Ludlow Lifestyle May - Jun 2021

Don’t put your 

life on hold 

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Contents 

A Note 

from the EDITOR 

20 

Back 

A Culinary Journey through 

to Basics - perfect egg recipes 

Northern Ireland 

The competition 

page returns 

06 

At last, as I write, we are hopefully 

nearing the end of the restriction 

tunnel. We should proceed 

with caution, but the tantalising 

glimpses of life returning to normal 

are just great to savour. 

The past year has been fraught with 

challenges, but hasn’t it been filled 

with learning too? Of our resilience, 

our adaptability and of course, a big 

old beacon shining on the things 

that really matter. It’s hard to think 

it’s been over a year since we went 

into the first lockdown - I naively 

thought it would be a month or 

two. Here we are, more than 365 

days on - a little battle weary, but all 

the wiser. But, it’s shaped us - and 

shaped the way we make our little 

magazine too! 

First up, we’ve got some tasty egg 

recipes which will take you right 

back to nailing those basics, plus 

some ideas on how to take them to 

the next level. 

How can your 

garden grow? 

22 

Key Account Manager Ben Hollis 

e ben.hollis@minervapublications.co.uk 

d/l 01225 984503 

twitter: @LudlowMag 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie.thomson@minervapublications.co.uk 

Building in 

26 

conservation areas 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre-Press Manager Kate O’Connell 

Contributors Rebecca Rose, Peter Thomson, Sue Cooke, Matthew Biggs 

Angela Cave and Pete Lawrence. Front cover courtesy of Dobbies Garden Centres 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS HQ 

Paxcroft Farm, Hilperton 

Trowbridge BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

visit our website www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by failure of an 

advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions and 

misprints. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission from the 

publishers. The opinions expressed within are not necessarily those of the publishers. 

Then we are focusing on the 

garden - the hub of our social 

lives over the last few months! It’s 

also a necessary extension of our 

living space, so with that in mind 

we’ve gathered together lots of 

inspiration to help you perfect your 

space. 

Finally, we are bringing back our 

very popular competition page 

- this issue it has nearly £1,500 

worth of prizes! You can enter 

all the ones listed on the page, 

plus some web-exclusives at 

minervamagazines.co.uk - you 

can also opt into being the first to 

hear about new giveaways when 

they are launched. 

All that’s left for me to say is, enjoy 

this edition and keep on truckin’ - 

the end really is in sight. So, a big 

social-distanced-virtual-Zoom hug 

from us all at Minerva, and see you 

again in July. 

Katie 

Katie 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

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COMPETITION 

Time 

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To enter any (or all!) of our competitions, head to 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions. 

Find the competition and enter on that post, 

using the appropriate keyword. 

T&C’s apply and no cash alternatives available. Winners chosen at 

random - entries made after closing date will not be accepted. 

Char-Broil gas 

burner BBQ 

worth 

£719 

The high-performance sear burner positioned to the 

side perfects that really crispy crust - complete with 

professional grill strips on the outside. The grill is started by 

way of electronic SureFire ignition, at the touch of a button 

and without any open flame. Three low-consumption, upward facing highperformance 

stainless steel burners produce maximum, evenly distributed heat 

with low gas consumption. Find out more at www.charbroil.co.uk 

Closes 30/05/2021 - Competition keyword ‘CHAR’ 

Skincare and 

relaxtion goodies 

worth over 

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with an emphasis on emotional 

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natural, clean products that leave 

your skin radiant, nourished and 

your mind and body restored to 

perfect harmony. 

The winner will receive a special 

hamper containing the sleepy 

head collection, a Relaxing 

Body Oil and the Superfood 

Face Serum (worth £147) and 

two runners up will each receive 

the Bath Salt Collection (worth 

£67.50) 

At home or in the Cotswolds, 

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kits with everything else 

needed to create your 

stunning boho style 5 feather 

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Then visit Larkswold in the 

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their amazing scented candle 

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to enjoy and treat a friend. 

There are plenty of dates to 

choose from. 

Why not check out: 

www.larkswold.com for a full 

list of courses. 

£220 

worth of 

crafting 

workshops 

Closes 30/05/2021 - Competition 

keyword ‘COOPERS’ 


keyword ‘LARKSWOLD’ 

Baby mat and 

block play set 

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Winners will receive a mat worth £140 plus The Block 

Set (worth £80), perfect for honing 

those 

spatial, language, and problemsolving 

skills. See the full 

collection at uk.lovevery.com 

Closes 30/05/2021 - 

Competition 

keyword 

‘LOVEVERY’ 

Wage war on dirt, bacteria and odours in the 

home with the new Vax Platinum SmartWash. 

Scoring 99/100 in Good Housekeeping 

Institute’s carpet washing tests, it also 

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leaves carpets dry in as little as one hour. 

There is no trigger to press and hold down whilst 

cleaning, instead the motion sense technology 

automatically dispenses the correct mix of clean water 

and VAX Platinum Antibacterial Solution when you 

push forward to wash and dries when you pull back. 

Its FlexForce brush bars agitate the carpet to remove 

tough stains, dirt and spills, delivering a deep clean 

seven times more effective than vacuuming alone. 

Also included is a stretch hose, Spinscrub hand 

tool and 2-in-1 antimicrobial wash tool to deep 

clean and tackle above the floor stains on stairs, 

upholstery, in pet beds and in the car. 

We’ve got one to win worth £299.99 including a 

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keyword ‘VAX SMARTWASH’ 

VAX SmartWash 

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New independent 

restaurant, The 

Courtyard Chase Lounge 

set to open in May 

The Courtyard is thrilled to announce 

the opening of The Courtyard Chase 

Lounge, a brand-new independent 

restaurant, lounge bar and rooftop 

terrace... 

The Courtyard Chase Lounge has been 

created in partnership with Chase 

Distillery, who have invested in its 

development and supported in the design 

of the new space. 

Chase Distillery are a British field to bottle 

distillery, handcrafting an award-winning 

range of gins and vodkas from the 

potatoes grown on their farm in Hereford 

James Chase from Chase Distillery 

said “We are so proud to partner with 

The Courtyard, Herefordshire’s cultural 

and creative champion. Both of our 

companies roots are firmly based in 

this glorious county, and we can’t wait 

to enjoy a Chase cocktail in the newly 

refurbished lounge. From our distillery 

to their stage, roll on people returning to 

their seats!” 

