Severn Village Living 0910

Maisemore Court The Chamberlayne Family open up their family history book

Local Business Inspirations

Virtual travel & beauty treats

Leather on Willow

FREE ● September 2010

Lifestyle | Community | Business

Try Something NewKarate at Longlevens

Martial Arts Centre

norton The Leigh Twigworth Down Hatherley Sandhurst Highnam Over Maisemore Hartpury

Kingsholm Cricket Club shows off its new pavilion

Lifestyle | Community | Business

VillageVillageVillageLIVING

VillageVillageVillageSE

VE

RN

Ashleworth Hasfi eld Apperley Deerhurst Coombe Hill Knightsbridge Boddington Staverton

More Deli Delights from Lots of LemonsWe review Spice Lodge, Cheltenham

Village Living Severn 5 0910.indd 1 17/8/10 18:42:34

INCREDIBLE VALUE ON ALLPRODUCTS & SERVICES

T 01242 304946 (Cheltenham)01452 207112 (Gloucester)

W www.defendandprotect.co.ukE [email protected]

For more information, or for an informal chat todiscuss your requirements, please give us a call ...

CCTV comes in manyforms – fromobservation systems tomultiple camera systems.We endeavor to install yourproject with the upmost care andconsideration from start to finish.

Alarm systems today are easy to usesecurity solutions for domestic and

commercial environments.All our installations arediscussed and designedto the client’s exactrequirements.

SECURITY SOLUTIONS FOR

HOME & BUSINESS...

ALARMS CCTV

We can integrate the bestof brand name equipment.We are able to offer arange of products that fitwith both aesthetic andpractical requirements.

Whether you are lookingto restrict access via atraditional heavy dutychain and padlock ora complex computerbased swipe cardsystem,we can help.

ACCESS CONTROL COMPLETE SYSTEMS


www.severnvillageliving.co.uk | tel: 01452 730023 Severn Village Living • September 2010

Contents4 Welcome to September

5-7 Village news & Diary

8-9 Leather on Willow

Kingsholm CC shows off its new pavilion

12-13 Local Business Inspiration – Clarity Beauty

14-15 Business Profi le –

Perfect Party Planning with Hatherley Manor

16-17 Try Something new – Martial Arts

20-21 The History of... Maisemore Court

22-23 Local Business Inspiration – Video Meeting Int.

25-26 Restaurant Review – Spice Lodge, Cheltenham

27 Riverford Organics Recipe

29 Deli Heaven: Sarah Lemon from ‘Lots of Lemons’

30 Talk Money Special with Griffi ths Marshall

Where Can You Find Village Living?

severn village Living Magazine is delivered to 5,000 homes and businesses across over 20 villages.

Find us in norton, the Leigh, twigworth, Down Hatherley, sandhurst, Highnam, Over, Maisemore, Hartpury, Ashleworth, Hasfi eld, Apperley, Deerhurst, Coombe Hill, Knightsbridge, Boddington, staverton; as well as selected outlets in Gloucester, tewkesbury and Cheltenham.

we are increasing our circulation every month, so if you didn’t receive a copy through your letterbox, you will do very shortly.

Severn Village Living is published monthly by Miss T A Bailey t/a Village Living Magazine3 Springhill CourtSandhurst Lane, SandhurstGlos GL2 9NX01452 730023www.severnvillageliving.co.uk

KInGSHOLM CRICKET CLuB 8

TRY SOMETHInG nEW 16

RESTAuRAnT REVIEW 25

Editorial & advertising enquiries

Tina Bailey 07969 807110 [email protected]

Production

Toni Barrington The Magazine Production Company 01273 467579 [email protected]

© 2010 Village Livingsevern village Living is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of the editor or of severn village Living magazine.


is it offi cially autumn or summer? i am never quite sure about september so i have voted for summer and intend to do all thing’s summery

before we are offi cially in the new season – and offi cially to many means ‘Back to school’! this month i have been learning about a quintessential english summer sport – cricket. the new £100,000 pavilion at Kingsholm Cricket Club is at the centre of my interview with Chairman, David eggleton. i have enjoyed a wonderful aromatic facial courtesy of the lovely stacey Dunn of Clarity Beauty at her gorgeous courtyard salon and i stayed on the theme of sport and physical well being when i joined Mark vallender and the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre to learn a few karate moves!

i spent a very interesting morning in the company of Jeremy and val Chamberlayne who kindly agreed to feature their family home, Maisemore Court, as this month’s history feature. Read all about their

local history and the development of the award winning the steadings Business Centre on page 20/21.

we once again welcome sarah Lemon back from Lots of Lemons Deli and introduce a talk Money special profi le from local Gloucester accountants Griffi ths Marshall.

And don’t forget, if you have any suggestions for my try something new section or want to be a restaurant reviewer, get in touch. All suggestions welcome.

Tina x

Welcome to September

development of the award

September 2010 • Severn Village Living www.severnvillageliving.co.uk | tel: 01452 730023



5 • news & events

A ball of a time! the tenth ‘strawberry ball’ was held at waterley Farm, north nibley nr Dursley on saturday 17th July 2010. wotton Farm shop and committee members from the local area organise the charity ball each year to raise money for Cancer Research UK and the samantha Dickson Brain tumour trust. this year over £10,000 was raised for the charities, bringing the total raised over the past 10 years to nearly £70,000. ‘‘it was a fantastic event. it’s wonderful to see everybody come together to raise money for such worthy causes.’’ said Paul Grimes of wotton Farm shop. Over 300 people attended the evening where they enjoyed a champagne reception, a three course meal, a charity auction, tombola of donated prizes and live music from Fairplay. wotton Farm shop is a major sponsor of

the event and supplies all the strawberries free of charge for the dessert. the farm shop is part of the ‘Big G’, a collective of county farm shops that has been formed to promote the benefi ts of locally grown food which is sold at source. the shops are unique and champion a great range of food from around the county. they grow, make and produce on site.Issued by Vivid. [email protected]

Venue: nATuRE In ART MuSEuM, GloucesterDates: September 7th – October 10th 2010Major Retrospective of one of the UK’s best-selling artistsnature in Art Museum is pleased to announce its exhibition “Drawn to the soul”, a 25 year retrospective of the art of Gary Hodges. this will be the fi rst time over 40 original Hodges pencil drawings will have been assembled together, borrowed back from collectors. Gary Hodges is one of the UK’s most collected artists. His limited edition prints have been highly sought after for many years with one of his fi rst limited editions (of 850 prints) which originally sold for £8.50 exchanging hands for £3,500. He has sold over 105,000 l/e prints from 122 editions and his popularity has attracted many accolades, including the once-in-a-life-time “Best selling Published Artist” award from the Fine Art trade Guild, placing him alongside artists such as Beryl Cook, John vettriano and Mackenzie thorpe.

Drawn to the Soul

Congratulations to Hilary Pound of Highnam who has won a GlitzyGlam Party for 6 Children in the July competition.

After a well-deserved summer break, following an exciting end of year concert at Pershore Abbey in July, the Silurian Choir commences rehearsals at 7.30pm on Thursday 9th September at Tewkesbury Methodist Church hall. New members are always most welcome in all voices and the choir would be pleased to see young singers, as currently three of their younger voices are off to University. Student membership is free. There is an interesting programme of music for the year ahead with English composers represented by Elgar, Finzi, Holst and Vaughan Williams. In the spring 2011 the brothers Joseph and Michael Haydn will be featured, whilst the summer will see a programme of French music. So why not give it a try and come along to a rehearsal on any Thursday evening at 7.30pm and be sure of a warm welcome.

Exhibition – a major retrospective of the art of Gary Hodges SINGERS TAKE NOTE!!

The Historic Pilgrimage to Santiago de CompostelaAn illustrated talk by steven Blake F.s.A tracing the history of the pilgrimage from

its mediaeval origins to its modern revival. At st Peter’s Church, Minsterworth on

Saturday 17th September at 7.30pm. Tickets are £7 each including light refreshments and can be bought from Terry Moore-Scott by calling 01452 750160. Proceeds in aid of the St Peter’s Church improvements.



