The Image in Stratford March 2011

your free local magazine

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

M A R C H 2 0 1 1I S S U E 1 0

The Shakespeare Hospice check out...WEDDINGS featureHEALTH & FITNESSHANDY ANDYFOOD for thought

Check out our meal deals!

WINa meal for four at Grant’s of Sheep Street

New Feature Walkslim diary

How you can help support

at our Charity event with De Montfort Country Dining

QUIZ

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

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

JJ

Or email: [email protected]

Call JJ on07779 222301

Target your market with The Image The Image offers a great choice of adverts available to fit the budgets of any size business starting from less than £30 per month!

Computing page03

Gardener’sCorner page04

Giveadogahome page07

Weddingsfeature page08

HandyAndy page10

UsefulNumbers page15

Health&Wellbeing page18

FoodandDrink page25

Quiz page28

Thismonth’sprizeisafantasticmealfor4withacomplementarybottleofwinecourtesyofGrantsofSheepStreet.Toenterallyouneedtodoisreadthroughthemagazineandthencompletethecrosswordonpage28ande-mailusatquiz@theimage-stratford.co.ukwiththeanswertotheanagram–sogetquizzing!

Onceagainwehavehadagreatresponsetothemagazineandwewouldliketothankyouallforyourfeedback.Pleasedon’tforgettoletusknowofanylocaleventsthataretakingplace,sowecanincludetheminthemagazine.

CongratulationstoFebruary’sprizewinnerMrsNicolaLovellwhohaswonaPhotoshootanda10x8inchprint,fromlocalphotographerLindaScannell,andthe2runnersup,JacquiJay,andMaryClarkewhohaveeachwona£50voucherfromLindaScannellPhotography.

Thismonthonpage24youwillseethatinconjunctionwithDeMontfortCountryDiningweatTheImageMagazinewillbeholdingaCharityDinnerandTombolaonSaturday23rdAprilinaidofTheShakespeareHospice.£10fromeachticketsoldwillbedonatedtothehospice,plusmoneyraisedfromthetombola.Ticketsarelimited.Formoreinformationseepage24.

Sowhynotputyourfeetupandenjoyreadingyourlocalmagazine,supportinglocalbusinessandthecommunity.

Bestwishes

JJ

Contents:

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

If you know of any local events happening in the area, please email [email protected]

All adverts in this magazine are published in good faith. The Image in Stratford does not accept responsibility for their accuracy or for claims made by advertisers that are false or incorrect.

Welcome to the March edition

JJ

This month’s Hot Offers:

Lookoutforthe‘HotOffer’badgetoseethedealsyoucangetwiththeseadverts:

Crossroads – page 09

Via Cracow – page 26

Red Lion – page 29

Simla – page 29

HOT OFFER!

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

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G&R Computers6 The MinoriesHenley Street

Stratford Upon AvonCV37 6NF

www.grcomputers.com

Microsoft WindoWs certified Partner

• New computer service centre open

• Qualified Technicians

• Business contracts available

The ImageComputers

Upgrading your graphics card.

The current popular PC games have shown us that the video card has now become the most important component in a gaming computer. The CPU and the video card used to be of equal importance in the past, but games have become increasingly dependent on video cards as developers have been increasing gaming graphics levels.

In recent games like Call of Duty 2, F.E.A.R., and Quake 4, a strong video card improves game performance and image quality much more than a strong CPU does. Newer games also default down to uglier graphics if the game detects an older card. And some games remove support for older cards altogether. When a highly anticipated game like Battlefield 2 no longer supports GeForce 4 level or older cards, it’s time to consider starting on that long-overdue upgrade.

Do I have a PCI or AGP Graphic card?

Before you run off to buy that graphics upgrade, you have to find out if your current system will be able to handle a new video card. Video card requirements have changed over the years, and older PC systems might not have the necessary hardware to be compatible with the latest video cards.

Take a look at your system motherboard to see if it has an AGP or PCI Express card slot (it will be the topmost expansion slot on the motherboard--your monitor should be connected to the card currently sitting there). Older systems have AGP card slots, but more recent systems (made in the past two years) have PCI Express card slots.

If your system has a PCI Express slot, you’re in luck. All the latest video cards use the PCI Express form factor. Your upgrade options will be much more limited if you find an AGP slot staring back at you. All the best cards come out in PCI Express first, followed months later by scaled-back AGP versions, if they’re made at all. Consider upgrading to a PCI Express motherboard if you want to get the most powerful video card options. If your system

is more than 5 years old, you might have an ancient PCI slot for graphics. In this case, the best thing to do would be to put that old system in the bin and upgrade to a completely new system.

How much power do I need?

After determining what kind of card slot and how much space you have for it, you’ll need to find out the power rating on your system power supply. Today’s performance video cards require lots of power, and some power supplies might not have the wattage to support a system loaded with extra drives, a fast processor, and a new power-hungry video card. If you’re lucky, the power supply will have its maximum wattage listed on the back, visible from outside the

Otherwise you’ll have to take it to a reputable computer shop, they should be able to see what you have and see if you need a new power supply to run your new card. The bare-minimum wattage you’re looking for is 400W, but you’ll be able to get a more powerful card with a 450W or 500W power supply, and you’ll need 600W or more for a dual-card setup. Check the power supply requirements printed on the outside of the video card box to make sure your system can support the card.

Do I need more memory?

Adding RAM is often the most cost-effective upgrade you can make to speed up a sluggish computer. PCs that had more than enough RAM when they were new often have trouble keeping up with the demands of the latest programs after a few years. New operating systems almost always call for more memory, too. When a computer runs short of RAM, it’s forced to swap the overflow data on and off of the hard drive, which can significantly slow performance.

RAM comes in many flavors, including DDR, DDR2, and DDR3. Newer technologies offer faster performance, but most motherboards accept only one type of RAM. Check your PC’s manual or a local PC dealer/repair shop to find out what type of RAM modules you need and how they have to be installed.

