Valley Good Neighbours Scheme, which supports vulnerable, isolated and lonely people in the community. Founded by a small group of volunteers some 30 years ago, Clun Valley Good Neighbours has gone from strength to strength. Recognising the isolation of some 48

older people in an area with a failing transport service and the need to access medical facilities, the scheme initially was set up to arrange transport to hospitals, doctors and other essential services. With more than 40 volunteers, it has expanded to include a befriending and visiting service for frail and isolated people and a ‘Friendly Cafe’ providing a safe and welcoming space for support and friendship. For many, the daily telephone helpline brings peace of mind. A recent example of how Good Neighbours responds to changing needs within the community was the Covid crisis. Joan Kerry, immediate past chair of Clun Valley Good Neighbours Scheme, said: “We are so proud that the work of our volunteers has been recognised by such a prestigious award.” Telford Crisis Support was recognised for providing vital community assistance and services that make a positive difference within Telford. Chair Chris Jones said: “We are very honoured to receive this prestigious award. TCS volunteers form the backbone and spirit of TCS, they are tireless, hardworking, loyal and dedicated they work with and alongside our dedicated staff to make a difference in our community.” Ludlow Cancer Support Group received the award for offering a safe, supportive space for sufferers and the bereaved to meet, laugh and socialise. The Ludlow Cancer Support Group began when a small group of people got together after a friend was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Chairman Rosemary Wood said it was often difficult to talk to family or friends

about cancer for fear of causing them distress, but the group provides a social, safe meeting place where members can talk, or not talk, about their illness. Members also include people who have come to the group alongside a partner suffering from cancer, who then remain as part of the group after bereavement. She said: “Although several foundermembers and former members who gave so much to the group are no longer with us, they are not forgotten. “Our conversations often run along the lines of ‘Do you remember when Joan or Jack, or Dave, or Dori, or Pauline or Bryan did or said such and such?’ And, yes, we do remember, and we laugh. “We know how proud they would have been, if they were still here, to know that Ludlow Cancer Support Group has received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.” Shropshire Child Contact Centres, which also received the award, was recognised for enabling contact between children and parents after a family breakdown during very emotional times. The organisation has three volunteerrun centres that aim to provide a friendly, safe and neutral environment where children can meet a parent or other family members they might not otherwise see. A team of more than 25 volunteers and management committee members run the centres, which are located in Oswestry, Shrewsbury and Wellington, Telford. When on duty, volunteers provide toys, serve refreshments and welcome parents and children. They need to be able to listen to children or adults who

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

may be under stress, without judging, advising or taking sides. Manager of the centres, Valerie Collard, said: “The volunteers are absolutely delighted. They gave up their time, their Saturday afternoons, to make sure that children get to see non-resident parents and siblings.” Meanwhile, a Birmingham voluntary theatre and arts group with a Shropshire woman among those at the helm has also been awarded the King’s Award. LouDeemY Productions creates and produces multi-media performances and workshops. One of its leaders, Louise Stokes, grew up in Aston Munslow and went to Ludlow Grammar School. She said: “Our aim is to involve our audiences and participants; to evoke response and thought, because we believe that creativity and art has a huge role in the learning, healing and change process.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

“It’s such an honour for our organisation to receive this award; each and every volunteer and participant is totally committed to ensuring that both as individuals and a group as a whole. We provide and share in experiences which help us live our best lives, with a huge amount of laughter thrown in for good measure.” Congratulating all of the recipients, Shropshire’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Anna Turner JP said: “I am delighted that eight Shropshire groups have been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service this year. “This prestigious award is richly deserved by each of the groups, who have made a real difference to so many people in the county of Shropshire.” Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, public health and communities, added her congratulations to the award winners.

“I am delighted that eight organisations across the county, and representing such a broad range of services to our communities, have earned this prestigious award. “The service and care shown by the award-winning organisations to those in the most need and in building and inspiring our communities is invaluable. “There are thousands of people who give their time so generously to our community and I applaud all of them.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A recent presentation at the Cavalier Centre at Much Wenlock; the team at Church and Chetwynd Aston Village Hall (Photo: Geoﬀ Sellars); HM Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire Anna Turner; Telford Crisis Support members; Louise Stokes of LouDeemY.

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RAMBLERS STAYING ONE STEP AHEAD MATTHEW PANTER MEETS THE SHREWSBURY RAMBLERS WHO WITH A SECOND GUIDE, LOOK TO INSPIRE WALKERS TO INVESTIGATE SOME OF THE MOST SCENIC LOCATIONS IN SHROPSHIRE

ome things need shouting about from the rooftops. And, for members of the Shrewsbury Ramblers, one such thing is the beauty of the surroundings here in Shropshire. Such is the group’s determination to showcase the region, members have just released a new book. It is a companion publication to the immensely successful ‘20 Walks in and around Shrewsbury’ which was published in 2012. Thousands of sales and comments about the first book convinced the group that demand existed for a follow-up book. And so ‘20 More Walks around Shrewsbury’ has been born. It’s set to inspire walkers from the county and beyond to investigate some of the most scenic locations. “It’s just staggering how beautiful Shropshire is,” says Walks Book project leader Curt Williams. Curt arrived in the county in 1998, having relocated from Colorado, but it was only when he joined the Shrewsbury Ramblers that he became struck by the incredible sights around him. “I didn’t appreciate how lovely Shropshire is and it has a tremendous 52

amount to offer,” he said. “I grew up in Colorado but do I prefer it there to here? They are both beautiful in their own ways so, to me, it’s like saying which child is your favourite? You can’t answer the question. What I know is Shropshire is stunning and we have had people come

from outside the county who have said they have never appreciated how pretty it is. “I don’t think a lot of people realise what Shropshire has to offer in terms of walking and general scenery, but I hope this book will help make this visible to them. “The first book and the reason for the second is the Ramblers is an organisation which encourages people to get out walking, out seeing the great countryside and hopefully this will give people the chance to try some areas they might not have done before. “It also showcases the benefits of being out walking – improving mental health, fitness and key points like that.” Curt says the book has been a labour of love for the group. “It’s taken 18 months to write it,” he said. “We have about 400 members within the Shrewsbury Ramblers and the way the book progressed was that we put out a call to say ‘send us your favourite walks’. “Well-loved walks were suggested by members of the group and, after we received what would be considered the favourite ones, we had to cull the list JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Top left: The Project Team (Peter Greeve, Susan Turner, Curt Williams, Nev Hubbard and Mick Gadd) from left to right with Councillor Alan Moseley, Kate Ashbrook and Madam Mayor Becca Wall (Mayor of Shrewsbury); below: Shrewsbury Ramblers admire a local view. Other pictures from the Ramblers

down. We looked at how to get a nice geographic spread, so not all one area of Shropshire or another. “I think what sets this apart was the level of detail we put into it, the amount of checking we did to ensure the accuracy of the walk. “We have a good illustrator and added interesting facts to accompany them. On the last page, there’s a list saying how far the walk is from Shrewsbury – the starting point – how long the walk is, whether it’s strenuous or leisurely and a whole description so you don’t have to hunt through the entire book.” Members of the Shrewsbury Ramblers have tested the walks and provided advice to the project group. The walks are leisurely or moderate in grading and vary from urban, through rural and canalside to hill walks in the Shropshire Hills Area of Natural Beauty. They range from four miles to 6.5 miles in length, providing something of interest to a wide range of walkers and are suitable for families. The group has sought and received significant financial support towards producing the book from Shrewsbury Town Council and from the Ramblers. “My favourite is Brockton in summer,” says Curt. “It wasn’t one I wasn’t familiar with but it has such SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

scenic, panoramic views. I got to walk it to validate the directions and it really was quite impressive. But there are a lot of interesting walks depending on what you want and what you are interested in.” The foreword to the book has been written by Kate Ashbrook, secretary of the Open Spaces Society, patron of the Walkers are Welcome Towns Network and a former chair of the Ramblers and Campaign for National Parks. “This is a great endorsement of this exciting project,” Curt adds. Nev Hubbard, outgoing Chairman of Shrewsbury Ramblers, is also proud of the work that has been put into the project. “The way in which members of Shrewsbury Group have come together to support the ‘20 More Walks’ book is particularly pleasing,” he said. “They have supported every aspect of the project, devising walks, including indicating points of interest, trialling the walks, building up accurate and user-friendly directions and submitting photographs, so a truly uniting and edifying experience.” Curt also hopes those who pick up the book might be inspired to even get involved with the Ramblers. The Ramblers are at the heart of walking in Britain; working to promote walking and protect the places where people walk. The organisation works

to make it easy for everyone to walk, whether in countryside, cities, hills, coasts and on or off the beaten track. It cares about access, protecting the environment, looking after the path network across Britain and equity so that all can access the countryside. There is a grass roots network, nationally, of more than 25,000 volunteers and Curt said: “Walking with people, some become friends, some very close, and others social acquaintances. “It allows you to integrate as much or as little as you want, it gives you that flexibility. We have a good social scene in Shrewsbury too – ten pin bowling, theatre, pub nights. “Things are happening every month to bring people together to walk and socialise.” The books are on sale at various local Shrewsbury retail outlets such as Abbey Foregate Post Office, Write Here, the Visitor Information Centre, Shropshire Wildlife Trust shop, Pengwern Books in the town, and further afield at Battlefield 1403 Farm Shop and the Haughmond Store in Upton Magna. n You can find out more about the Shrewsbury Ramblers at ramblers.org.uk/ go-walking/ramblers-groups/shrewsburygroup. 53

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Cast members Jemma Churchill, Kayla Carter, Lucie-Mae Sumner, Jamie Chapman, Melissa Jacques, Jessica Daley and Scott Paige. Below: Pete Waterman with the musical’s creator, Birmingham-born Debbie Isitt, who also created the festive ﬁlms Nativity! The Musical. Pictures: Marc Brenner

PETE GETS SO LUCKY WITH MUSIC SHOW ANDY RICHARDSON TALKS TO MUSIC MOGUL PETE WATERMAN, OF THE FAMED STOCK AITKEN WATERMAN HITS MACHINE, ABOUT HOW HIS MUSIC HAS BEEN ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE

ong before the days of Simon Cowell, there was Pete Waterman. The record producer and songwriter was the most influential pop mogul during the 1980s. Shaping the careers of Kylie Minogue, Rick Astley, Bananarama, and even Cliff Richard, notching up a fortune of more than £30 million and appearing as a judge on Pop Idol – the show that paved the way for X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent, and more – Waterman helped to shape the pop landscape. Little wonder, then, that his remarkable career – and the music he made – should be the subject of a new musical. The man who was one third of Stock Aitken Waterman, which provided the soundtrack for a generation, is seeing his life’s work make its way onto the stage. The world premiere of the official Stock Aitken Waterman musical, I Should Be So Lucky, is just around the corner, as the Hit Factory’s Pete Waterman moves into musical theatre. And Waterman

believes the time is right to bring the songs to the stage. The musical is written by Debbie Isitt, creator of the festive hit Nativity! The Musical. Over the years, a number of people had wanted to make a musical using the Stock Aitken Waterman songs. Pete says: “I’d previously worked with a couple of people on it, but I think we’d never seen a story that was of any interest to us. Nobody came up with a story that we thought was emotional enough – they are very emotional songs and I think people didn’t get that. “Working with the cast in the theatre recently took Mike (Stock) and I back to when we wrote the songs. When you hear someone do a song slightly differently, the lyrics get to you. I guess nobody before had understood why the lyrics were so poignant. Yes, they were hits, but they were more than hits to the people that bought them, they were statements, particularly for young people. We’ve JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

always guarded that, we never wanted to spoil that memory. I think that the people we talked to in the past didn’t see the depth of the songs, they just saw that they were hits and that didn’t work for us.” Of course, Waterman cut his teeth in the music industry – and not in theatre. In the late 1970s, Waterman took up a job as an A&R man, and worked in the Philadelphia scene, which included introducing the Three Degrees to the UK. He then moved to Jamaica working with Peter Tosh and Lee Perry, and producing Susan Cadogan’s reggae-crossover hit ‘Hurt So Good’. He enjoyed success with acts like Musical Youth and Nik Kershaw and then set up his own company PWL (Pete Waterman Limited) in 1984, quickly signing producers Matt Aitken and Mike Stock, who produced the song ‘Whatever I Do’ for Hazell Dean. Stock Aitken Waterman became one of the most successful musical production teams of the 1980s and Waterman has been involved in at least 22 UK number one singles with his acts also including Dead or Alive, Steps, Mel and Kim, Donna Summer, Sinitta and more. “This is a very different genre for us – musical theatre – it’s hard work, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life. My admiration for the cast is unbelievable. The hours they work and the detail they put in. The last thing you want is the writers of the music to sit in the audience frowning, but they’ve got to understand that these are our children, SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

songs that are very special to us. We’re writers, but we’re now also the custodians of people’s memories, so we are touchy about how those songs are treated.” His most successful song was Rick Astley’s smash, ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’. “There’s no question, it’s ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’. It has taken on a life of its own. It’s easy to say that now that it has become almost legendary – I think last year we did 400 million hits, and its 35 years on. It’s a song that got wrote on the way to work with Rick, and we didn’t take it that seriously at the time. “You’ve got to pinch yourself sometimes. It’s when you see Kylie closing the Olympics or Rick doing Glastonbury and then doing this musical, you sit there thinking, ‘I didn’t think I’d be doing this 40 years ago’. I thought we’d do great just getting a couple of years out of it.” The production features endless hits from the Stock Aitken Waterman catalogue, such as Never Gonna Give You Up, Especially For You, and the titular I Should Be So Lucky. Waterman loves it: “In this show there’s a couple of songs that really hit me hard about why we wrote them, because they’re done in a different way to how we did them, and it’s just beautiful. I think that’s what has struck me about this whole thing. “George Dyer, the production’s musical director, what he’s done is absolutely great, you sit back and think, ‘I never saw the song like that’. Sonia’s song,