6 • news & events

Blackwell’s End, HartpurySaturday 18th September, 11am – 5pm

Over 50 varieties of perry pear on display, bring yours along to identify. see old and new ways of fruit pressing. Perry and cider sales. Orchard lunches and teasexplore the young orchard and wildlife wetland. Gloucester cattle, Ryeland sheep, Gloucestershire beekeepers display, Model gates of the welsh borders, Gifts, tombola, Children’s competitions. Enquiries: [email protected]

A DAY in PRAISE of the PERRY PEAR at Hartpury Orchard Centre

BABY & TODDLER GROuP

RELAunCHES

An afternoon of fun for all the family at the Down Hatherley Village Fete

A victorian themed day meant great entertainment and games for all including Magic Lantern shows,

Fun-Flying contraptions from the church tower and a Children’s entertainer and musician. Hatherley Manor’s Coconut shy and Bat the Rat stalls made by the hotel’s handy man Keith wotton raised £73.50 and all the proceeds were donated to the parish. the afternoon was attended by many from the local area and regular users of the hotel, many of whom joined the Hatherley Manor loyalty scheme and entered the prize draw. Congratulations to Helen nicol, winner of a bottle of champagne. All those who entered the prize draw can take advantage of the hotel’s great sunday lunch offer to book a table for 4 and receive a complimentary bottle of house wine, available throughout July and August. You can hire Hatherley Manor’s stalls are available for other local fetes and village events. Just call 01452 730217.

AAshleworth Baby & toddler Group relaunches at Ashleworth Memorial

Hall on Friday 1st October 9.30am until 11.30am. Ages 0-5 years, run by a friendly group of mums. Usually £2 admission but for this October event it is free! Come and see Melody Makers and enjoy refurbished seating, new toys and play, learn and have fun! there will be themed activities on a weekly basis including singing and dancing, water play and cooking. All funds generated go towards the children’s activities and facilities.



Wednesday 8th SeptemberLucinda Green Cross Country Clinic “Learning the Safe Way”Hilltop Cross Country Course, Ledbury.www.hilltopxcledbury.co.uk One Day Clinic two Hour sessions of groups of 6: very novice-novice and intro-Pre-novice. Cost is £75 pre-entry only / Minimum age 12 / other terms and conditions apply. Contact Mrs Jo Jeynes on 07710 750948 or email [email protected] to book or for more information.

Friday 10th SeptemberEquestrian Table Top SaleAt welland village HallDoors open 7.00pm. Admission £1.00 per adult children free. tables are £10.00 each to be booked in advance.For more information or to book a table please call Jo Jeynes 07710750948.

Saturday 11 SeptemberAn Auction in aid of Acorns Children’s’ Hospice and Jasmine Heat......a local girl suffering from san Fillippo’s disease. Painswick Golf Club 6.30pm for 7.30pm start. £10 a ticket inc drink on arrival, buffet and disco. Donations and/or tickets to contact Jan on 01452 731895 / 07894058792. All proceeds direct to both charities.

Saturday 18th SeptemberAshleworth C of E School Autumn BallAshleworth village Hall 7.30pm-latetickets £15 available from the Post Offi ce. includes 3 course Meal and Disco plus Auction of Promises. Bring your own drink

Saturday 25th SeptemberJumble sale Hartpury village Hall. in aid of the new hall fund. tea and biscuits to buy. Admission 50p.

Sunday 26th SeptemberFun Ride From Ham Court, Upton-upon-severn. For more info ring tim Lewin 07775771889

Monday 27th Septembernorton Local History GroupAfter a break in August members look forward to an interesting Autumn Programme: Monday 27th september welcomes back Alan Pilbeam whose subject will be “Gloucestershire Landscape 300 years ago”. Meetings are held in norton village hall, talks begin at 7.30 pm. the hall is open from 7 pm for coffee and display, only £2 everyone welcome to this friendly group.

Sunday 3rd October STAVERTOn AnD BODDInGTOn LOCAL HISTORYAt BODDinGtOn MAnOR (off A4019 Cheltenham to tewkesbury Road). view historical documents and old photographs relating to staverton and Boddington. there will be an opportunity for you to add your own notes and put names to the faces in the pictures! 2 p.m. until 4.30 p.m £2 ADMissiOn tO GROUnDs / teAs / CARDs AnD BOOKs. in aid of staverton and Boddington Parish Churches.

September Fête Reminders

Saturday 4th September. Ashleworth Village Show from 2pmwoodpeckers sports Ground . entry for competitions 40p adults / 20p childrenCompetitions for Arts and Crafts, Cookery Cup, Floral Art, PhotographyChairman or secretary – 01452 700489 / 700667.

Saturday 11th SeptemberApperley Half Marathon Apperley Cricket Club is organising a Community Quarter Marathon to help raise funds for the club and local cancer charity LinC. All runners need to be at the start of the race (Apperley Cricket Club) between 10am and 10.30am to collect their racing numbers, and the race will start at 11am. www.quartermarathon.co.uk for further info and registration.

Sunday 19th SeptemberFive Parish Fun RideMeet at the fi eld at the side of twigworth Lodge. First horses at 9.30am, start times until 1.30pm. Course closes at 4pm. entry fee required £15. All proceeds to the Headway trust Gloucester and Muheza hospital project in tanzania. Pat Collins on 01452 731567.

Village Diarysevern village Living would like to list village events from your local village so if you would like your event listed – be it a play, jumble sale, play group, beer festival, boot fair, Young Farmers party, Youth Club disco or simply a coffee morning at your local church or parish hall, please get in touch. Charity & not for profi t events are listed free of charge. A small charge applies for commercial listings. Deadline for entry into the magazine is the 9th of every month.

Norton Youth Club. We are looking for a new youth club leader and helpers; we have 30

young members and have been running since January 2009… Contact Gemma:

01452 739204 for details.

What’s on... September 2010

Youth Club disco or simply a coffee morning at your local church or parish hall, please get in touch.

severn village Living would like to list village events from your local village so if you would like your event listed – be it a play, jumble sale, play group, beer festival, boot fair, Young Farmers party, Youth Club disco or simply a coffee morning at your local church or parish hall, please get in touch.

severn village Living would like to list village events from your local village so if you would like your event listed – be it a play, jumble sale, play group, beer festival, boot fair, Young Farmers party, Youth Club disco or simply a coffee morning at your local church or parish hall, please get in touch.

7 • viLLAGe DiARY



8 • LeAtHeR On wiLLOw

Kingsholm Cricket Club, Sandhurstwe are well into the cricket

season now and although i am not an avid follower

of the sport, even i have been hearing about the new pavilion and £100,000 worth of improvements to the Kingsholm Cricket Club which has its home in sandhurst. Cricket is the quintessential english village past time so as a resident of sandhurst i thought it would be a good idea to have a chat to the people responsible for this fantastic new building. i met up with David eggleton, Chairman of Kingsholm Cricket Club, to learn a little of the history of the club and how they have got to where they are today.