Barney Meredith

G & R Computers, 6 The Minories Henley Street Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6NF

01789 299901

[email protected]

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Here comes summer event

Weekend 26th/27th March to celebrate clocks moving forward - soon be summer. New 2011 Spas unveiled, Refreshments, Spring Fever Sale weekend, FREE Foot massage with every fish pedicure, plus loads more offers in store.

Therapy of the Sole is open 7 days a week and details can be found on Therapy of the Sole website www.therapyofthesole.co.uk or by telephoning 01386 831446.

Therapy of the Sole - a fishy businessAt Complete Spas

Spring is here!....finally the garden comes back to life after a long winter. Gardener’s Corner

Lucy BravingtonDon’t get too comfortable though, the weather is still changeable... mild sunshine one day and hard frost the next. Spring-flowering bulbs really come into their own at this time of year with forsythias being another must-have for spring with their stunning show of bright yellow flowers towards the end of the month. With the clocks going forward later in the month why not make the most of the longer days in the garden?

★Iris‘KatherineHodgkin’

★Prunussargentii

★Forsythiaxintermedia

★ Primula Gold-laced Group

★ Crocus vernus ‘Pickwick’

★Chaenomelesxsuperba ‘KnapHillScarlet’

★Muscari armeniacum

Star Plants for March

I will be covering a project of mine in one of the next issues...so keep an eye on Gardeners Corner to see the process of garden concept through to construction. Please contact me on 07855 940402 with any garden related query and view my newly updated website at www.lucybravington.com

Keep on top of weeds as soon as they start to appear. Use a hoe on a dry, sunny day to lift them from the soil so that they can be left on the surface to shrivel in the warmth of the sun.

Mulch bare soil, following weeding. Mulch retains moisture in the soil, suppresses weeds and looks smart too. Remember though...never put mulch on dry soil. If it is dry, water it first, a layer of mulch is as good at keeping water out as well as retaining it!

Keep an eye on pests appearing in your garden. If you pick or rub pests off as soon as they appear, or prune out badly infested shoots, you can keep on top of the problem before it takes hold.

Deadhead fading flowers of daffodils, but leave the foliage alone.

Plant summer flowering bulbs this month and next month for a succession of flowers.

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

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Lifestyle

Garden Design Special Introductory Offer:

Full Consultation & Full Garden Design package

ONLY £199.00!*

(Normal Price Approx £375.00)

Tel: 07766293650

Email: [email protected]

*Offer valid until May 31st 2011. Offer only valid with this advert.

Lifestyle

Wedding services

Wedding & Events Dressing

Bespoke Handmade Wedding Stationary *From Just £1.50!*

Bespoke Tiara & Wedding Jewellery Service

FREE CONSULTATION

Tel: 07918126892 Email: [email protected]

Stratford Music Centre

ROCK SCHOOL

SATURDAY4.00 – 5.15pmPlaces available after EasterDrums, guitars, keyboards and singersStudents 11-16yrsTermly Gig @ Cox’s YardIndividual lessons available

01789 [email protected]

The Image in Stratford can help you

Ouradvertscomeinarangeofsizesandalldesignworkisincludedintheprice.

Youradvertwillalsoappearonoure-magazineatwww.theimage-stratford.co.ukandyoucanfeatureinourmid-monthlye-newsletter.

Contact JJ on 07779 222301 or email [email protected]


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- FLOOR STOCK -

REDUCTIONSof up to £7,000

www.affinityspas.co.uk tel: 01386 442624

Affinity Garden Spas & Hot TubsUnit 3 Orleans Close, Davies Road

Evesham, Worcs. WR11 2FP( O P P O S I T E E V E S H A M C O L L E G E )

Further details & helpful advice from

Andy & Rita Thompson- supplying Evesham and the

surrounding areas FOR OVER A DECADE

Features include: ~ HYDROTHERAPY ~MASSAGERS ~ WATER RESISTANCE TRAINING

WAVE MACHINES ~ SWIM JETS ~ iPOD STEREO SYSTEMS ~ & MUCH, MUCH MORE

MANAGERSSPECIALS

from just

£1,80080+ hot tubs heldin our UK bondedwarehouse so a

QUICK DELIVERYis our speciality!

FREEDELIVERY

INSTALLATION ACCESSORIES

Terms & Conditions apply.

Bring yourswimwear

and have a test driveduring your visit!

SATURDAY 19th MARCH from 10:00am SUNDAY 20th MARCH from 10.30am

! FANTASTIC 2 DAY ONLY OFFERS AT OUR SPRING SALE !

F R E E R E F R E S H M E N T S & S O M E T H I N G T O K E E P T H E C H I L D R E N H A P P Y T O O !

All good things come in threes...according to CHANNEL 4’s Secret Millionaire Roisin Isaacs“I have purchased all three of my hot tubs from Andy and Rita over the past 9

years now. In that time I have bought three Dimension One Arena hot tubs,” saysRoisin Isaacs. “The first in 2002 for home, the second in 2006 for my Aunt'shydrotherapy needs and the third in 2009 for a second property. This model inparticular suits me as I like to have as many people in the tub as possible whenwe have a house party. It's the perfect spa for socialising. All three have proven tobe great investments and the first hot tub is still going great guns! The ritual, if wecan call it that, is now well established. It's the ideal place for putting the world torights every night and relaxing the stresses and strains of the day away.“In my view, Andy and Rita are true professionals in their sales, delivery, set up

and ongoing after sales support. I always feel they are at the end of the phone if Ineed them. And that is why I didn'thesitate to go back to them time and timeagain. “I would not hesitate to recommendtheir services to anyone consideringpurchasing a hot tub."

Why not call in at the showroon and joinAffinity Spas’ anniversary celebrationsduring their forthcoming Open Weekend.

SUPPLIED

OPEN WEEKEND141 Affinity 1/2 PAGE 2/11/11 2:19 PM Page 1

Some Doggy facts: Did you know

Dogs become loyal not because you feed them, but because of the companionship you give them.

