www.roundandabout.co.uk

abingdon / kingston bagpuize FEBRUARY 2023





read all about it

Discover books and authors at literature festivals, enjoy escapism and treat yourself to some ‘me time’

care supplement

Help to make the best decisions for you and your loved ones make a dress dream come true

Could you donate a prom dress to Abingdon good cause to help a teen go to the ball?

COMpetitions

Three nights in luxury Devon shepherd’s hut £250 of handmade designer jewellery

Q&A

with Author

KATE MOSSE

Exceptional Breadth | Individual Focus

Open Morning Saturday 25 February cokethorpe.org

W HAT ' S I N SI D E

Contents FEBRUARY 2023 | Vol. 30 | No. 2

5 Community spotlight

40 Competitions

6 You shall go to the ball

41 Lots of love

8 Soo Bahk Do

42 Cost-conscious couscous

21 Book your seat

46 The art of the author

27 Care choices

47 Classified

Local news and charity events

Donate a prom dress

Start your martial arts journey

Literature festivals in 2023

Enjoying your later life

Free to enter online

Valentine's gift ideas

8

Cooking on a budget

Q&A with Kate Mosse

46

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AB OUT US

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Your Community events and activities

Love is in the air... Valentine’s Day is looming, as you might have noticed thanks to the shop windows festooned in hearts. But, of course, love takes many forms, even more powerful than romance. As you can see on these very pages (plus our online & abuzz on our social media feed) there is so much care of all kinds in the community. There are many ways to connect & show you care close to home. eeling energetic?! If so, I invite you to step up to join the virtual 2,100 squats challenge in honour of our Armed Forces community. Your fundraising could help provide emergency accommodation for a veteran in need, food vouchers for a family facing hardship, or training for dementia nurses. To sign up & pledge your support, please visit britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved ˜˜˜ How about this for a bit of creative adventure for a great cause?! On Saturday, 4th February, at 7pm in Abingdon's Trinity Church Conduit Centre, Jennifer Warwick will lead a hands-on ceviche masterclass. Eat and have fun learning how to make the Peruvian national dish with Jennifer, who lived in Lima and ran a successful seafood restaurant. £10pp with proceeds to next year's Abingdon Passion Play. Any enquiries please email ejpony@ hotmail.com. And if you're not reading this in time for that, make a date for a hog roast at the Barns at Christ Church, OX14 1PL, on Saturday, 11th March, from 5.30pm. This will feature a classic combination of a yummy hog roast (plus veggie option!) a fine selection of drinks and a

˜˜˜ My local stars of the month are nine-year-old Albie Logan and his mum Claire who would love your help. Albie had a difficult start in life, contracting meningitis hours after his tricky delivery. Thanks to his strength, he beat the odds to survive his early days but was left with severe disabilities following a stroke, and cerebral palsy. When Albie was 18 months old he underwent surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital to help ease his seizures, life has not been an easy ride since but, "he started to become the happy boy he was meant to be," says Claire, "and his development started to take off." Could you help Albie live life to the full by donating towards a fund to buy him a Vanraam bike? Visit just4children.org & search Albie Logan.

line-up of excellent local music groups... Tickets £15 in advance and £20 on the door. Please email [email protected] and watch this space next month for more details.

d...Continued on page 10.

Tell us about your group’s activities and meetings by 2nd February Email [email protected] or visit www.Roundandabout.co.uk

JOIN US...

All information correct at time of going to press – in these uncertain times please do check with event organisers.

R&A | 5

S UPPORT

Prom queens

Can you support the team behind Madrina Oxfordshire to help students go to the ball in wonderful donated prom outfits? adrina is Italian for godmother, as sometimes we need help from others to achieve our dreams.

a dress or a suit and students who have chaotic home lives or parents with addictions.” BH&O Family lawyers and mediators in Abingdon can accept donations to be sent to Madrina and Bury Street Precinct in Abingdon has

ear, A Local ce With A Smile

ear rd hese

Madrina Oxfordshire is a not-forprofit initiative which collects donated outfits for students who cannot afford or have access to prom outfits for themselves.

Caroline Jewell tells us: “Students who may benefit from Madrina are students with sensory issues such as autism who may feel overwhelmed by the shopping be madestudents in using our experience, who don’t service. Unfortunately we know whether they want to wear

provided an empty shop for storage of the clothes. On-demand laundry service ihateironing has also offered its dry cleaning services. “All of this is, of course, good for reducing waste and recycling,” adds Caroline. “We’ve had people kindly buy dresses and donate them when they’ve seen them in charity shops. These students have already had to face so many more hurdles, it seems particularly cruel for them to be excluded from the celebrations of the achievements because they haven’t got the right clothes.”  See Madrina Oxfordshire on Facebook for more details.

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MART IAL ARTS

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potential In April 2022, Sabrina Mistry, a 2nd Dan black belt in Soo Bahk Do launched Dojang X Martial Arts Academy in Abingdon, motivated to challenge how we perceive exercise and traditional martial arts and to encourage more people to take up physical activity rowing up I didn’t find sports engaging,” says certified personal trainer Sabrina, “this led to me being unfit, overweight and lacking confidence. It was only when I took accountability for my health in 2007 and underwent a fitness transformation through merging the gym and Soo Bahk Do training, that I realised how life changing this was. “I found the combination perfect to sustain my fitness motivation and to develop my focus and calmness to deal with situations. At Dojang X, I want to support others to reach their potential in a similar way.” Dojang X Martial Arts Academy is in Sabrina’s own words “very personable” with people of all ages and abilities getting involved. The belt promotions awarded to students at Dojang X gives students a special place in Oxfordshire’s history of this martial art. Sessions combine martial arts training with effective exercises to improve one’s athleticism and martial arts skills. She adds: “We offer mixed age classes starting from 7+ years old, which includes teens and adults. You’re welcome to train alone, with family members and/or friends. We also offer 8 | FEBRUARY 2023

a ‘Little Ninjas’ programme for four to six year olds that helps develop confidence, train motor skills and promote focus.” Soo Bahk Do originates from the Korean Silla Dynasty (618-935 AD). The present art was founded in 1945 when Hwang Kee incorporated the Moo Duk Kwan. The style is influenced by Shotokan Karate and Northern Chinese styles whilst focusing on the kicking techniques for which Korean martial arts are renowned. Hwang Kee (1914-2002) was a distinguished martial artist and applied science to his system. The techniques taught are natural body mechanics. Sabrina explains: “We emphasise practical application and personal development to promote wellness and the ability to deal with situations in a mature and fair manner.” People start their martial arts journey for various reasons. These include: getting fit, learning self defence, improving concentration, making new friends and developing confidence. These benefits apply for any martial arts style. To help decide whether a style and instructor is suitable for your goals, trial a session and ask questions. If you’d like a free trial at Dojang X, contact: [email protected]

R&A | 9

SPOTLIG HT

á ...Continued from page 5.