David rediscovered the ‘bug’ for cricket when he was invited to join in a game one lazy afternoon. Little did he know that a happy couple of hours spent on the cricket pitch would grow into the position of Chairman several years later. David and his wife, sue, are in the enviable position of living next door to the cricket ground in sandhurst but he tells me this was not always the case. “Kingsholm Cricket Club was established in 1923 but was nomadic for many years. Games were played at the winget Ground in tuffley, Plock Court, Longford and Denmark Road, among other locations. it wasn’t until the late seventies that ernie George secured a long term lease

at the sandhurst ground. ernie George was one of the founders of Kingsholm Cricket Club and by all accounts was a great character. i ask David more about him. “ernie ran the club with an iron rod”, says David, “he was well known for cycling everywhere and even used to carry the cricket teas to Plock Court on his handlebars!” in the seventies, ernie struck up a friendship with Henry Oppenheim, late husband of the now Baroness Oppenheim-Barnes and former City MP. they both got on extremely well and became great friends. “it was quite a sight to see Henry drive up to the club in his Rolls Royce or Bentley, whichever was the favoured car of the day, closely followed by ernie on his push bike”, smiles David. On his deathbed, Henry called for

ernie and told him to go to sandhurst and pick a ground to be used as a permanent site for the club. Henry was very fond of sandhurst village as the Oppenheims had owned the sandhurst and norton estates over the years. so ernie found a field, the cricket ground we know today, and was granted a lease on the field until 2002. in 2000, the club had enough funds to buy the ground and approached Baroness Oppenheim and asked if she would consider selling the ground to them. she agreed, the sale went through and the club had its own ground for the first time in its eighty year history.

the pavilion itself has seen some changes over the years. in the eighties a new pavilion was needed and the Club President, Ken Booker, found an

Ernie George



old school building in Denmark Road that looked perfect. the building was owned by nuns and they agreed to sell it to the club. the cost of buying this building was the grand sum of £250! “it was cheap for what it was even in those days”, says David, “but what we didn’t bargain on was the additional £7,500 it cost to put it up!” this pavilion served its purpose well until very recently when it was decided a new pavilion was needed to really put Kingsholm Cricket Club on the map. Planning applications were submitted for a new pavilion complete with modern team showers and changing facilities and a public bar and social area to accommodate around fi fty people. the cost of the improvements were

estimated to be around £100,000; a considerable difference to the cost of the previous pavilion! so the committee set about raising the funds. David and sue along with many other members and supporters have worked tirelessly to get the money needed. Much of the money has been raised through grants, 75% of which came from the english and welsh Cricket Board as Kingsholm Cricket Club benefi ts from “club mark” status. the remainder has been raised through personal contributions and charity fundraising.

today the country style cricket pavilion has been the talk of the local cricket world with visiting teams paying great compliments to the building and its facilities. David tells me that the club continues to foster the youth talent as it always has over the years and the club coaches children from nine years old upwards. the ground currently attracts around sixty children each week from the village and surrounding areas; girls are welcome as well. it hosts County Junior matches and Kingsholm even produced acclaimed cricketer David (sid) Lawrence who played for england for a short while. the club is not just for members, who pay by annual subscription. the pavilion and the ground can be hired out for corporate cricket matches and BBQ’s, ideal for businesses who want to entertain their clients, staff or associates. i believe there is a solicitors v accountants matched

being played as i type! it can also be used for the usual celebratory ‘dos’ such as birthday parties. the clubhouse can accommodate about fi fty people and a marquee or gazebo can be put up on the ground for additional space.

Friday nights is ‘village night’ and many of the local sandhurst residents come down for a drink and some socialising. the bar is licensed to sell alcohol but those drinking do need to join as associate members. Once they are a member they can bring as many friends as they like! Children are welcome too which makes for a great family atmosphere. Keen to uphold the community spirit, the club can also lend help to sandhurst village Hall events by providing extra space and parking for the church.

Finally, Kingsholm Cricket Club, 87 years on, has the pavilion and ground it deserves and one which its members are extremely proud of, and rightly so. i know where i am heading this Friday night. You don’t have to know much about cricket to know how to enjoy an ice cold G&t on a hot summer’s evening in a lovely english village.

If you want to know more about Kingsholm Cricket Club, how to hire the pavilion or enquire about membership, call David Eggleton on 01452 730818. He will be delighted to answer any questions and welcome you to the club.

TREDINGTON, NR TEWKESBURY WWW.SHERDONS.CO.UK

Award winning golf

TREDINGTON, NR TEWKESBURY WWW.SHERDONS.CO.UK

Award winning golf Learn from our 3 resident professionalsPractice in our 26-bay fl oodlit Driving RangePlay the mature 9-hole Manor Course Enjoy a meal in our stunning bar/restaurant

VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME

Excellent value, bookable tee times, club hire available. Open to all, whether golfer or not – no membership required.

01684 274782

GREAT DEALS FOR SOCIETIES Phone for details

WHAT’S ON



McTimoney Chiropractic Clinic, Unit 12 Twigworth Court Business Centre, Tewkesbury Rd, Glos. GL2 9PG



12 • LOCAL BUsiness insPiRAtiOn

Once upon a time in a land far far away, i used to book myself a beauty treatment

every month as a treat to relieve the stresses and strains of daily life. then came the recession, closely followed by the baby and then the new magazine business and facials and massages didn’t just go to the bottom of the list, they fell off it. As i bemoan my plight to Beauty therapist stacey Dunn, instead of looking sympathetic she tells me off! “Always take time to look after yourself” she says. “no-one else will do it for you. now more than ever we need a little pampering!” And then she gets out her appointment diary and promptly books me in for a facial courtesy of Clarity Beauty, a great introduction to my interview on the growing success of her four year old beauty treatment business.

stacey had always worked in an offi ce environment day-dreaming of being a beauty therapist until one day she decided to stop day-dreaming and get on with it. she embarked on a full time course in Beauty therapy at Gloscat and won student of the Year. After she qualifi ed she opened up Clarity Beauty in 2006. the salon is a small but perfectly formed and fully equipped room within the garden of stacey’s victorian home in Kingsholm and is a delightful surprise as you enter through the wooden gates. You step into a lovely courtyard, full of fl owers

in the summer and garden lights in the winter, and immediately feel relaxed. since the conception of Clarity Beauty four years ago and certainly linked to the current economic climate, stacey has seen a rise in treatments such as indian Head Massage, Back, neck and shoulder Massage and Facials. Facials have become stacey’s signature treatment with the most popular choices being the Aromatic Facial and the Collagen Facial. these facials start at £25 and have received a fabulous response from clients. in fact one of her regular clients is one of her past tutors – a great compliment indeed.

it is not just women who enjoy a bit of Clarity Beauty pampering, men are fans of the indian Head Massage in particular as it is non-invasive and an incredible de-stresser. waxing for men is rising in popularity and so too are facials and pedicures. not one to sit still for long, stacey continues to take many courses in new treatments and new products so she is always up to date with changing trends. this month she is joining the Jemma Kidd Make-Up Academy in London to gen up on the latest techniques. Her commitment to her work clearly pays off and stacey has been delighted with the increase in interest for her Bridal Make Up & Pre-wedding beauty packages. Bridal Make-Up involves a full consultation and a make up trial pre-wedding followed by stacey’s

attendance on the day of the wedding to make up the bride. A Pre-wedding Beauty Package includes everything you need in advance of your big day from a facial six weeks before the wedding to an eyelash tint – no need for the waterproof mascara!

Many of stacey’s clients are through word of mouth which is the perfect way of promoting her business, but she is keen to market herself in other ways and always keeps in touch with her clients by sending monthly newsletters and special offers. One of the many reasons stacey feels her clients keep coming back is the convenience of her location and the luxury of personal space. there is free parking next to the salon and she books suffi cient space between clients so there is no need to suffer the embarrassment of walking through a waiting room of clients with lips or eyebrows red from waxing. stacey is very proud of her business and it is obvious she loves her job because after giving me a verbal masterclass on the power of touch and how she loves to see her clients relax in an instant and shelve all their problems for an hour or so, she beams at me and says “i love my job!”

