Bloomin’ Fest is designed to kick off Tewkesbury’s annual Big Weekend on Friday 15th May, and will see the theatre’s home of Sun Street become a free all-ages festival.
It’s the second year the Roses is organising the event, and the theatre promises a real party atmosphere.
From dancing in the streets to bands on the back of trucks, to hay-
6pm until 10.30pm.
“If you were here last year, you already know how great Bloomin’ Fest feels,” say Hannah Grainger, the theatre’s Marketing Manager.
“And if you didn’t make it, you probably heard about it! It’s a real celebration of summer in Tewkesbury, and we want the whole town to come on down and make memories with us.”
Continued on page 2
bales to sit on and that open air bar to enjoy, Bloomin’ Fest transforms Sun Street into a proper festival right in the heart of town - from
“Whenever I
my car looked after, Northway Lane MOT are my first choice” Dom Joly, Comedian
Local bands already signed up include Dhalia, She Don’t Lie and Teaks - with more to come.
Last year saw crowds wearing 1970s outfits in preparation for the retro disco in the evening.
Amazing food will be provided by local street food specialists Hungry Monkey and Tewkesbury favourites Ice Cream Cottage.
“It’s a great opportunity to get the community together and celebrate everything the townand the theatre - has to offer,” says The Roses’ Artistic Director, Derek Bond.
The Friday night party will lead right into Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend, with a parade, riverside stalls and a picnic in the park. For more details see the article on page 3.
Bloomin’ Fest will also be looking to the future of the Roses, with every drink and snack purchased contributing to the theatre’s new Made For You fund.
“We want to develop more self-produced work here in Tewkes-
bury,” explains Derek Bond.
“From our pantomime to youth theatre performances, our new Garden Festival and family-focused productions we’re planning for next year and beyond. It’s an exciting time at The Roses.
“Our goal is to make theatre for and by the community we serve - but for that we need the community’s help. When you come down to Bloomin’ Fest you’ll not just be starting your summer right - you’re helping secure the future of arts and culture in our town.”
A CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS ELGAR
Each year, on the weekend closest to his birth, a festival is held to celebrate the life and music of one this country’s greatest composers, Edward Elgar.
This year’s event will take place from Saturday 23rd until Sunday 31st May, with concerts, masterclasses, competitions, walks and exhibitions held in his native Worcestershire.
There is an opportunity to take part, as well as listen to some of Sir Edward’s finest work with performances from renowned musicians including Nicholas Daniel, Roman Kosyakov, Julian and Jiaxin Lloyd-Webber and Robert Hollingworth.
Venues include Worcester Cathedral, Pershore Abbey, Great Malvern Priory and Elgar’s birthplace at Lower Broadheath. For tickets and further details, see the website elgarfestival.org
Tewkesbury’s annual Big Weekend will take place from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May.
Organiser Carol Crilly said: “We continue to hold true to our ethos of bringing the town and river together for the benefit of all.
“Where possible we offer good value family entertainment, and it promises to be a great weekend.
“Last year’s Street Party was such as success that we are doing it again on Friday 15th May, in partnership with the Roses Theatre. See the front page for more information.
“David Attenborough is 100 this year, and the committee thought it was something they had to acknowledge, so the theme of ‘Land, Sea and Sky’ was chosen for both the weekend and the parade.”
The official riverside opening will be at 10.45am on Saturday 16th, with officials and dignitaries arriving by boat, accompanied by the Maritime Volunteer Service. From 11.00am
TEWKESBURY’S BIG WEEKEND IS BACK
through to 9.00pm there is a fine line-up of local talent on the riverside stage, where there is a bar and refreshments.
The Town Hall and Gardens will be open, and there is children’s entertainment, plus lots of stalls and plenty of activity on the river near Healing’s Mill on both Saturday and Sunday.
The parade leaves Sun Street at 3.30pm on Saturday afternoon, making its way along the High Street to the Vineyards, where Cheltenham Animal Shelter are hosting a Dog Show. Registration for the Dog Show is at 11.00am.
Sunday 17th May sees the return of the popular ‘Picnic in the
SCIENCE FESTIVAL RETURNS
Cheltenham Science Festival, which returns to the town next month, will be exploring what lies ahead in the world of scientific discovery.
‘Be The Change’ is the message - with both free and ticketed events from Tuesday 2nd until Sunday 7th June. For the full programme, tickets and further information visit cheltenhamfestivals.org
Park’ at Victoria Gardens from 12.30, with live entertainment and afternoon teas.
Also on Sunday there is a boat parade leaving from near the Marina and cruising down the
Mill Avon to Abbey Mill. Closing the afternoon are the hugely popular boat races.
“We do hope that you will be able to join us for what looks to be a very enjoyable weekend,”
said Carol Crilly. “If you have a group that would like to join our parade, then do get in touch. It’s a very enjoyable experience. Teams are also welcome to enter the boat race, and charities
can have a free stall in the Town Hall Gardens if they get in touch.”
For more information, please contact Carol Crilly on 01684 772666 or get in touch by email carolcrilly@btinternet.com
SEVERN POINT AUTOMOTIVE EXPAND INTO 2ND WORKSHOP
Severn Point Automotive are pleased to announce the addition of a second building giving them extra workshop capacity and space. Following on for a successful first five years the business has gone from strength to strength and the company now employs eleven members of staff across the two sites.
Starting from scratch at the end of Covid was a tough challenge for Severn Point but over the five years have grown steadily and now with the addition of the second building the business is set up to provide its customers with a reliable and timely service.
Severn Point offer a wide range of services for all makes of Cars, Vans, Motorhomes and
Motorbikes including Servicing, MOT’s, Repairs, Tyres, Fault Diagnostics as well as more specialised services such as Wet Belt Replacements, Air Conditioning servicing and fault finding, Key Cutting and Programming and Tuning / Software updates and also are Racingline and Revo dealers.
In 2024 Severn Point after an extensive audit process they were awarded the status of becoming a RAC Approved Garage and also facilitate cars with extended warranties to support their customers.
Owners Graham Swinburn and Michael Ford are proud of the team that support them and all the customers who use the business and would like to extend their thanks to everyone
and are looking forward to the next five years in the newly expanded business.
To contact Sev-
ern Point call 01684 322898, email contact@ sp-auto.co.uk or visit www.severnpointautomotive.co.uk
■ Graham Swinburn and Michael Ford
New book uncovers the story of the Battle of Tewkesbury
AFFORDABLE GARDEN SCULPTURE EXHIBITION AT SHOWBOROUGH
The Affordable Garden Art Exhibition, which has been running annually since 2008, is now open at Showborough House, Twyning.
The non-profit making venture aims to make garden sculpture as accessible and affordable to visitors as possible, as well as offering artists of all backgrounds a chance to exhibit their work.
As well as displays in a 1.5 acre garden, there is also an indoor gallery with paintings, prints and cards by local artists.
The exhibition is open Thursday-Sunday 10.30am until 4.00pm from 30th April until 14th June. Showborough House, Twyning is at GL20 6DN. Parking is available in the adjacent field. Entry is free but donations are welcome. For more information visit the website www.showborough.com
Steve Goodchild has been fascinated by the Battle of Tewkesbury for more than two decades, and he has an encyclopedic knowledge of the battle and the battlefield.
He co-founded Tewkesbury Battlefield Society and played a leading role in the successful local campaign to prevent development of what remains of the battlefield.
We provide a specialist service of the following
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19 Stanford Road, Northway, Tewkesbury GL20 8QU Tel 01684 212042 • Mobile 07891 546235
Together with respected author and historian Dilip Sarkar MBE, an internationally recognised expert on the Battle of Britain, Steve has written a new book which not only uncovers the story of what happened at Tewkesbury in May 1471, but takes the reader on an insightful tour of the battlefield as it is today.
The Battle of Tewkesbury, 4 May 1471 ‘A Right Evil Place’ examines the background and road to the Battle of Tewkesbury and the aftermath.
The great Medieval battle at Tewkesbury, occurring on Saturday 4th May 1471, saw the House of Lancaster finally defeated in the series of bloody conflicts known today as the Wars of the Roses.
This new book reveals how two days after the battle, various Lancastrian noblemen who had claimed sanctuary at Tewkesbury Abbey were executed; owing to the violence occurring in the Abbey, the building had to be reconsecrated after the battle.
It also provides a comprehensive battlefield guide to the many and varied sites and memorials.
Priced at £29.99, the 280 page hardback is available from all good bookshops.
Tewkesbury Boat Parade - We
need your Boat!
To take part in the “Grand Finale” Boat Parade. Whether its unpowered, powered, narrow, wide, new, classic all are welcome to take part in our Boat Parade on Sunday 17th May. Entry is FREE.
