the image in stratford and the surrounding areas september 2010

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The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas SEPTEMBER 2010 Plan your perfect wedding... Get ideas for your big day from top tips to fabulous venues! Weddings feature inside check out... WEDDINGS feature HEALTH & FITNESS HOUSE & HOME FOOD for thought WIN A MEAL FOR 4 & BOTTLE OF WINE at Le Bistrot Pierre, Swan’s Nest Something old Something borrowed Something new Something blue P P P QUIZ

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This month in The Image wedding planner Nikki gives her top tips for wedding preparations you can't afford to forget! SIMLA continue their free curry offer throughout September ­ simply cut out the voucher and pick up a free curry! Plus win a meal for 4 and bottle of wine at Le Bistrot Pierre at Swan's Nest! See page 16.

TRANSCRIPT

The Image...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 0

Plan your perfect wedding...Get ideas for your big day from top

tips to fabulous venues!

Wedd ings feature inside

check out...WEDDINGS featureHEALTH & FITNESSHOUSE & HOMEFOOD for thought

WINA MEAL FOr 4 & bOTTLE OF WINEat Le Bistrot Pierre, Swan’s Nest

Something old

Something borrowedSomething new

Something blue

P

P

P

QUIZ

...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areasThe Image

We offer a great choice of adverts available to fit the budgets of any size business starting from less than £30 per month!

Why not advertise with The Image? You won’t be disappointed!

We’ll also promote your business and any offers you’re featuring on Twitter and Facebook. Your advert will also be included in our e-magazine on www.theimage-stratford.co.uk

Or email:[email protected]

JJCall JJ on07779 222301

Don’t miss out on all the latest news. A brand new supplement is on it’s way this month!We know that things don’t stay the same for long and new offers are always just around

the corner. That’s why we joined Facebook and Twitter to keep all our followers and fans

updated with up to the minute news and deals.

But what if you want to share a bit more news? Maybe some pictures too?

Well we think we’ve cracked it with a mid-monthly e-newsletter which will

keep you topped up until the next issue of The Image arrives on your door.

From ways to save money to the latest showcase of advertisers’

work, we’ve got it covered.

Simply go to our website www.theimage-stratford.co.uk and subscribe to

the e-magazine which will automatically put you on the e-newsletter list, all free of charge.

While you’re there, it’s well worth becoming a fan on Facebook and following our tweets on Twitter

so you can be kept up-to-date with all the latest news.

Don’t forget, if you know anyone who would like to receive a copy of the e-magazine and

mid-monthly newsletter, they can subscribe online too!

The Image team

Contents: Horse rescue Centre page 02

Independent Retailing page 03

Weddings feature page 04

Health & Fitness page 08

House & Home page 10

Handy Andy page 12

Food & Drink page 14

Quiz page 16

September’s offerings...This month, we’re giving you the chance to win a meal for 4 at Le Bistrot Pierre at the Swan’s Nest! To enter you’ll need to have a read through the magazine and then answer some quick questions. Enter on page 16.

Our weddings feature is taking off and this month, wedding planner Nikki Vincent is giving her top 5 tips and some great answers to people’s questions. If you need her expert advice, just email [email protected] and she can point you in the right direction.

We also speak to a Retail expert on the importance of using local independent businesses and the benefits to the local community.

Quiz winners...Thanks again to everyone who entered our quiz last month and for your valuable feedback which helps us to improve the magazine month on month. In fact, we’ve decided to implement some of your changes in the coming months, so watch this space and keep those good ideas coming!

August’s prize winners were Sarah Kemp, Louise Brightman-White, Jess Holder, George Lewis and Eileen Mitchell and they’ve won a

family ticket each to The Butterfly Farm!

Enjoy reading your local magazine, supporting local business

and the community.

p.s. Join our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter for up-to-date news, deals and discounts between issues!

Our very first winners were treated to a fantastic meal at The One Elm and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Bette & Ron with friends Chris & Den

June’s Quiz Winners!

sales@theimage-stratford.co.ukwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

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Welcome to the September edition

Quiz winners!

We had a great time, the meals were all excellent and the staff were great. We were so well looked after!

The Image would like to thank everyone in Bidford who supported the fire station which had been threatened with closure.