A dog’s nose is not just used for smelling, but also to keep him cool. That’s why a dog pants. The longer the dog’s nose, the better his cooling system works!

Dogs and cats turn in circles before lying down because in the wild this instinctive action turns long grass into a bed.

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

The Animal Rescue& Rehabilitation Society

We managed to re-home the list of dogs and cats that were on our books by the middle of January ready for me to go away and learn more about canine aggression towards other dogs so that they can eventually be managed better in the rescue and rehabilitated with better success.

My tutor was Angela Stockdale and what a fantastic canine teacher she was. I’m hoping to see her again in the future to pick up more tips. While I was there I met some lovely ladies from Notts and Yorkshire Boxer Rescue and realised we had the same vision of animal welfare, rehabilitation and the need for animal rescue’s to work together. When I got back I had an old boxer dog in the stray dog pound and instantly knew where he could go for re-homing. One of my fosterers is going to look after him for a few weeks to assess him and find out more about him, then when Boxer Rescue have space, he will be transferred to them for re-homing. A good example of how rescue’s can work together to help save animals.

TARRS has also taken on 2 lovely cats, Daisy and Duke. They were abandoned in a house where the

owners were evicted in Warwickshire and had been left without food or water. They were understandably confused and hungry when I got there but have now settled in quite well and are waiting to be neutered and vaccinated. They should be ready for re-homing in a few weeks time. We have finally found a home for our long standing lonely feral cat called Little Bear. He has had a hectic life, once living in a colony with lots of other cats, then the owners moved and took the cats with them only to not have as much room as they thought they may have and had to give up a few of them to cope with lack of space. Little Bear has been in foster ever since and may now finally have found a new home (barn), a new friend hopefully to share his enormous space and finally freedom. He has funnily enough got use to humans while he has been moved around and will now come for a small fuss, but not for too long. Here’s wishing Little Bear well on his new adventure. Updates will arrive next month on his progress.

We are still desperate for foster carers for dogs, mainly without other pets or children in the home so we can carry on rescuing dogs from Death Row or taking on unsociable dogs. Thank you to everyone who has expressed an interest in fostering so far, hopefully a date can be set for us to meet up and talk through the fostering experience. I would also like to thank everyone who sent Christmas cards and donated food and blankets for the animals, it’s wonderful to hear from you all and the animals say “Thank you”. Please look on the website for this year’s events; dates have yet to be set at time of press.

It’s been a bit of a mad month here at TARRS with helping find new animals homes, taking stray dogs from pounds, learning more about canine aggression towards other dogs and keeping on top of the feral cats.

Please visit our website for more information:www.tarrs.org.uk

Duke

Daisy

Bertie


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The ImageweddingsLast month we covered the big decisions you have to make as soon as you decide you are getting married. This month we will carry on from this with what to do to get yourself organised. By doing this first you will save yourself a lot of stress in the months prior to the wedding.

• Write your timeline down and plot all the major tasks you need to complete. All wedding magazines have wedding planning timelines that you can base yours on and this is a great way of spreading out the work involved but also lessening the stress because if you stick to it you won’t start worrying about things that you don’t need to worry about yet.

• Make sure you have somewhere to store everything related to the wedding in every place you will access it. If you use a PC make sure you have a wedding folder. If you’re going to do a lot of correspondence via email make sure you have a wedding folder there too and may be even sub-folders underneath. Have an actual wedding folder to store hard copies of everything in and buy some file dividers. Split the folder into logical sections so you can store everything away and then put your hand to it if you need it.

• When you are flicking through all those Bridal magazines you have spent a small fortune on, rip out all the pictures you like and then file them away. They can also be used for creating your mood board.

• Start a mood board of all your ideas. This is great for you to work through your ideas but also a fantastic help to suppliers when you are trying to explain to them how you see things.

• Have a notebook and pen with you where ever you go so if something pops into you head, write it down so you don’t forget. This includes questions you want to ask suppliers. Make sure you take it to bed with you too, so you don’t start losing sleep.

• Start a summary sheet of all your suppliers and include all the important information so you can see at a glance without trawling through lots of emails or paper. Important information would be things such as, company name, contact name, contact telephone numbers, bank details for BACS payments, amount due, balance / deposit paid / due, has the contract been agreed / signed. Also put their contact numbers straight into your mobile phone so if you have a question or a problem when you’re out and about you can always contact them.

Don’t worry, if being organised isn’t your thing or you just don’t have time to be then look into hiring a professional wedding planner, this is what they do best and they can just help where you need them to.

Is there anything you would like us to feature in the future or maybe you have a burning question you would like us to answer. If you do just drop a line to [email protected] and we will see what we can do.

Wedding WisdomTo reduce the risk of temptations if you’re a bride on a budget always have a budget in mind before speaking to a supplier and let them know what your budget is so they don’t start offering you things you can’t afford.

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

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WMHproviding marquees for you and your planned special occasion

Wedding Ceremonies | Corporate Events | Family Occasions

A HUGE SELECTION OF MARQUEES AND INTERIORS TO SUIT YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

FURNITURE, LIGHTING, FLOORING, STAGING AND TOILETS

ALSO AVAILABLE TO HIRE

Tel: 01789 778 574 Mob: 0788 798 3862 [email protected]

Collection and delivery service One call to us could save you two trips to the shop

Order a collection and delivery service online at: www.crossroadsdrycleaners.co.uk

or call 01789 400 006

Any size duvet washed for £14, 2 duvets for only £25

Receive a free storage bag with all orders(pre-payment only)

HOT OFFER!

•3itemsforthepriceof2drycleaned*•20%offSuedesandLeathers•20%offCurtainsandUpholstery *Conditionsapply

Unit 5, Bulls Head Yard, Alcester, B49 5BX




Contact JJ on 07779 222301 or email sales@theimage- stratford.co.uk

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

• Property Development• Extension & Renovation• Bathrooms and Kitchens• Carpentry/Joinery• Plumbing & Electrical

Using only CORGI & NIC/EIC Registered Tradesmen

www.asbuilders-midlands.com

For more information CALL 07534894603

offering the complete building solution

Three days before Christmas, my husband Richard and I moved into our first home. Being our first home, it is a DIYer’s delight with a pink exterior to be painted, grease stained carpet to be replaced, and lots of other issues (we are finding more everyday, funnily enough!). Wanting to enjoy our Christmas, Richard decided to start out with a simple task before tackling the more labour intensive tasks after the New Year.