Tewkesbury’s BIG Weekend has raised over £30,000 for local charities. Every penny given goes directly to those charities we support. We do not take out any expenses. Our main Charities are Macmillan Cancer and the Maritime Volunteer Service., For 2026 we will again be supporting as many local charities as possible. The parade is restricted to a maximum of 30 boats due to the limited space that is available. All Boats taking part will be awarded a “brass” plaque as a thank you. I am also pleased that our new Town Mayor has agreed to “take the salute” as part of her first duties. In addition a small prize and certif-
icate will be awarded to the best dressed boat or crew. This will be judged by the New Tewkesbury Town Mayor. The theme is “the Natural World”, so please decorate your boat and /or crew to match. However, this is not essential, what we need is for you to join us and be part of putting on a brilliant show for the town. The assembly point is adjacent to the Visitors pontoon at Tewkesbury Marina at 11.45 am. The parade will start at 12.00pm, heading down through King John Bridge, past Avon Lock and to the end of navigation at Abbey Mill before we turn and return to the Marina.
As usual the Maritime Volunteer Service [MVS] will lead the Parade and ensure safe passage for all craft
For further information please contact Paul Cronin, TBW Riverside Organiser hope29@talktalk.net
RHS Malvern Spring Festival
Thursday 7th - Sunday 10th May at Three Counties Showground Malvern
One of the first major flower shows of the year, the festival opens the door into the summer season and its setting, with the backdrop of the Malvern Hills, provides the perfect backdrop to a plethora of plants and gardens. RHS Malvern Spring Festival is a fundraising event of the Three Counties Agricultural Society.
from www.rhsmalvern.co.uk/buy-tickets
Tewkesbury Bowling Club
It is April, the weather is hopefully drier, the evenings are getting lighter, and the bowling season is soon to start. The game of bowls has been played in Tewkesbury for nearly 200 years and Tewkesbury Bowling Club members will again be playing in the picturesque setting on the Vineyards with the Abbey overlooking the green.
Have you ever walked past the green and thought, I would like to play bowls? It is a re-
laxing game which does encourage gentle activity and exercise whilst being, at times, very competitive.
We are looking for a person to deliver Tewkesbury Direct to the villages of Kemerton, Westmancote and Kinsham. Interested? Please email tewkesburydirect@googlemail.com
The club encourages new bowlers and runs a series of free coaching days when you can try your hand at the game under the direction of qualified coaches. These open days will be held on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May from 1 – 5pm. Just drop in to see us and you can have the opportunity to bowl. You just need a pair of flat soled shoes. Further weekly coaching sessions will be held on Tuesdays in May.
For more information contact the coaches on 07774 466209.
MARVIN LINKS UP WITH CRESCENDO BIG BAND
The next Crescendo Big Band concert at Gupshill Manor is on Sunday 31st May at 3.00pm.
Special guest is Marvin Muoneke a former contestant on The Voice and semi finalist on Britain's Got Talent. Marvin who is a singer, songwriter and trumpeter is fondly referred to as "the young man with the old soul”. Jazz FM radio station has promoted Marvin as “a new vocal sensation in the UK” Marvin comments “I bring classic sounds to modern audiences.
“My passion for jazz storytelling began at age 4 after hearing Louis Jordan's "Is You is Or is You Ain't my Baby" in a Tom and Jerry cartoon. I was inspired at a youngster by Jelly Roll Morton and Don Redman and jointed the National Youth Jazz Orchestra". Over the last 15 years Marvin has fronted a number of bands and performed at prestigious venues. Doors open at 2.30 pm and tickets can be purchased on the door.
Meet Teddy - the latest customer of Tink’s Tails who is now feeling very proud of himself after visiting us for a full breed groom last month.
Three year old Teddy came to our Tewkesbury Salon after moving to the area with his family.
During his first groom with me, I bathed and brushed out his thick twelve week growth and gave him a lovely medium comb attachment ‘Teddy Trim’, as most Cockapoos have.
He was a shining example, and ever so sweet!
I’m looking forward to working with him from now on.
See below for more details of the services offered by Tink’s Tails.
Local car buyer, Shaun Taylor, has an enviable reputation in the Tewkesbury area, for buying cars, his numerous, glowing testimonials from satisfied customers reliably acknowledge the friendly reliable service he offers.
Customers can call Shaun anytime to discuss a potential sale, he is always happy to visit, appraise the vehicle and offer a firm price, then, if that is acceptable, he will settle immediately into a bank account, process the administration and take the vehicle away, there and then. Shaun says, “I have
been buying for so many years now, I understand customers like to know who they are dealing with and to get a personal agreeable service, many admit they would rather deal with a human than spend time working through car buying websites and computerised valuations, with the hope a
vehicle inspection does not affect an online valuation. I like to make life as easy and transparent as possible for owners and I think they speak for me, and I am happy to share many of the testimonials I have received with potential customers, but these are just a couple.”
“ Great Service - Shaun was brilliant to deal with. Came over while I was away at work, next day we agreed a pickup and price. No messing around and fuss free. Would recommend.
“ If you are thinking about selling your car but you don't want to get involved in dealing with dealers, then try contacting Shaun at Approved Car Buying Centre - I did and the whole process was very straight forward from start to finish.
Shaun is very personable, fair and honest in his assessment of the value of the car. The process was completed in one visit, no awkward haggling just a sensible adult discussion. We agreed a price and Shaun then took care of the necessary admin, transferred the money to my bank account and took the car away - It really couldn't have been easier.
“ Fabulous - All good, easy and no pressure. Glad to do business with someone local.
● Routine Podiatry (nail care, callus and corn management)
● Management of ingrowing toenails
● Nail surgery to remove ingrowing toenails
● Treatment under local anaesthetic
● Nail reconstruction for damaged toenails
● Curacorn gel to resolve painful or problematic corns
● Swift microwave therapy and Verrutop for verrucae
● Lunula laser therapy for fungal nails
● Insole therapy
from
with
the
m Shaun Taylor
Celebrated authors to headline town’s first History Festival
8am-12pm Sat
A major new addition to the UK’s cultural calendar has been officially announced, as the inaugural Tewkesbury History Festival prepares to bring some of the world’s most respected historians, broadcasters, authors and history influencers to the heart of Gloucestershire.
The festival has been curated by the John Moore Museum with Tewkesbury Borough Council.
From Thursday 18th to Sunday 21st June, the town’s medieval backdrop will play host to a who’s who of the history world.
The festival brings together a lineup of television broadcasters, award-winning novelists and pioneering archaeologists, to explore everything from the secrets of Stonehenge to the trials of the Tudor court.
of the Renaissance: The Monstrous Marchesa of Mantua.
Friday 19th June features architecture and global heritage, with TV presenter Piers Taylor on the Evolution of the English Home, Katie Hickman on storytelling and empire, and R.A.J. Waddingham on Viking culture.
The day concludes with celebrated historian Ian Mortimer presenting an A–Z of English History.
The festival kicks off on Thursday 18th June with a focus on extraordinary women and royal power.
Kate Vigurs presents Mission Europe –The Women of Special Operations Executive (SOE), revealing the extraordinary bravery of female agents during WWII. In the afternoon Alison Weir, the acclaimed historian and novelist, delves into Tudor mystery with The Boleyn Secret.
There are also talks by Julian Richards and Nicola Tallis, and the headliner for Thursday is Sarah Dunant, a bestselling novelist, who closes the evening with a look at The First Lady
On Saturday 20th Matt Lewis tackles the mystery of the Princes in the Tower, while Kassia St Clair explores the social history of textiles in The Golden Thread.
Nathen Amin examines Welsh identity through Owain Glyndŵr, and Kate Lister closes the night with A Galloping Catastrophe.
The festival concludes on Sunday 21st with a diverse range of sessions, plus a finale delivered by Suzannah Lipscomb, whose talk on Witchcraft and the Witch Trials promises a dramatic close to the event.
For full details and tickets visit tewkesbury historyfestival.co.uk or call in to the Tewkesbury Tourist Information Centre.
SACRED EARTH AT NATURE IN ART
For the first time, an exhibition of artwork drawn and painted with earth and rock fragments, is taking place at the Nature in Art Gallery in Twigworth.
Sacred Earth: Water, Tree, Stone, are the latest works by artist Fiona McIntyre - deeply influenced by living in Scotland, Scandinavia and Spain. The exhibition runs until 10th May, Tuesday-Sunday (and Bank Holidays) from 10am-5pm.
Nature in Art, at Wallsworth Hall, is the world’s first museum and art gallery dedicated to fine, decorative and applied art inspired by nature. It houses many collections and hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year. The coffee shop is open to nonvisitors. Wallsworth Hall is off the A38 Tewkesbury to Gloucester Road, GL2 9PG. For more details see natureinart.org.uk
SweetPea’s Doggy Deli Brings Fun and Frolics to Dubs in the Middle Festival 2026
• Dog Show (Sunday)
SweetPea’s veterinary nurses Claire & Lucy, with their team of volunteers will be heading to Dubs in the Middle 2026, at Brookfield Farm, Evesham WR11 2RB. The festival is described as the ultimate family friendly VW and music festival for air and watercooled Volkswagens and takes place from the 21st to 25th May. This years attractions include;
• Workshops
• Club Camping
• Live Music
• Tribute Sunday
• Silent Disco – 3 Channels
• 65+ Trade Stalls
• Food Stalls & Bars
• Fun Fair, Rodeo Bull & Inflatables
• Show ‘n’ Shine (Saturday)
• The Den (Teenagers Hangout) NEW!