˜˜˜ A reminder that the next yoga and ceramics retreat will take place on 4th February, 11am-4.30pm in The River Room, Sutton Courtenay. The day starts with a relaxing yoga practice with Laurence Nagy (nagy-yoga. com), followed by a delicious vegetarian lunch made by Claudia Dietrich of Carrots & Curls, then hand building with potter Charlotte Storrs; two pots per person will be glazed and fired. The day will finish with tea and homemade biscuits. Email [email protected] ˜˜˜ After the Norman conquest major bridges across the Thames were established at Oxford, Abingdon and Wallingford, initially as wooden structures and later as stone. Keith Parry will talk about Thames Bridges Between Oxford & Abingdon on Monday, 13th February, 7.30- 9pm at St James Church the Great Church in Radley. Keith, a trustee of The Historic Towns Trust, will focus on the older road bridges, particularly those in Oxford and Abingdon, as the guest of Radley History Club. Non-members welcome – a donation of £2.50 will be appreciated. radleyhistoryclub.org.uk ˜˜˜ On Wednesday, 15th February, Nick Wray, curator of the University of Bristol Botanic Garden, will give an illustrated talk on The Gardens of Sicily, as the guest

of Culham & District Horticultural Club. The talk will take place in Dorchester Abbey at 7.30pm (please arrive at 715pm). Members free and visitors very welcome (suggested donation of £4). For more details please call 01235 850381 or email [email protected] ˜˜˜ The youth theatre company DIY Theatre invite you enjoy their latest musical production The Little Shop of Horrors at Amey Theatre (inside Abingdon School, OX14 1DE) on 17th, 18th and 19th February. In spite of the scary name, the show is jam-packed with joy, laughter and musical delights, delivered by the young troupe aged between eight and 20 with the help of a live band. Suitable for all ages. Please visit ameytheatre.co.uk ˜˜˜ All parents have occasions when they need to go out without their child and call on the services of a sitter – maybe a grandparent, a friend or perhaps a trusted teenager. For parents of a severely disabled child, it is not so straightforward. Flexicare is a local charity that provides a free sitting service for these families, which can be life-changing. Currently, more volunteers are needed; perhaps you could help? Please call 01865 321881 or email [email protected]

d...Continued on page 14.

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n January 1st, Christians in the Church of England celebrated the feast of ‘the Holy Name of Jesus’. In the ancient Roman church, its celebration so close to Christmas put the Virgin Mary front and centre but by the ninth century the theme of the circumcision of Jesus overtook that theme. The English Prayer Book therefore knew the feast as ‘The Circumcision of Christ’. In current practice the theme of the Holy Name is privileged and provides occasion to sing some lovely hymns extolling the name ‘Jesus’ (which means ‘saviour’). But all is not gain. While there are bound to be feminist-type objections to a theme so exclusively male, the fact is Jesus was born a Jewish male, and it was on Jewish males only that circumcision was performed as the outward and visible sign of their status as ‘sons of the covenant’. That spiritual bond with all of its practical and moral out workings is signalled by his circumcision so that the cultic ceremony performed on Jewish baby boys is basic to understand who Jesus is and how he saves. Jesus’ circumcision roots him in the Hebrew-Jewish tradition of faith and practice yet also helps us to understand the ‘new’ covenant in his blood by which graces are gifted by the Spirit to believers for the sake of their transformation into glistening images of God. It’s a festival when every male might well say to himself ‘Ouch!’ But eras previous to our own paid scant attention to ‘feelings’ or even a degree of inner or outward pain in conforming to religious (or indeed many other) obligations. Duty and obligation prevailed; feelings were managed not privileged. Whatever pain Jesus felt on circumcision-day became one of his life’s great themes. Is there not a lesson there for those of the ‘new’ covenant too? The Revd Dr Charles Miller Team Rector of the Parish of Abingdonon-Thames

SPOTLIG HT

á ...Continued from page 10.

There are more wildlife wonders to enjoy at Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, OX14 4TE. Wild Connections (for adults) is the second Friday of the month, 10.30-noon, £3pp. On Saturday, 11th February, 10am-3.30pm there's Wild Weaving: Willow Bird Feeders (for adults). Half term (13th-16th February, 10am-2pm) features a dinosaur-themed family trail on the nature reserve for families with children aged between four and 11 years (£5 per child) and there's a Teen Practical Conservation Day on Friday 17th, 10am3pm when 13-17-year-olds can get their hands dirty and learn some practical conservation techniques (£25. For these, and the Young and Teen Rangers sessions & Nature Tots, plus much more, please visit bbowt.org.uk

˜˜˜

Explore The Art of the Cartoonist with Harry Venning on Wednesday, 15th February, at Abingdon's Abbey Cinema at 10.30am & 2pm. Harry will trace the history of his profession with examples from early practitioners Cruickshank and Hogarth, to artists such as Giles & Schulz, bringing events up to date with cartoons fresh on the page as he draws live. Prepare to hear tricks of his trade, learn where to put eyebrows for maximum effect and discover what the eskimo brothers said in The Funniest Joke Ever (possibly).

˜˜˜

˜˜˜ On Thursday, 16th February, at 6pm Abingdon Library will host local author Colin Wade for a talk about his crime and conspiracy thrillers, which include Plutus, Deadly Connections and his latest book The Sins of the Father. As well as an audience Q&A, there will be an opportunity to buy a signed copy of one of his books. Tickets £2 including a free glass of wine or juice, available from the library or call 01235 520374. ˜˜˜ Birds of the Russian Far East is the enticing topic by Chris Collins will explore thanks to the RSPB Vale of White Horse local group on Monday, 20th February, at 7.30pm via Zoom only. Chris will offer a comprehensive review of the birds and wildlife of this amazing, but rarely visited region, including details of the nine-year search for the spoon-billed sandpiper. All are welcome; please visit rspb-vwh.org.uk or call 01235 818072. ˜˜˜ Trinity Evergreen Club, for the over-60s, meets on the third Monday of each month (except August). On Monday, 20th February, 2.30-4pm at the Conduit Centre, OX14 1DB, there will be a Beetle Drive, a raffle, tea and biscuits and a very warm welcome, all for just £1. Please call Tricia Cook on 01865 736153 or email [email protected] for more info.

d...Continued on page 18.

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SPOTLIG HT

á ...Continued from page 14.

˜˜˜ On Tuesday, 21st February, Richard Kirby will give a talk, Rotary: In Abingdon For Good – Not Many People Know That. The perception of many is that Rotary is a lunch club for old men. Increasingly, however, Rotary is changing into a service organisation working for the good of the world. The Abingdon group meet in the pub on Wednesday evenings for a drink and plan events to benefit the community and raise money for local and international charities. Richard will look at the origins of Rotary, the organisation required to control 1¼ million Rotarians and its values and achievements. Known to many in Abingdon as the quizmaster of DNAPQ, a style of quiz he conceived in 2014, Richard has been an active Rotarian for 15 years, a Paul Harris Fellow, president of the Abingdon Club on two occasions and chairs the working group that manages the Rotary international post-graduate scholars in Thames Valley. Everyone is welcome (non-members of the Abingdon & District National Trust Association £4 please). The talk is at 2.30pm at Trinity Church Hall, OX14 1DB. ˜˜˜ When we think of evolution, the first person who springs to mind is Charles Darwin. In The Origin of Species (1859), Darwin presented evidence supporting

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evolution, proposed the metaphor of an evolutionary "tree", and suggested natural selection acting on variation. But there were still some very big questions... Thanks to the ATOM Society you can enjoy a highly accessible talk by Prof Peter Holland at 7.30pm on Tuesday (new weekday!) 21st February at Abingdon United Football Club, OX14 1PL. Peter (FRS) is Linacre Professor of Zoology at the University of Oxford. He'll explore how animal evolution is studied now, with remarkable insights gained from molecular biology and genome sequencing. More info at atomsociety.org.uk ˜˜˜ It's a New Year which is the perfect time to try a new sport! Thames Valley Croquet Club play every Monday and Friday at the Abingdon Vale Cricket Club in Hales Meadow, Culham Road. They have everything you need, so give it a try. For more details please call Lesley on 01235 835092 or Gillian on 01235 526033. Also visit thamesvalleycroquetclub.co.uk ˜˜˜ Did you know Nordic Walking is one of only five activities recommended by The Chief Medical Officers for a total body workout? South Oxon Free Nordic Walking Group is based in Sutton Courtenay, OX14 4AR, from 9.30am every Wednesday and Friday all year.