How hard could it be, after all, to get a phone connection into our study so we could have internet access? Deciding to run a phone cable through the roof from the phone jack in the garage, in order to feed it through the ceiling of our study, Richard ventured up the manhole in the garage roof with the phone cable and crawled along the narrow space towards the dining room. As I guided him towards the study, I received a great fright as I saw his foot come flying through the ceiling in the study and plaster flying everywhere. He had not realised that he was no longer walking along the beam. Managing to correct himself and regain his composure, Richard eventually fed the phone cable through to the study and then returned slowly to the entry-hole in the garage roof.

At this stage, I reminded him that he also needed to bring the other end of the cable back with him in order to plug that into the phone jack in the garage, rather than leaving it lying in the roof. When he did return the second time with the cable, the board and plaster he perched himself on in the garage gave way, dramatically increasing the size of the entry hole to the roof.

We now have an internet connection in the study... but we also have two damaged ceilings, Richard has a badly sprained arm that took the impact of his second fall, and, best of all, we have all our other DIY adventures to look forward to!

From Meredith

SMALL REMOVALS local or long distance. Also 'man & van' for local businesses and individuals.Single item to full van. House & junk clearance.

Call 07711 589808 or 0845 2570514 www.light-haulage.eu

Light Haulage


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Keep an eye out on this section where we at AKSB CLEANING will provide tips for everyday carpet care & stain removal.

We at AKSB mentioned that it is very important not to scrub stains but to blot them in order to

help remove them. There are a variety of everyday products that may help the process and to start with a basic detergent solution should be used

which can be created by.........

Go to www.aksb.co.uk for further information

Tip – adding one teaspoon of a detergent solution suitable for washing woollens to 0.3 litres

(half a pint) of warm water. Use this as a basic initial solution to

blot the stain with.

AKSB Tip of the month

Henley

� Boiler replacement, repairs and servicing

� Unvented hot water systems

� Central heating powerflushing

� Radiators added or removed

� Underfloor heating

� Solar hot water

01564 793485 07894 35147707917 182833

Phone:Karl:Ian:

Gas � LPG � Oil

Professional Carpet & Window Cleaning Services

P Fully accredited with the NCCA/FWC

P FREE quotations

P Environmentally friendly products

P Local company

P Truckmounted and Portable Equipment

P Email/text notification of service

P Payments accepted online

Other services available. Contact us for details.

Call: 01789 207430 (office hours) or 07834 994868or visit www.aksb.co.uk

CARPENTRYPLUS+

Call John on07966 400095

or 01527 458987

T.L.C. for your home or office

I can look after all of your carpentry, plumbing, and decorating requirements.

No job too small over 40 years in the trade. Free

quotes and advice given.


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Unit 10, Beechtree Park,Waterloo Industrial Estate,Bidford

Call:

01789 77 28 27

CARS • VANS • AGRICULTURAL • INDUSTRIAL • 4X4

All makes supplied and fitted> Batteries> Brakes> Exhausts> Steering> Suspension> Servicing> Laser Wheel Alignment

>> NOW OPEN IN BIDFORD-ON-AVON>>

VAN, CAR, MPV’s &

MINIBUS HIRE

www.eveshamselfdrive.co.uk

Telephone Alan on01386 833700

Blackminster • Evesham • WR11 7RE

[email protected]

CarsVans

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Vintage Cars to Modern CarsComputer Diagnostics

Mechanical & Electrical RepairsMOTs

Welding24 Hour Recovery

Complete Vehicle RestorationsCars, Vans & Commercials

Telephone (24 Hour)

0870 80 33 247

Warwickshire’s No. 1 for:

Service & Repairs – ANY make, ANY model

FREE Courtesy cars

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

Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 0HT

OUT OF HOURS SERVICE ALWAYS ACCOMMODATED





STRATFORD PLASTICS UNIT 4 WESTERN ROAD, STRATFORD UPON AVON

TEL: 01789 268071

we take all credit and debit cards

• Family run business• Open to the trade and public• Supply and fit carports and conservatories• Full stock of plastics- hollow soffit fascia capping guttering

• Finance available

• All major/minor work undertaken


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HospitalsNHS Direct 0845 4647

Stratford 01789 205831

Warwick 01926 495321

Alcester 01789 762470

PoliceStratford 01789 414111

Alcester 01789 762207

UtilitiesGas Emergency 0800 111 999

Electricity Power Loss 0800 3281111

Severn Trent 0800 7834444

BT Fault Line 0800 800151

Miscellaneous Citizens Advice 01789 293299

01789 261966

Stratford Library 01789 292209

Alcester Library 01789 762430

Bidford Library 01789 773239

Henley in Arden Library 01564 792965

Doctors / Health Rother House MC 01789 269386

Bridge House MC 01789 292201

Arden MC 01789 414942

Trinity Court 01789 292895

Alcester HC 01789 763060

Arrow Lodge Surgery 01789 763293

Bidford HC 01789 773372

Useful NumbersThe Image RETAIL SPA

Setting A Marketing Plan Yourshopisyourbrandandthegrowthofitisthefuture,itisthereforeimperativethatyouhaveanongoingmarketingdriveattheheartofyourstrategy.However,itiscriticalthatyouthinkcarefullyaboutyourapproach-amismanaged,misdirectedcampaigncandoirreparabledamagetoyourbusiness.

OverthenextfeweditionsoftheImage,wewillbefocussingonputtingamarketingplantogether,implementingitandthenmeasuringtheresults.

Amarketingplanwithoutasoundstrategicfoundationisoflittleuseanditisessentialthatitisevaluated.Toachievemaximumimpact,aneffectivemarketingplanmustbeclear,conciseandsimple.