• Aircooled Display (Sunday)
• Lots of FREE Kids Entertainment
• Live Shows
• Plus much much more Claire and Lucy of Tewkesbury’s SweetPea’s Doggy Deli, will be on hand offering their services to the 4 legged festival goers!! Claire Says “The SweetPea’s Doggy Den will be a safe space for fun & Enrichment. Festival dogs can come & make friends, cool down, chill & unwind, to have
We hold over 5,000 product lines in our warehouse, including Stainless Steel in A2 & A4 grades, Galvanised and Zinc HighTensile Bolts, Nuts, Socket Screws, Masonry and Concrete fixings, and more.
Our trade counter is open to the trade and public five days a week.
some fun play time away from the busy crowds and loud music. There will be a Splash zone with cooling stations! set up with paddling pools, ball pits, fresh water bowls an enrichment area with toys, balls, ropes, tuggers, tunnels, fun agility & more! Zoomies are allowed, in fact they are actively encouraged!! We will also bring along our amazing Doggy Deli, packed full of natural healthy dog
food, chews, treats & more. See you there!” Claire and Lucy Sweet Pea’s Doggy Deli Rear of 25 High Street Tewkesbury
Loved by growing puppies, adult and senior dogs At the rear of 25 High Street, Tewkesbury
mobility and joint health
reduced allergies
gut and immune system health
01684 273344 sales@allfasttewkesbury.co.uk
Unit G2, Northway Trading Estate, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8JH
Dragon Vets Tewkesbury is fully equipped with a sterile operating theatre, digital radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory equipment. Drop in and have a look around. You will see many of the same friendly faces from our main surgery at Dragon Vets Cheltenham. You can book your visits and pick up pet supplies, food or medications at either surgery if it’s more convenient.
MONDAY-FRIDAY 9am-6.30pm & SATURDAY 9am-10.30am
“We are hugely grateful to Tom, Wendy and the whole team at Engall Castle for their help in our recent move. They gave realistic advice throughout the process and reassurance when certain aspects were more challenging. It was such a pleasure to have them overseeing our move. Thank you!” BS
AESTHETIKKAA, IS ON THE MOVE
more treatments and improve availability.
Popular High Street Medical Clinic Aesthetikkaa is relocating on Saturday 23rd May to 152 the High Street, near Tewkesbury Cross. Owner of the Clinic and Nurse Prescriber, Janine Warner is delighted with the move and says “I am moving to larger premises to offer my clients the best surroundings, offer
“The new clinic is based on several floors in a delightful old timbered building with restored brick walls, a
revealed fireplace and a wondrous four storey open staircase.
“The interior is luxurious with three treatment rooms, a brand new lay down Sunbed,
a totally accessible treatment room at ground level and a state of the art sound system.
“Treatments include; Lash Lifts and Tints, micro needling, medical facials natural treatments, and the most invasive treatments, including injectables, Dermal filler, anti-wrinkle and, Laser hair removal using medical grade trio technology, hair removal machine, and much more.
“Come along to our opening day, have a guided tour, with sparkling drinks, and on the day if you book in with a £10 deposit you will receive a massive discount on all treatments.
“It is just 3 years since I opened in Tewkesbury and I wish to thank all my wonderful clients who have supported me, helping to make this major move forward.”
Janine Warner
m Janine Warner
Bredon Cricket Club season underway plus enter now for the annual 10k Tower Run
The Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run 2026 is open for entries, and includes chip timing. The 10k trail run starts and finishes at picturesque Bredon Cricket Club commencing at 10am on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
The fully marshalled route follows pretty country lanes, tracks and paths to the 299m summit of Bredon Hill. The hilltop is marked by an Iron Age fort and the 18th-century Parson’s Folly tower, and it boasts glorious views of the surrounding countryside.
Entry costs £20 and includes limited parking at the cricket club, where there are toilets. After the run, participants and their friends and families can enjoy refreshments from the club’s fully licensed bar.
The run is open to 200. Places will be allocated on a first-comefirst-served basis. Runners must be aged 16 or over.
All entrants receive a finisher’s medal, and there will be trophies for first male finisher, first female finisher and first male and female mem-
Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend Dog Show
Saturday 16th May
10.30am - 3pm At The Vineyards Tewkesbury. Visit the Tewkesbury’s Big Weekend website for more info.
bers of Bredon Cricket Club to finish.
To sign up go to entrycentral.com and search for Bredon Cricket Club Tower Run. On Friday 8th May early evening we commence our weekly Jun-
ior Cricket, All Stars & Dynamo’s and last for 8 weeks. The bar will be open to serve refreshments, plus live music and also hot food will also be available.
Cricket at our home venue started on Sat-
urday 18th April and updates on our matches and results will be included in future magazines. Follow us on social media and whenever we have home games the bar will always be open!
This legislation will introduce some of the most significant changes to the private rental sector in over 30 years, and it is important that all landlords understand how it may impact them.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to improve standards across the rental market and strengthen tenant protections.
These reforms will require landlords to stay fully up to date, ensure documentation is correct, and manage tenancies carefully to remain compliant and protected at all times.
Some new rules you need to consider: Serving the government leaflet before 31st May
Serving
At Charles Carter Lettings, we are already prepared for these changes. For landlords on our Fully Managed service, we will handle the new & continuous compliance, tenancy updates, and legal obligations on our clients behalf, ensuring they remain protected as the new legislation comes into force and thereafter.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss upgrading to our Fully Managed services, please feel free to book in a FREE Tenancy health check or one to one via a call, virtual or in person meeting with Eddie Carter the Director to discuss your needs.
Tim Richardson
The Missing Link in Modern Healthcare?
In recent years we've seen a quiet but profound shift in our view of the human body. For decades, healthcare has viewed symptoms in isolation - a sore back, migraines, anxiety and fatigue - each treated as a separate issue.
But what if these symptoms are connected through a single, often overlooked system? My work as a Myofascial Release (MFR) therapist has convinced me that they very often are.
I am a BTEC Level 5 Soft Tissue Therapist and a practitioner of the John F. Barnes approach to Myofascial Release bodywork.
I travel to the USA to train with the world's pioneer of this work, John F Barnes PT, completing advanced seminars and undertaken placements in John's Myofascial Release Treatment Centres, working alongside some of the world's leading MFR therapists.
What is fascia - and why does it matter?
Fascia is a continuous web of connective tissue that surrounds and permeates every structure in the body — muscles, bones, organs, nerves, down to the cellular level.
A dynamic, living system exhibiting a constant balance of compression and tension
forces in its matrix of fluid-filled collagen fibres, elastin and a ground substance (the Extra Cellular Matrix). Research suggests that fascia plays a critical role in movement, stability, and healthy communication between our cells.
If we experience injury, inflammation, or emotional stress, our fascia can tighten, exerting significant pressure on our nerves, organs, muscles and arteries, leading to reduced mobility, chronic pain and many common ailments. Often what we feel as “the problem” is simply the end point of a deeper restriction pattern within our fascia.
Myofascial Release applies gentle, sustained pressure which encourages the fascia to soften and release restrictions, creating a sense of improved "space" and freedom of movement.
Clients frequently report improvements not only in pain and mobility, but also in sleep, stress levels, digestion, and overall wellbeing. That’s because fascia is closely linked to the autonomic nervous system and is the physical environment where we process both physical and emotional trauma, conveying information about tissue tension, pain and pressure.
What to expect in an MFR Treatment
MFR treatment is handson and suitable for all ages, using gentle holds on the skin without oils or forceful techniques. Individual sessions may include guidance on self-care, movement and supporting the body’s healing process. More information is available at the website www.pressuresensitive. co.uk
Tim Richardson
Distance: 2.75 miles, mostly flat throughout. Car parking: Racecourse or Arle Court Park & Ride recommended. Bus service from Tewkesbury. Refreshments: huge choice of places to eat and drink in the town centre; cafés on the route too. Map: sketch map is not to scale. For a more detailed route, try using the OS Map App or Google Maps on your mobile device.
WINCHCOMBE WALKING FESTIVAL
Winchcombe’s Annual Cotswold Walking festival returns to the ancient Cotswold town this month.
From Friday 15th - Sunday 17th May, knowledgeable local guides will lead a variety of walks suitable for all ages. Each will explore the outstanding countryside in this area of outstanding natural beauty, as well as areas off the beaten track. Fees for the walks vary from £3.00 to £10.00, and any surplus income generated is invested in improving local footpaths and walking facilities.