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B O O K S & A U T HO R S

Chapter

book can transport you to a new world, take you on adventures you’d never imagined and introduce you to characters you only wish you could meet – or not. J K Rowling, who has sold more than 500 million books worldwide with her stories of a certain young wizard, said “I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book” and she wasn’t just referring to Harry Potter and friends. That ‘magic’ shows no sign of letting up in an age where we are constantly surrounded by screens of one type and another with figures showing that in 2021, more than 212 million print books were sold. We delved into the realms of fantasy and sci fi doing battle in far away galaxies and lands, joined some formidable detectives to solve crimes – many of us no doubt unravelling more J K Rowling mysteries through her Strike series – and fell in love thousands of times with the escapism of a romance. The best-selling novel of 2021 was TV host Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club – hands up if you want to join crime-fighting pensioners Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim at Coopers Chase? Crime certainly pays for many - Agatha Christie is the best-selling novelist of all time through her detective tales of super sleuths, the dapper Belgian Hercule Poirot and the unassuming village busy body Miss Marple.

& verse “I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading” writes Jane Austen in Pride and Prejudice and if you couldn’t agree more then you’ll want to take your seat at one of this year’s literary festivals

She is outsold only by William Shakespeare (there are four billion copies of his works in circulation) and The Bible. As we turn the page into 2023 why not indulge in works by some of our finest novelists, historians and biographers at a literary festival. It’s just as well the Oxford Literary Festival runs for nine days from March 25th to April 2nd, there is such a wealth of talent on show you’d be hard pressed to make the most of it any other way! This year’s is the 26th and while there are far too many to name check, just to give you a taster, Al ‘the pub landlord’ Murray explores his second love, history, looking at military leadership during the Second World War. Crime writers Val McDermuid and Anthony Horowitz are at the Sheldonian and debating some of the biggest issues will be those including the UK’s Covid vaccine taskforce chair Kate Bingham. The festival also includes a host of events for children, R&A | 21

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to town from September 28th to October 1st. More than 40 author talks and events were held last year at venues around town. Children enjoyed Jacqueline Wilson among others alongside free pop-up storytelling events while adults listened to a range of fiction and non-fiction topics from award-winning authors and debut writers. Details to follow for 2023, marlboroughlitfest.org If books and reading are your ‘thing’ then you won’t want to miss these festivals slightly further afield but regarded as some of the best in the field…

again featuring best-selling writers and well known names. For tickets and full programme visit oxfordliteraryfestival.org Dogs, a stately home, the Cuban missile crisis, crime and historical fiction were all on the agenda for Wantage Literary Festival in 2022 and they’ve already started on bookings for this year’s event in October. Planned and organised by a team of volunteers, the festival also features a charitable outreach programme bringing the wonder of words to the community with some free and reduced price events. The schools outreach programme will also return this year. Your suggestions are welcome for speakers, wantageliteraryfestival.co.uk Venues throughout Chipping Norton are preparing themselves for the 2023 ChipLitFest from April 27th to 30th. Previous years have yielded comments such as “an exceptionally welcoming festival”, “a lovely community feel – happy, smiling faces everywhere” and “so much variety, something for everyone”. In addition to talks, there are events for children and schools as well as workshops – truly offering something for everyone! Line up and ticket details at chiplitfest.com Marlborough Literature Festival celebrates the best of writing and books with events for all ages and tastes and this year comes 22 | FEBRUARY 2023

May brings The Bath Festival from 12th to 21st celebrating music and books in the beautiful city. Bath is also home to Europe’s largest dedicated children’s literature festival too which returns this year from September 29th to October 8th. Among those taking part last year were celebrity authors Dermot O’Leary, Rosie Jones and Richard Ayoade and previous Waterstones Children’s Laureates Michael Rosen and Cressida Cowell who all helped bring books and stories to life with a vibrant and varied programme for the whole family. Visit bathfestivals.org.uk/the-bath-festival The world’s first literature festival took place in Cheltenham so true devotees should definitely put October 6th to 15th in their diaries. Cheltenham Literature Festival leads the way in celebrating the written and spoken word, presenting the best new voices in fiction and poetry alongside literary greats and high-profile speakers. The 10-day programme is a mixture of ticketed events, free family activities and events and fringe events staged throughout the regency town. More at www. cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature Former US president Bill Clinton called Hay Festival the “Woodstock of the mind” and it has come a long way since it began in 1988 in a pub garden. It now attracts in excess of 100,000 bibliophiles over its 11 days, this year from May 25th to June 4th, featuring writers, poets, philosophers, historians, scientists, comedians and musicians in a large tented village on the outskirts of town with 10 venues, pop-up cafes, shops and restaurants. Some early bird events have already been revealed, with more to come, hayfestival.com

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á ...Continued from page 18.

Tuition & subsequent SOFNW walks are free with poles provided. You can buy new poles, adjustable to your height, for £25 too. SOFNW has 60+ regular walkers. Please email [email protected] ˜˜˜ On Monday, 20th March, at Long Furlong Community Centre in Abingdon, Catherine Sampson will give a talk on Royal Women, exploring the lives of three Catherine of Aragon, Anne of Cleeves and Lady Catherine Knollys. Their local connections will also be explored including in one case a sojourn at Abingdon Abbey. Doors at 7.15pm for 7.30 start. Non members are most welcome at £5 (cash only). berksfhs.org ˜˜˜ Hagbourne Amateur Dramatic Group will transform East Hagbourne Village Hall into a farm and venue for sheepdog trials for Babe-the Sheep-Pig, at 7.30pm on Wednesday 22nd March; 7.30pm on Friday 24th, Saturday 25th March at 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Tickets from East Hagbourne Community Shop, £10 for adults, £6 for children, or book at wegottickets.com

Do you know about the South Oxfordshire Local Exchange and Trading Scheme? It's part of a national organisation of community-based mutual help networks

˜˜˜

and is local to Wallingford, Henley and surrounding districts. LETS enables members to exchange skills, goods and services without using money, a bit like an organised barter system. It is very helpful way of borrowing something you don’t have, such as a drill, tyre pump, ladder, canoe, a lawn-mower, a leaf-blower, china for a party... the list is endless. Or you might need a hand with some DIY or gardening, or someone to water your plants when you’re on holiday, to feed your cat, give you a lift to the airport, ironing, or a special cake. Members trade using skills, goods and services and pay using a virtual currency, Castles. This voluntary, non-profitmaking group, run and managed by the members, also organise social events, outings and an annual holiday. It's a very simple system that's been working for more than 20 years. For more info email [email protected], or call Simon on 07758 550525. Wallingford Photographic Club continues to offer a warm welcome with a mix of online and in-person meetings (the latter at Crowmarsh Pavilion). The club helps people of all ages and experience levels, meeting every Thursday at 7.30pm for an 8pm start (7.45pm competition evenings & online sessions). This month, Stephen Ball offers a virtual trip to Scotland via Zoom,

˜˜˜

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Building Society

DECIDED TO DIVORCE OR SEPARATE? WHAT NEXT? If you have made the difficult decision to divorce or separate from your partner, you may be wondering what to do next. There are a host of practical issues to consider, such as ‘what do we do about the children, our finances and the family home?’ At Slade Legal, our experienced family solicitors provide expert advice and support, tailored to your needs and circumstances - we are on your side when it can feel like nobody else is. We can help with all aspects of relationship breakdown, divorce, financial disputes and arrangements for you and your children. We can also help early on in a relationship if you are thinking about moving in together or getting married.