Itthereforeneedsthefollowingkeyelementsatitsheart:

1/ Acoremissionandcoreobjectives.Whyareyoudoingit? Whatistheoutcomeyouarelookingfor?

2/ Adescription-itgivesyoufocusontheapproachand continuallyremindsyouandyourteamofthereasonwhy.

3/ Realism–don’tbiteoffmorethanyoucanchew. Youwillgetlostinthemelee.Keepitsimple.

4/Abudget-itiseasytospendmoneylikewateronmarketing. Oneword…don’t!Worktoacostbudget.Andsticktoit.

5/Parametersofwhatsuccesslookslike.Toascertainwhether ithasworkedornot,itisvitalthatresultsaremeasurable.

Soyouknowyourmarketingobjectivesandhavemoneysetaside,thenextquestionistodecidewhatareaofyourbusinesstopromote.Therearesomekeyquestionstoaskyourselfhere:

Knowyourcustomer

Whatdoyoucustomersloveanddislikeaboutyourstore?Whereareyourcustomerstravellingfrom?

Knowyourproduct

Whatproductsareperformingbest?Whatareasarebesttopromoteandwhatsalestrendsoreventsarebesttocapitaliseon?

Knowyourmarket

Whatisyourlocalcompetition?Whatishappeninginthewidernationalpicture?

Withasimplestructureinplaceandacoreobjectivebasedonfact,youarereadytogowithyourmarketingplan.

Finalwords...beclear,focussed,quantified,realisticandagreeitwithyourteam.Inthenextedition,wewilllookatchoosingtherightmarketingvehicletopromoteyourcampaign.

AfterspendingtwentyyearsbuildingkeybrandsintheHighStreet,retailspaisnowworkingwithindependentretailers,makingtheirlifeeasierbysolvingimportantretailproblems.

Ifyouareorknowashopownerwhowouldlikesupportandafreeretailspaassessment,pleasecontact Tony Scott atretailspaon07894222557orgotothewebsiteatwww.retailspa.co.uk.


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What are the secrets of a healthy skin?

Sauna: This centuries old ritual detoxifies the body and increases blood flow to the skin. As a result - and this is important - your subcutaneous and surface tissue gets more nutrients so the quality of your skin gradually improves.

Carotenoids: Dull and pale skin in the winter? The easiest thing you can do is to eat plenty of Fruit and vegetables rich in carotenoids. A recent UK study led by Dr Ian Stephen revealed that these substances give skin a natural healthy colour and golden glow. “We found that, given the choice between skin colour caused by suntan and skin colour caused by carotenoids, people preferred the carotenoid skin colour,” explains Dr Ian Stephen. Carotenoids can be found in carrots, tomatoes and spinach.

Water: Drinking adequate amounts of water is essential for optimum skin health. Chronic dehydration will make your skin look older and less smooth.

Vitamins C and E: Our skin reacts well to certain vitamins. For example, vitamin C protects fibres that support skin structure - elastin and collagen - by reducing free radical damage. Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that protects you from damage caused by sun exposure. Both vitamins are present in fruits and vegetables.

Omega-3 Fatty acids: Essential fatty acids reduce inflammation and allergy-related eczema. Omega-3s can also be used to keep your skin moist and flexible.

Silica and zinc: Both silica and zinc are vital for the maintenance of youthful and healthy skin . Silica deficiency may lead to reduced skin elasticity and promote wrinkles. Zinc is essential for skin regeneration and oil content control. You can find these trace minerals in pumpkin seeds and shellfish (zinc) or green beans, cucumber and strawberries (silica).

Sleep: Most people need seven to eight hours a night. Allowing adequate time for sleep will improve bags and tired eyes.

Our nutrition and lifestyle are the keys to healthy looking skin. Focus on creating health from the inside out and you’ll soon achieve youthful, smooth and healthy skin.

Source material - Natural news

Our skin is a fingerprint of what’s going on inside the body. This is why nutrition and detoxification beat cosmetics hands down. Here are seven tips to nourish and protect your skin naturally:

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Do you have an embarrassing problem when you sneeze, cough, laugh, exercise at the gym, play on the trampoline with the children. If so you are not alone, thousands of women experience leaking, when they are doing everyday tasks.

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Take back your control, confidence and composure with IncoFree, the amazing, NEW alternative to pads.

Start living you life to the full with the help of IncoFreeTo find out more go to

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or call 0845 3035868 and Take back your Control, Confidence and Composure

For life’s unexpected moments

“I must tell you how thrilled I am with your product. I am a Personal Trainer & Fitness Instructor and I have had problems with stress incontinence since my daughter’s birth. Despite years of core training, and the use of a pelvic toner, there are still times in the month when I am badly restricted in what I teach as I cannot risk jumping up and down or anything high impact. IncoFree has literally changed my life! I have already recommended IncoFree to a few clients and fully intend to spread the message. Thank you again.”

“Just wanted to drop you a line to thank you for a speedy service as I received my package on Monday after ordering it with you on Saturday! So I took the opportunity to go for my first run last night with it and it worked! It was such a relief to run in comfort without worrying about any leakage. What a marvellous product and I wished I had known about it before... I will certainly pass on the details to friends and promote the product anyway I can. It was comfortable and I didn’t even know it was there! So thank you and now I can be confident in the Great South Run this Sunday and with any other exercise I carry out!”


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Essential fats for vegetarians

The Imagehealth & wellbeing

For more information or to book an appointment please contact Jackie on 0845 327 9070 or email her [email protected]. Jackie is now working from the prestigious Wildmoor Spa in Stratford upon Avon.

Essential fats are so defined as they are vital for, but cannot be made by the human body and therefore we must receive it through our diet.

Flaxseeds are the most concentrated plant source of the omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered heart-healthy nutrients that also have anti-inflammatory properties. This is a great recipe that incorporates flaxseeds.