Another successful string to her bow is GlitzyGlam- pamper parties for children. A GlitzyGlam party is designed for children to experience fun with make up but learn about skin care at the same time. One of

Clarity BeautyJust in time to save my sanity, Stacey Dunn of Clarity Beauty treats me to a fantastic facial that I will be talking about for some time to come... Just in time to save my sanity, Stacey Dunn of Clarity Beauty treats me



If you like the sound of any of these treatments or packages, call Stacey to fi nd out more on 07791 167709 or go onto her website www.clarity-beauty.co.uk for a full treatment and price list including Bridal Packages and GlitzyGlam parties.

stacey’s top beauty tips is that it is never too early to start moisturizing your skin and this is a perfect introduction to a Diva Pamper Party aimed at 11 year olds upwards. the onset of adolescence can mean a diffi cult time for some and these parties give young ladies the opportunity to learn how to take care of their developing skin and how to enjoy putting on a little make up the right way – no orange lipstick please! so if your daughter is about to go to secondary school or has perhaps just fi nished her exams and needs a bit of congratulating, pampering and some fun with her friends; a Diva party or spa party is the perfect way to fi ll up a few hours in the holidays without leaving your home. From just £15 per child GlitzyGlam can tailor a package to suit your needs.

And as for my facial… back in an hour…well, i can’t write much about my facial because i am too

relaxed and want to continue in this lovely stress free state for a little while longer. All i can say is try a Monu Aromatic Facial. Amazing. My skin feels as if it’s glowing from the inside out. i might not look years younger but i certainly feel it. And it’s brilliant value at £25 as it includes an indian Head Massage and neck and shoulder massage. Maybe it is time to move that monthly treat back onto the list… maybe even to the top.

Stacey’s Top Three Tips for Beautiful Skin

1. Drink lots of water. it’s free and hydrating and better than the most expensive moisturiser in the world.

2. Always take your make-up off in the evenings.

3. Moisturise your skin from an early age. simple, inexpensive products are just as good for young skin.



with the inevitable Christmas party planning looming on the horizon for many, it is an

ideal time to meet stephen trowbridge, the General Manager and party planner extraordinaire of Hatherley Manor Hotel.

So Stephen, what qualifies you to plan the perfect party?“well, i have spent the last 20 years or so of my hotelier life planning, organising and orchestrating all manner of events. if you can imagine it, i have managed it. i have always worked in large hotels with function space so parties and events were par for the course.”What function space does Hatherley Manor have for those looking for an event venue?“Our maximum capacity is 500 guests in the Hatherley suite and into that space we can incorporate access to the walled gardens and the grounds” There may be some Severn Village Living readers planning a party as they read this; give them some inspiration and tell us about the kind of parties you have held at the hotel?“we had a fantastic Caribbean themed party recently. there was a Hawaiian bar, Jamaican food such and Jerk Chicken and Rice and Peas, a coconut

shy, Reggae music and best of all we had a huge surfing back drop complete with inflatable surf machine. we have organised a Circus themed party where we had stilt walkers, fire eaters and jugglers plus fairground stalls, Hoopla and a sweet themed buffet offering guests oversized lollipops and Candy Floss. there is a great company in Bristol called Circus Malabaristas that has all these great props for hire. One of my favourites was a charity event that had Dodgems in the car park. we have also hosted traditional summer fetes and victorian Christmases. ”What really makes a Hatherley Manor party stand out from all the rest? “the personal touch, undoubtedly. A great example is when we had a pre-wedding party at the hotel and the Circus themed party was being held the same evening. some of the children in the wedding party really wanted to see what was going on so we took them to meet some of the entertainers and let them choose a lollipop from the sweet stalls. they loved it! Of course, every event is very personal and no one get-together is the same. that’s why we don’t put three set menus and three package prices in front of a guest and ask them to choose. Rarely do they want exactly what we offer. we give

them the basic ideas and then build on it to suit their vision and their budget.”You sound as if you like getting involved at the ideas stage, Stephen?“Definitely, it’s my favourite part. My ideal person is the one who comes to me with no real idea of what they want, they just know they need a venue for 100 people for a special occasion – we then sit down and brainstorm ideas together. we come up with some great stuff. it’s really satisfying to know that you can start with nothing and end up with something that the client is really excited about.”These all sound like big events. Do you cater for small occasions too?“Of course. we can organise a rehearsal dinner, christening lunch, a wake, a birthday buffet or a drinks party from 5 to 500 guests. You bring us the occasion and we can ensure it goes smoothly and will be an event to remember. we pride ourselves on tailoring any event to suit the guest so we offer personalised menus; bespoke themes and a personal service to fit any budget. At Hatherley Manor we take the hassle and worry out of your hands and manage your event from the conception of that great little idea to the last dance at the disco.”Lastly, tell us something we might not know about you, Stephen“i am a community man. i love the area and have lived around here for most of my life, born and bred near Chepstow then beginning my career in wales and the Midlands. i now live in Bredon and work in Down Hatherley and i feel it is hugely important to be part of our community both personally and as a hotel. Hatherley Manor has a solid history in being involved in charity and community events and we are always looking for more ways to get further involved in the community, so if anyone feels we might be able to help their business, charity or cause in any way i would love them to get in touch to see how we might work together.”

Perfect Party Planning

14 • BUsiness PROFiLe

Top Tips from Hatherley Manor’s GM, Stephen Trowbridge



Stephen’s Top Tips for organising the perfect party1. Organisation is the key. You must cover every angle and every

eventuality. Always have a Plan B. Good planning prior to the day means being able to relax on the day.

2. Choose an appropriate venue for your theme. if you are organising a seventieth birthday meal you don’t want to hold it in a room next to a children’s party. if you are planning an event personal to you, consider if the venue suits you as a person. the right space is important; don’t cram 100 people in a room designed for 70 and don’t plan a garden party with no back up for wet weather!

3. ensure the people organising your event with you at the venue are fl exible, friendly, accommodating and most importantly, make you feel comfortable. if you feel valued your guests will feel valued.

4. RsvP is vital. Get your invites out in good time; take heed of holiday seasons when people may need extra notice.

5. Consider dietary requirements. Ask on your invite if your guest needs anything special. And always have the venue prepare a vegetarian, gluten free and/or dairy free option for any last minute ‘surprises’.

6. Always give a little extra by keeping something back that your guests don’t expect e.g. a little amuse bouche, an arrival drink or something big, like a Champagne tower.

7. if you are planning entertainment such as a band or disco it is worth informing the neighbours of your start and fi nish times out of general courtesy. And ensure that your entertainment is going to turn up on the date – call to confi rm then confi rm again and have a back up plan in case of emergency.

If you are planning an event in the near future and want to talk to Stephen about the facilities at Hatherley Manor and how they can take the stress out of organising your perfect occasion, however big or small; call Stephen on 01452 730217 or email him on [email protected] and he will be delighted to talk to you and show you around the hotel. Find out more about what’s on offer at

www.hatherleymanor.com



it is fair to say that my only real experience of Karate is kissing my poster of Ralph Macchio, the original

‘Karate Kid’ circa 1984. so when i became a student of wado Ryu Karate last month i was a bit surprised that i wasn’t asked to ‘wax on, wax off’ or ‘paint the fence’. Mark vallender of the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre volunteered to teach me a few moves. the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre takes a modern martial arts approach but is fi rmly based in the wado Ryu style of Karate. the name wado Ryu means ‘the Peaceful way’ so to show aggression outwardly, even during training sessions, is greatly discouraged. Benefi ts derived from this style of karate are fi tness, strength, confi dence, self-discipline and well-being to name but a few.

Mark has been running the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre and teaching wado Ryu karate for ten years.

He is a 4th Dan black belt and super-fi t. i am a bit worried i am about to show myself up terribly. Mark assures me we will start with an informal warm-up so we have a jog around the mats and do a few press-ups to prepare ourselves. there is a good mix of people from seven year olds to adults. After warm up the higher grades move into one class and i join the lower grades. Mark is tutoring my group today and explains to me that grades are the levels achieved by students during their training. we start with practising some basic defensive moves such as roundhouse kicks or a Mawashigeri in Japanese. Mark calls out the commands in both Japanese and english. Although these moves are basic they still require concentration and co-ordination and the hard part comes when we put them all together. this is a Kata, a bit like putting dance moves together in a choreographed piece. the

young children in my group did this seamlessly; i wobbled about a bit in the back.