We are here for you, so please get in touch with our Family Law team today and find out how we can achieve a result that’s right for you.

www.slade-legal.co.uk 26 | FEBRUARY 2023

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY

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CARE

Adult Care d Winter 2023

Man’s best friend

“Pets just make us feel happier” – the simple reason why many elderly people benefit from the companionship of an animal e are a nation of pet lovers and for many this doesn’t change just because you have to enter a care home – man’s best friend can become even more important at this time of life. Ill health, loneliness, depression and anxietyrelated issues can all make later life harder but pets can help ease the elderly through and studies have shown that interacting with a dog, cat, rabbit, ducklings and even fish can kindle memories about past experiences and provide an opportunity to talk.

One charity which knows a thing or two about the benefits our furry and feathered friends can bring is Oxfordshirebased Pets As Therapy who say a PAT pet can improve a person’s mental health and overall wellbeing, adding that there’s often an increased connection with carers and family too, and those living with dementia can feel energised and elated, “It comes down to a very simple truth: pets just make us feel happier”. The charity was founded in 1983 by dog owner and volunteer Lesley Scott-Ordish and as it enters its 40th year, its vision remains unchanged to ensure everyone has access to the companionship of a pet regardless of their circumstances. In addition to its work in care homes, Pets As Therapy also extends the services to schools, hospitals and prisons. More than 4,000 volunteers go out and about with their animal friends extending the paw or claw of friendship to day care centres, residential homes and hospices as well as the other facilities. Pets As Therapy volunteers are pet owners who give up their time to help, if you would like to help find out more and apply

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stroking their fur to watching their antics can have a very calming and reassuring benefit. Animal visits to care homes can bring back fond memories for residents, with many remembering previous pets or happy times with friends and family when they come face to face with visiting animals.

d Continued...

at petsastherapy.org/information/forvolunteers One such home company which has benefited from the love and attention of a PAT dog is Brendoncare which has homes in and around Alton and Winchester in Hampshire and at Froxfield near Marlborough. Staff and residents there have seen first hand the positive effects of the joy and companionship that animals can bring. Rebecca Spicer, Volunteer and Activity Manager at Brendoncare, said: “Wellbeing is so much more than the word games and outings. Bringing animals to show our residents adds an element of home: a visiting PAT dog, social farm experience or even a pet animal for the home adds to this. “Animals bring love and comfort to our residents, and for them the nurturing feeling of caring or parenting something is familiar. In practice all residents have a natural instinct to stroke a dog, hold a chick or pet a horse. It’s those integrated moments that are engrained in our memories that give us that warm fuzzy ‘good’ feeling in our tummy.” Animals offer unconditional love and companionship. Sometimes, they provide a level of companionship that people can’t and many find interacting with pets such as simply 28 | FEBRUARY 2023

Brendoncare Alton recall a recent visit by a range of farm animals which for one resident was a special afternoon as he reminisced about the pig farm he used to run and remembered precious memories for him and his family – whilst stroking a pig! Animals give residents a break in routine and something they can look forward to. But that’s not all – research suggests that animals and their calming nature and affection can offer health benefits such as lowering people’s blood pressure and heart rate, increasing levels of oxytocin (the stress-reducing hormone) and decreasing the production of the stress hormone cortisol. Brendoncare say that while they love seeing their residents’ excitement when they get to hold a duckling or stroke a donkey, their lovely smiles aren’t the only benefit of petting these animals. Stroking an animal’s fur/feathers, hearing their unique sounds, holding them in their lap, feeding them and grooming them are all interactions which provide great sensory stimulation for residents and are particularly beneficial for people with dementia. Brendoncare Park Road in Winchester helped welcome some baby ducklings into the world and alongside the familiar caring and nurturing aspects that bring back familiar feelings, cuddling and petting the ducks also provided sensory stimulation. Find out more at brendoncare.org.uk In addition to the work of charities such as Pets As Therapy in care homes, many residential homes welcome residents to bring their much-loved pets with them with they move in recognising the benefits to older people – improving mental wellbeing, decreased dementia rates, a sense of purpose and fun.

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Your Life Long Partner At Slade Legal, we are always happy to support you from adulthood to your twilight years

ssistance from the Bank of Mum and Dad is often welcome by couples stepping on the first rung of the property ladder. As you embark on this new adventure, we can ensure that your parent’s money is returned to them if the property is sold (e.g. if your relationship with your partner sadly breaks down). Once you have settled into your new home, it is important to remember that it is likely to be your most valuable asset. Therefore, we would advise that you make a Will so that your home is inherited by your loved ones upon your death. If you and your partner start a family, we will happily revisit your Will to consider your children, and any children from a previous relationship, in order to reflect your changing circumstances.

As you become more established, you may decide to purchase an additional investment property. We will be on hand to advise how to tax efficiently manage the rent if you and your partner fall into different tax brackets. Whilst you are fit and well, we can also prepare documents to enable your family to act for you if you lose your mental faculties. Finally, in the sad event that either your parent, partner or you pass away, we will offer support in settling any inheritance tax, closing bank accounts and distributing assets. It will be our pleasure to assist you through the highs and lows of life. Contact us at: 01235 521920 or [email protected]

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WILLS, TRUSTS AND PROBATE Our team of specialist lawyers pride themselves on high standards and are committed to providing a thorough, professional service in preparation of wills, dealing with estate planning, probate and administration and providing comprehensive trust advice. Everyone’s situation is unique, so whether you are a new parent, a home-owner, a business owner or you have significant financial assets, you can rest assured that the Private Client team at Slade Legal will provide you with the expert advice you need. Slade Legal will be by your side every step of the way, answering your questions and providing you with a personalised service.