Are you struggling with your child’s behaviour? Do you sometimes feel at the end of your tether? That nobody understands? That you just don’t know what to do or where to turn? Well don’t worry. Help is at hand – in the form of Wendy Waters, Stratford’s very own Super Nanny.

Wendy is a Children’s Behaviour Specialist who visits families in their own home to help them tackle those difficult childhood issues such as tantrums, naughty or rude behaviour, chaotic bedtimes, sleeping, eating or toileting problems. She is a trained paediatric nurse with over 20 years’ experience of working specifically with children and families. So no matter how big or small the problem seems to you, Wendy has seen it all before and you’re certainly not alone.

Worried about any area of your child’s behaviour?

Does your child’s behaviour make your life stressful?Advice and personalised support is available

For further information visit: www.wendywaters.co.ukOr contact: Wendy Waters NNEB, Paediatric Nurse,

NLP Practitioner, 10 yrs experience working with families, CRB checked

Tel: 07981 699 875 Email: [email protected]

Appointments in your own home | Evening and weekend appointments availableCHILDRENS BEHAVIOUR SPECIALIST

Super NannyStratford’s Own

tantrums sleepingproblems

naughtybehaviour

eating problems

toiletingproblems

Did you know there is a

in Wootton Wawen? horse rescue centre

Friends Of Champ Equine Rescue Centre has horses and ponies ranging from Timmy, who is no bigger than a dog, to Tiberius, who is a 17.2hh Cleveland Bay. All of these horses are funded by finding ‘mums’ for the rideable horses. Their efforts also help to fund the upkeeping of the un-rideable horses and ponies.

It costs £35.00 Per week to become a ‘mum’ – for this you get your own horse that belongs to you as if it was on livery with us. You do whatever you want, whenever you want and can keep him/her for as long as you want. The

only extra expense is the farrier, which is £15.00 every 6 weeks for a trim, or £65.00 if you would like a set of shoes. All other costs are included (i.e vets bills etc). None of our horses are ever sold. (We do ask that if you are going to become a ‘mum’ for one of our horses or ponies that you do have personal accident insurance to cover yourself).

Do not expect a riding school type horse, you must be able to ride competently and have some experience with horse care; However we love children to take a part and interest in the ponies, which are tremendous fun!

if you are a horsey mum with a toddler, we have lots of little ponies who you are welcome to borrow for the odd half an hour to start off.

If you are going to university, having a baby or maybe suffering financial problems, we will be happy to look after your horse/pony for a while until the circumstances are right.

Have you ever wanted a pony, but don’t have the money or space to keep one?

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The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

If You have any questions, would like to know more information or are interested in being a mum, do not hesitate to call Penny on: 07868721058

Horses available for loan:

Beau - 14.2hh, Mare, All rounder.Burt - 17.2hh, Gelding, Cleveland Bay, All rounder.Oliver - 15.2hh, Gelding, Ex-racehorse, All rounder.Smartie - 17hh, Gelding, Thoroughbred - very nice and quiet, Happy hacker.Misty - 12.2hh, Mare, Lead -rein or a very confident rider.Jay - 14.2hh, gelding, Hacking/Schooling for a competent rider.

There are also lots of little shetlands available for mums and toddlers.

This is a great way to have ‘your own horse’ when the money if tight or you can’t dedicate enough time to have a horse/pony of your own. There are over 80 acres of fields to ride in, brilliant hacking, and showjumps. You can come to suit yourself, everyday, once a week; whatever suits your lifestyle. There is no need to worry if you go on holiday or if you are ill, there are always people to help keep and eye on, and look after your horse/pony whilst you’re away. If you decide you cannot be a ‘mum’ anymore, all we ask is one month’s notice.

Independent Retailingand the High Street

From an independent retailers point of view, the good news is that there are many ways to improve ranges and make them more attractive to the customer.

How?

A tight rein on stock levels and forward orders can really drive profitability and introduce flexibility into a retail business.

Concise, clear interpretation of sales will progress the buying plan and lead to a fantastic range for the customer.

Dynamic management of space will satisfy the customers desire to see an ever changing, interesting shopfloor.

With expert guidance on these areas, retailers can run a tighter, more profitable operation together with flexibility and great product – seeing them through this difficult economic period.

After spending twenty years building key brands in the High Street, retail spa is now working with independent retailers, making their life easier by solving important retail problems.