For details and the festival programme go to www. winchcombewelcomeswalkers.co.uk
CHELTENHAM’S SOUTHERN PARKS
Spring is one of the best times of year to visit Cheltenham’s magnificent parks, writes Jack B. Walker. Pittville Park, Sandford Park and Imperial Gardens are known to most locals, and attract visitors from a wide area. This walk, however, explores some of the town’s other pleasant green spaces and attractive streets south of the town centre, which are often overlooked by tourists. I recommend using the Park and Ride service from the Racecourse or Arle Court. There is also a frequent bus service from Tewkesbury to Cheltenham town centre.
The starting point for the walk is opposite the Rotunda. Walk along the central path of Montpellier Gardens, home to many of the town’s festivals, until you reach the William IV statue (1)
Erected in 1833, this is one of only two statues of the monarch in the UK. Turn right, and walk ahead to reach Montpellier Terrace.
Go over the Pedestrian Crossing, bear slightly left then walk along Suffolk Parade. When you reach the church on the right (now a restaurant) turn right into Suffolk Square (2)
Walk along the square (home to a bowling club), turn left at the end then walk straight ahead until you reach Suffolk Road (3)
This fashionable area was formerly known as South Town, but is now usually referred to as ‘The Suffolks.’
Cross over the busy road with care, and walk down Park Place until you reach a fork in the road. The building ahead of you marks the entrance to what were once Zoological Gardens.
Take the left fork of the road known as The Park (4) , with the University of Gloucestershire’s Campus on the right. Follow the curving
road until you reach the entrance to the university car park (5)
Go into the grounds and take the path to the left of the ‘farmery’ building, to reach an old boating lake.
Bear left around the lake and follow the path right around it, then walk towards the buildings to reach another access road and turn left (6) on to The Park road again. Cross over, go left and when you reach St Stephen’s Road, turn right and follow it along the brick wall, then turn left into Hatherley Court Road (7)
Cross Bournside Road, then turn left
through the gates into Hatherley Park (8). This park featured regularly in the popular BBC TV series ‘Butterflies.’
Walk to the right of the lake, then follow the perimeter path right around the park, reemerging onto the road at point 8.
Turn left, and walk to the end of the road, cross over and enter Court Gardens (9)
Walk across the gardens, and exit on to Hatherley Road, turn right and walk along to the traffic lights at the busy junction with Lansdown Road (10)
Cross with care, then bear right along the path passing the Queen’s Road junction, until you reach Lansdown Parade and turn left into it (11) The Lansdown Hotel is on the corner.
When you reach the green, bear right along Lansdown Crescent, with its impressive Regency buildings, and follow it right round until you reach Lansdown Road again (12), Bear left back to Montpellier, where there are lots of bars/cafés.
William IV statue
Early morning, Hatherley Park
■ THE DELL HOUSE: Green Lane, Malvern Wells WR14 4HU. Sunday 3rd May and Monday 4th May. Pre-Booking essential. Two acre wooded hillside garden of a former rectory. Specimen trees, historic garden buildings, tree carvings and a model railway. Garden tours at 11.15am. www.ngs.org.uk
■ HIGHNAM COURT: Highnam, Gloucester GL2 8DP
Open 11am-4.30pm. Sunday 3rd May. 40 acres of Victorian landscaped gardens set out by the artist
Thomas Gambier Parry. Over 5000 roses, lakes, shrubberies, kitchen garden, water garden, grottoes and orangery. Homemade teas. Adults £6.00, children free. www.ngs.org.uk
■ NIMROD: 35 Alexandra Road, Malvern WR14 1HE Open 10.30am-5pm. Sunday 3rd May and Monday 4th May. Two-level garden overlooked by the Malvern Hills. Pond, stream, small wildflower meadow, mature trees and shady woodland area, Japanese garden, New Zealand garden
Land Rover Monthly Live
Saturday 16th - Sunday 17th May at Three Counties Showground Malvern
Now in its fourth year, the team at Land Rover Monthly can’t wait to bring back their Big Weekender event for 2026 – LRM Live (16-17 May). A completely unique two-day event that utilises the team’s vast Land Rover and shows knowledge to bring you a Land Rover event that is unmissable! Camp for the weekend or visit for the day and enjoy, trade stands, club and vehicle displays, a live events arena, beer tent, entertainment for the whole family, a selection of autojumble and a whole lot more! Tickets available from www.threecounties.co.uk
and colourful shrubs and trees. Edward Elgar wrote some of his ‘Enigma Variations’ in this garden. Home-made teas available. Adults £5.00, children free. www.ngs.org.uk
■ WARREN FARMHOUSE: High Street, Stanton, Broadway WR12 7NE Open 1.00pm-6.00pm. Sunday 3rd May. A zoned garden with year-round interest. Lawn and borders, secluded courtyard with fountain and pond. Vegetable beds, fruit cages, woodland garden and a paddock grazed by sheep. Refreshments available. Adults £10.00, children free. www.ngs.org.uk
■ WILLOW POND: Pass Street, Eckington WR10 3AX Sunday 9th May, 11.00am-5.00pm. A group opening with other gardens. Informal one acre village garden with a listed black and white cottage (not open). Lawns, herbaceous borders, planted pots and water features. Lots of areas for relaxation. Picnics welcome, refreshments available at other properties. Adults £10.00, children free. www.ngs.org.uk
WHY CHOOSE US?
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• Air conditioning regas (R134A & R1234YF)
• Complimentary checks of tyre pressures, tyre condition, battery health and brake fluid
• Genuine parts used for timing belt replacements
• Courtesy car or collection and delivery service available
• While-you-wait appointments available
Our workshop is staffed by fully trained, main dealer–experienced VAG technicians, so you can rest assured your vehicle is in safe hands.
With seven fully equipped ramps and a clean, modern facility, we are proud to offer a professional environment fitted with the latest diagnostic and workshop technology. This ensures exceptional value, accuracy and reliability for all servicing and repairs on your VAG vehicle.
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GARDENING MONTHLY - with Tim Hoskins
LONG LOST FRIENDS
The vegetable growing season is already underway, but it’s not too late to get involved, writes Tim Hoskins.
Whether you’re planting or sowing, there is still ample opportunity to raise a productive crop this year.
With longer days and warmer soil, many vegetables will establish quickly, rewarding even a late start with satisfying results.
Our continued reliance on familiar staples such as potatoes, carrots, onions and cabbage owes much to the legacy of the Second World War.
During that time, growing your own food was not just a hobby but a necessity.
These crops became central to the Dig for Victory effort because they were dependable, relatively easy to cultivate, and, crucially, offered high nutritional value per square foot.
When imported food supplies were often lost at sea, these vegetables helped sustain a population under pressure, and their reputation has endured ever since.
However, in holding onto these reliable favourites, we’ve largely forgotten some equally useful crops that now seem almost exotic.
Among these overlooked options are two particularly worthwhile plants -one vegetable and one fruit - that
deserve a place in our gardens.
First, consider Daubentons/perennial kale. Once dismissed as little more than animal fodder, kale has since been rebranded as a nutritional powerhouse.
This variety takes things a step further: it provides a year-round supply of leaves, is highly resilient to frost, tolerates dry conditions, and largely resists pests like cabbage white butterflies. It’s also attractive enough to sit comfortably in an ornamental border, making it both practical and decorative.
The second is physalis, often used as a pub dessert garnish rather than a serious crop and yet it is remarkably easy to grow from seed and, under glass, can produce fruit for up to nine months of the year.
While not fully hardy (H2) so requiring protection over winter, the bright, citrusy flavour works beautifully in desserts like crumbles and pies, but also adds a sharp twist to salads and salsas. Just be sure to grow the edible variety, Physalis peruviana, rather than ornamental types.
My plants are ten years old and still fruiting heavily.
month in aid of the NGS, see the website www.ngs.org.uk GARDENS OPEN THIS MONTH under the National Gardens Scheme
Tim Hoskins
Tim Hoskins
Kemerton prepares for June open gardens event
Building on the great success of the event in 2024 when more than 900 visitors passed through the village, Kemerton - situated on the southern slopes of Bredon Hill, five miles north of Tewkesbury, is opening a number of its lovely gardens to the public.
Hopefully the sun will shine, the birds will sing and, after a rather challenging start to the gardening year, the plants will behave.
There will be more than twelve gardens open over the weekend, including Old Manor, a lovely example of a 17th century timber-framed house with extensive charming gardens running down to a stream that adults and children will love to explore, and Central House whose garden benefited from design by Chelsea gold medal winning Graduate Gardeners in 2020.
The old walled garden (known also as the Secret Garden) - attached to Kemerton Courtwill also be open for visitors to enjoy.
In between and on a smaller scale, but giving great scope for ideas, gardens will be open at various other locations throughout the village, with their owners happy to share advice and insights where they can!
These are family gardens, enthusiasts’ gardens and, above all, imperfect gardens - just
like yours!