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R&A | 31

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Planning for the future

Get your financial affairs in order with a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney any of us have made New Year’s resolutions and yours may include putting your affairs in order. This means thinking of the future by putting Lasting Powers of Attorney and Wills in place and also considering Inheritance Tax planning. Lasting Powers of Attorney are documents which allow you to appoint attorneys to help you with your property and financial and health and welfare affairs. You may choose your spouse, partner, children or trusted friend. If you have an Enduring Power of Attorney, it may still be possible to use it although it only covers Property & Financial matters. Lasting Powers of Attorney can be registered now and £ £ £ £

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A day in the life… Nurse turned care home manager Susie Green shares her memories of life as a care home manager in A Most Precious Gift it terribly and felt guilty for ending my career so I thought it would help to write my tale.

wanted to give people a little peep at what happens through the front door of a care home” says Susie Green of her new book A Most Precious Gift. Susie invites us to walk through the doors of a care home with her as our guide, as the care home manager, home to the elderly, vulnerable adults and for many their final home. Share some of the tales she tells of horror and heartbreak but also many that will make you laugh and smile alongside many you will find unbelievable. Pigeons, relatives, a ‘lady of the night’ turned carer, incontinence pads and emotional farewells all form part of daily life in a care home. Susie started her nurse training in 1978, qualifying in the early 1980s. She has worked on general wards, as a GP nurse and a school nurse. She spent the last six years of her career as a care home manager, turning struggling homes around. “I knew I had stories and tales that happened in my time as a care home manager that just had to be written down,” she explains. “Nursing is a career that is so hard to walk away from, I missed 34 | FEBRUARY 2023

“My inspiration came from the care home staff, service users, families, owners and multidisciplinary teams and social services I worked with. Some characters I will never forget. “I wanted people to understand the life and responsibilities in the role of a registered care home manager. I wanted to give people a little peep at what happens through the front door of a care home.” A Most Precious Gift is a token of thanks to all staff who work in care homes and for those who showed their commitment and empathy working through the Covid pandemic. She adds: “This little book will touch hearts and give an understanding of what it means to work in care homes, the people we meet and those we care for, and those we work with.” Susie lives in a 17th century cottage in Oxfordshire with her husband, two whippets Albert and Annabelle and a very large British Shorthair cat called Eric and as she says in the author’s note for her book: “You will smile, be touched, be horrified and perhaps shed some tears.”  A Most Precious Gift is published by The Book Guild, ISBN 9781915352361, and is available now for £7.99.

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20 32 12

27

Wantage

36

DIDCOT

2 38 13 26

29

17 21

24 25

16

Newbury 18 5

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View our interactive online map at . ro t. u

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33 Reading 22 34

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Marlow

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Guildford

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The Homecare People, RG40 1XP, 0118 997 7499

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Countywide Caring, OX10 8HS, 01865 858895

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Blandy & Blandy Solicitors, RG9 2LJ, 01491 572323

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Mary Hare Hearing Centre, RG14 1AY, 01635 523343

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Royal Star & Garter, HP13 5GG, 01494 927555

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Help in Hearing Henley RG9 2AR, 01491 577555

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The Grange Care Home, RG8 9EA, 01491 872853

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Elmbrook Court, OX12 7BY, 0300 303 5445

28. Right at Home Reading & Wokingham District, RG10 9TU, 0118 207 0600 29. The Old Vicarage Care Home -FOTE, OX10 9JB, 0203 8564 211 30. Lightfoots Solicitors, HP27 0AX, 01844 397020 31.

Henley Manor – Hallmark Care Homes, RG9 4HD, 01491 418000

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33. Redland Healthcare, RG30 1AP, 0118 956 0800 34. Maitland House AbbeyField, RG1 6NL, 01252 979111 35. Alexander Grange Care Home, RG41 2RU, 0118 427 0522 36. Blue Angel Care Ltd, OX11 0QG, 01235 242432 37.

Bellevie Care, OX14 1PL, 01235 355570

38. Style Acre, OX10 8BA, 01491 838760 39. Clark Care Services, RG4 9AQ, 07725 972580 40. Bluebird Care Oxford, OX4 6BZ, 01865 704036 41.

Bluebird Care South Oxfordshire, OX4 6BZ, 01491 225034

42. Rosebank Care Home, OX18 2JR, 01993 850308 43. Churchfields Care Home, OX29 4BN, 01865 881440 44. Nina Foot Care, Marlow, 07807136541 (Not shown on map)

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R&A | 37

SPOTLIG HT

á ...Continued from page 24.

the 9th features a popular members’ evening You Are The Judge, then on the 16th it's the Action competition. On 23rd join JP Stones online for Storytelling For Photographers. Visit wallingfordphoto.club Well done to the Winter Recitals Wallingford team who continue to entertain music-lovers. Oboist Ewan Millar, winner of the Woodwind Final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2020, will perform on Saturday, 11th, alongside Guylaine Eckersley on bassoon and Anita D’Attellis on piano. On Saturday 25th, the Bring On The Youth! concert will star soprano Elenor Vockins and violin virtuoso Tara Spencer, as well as Music Scholars from Queen Anne’s School. The final concert, Le Grand Tango, takes place on Saturday 4th March, with Argentinian cellist Leandro Silvera as well as amazing Anita. All are at St Mary’s, Wallingford, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets £15 (£5 for under-19s) with proceeds to Sue Ryder and St Mary’s. Visit anitapiano.com/wrw23

˜˜˜

Wallingford & District Art Club will hold an AGM on Tuesday, 21st February, followed by an illustrated talk by Robert Kidner on Art & The Night. This will be an opportunity to meet fellow art enthusiasts and maybe decide to join this friendly club. There's also an

˜˜˜

L CE Y LL ONA PLA U F ATI LS IN O ER TOC WINDOWS OP RO

upcoming Saturday workshop in March on painting landscapes in oil or acrylic, tutored by guest artist Paul Oakley. Numbers are limited, so please email admin@ wallingfordartclub.org.uk. For more highlights in the coming year visit wallingfordartclub.org.uk ˜˜˜ Mockbeggars Hall in Blewbury is the atmospheric setting where jazz guitarist Hugh Turner and partner Izabela Borzymowska will dazzle. With a limit of 30 people, it’s an incredible opportunity to see world-class jazz artists up close and the venue has a grand piano. The next highlight is on Saturday, 25th February, at 7.30pm, enjoy Nikki Iles on piano, Karen Sharp on tenor saxophone, Dave Green on acoustic bass, Steve Brown on drums. It’s £25-£30 a ticket and BYOB (glasses provided) and the concert will run 8-10.15pm (approx). On 25th March pianist Joanna Eden will star with Hugh Turner on guitar & Raph Mizraki on acoustic bass. Email [email protected]

On Monday, 6th February, Hanney Gardening Club will welcome garden designer and broadcaster Chris Beardshaw to Hanney War Memorial Hall. Chris will talk about restoring 15 acres of garden at Boveridge House in Dorset to their former glory. Doors will open

˜˜˜

d...Continued on page 44.