‘Never Stop Me Loving You’, I have never seen the way they do it in this musical. You just go, ‘Wow, why didn’t I think of that’. The musical had me in tears. Two songs, every time they play them get to me, because the lyrics are so important to us.” Looking back, he’s delighted that he got to work with a number of artists, not least iconic hitmaker Kylie Minogue, who scored her first UK number one with ‘I Should Be So Lucky’, and who also landed a starring role in the musical of the same name. Whose idea was it to get Kylie involved, and what is it like to work with her again after all these years? “It was the producer’s idea to get Kylie involved, and I won’t spoil it for anybody, but it works – I was as sceptical as the next man, but it does work quite brilliantly within the show. I’ve been so busy doing TV and other things that I couldn’t get to London to see her in rehearsals, but I’m doing a show with her soon, so we’ll get to catch up then. With all your artists you never fall out with them. “Because I’m that much older than all the guys, I was always like their dad really – they always treated me like their dad.” The curtain is about to go up on the West Midlands production of the show, which features at The Alexandra, in Birmingham, from April 1-6. Waterman hopes crowds like it. “This musical couldn’t have been timed better. We’re currently in a world that’s all over the place, I mean, we just need a bit of uplift as we’ve got enough grief.” 57

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HE SAID, SHE SAID: NAVIGATING THE LEGAL COMPLEXITIES OF DIVORCE As of 2021, approximately 42 percent of marriages ended in divorce in the UK, with marriages lasting an average of 12.3 years. Those that are experiencing a marriage breakdown must also face the legal implication that are involved in a divorce. Here, Simon Magner Mawdsley, Partner and Head of the Family Law team at Aaron & Partners, answers some of the common questions he is asked when assisting with a divorce. What is the divorce procedure and how long does it take? In April 2022, the ‘no fault’ divorce process became law. The new procedure was designed to be more simplistic. The law provides that a divorce application can be made by one spouse (a sole application) or by the couple together (a joint application). Once the divorce application is submitted to the court (online via a court Portal), the divorce proceedings will be issued. If the application is a sole application, the person who starts the divorce proceedings is known as the applicant and the other spouse is known as the respondent. If the application is a joint application, there will be an applicant 1 and applicant 2. In a sole application, the Respondent will have to acknowledge the application, in a joint application both applicants must acknowledge the proceedings after issue. There is then a mandatory 20-week reflection period. At the expiry of the 20week period, the applicants can apply for a Conditional Order (like the old Decree Nisi). Finally, six weeks and one day after the Conditional Order is pronounced, the applicants can apply for a Final Order. A Final Order ends the marriage. In total, the divorce proceedings usually take 6 months to conclude. However, it is

advisable to delay applying for the Final Order in the divorce application until such time as a Final Financial Order has been made. Therefore, divorce proceedings will normally be finalised once the financial issues arising from the breakdown of a marriage are resolved. What factors does the Court take into consideration when dividing the matrimonial finances? The court will consider the following: • The parties’ income and assets (including pensions) • The parties’ financial needs • The standard of living enjoyed before the breakdown of the marriage • The parties’ ages and the length of the marriage • Any physical or mental health issues • The contributions which each of the parties has made (both financial and non-financial) • Any relevant bad behaviour of either party How do you sort out the arrangements for children on divorce/relationship breakdown Any arrangements made should always focus on what is in the best interests of the children. Arrangements will deal with: • Where the children will live • How much time they’ll spend with each parent • When and what other types of contact take place (phone calls, for example) It is always preferable for parents to try and agree the arrangements for their children themselves. There is no

If you would like advice about a nuptial agreement, please contact Simon Magner Mawdsley, Partner, Head of Family Law at Aaron & Partners on 01244 405 415 | 07388 002 124 | simon.mawdsley@aaronandpartners.com

right or wrong arrangement; different arrangements will work for different families. Court should always be a last resort, so if the parties are unable to agree the arrangements themselves, then they should consider other forms of dispute resolution, like mediation, first. If parties can’t agree, then they will have to make a court application. The ultimate decision is then taken away from the parties and placed in the hands of the court (Magistrates or a Judge). The Court’s decision about the arrangements for children will be recorded in an order than will be legally binding on them.

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CHEF RELISHING HER DREAM ROLE HEATHER LARGE MEETS PASSIONATE CHEF ANNA JONES, WHO HAS WORKED HER WAY UP TO THE TOP KITCHEN POSITION AT ONE OF THE REGION’S MOST FAMOUS COUNTRY ESTATES

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

ead chef Anna Jones is living her dream. The 30-year-old has worked her way up the ranks and now leads a kitchen team at historic Weston Park. Using fresh produce straight from the estate, she creates seasonal dishes and menus for the Granary restaurant and also private parties, weddings and celebrations in the House. The top job had been in Anna’s sights since she began working at Weston Park, on the Staffordshire/Shropshire border, as a pastry chef in 2014. “I started when I was 21. In this industry, it’s common for people to stay for a few years, gain experience, and move on. “But I very quickly fell in love with Weston and I knew I wanted to become head chef,” she explains. After leaving Idsall School, Anna started her training at Radbrook College in Shrewsbury and earned her Level 1 and Level 2 Professional Chef ’s Diplomas. A job as a commis chef at a hotel, near Ironbridge, followed before Anna completed a three-month internship at Heston Blumenthal’s restaurant, The Fat Duck, in Berkshire, which she described as an ‘amazing’ experience. Her next role was as junior sous chef at The Lion and Pheasant in Shrewsbury. Since joining the team at Weston Park, she has worked as a pastry chef, junior sous chef and sous chef before being appointed head chef in May 2020. With Covid restrictions in place, Anna had to hit the ground running in her new job. “It was very challenging, I had to learn how to be a head chef and also learn how to adapt the things we do to abide by Covid rules. “Since coming out of lockdown, I have built a good team around me – my team are wonderful,” she explains. Weston Park is proud to follow an estate to plate ethos. Anna’s menus are created using fresh produce taken from the Walled Garden, solar heated poly tunnel and heritage orchards. Among the vegetables being grown are pumpkins, squash, kale, parsnips, sprouts and beetroot. The orchard offers pears, apples and plums and there are soft fruits including strawberries and raspberries as well as herbs such as thyme, rosemary and sage. “We work very closely with the garden team. All of the produce gets used for weddings, events in the House or in the restaurant. “Eighty-per cent of the restaurant menu is written around the wall garden so if we know we will have apples ready to be picked, we will make sure we use apples in the menus. We can pick daily 60

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Weston Park’s Food & Beverage Manager Martin Page with chef Anna Jones, who is proud of having helped achieve the AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence

so if we know we’ve got 40 people in for lunch, we can go to the garden and pick 40 portions of veg. It’s so fresh,” explains Anna. Although she loves devising and cooking a vast variety of dishes, Anna says she has a soft spot for anything sweet. “I love doing pastry, it’s what I started doing here and I still love making any kind of dessert. “Chocolate is my favourite. There is so much people don’t understand about what you can do with chocolate. It’s so diverse, there’s so many things you can do and I love learning about different techniques. “I also love making bread. I think sometimes people take bread for granted but when you learn how it is made, it’s fascinating,” explains Anna. Weddings are another highlight of the job and she enjoys working with couples to plan the menu for their celebration. “We want every event we do to feel special and as perfect as they want it to be,” says Anna, who lives in Kingswinford. It’s been a year of achievements for Anna and the team, who were awarded a highly sought-after AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence. Only about 10 per cent of restaurants in the UK achieve the standards needed to qualify for an AA Rosette, which recognises food prepared with care, understanding and skill. “The AA Rosette was something I had always wanted to achieve and I really

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pushed for it this year,” she says. It came after the restaurant won silver in the Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year category at 2023 the Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism & Good Food Awards. There was also personal success with Anna being highly commended in the young employee of the year category at this year’s Black Country Chamber of Commerce awards. The award – which recognises the ingenuity, determination, and success of the region’s best young people – came as a shock, she says. “I wasn’t expecting it so it was really special. I’m very lucky to have a talented

team supporting me,” adds Anna. “Whether it’s a private party, wedding or celebration in the House, or a meal in the Granary Restaurant, Anna’s skills, passion and commitment to our estateto-plate ethos always shine through,” says chief executive Colin Sweeney. “She is highly trusted and respected by her colleagues and to be recognised with this award is purely down to sheer hard work, talent, passion for culinary excellence, determination, commitment and positivity. “We are all very proud of Anna winning highly commended in her category and I personally cannot wait to see what she does next.”

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FOOD&DRINK

THERE’S A RUM DO AT NEW DISTILLERY ED THOMAS HAD ANOTHER TOUGH ASSIGNMENT WHEN HE WENT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT A NEW BUSINESS

reeted by distillery founder Hannah Boon, a drinks industry professional who returned to Shropshire a little over a year ago, it quickly becomes clear that things are done a little differently by Distinct Distillers. Tucked away in the countryside near Much Wenlock, the distillery building is understated, historic and well, distinctive in its own way. Hannah explains the very ethos of the business, the distillery and their products is to challenge convention. To embrace tradition, while pushing innovative techniques, processes and approaches. The monochrome branded Distinct Distillers was only founded in October 2022 and after an intense six months testing, refining and building, the first products were launched in April 2023. These first rums belong to Distinct’s Rum & Sum brand which is a riot of colour and fun, the drinks are fresh, naturally flavoured and zero sugar, about as close to a health drink as you will find that contains alcohol! There are two flavours. The subtlety golden Pineapple and Coconut, and the ice pink Raspberry and Mint. They talk the talk and walk the walk as versatile sipping or mixing rums. Rum & Sum bridges the gap from gin and vodka over to rum. Tapping into a growing market, this is rum done in a distinctive way. The drinks can be mixed with tonic just like you might with gin and vodka. Or, cocktail shaker in hand, they can be mixed up in to Mules, Cosmos and a whole host of mixed drinks. What the Rum & Sum drinks are doing is attracting more drinkers over from the hugely attractive craft gin scene, into the rapidly growing rum market. Total rum sales surpassed £1 billion in the UK in 2022, slightly ahead of 64

The Distinct Distillers team, from left, Annie Coombes, Josh Watkins and Hannah Boon.

the most traditional of spirits, whisky. Rum is still in the shade compared to gin however, which has UK sales in excess of £2 billion per annum. It was this wave of excitement in rum that enticed Hannah to move away from her corporate career and break out on her own. Hannah was clear in explaining that the people and the products were great in corporate life. However, it was the red tape and slow processes that left her thinking things could be done differently. Distinct was born and the distillery took shape in the midst of an old second world war depot, the distillery building is now affectionately known as The Gun Club, a nod to the history of the site, which is also evident in the way things are done. Sustainability and the

environment are hugely important for Distinct. Hugely important full stop. Partnering with a family business, Distinct has been able to create circular economies with distillation by product used in turn in products which go on to aid soil health. Healthy soils mean healthy plants, healthy planet and also healthy yields. In the same way by products are reused, ingredients in rum making have also been efficiently procured, teaming up with the same family business, Molasses is used to create rum, as well as animal feeds (not at the same time!) Another key aspect of the sustainability journey has been reuse and recycling. While the still used to make all the rums, perched in the corner of The Gun Club, is the latest insulated technology, many of the fermenting and ageing vessels are re-purposed. The assortment of stainless steel tanks, neatly arranged to enhance flow and efficiency, have found new leases of life helping to create rum and other spirits. The insulated still is also part of the sustainability journey. Head Distiller, Josh Watkins explained that the insulated jacket makes it far more energy efficient than traditional copper stills. The still JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

also offers different cycles, which offer different flavour profiles and in turn distinctive end products. It’s this distinctiveness that has led to approaches from external partners to create drinks for them. Distinct’s first contract distilling customer ordered cans of gin and tonic and there are plenty more orders being generated. More recently The Distinct Collection has also been launched. This premium brand has serious bottle presence, making it distinct from its competitors. The range includes two rums. First came Distinct No 41. This is a spiced rum, but it’s triple filtered to ensure purity and a totally clear appearance, like a white rum. The flavour is lightly spiced with vanilla and caramel. Then there is Distinct No. 57, this is a 57 per cent British White Proof Rum, very smooth and refined, it hides away the alcohol punch that it packs. British Proof, Overproof and Navy Strength are all terms for assessing the strength of spirits. Navy Strength was developed by Royal Navy pursers more than two centuries ago. A few grains of gunpowder would be added to some spirit which was gently heated, if it ignited it SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

was proof, if it failed to light it was too weak and if it went up with a bang it was overproof. Today, true Navy Strength is 54.5 per cent which is defined by the gunpowder test, however the British Proof level of 57 per cent measured using a hydrometer is most widely used today. To ensure both ranges of rums have distinctive flavour profiles, everything is created by Distinct from scratch. There are no imported base spirits and product development is based on hundreds of micro batches, each one edging towards the perfect distilling and fermentation process. This allows for maximum creativity and fresh perspective. Hannah explained that there are plenty more drinks and flavours in the works that will be added to the Distinct brand family. Using repurposed casks, rums are now ageing gracefully to be bottled and released in the future. The site also lends itself to a large ageing and bonded warehousing operation with space to store over 17 million bottles, so far they haven’t even scratched the surface. Product shots: Matt Madden Photography

FOODS TO WARD OFF A WINTER COLD CELEBRITY NUTRITIONIST GABRIELA PEACOCK REVEALS THE HERO FOODS YOUR BODY NEEDS TO STAY HEALTHY

utritionist to the stars, Gabriela Peacock, has revealed the immune-boosting foods to get into your diet this winter, if you want to stave off dreaded colds and bugs. A lot of people don’t realise just how interlinked winter health and nutrition are, says the 44-year-old, but our immune system “is directly dependant on what we put within the body to create a chemical reaction – it’s really, really important”. Here are Peacock’s hero foods your body needs this winter…

1. Fermented food Peacock recommends eating live yoghurts, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and tofu. “They directly increase the beneficial bacteria in your intestine, which supports the healthy microbiome – and the healthy microbiome will in turn support our immunity.”