Linseed flapjacks • 280g butter • 70g syrup (maple/golden/agave) • 210g soft brown sugar • 280g porridge oats • 187g ground linseed meal

Warm and melt the butter with the syrup. Then mix in the sugar, oats and ground linseed meal. Spread into 12”x 8” tray and bake for 20 minutes (approx) at 160°c (fan oven) until lightly browned.

Linseed/flaxseed can be purchased from supermarkets or healthstores and ground in a coffee grinder. Sometimes you can buy it pre-ground.

Health & WellbeingWith Alveston Manor Fitness Instructor Alveston Manor Hotel and Spa Tel: 0844879 9138

Exercise Equipment Duration Sets Reps Weight/Resistance

WARM UP-CV BIKE 10 min. Level 3/Speed min. 60 (rmp)

RUN TREADMILL 10 min. • 1 min 5.5 km/h• 8 min 7.2 km/h• 1 min 5.5 mk/h

RUN CROSSTRAINER 10 min. Level 3/ Speed min. 100 (spm)

Fixed Resistance Weights

LEG EXTENSION LEG EXTENSION MACHINE 20 sec. breaks 2 10 20kg

CALF RAISE LEG PRESS MACHINE 20 sec. breaks 2 10 15kg

LAT PULL DOWN LAT MACHINE/ REVERSE GRIP 20 sec. breaks 2 10 15kg

CHEST PRESS CHEST PRESS MACHINE 20 sec. breaks 2 10 10kg

Free Weights

ALTERNATE FRONT RAISES DUMBELLS 20 sec. breaks 2 10 3 kg

LATERAL RAISE - STAND DUMBELLS 20 sec. breaks 2 10 2 kg

ALTERNATE ARM CURL DUMBELLS 20 sec. breaks 2 10 3 kg

ALTERNATE HUMMERS CURL DUMBELLS 20 sec. breaks 2 10 3 kg

Cool Down-CV

ROWING ROWING MACHINE 5 min. Level 6

The program needs to be followed 3 times a week for the first 6 weeks.


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Was one of your New Year’s resolutions to lose weight and get fit, but the thought of starving yourself, going to the gym and being with all those skinny toned people, your idea of hell! If so take heart because that was just the way I felt too!

The word diet sends me into a food frenzy – I instantly feel hungry, and the need to open a packet of chocolate biscuits becomes irresistible, but, I knew I needed to find a way to get fit and healthy, that did not involve either of the words diet or gym!

My son had been to see a Personal trainer and life coach a few months ago, and I was really impressed by how much weight he had lost - 4 stone, in 8 months! He told me that he was going to tell Helen (the Personal trainer) to expect a call from me, as I really need to see her!! Children can be so honest, even when they are adults!! So with some trepidation I made the call to Helen from Strawberry Sofa. Helen arranged to come and see me at home and discuss my fitness and life style. Helen meets up with me once a week and goes through my food diary, we also go for a walk and a 15 minute work out at home – its great – no one looking at you. I am so uncoordinated for me that is a massive plus!

My first goal was to get moving and improve my fitness, as I am either sat at a desk, or in the car all day, so, moving about on two legs is not something I do much of! I have had to change the way I structure my day, so I now take a 10 minute brisk walk each day, usually around lunch time, this also means I stop and have something to eat properly, rather than grabbing a few biscuits when I feel hungry, and twice a week I also take a brisk 1 mile walk, this I am hoping to increase to 3 miles, as I would like to take part in The Race for Life – more about that in the next issue. I have decreased the amount of food I put on my plate – I have found using a smaller plate the best way, as the plate still looks full - and I have started to count calories. Helen said that I could have between 1500 and 1600 calories per day. I have also had to give up cheese and butter! And I have had to increase the amount I drink each day – water that is -not alcohol!

Every month I am going to write my Walkslim and fitness diary, and I really hope it will inspire some of you to do the same. I already feel as if I have more energy and bounce. Here is my first 4 week diary. If you would like to find out more about how to Walkslim then please Contact Helen at Strawberry Sofa.

with Suezy, and Helen from Strawberry Sofa

WalkslimFebruary Walkslim Diary Age: 52 - almost 53! Height: 5ft.1 ½” Starting weight: 15.10 3/4 Stone 4 week weigh in: 15.5 StoneTotal weight loss: 5 3/4 Ilbs

Daily Allowance: • ½ pint Skimmed Milk • 250 Calories Breakfast • 150 Calories Snack • 400 Calories Lunch • 500 Calories Dinner • 100 Calories Treat

Next month I will give you some meal ideas.

Suezy x

Helen at Strawberry Sofa

Tel: 077400309750

www.strawberrysofa.com

Fitness Instructor Alveston Manor Hotel and Spa Tel: 0844879 9138


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What you need to know about Olive Oil


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Olive oil has a long history as a healer

Olive oil, that magical elixir from the Mediterranean, has long been known to confer many health benefits. It is one reason people who eat the Mediterranean diet live such long, healthy and happy lives.

The health and therapeutic benefits of olive oil were first mentioned by Hippocrates, who promoted the idea that food was the best and only medicine worth using. Olive oil has contributed to the nutrition and beauty of the Mediterraneans for centuries, where it is used to maintain skin, hair, and muscle suppleness. It is a healer of abrasions, and soother of the sunburned. It has a history of external as well as internal use, and is one reason Mediterranean women have such glowing skin.

Consuming olive oil can help lower LDL cholesterol. It is rich in antioxidants that discourage artery clogging and chronic diseases involving the cardio-vascular system. People who use olive oil regularly and in place of other fats such as hydrogenated fats and vegetable oils are said to have much lower rates of atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and asthma.

Olive oil is monounsaturated fatThere are three kinds of dietary fats: saturated fat that comes from animals and coconuts; polyunsaturated fat that comes from plants, seeds, nuts, and vegetable oil; and monounsaturated fat that comes from olive and safflower oil. Monounsaturated fats contain no cholesterol. It is not the monounsaturated fat of olive oil that conveys most of its health benefits. Instead, it is the polyphenols of olive oil that produce its remarkable benefits.