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RECI P E

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Ingredients: • Glug of olive or vegetable oil • One large butternut squash, topped, tailed, cut into quarters and seeds removed • ½ cup (100g) couscous • ½ cup (120ml) boiling water • 100g feta cheese • Juice of one lemon • Two heaped tbsp pesto • Eight cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • Olive oil, for roasting Prep: 10 minutes

Here’s a taste of Suzanne Mulholland’s The Batch Lady: Cooking on a Budget, out now, published by HarperCollins

Cooking: 70 minutes Serves: Four

Ä Roast butternut squash with a couscous crust oasting butternut squash in this way brings out its natural sweetness and delicious earthy flavours. Bulked up with fluffy couscous this is substantial enough as a main meal, but would also work as a side dish or a dinner party starter

Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 180˚C/350˚F/gas mark 4. Add a glug of oil to a lipped baking sheet.Place in the oven to warm. 2 Once the oil is hot, add the butternut to the tray, turning to coat in the oil as you do. Bake for 40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the squash is golden and just tender. 3 Transfer the couscous to a large bowl and pour over half a cup (120ml) of boiling water. Cover and set aside for five minutes, then fluff the couscous up with a fork. 4 Crumble the feta into the bowl, then add the 42 | FEBRUARY 2023

lemon juice, pesto, tomatoes, salt and pepper. Stir to combine. If you’re cooking to eat now... Spoon the couscous mix over the roasted squash and return to the oven for another 30 minutes. Divide the wedges between plates and serve. Zhuzh it up with a good drizzle of balsamic glaze. If you’re making ahead to freeze... Set the squash and couscous aside until cooled to room temperature, then transfer the squash wedges to a large freezer bag and the couscous to a smaller bag. Seal the couscous bag and then place inside the bag with the squash before sealing. Label and freeze flat for up to three months. Then... Remove from the freezer and defrost in the fridge, ideally overnight. Once defrosted lay the squash on a foil-lined baking sheet and spoon over the couscous. Transfer to an oven preheated to 180˚C/350˚F/gas mark 4 and bake for 30 minutes, until piping hot all the way through. Serve as above.

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SPOTLIG HT

á ...Continued from page 38.

at 7pm for the 7.30pm talk. This highlight is free for members, guests welcome for £10pp. Please email Bill Watkin on [email protected] You're invited to Come & Sing Messiah in Wantage on Sunday, 12th February, at Wantage Parish Church of SS Peter and Paul. Register for this highly enjoyable annual event at 2pm with rehearsal at 2.30pm, the concert at 3pm followed by tea, wine and cakes at 5.30pm. Singers £15 (under-18s £10), audience £10, under-14s free. Four professional soloists will lead the fun, an organist, and as usual Sebastian Thomson will conduct. For further info and for enrolment, please email Julie Batten at [email protected] ˜˜˜

˜˜˜ On Wednesday, 22nd February, Grove Garden & Local History Club will host a talk, The Oxford of Inspector Morse, by Alistair Lack, at 8pm at Grove Village Hall. £2.50 for members, £5 for non-members. Search online for ggalhc, pick up a schedule from Wantage or Grove libraries or see the club on Facebook. ˜˜˜ On Wednesday, 8th February Stephen Wass will explore Cropredy – Developing The Archaeology Of A Village as the guest of Stanford in the Vale History

Society. On 8th March, Stephen Barker will examine Six Warrior Women of the English Civil War 1642-1651. All talks start at 7.30pm in the large SITV village hall. For more details email [email protected] ˜˜˜ Citizens Advice is concerned that people in need are not taking advantage of cheap broadband and mobile schemes. “Social tariffs” or “essential broadband” are discounted deals intended for those on benefits. Visit citizensadvice.org.uk or call 0808 278 7907. Or visit gov.uk and search for “cheaper broadband” or ofcom.org.uk (search “social tariffs”). ˜˜˜ PROBUS is an organisation for retired professional and business people. The South Oxfordshire group meet on the first Wednesday of each month at the Shillingford Bridge Hotel for a drink, lunch and to hear an interesting speaker. They also organise social events for members and their partners, which include theatre trips, visits to museums, sporting events and industrial heritage. Each Christmas they treat themselves to an excellent subsidised lunch. If you are recently retired, new to the area or simply interested in joining, please email the chairman, John Edwards, on [email protected]

Sending lots of love for February & take care, LN

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R&A | 45

S TAR Q&A

Queen

party

Best-selling author Kate Mosse OBE shares her thoughts ahead of her Warrior Queens & Quiet Revolutionaries tour at a theatre near you

Hello Kate! How are you? “Very well, thank you! I’ve just become a grandmother, so loving everything about that.” Q. Can you tell us a little about any of your favourite trailblazing women? “There are so many from every corner of the world, but I love the extraordinary footballer, Lily Parr, who scored more than 1,000 goals in her professional career in the early 1900s, and also the legendary 18th century pirates, Anne Bonny and Mary Reid, who were fierce and uncompromising - my next novel, The Ghost Ship, is partly inspired by their story.” Q. What was your favourite book as a child? “So many, but certainly The katemosse. Golden Hamster, a beautiful story about being true to who you are. My beloved, co.uk/events and much missed Dad, used to read it to me at bedtime, and I still have that 1960s edition. I also loved The Little House on the Prairie books by Laura Ingalls Wilder.” Q. And now – who’s your favourite author? “I try to avoid ever answering this question – too many of my friends are writers – but, going back in time, Emily Bronte, Adrienne Rich, Rider 46 | FEBRUARY 2023

Haggard and Agatha Christie would be top of the list.”

Q. Do you enjoy touring? “I’m excited and nervous – what if nobody comes or my voice gives out – and it’s quite a challenge starting a new career as a performer at the age of 61! On the other hand, you have to keep having new challenges and pushing yourself. The tour is about starting a conversation, having a great night out in the theatre, and putting some incredible women back in to the history books.” Q. Can you tell us a bit about your first impressions of Carcasonne and how you fell in love with it, changing the course of your life? “We first bought a tiny house in the shadow of the medieval city walls of Carcassonne back in 1989 and, from the moment I first saw the extraordinary ‘crown of stone’ sitting on the hill above the river Aude, 52 towers and turrets, two rings of defensive walls, everything stepped in history, I fell in love. I didn’t intend to write about Carcassonne but, little by little as I read history about Languedoc and learnt about the people who had lived there in the 13th century, the ‘whispering in the landscape’ started… Those became my novel, Labyrinth, and since then, almost all of my fiction has been a kind of love letter to this beautiful corner of France.””

Q. What is your first memory of music? “My fabulous Ma had an LP of Nancy Sinatra’s Swinging Safari. I adored dancing along with her.” Q. Who would be your dream dinner party guests? “The composer Ethel Smyth; the extraordinary 13th century Mongolian wrester princess, Khutulan; Pauli Murray, one of the ‘freedom riders’ along with Rosa Parks; Josephine Cochrane who, in 1893, invented the dishwasher (yes, really!); perhaps Beatrix Potter and of course, my own great-grandmother, Lily Watson...” Q. What advice would you have for any aspiring writers? “Do it! A little writing every day, just so you start to get your muscles used to the process, that’s how a novel or biography takes shape. Don’t worry about how good it is, or quite where it’s going, just get some words down. Soon you’ll have a sentence, then a paragraph then, before you know it, a chapter.”