If you are or know a shop owner who would like support and a free retail spa assessment, please contact Tony Scott at retail spa on 07894 222557 or go to the website at www.retailspa.co.uk

We all know how hard times are at the moment - as we look round Stratford-Upon- Avon the number of empty shops is clear to see. It is so important for us to support and shop in our local community, in particular buying things and spending money in stores that are locally owned.

The Image in Stratford can help youfrom less than £30 a month.

Our adverts come in a range of sizes and all design work is included in the price. Your advert will also appear

on our e-magazine at www.theimage-stratford.co.uk and you can feature in our mid-monthly e-newsletter.

Contact JJ on 07779 222301 or email [email protected]

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sales@theimage-stratford.co.ukwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

HOT

OFFEr!

The Imageweddings

Expert advice from Nikki Vincent, The Stratford Wedding Co.T: 0844 357 4777 E: [email protected] W: www.stratfordweddingcompany.co.uk

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The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

QA

It’s 5 weeks to my big day and I’m terrified I’ve forgotten something obvious and vital and worry I’ll remember the day before the wedding or even worse, on the day. How do I keep myself in check? Miss H Morrow

Hi Helen, as long as you have followed the checklists you find in every Bridal magazine you should be covered for all the major items. If you find yourself always thinking of details you have missed, especially if its keeping you awake at night, try keeping a notepad and pen handy. Once you have jotted it down you can stop worrying about it and deal with it in the morning.

Q:

A:

QA &

If you need advice or have any questions about your big day, please email [email protected] and Nikki will be on hand to help.

1. Not booking the Registrar. You found and booked your perfect venue for your civil ceremony and you’ve sent your save the date cards, then you finally get around to booking the registrar, but whoops they are fully booked that day. If you’ve paid a deposit to the venue or any other suppliers you could lose it. Make sure you book your registrar before you confirm the wedding date with the venue.

2. Not insuring your wedding. It costs around £30 to insure an average wedding, a small price to pay for piece of mind and you’ll be amazed at what it covers. Make sure you buy insurance as soon as the first deposit is paid.

3. Not putting enough postage on your invites. How rude would you feel if all your guests had to go their local sorting office to pick up your beautiful handmade invitations and then have to pay for the additional postage AND an administration fee. If you’re in any doubt about the stamp required pay a visit to your local post office and get one weighed.

4. Expecting your photographer to be a mind reader. How do they know the pictures that will be the perfect memory of your special day? Make sure you do a list of all the pictures that you must have so they have something to work from.

5. Being bullied. It’s your special day, no-one else’s, so even though its nice to have other people’s opinions sometimes don’t let them bully you into having things you really don’t want. If the person doing the bullying is the one who’s paying you may have to come to a compromise but always let them know how you feel.

Nikki gives us her Top 5 Tips for preparations that you can’t afford to forget! There’s also some great answers to

questions from brides to be.

Wedding Wisdom:Nobody wants to look like Alice Cooper on their wedding day so to avoid a runny nose and mascara streaks hold a tissue flat against the palm of your hand so when you’re holding your bouquet it can’t be seen.

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sales@theimage-stratford.co.ukwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

• Men’s Black Tailcoat• Wedding Stripe Trousers• Waistcoat (choice of colour)• White Wedding Shirt• Cravat (choice of colour)• ALL SIZES inc. Boys

Masons Road | Stratford-upon-Avon | CV37 9NFTel: 01789 296018 | e: [email protected]

www.richardpaulhire.co.uk

Men’s Wedding Suit Hire

HOT

OFFEr!

The Image magazine was invited to the re-launch of Ardencote Manor Hotel Spa recently.

We were greeted by Maja Foster – Ardencote’s Marketing Manager, and her team and given a guided tour of the new Spa area. All the Spa team were enthusiastic and keen to tell us of the many and varied packages that they have to offer. If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a tranquil and relaxing day, then Ardencote Manor Hotel Country Club & Spa is definitely worth checking out.

A spa oasis in the middle of a stressful world...

SalfordHall

The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

Best Western Salford Hall is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and is happy to host all or part of your wedding day ceremonies. The venue can cater from 20 to 130 guests. A choice of rooms are available to cater from larger and more elaborate to the small and intimate days, including the use of a Marquee for the larger events.