After a few more practices i took some time out to watch the higher grades. All the commands in this class are called out in Japanese only and the Katas are longer and much more complicated. the movement is strangely peaceful and mesmerising and i fi nd myself drawn into the moment. Karate is a very mental sport, or art if you prefer, and the body must follow the mind. so if anyone reading this fancies themselves as the next all-action martial arts hero, you might be disappointed. there is as much to learn about the origins, the philosophy and the psychology of this skill as the actual physical act.

i return to Mark’s group who are learning some self defence moves using their karate training. Occasionally Mark likes to keep the classes fresh and relate

16 • tRY sOMetHinG new

Martial Artsat the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre

Following the release of the new Karate Kid fi lm this summer, most Martial Arts centres will be expecting an increase in new members, all aiming for the coveted black belt. But just how hard is it to become as good as ‘Daniel-son’? I ‘Try Something New’ to fi nd out if I know my Katas from my Karate.



training to everyday life. He teaches them the best way to escape from an attacker using a couple of common sense moves. everyone has a go and despite the seriousness of the subject, Mark makes it fun and interesting. “i want to give them confidence and open their eyes to the dangers of the streets but at the same time i don’t want to scare them silly”, says Mark. “At their age they are walking to school on their own or out with mates so it’s important they can enjoy the freedom of childhood but also be a little bit street smart. this is the beauty of Martial Arts; it helps people in so many ways throughout their everyday life.” it is clear the children adore Mark and have great respect for him. they crowd round him asking for more tips, more good moves, and there is much laughing and rolling about on the floor. But the minute Mark gives them the command to get in position and resume training there is silence and they are back in line ready to go. After we are dismissed i have the chance to talk to Mark and find out a bit more about the club.

“the centre is popular because we have a good mix of children and adults so it’s not all kids here. we don’t

ask for contracts to be signed for any member, which is standard practice in some larger, branded clubs, and we do not ask for large sums of money up front.” the centre has a very social atmosphere and is very friendly. Mark originally joined the club several years ago along with his two daughters who are now 1st Dan black-belts. the centre also offers additional classes such as classes for sparring and combat and a general fitness class to enhance martial arts training. “Come along on Monday night” Mark offers. “You can join in the fitness class to see how we ‘train for our training’. You’ll love it!” My first reaction is that i would rather watch eastenders and have a nice cup of tea, but i smile politely and say “that would be great. thanks!”

i arrive on Monday night and notice the sign advertising these fitness classes reads something like this: “It’s a kick-butt, sweat pouring, bag slamming, aggression releasing, power punching work out for the ‘bored with the spa scene’ raging kick boxer deep inside us all.” Oh help!

i venture inside to see about 20 men and women warming up by taking it in turns to kick two life size kick bags standing in the middle of the floor.

Mark comes over to greet me and tells me a little about the class members. Mark points out a man who has his own tae-Kwondo group but enjoys Mark’s class for keeping fit. there is a young lad about to go into the army who is enhancing his military fitness and there are a couple of women who tell me they come for a ‘social but intensive alternative to the gym’. the session begins with a running and press-up led warm-up and is followed by an hour of running, jumping, kick boxing, circuits and work on the bags. the music is loud and frantic and the atmosphere highly charged and ridiculously energetic. All i can say about this session is that one of these classes a week and you can ditch three times a week at the gym.

At the end of my two days with Mark vallender and the students at the Longlevens Martial Arts Centre, i can honestly say i have learnt something new. Mark has been my Mr Miyagi for 48 hours and i have certainly learnt that karate requires rather more training that watching the Karate Kid film ten times. so when your kids (or you, yourself) come out of the cinema this month and decide to get fit karate-style, you know where to go.

Longlevens Martial Arts Centre is affiliated to W.u.M.A – World united Martial Arts Federation.Mark Vallender 07775 842 361 / [email protected] Training at the Longlevens Community Centre, Longlevens held on:Mon = 18.30 - 19.30 Open Fitness / 19.30 - 20.30 Mixed Grade Martial ArtsWed = 19.30 - 20.30 Open Fitness / 20.30 - 21.30 Mixed Grade Martial ArtsFri = 18.30 - 19.30 Low Grade Martial Arts / 19.30 - 20.30 High Grade Martial ArtsPrices = 1st Lesson Free / No Contracts / Membership £35 per calendar month or pay as you go

– £4 lesson / Lifetime Membership £40 plus free uniform / Family rates available on request.

Mark Vallender


Steve Brisk (BSYA Med. Teach), Gloucestershire’s first British school of Yoga Meditation Teacher says that meditation helps to improve:

Discover the benefits for yourself at only £40 for a full term of 10 sessionsNext course starts on 21st September If there is no improvement after one term, Steve guarantees your money back!

For details phone Steve on

www.meditation-in-gloucestershire.co.uk

Meditation canchange your life

offer

£35 each,

for two01242 674006

“It gives me a real feeling of wellbeing” - Anna

“It’s like giving

my mind a holiday...”

- Gerald

astress and anxiety aself image asleep aself confidence aachieve objectives aconcentration, and arelationships.

hairdressingVIVIENNE THEYER

With a smart, modern salon next to her home in the peacefulvillage of The Leigh, Vivienne proves that you don’t have to put up with the hassle of a city centre to enjoy hairdressing in style.

Little Holborn, Church Lane,The Leigh, GL19 4AF www.viviennetheyer.co.uk

Telephone 01242 680197To arrange an appointment or discuss your style




the existence of Maisemore Court can be traced back to 1485. Records from this time

to the mid 1860’s show the house enjoyed a long and complicated history intertwining the lives of the Cecils, the Boyles, the Pembruges, the Pitts and the Goodrich families. in the 1840’s the surrounding area was tenanted and farmed by the Morris family but they did not live at Maisemore Court. they lived in the farmhouse in the grounds of the present churchyard, next to the church. Although it was a very large house with 5 bedrooms, cellars and outbuildings, it was becoming dilapidated and the vicar, Rev. George Harmer, had approached the Bishop, proposing that it should be pulled down. Morris wanted to move into Maisemore Court, a rather smart residence, and they prevailed upon the Church Commissioners to agree to the plans. the family moved into

the Court where they stayed and farmed the land until 1929 prior to the arrival of the Chamberlayne Family.

Jeremy’s grandfather, Frank, gained the tenancy of Maisemore Court, with the support of his father in 1929. Prior to that he emigrated to vancouver, British Columbia in 1911, with his new wife, to work on the construction of the British Columbia electric Railway. (Jeremy`s Aunt Joyce and father, Jack were born there),before he signed up with the Canadian Field Artillery in 1916 to fi ght in France. the Battle of vimy Ridge saw him invalided out of the service and return to farm in elmore Back in 1921 until the tenancy became available at Maisemore Court in 1929. this was a welcome return for his grandfather as much family history lies in the surrounding area; Jeremy’s Great Grandfather lived at Abloads Court in sandhurst and owned a renowned butcher’s shop in southgate street. His grandfather grew up there, while his

grandmother lived at Bengrove Farm, where the Lane family farmed. Jeremy’s father, known as Jack Chamberlayne, fi nished his studies at Cirencester Royal Agricultural College in 1935 and went into partnership with his father at Maisemore Court, where they farmed dairy, beef, arable and fruit. But Jack saw a better fi nancial future in the private sector and went to work for the Commercial Union. He married Barbara Fowler of tirley Hill in 1939 and lived in Court Cottage, now Old Court, (part of the Maisemore Court house), where Jeremy was born. the opportunity then arose for his parents to buy Ashleworth Court, where they moved in 1942, to farm its 160 acres of dairy and mixed farming land.