2. Green tea “This would be one of my one of my hero drinks, especially over this period of the year, because tea is nice and warming. Green tea contains catechins which are polyphenols,” explains Peacock. “Polyphenols are phytochemicals – plant chemicals that have numerous health benefits. One of the main benefits is immunomodulating properties [which] stimulate our immune system and decrease the chronic inflammation. Basically, when you’re looking at the immunity, you want to decrease the inflammation.”

3. Pigmented fruits “We are looking for the dark pigments, [they] will contain the polyphenols which will directly stimulate the immunity. So think about black blackberries, red raspberries, red peppers, green kale, orange or yellow pumpkins – if and you see these saturated colours, they are really beneficial. Eat the rainbow – beige food is not good for us. The pigment is the polyphenol.”

4. Omega-3-packed ﬁsh, nuts and seeds “Omega-9 and Omega-6 we tend to be OK with [obtaining] but most people struggle with Omega-3 because we just don’t eat enough of it. This would be oily fish; salmon, mackerel, sardines, a bit of tuna, also a vegetarian source; nuts and seeds.”

5. Garlic Garlic contains sulphur (as do onions, leeks and eggs). “Sulphur is incredibly important because they stimulate the liver detoxification processes and that in turn will have a really positive effect on immunity,” Peacock says.

6. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables – including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts and kale – are really important for immunity,

Peacock says, and it’s “probably the best liver-supporting group of vegetables”. They contain liver-friendly sulphur, polyphenols and are high in fibre – which is “fantastic for digestion” (immunity and digestion are very much linked).

7. Citrus Vitamin C is very important this time of year. “It’s a direct antioxidant, in order to fight free radicals, which is essentially what makes us sick. If you increase antioxidants in your diet, you’re increasing the protection, you’re giving your immune system protection,” Peacock says. “Grapefruit is high in Vitamin C.” n These principles are incorporated in Gabriela Peacock’s latest book, 2 Weeks to a Younger You, (Kyle Books, £25). Supplements are available at GP nutrition.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

RETIREMENT NOT ON MARY’S MENU KATIE WRIGHT TALKS TO COOKING LEGEND AND TV STAR MARY BERRY ABOUT A CULINARY CAREER THAT HAS SPANNED SIX DECADES – AND THE LAUNCH OF HER 96TH(ISH) BOOK

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ary Berry says she still has a “passion” for cookery and isn’t planning to hang up her apron any time soon. “I don’t want to retire at all. I have a passion for what I do and I love teaching,” says the former Great British Bake Off judge, 88, who began her TV cooking career in the early 1970s. “I mean, I’ve got wonderful health… I’m really lucky. I love what I do.” Born in Bath, she moved to London aged 21 and studied part-time at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school, alongside jobs, doing cookery demonstrations and recipe testing. “I’ve always worked very hard, early on taking any work that came my way,” says Berry, who married Paul Hunnings in 1966. The couple have two children, Annabel and Thomas (their other son William died aged 19). “I worked in a butchers, I worked in a fishmongers, I worked during the night when I was on a holiday in a bakery that made wonderful bread. My husband was with the two children while I worked.” After becoming food editor at nowdefunct Housewife Magazine, then Ideal Home (which is still going strong), Berry published her debut cookbook in 1970 and landed her first TV gig shortly after. “My first TV cooking was with Judy Chalmers on Good Afternoon and I did farmhouse cooking. I like to think that TV is the best way of teaching to a very large audience. I want to inspire people to enjoy cooking more,” Berry recalls. Quickly proving popular with viewers, she remained a fixture on TV screens over the next four decades, joining Paul Hollywood as a Bake Off judge from 2010 to 2016. “Of course you need the back-up of

a book,” Berry continues, nudging the conversation back to the topic at hand, her latest recipe book, Mary Makes it Easy. “I like to feel that with a book I’m holding somebody’s hand who is a little bit nervous and trying a recipe the first time, and I want them to have real success.” Something in the region of her 96th cookbook (the exact total appears to be lost in the sands of time), it’s all about simplicity, with a focus on onepot wonders (like chicken tartiflette or meatball toad in the hole), quick dinners

you can prepare in advance (veggie bolognese; humble pie) and freezable sweets (elderflower and lemon traybake; maple and orange pudding). “We all want something easy, don’t we?” says Berry, who admits even she still has the occasional slip-up in the kitchen. “I forget to put the timer on, I take things out too soon, all the things a housewife – or whoever’s doing the cooking – [might do]. We all make mistakes.” Having experienced times when cash was tight, the frugal foodie has lots of

Mary Berry’s Somerset cheddar cheese straws Ingredients: 250g (9oz) cold butter, cubed 55g (2oz) semolina 400g (14oz) plain ﬂour 1 tsp mustard powder ¼ tsp cayenne pepper 150g (5oz) mature Somerset Cheddar, coarsely grated 150g (5oz) Parmesan, coarsely grated, plus about 4tbsp ﬁnely grated, to garnish 1 egg, beaten A little milk

Method: Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 6. Line two large baking sheets with nonstick baking paper. Measure the butter, semolina, ﬂour, mustard powder, cayenne pepper and a 68

little salt into a food processor. Whizz until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs. Add the Cheddar, Parmesan and egg and whizz until the dough comes together. Remove the dough from the processor, divide into two equal pieces, and shape each one with your hands on a ﬂoured work surface into a rectangle. Roll each piece of dough to a rectangle about 46 x 16cm (18 × 6½in) and about 8mm (⅓in) thick. Brush the milk over the top of the dough and sprinkle with the ﬁnely grated Parmesan. Slice each rectangle into roughly 25 strips. Carefully lift each straw on to the baking sheets and bake in the oven for about 18 minutes, or until golden brown. Leave to cool on the baking sheet until the straws have hardened and are easy to handle. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Mary’s Easy Peasy One-Pot Chicken

Ingredients:

advice for home cooks who want to cut costs. “It’s all about planning,” says Berry, who is a big fan of doubling up on recipes and freezing half for a later date. “The freezer is like a second larder if you label things properly. I write, say, ‘roasted vegetable lasagna, very good’ and I may even put in my diary when I’m going to use it.” As well as a culinary career spanning six decades, Berry – who became a Dame in the 2020 Birthday Honours – has been happily married for 67 years. What’s her secret to a harmonious home? “Well, you know in my day you got married for richer or for poorer, till death us do part, which to me is very important,” the octogenarian says. “We don’t have arguments, I just go in the garden or the greenhouse if he’s annoying me. “Try and never go to bed on an argument,” she advises. And count your blessings: “I’m immensely grateful still to have him. Many of my friends haven’t got their husbands.” Recently, some of Berry’s 1970s TV demonstrations have found a new audience on TikTok, with quaint clips showing her making the trendiest dishes of the day, like chicken stroganoff, ox tongue (“such a lovely idea for a picnic”)

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and sherry trifle – not that she would know. “I have no idea. I don’t do social things like TikTok, I don’t do Twitter,” says Berry (her assistant Lucy runs an Instagram account on behalf of the pair.) “It’s very nice that people are enjoying the early ones.” She gently admonishes me when I confess that I’ve never sampled tongue: “You can buy it ready sliced in the supermarket. Have you never had it? You’re a foodie… “I like it very much, my husband does, too. We have it occasionally. It’s more reasonable than having ham.” Having seen many a food fad come and go, the one she struggled to get on board with the most was nouvelle cuisine, aka “little bits of something on a plate”. “All the chefs were doing it and I remember well my mother, I think it was her 100th birthday, and we went to a very posh restaurant, it was nouvelle cuisine,” Berry recalls. “I can remember the plates arriving for my brothers and my cousins. My mother got hold of the waiter and said, ‘That’s not enough for a man!’ And she was quite right.” n Mary Makes it Easy is published by BBC Books, priced £28. Photography by Laura Edwards.

2 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced 1 red pepper, deseeded and diced 3 large garlic cloves, ﬁnely grated 100ml (3½ﬂ oz) white wine 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato paste 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 small whole chicken (about 1.25kg/2lb 12oz) 5 bay leaves 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds 1 tsp paprika 1 tbsp runny honey

Method: Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6. Heat the oil in a deep lidded casserole or large, lidded, ovenproof frying pan over a high heat. Add the onion, fennel and pepper and fry for about three to four minutes, stirring regularly. Add the garlic and fry for 30 seconds. Pour in the wine and boil to reduce by half. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, sun-dried tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and black pepper. Meanwhile, put the chicken upside down on a board. Remove the backbone by cutting either side of the bone with scissors. Turn over and press down on the breastbone to ﬂatten the bird; it is now a spatchcock chicken. Arrange the lemon slices and bay leaves over the chicken. Put the chicken, breast-side up, on top of the vegetables in the casserole or frying pan. Season and bring up to the boil. Cover with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven for about 35 minutes. Remove the lid and sprinkle the paprika over the chicken and drizzle with the honey. Return to the oven, uncovered, for about 30 minutes to brown and ﬁnish cooking. To serve, spoon the vegetables on to a hot platter and joint or carve the chicken before arranging the chicken on top of the vegetables.

A PERFECT VINTAGE

TANNERS FINE WINE EXECUTIVE, AIDEN SCHWARZER, LOOKS AT THE RENOWNED FINE WINE REGION OF BURGUNDY AND THE SYSTEM WHICH INVOLVES BUYING THE WINE STILL IN BARREL

ach January the fine wine world sees the annual Burgundy En Primeur campaign. En Primeur is a system where you buy wine while it is still lying abroad in the growers’ cellars. It is often your best chance to secure certain wines and sometimes the only opportunity to do so, it also tends to represent a saving versus the price you see on the shelf – if the wine even makes it to the shelf, such is the limited nature of many of the finest Burgundies! You pay for the wine upfront, and then the Duty and VAT once the wine ships, or you can leave the wine in storage, under bond, and defer the taxes until you wish to take delivery of your bottles in the future. To this end, its crucial to seek out a reputable wine merchant, one with a proven track record, one you trust. This year we see releases from the 2022 vintage, while I don’t expect to see another rendition of “best-ever vintage” from many quarters, I wonder how much more anyone could demand of a region and its 12-month journey around the sun. The knowing looks, quiet confidence and obvious bubbling pride shown by our growers tells me to trust my own judgment on this one… Twenty-two was a warm and sometimes hot, very dry summer for much of Europe and this strip of prized 70

vineyard in the centre-east of France was no different. The fruit was ripe, but a few isolated wines aside, alcohol levels generally hit the sweet spot of 12.513.5 per cent. Drought was a concern, and it is a mounting problem with each summer, but rain fell at the right time to give respite, to help avoid the huge, concentrated effect that is a mark of the (excellent) 2020 vintage, and it contributed to a natural freshness in most wines we tasted. The wines from all sub-regions show great balance and transparency, demonstrating their respective terroirs wonderfully. The whites generally feel restrained and pure, not overtly citrusy, and rarely exotic; Chablis is a richer vintage but there is dazzling energy in the

best examples; Mâcons are generous but show an amazing vitality and freshness. Reds from the southern Côte de Beaune have a pleasing crunch and a mix of cherry and red fruit; those of the northern Côte de Nuits have a typically richer, darker tone but are uncannily easy-going and supple. This is an easy vintage to love, with wines that will drink well on release and plenty that will cellar well. I agree wholeheartedly with the great Ghislaine Barthod who compares 2022 with the perma-charming 2017s and a little of the richness of the disarming 2019s. Burgundy has suffered with a run of small harvests in recent years, and it has made many of our favourite villages hard to find, while prices have crept up. We are pleased to find that 2022 is a return to more normal levels and many growers were beaming to see their cellars full following the bumper 2023 crop. However, Burgundy will always be a patchwork of vineyards and these annual releases reflect a snapshot of a grower and a year. If you have your favourites, you will already know that you shouldn’t hesitate, and if you are new to Burgundy and buying wines ‘En Primeur’ then 2022 is a great place to start. There really is something for everyone here and it a perfect vintage to learn about the various villages and sub-regions. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