The Courtyard Chase Lounge will be 

open initially from 5pm Thursday – 

Saturday and will be serving a mixture of 

small plates and traditional main dishes. 

Guests can relax and enjoy a cocktail in 

the setting of the stylish new bar area or 

go alfresco on the rooftop terrace before 

heading into the exclusive restaurant to 

sample a range of innovative small plates 

created by Head Chef Dale Williams. 

“We can’t wait to get back in the kitchen 

doing what we love - using local fresh 

ingredients to produce simple but 

tasty food, while also supporting our 

local suppliers.” Said Head Chef Dale 

Williams, “In these trying times it is ever 

so important we support each other. We 

look forward to welcoming people back in 

very soon!” 

The Courtyard’s Transform The Yard 

capital expansion project has also seen 

a complete renovation of the downstairs 

Café Bar, which now boasts an additional 

glass fronted space and an increased 

seating capacity. 

The Courtyard Café Bar will continue 

to serve quick, healthy meals and light 

bites throughout the day and remains an 

ideal space for lunch with friends, a work 

meeting or pre-show food and drink. 

The Café Bar will reopen to the public on 

Thursday 20 May from 10am. Tables will 

need to be booked in advance. 

The Courtyard are delighted to be hosting 

exclusive launch events on Thursday 20 

and Friday 21 May. Guests will have first 

look at the new Chase Lounge bar and 

restaurant and will be served tasters from 

the new food and drinks menus. There 

will be live entertainment and surprise 

free gifts. Tickets are on sale now at 

courtyard.org.uk. 

Following the launch night events, The 

Courtyard Chase Lounge will open to 

the public on Saturday 22 May with 

bookings being taken online from 

Wednesday 21 April. 


Midlands Air Ambulance 

Charity Celebrates 

30 Years of Lifesaving 

Service 

2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the 

rapid response, pre-hospital emergency 

service provided by Midlands Air 

Ambulance Charity... 

While the charity is facing up to a 40 per cent reduction in 

community fundraising income this year due to the pandemic, 

throughout 2021 Midlands Air Ambulance Charity will be running 

a series of activities to commemorate 30 years of providing 

advanced pre-hospital emergency care across the Midlands. 

As one of the first air ambulance services in the country, named 

‘Air5’ with just one helicopter flying out of a temporary airbase 

five days a week, Midlands Air Ambulance is proud of its 

heritage. The charity now has three helicopters and two critical 

care cars serving a population of six million people, and to date 

the service has responded to more than 63,000 missions. The 

critical care paramedics and doctors support land ambulance 

crews by bringing advanced skills, medicines and equipment to 

the incident scene, giving those critically ill and injured the best 

possible chance of survival and recovery. 

To mark the launch of ‘Air30’ is inviting you to take part in its 

Air30 Airbase Challenge to raise vital funds and make future 

missions possible. Visit midlandsairambulance.com/air30- 

airbase-challenge. 


In addition, the charity is introducing 30 ways* in which local 

people and businesses can support the lifesaving service. 

Hanna Sebright, chief executive for Midlands Air Ambulance 

Charity, states: “Air30 is an important milestone year for 

the charity, and while the past year has been exceptionally 

challenging for our charity in terms of increasing demand for the 

service and reduced fundraising income, we are determined to 

commemorate the year with the communities we serve. 

“As a result of the long term, loyal support we receive from 

people and businesses based within the local communities, we 

have been able to continue to develop our clinical expertise over 

the last 30 years. This includes increasing our doctor-led cover 

across the region and expanding our fleet of, which now includes 

three helicopters and two critical care cars, with advanced critical 

care paramedics and doctors treating patients in their critical hour 

of need.” 

To find out how you can help to fund a lifesaving mission with 

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and get involved with the Air30 

anniversary celebrations, please visit: 

midlandsairambulance.com and follow the organisation on 

social media. 


SCHOOL OPEN DAYS 

christ college 

11+ 13+ Scholarship Day, Saturday 8th May 

To book call 01874 615 440 or email admissions@ 

christcollegebrecon.com 

Christ College, Brecon is a co-educational, boarding and day 

independent school, located in the market town of Brecon in mid- 

Wales Bridge St, Llanfaes, Brecon LD3 8AF 

The Downs MALVERN 

Open day 27th May, 10-4pm 

To book please contact registrar on 01684 544108. 

www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk 

The Downs Malvern is an independent prep school. Founded in 

1900, it is located on a 55-acre site in Colwall in the County of 

Herefordshire, on the western slopes of the Malvern Hills. 

Brockhill Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 6EY 

Hereford Cathedral 

School 

Junior & Nursery enquiry@herefordcs.com 01432 363 511 

Senior & Sixth Form admissions@herefordcs.com 01432 363506 

Or register online at herefordcs.com 

Hereford Cathedral School is an independent, co-educational day 

and boarding school for pupils of ages 3 to 18 years, from Nursery 

to Sixth Form. Its headmaster is a member of the Headmasters’ and 

Headmistresses’ Conference. 

Virtual Junior & Nursery Open Morning 

Saturday 15 May from 10am 

Please book for a personal tour to see the school in action. 

Senior & Sixth Form School In Action Days 

Tuesday 4, Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 May 

Visit for family tours during a working school day 

Abberley Hall 

Saturday 12th June - from 10am 

To book, please visit www.abberleyhall.co.uk/admissions/open-days. 

1-2-1 tours throughout the Summer term and holidays are available. 

Abberley Hall is a happy and vibrant independent (private) boarding 

and day school for children aged 2-13 years in Worcestershire. 

Abberley Hall, Worcester WR6 6DD 

Bedstone college 

Friday 7th May & Saturday 8th May 

Parents can secure a place by contacting admissions@bedstone.org 

or calling 01547 530961. 

Bedstone College is a co-educational Independent day and boarding 

school in Shropshire. 

www.bedstonecollege.org 

Open 

days to 

inspire. 

PART OF 

THE MALVERN COLLEGE 

FAMILY OF SCHOOLS 

Visit The Downs Malvern and you’ll find exuberant, energised children 

passionate about life and learning: a passion that will help them release 

their talents and fulfil their ambitions. 

Open Day 27th May, 10am - 4pm. 

To find out more, or book a tour contact our Registrar on 

+44 (0)1684 544108 or visit 

thedownsmalvern.org.uk 

CO-EDUCATIONAL PREP SCHOOL 3-13YRS. DAY & BOARDING OPTIONS. 