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07740 103483 01235 810808 Or Email [email protected]

J+J SERVICES Fencing, patios, pathways, new drives, block paving, gravel, new lawns, shed re-felting, high pressure jet washing, mini digger hire (with operator), land clearance and a whole lot more! For more info plus free quotes Tel: 01235 519245 mob 07864833290 or e-mail [email protected] 48 | FEBRUARY 2023

CDR ELECTRICAL SERVICES NAPIT REGISTERED 25 years’ experience. All electrical work undertaken. Free estimates, Emergency call-outs available. www.cdrelectricalservices.co.uk 07771 592445 / 01235 530234

C L A SSI F I E D

ASK

ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS

Call Alan Knight

07792 230789

[email protected]

• Small jobs to full bespoke rewires • Fuseboard/Consumer Unit upgrades • LED lighting - Downlights, Outside Lights, Striplights, Feature lights etc • Security - CCTV, Motion Detector Lighting etc • Electrical Installation Condition Reports for Landlords and Homebuyers

ADAM DIDCOT PLUMBER Small and emergency work. Any plumbing replace or repair. Boiler installations, bathroom installations. Fully insured. Free estimates. Most parts in stock. Over 20 years’ experience. If you don’t ask you don’t get. We can beat most quotations. Please call or text Adam on 01235 812971 mob 07763 221257 or Email: [email protected] LB PLUMBING Toilets, taps, showers, immersions, leaks, all general repairs. Free estimates. Fully insured. No callout charge. Call Lee 01491 834484 mob 07981642688

• EV Chargers (City and Guilds Qualified) • Smart Electrical Devices

A & J SERVICES British Gas trained. Radiators, valves, toilets, taps, outside taps, leaks. Fully insured. Free callouts and estimates. Call Nick on 01865 247186 or mob 07368 869412 CORD ELECTRICAL Colin Byrne, Son and Daughter. Over 30 years in the trade. No job too small. Fully registered with N.A.P.I.T 01235 814428 / 07972 223369 or [email protected]

PETER the HEATER LTD KEEPING OXFORDSHIRE WARM

Working with Progas Heating and Plumbing Ltd

Heating and plumbing installations and repairs | Boiler service and replacement | Fair pricing

CALL: 07866 573362

Email: [email protected] • www.safeswitchelec.co.uk Family run business with over 30 years experience

Free estimates Fast Friendly service

no. 96530

SPECIALISTS

01235 527716 07525 449180 FIND us on

Boilers Installed/Serviced/Repaired Landlord Certificates Power Flushing All Plumbing Work Undertaken

TWITTER

T. 01235 537389 M. 07818425018 E. [email protected] W. www.kwc-heating.co.uk

8112 REGISTER

WHITEHORSE INSTALLATIONS Complete Bathroom/ Kitchen Installations, General Plumbing, Wall/Floor Tiling. No call out charge. Free Quotations. Fully Insured Call Shaun 01235 412016, 07878757566 or [email protected] www.whitehorseinstallations.co.uk

PAINTING & DECORATING LES THE PAINTER Interior/exterior and commercial/ domestic fully insured best prices guaranteed. Tel 07971973030 [email protected] PAUL DALLIMORE PAINTING & DECORATING Quality interior & exterior decorating. Free quotations. Friendly reliable service. Call Paul 01235 200016, mob 07952293577 or [email protected] R&A | 49

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Chris Dawson & Son Painting, Decorating and Plastering

CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST Abbey Mobile Physio providing in-home services £35 for 30 minutes. Call Ben on 07474 328350 www.abbeymobilephysio.co.uk

Property Maintenance

Professional service using quality materials Fully insured - endorsements available

For friendly advice and a FREE quote Phone 01235 817957 Mobile 0774 8601471 email: [email protected] CHILDS CONTRACTS Painting & Decorating Interior/ Exterior - Domestic/Commercial Artexing/Coving – Insurance Quotations/Estimates. A friendly reliable service/ References available Free quotations – Contact Glenn or Annette on 01235 527000 or 07821791186 email: [email protected]

TAYSON

Ear Examination

with self-visual otoscope

Wax Removal Irrigation & Microsuction Hearing Tests Su Chantry Tel: 01235 606080 (leave a message for a call back) For more info: suchantry.com/personal-health-solutions Wantage Clinic OX12

AM First Aid Training

Painting, Decorating & Property Maintenance

• Interior & Exterior work carried out to the highest standards • Professional & trustworthy staff • Domestic & Commercial FREE QUOTATIONS AND ADVICE

Tel: 01865 820792 | Mobile: 07872 962588 Email: [email protected] | www.tayson.co.uk

MARK HARRISON QUALITY PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES Honest, Friendly and Reliable. Free Quotes, mobile 07879450388

Abingdon Handyman Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance / Handyman Services Plumbing

Darren Hudson Home Services

Abingdon 559558 - Mobile 07985 241510 www.ablngdonhandyman.weebly.com HEALTH & BEAUTY CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS Suzy Willis & Associates MCSP HCPC AACP clinic / home visits. Please call Drayton 01235 531269 for an appointment 50 | FEBRUARY 2023

Andy Morley

07528 529660

amfi[email protected]

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758 GENERAL SERVICES WATER SOFTENER OWNER? Call Softener Surgeons for sales, service and repair. Over 25 years industry experience. Drinking water systems and salt also supplied. Tablet and Block salt available. Call 07939 204455 CARPET / UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Low moisture specialists. Competitive rates. Trading Standards approved. GRIMEBUSTERS (01865) 726983 / (01235) 555533 / (01993) 868924 P.M WILLOUGHBY PROPERTY & GARDEN MAINTENANCE Small extensions, external and internal work all aspects of work undertaken. Tel: 01235 550204 mob 07970723407.

C L A SSI F I E D

OAKWOOD CARPENTRY Fitted kitchens & bedrooms, bathrooms, joinery, flooring, doors, locks, decorating, plumbing & all general maintenance. Full Refurbishment & Renovation Specialists. Experienced & reliable. Free quotations. Local rates 07833 636656 or visit www.oakwoodcarpentry.co.uk [email protected]

www.whitehorseovencleaning.co.uk MA BARNES Carpentry, Kitchens, Tiling, Bathrooms, Plumbing, Painting And Decorating. Contact Martin on: 07789203876 or 01865 820188 LOCKSMITH SERVICE Door & window locks fitted, repaired & opened. UPVC door locks repaired & replaced. Checkatrade member. Which? Trusted Trader. Free quotes. Over 35 years of experience. For reliable service call Richard Homden on 07710 409216 www.acgservices.co.uk ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS Design/Planning/ Building Regulations - Extensions, Garage/Loft Conversions, Garden Buildings, New Builds. FREE Initial Site Consultation. Tel: 01865 244178 www.otprojects.co.uk

Domestic Appliance Services

Repairs and Servicing to all Major Brands of Domestic Appliances Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Dishwashers, Cookers, Ovens, Hobs, Cooker Hoods, NOT Refrigeration Fast and friendly service

Phone: 01235 426234 Mobile: 07555 124355

Email: [email protected]

The Window D ctor CARE & REPAIR FOR ALL YOUR UPVC & ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR PROBLEMS • Replacement of broken down sealed units - misting up inside glass • Adjust front & back doors that do not shut • New handles, hinges and door locks • Replacement of patio door wheels • New security handles with keys • New door panels and cat fl aps • New Georgian style or leaded style sealed units • All insurance work • Burglary damage • Servicing PLUS INSTALLATIONS OF NEW UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS Call us for a FREE Survey and Quotation,

No call out charge Friendly Family Established Business

Cowling & Co.