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RICH HISTORY OF A TRUST TREASURE ANDY RICHARDSON CHRONICLES THE LIFE AND TIMES OF STUNNING ATTINGHAM PARK, A JEWEL IN THE NATIONAL TRUST CROWN WITH THE SITE’S HISTORY DATING BACK 4,000 YEARS

t’s a bona fide jewel in the crown. Attingham Park, at Atcham, just outside Shrewsbury, is a glorious and resplendent National Trust property. It was created by the Hill family, later to become the Lords Berwick, in 1700, though its history was 4,000 years in the making. As the National Trust says: “Attingham inspires a sense of beauty, space and awe. The imposing entrance, glimpses of the vast mansion against silhouettes of cedars and expansive parkland, epitomise classical design and Italian influence. Its completeness of survival exemplifies the rise and decline, love and neglect of great country-house estates. “Discovering the Berwicks’ estate with acres of parkland, miles of walks, the huge organic walled garden, large playfield and welcoming mansion is a full day out. “There’s so much to see and do at Attingham, whether you’re a family looking for activities, both inside and out, or simply in search of a traditional visit to an historic house and parkland. Full of life and locally loved, there’s something for 72

n your DOORSTE

everyone all year round.” Attingham’s Estate has been shaped by the rivers that converge on it, the Tern and Severn. The rich productive soil in this fertile valley of the two rivers provided water, food and transport. Attingham’s earliest settlers found this to their liking, with lots of evidence of human activity from Iron Age field systems and Bronze Age barrows to the Roman city of Viroconium (now known as Wroxeter) and Saxon palaces. Built for the first Lord Berwick in 1785, and replacing Tern Hall, Attingham Hall and its beautiful parkland were owned by one family for more than 160 years. As their fortunes rose and fell, the family proved themselves to be spenders, savers and saviours.

The land was bought in 1700 and came indirectly from land taken from Haughmond Abbey. Over the next century, the family added to it until there were over 8,000 acres, extending right up into Shrewsbury. Tern Hall, which was built in the early 1700s was the home of the Hill family. Later, it was incorporated into the ‘new’ mansion built in the 1780s. The family made their money through politics, the acquisition of land, moneylending and mining. The work of the eighth and last Lord Berwick, Thomas, and his wife Teresa, to restore the mansion meant that half of the estate was sold off in the first half of the 20th century, leaving nearly 4,000 acres that are still managed today. It is not just the estate, or house, that inspire. The gardens and grounds are breathtaking, too. The National Trust adds: “It’s over 220 years since the landscape you see at Attingham today was designed by Humphry Repton, the great landscape designer of the late 1700s and early 1800s. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

“Repton worked at Attingham in the earlier stages of his career and his ideas about landscape design continue to influence designers today. “Repton was a designer, presenting his clients with a ‘Red Book’ of paintings and drawings of before, and after, his suggested improvements, he did not oversee the carrying out of the improvements his designs suggested. “Thomas, 2nd Lord Berwick, commissioned Repton in 1797 to work on proposals for his land at Attingham. He was paid a stipend of one hundred guineas a year for two visits. Repton completed his ‘Red Book’ the following year and Thomas went on to carry out a number of his suggestions, such as re-routing the main driveway to the Mansion, to create a more impressive view when approaching it by carriage, on horse, or foot. “Attingham is one of the few landscapes to have Repton’s original ‘Red Book’ of designs in its collection, as well as the majority of his improvement still evident in the landscape today.” In addition to stunning grounds, Attingham Park also houses a huge collection of art and antiques. The National Trust has maintained them over the years. A spokesman said:

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

“Attingham boasts a vast collection of Regency furniture, silver, paintings, porcelain and textiles that reflects the changing fortunes of the property and the collecting habits of the family, who were either big spenders or careful savers. Thomas, 2nd Lord Berwick spent a large part of the family fortune and was bankrupted in 1827. “The sale of his Grand Tour collection lasted 16 days and there was a further sale in 1829. His brother, 3rd Lord Berwick, re-furnished the house following the sales with French and Italian pieces acquired during his post as ambassador in Italy. “The 8th Lord and Lady Berwick made thoughtful additions to the collection and secured its future with the National Trust. Despite difficult times, a remarkable 98% of the collection is indigenous to the house and reflects the lives of those who cherished or neglected Attingham’s contents. “Highlights include a large collection of paintings with 18th-20th century family portraits including works by Angelica Kaufmann, Lawrence, and Sickert; a Grand Tour collection housed in the purpose-built Nash Picture Gallery; the 5th Lord Berwick’s prize-winning Hereford cattle portraits; white and gold

Italian furniture (some of which may have been made for Napoleon’s sister, Caroline Murat); a Samuel Green chamber organ (1788); mahogany furniture and upholstery by Gillows of Lancaster and a large collection of Regency silver by Paul Storr. “The great library assembled by the 1st and 2nd Lords Berwick was massively depleted by the bankruptcy sale, but the house retains a substantial number of early family and legal books, as well as volumes collected by the 3rd Lord Berwick in the nineteenth century, and the 8th and last Lord Berwick in the twentieth.” Fortunately, visitors are able to enjoy the splendour all year round, and the house and gardens are partially open throughout January, before re-opening fully from February 10. n Visit www.nationaltrustcollections. org.uk/place/attingham-park CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP: The Gallery Art Room at Attingham, a Vintage Car Rally is a regular event; the deer are a popular attraction at the National Trust property.

ANTIQUES

Vital Alsar and one of the three galleons from his Atlantic crossing in 1977. Below: the Rolex GMT Master consigned to Halls’ March auction.

A WELL-TRAVELLED WATCH WITH A TALE

alls’ watch specialist, Alexander Clement, takes a look at the extraordinary story behind a fine Rolex timepiece. Pushing the boundaries of human endeavour has been a pursuit of courageous men and women for millennia, ranging from breaking speed records on land and in the air, climbing the highest peaks and venturing into the most inaccessible and hostile places on the planet. And the adventures of these explorers and athletes have captured the imagination of often global audiences. Occasionally we have the opportunity to look at and even handle objects associated with some of these celebrated expeditions, most often in the collections of museums. Sometimes, though, we are lucky enough to find them appearing at auction. At Halls we recently consigned a Rolex GMT Master wristwatch that was owned and worn by the maritime pioneer Vital Alsar. Born in Santander, Spain, in 1933, Vital Alsar Ramirez studied economics and then began his career working in Europe and Canada. But he was fascinated by early oceanic exploration and was much inspired by Thor Heyerdahl’s 1947 crossing of the Pacific between South America and Polynesia on a primitive raft called the Kon-Tiki. This was intended to demonstrate that ancient civilisations 74

were capable of making long sea voyages successfully. Thus [inspired] Vital made a series of Pacific crossings in various craft during the 1960s and 70s. His first, in 1966, set off from Ecuador using a raft constructed from balsa wood but was shipwrecked after only 90 days. His next attempt in 1970 on a similar raft, called ‘La Balsa’, successfully saw Vital Alsar reach Mooloolaba in Australia after 163 days at sea, having travelled over 8,500 nautical miles. He led a further successful mission in 1973, this time on three rafts, and then in 1977 built three small brigs in Guayaquil which he and his crew sailed down the Amazon river and then across the Atlantic to reach Santander, a distance of 11,000 nautical miles.

Alsar’s expeditions attracted not only media attention but interest from the Swiss watchmaker Rolex, who became an unofficial supporter. Vital had worn a Rolex GMT Master on his journey aboard ‘La Balsa’ and the company were delighted to send him replacement watches whenever he needed them. He was even featured prominently in one of their advertising campaigns, such was the interest his maritime journeys had generated. The example that Halls have consigned was that worn by Vital in 1977 during his Amazon and Atlantic voyage aboard the three hand-built galleons. The watch was later given as a gift to his brother who handed it down to his daughter, Vital’s niece, and now the time has come to part with it. Vital favoured the GMT Master watch, designed to allow up to three time zones to be read simultaneously, and was an indispensable navigational tool for the explorer. This stainless steel example with the ‘Pepsi’ red and blue bezel is now a design classic. The model is highly collectable, like most Rolexes, and it is the vintage examples from the 1960s and 70s that can command the highest prices at auction. But this example, with such fascinating provenance, is sure to attract a great deal of attention when it goes under the hammer in March. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

FREE VALUATIONS OF ANTIQUES, FINE ART & JEWELLERY Our valuers are available every week for free valuations and advice about selling at auction. To book your appointment:

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Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, St Petersburg A porcelain dinner plate from the ‘Raphael Service’ - Period of Alexander III, dated 1891

DIAMONDS STILL A SALE FAVOURITE

hey traditionally say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend and dogs are a man’s best friend, and bidders at Trevanion Auctioneers hugely popular Fine Art and Antiques auction in November certainly seemed to agree with this sentiment with both diamonds and dogs among the top prices achieved over the two-day auction. Day one of the auction saw the fine silver, jewellery and watches categories go under the hammer with some recordbreaking results. Highlights of the jewellery section included a stunning late 19th century diamond set tiara, beautifully presented in its original case. Consigned to the auction by a Welsh vendor, the tiara was estimated at £8,000-£12,000. Amelia Tomkinson FGA, who runs the jewellery department, said: “There is something incredibly magical about tiaras which I love, they represent a time and place in society in the early 20th century where it was the epitome of elegance to have and wear a tiara. Luckily jewellers in the early 20th century knew that it was important to have flexibility in a piece such as this, and wonderfully, this tiara also converted into a very wearable necklace.” The piece was hotly contested by potential buyers both in the room and on the telephone before selling to the room bidder for £12,000 plus buyer’s premium. The tiara was swiftly followed by another of the day’s highlights as a two-stone diamond ring secured the top hammer price of the day at £26,000 plus buyer’s premium. The ring was a particularly lovely example of a ‘Toi et Moi’ ring, literally translating as ‘you and me’, the magnificent piece featured two particularly well-matched pear cut diamonds within a cross-over setting. The ‘Toi et Moi’ setting became famous in 1796, when Napoleon Bonaparte proposed to Josephine de Beauharnais with a ring in a similar design. Traditionally they feature two different stones in matching sizes and cuts in a style which is highly romantic and symbolises two entities meeting as one. Amelia explains: “The pear cut diamond is historically worth more than its brilliant cut equivalent because there is a lot more wastage when cutting

A two-stone diamond ring secured the top hammer price of the day at £26,000 plus buyer’s premium

a pear-shaped diamond, therefore it is more expensive to produce, this particular example was early 20th century in date and the setting was exquisite.” Consigned to the auction by a Cheshire client and holding a pre-sale estimate of £15,000-£20,000 the ring was consistently one of the most popular lots in the run-up to the auction, but smashed its estimate before finally selling for £26,000. Of the auction, Managing Partner Christina Trevanion said: “I’m incredibly proud of my team following this auction, which firmly cements us as the one of the premier jewellery auction houses within the UK. We provide the customer service you would expect from a local business, yet with an international platform on which to market your goods and harnessing the latest technology. “The market is particularly buoyant for antique jewellery, silver and watches at the moment, and I would urge anyone

who is considering having their pieces valued to book an appointment with us today.” Other highlights included an emerald and diamond ring which sold for £13,000 plus buyer’s premium, and a gentleman’s Rolex watch which sold for £8,000. The paintings also provided some impressive results including two pictures by the esteemed animalier artist Arthur Wardle (1864-1949). Discovered in the attic of a Telford vendor, the paintings depicted Bulldogs and were typical of the artist whose prolific oeuvre focused on his lifelong fascination with dogs of various breeds, creating rich naturalistic paintings. Wardle exhibited at the Royal Academy at the tender age of 16 and today his work can be found amongst the collection of the Tate Gallery and The Kennel Club. The oil on canvas bulldog paintings were hotly contested, reaching a combined hammer price of £4,600 plus buyers premium.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

WALK

A WAR POET’S WALK ANDY RICHARDSON DISCOVERS HOW TOWN HELPED TO SHAPE THE LIFE OF WILFRED OWEN

ilfred Owen is widely recognised as one of the greatest voices of the First World War. He was born in Oswestry, and brought up in Birkenhead and Shrewsbury. Although he spent only a few years of his life in Oswestry, his family history goes back generations and his grandfather was once mayor of the town. Visitors who want to know more about his life in the town can walk the Wilfred Owen Town Trail which features places that featured in his life. His self-appointed task was to speak for the men in his care, to show the ‘Pity of War’. Owen’s enduring and influential poetry is evidence of his bleak realism, his energy and indignation, his compassion and his great technical skill. At the time of his death he was virtually unknown – only four of his poems were published during his lifetime – but he had always been determined to be a poet, and had experimented with verse from an early age. The tour around Oswestry includes key areas like Broad Walk, Cae Glas Park, Cross Street, Bailey Street, Albion Hill, Bailey Head, Coney Green Street and other parts of the town, including Wilfred Owen Green. St Oswald’s Church is important because in 1891, Susan Shaw looked to marry the man she loved, Tom Owen. Family finances were ebbing away, her beloved mother Mary has just died, and there was a desperate need for some stability in the family. And so, on December 8, Susan, still in grief, wore black at the wedding and was married at St. Oswald’s. Wilfred later became the eldest of their four children. In the far right-hand corner of the church is St. George’s Chapel dedicated to soldiers killed in wartime. Nearby at Breadwalk, the Wilfred Owen steel plaque was commissioned by the Wilfred Owen Association in 1993 to mark the centenary of his birth. It is engraved with two of Wilfred’s most famous poems: Anthem for Doomed Youth and Futility.