Other attractions include adequate free parking, cakes and refreshments served at the Village Hall, ice creams at Old Manor, bar and hot dogs at Pepper Cottage, a pop-up Pimm’s Bar at Central House and a display of vintage cars at Park Farm.
The village church of St Nicholas will also be showing itself off with some wonderful flower displays, and St Benet’s Catholic Church will also be open.
The Crown public house will be open (booking recommended if you want a table, particularly on Sunday for their famous roasts),
and also the Kemerton Coffee Shop, where you can find an eclectic assortment of curios and antiques for sale.
The event opens each day at 1.00pm until 5.00pm, and entry is only £8 per adult over both days (children under 12 go free).
Well-behaved dogs are permitted and welcome on leads. So, put Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June in your diary now and enjoy a wonderful visit to Kemerton. We will look forward to seeing you!
Margaret Gillman
GET CRAFTY AT THE BLACK BEAR
Once again the county’s oldest inn is offering free craft events for all during half term.
The Black Bear in Tewkesbury will offer different crafts for children each day on Thursday 28th and Friday 29th May, from 10.30am until 4.00pm. Everyone is welcome.
Sarah, owner of Tewkesbury’s Body2Soul, and her husband Matt are overjoyed to welcome their beautiful daughter Florence.
She was born ten days early on 26th March 2025, weighing 5lbs 11oz, and already surrounded by so much love.
All are keeping well and enjoying this precious time together. Sarah and Matt wish to thank all those who have sent cards, gifts and well wishes for Florence.
The Cotswold Canals Trust is starting a series of volunteer-led walks along the Gloucestershire towpaths this month.
Four different routes will explore the challenges of restoration, the industrial heritage of the Stroud-water Navigation, wildlife and water and the inspiration for volunteering.
They will be held on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10.30am, costing £5 per person. Proceeds go to the canal restoration project. Dates and details from www.cotswoldcanals.org
Kemerton in 2024
MALVERN WATER AND WELL DRESSING
FESTIVAL: Friday 1stMonday 4th May. The festival starts with the dressing of wells in and around the town on Friday 1st May, judging on Saturday 2nd and a prize-giving on Monday 4th May. On the Bank Holiday Monday presentations are at Belle Vue Island in Great Malvern. There are also music and craft activities. The event celebrates this history of Malvern’s spring water, the Victorian water cure and the area’s Pagan tradition of well dressing. The weekend features well blessing, Maypole and Morris dancing too. Find out more by visiting the Malvern Well Dressing Facebook page.
EASTNOR CHILLI FESTIVAL: Sunday 3rd May - Monday 4th May. A celebration of all things Chilli at Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury, HR8 1RL. Cookery school and demonstrations, chilli eating competition, food, entertainment and bars. Tickets eastnorcastle.com
at the Abbey Lawn Car Park in Gander Lane, Tewkesbury (GL20 5PG) for a guided walk around the Tewkesbury Battlefield, lasting around two hours. The walk is free but donations to the Tewkesbury Battlefield Society are welcome. www.tewkesbury.org.uk
STROUD FESTIVAL OF FOOD AND DRINK: Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May. Three days of fabulous food and entertainment in the heart of vibrant Stroud. Artisan produce, food trucks and bars, live music and children’s entertainment. For details see www. stroudfoodanddrink.com
ECKINGTON OPEN GARDENS AND FLOWER FESTIVAL: Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May, 11.00am to 5.00pm. Beautiful gardens open throughout this lovely Bredon Hill village, plus a flower festival in the church with a 1940s theme in which villagers compete to produce outstanding floral displays. Refreshments, homemade cakes and music, wheelchair-friendly gardens and a complimentary mini-bus service for the less mobile. Classic cars, craft displays, children’s activities, scarecrow trail. Pubs and a shop in the village, picnic area by the River
Avon overlooking a medieval bridge. Dogs welcome on short leads.
THE SUFFOLKS MAY FAIR: Sunday 24th May. 11.00am-4.00pm. Street Market in the Suffolks area of Cheltenham, GL50 2AB. Stalls include arts and crafts, vintage, designers and makers, food and drink etc. More details thesuffolks.co.uk
CHEESE ROLLING: Monday 25th May. First race at 12 noon. Hair raising traditional Whitsun sport at Cooper’s Hill near Brockworth, GL3 4SB. Participants race after a Double Gloucester Cheese down the precipitous slope of Cooper’s Hill. A very busy event.
COTSWOLD
OLIMPICK GAMES: Friday 29th May, from 4.00pm. Dover’s Hill, Chipping Campden GL55 6UW. Historic rural sports gathering which dates back to the 1600s. Events include shinkicking, tug-of-war, wrestling and many more quirky games. Sunset procession into Chipping Campden where there will be live music and fireworks. Tickets online from olimpickgames.co.uk
EVESHAM MEDIEVAL MARKET:
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May. Over 100 stalls and a living history camp in the town centre, with
vikings and knights in fighting demonstrations, music, dancing and entertainment. Free entry. For more information see battleofevesham .co.uk/medieval market.
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Eckington Wharf: a lovely spot for a picnic during the village’s Open Gardens weekend.
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The Gras Season
May is widely regarded as the peak time for buying fresh British Asparagus, in a season that runs from George’s Day (April 23rd) until the Summer Solstice (June 21st).
Widely grown in the fertile Vale of Evesham, asparagus is a versatile vegetable which is delicious roasted, sauteed, or even added to stir-fry dishes and casseroles. It also makes a hearty and warming soup.
In the Vale of Evesham, where the vegetable is known as ‘Gras,’ it is traditionally served as a supper with butter and brown bread after being steamedsometimes with poached eggs or cheese.
An Annual ‘Asparagus Auction’ is held in the courtyard at the Fleece Inn, Bretforton - where produce is donated by local growers to raise money for the local silver band’s instruments. This year it takes place on Sunday 24th May. There’s also an auction in Bretforton Parish Church on Sunday 31st May. For details see the website www.thefleeceinn.co.uk
FRIDAY 1st MAY: Dean Friedman. The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury HR8 2AQ. themarkettheatre.com
UNTIL 4th MAY: Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Headline acts and other fringe performances in Montpellier Gardens and other venues in town. cheltenhamfestivals.org
TUES 5th MAY: Chris Cleverley.
The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX www.rosestheatre.org
WED 6th MAY:
Open Scandinavian Folk Music Session. Royal Oak, Main Road, Bredon GL20 7LW Music starts 8pm.
THURS 7th MAY: Rod Kelly Jazz Trio with singer Penny Powell. Gupshill Manor Gloucester Road Tewkesbury GL20 5SY
FRI 8th MAY: The Wonder Stuff. The Sub Rooms, George Street,
Test your powers of recall with this month’s Tewkesbury Direct Pub Quiz.
1: In total, how many monarchs have been featured on bank notes issued by the Bank of England?
2: Created by Sci-Fi writer Terry Nation, which extraterrestrial race first appeared on British TV in 1963?
Stroud GL5 1AE thesubrooms.co.uk
SAT 9th MAY: Boe-Jigge. Isbourne Arts, High Street, Winchcombe GL54 5LJ www.winchcombe.co.uk
MON 11th MAY:
Jon Lloyd Quartet (jazz). The Everyman, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ everymantheatre.org.uk
The City of Birmingham Choir head for Tewkesbury Abbey on Saturday 6th June (7.00pm), to give a special performance, ‘A Blaze of Glory’, in one of their favourite venues.
Established in 1921, this celebrated choir will be conducted by Adrian Lucas with Andrew Lumsden at the organ, accompanied by a brass ensemble. The programme includes works by Elgar, Purcell, Dupre, Severas and Rutter. For further information and tickets, visit www.citychoir.org.uk
Thursday 21st May 2026 The World’s Oldest Industrial Heritage presented by Adam Sapic at Tewkesbury Methodist Church, The Cross, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5PA at 7.45pm For more details visit tewkesburyhistory.org
British rock band’s name
inspired by its members seeing a poster for a Leisure Centre in Swindon? Cross House, Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20
ANSWERS:
Two - Queen bethEliza II and King
Charles II (introduced in 1960). 2. The Daleks 3. Tommy Steele. 4. Postman Pat. 5. Old Trafford, Manchester. 6. Oasis
FORGOTTEN PUBS with Steve Goodchild
The Cross Keys isn’t a Tewkesbury pub. It isn’t even in Gloucestershire, though it’s very close. Being on the road to Bredon, near the Hardwick
THE CROSS KEYS at BREDONS HARDWICK
Bank Road junction which marked the edge of the Mitton estate, it’s a place which
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would have attracted a lot of passing trade when travel was so much slower.