Mob: 07860 435742 Tel: 01865 891776

email: [email protected]

www.windowdoctor.co.uk

ANDREW ALDER ASSOCIATES LIMITED Building design & planning services, all Local Authority Approvals obtained. Health & Safety Consultancy services also available. Tel: 01235 763742 Mob: 07850064343 Email: [email protected] R&A | 51

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BLOCKED DRAINS? Sewers, sinks, toilets, baths unblocked. Emergency plumbing. Call GB DRAINAGE 07850 624997

Affordable Building Plans

Creative Planning Drawings Structural Calculations Building Control Compliance Estimating & Project Management Free initial site visit Boyes Building & Dev. Ltd Est 1995

07711 943135 [email protected] OXPRO WINDOW AND CARPET CLEANING, Professional Service, NCCA qualified. Contact on 07889413128, [email protected], www.oxprocarpetcleaning.co.uk N EE S T V A SO N

TIME TO CLEAN YOUR OVEN? LET US DO THE JOB YOU HATE

Covid Vaccinated AFTER

BEFORE

WANTED DO YOU HAVE A CLASSIC CAR / VAN / TRUCK FOR SALE? Looking to enlarge my collection of classic cars, any make or condition considered Call Ian on 07748158325 or email me at [email protected]

IT & TELECOMS

PC Repairs Ovens l Grills l Extractors l

Filters l BBQs l Microwaves l

Hobs l Ranges l AGAs l

I’m simply delighted at how sparkly clean my oven and hob look now! It really does look like the cooker is brand new again!

Call Helen or go online today for your FREE quote!

07542 833120 THE RUBBISH VAN The Simple, Quick, Low-cost way to clear all your Bulky/Household/Garden Waste. Enquiries welcome 7 days a week. Phone Mark 01235 511846 or 07770 862413. (Licensed Waste Carrier) DRESSMAKER Friendly one to one service. Making garments, day, evening, Bridal and prom. Alterations, Soft furnishings. No job too small. Please call Cynthia 01235 559151 / 07904196068 / 07500429379 52 | FEBRUARY 2023

Computer Specialist Virus Removal Email problems Internet Recovery Wireless Set-up

No Fix! No Fee! Anything PC That's Me. Now Includes AppleMacs. Covid Vaccinated.

Bitcoin consultan cy & advice available

Call Mark 07985 149612 [email protected] LOCAL EX BT / OPENREACH TELEPHONE & BROADBAND ENGINEER FROM £35. 25 Years’ Experience, phone line faults, extensions and sockets, successful wireless networking in all types of properties, broadband speed issues resolved, master telephone sockets, all materials are BT approved, half the cost of all leading service providers, 7 days a week. Rapid Service. Tel: 01189 845184 mobile 07787 934883 [email protected] ABINGDON PC SERVICES Home PC Repairs, Virus removal. Free Quotations, £35 Call out. 07928514822

C L A SSI F I E D

INTERIOR DESIGN & UPHOLSTERY

REMOVALS & STORAGE Do you need a man with a van?

CURTAINS BY KAREN Made to measure Curtains/Roman Blinds. You supply the fabric, I do the making! Free estimates and measuring. Tel: 01235 200832

We are a local Abingdon business! Call/Text Jason on Mobile:

07757 256533

or check out our website! www.manwithavanoxford.co.uk

SELF STORAGE – DORCHESTER ON THAMES AND STEVENTON. Secure units for household, and small business, containerised units, DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE DIRECT TO UNIT DOORS, 160sq ft/1280 cu ft, own key, 24/7 access with electronic entry and cctv. open storage for caravan/trailer parking. Small fenced areas suitable for small builders or larger item storage. (Fenced open area + 20 Ft container) we also buy and sell and deliver shipping containers and cabins. www.qselfstore.co.uk Tel: 01235 847164 anytime.

WILL WRITERS & LEGAL NEW YEARS RESOLUTION! GET YOUR LATER LIFE DUCKS IN A ROW NOW! BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! WILLS, POWERS OF ATTORNEY, TRUSTS, EQUITY RELEASE & PROBATE AT HARD TO BEAT PRICES. CALL LIONHEART TODAY FOR A NO OBLIGATION DISCUSSION. 01993 220281 - 07769 730616

book your

lineage advertising online

d www.roundandabout.co.uk/classified-lineage

HOME MAINTENANCE

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Are you looking for a new friendly class to join in 2023? Creative dance classes in Abingdon for older people wanting to dance and socialise together. TUESDAYS 10.00-11.00AM - £4.50/£5 per class Trinity Church Hall, Conduit Rd, Abingdon OX14 1DB FOLLOWED BY REFRESHMENTS For more details please contact: Caroline 07815 120727 www.dance-creative.co.uk

BUILDINGS SECTIONAL EX-DISPLAY SHEDS Stables/field shelters, summer houses, garden rooms, offices, workshops and agricultural 01935 891195 www.customtimberbuildingsltd.co.uk

Do you have a Leaky Roof? • Flat Roofs • Roofing Maintenance • New Roofs • Fascias & Guttering • De-Mossing • Chimney Stack repairs Free Quotations Contact: 01235 612576 or 07553 911 258 Visit: www.everlastroofingservices.co.uk quote@everlastroofingservices.co.uk R&A | 53

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ODD JOB: HOME AND GARDEN MAINTENANCE. No job too small. Call Henry on 07737 517459.

D.E.R. LONG & SON

Builders & Decorators - Est 1972 18 Sandleigh Road, Dry Sandford nr Abingdon OX13 6DP Based Locally to Abingdon and Oxford

Cox's Building Services

• GROUNDWORKS • EXTENSIONS • ROOFING • BRICKWORK • PLASTERING AND RENDERING • CARPENTRY • INTERNAL & EXTERNAL DECORATING • ALL ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Brickwork, Extensions, Walls, Patio's, Fencing, Driveways, General Building, Landscaping, Garage Conversions, Digger Hire.

ALL ENQUIRIES WELCOME FREE CONSULTATION GIVEN

Free quotations

Tel: 01865 739657 or 01865 327308 Mob: 07860 866329 or 07715 377894 E-Mail: [email protected]

01865 326919 07787 515050

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01491 822758

[email protected]

LONGPINE ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Family team est. 2006 >Sympathetic to grade listed and older properties >Roof, slate & tile repairs >Flat roofs >Chimney> Brick & stone pointing >Fascia, soffit and guttering >FOC written quotations [email protected] or Tel: 01491 652494

ABINGDON CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION All aspects of precision carpentry. Internal/external. Our services include everything from the smallest of jobs like fitting skirting, a front door lock, to repairing anything that is broken. Free quotations. Testimonials available. Simon Mullord. 07717 277955 www.abingdoncarpentry. com [email protected]

A M Property Maintenance

Professional, Experienced and Reliable. Services include but not limited to: • General Building Works • Home Maintenance • Slabbing/Paving/Patios • Gardening Maintenance • Painting & Home Decoration Call Adie for no obligation Free Quotations: 07468116696 • 07557795957 • 01235 416988 Email: [email protected]

METAL GATES AND RAILINGS MADE TO MEASURE, Repairs and restoration to existing www.gbgatesrailings.co.uk M: 07770 761599 T: 01235 533655 EDT PLASTERING AND HOME IMPROVEMENTS Friendly and reliable all work carried out to the highest standard. Please contact: 07917 680458 Email: [email protected] 54 | FEBRUARY 2023

MJE PLASTERING & TILING All aspects of plastering including K rendering specialist, damp proof plastering and all tiling services. Established 27 years. Please call Mark 07808 062265 / 01235 848183

FIND us on

instagram

d@roundandaboutmag

PETS CORNER Off-lead fun with your dog(s) Exclusive use of equipped and scenic secure dog field in South Oxfordshire

 Manor Farm, Drayton St Leonard OX10 7BE  www.paws-paddock.co.uk

R&A | 55

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is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & 56Better | FEBRUARY 2023 Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398