#inspiredtolearn 



Launching into summer 

with eggs, eco-days and 

eccentricity 

Pupils at The Downs Malvern are 

brushing up their skills in drama, 

music, sport and video conferencing 

this summer… 

Summer term had a cracking start with 

“The Great Egg Launch”, the children 

having their ingenuity tested with a 

challenge to launch an egg the furthest 

distance without breaking it. 

They are also “launching” into another 

ambitious project this term: “Earth 

Awareness Day will be a truly global event 

for our pupils,” says Sarah McDonnell, 

Teacher of Year 4, “connecting them via 

video with schools around the world – 

including Germany, India and China. This 

is a wonderful opportunity to discover 

first-hand how children in other countries 

are affected by climate change and how 

everyone can play their part in tackling it.” 

The senior years are gearing up to 

perform a rendition of Lewis Carroll’s 

famously eccentric book “Through the 

Looking-Glass” on the school’s stateof-the-art 

stage – 2021 marks its 150th 

year in print – while the school’s many 

budding musicians will be rehearsing 

for, then performing, a series of music 

concerts. 

“Summer, of course, is the chance 

to make the very most of our superb 

outdoor sports and games facilities,” says 

Headmaster Alastair Cook, “and, as well 

as cricket for both boys and girls, the 

highlight – as ever – will be Sports 

Day. 

“While it’s the all-important final term of 

the academic year, all our children are 

given the opportunity to take part in a 

huge range of other activities that will 

enrich their education.” 

To learn more about The Downs Malvern, 

come along to the school’s Open Day on 

27th May: a fantastic opportunity to see 

first-hand many of the above activities. 

For more information contact our 

Registrar Mrs Katherine Cox on 

01684 544108, or email 

registrar@thedownsmalvern.org.uk. 


oarding orchard initiative 

Robin Fletcher explains 

Headmaster, staff and pupils at Rendcomb College, planting their Boarding Orchard tree 

When someone as respected as Sir David 

Attenborough warns, as he did when 

addressing the UN Security Council recently, 

that climate change could result in a global 

crisis comparable to the one which enveloped 

the world in the years after the First World 

War, you can’t ignore it. 

While the majority of the world’s main focus 

has understandably been on the fight against 

coronavirus for the past 12 months, it’s vital 

that we don’t lose sight of the threat posed 

by climate change. Climate change affects us 

all and it will be here long after COVID-19 has 

been brought under control. 

The Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) 

has long been championing the idea that our 

member schools can play an important role 

in tackling climate change. It’s a global issue, 

and as we have more than 600 members in 

36 countries around the world, our schools 

are uniquely well-placed to lead the way on 

sustainability and encourage the generations 

of students who will pass through their 

boarding houses in the coming years to help 

protect the environment throughout their lives. 

Back in 2014, the BSA launched the Boarding 

Orchard initiative, which encourages boarding 

schools to plant fruit trees in their grounds, 

symbolising growth and caring for the 

environment. Our aim is for it become to be 

the ‘largest’ orchard by geography anywhere 

in the world. 

12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

By involving students in tree planting, schools 

can also help to make environmentallyfriendly 

practices part of students’ ingrained 

behaviour from a very early age, helping to 

ensure they are fully aware how everything 

they do can affect the planet. And this will 

help leave a lasting legacy, with students 

imparting their knowledge to their own 

children so it is passed on from generation to 

generation. 

Our progress to date has been good. Since 

we launched the Boarding Orchard, more 

than 150 schools in the UK, Switzerland, 

Russia and the United States have planted 

more than 180 trees. The Boarding Orchard 

has also recently received the royal seal of 

approval. His Royal Highness, the Prince 

of Wales has long been a great supporter 

of a wide range of causes and projects 

relating to protecting the environment and 

sustainability. In late 2020, he lent his support 

to the BBC Countryfile programme’s ‘Plant 

Britain’ campaign, a two-year project which 

will see 750,000 trees planted. Following this, 

we contacted him to make him aware of our 

initiative. 

In a reply to BSA, a Clarence House 

spokesperson passed on the Prince’s 

‘warmest wishes for every success with the 

project’, calling the Boarding Orchard ‘an 

excellent way of promoting environmental 

awareness.’ 

With the Prince’s encouragement, and with 

more schools pledging their support by 

joining the Boarding Orchard, we’re very 

excited about its future. 

For more information about the BSA Boarding 

Orchard, please visit the BSA website: www. 

boarding.org.uk/440/national-boarding-week/ 

boarding-orchard 

Robin Fletcher, CEO, BSA and BSA Group

INDEPENDENT DAY & BOARDING EDUCATION 

FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 7-18 YEARS 

www.christcollegebrecon.com | 01874 615440 

admissions@christcollegebrecon.com 

11+13+ SCHOLARSHIP DAY 

SATURDAY 8 TH MAY 2021


Lucton school: making the most of 

lockdown opportunities 

By Michael Wolstenholme, Head of Sixth Form, Lucton School... 

Cameras on. Cameras off. Muted microphone. Volume issues. 

One minute shouting down my ear, the next far, far away, like a 

mouse in a wind tunnel. Virtual notebooks. Virtual assignments. 

Virtual whiteboards. There is no teacher, parent or student in the 

land that is not now fully acquainted with the realities of online 

learning. Here at Lucton Sixth Form, we implemented our Teams 

learning with great gusto and great success and used it as a 

chance to learn new skills, forge new connections and make the 

most of the opportunities presented to us. 

Indeed, now that we are back, it is clear to see our Sixth Formers 

have adopted that same mentality in person. Lucton Sixth 

Form is all about opportunities. Academically, we offer a wide 

range of A level subjects from Economics to Graphic Design, 

Further Maths to PE. Crucially; however, we give students the 

opportunity to express their views and engage with courses in 

small classes, where their opinions can be heard, discussed and 

debated. Good A Level learning focusses on inquisitiveness and 

discussion, and having teachers that know each student on an 

individual level really enhances that experience. However, it is not 

just in traditional A Levels that we offer our students opportunities 

to learn and grow. Our Extended Project Qualification, offers 

students the chance to select a specific topic of interest to them, 

whether this be the fall of Rome or the behaviour of quarks! In 

addition, we offer exciting BTEC qualifications in certain subjects. 

Nevertheless, academic opportunities are just one string to our 

bow. What we missed more than anything over lockdown was the 

ability to bring students together not only in the classroom but in 

sport, music and drama. 