Like thousands of British pubs, the Cross Keys started life as a beer house, established in 1834 and taking advantage of an Act of Parliament which by-passed the local magistrates, acquiring a licence to sell beer directly from the government’s Excise department. This was changed in1869 by the Wine and Beerhouse Act:
It has never been a troublesome pub. In its early days it only hit the news when inquests were held there, a common procedure in Victorian times. Ann Blizard drowned in the Carrant Brook (then the county boundary), Thomas Ashen was found dead at the side of the road. Walter Williams died of apoplexy walking home from work.
After the 1869 Act of
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Parliament the licence came under the purview of the Pershore magistrates, who promptly suspended it because of alleged misbehaviour of the landlord. It was restored in 1870 when Nelson Price took over.
Soon after this John Pennell took over. He was a man with an interesting past. In 1861 he had been a stoker on HMS Lyra, patrolling the African coast looking for slave traders when they came across Dr Livingstone’s paddle steamer, the Pioneer, in desperate needed a stoker. John Pennell volunteered and spent the next three
Cross Keys hosted the annual “Drinkwater Sparrow Shooting Contest”, the prizes being fat geese. The method was to release trapped sparrows, one at a time, for competitors shoot at in turn. In 1879, all the geese were won by crack shot Frank Young, who only missed two of his ten birds.
In 1882 the pub was sold. It stood in two acres and included a newly built stable and coach-house with clubroom above. Eliza Hardy bought it for £530 but the magistrates refused to transfer the licence, a decision which seemed
years exploring the Zambezi with Livingstone. He was probably related to a family of tailors in Tewkesbury. After his spell as a landlord, no doubt recounting tales of his many adventures, he opened a shop in Church Street before taking a job as steam launch driver with Mr Martin, the Banker, at Ham Court, Upton. He spent his last days in Northfield, Birmingham.
For a few years, the
to be the result of local lobbying against licenced premises in general. The decision was overturned on appeal.
It was events outside, along the Bredon Road kept the pub in the news. The growth of motor vehicles meant accidents, especially at the road junction. George Betts was run over whilst crossing the road; George Walker ran into a cow on his motorcycle; Poor Gladys Bassett, 16, committed suicide on the verge outside. Walter Daffurn was convicted of driving an unlicenced tractor. In 1947 the chimney fell through the roof in a gale.
Mr Bull introduced dances on the lawn for summer evenings. There were regular fetes to raise funds for Tewkesbury Hospital and pub teams competed in the Bredon Fete. In 1939, the Cross Keys formed a darts team, but this didn’t survive the war.
The Cross Keys has survived, though. A ‘typical’ country pub in a generally tranquil location.
By Steve Goodchild.
The pub remained a quiet country drinking house, with just the occasional case of drunkenness. On landlord Francis Walker’s death, his wife, Mary Ann, took over. In 1916, her son Harry was killed in action and son George was wounded, but survived. Both in September. Sadly, Alec, son of then-landlord Walter Daffurn was killed in the next war
m The Cross Keys
m The Barrel Inn
LIGHTS COME DOWN ON KING JOHN’S BRIDGE
Tewkesbury based Severn Unit Maritime Volunteer Service had a most unusual request when they were asked by Borough Councillor Phillip Workman to remove the strings of coloured lights which had been hanging over the arches of King John’s Bridge for many years but were no longer used.
After Avon Navigation Trust gave their permission to proceed with the work the Unit did the job during their first afloat training evening of the Season.
Head of Unit Nic Price served on the original Water Festival Committee with Barbara Cromwell whose Husband Alan put the lights on the bridge and when the Lighted Boat Parade took place after dark the lights made navigation much easier as well as looking attractive said it was sad to see them go. Nic also said “Sadly the lights got ravaged by bad weather and floods over the last 20 years
and consequently the Council now wanted them removed which is exactly what we did using a team of members working from the deck of MVS Pirata
whilst other members manned MVS Minerva providing safety cover to stop any river traffic going through the bridge during the operation.”
Pictured: MVS Pirata with MVS members Russ Davidson, Chris Adcock and ANT Volunteer Paul Cronin dismantling the lights from King John’s Bridge with David Wilson at the helm.
Start your weekend with a winning weight loss at Northway Hub
Hello Tewkesbury!
Are you ready to trade the ‘Friday feeling’ of overindulgence for a Friday feeling of ‘Total Empowerment’!
If you’ve been looking for a sign to start your journey, this is it: Every Friday morning at 9.30am, the Northway Hub transforms into the most supportive, high-energy and welcoming space in town. It’s not just a “Slimming Club” it’s where the ‘magic’ happens.
Why Friday mornings?
Most people wait until Monday to “start again” but our Friday morning members have a secret weapon. The weekend strategy.
By joining us at 9.30am you’re setting you intentions before the weekend even begins. You’ll leave the Hub armed with new recipes, a clear plan for your Sunday Roast and the motivation to navigate those Saturday night treats, without a shred of guilt.
What to expect at Northway Hub.
Northway Hub is the perfect setting for our community. It’s bright, accessible and you can smell the coffee, with lots of shared success stories.
The warmest welcome.
Whether you’re a returning member or walking through those doors for the very first time, you’ll be met with a smile and zero judgement.
Food optimising without the fuss.
We talk real food. Think pasta, potatoes, lean meats and mountains of fruit and veg. No hunger, no deprivation, just results.
Image therapy.
Individual motivation and group experience. It’s the heart of our 9.30 am session, where we share tips, swap supermarket finds and ‘lift each other up’. Whether you want to lost one stone or seven stone, the Friday morning crew at Northway is your cheerleading squad.
We celebrate every 1/2lb and every non
scale victory (like finally fitting into those favourite jeans).
“I used to fear weekends. Now after my Friday morning group at the Hub, I feel in control and excited to enjoy my food.” - current member,
Join us every Friday.
Don’t wait for ‘someday’, make this Friday the day you decide ‘I’M WORTH IT’.
Location - Northway Hub, Tewkesbury, GL20 8QG. Contact Sue on 07760 668956. Friday 9.30am.
Bring your goals and lets make those dreams a reality.
Sue
Mitchell
m Sue before
m Sue after
Bang and Boffins at Probus Club!
The members of Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club come from a wide variety of businesses and professions and together have a huge bank of knowledge collected in a lifetime of work. From time to time one of our members gives a talk about his own life and work experiences and we were treated to an excellent talk by Bob Stockwell who spent many years in senior positions in the iconic electronics company Bang and Olufsen which celebrated its centenary in 2025.
Bob talked us through the origins of the company in Denmark set up by Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen to create and market superior innovative products in the emerging radio, TV and Hi-Fi business in the 1930’s and beyond.
Bob showed us examples of some of the very early designs and how the company developed through the second world war to become the crème de la crème of the quality consumer electronics world.
We recently welcomed John Gillham from the Malvern Radar and Technology History Society who told us the story of how scientists and engineers from two secret air defence research establishments were moved to Malvern in 1942 after a raid by British forces on a German radar post on the north coast of France revealed that our research establishments on the south coast of England would be vulnerable if the enemy decided to undertake a similar attack on them.
He described his role in the development of the business and how the minimalist design and beauty of the products was matched by the excellence of the engineering to produce world class products.
So a decision was made at the time to move all the boffins engaged in the two establishments to a much safer environment, namely to Malvern College to continue their vital work in the defence of the realm.
John described how this influx of a large number of strangers affected the people of Mal-
Sunday to Thursday
vern especially as the incomers were all sworn to secrecy, didn’t mix with the locals and were billeted in their own compounds separate from the Malvern residents.
By Chris Brown for Tewkesbury and Bredon Hill Probus Club
www.probusclub.net/
BUILD IT LIVE - WEST
Saturday 30th - Sunday 31st May at Three Counties Showground Malvern
From inspiration to reality, Build It Live brings the UK’s leading self-build experts together under one roof. Meet architects, builders, window & door specialists and more — all ready to help turn your ideas into a real home. Learn more about build costs, basements, extensions and heating with these handy clinics, or attend one of our free seminars and workshops, which run throughout the weekend and cover a variety of key topics.
tewkesbredon
m Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen
■ THE PERFECT INTRODUCTION TO DISCOVER
THE ANCIENT ART:
25th May – 29th May 10:30am. Sudeley Castle.
Immersive small-group sessions offering a unique opportunity to get up close with birds of prey in a stunning historic setting.
From Monday to Friday during May Half Term week, visitors can take part in a hands-on falconry experience with the award-winning Walks With Hawks, set on the private North Lawn at Sudeley Castle.
■ WINE AND CHEESE EVENING:
Thursday, 4th June
7:00pm Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Join us for an evening
of wine sampling as you travel through the beautiful Cotswold Countryside. You will be served a cheese platter to compliment your Wine. You will have the opportunity to purchase a wide range of other soft and alcoholic drinks from your table during your journey.
■ JUNIOR ENGINEERING EXPERIENCES WITH CHRIS VINE:
Saturday and Sunday 9th and 10th May 2026 at Toddington Station. The experience includes a full steam-hauled trip along the line between Broadway and Cheltenham Racecourse. The events start at 9.30 at Toddington and conclude around 4.30 Suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years and must be accompanied by
an adult.