Exclusive use of the hotel may be taken which includes the use of all the public rooms and gardens, 34 bedrooms and full English breakfast the next morning. All 34 bedrooms, eight with four-posters are named after historical personages connected with the Hall and its story and are individually decorated with period furniture and luxurious fitments. Each room has all the facilities you would expect to make each guests stay a pleasure.

Exploring the historic building is an adventure. Quaint black and white corridors, like the stage set for a mediaeval film, lead unexpectedly to small hideaway lounges, one with a

secret priest-hole. In the windows ancient stained glass glows with heraldic coats of arms recalling the colourful Tudor age. These also record the stained glass shields of the influential families with whom Best Western Salford Halls owners were related.

This wonderful Tudor mansion offers a special atmosphere with 16th century charm, warm and intimate with a cuisine and wine list that are classic to create that truly magical day.

Best Western Salford Hall Hotel Abbots Salford, Evesham, Worcester WR11 8UT

Telephone 01386 871300

Email : [email protected]

www.salfordhall.co.uk

Freecanapés if you

book your wedding at Best Western Salford Hall on presentation

of this advert*

*Terms & Conditions. Subject to availability. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Minimum of 50 guests - Valid on new bookings only

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Make your Wedding Day truly historic in the unique setting of Best Western Salford Hall.

Picture a fascinating Tudor manor almost unchanged by time. Now lovingly restored as a beautiful hotel, Best Western Salford Hall offers a romantic and original setting for that special day. The hotel holds a Grade 1 listing for architectural and historical interest and lies close to Stratford Upon Avon and Broadway, and the whole of the lovely Cotswolds and Shakespeare country are on the doorstep.

SalfordHallBest Western

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sales@theimage-stratford.co.ukwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

Tana Travel, 2 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6LWTelephone: 01789 204269 / 414200 Fax: 01789 414420 E-mail: [email protected]

www.tanatravel.com*5% discount applies on selected Tour Operators for

all honeymoons 2010 / 2011: excludes flight only and accommodation only arrangements.

We have over 26 years experience here at Tana Travel. We will help you find the right place, the best price and obtain upgrades and unique packages that on-line travel sites and most other local Agencies cannot. We make no charge for this service as we believe everyone should have the honeymoon of a lifetime.

Why not let your guests contribute towards your trip so that you can experience the honeymoon you’ve always dreamed about? Whether it’s the ultimate adventure trip, a romantic city break or a luxurious retreat to faraway shores, our Honeymoon Gift Registry service will enable your guests to give you the most memorable gift of all.

You will have the help and guidance of your own Travel Expert who will design your honeymoon from start to finish, tailor-made to the finest detail.

Please remember that we do not only sell holidays anywhere round the world but we can also organise airport car-parking, airport lounges, car-hire, attraction tickets and much more! The little extras that can make all the difference between a holiday and a holiday of a lifetime!

We would love to be the company that helps you with all your future travel needs so therefore we are offering an

exclusive 5% discount* for all new customers when arranging their honeymoon with us: mention you have seen this advert and you will automatically receive this offer.

It is lovely for couples to include children in the celebrations but many people just don’t want to risk the disruption they can cause. You can hire a mobile crèche service who will amuse the children on the site of the wedding, for as long as you need them. They will do a risk assessment at the venue, all staff are level 3 qualified and they will be fully insured and are able to look after and amuse children of any age. By having them in a separate room they can be as rowdy as they want without disrupting the wedding but parents can come and go as they please and feel assured their children are in safe hands.

A:

We have children of our own and we are also inviting everyone else’s but we do not want them to spoil the day by having everyone run round after them. I have a few ideas but nothing that seems structured enough. Miss S Drinkwater

Q: QA &

HOT

OFFEr!

Honeymoon Planning

V0279 / C0630 2848

The Imagehealth & fitness

The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

Two ways to top up your Vitamin D - read our nutritionist’s advice and even book a holiday!

STRATFORD TAEKWON-DO

NEW BEGINNERS CLASSES

AT STRATFORD LEISURE CENTRE

Every Monday

& Wednesday

Children 6.00pm - 7.00pmTeen & Adult

7.00pm - 8.30pmAll welcome

Call 07973 408865 for more details

www.ja-tkd.net

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For more information or to book a nutritional consultation, please contact Jacqueline Tarling (BSc, mBANT, CNHC registered) on 0845 327 9070 or go to my website at www.jacquelinetarling.co.uk

With the winter fast approaching, and the sunlight diminishing, it seems like a good time to think about whether our vitamin D levels are adequate.