As I look out now over the 

sports fields, I can see the 

distinctive red and black 

stripes engaging in a wide 

array of sports. Rugby, 

football, rounders, tennis, 

badminton, lacrosse, 

hockey, to name just a 

few, all get their place 

in the Lucton sporting 

calendar. Similarly, we 

have pianists and cellists, 

drummers and flutists 

across different musical 

disciplines - folk, rock, 

classical and choral. 

Perhaps the best 

indication of the 

opportunities afforded to 

Sixth Formers at Lucton 

comes through their own work, much of which is collated in 

their very own magazine - the Sixth Sense. Interviews, pet 

projects, art work, topics of interest, poetry and sports reports 

are all compiled by the Sixth Formers themselves, in our termly 

publication, which they then design and edit. It makes us all 

realise just how good the real world is, and just how much we 

should exploit the many opportunities that come our way! 

Bedstone Open Days 

Flexi-Boarding - Tailormade Tutoring - Industry Mentoring 

Career Pathways - Extended Days 

Please contact us to make your appointment for a one-to-one tour 

Bedstone College | Bucknell | Shropshire | SY7 0BG 

admissions@bedstone.org | 01547 530961 


Lucton 

School 

Founded 1708 

NURSERY - PREP - SENIOR - SIXTH FORM 

Lucton 

School 

Lucton, 

Herefordshire 

HR6 9PN 

CO-EDUCATIONAL 

luctonschool 

luctonschoolherefordshire 

luctonschool 

Day | Boarding | Flexi-Boarding 

01568 782 000 

www.luctonschool.org 

admissions@luctonschool.org


meeting Michael and look forward to 

welcoming him to Hereford in the coming 

weeks.” 

Dr Gray was selected from an extremely 

strong field of over 50 applicants. Chair of 

Governors, Rear Admiral Philip Wilcocks, 

who led the interview panel said “We 

were extremely impressed with Michael’s 

vision for Hereford Cathedral School and 

his undoubted commitment to developing 

yet further the quality of teaching and 

learning across the whole school. 

FROM HARROW TO HEREFORD: 

DR MICHAEL GRAY APPOINTED 

AS HEADMASTER OF HEREFORD 

CATHEDRAL SCHOOL 

Rear Admiral Philip Wilcocks, Chair of 

Governors at Hereford Cathedral School, 

has announced that following a thorough 

selection process, Dr Michael Gray of 

Harrow School will succeed Paul Smith as 

Headmaster of the co-educational day and 

boarding school. 

“The Governors wish to also pay tribute 

to Mr Smith as he continues to provide 

outstanding leadership to the School, 

especially in these challenging times. 

Michael is clearly excited and energised 

by our future plans and the panel were 

unanimous in their view that he is the 

right person to be a worthy successor 

of Paul.” 

The School looks forward to welcoming 

Dr Gray and his wife Angharad to the 

community in a few months’ time. 

Find out more at www.herefordcs.com 

Dr Gray, who is currently Director of 

Studies at Harrow School, graduated 

from King’s College London with a First 

in History, after which he completed 

a PGCE, followed by a Masters and 

PhD at the UCL Institute of Education. 

Michael taught at Halliford School in 

Shepperton and St Edward’s School, 

Oxford, before joining Harrow in 2013 

as Head of Politics. He subsequently 

became Academic and Universities 

Director before taking up his appointment 

as Director of Studies in 2019 with overall 

responsibility for all academic matters at 

Harrow. 

Commenting on his appointment, Dr Gray 

said “I am both delighted and honoured 

to be appointed the next Headmaster of 

Hereford Cathedral School and to build 

on the fantastic work that Paul Smith 

has done. It is an extremely exciting time 

to join HCS and there is an impressive 

momentum across the School as we 

look to realise Vision 2030 and ensure 

that all pupils are equipped to thrive in a 

changing world. 

“My wife and I are relishing the prospect 

of moving to the beautiful county of 

Herefordshire and to join this wonderful 

community in one of the UK’s leading 

independent co-educational schools.” 

Alongside his teaching career, Dr Gray 

has published two books and several 

articles on Holocaust education. He is 

also a Fellow of the Chartered College 

of Teaching and Chair of Governors at 

Elmgrove School, one of the largest 

state primary schools in London. He is 

Secretary at his local church where he 

and his wife Angharad worship. 

Dr Gray will take over when Paul Smith 

steps down from his role in September 

2021 after 16 years at the helm. Mr 

Smith gave a ringing endorsement of his 

successor’s appointment: “I am delighted 

that the Governors have appointed 

Michael, who is clearly very able and 

experienced and who seemed to me to 

be an excellent match for what Hereford 

Cathedral School needs for the next 

stage of its development. I have enjoyed 


Arrive with promise 

Become your potential 

Senior & Sixth Form 

SCHOOL IN ACTION DAYS 

TUESDAY 4 MAY - THURSDAY 6 MAY 

Visit us on a working school day to discover an education that is focused on the individual. 

A school where pupils are encouraged to set their sights high, feel valued for who they are 

and become their full potential. 

REGISTER 

ONLINE 

TODAY 

Contact us: 

01432 363506 

admissions@herefordcs.com 

• Pupils enjoy a broad, varied and exciting curriculum through 

an all-round holistic approach to academic and personal 

development. 

• Pupils across the ability range are stretched, both academically 

and through their extra-curricular interests. 

• Exceptional remote learning and enrichment programmes 

ensure learning and development continue through challenging 

times. 

HEREFORDCS.COM

Independence 

Does any parent of a four-year-old know 

what their child will need from their 

senior school at 13? With the landscape 

of independent schools changing as prep 

schools become affiliated with senior schools, 

the value of true independence in a prep 

school has never been more relevant... 

A satisfying and important facet of my job is advising parents 

on the right senior school for their child. This decision can be 

bewildering but truly independent prep schools, such as Moor 

Park, build strong relationships with the full range of senior 

schools countrywide. This means I can give objective and 

unbiased advice, focusing entirely on the needs of each child and 

their family. 

Our ability to respond swiftly and decisively to change, challenge 

and opportunity is a huge benefit. We have shaped our curriculum 

and teaching to prepare children, deliberately, for a fast-changing 

world and in this process, I have only answered to those in the 

Moor Park community, making development more dynamic. 

True independence, therefore, is something for us to celebrate as, 

together, we plot the most appropriate route for each individual 

child and family. 