Chris Vine, author of the Peters Railway books, will lead the sessions, sharing his passion for all things engineering!
• Journey along the line behind a steam locomotive! We start by joining the 10.00 train from Toddington for a return trip to Cheltenham – then come the other highlights!
• Climb onto a footplate and see all the controls in the cab
• With the help of a full-size locomotive, Chris will explain how it works
• Enjoy a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of our locomotive workshop at Toddington, where our engines are restored and maintained – including a close look at No 2874 being restored from scrapy-
ard condition.
• Get close to a steam locomotive boiler and see how it’s built.
• See the machine shop where our volunteers make the parts to keep our locomotives working.
• Take a tour of a signal box and learn how it works.
• Rejoin the steam train for a return trip to Broadway and see what our volunteers are building there
• Back at Toddington – any last questions for Chris and collect a souvenir “goody bag” including a free copy of a Peter’s Railway book personally signed by the Author! One for every budding young engineer.
• For more details, visit GWSR.com
FLOORING
Bredon FC dominated both the Tewkesbury & District Cribbage League and the Evan Akers Trophy, following their record breaking September win against the Woodpeckers. When the Anchor 1774 defeated the Berkeley Arms in the final scheduled match, it looked like they had clinched both Runner Up spots, but a week
later they lost heavily in their rescheduled match against the Gardeners Arms, allowing the Berkeley Arms to regain the League Runners Up spot, plus
two weeks later they went one better by winning the Team KO Cup from the C Anchor, who were again Runners Up for the second consecutive year. There was an initial three way battle at the bottom of the League for the Wooden Spoon, which the Village Inn finally won, much to relief off the new team, Nottingham Arms, who did not record their first win until October.
6
7
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MUSIC FESTIVAL
29th - 31st May
St. Peter’s Church, Winchcombe
National Kit Car Show
Saturday 30th - Sunday 31st May
9.30am - 4.30pm at Three Counties Showground Malvern
As the UK’s longest-running kit car show, it offers a rare chance to see more kit cars in one place than at any other event worldwide. Meet the UK manufacturers behind the cars and explore displays from the industry’s leading names.
Tickets available from www.nationalkitcarshow.co.uk/tickets
Sunday 3rd May 11am onwards On B4080 at Bredon’s Norton severnsailingclub.org.uk
THE MUSIC OF COLDPLAY BY CANDLELIGHT
Featuring an incredible live band and cast of epic singers direct from London’s West End!
Sunday 9th May 6.15pm and 8.30pm At Tewkesbury Abbey
Beckford Open Village 2026
Every two years, on the first weekend in June, Beckford welcomes visitors to this charming celebration of gardens and village life.
This year there will be fourteen beautiful gardens open to explore, some new to the event. All have very different features, ranging from lakeside settings, walled gardens and courtyards to cottage gardens and wild spaces. In the grounds of Beckford Hall, a former priory, there is a rare and ancient box hedge avenue known as Monk’s Walk.
You can also take a wander around the peaceful, wooded nature reserve which has a
large and tranquil lake.
There are bird hides and benches dotted along the way to take a seat and enjoy the wildlife and scenery.
The historic church dates to Norman times and stands at the heart of the village. The interior will be adorned with colourful flower displays and there will be bell ringing and tower tours.
Various stalls and attractions will include plant sales, homemade preserves and local honey. There will also be classic cars, vintage radios, local arts, a bat specialist, activities for children and lots more!
Keen photographers can enter their best shots
into the photography competitions, one for the gardens and one for your dog enjoying the gardens!
The theme running through this year’s event is ‘pollinators’ and this will be reflected in the church flower displays and children’s quiz trail. A beekeeper will be in attendance with an observation hive of bees, and all can learn more about these amazing insects and the importance of pollinators to our planet.
Refreshments on offer include teas with homemade cakes, a champagne bar and barbecue, freshly made baguettes, local cider and ice cream.
Relaxing live music will add to the atmosphere and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast is scheduled on both days (subject to weather and operational requirements).
Proceeds are principally for the maintenance of the village church, with donations made to other local charities and community groups.
Entry £8.00 per adult U16s free. Dogs on leads welcome.
Free parking at Beckford Village Hall, GL20
Whether your fire is for warmth or a feature, traditional looking, modern or bespoke The Fireplace Gallery has a fire to suit your home.
With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and an experienced sales and installation team, we can supply and create exactly what you are looking for.
Stimulate Your Retirement At Tewkesbury & Bredon Hill Probus Club
Probus Club offers retired and semi-retired professional and business men the opportunity to enrich retirement by joining like-minded people for congenial conversation, sharing experiences, listening to a wide variety of interesting speakers and occasional visits to places of interest.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN MAY:
5 MAY – NO MEETING (BANK HOLIDAY)
12 MAY – THE WINCHCOMBE METEORITE (WITH ROB AND CATHRYN WILCOCK)
19 MAY – SOUTH KOREA (WITH SUE ABLETT)
26 MAY – NO MEETING (BANK HOLIDAY)
Meetings are held at 10.15 a.m. in Bredon Village Hall. Every interested person will receive a very warm welcome. Please contact our Secretary, Steve Tucker on 07803 907243 for further information or visit our website at: www.probusclub.net/tewkesbredon/
Enjoy watersports on our Lake!
Stand up paddle boarding for all ages and abilities
WI Newtown taking clever steps... towards brain health
We expected puzzles and tests, but Colin Terrell - a consultant psychologist - just wanted us to take more care of our hearts, specifically for the blood supply to our heads.
We need a litre of blood a minute up there, to keep our brains ticking over healthily.
And the best way to ensure that? Start early on in life [a bit late for some of us?] increasing our exercise levels, gradually - from wherever our starting point is. If you already jog, try a Park Run. If you already walk regularly, walk a bit faster. If you walk occasionally, do it more often. If you get out of breath [can’t talk], slow down for a bit, then speed up again. If you NEVER exercise, try some walking, maybe 15 minutes a day? Carry stuff about; get a dog; vacuum the carpets; do some gardening; and play the sit-tostand game EVERY time you sit down ... It all helps us to balance better, when we trip - which can save us from the next trip - to the hospital - which is too often the harbinger of doom. And sociable exercising - as in Japanese culture - works best; they live longer than any other nation. Plus, a good diet pro-
vides food for thought ... After tea and biscuits
Our ‘B’ competition was won jointly, by a Banana-hook and a ‘Book of 101 Bums’. Maybe best not to investigate that one!
Our WI will contribute to one of the 14 calico dresses that will be exhibited next year around the UK and the USA, to provoke awareness of the WI campaign on Violence Against Women and Girls. The elegant dresses will be embroidered in the colours of bruises - the frock with the shock.
Some of us will be involved in a Zoom presentation of the WI National Federation Annual Meeting at the Bredon Cricket Club [with local excellent
fish’n’chips],
This year’s worthy campaigns being put forward are for Accessible Toilets [oh, yes, please!] and Action on Women’s Homelessness. There will also be (for those very committed few) the Glos WI Annual Council Meeting in Churchdown to attend!
More fun will be had at our new Board Games group, the Knit’n’Natter, and Julie’s Coffee Meet at the Tudor House.
This month we welcomed several new members and visitors, and hope to meet them again at the Wheatpieces Community Centre on Wed 13 May 2026, at 2pm, when we will hear Of Ice & Men [sic]. You are welcome too; just contact Julie on 01684 301237 or PullenJ53@ Sky.com
so much more
for over 200 years and check out our wide variety of products and services at www.haywardstewkesburyltd.co.uk Email: info@haywardstewkesburyltd.co.uk
m Colin Terrell
Lapsed dental care?
We have taken on many new patients, seeking to rectify oral problems. We offer caring, comprehensive,and listening dentistry, to restore oral health.
“The service I’ve received from Tewkesbury Dental is brilliant. I’d been to other dentists in the town and was told I couldn’t have bridge work done or implants. However, after a detailed consultation with Aleksandra, it was decided that bridge work could be done. I can now say, after having my lower jaw bridge fitted; Tewkesbury Dental have proven to be excellent service providers for every need. I have a future of living with a great smile and confidence in my appearance. Highly recommend to everyone.”
General Dentistry
Detection of oral problems early with regular private examinations
Teeth Straightening
Invisalign is a clear alternative to braces, comfortable, removable and easy to wear
We can make caring for your oral health more affordable by spreading payments.
Tooth Whitening
A safe way to brighten the natural colour of your teeth
Hygiene Appointments
Remove plaque and calculus from behind the gum line and teeth
With the lighter evenings Tewkesbury Direct readers may notice more motorbikes on our local roads There’s a good chance these bikers are revving their way to the next Bikers’ Nite meet up in the Cotswolds. For over 20 years this group has been welcoming bike riders of every age and level of experience to their fundraising events in aid of the Midlands Air Ambulance charity.