Jeremy studied Agriculture at Reading University (1959-63), where he met and duly married val. in 1960 his grandfather announced he was going to retire from farming at Maisemore and Jeremy’s father put in a bid to the Church Commissioner for the tenancy,

20 • tHe HistORY OF... MAiseMORe COURt

Maisemore Court Jeremy and Val Chamberlayne kindly offered to show me around their home and business at Maisemore Court this month and talked to me about some of their fascinating local family history.



which was granted. Jeremy and val arrived back in Old Court in 1963 and, in 1964; the whole Maisemore estate was sold to the sitting tenants, as part of a process of reorganising Church funds. At this point, Chamberlayne Farms Ltd. was formed. they sold the dairy herd and concentrated on expanding the farm’s arable crop production. By 1990 the farm buildings, after years of modification, were not in good shape and no longer suited to a modern farming operation. Jeremy decided that these exceptional victorian (Award winning) farm buildings, only two miles from Gloucester, could be conserved for the future and yield an income to supplement the meagre returns from farming if they were converted into a modern business centre. At the same time, new and efficient farm buildings could be erected nearby. He set about raising the money and obtaining planning permission for a business centre and improved farm buildings. three years later, in 1993, and

despite many objections and obstacles to his vision of farm diversification, Phase One, (the two victorian courtyards) was officially opened, by Lord Plumb, in 1993. this was followed by the Coach-house and then the Dutch Barn conversion in 1999. these barns were originally built in 1896 and also in 1936, when grandfather, Frank, was the tenant. Original cost – £185.

Jeremy appropriately named the business centre the steadings after finding old documents that referred to “outlying steadings, each consisting of barn and shelter sheds.” the complete project was finished in 1999 and improvements are always ongoing. But this is no ordinary business centre. Jeremy has won several awards for the environmental elements of the business. He has won two CLA design awards, one for the victorian conversion and one for the Dutch Barns and the national Green Apple Award for the centre’s heating system, which is entirely self-sufficient on burning recyclable

waste materials from the office complex and the farm. the business centre has its own water supply and own sewerage system which in turn nurtures a reed bed and the business is currently considering solar panels on grain stores. Jeremy is most proud of the fact that ten people, out of the 150 at the steadings, are Maisemore residents and the longest serving tenant is the local branch of the nFU. the cost of today’s completed project was rather more than the £1,600 spent on the victorian buildings in 1860 and the £185 spent on the Dutch Barns, amounting to £2million.

Development still continues and current projects include a proposed new grain store and a new area of ground floor office space covering 600 sq ft and comprising of two rooms. the Chamberlayne Family still run a successful arable farming operation covering a total 1200 acres of land and managed by Jeremy’s son, Luke, his brother, Humphrey, and his son, Robert, who now lives in Ashleworth Court with his three children and their families. Jeremy’s other son, Robin, lives in Old Court (Jeremy and val moved into the main house in 1978) and rents an office in the steadings for his Financial Advisory business. Michelle Chamberlayne manages the tenants of the steadings Business Centre. Jeremy is supposed to be retiring soon but after meeting him and hearing him speak so passionately about the business and its future plans, i think Michelle and the team may have to take him on in an advisory capacity as it seems Jeremy’s vision and drive is still as strong today as it was fifty years ago!

Anyone wishing to enquire further about office space or the new developments at The Steadings Business Centre should call Michelle on 01452 700028 www.steadingsbusinesscentre.co.uk

Before conversion

Part of The Steadings Business Centre



no, i didn’t believe Roger Paine either when he told me he commuted to Dubai on a daily

basis so when he invited me to learn more about his international video conferencing business, i went to meet him at his virtual office to find out how technology can now take us around the world in seconds at a fraction of the cost of our time in getting there or a plane ticket.

Roger partly relocated to Hartpury from Dubai two years ago after a long period of time living in the United

Arab emirates. He has always had a flair for technology, starting out as a DJ for Capital Radio and becoming the voice of Capital Breakfast in Abu Dhabi. numerous years working for the video Meeting Company owned then by noel edmunds gave Roger the skills and knowledge to set up on his own company as video Meeting international Limited. Roger was keen to start his business in Dubai as the country was a prime target for the video conferencing key markets of legal and financial companies. the newly

created ‘’DiFC’’ Dubai international Financial Centre was also being created, which meant 4, 5000 companies were moving into the Free Zone trading complex accommodating around 38,000 people. it seemed like the perfect time and place to set up an additional office to the UK office. Over the next five years the business went from strength to strength as company’s realised the huge time and financial value in being able to hold meetings around the world without the time and cost of travelling. Previously video conferencing technology was unreliable and expensive but nowadays it is easy to use, very good quality and excellent value for money. not only can video conferencing be used in offices and homes on your PC but with the advent of the iPhone4 the ability to video conference anywhere around the world means you can connect with people anywhere at anytime. this truly is the age of ‘Meeting without Moving’. this is Roger’s mantra and two years ago, when his children began University degrees in the UK, he took it literally and he moved back to Hartpury with his family. now he visits Dubai six / eight times a year but talks to the office every day via video conferencing. He showed me how it works. i simply sat at the computer and the desk top video conferencing solution picked up my presence and surroundings, we dialled Dubai and in seconds someone from the Dubai office appeared on the screen and started chatting. it’s that simple and more importantly, there was no delay and the image was crystal clear.

During the recession, Roger has seen his business expand particularly due to recruitment companies conducting interviews for international jobs via video conferencing. in addition, the technology is also now being used for court hearings. since the law now allows video testimonials to be permissible by the courts, hearings can now be heard via video link. On the

22 • LOCAL BUsiness insPiRAtiOn

Video Meeting InternationalMeet the Hartpury man who commutes to Dubai every day…’’Meeting Without Moving’’

Imag

e co

urt

esy

of

Glo

uce

ster

shir

e M

edia


day i visited Roger had clients with a court hearing in scotland booked in the morning and one in new Zealand in the evening; it’s a 24/7 operation.

there are two ways of ‘buying in’ to video conferencing. either you rent an offi ce in any location you want where all the technology and assistance is provided for you; so if you worked in Bristol and needed a meeting with someone in edinburgh then video Meeting international would set you up with an offi ce space, a dial up number and a connection and away you go - or you buy the equipment and video Meeting international link up the locations you wish to be connected to. ten years ago it cost £40,000 to link two locations now it costs just £5,000 for the same, so if your company chooses to install the equipment the cost is immediately regained from day one against the time and money saved in travel and your carbon foot print is almost halved overnight. in

a 12 month period the savings according to one Managing Partner were ‘worth the equivalent of 5 employee’s annual salaries’.

the biggest users of video conferencing in the world are the legal and fi nancial sectors. However, the service is not just for very large international companies. it is perfect for businesses of all sizes who are struggling for offi ce space. with access to video conferencing, employees can work from home and connect to the main offi ce anytime, anywhere, cutting down on offi ce rental, travel time and general overheads. it is also ideal for those who may not have a great enough need for installing the equipment on a permanent basis but can save on travel and management time by hiring a video conferencing offi ce by the hour. Roger’s Dubai offi ce now has every space rented out daily for up to 9 hours at a time. in the UK, his offi ce in Hartpury is also available to

rent for video conferencing meetings so if you are a local business who needs to meet in Paris your travel costs are about £1 and it will take you around 30 seconds to get there…via Hartpury!

By 2012 fi bre optic cables currently being deployed across the UK with 100 Meg speeds will then make it possible for every home to have access to video conferencing 24hrs a day. Until then, we have Roger and video Meeting international. Roger admits that video conferencing can not replace every meeting but it does enable us to work smarter, not harder, and that is surely what life should be about.