The Wilfred Owen statue in Cae Glas park

The striking stone bench was designed and made by local stonemason, Mark Evans. At the commemoration of the plaque, poet Ted Hughes – a great admirer of Wilfred Owen – read from Futility. A key site on the trail is the WWI/ WWII Memorial. An extensive restoration of Oswestry’s fine War Memorial was unveiled in August 2014. The front of the pillars commemorate those Oswestry men who died in WWI, with WWII commemorated on the reverse, just inside the gates. Also inside, to the left, is a memorial to those men who worked for the Cambrian Railways killed in WWI. It’s a most graceful work by sculptor Allen G Wyon. The piece, originally sited at the Railway Station, was moved to the park and re-dedicated in 1975.

St Oswald’s Church

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Girls 3-18, Boys 3-13

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01691 773671 | admin@moretonhall.com Moreton Hall, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3EW

An Independent Day School for Boys and Girls ages 4 – 18 years

Join us for our Junior School Open Morning Saturday 27th January (Year 1 to 6) Last chance to register for Year 7 entry: Entrance Tests on 18th and 19th January Register via our website wgs.org.uk/open-days Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 9RB Registered charity (England and Wales no. 1125268)

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EDUCATION

CROSS COUNTRY SUCCESS FOR TEAM

ross Country is a popular choice at Haberdashers’ Adams, under the stewardship of Robin Sedman Smith who has guided the squad since 2005 and is himself a stalwart of the Newport & District Running Club. The squad are enjoying a very successful season.

Telford Schools Cross Country League Throughout September and October, thirty-nine boys from Haberdashers’ Adams competed in the four races that make up the Telford Schools Cross Country League. The Year 9 team were convincing winners of their age category in the league, winning all four races. Individual success was achieved by Jonathan Yang in Year 7, finishing 1st or 2nd in all of his races, and Ian Wang in Year 8 who won all four of his age group races.

English Schools Cross Country Cup, Round 1 - Shropshire In October, Haberdashers’ Adams hosted the Shropshire competition in the grounds of Longford Hall, home to the junior boarders and extensive playing fields. 82

Haberdasher’s Adams qualified 1st and 2nd in the Junior and Intermediate categories respectively. Teams are made up of six runners with the best four scoring. The U14 Junior age group (Years 7 and 8) run 2,500m while the U16 Intermediate age group (Years 9 and 10) run 4,400m.

Round 2 - West Central Regional Finals In November, 11 boys competed in the West Central Regional Finals of the

English Schools Cross Country Cup held at Bromsgrove School. The boys performed exceptionally well and both the Junior team and Intermediate team finished 3rd and qualified for the National Finals. Ian Wang in Year 8 narrowly missed out on finishing 1st in the Junior race. The teams beat off tough competition from the best cross-country runners of six counties in the region. This is only the second time that two teams from Haberdashers’ Adams have reached the finals. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Make Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College (HLNSC) your next step. With five colleges across the region, and over 300 courses to choose from, including A Levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships and higher education, we’ve got something for everyone!

Ludlow Sixth Form College boasts a 98.9% pass rate and many of our students go on to achieve outstanding results at the country’s best universities. Or you might find what you need at one of our other colleges: Herefordshire College

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Land-Based Colleges: Holme Lacy and Walford

Easily commutable from Ludlow, Herefordshire College is close to the town centre and transport links. It offers a wide range of education and training options, from foundation studies through to degree level courses, apprenticeships, work-based training and more.

Our Oswestry-based college has a great choice of vocational courses delivered in professional environments with top-of-therange facilities including a professional teaching restaurant, hair and beauty salons and more. We’ll be opening new plumbing and electrical workshops, beauty salons and a science lab later this year.

Interested in a career in agriculture? Forestry? Blacksmithing? Horse riding or eventing? Animal care? Our two land-based campuses, Holme Lacy College near Hereford, and Walford College in North Shropshire, boast large arable, dairy, beef and sheep training farms, alongside equestrian centres and collections of domestic and exotic animals and more.

Browse our courses and apprenticeships on our website hlnsc.ac.uk

Traditional Values Modern Approach

Open Week 22-25 January • A leading selective state grammar school • Co-educational with boarding for boys • Affordable boarding from £4,619 per term • Stunning boarding house set in 100 acres • Extensive sport and extra-curricular activities • Strong pupil welfare system • Outstanding alternative to the independent sector

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“Throughout the school, pupils’ behaviour is of the highest order. A natural respect and politeness is evident in all ages.” “Pupils make outstanding progress in the development of their knowledge, skills and understanding.”

“Excellent in all areas” INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTION REPORT 2023

Come and see what makes Prestfelde one of the UK’s leading prep-schools for 3-13 year old boys and girls

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TRANSFORMING EDUCATION Come and join us.

Please contact us to make your appointment for a one-to-one tour

An independent school for boys and girls aged 4-18 Bedstone College | Bucknell Shropshire | SY7 0BG admissions@bedstone.org 01547 530961 | www.bedstone.org

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS SINCE 1602

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

SCHOOL WELCOMES NEW HEADTEACHER

irchfield School, nestled on the Shropshire Staffordshire border just outside of Albrighton, is welcoming a new Headmistress, Amy Jones. Strictly speaking, staff don’t need to welcome her, as Amy is a popular Birchfield School teacher, who has spent 14 years at the school and has been the Head of the Preparatory School for the past few years. However, we thought it would be good to catch up with Amy, during her busy day and gain a little more insight into the mind of a Headmistress.

So, why did you become a teacher?

“I became a teacher because I wanted to inspire, motivate and encourage all to achieve their potential. Being a teacher gives you the chance to make a difference in a person’s life. “Anyone who thinks with fondness of a great teacher will appreciate the lasting effect that they had on their life. I love working with children and bringing out the best in them – tapping into their strengths and passions. These may not necessarily be in the classroom, but out on the sports field, or up on the stage, here at Birchfield School we encourage our pupils and students to develop their talents wherever they lie.”

time. It was a time of innocence, a very different world from the world of today. I like to think Birchfield School captures some of the best parts of that feeling, with its emphasis on kindness and politeness, set against the backdrop of our glorious Arts and Crafts main house.”

Who would you most like to have dinner with?

What’s the best part of your job? “I love watching the children on their journey as they flourish, seeing confidence and success develop in all they do. Many of our children start with us in our on-site nursery, Prepcare, and go all the way through to Senior School. Watching them transform from little children into young adults is wonderful.”

What’s your favourite book and why?

“I started teaching as a history teacher, and it was the book ‘Little Women’ that ignited my passion for history. The period details in the book, from the clothing to the houses, capture the essence of the

“My primary school teachers who inspired me to want to teach. Teachers can have such a powerful influence in our lives, I would love to thank them and tell them how much they inspired me, and how I am so grateful to have a career that I love. And maybe we could exchange some top teaching tips!”

What makes Birchﬁeld School so special?

“Birchfield School has an incredible atmosphere, it combines the best parts of a traditional school, with a caring, supportive and family-focused ethos. Just driving up to the school brings a smile to my face, with the beautiful tree-lined drive, and the acres of green space, playing fields and trees that surround the classrooms. At Birchfield School, we all know one another, look out for one another and care for one another – much like the siblings in Little Women.”

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

AIMING TO HELP ALL GIRLS THRIVE

n a bespoke event dedicated to exploring girls’ education, Shrewsbury High School Head Darren Payne, Head of Juniors Kate Millichamp and Dr Kevin Stannard, the Director of Innovation and Learning at the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), explored the differences that a girls-first ecosystem can make to girls’ confidence, careers, and skills and how a girls-only approach in schools that are designed solely with them in mind can help a girl thrive. Dr Stannard referenced the themes and explored the data trends of the landmark national research, The Girls’ Futures Report, which surveyed girls aged 9-18 from across England and Wales on how they see their futures, how they feel about the world and what they need education to deliver. The overarching findings that the research concluded was that pupils who attend all-girls schools, and particularly GDST schools, are more confident about their future and feel more prepared to lead lives without limits than girls at other schools across the UK. The qualitative research in The Girls’ Futures Report reflects the student voice at all stages of an educational journey and the data highlights the lived and experienced benefits of a girls-only tuition throughout Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The report highlights how GDST Junior Schools build up the reservoir of resilience that is needed when girls move through the teenage years, which is important, as choices, dispositions and behaviours have already been formed by the end of year 6. For example, at age nine, two thirds of girls give up physical activity and 37 per cent of girls avoid some activities because of their gender. This compares to only six per cent of GDST girls who would avoid hobbies, activities and subjects on account of gender. They are also far more comfortable taking risks and are more positive about the future. Speaking on the impact of the wider world on girls’ education, Dr Stannard emphasised the importance of designing a system that supports young women and ensures equality of opportunity. In the GDST’s report, he states: “‘Girls’ lived experiences are different from boys’. As girls develop into women, 88

they face discrete societal expectations and life choices that will inevitably have an impact on the paths they take. This is a fact, borne out by the voices in this survey, and it needs to be explicitly implemented and reflected in certain areas of girls’ education and learning design.” Darren Payne and Kate Millichamp elaborated on the school’s bespoke and pioneering approach including the life skills and enrichment programme Period X and the Junior School’s Speak Up initiative. Dr Stannard also rejects common arguments put forward by co-ed schools. “Some proponents of coeducational schooling have argued that schools should reflect society in their gender composition. But schools should be set up to challenge, not simply to reflect and reinforce, the gender asymmetries that still pervade the wider world.

“Single-sex education serves a subversive purpose: GDST schools seek to challenge traditional gender stereotypes, give girls space to develop a strong sense of themselves and their value, and nurture the confidence to make their own choices, free of any sense that the script has been written for them. As day schools, they offer a girls-only space to complement the rest of a girl’s lifeworld – which by all accounts does not exclude boys.” In the words of one year 12 GDST student, “The lasting legacy for me of having attended a girls’ school is a sense of community and confidence in how powerful and caring a group of girls can be without the fear of judgement.” n Arrange your visit now at www. shrewsburyhigh.gdst.net to see the difference a school designed solely for girls could make for your daughter.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

READY STEADY GIRL

"Pupils are enthusiastic, ambitious, self-motivated and willing to take risks with their learning. They are highly articulate, share their ideas willingly and listen respectfully to each other." (ISI Inspection 2023) Year 7 & Year 9 Entrance Assessments - Saturday 20th January Apply now at shrewsburyhigh.gdst.net

Day and Boarding Prep School for girls and boys aged 4-13

Excellent in all Areas

ISI Inspection 2023

Visit Packwood packwood-haugh.co.uk/admissions admissions@packwood-haugh.co.uk | 01939 260 217

SOCIAL SCENE

Meeting coaches at Telford Amateur Boxing Club.

Attending the Remembrance Day service in Ironbridge.

HIGH SHERIFF’S DIARY Mandy Thorn MBE DL Supporting Shrewsbury Poppy Day with the RBL.

Attending the remembrance service in Ironbridge.

Meeting Alzheimers Research UK volunteers at Origins in Shrewsbury.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Towards the end of the year, we came together both to remember the sacriﬁce of those who died serving this wonderful country – and to look forward to the festive season and the way Christmas can bring us all together, writes Mandy Thorn. I was honoured to meet members of the Royal British Legion behind the Poppy Appeal in Shrewsbury, and then to remember the fallen at a very moving and powerful Remembrance Day service in Ironbridge. It was also a great pleasure to play my part in the switching on of the Rotary Club’s Tree of Light in Telford, which not only celebrates Christmas and remembers those who are no longer with us, but raises so much vital cash for charity. These events – and my regular meetings with people going the extra mile for their communities across Shropshire – reminds me of just what a special place this county is. Pictures supplied

At the Shrewsbury Community Foundation lawyers dinner at Cound Hall.

Telford Tree of Light switching on.

Charity Ball Organising Committee Paula Lucas, Katy Bickerton, Chris Bickerton, Sara Jones, Zella Griﬃths.

Nikki Anderson, Ian Anderson, Ian Yapp, Kieron Anderson, Gemma Anderson, Dr Conrad Stein.

THE BLOOD BIKE BALL The Shrewsbury golf club

Helen Johnson, Steve Johnson, Cheryl Bickerton, Jay Bickerton.

Andy Dixon, Donna Dixon, Alan Crump, Caroline Crump, Emma Johnson, Frank Whitley.