X Marks the Spot 

Monday 31st May - Friday 4th June 

1pm - 2.30pm. 

If you find a pirate’s map you need to be able to 

find where the treasure has been hidden. 

With fun and games learn how to find north, 

read a compass and a map and then use those skills 

in the meadows to do some orienteering and 

follow clues to find the x spot. 

£4 per accompanied 4 - 11 year old. 

Book to avoid disappointment. 

Pirate Meadow Trail 

A rowboat lands at kingfisher corner and you 

can’t believe your eyes – two pirates step ashore. 

You hear them talking about stealing some of the 

mammoth bones! What will you do? 

Take part in the meadow pirate choice story 

and decide what will happen next. 

£1 per adventure map. 

Available throughout May Half Term. 

Charlie Mingoue, Headmaster of Moor Park 

Moor Park 

Richards Castle, Ludlow SY8 4DZ 

www.moorpark.org | 01584 876 061 


01588 676 060 

www.shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre.co.uk 


Ludlow Kitchen & 

The Clive re-opening 

We look forward to welcoming you! 

From 12th April Ludlow Kitchen will be opening its 

outside seating area for outdoor dining everyday! 

From 17th May Ludlow Kitchen & The Clive Arms 

will be opening to serve indoors as well as 

outdoors. 

The Clive Arms 

From the 17th May you can book rooms as usual and our 

dining room will be open Wednesday - Saturday 

4.30pm – 9pm & 12pm-3pm on Sundays. 

Visit our website to see menus 

Ludlow Kitchen 

From the 17th May we will be open 7 days a week, 

8am-4.30pm serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and cake! 

HAVE A COFFEE ON US 

We have really appreciated your support during 

the past year - please come and have a coffee on us! 

Valid until end of June 2021at Ludlow Kitchen 

Bring this voucher with you to redeem your coffee 

Bromfield, Shropshire, SY8 

2JR 01584 856 000 

www.ludlowfarmshop.co.uk 

www.theclive.co.uk

BACK TO Basics 

Perfect egg recipes for every 

chef’s repertoire - all from the 

egg-sperts...Clarence Court 

Now, first things first - you need to 

nail the basics - that is, perfect runny 

poached eggs and dippy boiled eggs. 

Always start with the freshest possible 

eggs, then... 

PERFECTLY POACHED 

Two must do tips before you start - add 

at least 1 tsp light coloured vinegar to 

your water. The second is to sieve your 

egg. When you crack an egg you’ll notice 

that there’s a firmer white and a more 

liquidy white. Well, that liquidy white is 

what creates all those white wispy bits. 

So add the egg to a fine mesh sieve/ 

strainer and the thinner, more liquid white 

is removed, leaving only the firmer white 

which will envelop the yolk. 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then 

reduce to low (or turn off the heat). Crack 

the egg in a fine mesh sieve (over a small 

bowl) and remove the liquidy whites. For 

a firm white and runny yolk you’ll want to 

poach the eggs for 3-4 minutes. 

DELIGHTFULLY DIPPY 

The timing here is based on using room 

temperature eggs. For a set white with a 

runny yolk, you want to boil for four-five 

minutes. Poke a hole in the top of the 

eggs with a needle or egg-puncher before 

you start. 

THOMAS FRAKE’S 

PORK HOLSTEIN 

Holstein usually uses white veal, but you 

can use pork, chicken or turkey. This 

recipe uses tenderised pork loin, breaded 

and fried in butter until golden, and then 

finished with chopped anchovies and 

capers in butter. A Braddock White egg 

is essential to finishing the dish as it 

provides a rich golden yolk that becomes 

the luxurious sauce. 

Preparation time: 30 minutes 

Cooking time: 12 minutes 

Serves: 2 

INGREDIENTS 

2 pork loin steaks 

100g flour 

1 Clarence Court egg 

100g Panko breadcrumbs 

25g parmesan, grated 

50g salted butter 

25ml rapeseed oil 

4 Clarence Court Braddock White Duck 

eggs 

4 anchovies, finely chopped 

20g capers 

Ingredients for the pickled cabbage: 

¼ white cabbage 

½ Bramley apple 

90ml white wine vinegar 

30g sugar 

10g fennel seeds 

METHOD 

Bring the vinegar, sugar and fennel seeds 

to the boil and remove from the heat. 

Finely shred the cabbage and apple and 

submerge into the vinegar. Leave to cool, 

then refrigerate. 

Flatten the pork with a rolling pin until 

5mm thick. Grate parmesan into the 

breadcrumbs. Dredge the pork in flour, 

then egg, then breadcrumbs, and repeat. 

In a deep frying pan, heat the butter and 

rapeseed oil on a mid-low heat until 

foaming. Fry the pork for 3 minutes a side, 

or until golden and crisp, being careful 

not to burn. Remove from the frying pan 

to a tray, spoon over some of the hot 

butter,and keep warm in a low oven. 

Fry the eggs in a little oil until the white is 

cooked but the yolk is still liquid. 

Add the pork Holstein to the plate, spoon 

over the capers and very finely chopped 

anchovies. Add the fried egg on top and 

the pickled cabbage alongside. 

FRESH EGG PASTA 

DOUGH 

You can either eat it straightaway or air dry 

a batch and then store it in an airtight jar 

for another day. To make a truly rich and 

bright pasta dough, use only egg yolks 

(not the whites) in the dough, at a ratio of 2 

egg yolks to 100g Tipo 00 pasta flour. 

INGREDIENTS 

4 Large Burford Brown eggs 

400g Tipo 00 pasta flour 

METHOD 

If using a food processor, crack in the 

eggs and tip in the pasta flour. Pulse a 

few times until it comes together like thick 

breadcrumbs. If it’s looking quite dry add 

a tiny splash of water or olive oil and pulse 

a couple more times. Tip the dough out on 

a clean work surface and knead well for a 

few minutes until it feels springy and quite 

firm. Shape the dough into a disc and 

wrap in cling film, and then place in the 

fridge to rest for around an hour. 

If you’re making the dough by hand, 

make a mound of flour on a clean work 

surface and then make a well in the 

flour. Crack the eggs into the middle 

and use a dinner knife to incorporate 

the flour gently into the centre and 

whisk it into the eggs. Continue mixing 

in the flour and then use your hands to 

combine everything together and form 

a rough dough. If it’s feeling a little dry 

just sprinkle over a little water or olive 

oil and start kneading. Knead well for a 

few minutes until the dough feels springy 

and quite firm. Shape into a disc as 

before. The dough is now ready for you 

to roll and shape as you prefer. 