Vitamin D deficiency is a very common problem – more than half of the UK population has insufficient levels of vitamin D. 90% of our vitamin D is made in the skin by exposure to sunlight. The problem is that we are not getting enough sun. In Britain almost no vitamin D is generated in the skin during the winter months because the solar radiation contains too little ultra violet light.

Most foods contain very little vitamin D naturally. The Food Standards Agency state that good food sources are oily fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines), eggs and liver. Liver products are also a rich source of vitamin A. Other food sources include fortified foods such as breakfast cereals and powdered milk.

Benefits of Vitamin DVitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases.

HOT

OFFEr!

health & fitness

sales@theimage-stratford.co.ukwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

• We offer an unrivalled choice of holiday brochures giving you the widest choice - not just those companies whom the Travel Agent needs to sell to meet their targets

• We offer our own range of tailor-made holidays to Africa, the Indian Ocean, the Middle and Far East, India, Australia / New Zealand and Costa Rica

• Our highly experienced staff have nearly 90 years between them of arranging holidays and giving you unbiased and honest advice

• We have comfortable offices located in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon with the option of sitting in our lounge to discuss your holiday plans in peace and quiet over a cup of coffee

• Most importantly, your money is fully protected as we are bonded with the CAA, ABTA and IATA: ask clients of Goldtrail and Sun4U how important this is!

V0279 / C0630 2848

We would love to have the opportunity to show off the wealth of experience that we can offer you when you are planning your next holiday, whether to Wales or the islands of the South Pacific!

But....why should you make your holiday arrangements through Tana Travel?

To take advantage of our service, contact us and book an appointment.....today!

Tana Travel, 2 Ely Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6LW

Telephone: 01789 204269 / 414200 Fax: 01789 414420 E-mail: [email protected]

www.tanatravel.com

SPECIAL

OFFEr!

So whether you want a touring holiday in Scotland or Nova Scotia, a city break in York or New York, a visit to Richmond Bridge in Surrey or Richmond Bridge in Tasmania, a boating holiday on the Thames or a cruise on the Nile: we can help you and you can rely on us finding you the best prices!

All of us look forward to welcoming you to the world of Tana Travel very soon so that you can explore your world.

Tell us you have seen this advert and we’ll give you

5% Discount on a wide range of holidays!

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The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

The Imagehouse & home

Your property could feature here...

Why not advertise it with The Image from as little as £30 per month.

For sale/rent: Your property

Armscote, Stratford-upon-AvonSemi Detached House, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, 2 Receptions, Private Garden

For sale £320,000

Located in the beautiful village of Armscote, this family home has bright rooms and a large garden with vegetable patch. The integrated mains gas/wood burner/solar panels give plenty of hot water for the family and an open fire in the lounge gives a cosy feel. The local Council have indicated that an extension to provide a 4th bedroom upstairs, a downstairs cloakroom as well as enlarging the kitchen and lounge would be acceptable. The separate office and workshop make it a very practical property.

Double Room for Rent in Stratford-upon-AvonAvailable: 01/09/10 Min term: 6 months Max term: 36 months

£425pcm

Totally refurbished three bedroom terraced house in quiet cul-de-sac 2 minutes walk from Old Town and the West End Pub. Lounge and garden does not form part of the house share. Single occupancy, in Double room, fully furnished with single bed, double wardrobe, chest of draws, TV stand and cupboard, chair, shared bathroom and shower off landing, with second toilet in the downstairs utility room. Large kitchen dining room Landlord is looking for a professional in full time employment. Live-in landlord, will be easy going, and is away most weekends, previous lodger can be contacted for reference if requested. Inclusive of all bills.

Check out these properties up for sale – if you would like more information on these or if you would like to feature your property for sale or rent, email [email protected]

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Need to make improvements

to get your property

ready to sell? Call ADD 2

IMPROVEMENTS on page 12

to see how they can help

you improve your sale.