Richard Shropshire, Adrian Ralph, Ann Hill, Phillip Wood, Anne-Marie Baldwin, Jack Baldwin, Carl Alliott.

Over 80 local businesses donated prizes and funding for the Autumn Shropshire, Staﬀordshire and Cheshire Blood Bike Ball held at The Shrewsbury Golf Club in Condover, raising the magniﬁcent total of £25,024.29. Five friends came together to raise money for the Blood Bikes following a party the previous year and discovered not many people had heard of the charity. Enjoyment and raising awareness was the aim of the evening, together with the chance of bidding for some once-in-a-lifetime auction prizes. The evening started with a champagne reception, generously sponsored by WR Partners. After dinner, Lynne Stone, the Vice Chair of the charity, gave an enlightening talk about the life-saving work of the Blood Bike teams. Chris Bickerton, a Blood Bike member and Volunteer Instructor with the Institute of Advanced Motorists, was the host and auctioneer and the evening ended on a high with guests dancing the night away to live band ‘The Ronaldos’. Pictures: Tony Gordon, Shutter Mayhem

Robbie Bruce, Chris Bickerton.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Tracey Lewis, David Lewis, Sharon McCloughlin, Mike McCloughlin, Davina Oakley, Mike Oakley.

Susan Westwood, Chloe Balcombe, Jamie D’Arcy, Dawn McCurdy, Frances Crozier, Andy Lawrence, Paula Lucas, Frances Berger-North, Andy Berger-North, Helen Creek, Steve Richley.

Anne Mottershead, David Mottershead.

Graham Newton, Director of Shrewsbury Golf Club.

Chloe Balcombe, Jamie D’Arcy.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Joe Collins, Mags Cousins.

Trustee and rider Francis Crozier.

Michael Brown (rider), Lynne Stone (Vice Chair), Francis Crozier (trustee & rider), Pam Hillier (Membership Secretary and trustee), Chris Hyde (rider), Helen Bundy (controller), Sam Collins (controller).

John Gough and Gina DiMitri, organisers of the event.

Emma Furnival, Sarah Clark, Paul Clark.

CHARITY CHEESE & WINE Ellerton Hall

Paul Holt, Ruth Taylor, Celia Payne, Lynn Holt, Martin Taylor.

The owners of a luxury holiday home near Newport welcomed guests to a charity event. Hosted by John and Lucy Gough, owners of Ellerton Hall, the evening raised money for Lingen Davies Cancer Fund and Shropshire Stroke Association. A hundred guests attended the Tanners Wine and Moydens Cheese tasting event which has been hailed great success. Property and events manager Gina DiMitri said: “Everyone enjoyed the evening and were very impressed by the renovation of the home and the interior design.” Photos: Paul Quinn

Myles, from Tanners, serving guests.

Alastair Mackintosh, Tanya Wilson, Adam Sansom, Andrea Maccioni, Gary Brisbourne, Richard Harper, Taven Harper.

John and Lucy Gough, owners of Ellerton Hall.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Rupert Holmes, Lucy Gough, Susan Holmes.

Louise Costelloe, Karen Hamer, Tori Russell, Nicola Vanhoven, Alison Gaddes.

Claire Lindsay and Gina DiMitri.

Martin Moyden, Sascha and Martin Thomas.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Gary Mountford, Julie Ward, Liz Mountford, Glenn Ward, Deb Sutherland and Michael Hendry

John Harper, Martin Hughes, Vanessa Gin, Martin Thomas, Mary Harper, Sascha Thomas.

John Gough, David and Alison Hodson, Peter Maher, Steve Woodhouse.

Kim and Andy Clarkson, Jonathon and Karen Martin.

Diana Chadwick, Jean Barlow, Julie Lewis, Katie Foster.

Julie Wiggin and Sarah Lowe.

POSH FROCKS CHARITY DINNER Hadley Park House hotel

Nicky Purcell, Margaret Chamberlain and Alison Wood.

Jeevan Punj, Rosalie Arran, Jane Ward and Carole Aveson.

More than 80 guests attended the Posh Frocks Charity Dinner at Hadley Park House Hotel in Telford. The event raised more than £3,000 for the Shropshire Branch of Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK). Organiser Kim Gilmour said: “Guests were entertained by magician Paul Ray, who regularly appears at ARUK Shropshire events and then enjoyed a three-course meal followed by the Grand Hamper Prize Draw which raised over £1,400. “Added to this were sales from ARUK Christmas cards, an auction of a piece of art and match funding from two businesses of £1,600, making a grand total of £3,204.” Photos: Jamie Ricketts

Wendy Carpenter and Zoe Slattery.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Linda Hood, Chris Morrison, Cathy Lowe and Carol Pritchard.

Alison Wood, Kim Gilmour, Emily Marren and Cheryl Marren.

Susan Lay, Shelagh Keane, Vicky Fisher, Rachel Best and Jackie Duce.

Sarah Hayes, Julie Lewis, Adriana Hodges, Diana Chadwick, Jean Barlow and Sharon Griﬃths.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Louise Alexander, Judith Partridge, Samantha Lane and Rachel Tyrrell.

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TRAVEL

LIFE’S A BEACH ON ISLAND PARADISE LAUREN TAYLOR DISCOVERS THAT NORTHWEST JAMAICA IS IDEAL FOR A WINTER SUN ESCAPE DURING A STAY AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED MONTEGO BAY’S GRAND PALLADIUM RESORT & SPA

Top: The Grand Palladium Resort & Spa. Above: Lauren Taylor relaxes at the bar

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

professional diver balances on his toes on a 35ft high ledge. With his back to the ocean, he takes a sharp breath in and executes a perfect reverse pike dive into the cove of bright turquoise water below. This picturesque, lifeguarded spot in Negril, northwest Jamaica, is Instagramfamous for cliff jumping – although most people don’t attempt the highest spot. I gingerly jump from the five-foot platform before watching the pros – and the brave – from a table at Rick’s Cafe, with Negril Lighthouse blinking in the distance. This part of Jamaica is perhaps best known for its seven-mile beach lined with laid back beach clubs serving cocktails and fresh coconut water straight from the shell. The waters are shallow and as clear as they come, the sand is a perfect pale yellow, and sellers offer up the most random of things as they make their way down the shoreline. Live lobster anyone?

Jamaica’s beaches really are the stuff of legends. Further east, at the head of Montego Bay in an area known as ‘the Hip Strip’, is Doctor’s Cave Beach, once owned by Dr Alexander McCatty. The (then) tiny beach was entered into via a cave and in the early 1920s a British osteopath declared that the waters cured ailments and that a dip here transformed his health – kicking off the area’s tourist trade. In 1932, a hurricane destroyed the cave and blew the beach wide open, and now the Doctor’s Cave Bathing Club (£6.43 entry for adults, £3.21 for children) is a picturesque spot to spend an afternoon. We order rum punch (naturally) and wade into the balmy Jamaican sea. The waters here are said to stay between 22 and 28 degrees C, and it’s really noticeable – I’ve never swam in sea so warm. Jamaica is hot and humid year-round, 99

with highs of 31 degrees C and lows of 22 over December and January, making it ideal for a winter sun break. (You’ll likely see some rain in October and May, but tropical showers clear quickly.) It would be all too easy to never leave the all-inclusive Grand Palladium Resort and Spa, where I’m staying. At Sunset Cove, pale sand wraps a large cove of shallow water making it an epic place to swim. There’s a shack serving up freshly BBQ’d jerk chicken right on the beach some of the best food in the hotel – and a bar. I spend whole days here, reading under the shade of palm trees and swimming late into the evening. There are four beaches within the five-star hotel (which shares all facilities with sister hotel Lady Marmalade), including a small, secluded adults’ only one hidden behind an over-18s pool and bar. The pool has a certain amount of majesty too, curving around the grand pillars of the entire main building, boosting a whooping 4,500 square metres of water. It’s vying for the title of the country’s biggest pool and holiday-makers would be hard-pressed to find a better one. The shallow waters around the edge are dotted with sunken loungers in front of picture-perfect palm trees against the deep blue sky. A £20 million renovation of the entire property has turned the 15-yearold hotel from more traditional Jamaican interiors of reds, greens and yellow, to calming whites, neutrals and black accents, matching the grand colonialstyle frontage. My room – a junior suite with ocean view – is vast, and the style is sleek and clean. There are 48 new swim-up rooms too, with private plunge pools. An open-air terrace with sweeping 180-degree ocean views is now a sleek bar. With 10 restaurants – seven of which are a la carte – and a comprehensive activity offering, it’s a place for people

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who prioritise space (it covers 9.5 hectares with 537 rooms) relaxing and evening entertainment that is actually worth staying awake for – think live local music, DJs, a silent disco and some seriously impressive dancers/gymnasts spinning fire on the beach. The hotel’s spa is one of its best features. My masseuse, Tanya, goes to town on the knots in my back before I brave the cold plunge pool (to some curious looks), followed by the hot tub, steam room and lazy river winding through trees. It wouldn’t be a luxury Caribbean trip

without a private catamaran tour though. Captain Jamil steers our boat west of Montego Bay, while tunes play and the sun beats down. Once you get away from the hotels that line the shores of Montego Bay and out towards Lucea – a small, working village – the coast is beautifully dotted with colourful homes and wooden shack eateries, pretty coves with perfect sand and not a tourist in sight. Down the coast, the catamaran pulls into Bull’s Bay, and I dive into the sparkling turquoise water. “Rum punch? Red Stripe?” one of

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Page 100, clockwise from the top: The Grand Palladian Resort & Spa; one of the resort’s beaches; Jerk cooking at Scotchies Restaurant. This page: A catamaran oﬀ the resort; a junior suite at the resort

the shipmen, Ricky, calls from the boat. It turns out bobbing around using a lifejacket as a float while sipping a cold beer is an excellent way to enjoy this spot. A group of local kids swim over on pieces of long bamboo to say hello, and it feels like we’re far from the tourist hotspots and luxury hotels – many of which were once sugar plantations. In Montego Bay itself, Jamaica’s third most populous city, the copper-domed Civil Centre sits on the corner of Sam Sharpe Square, once the site of a colonial courthouse where the enslaved leader of the Baptist War (1831-32) rebellion,

Sharpe, was sentenced to death. The museum gives a comprehensive overview of the country’s history of slavery (the majority of which was conducted by the British after the invasion in 1655), the people’s liberation movement, as well as the history of Rastafarianism which started in Jamaica in the 1930s before it was adopted by many different groups around the world. Jerk, with a rich history on this island, is almost a way of life here – along with Bob Marley of course, whose music seems to pump from every radio, suitability soundtracking my trip. And a short

drive away (past a huge bronze statue of world-record-holding sprinter Usain Bolt in St John’s Square) is Scotchies, where succulent whole chickens (JD$700/£3.65 for a quarter jerk chicken) and huge sides of pork are grilled over wood and smoke, under a corrugated metal covering, and served up in baskets along with rice and peas, yams and festivals – a type of deepfried bread. Needing a break from the beating sun, we climb aboard bamboo rafts and wind down the Martha Brae river, shaded by tall trees along the banks, while our ‘captain’ expertly punts our small raft five kilometres downstream. Apparently Queen Elizabeth II once sat on one of these rafts and floated down the Brae too – I imagine with more cushioning. Even here, a couple of sellers have set up tiny huts scooping drinks into plastic cups to hand to raft passengers. In Jamaica, it feels like you’re never too far from someone calling, “Rum punch?”

FACTFILE Rooms at Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa (palladiumhotelgroup.com) cost from $215/£175.80 per room per night on an all-inclusive basis.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

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MOTORING

ESTATE OF THE ART HAS REAL PRESENCE THE NEW PEUGEOT 308E SW EXPANDS ON THE SPACE OF THE REGULAR ELECTRIC E-308. WHAT DOES IT BRING TO THE TABLE? JACK EVANS PUTS THE ESTATE VERSION TO THE TEST.

f you’re after a battery-powered estate car, there aren’t too many choices out there, but Peugeot might have the answer with the new e-308 SW. It builds on the regular hatchback e-308, but adds more boot space which could help make it a more viable option for drivers who need a little extra space. Fortunately, it’s still got all of the latest technology and features that we’ve found in the ‘regular’ e-308, so it could prove to be the ideal everyday EV.

What’s new?

As you might expect, this estate is all about practicality. A slightly longer wheelbase means that the 308’s boot space has been increased to 548 litres with the seats in place. It’s more than the 479 litres you’ll find in the MG5, in fact, and can be increased up to 1,574 litres if you fold down the rear seats. It’s less, however, than the boot space you’d get from a petrol or diesel 308 SW. Elsewhere, we’ve got a range of useful features such as Peugeot’s latest i-Cockpit system, which brings a compact steering wheel and new 3D digital dials which can 102

be configured at the touch of a button.

What’s under the bonnet?

There’s a 51kWh battery bringing a range of 255 miles from a charge. It’s not the longest of ranges – particularly compared with long-distance models like the Tesla Model Y or BMW i5 – but a smaller battery means lower weight and improved efficiency. Linked to a 154bhp electric motor, this setup can power the e-308 SW from 0-60mph in 9.6 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 106mph. It’s got a maximum charge rate of 100kW, too, which means a 20 to 80 per cent charge could be conducted in 28 minutes. Plus, with an 11kW onboard charger, hooking the e-308 up to a 7.4kW home charger will see a full charge finished in seven hours and 20 minutes, so more than quick enough for an overnight fill-up.