ENTERTAINING 

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& UPSTAIRS 

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* OPEN Tuesday to Saturday * 

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Plot 1, Station Yard, Station Road, 

Woofferton, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 4AW 


ADD SOFTNESS 

The modern garden should 

cry out to be sat in - it 

should cosset and relax 

- like an extension of the 

living room. To achieve 

this, it’s important to 

add soft elements. 

Remembering that on 

the whole, gardens 

are hard spaces in their 

bones - but by layering 

textiles, materials and 

different seating options, we 

can create something really 

rather special. 

As 

well as textiles, 

take care to 

look at the ways your 

hard landscaping interacts with 

your soft landscaping - that is, 

your decking, patio, walls with 

your planting and lawns. Lots 

of texture and softness can be 

added with the careful selection 

of plants and trees - you want 

movement in the wind and tactile 

elements. 

HOW CAN YOUR GARDEN 

GROW 

In these strange and unprecedented times, our gardens 

have never been more important. They have been the 

meeting place of family and friends and a real saviour in the 

face of so much difficulty. Whether you have green fingers 

or black thumbs, we have lots of inspiration for your space 

and ways to make it work harder for you! 

IDEAS FOR 

SMALL GARDENS 

Small gardens have a lot more potential than you may 

appreciate. Whether dealing with a long narrow space 

behind a period home, a cramped backyard that lacks 

privacy, or even a little courtyard, the possibilities are 

endless. So don’t write off your small outdoor area just yet... 

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO GROW? 

Are you hoping to grow cut flowers, your favourite herbs, 

or a few vegetables? When space is limited, it is especially 

important to determine which of these are worth growing 

yourself, and which are better to purchase seasonally from 

your local farmer’s market or shop. Focus on growing 

flowers and produce that are usually expensive, hard to 

find, have a short shelf life, or you use regularly. 

CREATE SEATING WITHIN BORDERS 

A great idea is to add seating to the edges of raised beds 

- it makes otherwise unused space a flexible element for 

socialising. Sleepers are a great option, or patio slabs on 

small diving walls. Have a folding bistro table on hand to 

create a dining area where needed. 

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX 

What about vertical gardens? Railing planters? Hanging 

baskets for strawberries? 

Images, left to right from top: Mudcloth Cushion and Anouk Cushion, 

from £35 www.hauslife.co.uk; Chair, £279.99 from shop.sueryder. 

org; Outdoor Rug, £59.95, Cuckooland; Verano Lounger, £479 from 

Danetti; Outdoor Cushions, £25 each from Ragged Rose 

Image from Go 

Modern Furniture 


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*Terms and Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation 

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GREAT PRODUCTS P A5 v1.indd 1 03/11/2020 12:54

CREATE PRIVACY 

You may not have room for large 

evergreen trees and shrubs to create 

privacy. But, would a row of one of the 

many columnar varieties that provide 

height—without the width—work? If only 

seasonal screening is needed, perhaps 

narrow, columnar, deciduous trees or 

shrubs would be suitable? Or perhaps 

growing well-behaved climbers (e.g. 

jasmine or annual vines) on a vertical 

trellis would be the best solution. 

ADD A WATER FEATURE 

Water features are always a great 

addition to a garden. While a pond and 

waterfall may not be realistic, a simple 

recirculating wall fountain or bubbling 

tabletop pot may be the answer. 

MAKE EVERY SQUARE INCH 

COUNT 

Focus on high-value trees, shrubs, and 

perennials that offer multiple seasons of 

interest with attractive leaves, seasonal 

flowers, unique textures, colourful bark 

and/or great autumnal colour. 

CREATE SECTIONS 

The garden to the right has three 

sections, all with clear individual 

purposes – making the space feel bigger 

because of the multifunctional uses. The 

top level features a patio, which is bathed 

in morning sunshine. A central seating 

area made for socialising and the bottom 

deck houses a water feature. Then there’s 

the homeowner’s ‘she shed’. 

KEEP THE COLOUR PALETTE 

SIMPLE 

Two or three colours in varying shades, 

together with green, will be less visually 

cluttered than a jelly-bean-like explosion. 

CREATE A SENSE OF ORDER 

Clean lines bring an orderly feel to the 

garden. A clear rectilinear design can 

define spaces, while flowing organic 

curves can be used to soften awkward 

angles. 

USE THE DIAGONAL AXIS 

A typical new build garden is often wide 

but shallow. Looking straight across the 

back garden therefore emphasises the 

shortest dimension. Alter the perspective 

by turning the patio, planting beds, and 

sight lines 45-degrees to line up with the 

Image from Colin Poole 

diagonal axis, creating the illusion of a 

much larger space. 

LOOK FOR COMPACT PLANTS 

Choose plants that won’t overwhelm 

the ground plane, but don’t be afraid to 

include moderate sized or columnar trees 

to achieve the appropriate scale. 

Image from Moda 

Furnishings 

SOCIABLE 

SEATING 

Image from Dobbies 

Corner sofas are a great addition to the garden, 

extending the feel of living space outside. We 

love options with room to lounge, but also those 

with interchangeable tables which allow for 

dining, making the space more versatile. Opt for 

neutral colours and style with cushions so you 

can freshen up the look any time. 

To increase the usability of the space through 

the year and into the cooler evenings, some 

element of heating is wise. We love the options 

from Moda Furnishings, which have either gas 

fireplaces within the table, or the pure theatre 

of an inset grill and corresponding ice bucket 

for drinks - you need never leave the table! 

Patio heaters have also come a long way in 

design and functionality. 


Everything for your house and garden - and more 

• Bedding Plants • Shrubs • Perennials 

• Trees • Fruits • Roses 

• Seeds • Compost • Pots • Fencing 

• Chemicals • Tools 

• Free Local Delivery 

• David Austin varieties grown under licence 

• Stockists of Hillier Plants 

Email: ludlow.homecare@btconnect.com 

Ludlow Homecare Ltd 

Ludford Bridge, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 1PE 

Tel 01584 874554 / 876042 Fax 01584 873285 

Do you want to make money while 

heating your home sustainably? 

Ludlow Stoves & Renewables have the answer. 

We can offer Air & Ground Source heating, biomass 

either as a cooker, room heater or utility boiler to suit 

your needs. 