Specialists in Wills, Estate Planning and Probate

Where there’s a will.......* Wills * Property Trusts Estate Planning * Lasting Power of Attorney

* Inheritance Tax * Planning Wills * Will Storage * Children’s Trusts * Funeral Plans

Probate Service* Executor Support Plan * Total Family Care Plan

–Full Probate Service

Tim Cooper – CocksHome: 01789 270699 Mobile: 07962 533452

[email protected] www.allguardwills.co.uk/tim.cooper-cocks

Gardener’s Corner...This month in Gardener’s Corner, local garden

designer Lucy Bravington shares with you a

recent design of hers in Warwick which shows

how to make the most of a small garden....

A perfect town haven to escape

from the hustle and bustle of everyday life...

Lucy Bravington designs beautiful schemes

for projects ranging from urban courtyards

through to large rural estates. If you would

like design inspiration for your garden

contact Lucy on 07855 940402 or email her

on [email protected]

The contemporary courtyard garden was

designed for a young family in Warwick and

was constructed last month. The client wanted

a space to relax, dine and entertain with low

maintenance planting – as we all do!

Lucy designed a scheme with curves to soften

the small garden and provide interest. The bright

rendered walls make the garden feel bigger and

really show the plants off to their best potential.

Hardwood decking and Travertine paving give

a luxury feel and extend the home’s interior

style outdoors. Planting includes ornamental

grasses which rustle in the breeze complimenting

the sound of the bubbling water feature.

Injections of colour come from Alliums which

bob in the wind along with Rudbeckias and

Verbena which attract butterflies and bees in

the warm summer months.

★Eryngium x tripartitum

★Sedum spectabile ‘Brilliant’

★Agapanthus ‘Blue Giant’

★Aster novi-belgii ‘Peace’

★Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’

and ...Ornamental grasses

eg. ★ Stipa gigantea,

Helictotrichon sempervirens

Star Plants for September

Lucy Bravington

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www.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

desig

ner

land

scap

es

Lucy Bravington designer landscapes provides a garden and landscape design consultancy for those wishing to extend their living space outdoors. Beautifully designed schemes are created for projects ranging from urban courtyards through to large rural estates.

www.lucybravington.comTel: 07855 940 402

FairyGodmothers

Call Nikki for a visit or an estimate on 07929357835

★ Pre and post tenancy cleans ★ Ironing service

★ Weekly and monthly cleans ★ In depth total spring cleans

As a young mum, Nikki decided to set up her own business, Fairy Godmothers, so as to earn money and still be able to spend time with her partner and children.

She provides a complete house and office cleaning service either as a one off or on a regular basis within ten miles of stratford.

Before...

After

handy andyI’m here to help with any questions and to give advice on how to maintain your home and vehicle. Need a tip for your home? Or just have a funny story... ...email [email protected]

Special thanks

to the

Jewsons team for hosting our

latest breakfast morning...

and to Mr Ben’s for his fantastic

bacon butties!

T: 07894303022E: [email protected]

• Domestic extension builders

• Garage / loft conversions

• New builds

• Structural work

• Hotel / commercial refurbishments

If you’re selling your property, contact us to see how we can help complete essential jobs to achieve a healthy and improved sale value.

ADD 2IMPROVEMENTS

The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

1 2 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 0

Rock solidThe toilet roll holder had fallen off the wall and left a hole. My sister brought a can of Space Invader and

told her husband to squirt a little bit in the hole so that when it went hard they could put the toilet roll holder back up. Think that’s easy? It should be. Her husband squirted the whole can in. The whole wall bulged in

the toilet and in the bedroom on the other side. My sister now does any handyman tasks in the house!

Vintage Cars to Modern CarsComputer Diagnostics

Mechanical & Electrical RepairsMOTs

Welding24 Hour Recovery

Complete Vehicle RestorationsCars, Vans & Commercials

Telephone (24 Hour)

0870 80 33 247

Warwickshire’s No. 1 for:Service & Repairs – ANY make, ANY model

FREE Courtesy cars

Black Cat Motor Company Ltd Units 7 & 8 Avenue Fields Ind. Estate, Avenue Farm

Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 0HT

OUT OF HOURS SERVICE ALWAYS ACCOMMODATED

HUW LEWISMOT Testing and

Servicing Specialist

• CARS • VANS • AGRICULTURAL • INDUSTRIAL • 4X4

Call:

01789 772827

MOT and Tyre Services at Units 9 and 10, Beechtree Park,

Waterloo Road, Bidford on Avon B50 4JF

07834 059016www.bidfordmots.com

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and help yourself to a FrEE bACON bUTTIE!