What’s it like to drive?

Peugeot has taken a more comfortfocused approach with its latest electric vehicles, shunning the trend for overly powerful EVs in favour of models which deliver a more refined, easy-going

experience. That’s certainly the story here as with well-judged suspension which soaks up lumps and bumps, it’s a car which feels reassuringly comfortable. There are no quirky acceleration ‘noises’ piped in, either, while the light steering gives the e-308 enough agility to make around-town driving a breeze. A slight increase in wheelbase over the hatchback version seems to have only boosted the 308’s comfort levels and the isolation of outside noises is really impressive – this is one really quiet electric vehicle. Even at speed, both wind and road sounds are kept to a minimum.

How does it look?

We’d argue that Peugeot is on something of a roll when it comes to the look of its latest cars. It feels like the French firm has found its verve once again, creating cars that stand out from the crowd without being too chintzy. The e-308 SW, being a swept-back estate, looks even more dramatic than the hatch version in our eyes, particularly in the more distinctive colours such as blue and green which Peugeot offers within the 308’s available colour palette. JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

You’ve also got Peugeot’s latest ‘claw’ headlights which have been put to striking effect across the entire range, while the company’s new ‘shield’ logo is at the front and rear too. It’s all being used in an effort to push the brand into a more premium sector.

What’s it like inside?

That premium feel continues inside, in fact, with plenty of good materials being used throughout the e-308 SW’s interior. There are some scratchier plastics to be found lower down the cabin, but these are in the areas which often get scuffed or marked by shoes, so it’s a good idea to have harder-wearing materials down here. The seats in our GT-specification car were comfortable, too, though oddly incorporated electric controls for height but manual adjustment to slide forward and back. We’ve already mentioned the e-308 SW’s well-sized boot, while those in the rear car are given a decent amount of space though headroom might feel a bit of a pinch for taller occupants. The entire cabin can seem a bit dark, mind you, with the black seats and black trim not giving the e-308 SW’s interior an overly airy feel.

What’s the spec like?

We’ve yet to be given full pricing for

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

the e-308 SW, but we have it on good authority that you can expect a £1,000 to £1,500 premium over the equivalent e-308 hatch. That would put it in the area of £41,000, which is quite a chunk of cash for a car with this kind of range. Having said that, there’s plenty of equipment on offer including a large main screen with customisable ‘i-toggles’ underneath. These allow you to program in your most-used functions so they’re easy to access as and when you need them. The i-Cockpit system continues to be a bone of contention for this tester, however. The compact steering wheel means, at our seat height, the steering wheel needs to be lowered more than comfortably in order to see the main information dials. Put it where we’d like it and the dials would be completely obscured – it’s a slightly frustrating issue and one which is present on all Peugeots. However, it is entirely dependent on your height – so make sure you test-drive one to see how it works for you.

Verdict

One of the best aspects of the e-308 SW is how ‘normal’ it feels. If you’re new to electric vehicles and yet to make the jump, this could be one of the best cars for the job as the steering, ride and handling all feel wonderfully intuitive.

There’s a good amount of range, too, while charging speeds are more than enough to get along with day-to-day. We’d be choosing this SW over the regular hatch, too. If, as Peugeot alludes to, it’ll cost around £1,500 more then why not have the extra space? The extra length on the wheelbase seems to add an extra degree of comfort to the ride quality, making the e-308 SW a very cosseting way of getting around.

AT A GLANCE Peugeot E-308 SW Price: £41,000 (estimated) Engine: Electic motor Power: 154 bhp Max speed: 106mph limited 0-62mph: 9.6seconds Combined mpg: NA Emissions: 0g/km Range: 255 miles Max charging rate: 100kW

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NOSTALGIA

Children who certainly loved the snowy weather were these pupils of Monkhopton Primary School, near Bridgnorth, who were allowed home early because of transport problems in January 1979.

Miss C Corﬁeld, of Severn Terrace, Bridgnorth, was cleaning up after ﬂooding in Bridgnorth in January 1968.

NEW YEAR BRINGS WINTERY WEATHER BY HEATHER LARGE

J Demolition work in progress at Watling Street, Wellington. Telford United Football Club buildings were pulled down to improve approaches to the club and the local amenities in January 1978.

anuary means the start of a new year and the perfect opportunity to look back and reflect on times gone by and look to the future. This selection of photos gives a glimpse into daily life around Shropshire during this month in past decades. The weather in January can be cold and wet and sometimes it will also bring snow. In 1968, downpours led to flooding in Bridgnorth and residents were left mopping up after the River Severn burst its banks.

But in 1979, the seasonal weather brought joy to pupils at Monkhopton Primary School, near Bridgnorth, who made the most of being allowed home early to go sledging while an ice sculpture was created by a mystery artist in Cluddley, Telford. January is also time for new beginnings; in Ludlow the construction of a new Gateway supermarket brought the promise of new jobs, while the owner of the McConnels was looking forward to the completion of an extension to the factory.

Members of the Green Goddess Army team at Parsons Barracks, Donnington, Telford, relaxing after their stand-down from ﬁreﬁghting service in January 1978. From the left are: Private Alan Harrison, Private Terry Viney, Private “Parsley” Parsons, Private “Oscar” Singh, Private John Simpson, Sergeant Trevor Bozie (sic), and Private John Overall.

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JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Mr Patrick Campbell, of McConnels, Ludlow, standing by the giant framework that formed part of the factory’s extensions in January 1975.

An ice sculpture by an unknown artist at Cluddley on January 22, 1979.

Members and oﬃcers of Wrekin District Council with Coal Board safety oﬃcer Mr George Clarke after their visit below ground at Granville Colliery, Telford, in January 1976.

Councillor Peter Gibbons, left, chairman of The Wrekin District Council, shakes hands with housing committee chairman Councillor Joe Gittens, who had ceremonially ‘taken over’ one of the 15 council houses built in Regent Street, Wellington, in January 1975.

SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

Work was well under way on the 10,000sq ft Gateway supermarket at Galdeford, Ludlow, which was provide up to 70 jobs in 1987.

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PUZZLES

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2 3 7

8 9 2 1 4 2 7 8 9 2 1 5 8 1 8 6 3 4 9 9 8 6 4

4 8 3 5 6 9 1 7

REMEMBER WHEN THE FOLLOWING EVENTS ALL OCCURRED IN A YEAR IN LIVING MEMORY. CAN YOU GUESS WHICH ONE?

FOUR WS 1

WHO... was the Roman equivalent of Athena, goddess of wisdom? WHAT... insect does the adjective formicine refer to? WHERE... is the second smallest country (by land mass) in the world? WHEN... did Geoffrey Rush win his Best Actor Oscar for Shine?

WHO… also wrote under the pseudonym Boz? WHAT… does a deltiologist collect? WHERE… did the ancient Greeks and Romans refer to as Albion? WHEN… did Ronald Reagan become the 40th President of the USA?

WHO… was the last wife of Henry VIII? WHAT… is the last book of the Old Testament? WHERE… was the 2006 football World Cup held? WHEN… was Dr No released?

WHO… won the 2005 Grand National on Hedgehunter? WHAT… does the musical term legato mean? WHERE… was the mausoleum that is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World? WHEN… was Benedict XV inaugurated as Pope?

WHO… won the World Cup in 1962? WHAT… is a piddock? WHERE… is the capital of Papua New Guinea? WHEN… is Presidents’ Day celebrated in the US?

WHO… were the Picts? WHAT… steamship became the first to cross the Atlantic in 1826? WHERE… is Respect for the Aged day celebrated on the third Monday of September? WHEN… was actress Julie Christie born?

1. Oprah Winfrey was born 2. Marlon Brando starred in On The Waterfront 3. The 1000th episode of The Archers was broadcast 4. Elvis Presley made his first recording, That’s All Right Mama 1. Actress Kathy Bates was born 2. Alec Guinness starred in Oliver Twist 3. The UK’s railways were nationalised 4. Director Sergei Eisenstein died

1. Humphrey Bogart starred in The Maltese Falcon 2. Pianist and Prime Minister of Poland Ignacy Jan Paderewski died 3. The British government issued a recipe for ‘Blitz Broth’ 4. Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit was premiered in London

1. Author Andre Gide died 2. Musician and actor Phil Collins was born 3. Gene Kelly starred in An American In Paris 4. Newcastle United beat Blackpool 2-0 in the FA Cup Final

1. Muppets creator Jim Henson was born 2. Charlie Chaplin starred in Modern Times 3. Amy Johnson made a return flight from London to Cape Town in record time 4. Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov died

1. Jim Carrey was born 2. Recording company Decca turned down The Beatles 3. Charles Laughton died 4. Bette Davis and Joan Crawford starred in What Ever Happened To Baby Jane? SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

WORDWISE THE WORD MAY SOUND FAMILIAR, WHAT DOES IT MEAN? 1. INTRINSIC A Involved. B Genuine. C Without fear. 2. KEIR A A New Zealand shrub. B Bleaching vat. C Stake-fence. 3. LECTOR A University reader. B Liberty granted. C Church reading desk. 4. MEBOS A Desert canal. B Place of pilgrimage. C Salted, dried apricots. 5. NAVARCH A Medieval door frame. B An admiral. C Sea shell. 6. PANDICULATION A Stretching and yawning. B Movement in belly-dancing. C Conversion into bread. 107

CROSSWORD QUICK CLUES Across 1. Scheme (4) 3. End (8) 9. Beware! (4,3) 10. Alcove (5) 11. Inconsistent (3,2,7) 13. Anticipate (6) 15. Entreaty (6) 17. Undeniable (12) 20. Inexperienced (5) 21. Vertical (7) 22. Discouraged (8) 23. Sole (4) Down 1. Jersey (8) 2. Concerning (5) 4. Exit (6) 5. Plotters (12) 6. Weird (7) 7. Always (4) 8. Sweet seller (12) 12. Clerical (8) 14. Acrid (7) 16. Smart (6) 18. Start (5) 19. Old (4) CRYPTIC CLUES Across 1. Dishonourable foundation (4) 3. Log cabin? (8) 9. Boy about to press for the operator (7) 10. Tries to transform observances (5) 11. Describing one who gives you a glassy stare? (12) 13. Supply bases of French vessels (6) 15. Ask oneself if the Communist at present is returning (6) 17. Insurance premiums paid by restaurant patrons (5,7)

A TV star, I was born in London in 1909. My real name was Phyllis Pechey. My father was a novelist and I wrote for the Daily Telegraph in the 1950s. A television chef, I have been the subject of a play by Julia Darling, and in 2006 was played on television by Julia Davis.

An author, I was born in Scotland in 1860. I attended the same university as Robert Louis Stevenson and Arthur Conan Doyle. My plays include The Admirable Crichton and Quality Street, and I created the children’s character Peter Pan. 108

20. Ill-treatment of Lincoln around the States (5) 21. Crooked dealer taking in a thousand for the gem (7) 22. Putting on clothes – what sauce! (8) 23. Take the lead in Moliere’s ‘Tartuffe’ (4) Down 1. One who meddles with active group of people (8) 2. Regal forms of address for fathers (5) 4. Fancy the part of Lorna Templeton (6)

5. Tries cedar to make boards (12) 6. Would an ice-cap cool him down? (7) 7. Frustrate a fleet movement (4) 8. But always the majority, apparently (12) 12. He religiously opposed Saladin (8) 14. The crop due to be reprocessed? (7) 16. Draught excluder with pictures on (6) 18. Something bestowed on a U.S. president (5) 19. Eggs are put face upwards (4)

WHAT’S MY NAME?

An actress, I was born in Santa Monica in 1983. I appeared in the US soap opera General Hospital for six years. My father Russ is an Oscarnominated actor, and my films include The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants and The Grudge 2.

A TV writer and producer, I was born in London in 1929. I was born with the surname ‘Abrahams’. I began working on feature films during the 1950s and produced my first TV show in 1957. I am the creator of the popular television series Thunderbirds. A singer, I was born in Staten Island in 1941. I had my first UK Top Ten hit in 1965. Two of my best-known hits are Joe Hill and Diamonds & Rust, and my most recent album was entitled Whistle Down the Wind.

JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

WORDSPIRALS

IMPOSSIPUZZLES

STARTING FROM 1, FILL IN THE GRID IN A CLOCKWISE DIRECTION WITH FOUR-LETTER WORDS. THE LAST LETTER OF EACH WORD BECOMES THE FIRST LETTER OF THE NEXT WORD. IF YOU HAVE CORRECTLY FILLED IN THE GRID THERE SHOULD BE A SEVEN-LETTER KEY WORD READING ACROSS FROM 8.

“I see you have received an invoice,” John told his partner. “How much is it?” “Not much.” Harry smiled. “The pence are four times the pounds, and the total in pence is just half the square of the pence.” A tricky answer! But what was the amount?