The current Renewable Heating incentive is available 

until March 2022 and qualifying customers will gain 

7 years of payments. 

We also offer stoves, boilers, gas and electric stoves. 

Come and have a look at over 50 stoves which are 

already SIA ready. 

Please call in or give us a call for further details: 

01584 878552 

info@ludlowstoves.co.uk 

GREEN HOMES GRANTS 

available up to £10,000 

*subject to T & Cs 

Ludlow Stoves Ltd 

85 Gravel Hill, Ludlow 

Shropshire SY8 1QU 


BUILDING IN A 

CONSERVATION 

AREA 

Just because your home 

is not listed, does not 

mean there might be 

restrictions in place from 

Conservation Area laws. 

Here the HomeOwners 

Alliance tell us what 

we should be aware 

of if planning home 

improvements which may 

fall outside of permitted 

development... 

WHAT IS A CONSERVATION 

AREA? 

These are designated areas of historic 

and architectural interest in which there 

are legal restrictions on what changes 

can be made to buildings, greenery and 

street furniture in order to preserve the 

unique character of the place. The first 

conservation areas were established in 

1967 and now there are around 10,000 in 

the UK including estates, parks, stretches 

of canal, historic town centres and some 

entire villages. 

The precise restrictions on what you can 

do will vary according to the rules set 

by your local authority and the nature 

of the area they are trying to protect. 

For example in some areas the rules 

might prevent changes to railings, street 

lighting, trees, windows, right down to the 

colour of paint that residents are allowed 

to use on their front doors. 

WHAT ARE THE PLANNING RE- 

STRICTIONS FOR HOMES IN A 

CONSERVATION AREA? 

Local authorities place extra restrictions 

on properties within conservation areas 

known as ‘Article 4 Directions’. These 

limit the changes that home owners 

would otherwise be able to make to their 

properties under their normal ‘permitted 

development rights’. These rights govern 

the home improvements that property 

owners are usually allowed to make 

without requiring planning permission. 

If you live in a conservation area, these 

automatic rights are more limited. 

You should speak to your local planning 

authority and look on its website in order 

to find out what specific restrictions apply 

to the conservation area that you live in. 

However the general rules are that you 

cannot, without permission, demolish: 

• A building that is more than 115 

cubic metres 

• A gate, wall or fence that is over 1 

metre if it borders the road or higher 

than 2 metres if not. 

You would also need permission for the 

following alterations 

• A single storey extensions that 

extend more than 3 metres beyond 

the back wall of the house or 4 

metres if the house is detached 

• Extensions greater than one storey 

“Local authorities place extra restrictions on 

properties within conservation areas known as 

‘Article 4 Directions’. These limit the changes that 

home owners would otherwise be able to make to 

their properties under their normal ‘permitted 

development rights’.” 

• Side extensions 

• Roof extensions or alterations 

• Cladding in any material 

• Any new construction of sheds, 

outbuildings, swimming pools. 

• The installation of chimneys, flues 

or vents at the front of the house or 

at the side if it faces the road 

• Installing satellite dishes or 

antennae that face the road. 

• Fitting solar panels to the front 

of the roof facing the street than 

150mm from the roof slope. 

• Fitting solar panels that protrude by 

more than 150mm from the roof 

In addition your local authority may 

have imposed specific rules on the 

conservation area that you live in so it 

is vital to check these. Such rules could 

prevent you from: 

• Replacing original windows or 

doors 

• Altering the guttering or pipes 

• Felling trees or shrubs 

• Painting the facade or changing the 

colour of window frames and doors 

WHERE CAN I GET ADVICE 

ON CARRYING OUT BUILDING 

WORK WITHOUT BREAKING 

THE RULES? 

Speak to your local planning authority at 

an early stage and talk through your plans 

to find out if they are likely to require 

planning permission. If you do need to 

apply for permission, you could get your 

builder, architect or a planning consultant 

to submit an application on your behalf. 

Find out more at www.hoa.org.uk 


Welcome Back! 

We have been busy over the past few 

months creating an enchanting new 

courtyard! Flourishing with colour and 

garden accessories, this gorgeous new 

space is a haven of beautiful pieces for 

any outdoor space. 

Our brand new website is 

now live! 

Twojays Corner Antiques 

Unit 21c, Lamledge Lane Industrial Estate, 

Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8SD 

wilstone.com 01694 751747 

Andrew’s Building Conser 

Are you wondering what 

ABC Ltd is a Shro 

Building Surveyi 

Traditional buildings can be a pleasure or a money pit 

when 

Could 

adapting 

a diversification 

or repairing them. 

of the provides a comp 

A pragmatic 

building’s 

and simple of services to m 

use approach be a long is usually term therefore sustainable the best investment? policy. encourage the u 

Andrew’s to do with Building that old building? Conservation Ltd 

Tel: 07949 385618 

Email: info@twojayscorner.com 

www.twojayscorner.com 

www.antiques-atlas.com/twojayscornerantiques 

Andrew is an ex 

Chartered Build 

manager. Specia 

historic building 

undertaking sta 

ABC Ltd is a Shropshire based Chartered 

Andrew’s Building Conservation Ltd 

Andrew’s Building Conservatio 


to do with that old building? 


Could a diversification of the building’s provides a comprehensive range 

to do with that old ABC Ltd is a Shropshire ba 

of 

building? 

services to maintain, adapt, and 

use be a long term sustainable investment? 

Building Surveying Compa 

encourage the use of all buildings. 

Find the perfect piece for your home or garden Could a diversification of the building’s provides a comprehensive 

BSc(Hons) Dip 

of services to maintain, ad 

ABC use Ltd be is a long Shropshire term Andrew based sustainable Chartered is an experienced, investment? Building Surveying self-motivated encourage the use of all bu 

Company that provides Chartered a comprehensive Contact Building Andrew range Surveyor of services and 0345 project to 1161381 

maintain, adapt and encourage manager. the Specialising use of all and buildings. qualified andrew@andrewsbuild 

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Andrew is an experienced, historic self-motivated building’s conservation, Chartered Building Chartered Building Survey 

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but also 

Surveyor and project manager. undertaking Specialising standard and surveying qualified manager. work. in Specialising and 

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Why not give Andrew a no obligation call to discuss 

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All projects considered 

both large and small. 