Friday 10th September 7.30-10am

Join us for abrEAKFAST MOrNING

at CITY PLUMbING 7 Maybrook road

Stratford Upon Avon

Get there quick before they all run out!

GARAGE SERVICES

Tel: 01789 261321Mob: 07824 665 169

[email protected] 1B Langley Farm

Stratford upon Avon | CV37 0RN

Repairs & ServicingAll makes of cars and

light vehicles

All at competitive pricesCourtesy Car available on request

Friendly service

n Diagnosticsn MOTsn Tyres

n Exhaustsn Batteriesn Welding

Dan Stephens

E: [email protected]: 07969053820

Tel: 01789 261286

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Book with us for an intimate meal for two or a special celebration with a difference.

Our 70ft luxury cruiser operates throughout the year and for Christmas, is centrally heated and

one of the most popular venues in the Midlands.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

L U X U R Y R E S T A U R A N T C R U I S E R

theWelcome aboardEveshamCountess of

Moorings: Bancroft Gardens, Waterside, Stratford upon Avon

Call: 07836 769 499 www.countessofevesham.co.uk

The Image ...in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas

The Imagefood & drink

Treat yourself to a lovely meal out whilst cruising the River Avon or enjoy al fresco dining at Bridgefoot if you can’t wait to enter our quiz! If staying in is the new going out then we’ve got some really exciting parties you can host yourself! Simply book a party, get your friends round and get rewarded for being a host!

in your home – with your friends – its fun and easy

• Try Innovative, multifunction kitchen tools• Learn how to prepare easy impressive recipes• Enjoy the tasty results• Earn free and discounted products• Fantastic Monthly host bonus gift• 10% Host discount on pampered chef products for a full year

For a great fun time Please call Suezy

(your local independent consultant) on 07968 363584 and

arrange your show

Host aPampered ChefCooking Show

www.theimage-stratford.co.uk

Welcome aboard

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Swans Nest | Bridgefoot | Stratford-upon-Avon | CV37 7LT

T: 01789 264804 E: [email protected]

www.lebistrotpierre.co.uk

QUIZ

PrIZE!

BamboodleStratford’s only Noodle Bar, celebrated it’s 1st Anniversary recently, and we, at The Image were invited along to their Anniversary bash, by Charlotte Rogers the Manager. We were treated to a delight of Asian canapés and Pink Champagne.

Bamboodle fuses the essence of a New York vodka bar with the fashionability of a contemporary noodle bar – it is truly unique in Stratford.

Why not try out Bamboodle for a fantastic bowl of noodles. All the food is cooked to order in the open kitchen, so you can be assured that it is fresh – and at great prices too! It’s a trendy place to socialise, so go along to Bamboodle for a fun lunch spot, afternoon chill-out or trendy evening venue.

www.theimage-stratford.co.ukstratford_imageThe Image in Stratfordsearch:

FREE Curry Main MealThroughout September

Order any Main Dish + Rice or Nan Bread and get the 2nd dish FREE

on collected orders only on presentation of this advert Conditions apply

24 Greenhill Street • Stratford-upon-Avon • CV37 6LE

Tel: 01789 269906/7

HOT OFFEr!CUT OUT

s i m l ai n d i a n t a k e a w a y

The Quiz

This month we’re giving away a meal for 4 and bottle of wine at Le Bistrot Pierre

located in the Swans Nest

Offer not valid on Saturday evenings. Please call for reservation.

Down1 They offer retirement advice2 He helps independent retailers3 Our quiz prize is here6 They offer a free courtesy car7 Welcome aboard The _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ of Evesham

Across4 You get your first consultation free5 They have a wedding fayre in October8 For all your cleaning needs9 Free canapés if you book your wedding here10 Our recipe of the month

September’s QuizIt’s so easy! All you have to do is fill in the squares and then piece together the shaded letters to spell out an anagram that reveals something mentioned in this edition. Email your answer, along with contact details and your feedback on this magazine to [email protected] All correct entries will go into the exciting prize draw with a chance of winning 5 family tickets. Get quizzing!

WIN!!!