Find out more about video conferencing by calling Roger on 07721 536619 or you will fi nd everything you need to know on his websites: www.video-connections.eu and www.video-meet.co.uk


We won’t be beaten on Price or Quality

FREEPHONE 0800 389 94262 / 07792 676760 SEPTEMBER OFFER

ALL ORDERS FURTHER 25% OFF

•Block Paving & Patios •Tarmac Drives

•Kerbs •All garden

work undertaken •FREE Quotes and Advice

Friendly Reliable Service

Shurdington, Bentham, Bentham Lane, Cheltenham, GL51 4UT WE ARE REGULATED



the Other Half is a huge fan of Asian food, as am i. so when we were invited to dine at spice

Lodge in Cheltenham by manager Mohammed Rahman we spent the following week very much looking forward to our meal there.

we chose a tuesday night to eat and arrived in good time for our 7.30pm table. Most of the tables in the main restaurant were occupied already and the guests were a good mix of families, friends, couples and business people. the building is very grand and welcoming in a typical Regency Cheltenham townhouse type of way. Over the years the building itself has been a private house, a hotel and part of the eagle star complex as eagle Lodge. in 2005 Mohammed and his team converted eagle Lodge into spice Lodge and this month will celebrate the restaurant’s five year anniversary. the inside of the restaurant has three main dining areas on the ground floor. we

sat in the main restaurant, a large and airy room tastefully decorated in earthy colours, long sweeping drapes and mirrors; classic and comfortable.

the best thing about the spice Lodge is the choice of food. Because it is a Pan Asian restaurant there are several menus to choose from: indian, thai and the Du Jour, a fusion menu of Asian

based dishes. All dishes can be ‘mixed and matched’. in addition, traditional favourites such as Kormas, Bhunas and Baltis can be prepared on request. Over a pre-starter of very stylish looking triangular poppadoms and delicious dips, we eventually chose our starters. A sabji Milan for me: vegetable platter of samosa, Pakora and Potato Cake; a choice from the indian Menu and a Goong Been thai dish for Andy; Deep Fried tiger Prawns in sesame seed Batter and sweet Chilli sauce. the food arrived beautifully presented and smelling delicious. My sabji Milan was the perfect size and the individual dishes were very tasty indeed.

Andy declared his prawns as ‘some of the best prawns i have ever eaten.’ the batter was light and crispy and the prawns succulent and well cooked.

For our main courses we both chose from the indian Menu this time, unable to resist the mouth watering descriptions of the signature Dishes. i went for the Old Delhi style Chicken Curry and Andy chose the tandoori seared Lamb Rack with Masala Mashed Potato. the menu describes the dishes as ‘contemporary, healthy dishes created with exceptional flair and outstanding ingredients.’ this was certainly the case when our dishes arrived. the presentation was superb and the aroma of the tandoori spices was so aromatic and inviting we paid no heed to the prettiness of our food and dived straight in. Both dishes were very fresh and flavoursome with none of the usual piles of rice and curry swimming in sauce. the spices were very delicate and well balanced in both dishes. Andy’s lamb was tender and tasty and my chicken moist and chunky. we both agreed the Masala Mash was out of this world and we would try and re-create this at home. the only ‘criticism’ was

Spice Lodge Cheltenham

The best thing about the

Spice Lodge is the choice

of food. Because it is a

Pan Asian restaurant

there are several menus

to choose from: Indian,

Thai and the Du Jour,

a fusion menu of Asian

based dishes.

25 • RestAURAnt Review



that the lamb was so good Andy could have eaten it twice and wanted more; unfortunately, this was not an option as we had dessert to fi t in.

Dessert is not usually top of the list in an indian restaurant so we didn’t really know what to expect. we were pleasantly surprised to see a good selection of ice cream dishes (with a good dollop of chocolate and cream on most to appeal to our english sweet tooth) along with several traditional indian desserts. we chose a Gulab jamun to share and we can only describe this dish as a cross between an American donut, and english syrup sponge pudding with a rice pudding fl avour coming through. try it. You won’t be disappointed. Of course, being english, we fancied a blob of cream to

fi nish it off but i insisted we didn’t ask and show ourselves up! the service was faultless and professional throughout, the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming and the background music appropriate and non-intrusive. what an enjoyable evening we had.

Mohammed suggested we have a look at the rooms on the second fl oor of the restaurant so before we left we took a peek. there are 2 more private dining rooms each seating around 20 - 25 people, well decorated and designed with lots of natural light from the huge windows. it would be the perfect place to come for a private dining celebration or business dinner. the third room is a conference room set for around 20 people, with the other rooms available as break out rooms. the spice Lodge can also cater for weddings and outside catering events.

Our meal cost around £50 for two people with drinks, which is good value bearing in mind we chose the more expensive signature dishes and had 3 courses. You can, of course, choose the lower priced traditional dishes but we wanted to try some really authentic Pan Asian cooking and we would certainly try more of the thai dishes on our next visit. i am quite ashamed i have only just discovered this fantastic venue and will be returning with the whole family in tow in the very near future.

26 • RestAURAnt Review



whilst enjoying a chat with a few friends at the weekend the subject of ‘severn

village Living’ came up and then my column, it seems that i have quite a following!! we all agreed what a good publication it is too and this is certainly the feedback i have been getting.

the conversation soon turned to how successful the column had been in raising awareness of what we do at Riverford – it was then that it became obvious that we still have some barriers to overcome from this comment, ‘the problem is you have to have what you are given in the boxes’. this was when i realised that perhaps we still have a long way to go to let people know how we sell fruit and veg.

Yes, we have a full range of set boxes, these vary in contents and size and price. what is in these boxes is the immovable contents and to this extent my friend was right. what he didn’t realise (he now does) is that we sell every single item we retail in the boxes individually (unless the

weather intervenes) and that you can order exactly what you want and it is delivered – including all categories such as milk, fruit, eggs and vegetables etc. especially with ‘Grow Your Own’ so prominent this is ideal as we can dovetail in with the allotment or garden. the only thing we ask is that you spend over £12.50.

Of course there are also many other fl exible features; order when you want – you do not need to have a box or delivery every week. Add anything you like to a veg box such as a bag of bananas etc, you do not need to be in to receive the delivery and that you can pay and order online (or use us here in the offi ce in Cheltenham).

the value of the boxes is obviously better but having said this, ordering your own order will result in larger sale weights being received plus the produce that you want and without any waste, so there really is very little difference. Our overall fruit and veg box range is around 20% cheaper than tesco, waitrose and sainsbury’s for

organic and we do not charge for delivery. Obviously our produce is fresher and tastes better and keeps longer as a result.

Riverford always has a story somewhere and this year, after a small scale trial last year, we are selling fl owers from the Farm for £16.49. Delightfully packaged and presented they will provide the perfect gift for someone. One of the old romantics in the group was particularly tempted by this however having already bought some that weekend thought a second bunch may set alarm bells ringing and set a dangerous precedent!!

Most people who try us are simply enthused by the difference in taste and freshness and add in the convenience of it being delivered to your door, there really is no better time to give us a try – if your gardens are overfl owing (as the Farm is) then try us when they run dry later in the year.

27 • RiveRFORD ORGAniCs

Riverford Organics With Marc Fowler of Riverford Home Delivery

Beetroot curry Wear plastic gloves to peel the beetroot so you don’t stain your hands. Serve with rice and yoghurt. This recipe is suitable for freezing; just leave the fresh coriander out.

in a wok or large pan, heat the oil and add the mustard seeds. when they start to pop, add the onion, garlic and chillies and fry until the onion is soft. Add the rest of the spices and the beetroot and fry for another couple of mins. Add the tomatoes and water, then season with salt to taste. simmer for 15-20 mins, stirring now and then, until the beetroot is tender. Add the coconut milk and simmer for another couple of minutes until the sauce has thickened.

stir in the lime juice, add more salt and ground pepper to taste. Add the fresh coriander leaves just before serving with the rice and yoghurt.

Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 mins Cooking Time: 30 minsIngredients:

400g beetroot, peeled and cubed2 tbsp groundnut or sunfl ower oil½ tsp black mustard seeds1 onion peeled and thinly sliced2 cloves garlic, crushed or fi nely chopped2 chillies, deseeded and fi nely chopped2 curry leaves (or bay leaves)1 tsp ground coriander1 tsp ground cumin¼ tsp turmeric¼ tsp ground cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick4 tomatoes, chopped200ml water100ml coconut milkJuice of 1 limeHandful of fresh coriander chopped

Yoghurt and boiled rice to serve

If you want to give us a try or have any queries just give us a call on 01242 587246



the King’s school is one of the leading independent Day schools in the area, with around 500 pupils, girls and boys, aged three to eighteen. King’s offers academic excellence,

outstanding pastoral care and a unique programme to identify and develop individual talents and personal qualities. the inspiring Cathedral setting is unequalled; giving a special sense of identity and encouraging a moral framework and a powerful sense of community.

in a recent inspection by the independent schools inspectorate the school was praised for its “outstanding pastoral care” and “special sense of identity” and the pupils were found to have “a positive attitude to study and high standards of behaviour”.

Music and drama play a very important role with regular concerts and performances being staged throughout the year and pupils are actively encouraged to participate in the many extra-curricular activities on offer. King’s is also proud of its status within the sporting community particularly with its academy alliances with both Gloucestershire County Cricket Club and Gloucester Rugby Club.

For all achievements and results, however, it is the “feel” of a school which is so important and visitors to King’s tend to be struck immediately by the friendly family environment.

King’s next Full School Open Morning is on Saturday 2nd October between 10.00am and 12 noon. For further information, or to arrange an individual tour, please contact sharon Bird, the Registrar on 01452 337337 or [email protected] / www.thekingsschool.co.uk

28 • ADveRtORiAL



My very wonderful sister-in-law wanted to give us a special present to mark the opening

of our ‘Lots of Lemons Delicatessen’ and had the exciting idea of hiring a celebrity chef to pop along and cut the ribbon. Her fi rst point of call was a public relations fi rm who dealt with James Martin and, to be honest, i don’t think her motives were completely selfl ess as it has to be said the man is rather scrumptious.

the fi rm in question answered in a prompt and professional manner stating that for the small fee of £10,000; not including vAt you understand, James would be delighted to come along. For this very reasonable price he would do not one, not two but three forty fi ve minute demonstrations, including posing for ‘local press’ photographs and mingling with guests. But wait, there was even more, as he would also be happy to do book signings.

Under the small title of ‘Clients expenses’ there was mention of a

home economist to assist James, as presumably James’ job is to demonstrate and not prepare, plus the cost of ingredients, return travel and overnight accommodation if necessary.

You can understand my chagrin when Debs, afore mentioned sister-in-law, forwarded the email onto to us saying that, as much as she loved us and wanted to get something special, in this case it would have to be the thought that counted.

the email dissolved me into giggles and got me wondering who the crème de le crème of the chef circuit was. Did nigella beat sophie, would Jamie pip Gordon or did Delia take the cake? (ok, i promise no more bad puns). so i spent an interesting time surfi ng the net but found it almost impossible to fi nd contact details for the top chefs, let alone how much they cost, but i did fi nd out about a few others. Richard Corrigan, ed Baines and theo Randall (have you heard of these people) are very reasonable at a starting cost of

£3500 followed by the obviously more important Lesley waters and Aldo Zilli at a mere £5,500.

so should you decide to visit the ‘Lots of Lemons Deli’ we are sad to report you will not have an audience with a famous chef and regret you will have to make do with just the Lemons, who have absolutely no celebrity status. But on the other hand, if you need us to do an appearance at a fete or fair, we come at the very reasonable cost of two, for the price of nothing!

Sarahp.s. Do you think James would consider a stretcher bed in the Deli overnight?

Next Month: I report back on Cotswold Gold, a dynamic new company making rapeseed oil that is grown and produced in the county.

Deli Heaven

Taking the PipSarah Lemon – Lots of Lemons Delicatessen, Bishops Cleeve

A FEW OF OUR SUPPLIERS: TEA PIGS / GRUMPY MULE COFFEE / FINE SPICE & OIL COMPANY

`OLIVES ET AL / KITCHEN GARDEN PRESERVES / BRAMLEY & CAGE / HOBBS HOUSE BAKERY / NUDO PESTO & PASTAS / COSTWOLD MERINGUES /

COTSWOLD GOLD / JAMNASTICS

29 • DeLi HeAven




in these confusing and worrying economic times, it is good to know there are professionals on hand

to guide us through the maze of emergency budgets, tax changes and vAt increases.

Griffiths Marshall is one of Gloucester’s most established and well reputed firms. their wealth of accountancy and business experience has been helping clients reach their full potential for over 25 years. From two founding partners the number of partners has grown to five and the firm has also added to its portfolio with the introduction of a Lydney office last April. Local Forest resident and partner, ian Price, is now managing this office assisted by the expertise of previous owner Jeremy williams. Jeremy is now a consultant to the practice enabling him to ensure that the business is handed over in the most efficient and professional manner. Griffiths Marshall has strong links in the Forest with a number of key staff living in the area. they already act for a number of clients and have an additional office in Mitcheldean so have a good understanding of local Forest businesses. Griffiths Marshall is very community focused and gets involved with many sporting and community events. in

particular they are proud sponsors of the stroud Half Marathon, Gloucester and Lydney Rugby Clubs, Broadwell and winchcombe AFC and have staff links with Cinderford Rugby Club.

Griffiths Marshall understands that accountancy is a necessary service for every business. Griffiths Marshall take on the burden of all the compliance issues such as payroll, annual accounts, audits and tax returns and in doing so leaves the client free to do what they do best – sell and market their business. the firm is proud to have many long term clients and the majority of their business is won through referrals. their good service has even been recommended on the which? consumer website. Griffiths Marshall is a successful practice with expertise in many areas and deal with a wide range of clients from the self employed to large businesses turning over in excess of £50 million per annum in all business sectors from farming to retail, legal to charities. the main focus of their business is to build and maintain close client relationships based on trust and good advice and they take pride in the fact that their service exceeds client expectations.

in the recent economic climate, Griffiths Marshall has been busy helping

clients with a different kind of financial service. All of us in business today need to evolve to survive in these difficult times. By working closely with clients to put together cash flows and business plans the firm assists businesses when they are trying to secure bank finance. with unsettling changes in Government legislation: two budgets to date and another scheduled for December coupled with a vAt increase in January and new vAt online filing regulations; any business would be forgiven for feeling a little confused. it would therefore be a good idea to look to the future and get ahead of the ‘game’ so as not to get left behind when these changes are upon us. Griffiths Marshall offers a free initial consultation that allows you to discuss your business and your needs in complete confidence. they will give honest and straightforward advice about your next step. simply meet them, take some time to consider your options and re-visit when the time is right for you. Don’t worry about the future; meet it head on and let someone else take on the burden leaving you with the time and vision to nurture and grow your business.

Talk Money Special With Griffiths Marshall, Chartered Accountants

31 • tALK MOneY

To book your free initial consultation with Griffiths Marshall call 01452 520000 for Gloucester or 01594 843635 for the Forest. Email [email protected] or log on to www.griffithsmarshall.co.uk for full contact details. There is free, easy onsite parking at all Griffiths Marshall Offices.


01452 398010 Gloucester and Surrounding Areas 01531 828970 Newent and West Gloucestershire

Highnam £295,000 A spacious four bedroom detached house located in a small cul-de-sac on the western fringes of this sought after residential development, living room with feature fireplace, gas central heating, tandem garage, enclosed rear garden, double width drive-way. Offered with no onward chain.

Hartpury £375,000 A charming and most interesting three bedroom detached cottage which occupies a large rectangular plot backing onto fields located on the western outskirts of this popular village. Sitting room with Inglenook, horseshoe driveway providing parking for several vehicles, private, mature and well stocked garden with chicken run

Hartpury £375,000 A most appealing four bedroom detached house in this sought after village location north of Gloucester. The accommodation briefly comprises; entrance porch, entrance hall, cloakroom, sitting room, dining area, study, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, four bedrooms, bathroom, en suite shower room, ample parking and double garage.

All available properties listed in detail online

www.naylorpowell.com


Documents

Severn Village Living 0910