Bikers are high flyers
The Bikers’ Nite events run every Wednesday evening through to the end of October. Local bikers can enjoy 30 events in 2026 which also include a handful of Saturday meet ups for those who cannot make weekday evening events. It takes a whole team of hardworking volunteers to organise these events and chief organiser Stephanie Shaw has the help of Cliff Jones who undertakes marshalling duties, as well as the support of Beth Farmer, Jeanette Bond and John Underhay to help with merchandise and raffle ticket sales. Bikers are encouraged to purchase membership t-shirts or pin badges or to make a donation which all helps to accumulate funds which are presented annually to the charity.
for 2026 saw bikers meet up at Clavell & Hind Brewery at Elmstone Hardwicke for a cheque presentation to MAAC.
“We raised a total of £17,000 last season for the air ambulance beating last year’s total”, comments Stephanie. “Everyone is welcome at our events. Drop by and meet like-minded bikers and view all makes, models and ages of bikes, mopeds, trikes and sidecars”.
Nicole Beebee, Gloucestershire Funding
The inaugural meet
raising Executive comments “Without the help of supporters we would not be able to provide our lifesaving service. It costs £2,950 per helicopter flight and £288 to send out the critical care car to the scene of an accident and to bring the patient to hospital. The Biker’s Nite group has been collecting funds for us since 2002 and have raised an amazing total of £165,000 for our service”.
The MAAC are marking a 35 year milestone in 2026. The helicopter is flown from a local airbase in Strensham. To find out about the work
of MAAC visit www.midlandsairambularnce.com
A list of 2026 Bike
Nite meet ups can be found on Facebook page “Bikes’Nite Cotswold’s Bike Meets for all Bikers”.
May fixtures:
• 6/5 Wickhamford Sports Club Evesham WR11 7RX from 5.30 pm
• 13/5 Silver Fox Café Newnham on Severn GL14 1JA 7RX from 5.30 pm
You can contact Stephanie at Bikers Night by email bikersnite@gmail. com or by mobile 07974 860624. By Shelby Powell.
MAY AT THE LOWER LODE INN
Please come along to our Speaker mornings at Baptist Hall, Station Rd, Tewkesbury GL20 5DR
Tewkesbury and District
UPCOMING EVENTS
Monday 11th May 2026
Edward Elgar
The composer you thought you knew (Richard Westwood-Brookes)
Monday 8th June 2026
Safety on the road for the older driver (Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership)
Monday 13th July 2026
A life in theatre (Nicholas Wiles)
Enjoy a free coffee/tea from 10.am www.tewkesburyu3a.org
■ left to right: Nicole Beebee, Liam Webb, Stephanie Shaw and Jeanette Bond
IS YOUR CHIMNEY SAFE?
Herbee
FRIENDS OF THE EARTH - Group Litter Pick Sat 2nd May at 2pm. meet at the green footbridge, Back of Avon.
FoE Meeting - The Cross House Tavern, Mon 18th May, 7.30pm.
Herbee The Boat - FoE ave also rejuvenated ‘Herbee the Boat (pictured), the old dinghy by the gates of Tewkesbury Fire Station which is now used as a planter. FoE replenished the soil and planted herbs kindly donated by Hoo House Nurseries.These included thyme, oregano, tarragon, rosemary and chives. When they flower they will be both a source of nectar for foraging bees and edible herbs for foraging humans who are welcome to take a few for cooking!
The search is also on for Tewkesbury’s Wildlife Gardener of The Year!
“The British Isles are globally important for nature” (David Attenborough). We can’t survive without it but we are now one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world and our gardens are often the last refuge for endangered wildlife. Do you garden with nature in mind? If so please consider Tewkesbury FoE’s Nature Gardening Competition. To enter send a photo of your garden to tewkesbury foeg4n@gmail.com
between now and September 1st. You can also come and speak to us as part of Tewkesbury Goes Wild - more details coming soon.
TEWKESBURY
CIRCLE OF COMFORTis a warm and welcoming bereavement support group with no pressure on anyone who attends. It’s a space where people can come together, share experiences if they wish and feel part of a supportive community. The group meets twice a month at the Tudor House Hotel. Next sessions: Mon 11th May, 10am-12pm and Mon 18th May, 2-4pm. With grateful support from The Devereux Centre and Cruse Bereavement.
TEWKESBURY
NATURE RESERVEVolunteer Days, Sat 9th May, 10am-1pm and Wed 20th May 10am-3pm Contact volunteers@tewkesburynaturereserve.org.uk Wildlife Walk and Talk - Tue 12th May, 10.30am-12pm, meet at the Compassion Cafe in Priors Park. Mindful Craft Workshop - Mon 18th May, 6-7.30pm. Booking required: Nature GuardiansMarvellous MeadowsTues 26th May, 2.304pm - Explore our meadow and learn about the different wildflowers, have a go at identifying them and get up close with some simple art activities.
WHAT’S GREEN ON THE LOCAL SCENE
Continued from page 54
Family Volunteering Session - Wed 27th May, 2.30-4pm - Join and do your bit to help the Reserve remove invasive species. Get outside, be active and make a difference. Suitable for ages 5+ with close adult supervision. River dipping - Thursday 28th May, 10-11.30am - Discover the underwater world of the rivers flowing through the Reserve. Suitable for ages 5+. Booking required for all Nature Guardian events; meet at the TNR car park.
TEWKESBURY REPAIR CAFÉ - Held monthly in Tewkesbury Baptist Church, 2-5 pm, next session Sat 16th May. Bring: electrical appliances, toys, clothes, curtains, furniture, lamps, radios, computers, jewellery, electronics, vacuum cleaners, clocks, vases, printers, ornaments, dolls, small kitchen appliances. Kitchen utensils and tools can also be sharpened. Please note that phone screens cannot be replaced, nor alterations to clothing, curtains or soft furnishings. Repairs only. Please ensure that all items are clean, eg empty hoovers, wash clothes and make sure strimmers and lawn mowers are free of grass. Repairs are free, (there may be charges for spares, consumables etc). Donations are welcome to help with running costs, but it is app reciated that not everyone is able to do this.
DAYTIME DANCESwith Cate and George, playing a mix of swing and blues music. We usually have Lindy Hop dancers, but also some ballroom, blues, latin and free-stylers. The next Daytime Dance date is Fri 29th May at The Watson Hall, Barton Street, drop-in 1-4pm. All are welcomedancers and spectatorsGet fit and/or make friends. These events are free with complimentary tea, coffee, fruit and biscuits.
TEWKESBURY
DEMENTIA ACTION
ALLIANCEDementia Action Week is 18th-24th May and Tewkesbury will be filled with forget-me-nots (the dementia emblem), collectively showing support for those in our community affected by Dementia and to raise the awareness of the amazing work and activities already taking place in Tewkesbury. Thanks to everyone who knitted or crocheted, (please deliver any remaining forgetme-nots to the Roses before 6th May). The Forget-me-not Trail will be on display all week in shop fronts across Tewkes-
bury. (Mon 18th to Fri 22nd May). Coffee and Craft Drop-in 10am12pm, Tues 19th May at The Roses TheatreWelcoming anyone who wants to find out more about Tewkesbury Dementia Action Alliance activities over a coffee. Tewkesbury Day Centre Spring Party, 1.30-3pm. Coffee, cake and music on Thurs 21st May. An uplifting afternoon of music and self-serve refreshments featuring one of our favourite entertainers, Piano Hedgehog! Please call Tewkesbury Day Centre on 01452 425384 to book, (numbers are limited). Tewkesbury Fields Care Home, The Oxhey, Tewkesbury, Gloucester, GL20 6HP: Community Café Held on the first Thursday of every month, 10.30am12pm, complimentary refreshments provided, next session, Thursday 7th May.
Understanding Dementia - Coffee Mornings, Drop-in 10.30am-12.30pm, daily Mon 18th to Fri 22nd May. The team at Tewkesbury Fields will be on hand to offer advice and signposting for “Understanding Dementia”. Forget Me Not Café 29th May 2.304pm. All these events are free and open to the wider community.
FREE ‘LOVE TO MOVE’ INSTRUCTOR TRAINING available in Gloucestershire. Parkinson’s UK is looking for volunteers interested in physical activity and supporting those with the disease to live well. The offer is open to individuals as well as community groups and care homes. ‘Love to Move’ is designed specifically for older adults, including those with dementia, Parkinson’s or cognitive impairments and focuses on improving all aspects of health, (physical, cognitive and emotional) as well as fostering social connection and enjoyment. Contact Phil Lindley on 07801 183 349 or plindley@parkinsons.org.uk fo r more info.
GDASS (Gloucesters-hire Domestic Abuse Support Service)contact the help desk on 01452726570 or email support@gdass.org. uk. The website www.0gdass.org.uk also has information and resources if you are concerned that you or someone you know may be a victim of domestic abuse.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE RECYCLES - For more information please visit the website www. gloucestershirerecycles. com