1. Perceive a sound 2. Skin eruption 3. Song of praise 4. Amphibian 5. Short-term worker 6. Go by 7. Drinks delicately 8. Hare’s tail 9. Chuck 10. Long story 11. Fever 12. Direction 13. Gratuities 14. Prosecutes 15. Injure with a knife 16. Support or hold up Key word clue: Austere

“My wife, my sister and her son Bill,” said Charlie, glancing at the photo. “I took it last week.” “Your sister looks younger than you,” Alan commented. Charlie nodded. “My wife is just thirty-seven, and Pam’s a good bit younger than she is,” he declared. “And it’s funny about the ages. The squares of Pam’s age and mine is thirty-seven times the sum of our two ages, and the same applies to Bill’s age and mine.” How old was Charlie?

Mike handed back the sheet of paper. “Those two serial numbers?” he said. “I see no connection between them except that both have eight digits.” Joe replied, “If you take the last three digits of the smaller one and put them in front of the others, you get the other number. And that’s just one less than three times the smaller number.” What was that smaller number?

When Jill was a third as old as Jack is now, Jack was one year older than Jill was when Jack was half as old as Jill is now. Jill is just 22 years old, so how old is her brother Jack?

1. Male deer 2. Pant 3. Rich savoury paste 4. Simple 5. Three feet 6. Rush 7. Sings with closed lips 8. Let it stand 9. Upperclass person 10. Pointed tooth 11. Festive occasion 12. Too 13. Cry of pain 14. Parsley, say 15. The two 16. Brave man Key word clue: Dickens character

1. Housetop 2. Clenched hand 3. Mexican snack 4. Eggshaped 5. Burden 6. Arab sailing vessel 7. Lash 8. Fossil fuel 9. Golf pegs 10. Badger’s burrow 11. Cash register 12. Young sheep 13. Surety 14. Breathing organ 15. Flying insect 16. No longer wild Key word clue: Allspice

ANSWERS ON PAGE 112 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

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WHAT’S ON

Bridgnorth’s Theatre on the Steps is the venue for pantomime Jack and The Beanstalk from January 6 to 27. Comedian Rhod Gilbet brings his latest show to Theatre Severn on January 19

JANUARY

An evening of Adele - Hometown Glory starring Natalie Black and her full band at the Buttermarket in Shrewsbury from 6pm. Natalie Black is the ultimate tribute to Adele, setting the tribute industry alight with her stunning replica show that she has been been performing around the world since 2011. Natalie will perform all of your most loved Adele songs from her four-album past catalogue, with such hits as ‘Set Fire to the Rain’, ‘Make You Feel My Love’, ‘Someone Like You’ and ‘I Drink Wine’. For more information email hello@ thebuttermarket.co.uk or call the box office on 07498966606.

6-27

Jack And The Beanstalk is at Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth. In the village of Old Windy Bottom everyone lives in fear of the giant in the sky. Join Jack, Simon, Dotty and friends as they head up the beanstalk to defeat the wicked giant. This fun-filled adventure is full of well known songs, hilarious comedy, and the usual misfortunes and mishaps. With opportunities to boo, hiss and cheer this is the family pantomime you’ve ‘BEAN’ waiting for. Brought to life by the Theatre on the Steps Company, this fantastically funny pantomime is perfect for all the family and the best way to kickstart your 2024. Tickets cost £10. For more details visit www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk/product/ jack-and-the-beanstalk

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Enjoy a Breakfast with your Pet event at Astbury Hall, Chelmarsh. Keep warm and dry with your furry friend and enjoy a breakfast together in the venue’s TIPI and Walled Gardens and discover the woodland walk. Join the team at The Astbury with Lindsey Rowlands who will talk about her journey with sight-loss.

Telford Stamp, Postcard and Coin Fair, 10am to 2pm, at the Belmont Community Hall, Wellington, Telford (TF1 1HJ). Free entry. The hall is off the far side of the free Tan Bank car park from the car park entrance in Tan Bank, Wellington. There will be a good range of stamps, postcards and coins available. Items bought and sold. Accessories will also be for sale. See material before buying and talk to the dealers. Freshly cooked light refreshments available. Any enquiries to Richard Camp, telephone 01952 405458.

The 2023 film The Great Escaper is being screened at Silvester Horne Institute, High Street, Church Stretton. In the summer of 2014, the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, octogenarian Bernie Jordan made global headlines. He’d staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy, commemorating their fallen comrades. It was a story that captured the

imagination of the world – Bernie seemed to embody the defiant, “can-do” spirit of a generation that was fast disappearing. But of course, it wasn’t the whole story. It was the story we all tell ourselves to make war and old age bearable. The bitter-sweet script explores the reality with wit and a very big heart. Bernie’s adventure, spanning a mere 48 hours, also marked the culmination of his 60-year marriage to Irene – the story celebrates their love without sentimentality and with an eye to the lessons we can all learn from the Greatest Generation.

When life gives Rhod lemons... In his last show The Book of John, Rhod Gilbert was dealing with some pretty pungent life citrus, and an idiot called John. Little did he know that things were about to turn even more sour... But Rhod’s not bitter; he’s bouncing back and feeling remarkably zesty. Hilariously dark, passionate and way too personal, this is classic Gilbert, squeezing every last drop out of life’s latest curveballs... with a little help from an old adversary. Tickets to see Rhod Gilbert at Theatre Severn cost £38. For more details visit www. theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/rhodgilbert-the-giant-grapefruit/

Oh What A Night is on at Oakengates Theatre, Telford. The show takes you back in time on a JANUARY 2024 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE

Michael Caine as Bernie Jordan in 2023 ﬁlm The Great Escaper which is being screened in Church Stretton on January 18. Former SAS soldier Jason Fox will be sharing tales of his daring exploits in a distinguished career with the special forces when he appears at Theatre Severn on January 23.

musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Valli’s unmistakable voice dominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December 63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves You and many, many more. Selling over 100 million records worldwide, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons secured their place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. Oh What A Night combines infectious personalities, amazing vocals, slick harmonies and even slicker dance moves to deliver a show full of energy and nostalgia which always leaves audiences wanting more. Don’t miss the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s greatest Rock & Roll bands. Tickets cost £22.50 from www. telfordtheatre.com/whats-on/music/ohwhat-a-night/4974/

Exploring Shakespeare’s Comedies – Much Ado About Nothing is on at Ludlow Assembly Rooms A participatory study session, led by Clare Smout, explores the story, themes and stagings of one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, Much Ado about Nothing. In this witty war of words, apparent enemies Beatrice and Benedick are tricked into falling in love with each other, while the play’s more conventional SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE JANUARY 2024

young lovers face a series of plots to foil their marriage. This three-hour event will start with an introductory talk, followed by group discussion and video clips from a variety of productions. After a break for coffee and cake, you will end with a group examination of a key section of the play, enabling deeper appreciation of Shakespeare’s theatrical craftsmanship. Tickets cost £22 from www. ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk/event/aworkshop-exploring-shakespearescomedies-much-ado-about-nothing/

Jonathan Pie – Heroes & Villains (work in progress) is on the bill at Oakengates Theatre, Telford. Join Jonathan Pie as he road-tests brand new material for his forthcoming national tour. Jonathan Pie: Hero or Villain? A question often asked and one that Pie hopes to answer in his brand-new live show. Join him as he celebrates the UK’s greatest heroes (nurses/Gary Lineker/24hour off-licence proprietors) and takes a verbal blowtorch to its villains. Marvel in wonder as he kicks in The Establishment’s back doors and rifles through its kitchen cupboards. Tickets cost £17 from www. telfordtheatre.com/whats-on/comedy/ jonathan-pie-heroes-and-villains-workin-progress/4978/

Ex-special forces soldier Jason Fox, star of TV’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, Inside The Real Narcos and author of The Number One Bestseller Battle Scars, will bring to the Theatre Severn stage the remarkable story of his daring exploits in a distinguished career as an elite operator in the UK Special Forces (SBS). From gunfights, hostage rescues, daring escapes and heroic endeavours that defined Jason Fox’s service, to a very different battle that awaited him at home. Life At The Limit is a breath-taking story of Special Forces soldiering; a chronicle of operational bravery, adventure and courage on and off the battlefield. Tickets cost £32. For more details visit www.theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/ jason-fox/

A virtuoso guitarist, Tommy Emmanuel is best known for his complex fingerpicking style, energetic performances and the use of percussive effects on the guitar. His infectious joy illuminates everything he does. Tommy’s talent has earned him multiple Grammy nominations, ARIA Awards, IBMA Awards, and countless “Best Acoustic Guitarist” wins in numerous music magazine readers polls. Now following the release of his latest album, Accomplice Two, Tommy comes to Theatre Severn as part of his UK Tour with special guest Grammy-winning guitarist and singer Molly Tuttle. “He’s playing the same 12 notes that 111

Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice brings his brand new live tour ‘Let Me Entertain You’ to Theatre Severn on January 26-27, while the internationally acclaimed Carducci Quartet will perform at Maidment Auditorium, Shrewsbury School, on January 28.

the rest of us are using, but what he achieves with it is pretty monumental,” Joe Satriani. Tickets cost £37 to £44.50. Visit www. theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/ tommy-emmanuel/

26-27

The ultimate showman returns to Theatre Severn! Giovanni Pernice is back in 2024 for his brand new live tour... Let Me Entertain You. Giovanni will be joined by a world class cast of professional dancers and West End performers to bring you an unforgettable entertainment experience. A show of non-stop action. Prepare to be entertained. Tickets cost £43 to £48.50. Visit www.

theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/ giovanni-pernice-2024/

The award-winning Carducci Quartet is internationally acclaimed as one of the most accomplished and versatile ensembles of today. They will perform at Maidment Auditorium, Shrewsbury School, from 3pm. Not only mastering the core repertoire, the quartet presents a selection of new works each season and diversifies further with programmes of film music, pop and rock. Founded in 1997, the ensemble has won numerous international competitions, including the USA Concert Artists Guild International Competition

and first prize at Finland’s Kuhmo International Chamber Music Competition and performs at prestigious venues across the globe including the Barbican, Cadogan Hall and Wigmore Hall, London, and Carnegie Hall, New York. Shropshire Music Trust has hosted performances by the Carduccis for many years and this season they will present a programme which enables audiences to appreciate their versatility – performing music from the 18th to the 20th century. This rare opportunity to hear Schumann’s only piano quintet – considered to be one of his major works, composed in 1842 and dedicated to his wife, Clara. For tickets visit www. shropshiremusictrust.co.uk/tickets

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGES 107-109 REMEMBER WHEN: 1.1954 2. 1948 3. 1941 4. 1951 5. 1936. 6. 1962 FOUR Ws: 1. Minerva; The ant; Monaco; 1997. 2. Charles Dickens; Postcards; England; 1981. 3. Catherine Parr; Malachi; Germany; 1962. 4. Answers: Ruby Walsh; Smooth and flowing; Halicarnassus; 1914. 5. Brazil; A type of bivalve mollusc; Port Moresby; Third Monday of February. 6. Pre-Roman inhabitants of Scotland; Curacao; Japan; 1940. WORDWISE: 1. B 2. B 3. A 4. C 5. B 6. A CROSSWORD: QUICK SOLUTIONS: Across: 1 Plan; 3 Conclude; 9 Look out; 10 Niche; 11 Out of keeping; 13 Expect; 15 Prayer; 17 Indisputable; 20 Green; 21 Upright; 22 Deterred; 23 Only. Down: 1 Pullover; 2 About; 4 Outlet; 5 Conspirators; 6 Uncanny; 7 Ever; 8 Confectioner; 12 Priestly; 14 Pungent; 16 Spruce; 18 Begin; 19 Aged. CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS: Across: 1 Base; 3 Woodshed; 9 Surgeon; 10 Rites; 11 Bespectacled; 13

112

Depots; 15 Wonder; 17 Cover charges; 20 Abuse; 21 Emerald; 22 Dressing; 23 Star. Down: 1 Busybody; 2 Sires; 4 Ornate; 5 Directorates; 6 Hothead; 7 Dash; 8 Nevertheless; 12 Crusader; 14 Produce; 16 Screen; 18 Grant; 19 Laid. WHAT’S MY NAME?:1. Fanny Cradock. 2. JM Barrie. 3. Amber Tamblyn. 4. Gerry Anderson. 5. Joan Baez. WORDSPIRAL 1: 1. Hear 2. Rash 3. Hymn 4. Newt 5. Temp 6. Pass 7. Sips 8. Scut 9. Toss 10. Saga 11. Ague 12. East 13. Tips 14. Sues 15. Stab 16. Bear Key word solution: SPARTAN WORDSPIRAL 2: 1. Stag 2. Gasp 3. Pate 4. Easy 5. Yard 6. Dash 7. Hums 8. Stet 9. Toff 10. Fang 11. Gala 12. Also 13. Ouch 14. Herb 15. Both 16. Hero Key word solution: SCROOGE WORDSPIRAL 3: 1. Roof 2. Fist 3. Taco 4. Oval 5. Load 6. Dhow 7. Whip 8. Peat 9. Tees 10. Sett 11. Till 12. Lamb 13. Bail 14. Lung 15. Gnat 16. Tame Key word solution: PIMENTO

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