Extra virgin olive oil is well worth its costWhile all types of olive oil are sources of monounsaturated fat, extra virgin olive oil, the oil that comes from the first pressing of the olives, contains higher levels of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols and vitamin E, because it is less processed.

Generally olive oil is extracted by pressing or crushing olives. It comes in different varieties depending on the amount of pressing. These include:

Extra virgin oil - considered the best variety. It is extracted without the use of heat, and is considered a cold pressed oil. Because there is no heat or chemicals involved in its processing the flavour remains intact. As it is handled less, it retains more of its natural state.

Virgin oil - from the second pressing. It is like using a tea bag twice. The nutrients and the flavour just are not what they were the first time around.

Pure - oil has undergone some processing and heat during filtering and refining. A little extra virgin olive oil is added to this refined oil, and creates what is considered a lower grade of oil that is frequently sold under the simple term olive oil.

Extra light - oil has undergone considerable processing and is valued by some for its lack of flavour. In this processing many nutrients are compromised. It is frequently marketed as light oil to fool you into thinking it is low fat. This type of oil is unregulated by any certification organization and there is no precedent as to what its content should be. Sometimes it has been cut with other vegetable oils.

Using olive oilOlive oil prefers to hide its beauty. It does best when kept in a cool and dark location, in a tightly sealed bottle. This is why the really good extra virgin oils come in dark glass bottles. Like other oils, olive oil can easily become rancid when exposed to air, light or high temperatures.

The measure of an oils ability to be used in cooking is its smoke point. Once an oil begins to smoke it has lost its integrity and is producing free radicals.

Olive oil is fine for use in cooking at very low temperatures. For cooking at higher temperatures safflower oil or coconut oil are much better choices. Safflower oil, the other monosaturated oil, retains its integrity at temperatures up to 500 degrees, as does coconut oil. The flavour of safflower oil is not as delicate as that of olive oil, but when it is used in cooking other flavours usually blend well with its taste. Olive oil may be added to cooked foods when they have cooled.

Get creative with olive oilAdd olive oil to almost any cooked food after it has cooled. Use it in soups, sauces, beans, stews, and vegetable dishes. Replace vegetable oil in salad dressings and mayonnaise. Any mealtime fat can be replaced by olive oil. Put some in fresh veggie juices and smoothies. Use it in baked potatoes with herbs such as turmeric, cayenne and cumin. Add it to mashed potatoes. Warm green beans, broccoli or spinach and add olive oil and garlic. Coat cooked pasta in it. Olive oil makes a great dip for bread, especially when embellished with some oregano or thyme. Put it on air popped corn along with some sea salt and black pepper. You can even use Olive oil as a hair conditioner and a skin softener.

Source material www.naturalnews.com



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Over four months in design and build, this brand new showroom is state of the art with 6 full kitchen displays, as well as dressing rooms,. The floor is very unusual being covered in granite and wood reflecting the availability of work surfaces. To compliment the choices will be a selection of natural stone tiles.

Pete Vale will be heading the helm at the new showroom. With a wealth of experience gained from years in the building industry, more recently at one of South West largest granite companies and in the last 3 years, as Sales Manager at Parlour Farm in Cirencester, Pete is very experienced in all aspects of kitchen design.

Nick Grunfeld, MD of Parlour Farm said “I am really excited over this new expansion. We have worked long and hard for this and to have the opportunity to start with a blank canvas at Blackminster is great. This showroom is stunning!”

Parlour Farm has gained an enviable reputation in the bespoke kitchen business and pride themselves on the fact that over 85% of their business is by recommendation. “It is very gratifying to have done such a good job that people are happy to recommend their friends and family. That is a real accolade of trust.”

Employing 27 local staff, all their manufacturing is based in Cirencester. Parlour Farm do not outsource any aspect of what they do. The watch words are “control and quality”. It is quite extraordinary the complexity and detail required to successfully transmit design ideas into a beautiful bespoke kitchen. “We just could not do this if we subcontracted our production” says Nick, “We invested in a whole new production facility in 2004 and have introduced highly sophisticated machinery since then to assist with expansion. We actively train and invest in further training for staff at every level. Through this we ensure that our quality is beyond question.”

However, as Nick is keen to point out “designing a bespoke kitchen sounds easy. Nothing could be further from the truth. In years gone

by it was a complete, isolated, room with one function – to cook! – now the kitchen is not only for cooking but is also the living room, the dining room, the chill out zone, the glass of wine room, the party room, the TV room – there is a reason why they call it the heart of the home! It is now the “gathering place”. As such it is key that it works with the rooms that connect to it. I train all our staff not to look at the kitchen in isolation. It just doesn’t work! One can create the most beautiful kitchen but if it doesn’t connect to what goes on in the house it just won’t work. We work with architects and builders from the very inception of projects. I would say that 90% of the projects we get involved with require a strategic amount of space planning before we get involved in that actual kitchen design”.

Parlour Farm do not operate high pressure sales techniques (dread the thought) and no one is on commission! Nick pointed out “Unless our staff are motivated correctly then how can they best advise the customer! If they are rewarded purely based on the size of the sale then their interest or focus changes away from what’s best for the customer. It is key! – so many kitchen companies reward on commission, and we have seen, as a result, some real shockers. In most cases we actually save customers money by designing a kitchen based around their lifestyle, against what others seem to want to cram in to get the highest sale value.”

Parlour Farm offer a free design service and really encourage an initial meeting within their showrooms so the client can see what is possible. It is relaxed, informal and really makes you feel at ease. Everything is explained and with their organisation and support it really is a great business. It is very refreshing to see that in their growth they have not lost the personal touch that so many others seem to lose.