...Win a meal for 4 and bottle of wine

Swans Nest | Bridgefoot | Stratford-upon-Avon | CV37 7LT

T: 01789 264804 E: [email protected]

www.lebistrotpierre.co.uk

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Anagram (2 words – we’ve filled in 3 letters for you!)

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recipe of the month

Meatballs in Red Wine Sauce “a traditional pasta dish with a rich subtle sauce”

Serve with Fresh pasta, black pepper and lashings of parmesan cheese!!!

What to do1. Pour the milk into a bowl and soak the bread crumbs in the milk for 30 minutes.

2. Heat half of the butter and 4 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large pan or a deep hob and oven safe casserole dish. Add the mushrooms and fry for 4 mins, then stir in the flour and cook for a further 2 mins. Add the stock and wine and simmer for 15 mins. Add the tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar and basil. Season and simmer for 30 mins.

3. Mix the shallots, mince and paprika with the breadcrumbs and milk mix, season with salt and black paper. Shape into 14 meatballs.

4. Heat the remaining oil and butter in a large frying pan. Fry the meatballs in batches, turning frequently until brown all over. Place in a casserole dish and pour over the red wine and mushroom sauce, or if using a Hob and Oven dish, add the meatballs to the dish and stir over the sauce. Cover and bake in a pre heated oven at 180 / Gas mark 4 for 30 minutes.

Ingredients • 150ml Milk• 150 grams white bread crumbs• 25 grams butter• 125ml olive oil • 225 grams Mushrooms (oyster if possible) sliced• 25 grams wholemeal flour• 200ml beef stock• 150ml red wine• 4 tomatoes• 1 tbsp tomato puree• 1 tsp brown sugar• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil• 12 shallots chopped • 450 grams mince beef• 1 tsp paprika

Providing businesses with financial advice that counts

De Montfort House 14a High Street

Evesham Worcestershire

WR11 4HJ

Tel: 01386 421666 or 01386 760001

Fax: 01386 421555

Email: [email protected]

Accountants, Business & Client Advisors

• Accounts preparation• Self assessment tax returns – Personal and Corporate• Management accounts• Management meetings• Business plans and forecasting

• Tax planning advice• Bookkeeping• VAT returns• Payroll• Sage training and support• Companies House reporting and company secretarial services FIrST

CONSULTATION

FrEE

If you have pension funds over £50,000 and you would like a pension/retirement audit, please contact us. We will offer a FREE 1 Hour consultation for all individuals who contact us from this advert.

Please mention this when you contact us.

Telephone: 01926 460156 e- mail: [email protected]

In answer to the question, I suggest that it is very difficult to predict the best time to retire since most people do so either at a particular age or possibly for health reasons. However, whatever your retirement plans, there are always means by which you can improve your pension benefits by optimising performance through the financial market.

I recently spoke to a member of the general public who informed me that he had just retired and decided to accept the benefits offered by his pension provider. I enquired if he taken advice from any organisation other than his pension provider on this very important decision? Unfortunately for him he hadn’t.

Let me explain why it is not the best course of action to simply rely on your pension provider to obtain the best deal for you.

There are many retirement options in the financial market place and I know from experience that people find the process of deciding between them most confusing. If we take the person mentioned above, how can he be sure that the Annuity selected by his pension provider was the one best suited to him? Why did he not explore the other types of retirement planning options? Annuities can be tailored to fit an individual’s circumstances such as health, martial status and flexibility; they can also be investment linked. This particular person had accepted the illustration from his pension provider without question even though this might not be the best in the market or the best for his personal requirements. Many companies rely on consumer trust and, to some extent apathy, with he result that 70% of the people accept the basic offer and do not

go on to investigate the open market. Most pension funds do in fact have an open market option which allows the individual to go to the market to try and improve on the terms offered.

Around 3.6 million people will reach retirement age over the next five years with many more ‘Baby Boomers’ to follow. If you intend to retire in the next ten years you really need to review your options - and to review them now. Getting your retirement funding wrong will seriously affect the quality of your retirement.

Beaufort Wealth Management is an appointed representative of Financial Limited which is authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. FSA No 469862. Registered Office: 5 Clarendon Place, Leamington Spa, CV32 5QL, England. Registered in England and Wales No. 6268234.

Is this the worst time to retire in living memory?

Phil HartDirector

HOT OFFEr!