Parlour Farm Kitchens cost on average between £14,000 and £25,000 full installed. Dressing Rooms start at £3,000. For further information www.parlourfarm.com or call in to the new Blackminster showrooms at Blackminster Business Park, Station Road, Blackminster, WR11 7RE. They are open 9am till 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and can be reached on 01386 830006.

parlourfarmbeautiful bespoke kitchens

Parlour Farm Kitchens is a strange company! Whilst most companies are battening down the hatches as the economy shakes and rattles with news of doom and gloom, Parlour Farm are bucking the trend and investing in a brand new showroom at Blackminster Business Park.

brand new showroom in blackminster

opening 1st march 20112500 sqft Purpose built showroom

7 Full show kitchens • Flooring and Granite surfaces

for more information visit www.parlourfarm.com

blackminster business Park, blackminster, evesham, worcestershire wr11 7re t 01386 830006 e [email protected]

parlourfarmbeautiful bespoke kitchens

blackminsteropening_advert.indd 1 16/02/2011 10:40:17

THIS

MONTH’S

PRIZE

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The Imagefood & drinkWelcome to this month’s food and drink section where we have a mouth watering Recipe of the Month - Boozy Tiramisu.

Great offers for dinning out - If you fancy something different, why not try Via Cracow, they will give you a truly Eastern European dinning experience, and they are offering 20% off your bill Monday - Thursday, 6pm - late, cut out their advert and take it with you.

Grab yourself a FREE curry at Simla’s, when you order a Main dish + rice or Naan Bread, don’t forget to take the advert with you.

See our wines of the month with Vinology.

And we at The Image Magazine in conjunction with De Montfort Country Dining are hosting a Charity event for The Shakespeare Hospice, to find out more turn to page 27.



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HOT OFFER!

The Image in Stratford can help youOuradvertscomeinarangeofsizesandalldesignworkisincludedintheprice.



Please call Chris at the De Montfort on 01386 41277 to book your table. The “Best of English” 4 Course menu is below:

Breaded smoked ham, wrapped asparagus, spicy tomato sauce, herbed hollandaise

Roast peppered sirloin of beef, Yorkshire pudding, seasonal vegetables

Bakewell tart, home-made custard

English cheese platter

Coffee and dinner chocolates

Tickets cost £40 each with £10 from each ticket sold going to The Shakespeare Hospice.

We look forward to seeing you there.

The Image Magazine and De Montfort Country Dining, Offenham, St Georges Day Charity Dinner and Tombola in aid of The Shakespeare Hospice.

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Dine in with

1. Mix the coffee ½ of the Irish Cream Liqueur.

2. Dip the sponge fingers into the coffee and Irish Cream, soaking them on both sides – don’t let them get soggy! And then line the bottom of a 22cm square dish with the sponge biscuits.

3. Separate the eggs, keeping both yolks, but only one of the whites. Whisk the egg yolks and the sugar together until think and a pale yellow colour, fold in the remaining Irish Cream Liqueur, and the mascarpone. Fold until well mixed.

4. whisk the egg white until think and frothy. Then Fold the egg white into the mascarpone mixture. Spread ½ this mixture on top of the soaked sponge biscuits. Then repeat with an other layer of soaked sponge biscuits and top with the mascarpone mixture.

5. Just before you are ready to serve, dust the top with the cocoa powder.

What you need.• 350ml espresso coffee, made with 350ml of water and 9 tea spoons of instant espresso coffee powder – needs to be cooled• 250ml Irish cream liqueur • 2 x 200g packets of Italian sponge fingers• 2 eggs• 75g Caster sugar • 500g Mascarpone• Cocoa powder – to dust the top

Easy Boozy Tiramisu... delicious!

The Image

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The Quiz

Down:

1 Open weekend 19-20 March

2 For a beautiful

bespoke kitchen

3 The Image magazine and

De Montfort Country Dining

charity event is in aid of

this hospice

4 Get 10% off any of their

products until end of April

Across:

5 Offering free trial

ballet classes

6 For carports and

conservatories

7 Our quiz prize winners can

dine here in style

8 _ _ _ _ _ _ Plumbing

& Heating at...

March’s QuizIt’s so easy! All you have to do is

fill in the squares and then piece

together the shaded letters to

spell out an anagram that reveals

something topical during March.

Email your answer, along

with contact details and your

feedback on this magazine to

[email protected]

All correct entries will go into the

exciting prize draw with a chance

of winning a meal for four at Grants

of Sheep Street!

WIN!!!

...win a meal for 4 at Grants of Sheep Street!

This month we’re giving away a meal for four at Grants of Sheep Street!

Terms and Conditions apply

Anagram (Two words – We’ve filled in two letters for you)

T E

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The Red LionGreat Value

2 for £11

available Monday – Friday | 12 noon – 6.30pm

1 Warwick Road, Bridgefoot, Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 6YW

01789 266858

Hand-battered Fish & Chips

Pork, leek & Bacon Sausages and Mash

Roast Chicken & Mushroom Pie

Ham and Eggs

Chilli Con Carne

Quorn Chilli (v)

Breaded Scampi and Chips

6oz Blackened Minute Steak

Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli (v)

6oz Lamb, Chicken Breast or Beef BurgerChoose any combinationof our 2 for £11 dishes

HOT OFFER!

FREE Curry Main MealThroughout March

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

Offer valid on presentation of this voucher on collected orders only

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

Tel: 01789 269906/7

HOT OFFER!CUT OUT

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

✂

Conditions apply, Cash payment only for this offer

Available at Vinology49 Henley St, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warks,

CV37 6QW Tel: 01789 264 586

Mocen Verdejo Viura 2009 Produced in Spain’s fashionable white wine region. It is a classically dry, crisp and aromatic blend of Verdejo and Viura. Smooth, well balanced and easy drinking. The perfect combination to grilled seafood and most light white meat dishes.

Normal retail price £8.99, now available at Vinology: £5.99

Domaine Mas Barrau Cabernet Franc 2009 A wine that releases Cabernet Franc to new levels of pleasure. Sweet scented fruit twinned with an edgy woodland perfume. An excellent match for roasted or grilled read meats, or a good cheeseboard. Normal retail price £8.99, now available at Vinology: £5.99

Wine of the Month





The Image in Stratford March 2011

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Transcript of The Image in Stratford March 2011