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Andrew Shenton 

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www.andrewsbuildingconse 


Top tips to step back to normality 

Dr Hilary Jones provides useful tips regarding moving forward during the pandemic 

Many of us have spent the past year in the 

comfort of our own homes, establishing 

a work routine from our bedrooms or 

living rooms, adapting exercise and diet 

regimes, and finding alternative ways to 

communicate with friends and family. 

Lockdown created a welcome slow-down 

for many people, allowing us to reflect on 

our fast-paced lives and spend more time 

looking after ourselves. As restrictions 

gradually ease and more freedoms are 

granted, it may lead you to feel conflicting 

emotions, so to help during this confusing 

time, I have provided my top tips to step 

back into normality, including: 

Go at your own pace 

Take time for yourself 

Reconnect with loved ones 

Get enough sleep 

Put your health first and get regular check 

ups 

Although friends and family may be 

excited for their COVID bubbles to burst 

as measures begin to loosen, it is normal if 

you feel overwhelmed and anxious at the 

thought of slowly returning back to your 

hectic pre-COVID life. 

My top tip 

Try to take each step at a time - you don’t 

have to jump straight back into your old 

routine. If going on a walk is enough for 

one day, stick with it, but try to build on 

this every day. Perhaps meet up with 

a friend or grab a coffee from the local 

shop - stepping out of your comfort zone, 

gradually and responsibly, can help reestablish 

a routine that works for you. 

Take time for yourself 

As we adjust to yet another big change, 

it’s more important than ever to look after 

28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

ourselves and take note of how we are 

feeling. You may think you have taken too 

much time for yourself over the last year, 

however, as life picks up its pace again, 

it is likely you will crave more me-time, 

so be conscious to allow yourself these 

moments. 

My top tip 

Think about an activity that is just for 

you – for example reading a book before 

bed, taking a bath, or watching a movie. 

Practising mindfulness by taking 5 minutes 

every day to focus on your breath is an 

exercise that can help you feel relaxed, 

ease anxiety and enable you to focus on 

the present, giving yourself the time that 

you need. 

Reconnect with loved ones 

Communicating with others can help keep 

our spirits up, lessen feelings of isolation 

and anxiety, and make new memories. 

The pandemic has made it difficult for 

the majority of us to connect with friends 

and family, with most interaction having 

taken place at a social distance or behind 

a screen, so it is an exciting feeling being 

able to reunite with those close to you once 

more. 

My top tip 

As you begin to reconnect with your loved 

ones, be attentive to any changes in their 

health - you are much more likely to notice 

any changes than they are, especially if 

you haven’t seen them for a while. Have 

you noticed your family member or friend 

having difficulty following the conversation, 

for example? Then suggest they get their 

hearing tested - Hidden Hearing’s 5-minute 

online hearing test – available at www. 

campaignforbetterhearing.co.uk can 

provide an immediate insight into how well 

they are hearing. 

Thanks to the support of The National 

Campaign for Better Hearing, you or your 

loved one could be nominated to receive a 

top of the range hearing aid. 

Get enough sleep 

You will probably find your sleeping pattern 

change as our day-to-day activities get 

busier. Going back to work, doing more 

exercise and socialising will have a bigger 

impact on our energy levels than we might 

think, so getting enough rest is key. 

My top tip 

Try to stick to a regular sleeping routine, 

going to sleep and waking up at a similar 

time each day, and aim for at least eight 

hours sleep a night. If you struggle to get 

some shut eye, reduce screen time, avoid 

caffeine before bed and exercise regularly. 

Put your health first by having 

regular check ups 

Your health may have taken a backseat 

during the pandemic, and you may not 

have had your regular health checks, such 

as going to the dentist or getting your 

eyesight and hearing tested. However, 

it is important to take the initiative and 

book these appointments so that you can 

fully enjoy life’s magical moments postlockdown. 

My top tip 

As restrictions ease and summer comes 

along, you want to be able to absorb your 

senses to feel connected to the world 

around you once more – including hearing 

the birds outside, people watching in the 

bustling streets, and ordering that long 

awaited drink at your local pub. Prioritise 

your hearing health by booking a free 

hearing test at your local Hidden Hearing 

centre - call 0800 037 2060 or visit www. 

hiddenhearing.co.uk/hidden-hearing

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BMW M440i 

XDrive 

Motoring Journalist Sue Cooke 

test drives the new powerful and 

exhilarating BMW M4401... 

I drove to a business meeting this week 

which took around an hour and I wish it 

had taken longer. The journey meant a 

little motorway cruising, a few twisting 

country lanes and inevitably at rush hour 

time, a few stationary traffic queues. It 

was the perfect opportunity to experience 

the new BMW 4 series coupe which I was 

road testing and which caused quite a 

stir of interest on arrival at my meeting, 

observing social distancing of course. In 

fact, this coupe has caused quite a stir 

all week. 

Mainly, because it looks so stunning, 

with its lower, wider, new exterior. There 

are short overhangs, slender pillars and 

long two doors with frameless windows. 

The aggressively styled LED adaptive 

headlights which had BMW laser light 

provided fantastic vision during the predawn 

part of my drive. Non dazzling high 

beam assistant is an option. The M sport 

model adds a striking rear apron and 

large outer air intakes at the front. The 4 

series is also available as a convertible. 

Judging from the interest shown by 

business colleagues, the 4 series coupe 

will be a popular fleet car. Its seductive 

looks, engaging drive and beautiful cabin, 

makes it a car that drivers will be happy 

to get into and reluctant to get out of. 

As soon as I slid behind the wheel, I felt 

I was in a very special place. Sculptured 

leather seats have shapely side bolsters 

which fit perfectly and give support 

during hard cornering. The heady smell 

of leather and the quality trim enhances 

that elite feeling and the technology 

surprises. A seat belt arm appeared at my 

right shoulder and handed me the seat 

belt. I pressed the stop start button, the 

engine quietly fired and all the dials and 

indicators moved and lit up. 

Engage reverse and the wing mirrors dip 

for easier views of the tarmac. 

Steering wheel controls enable the 

driver to not just change the volume 

on the DAB digital radio, but to change 

the mode. There is a very long list of 

standard specification and then you add 

the options which on my road test car 

included visibility pack, technology plus 

pack, shadowline plus and comfort plus. 

There is a new dashboard featuring digital 

instruments and a heavily upgraded 

infotainment system with BMW’s latest 

ID7 operating system. 

For practicality, there is an array of 

storage areas and the boot space has 

increased to 440 litres. Passengers told 

me that rear seating is spacious and 

comfortable. 

The 4 series has a choice of turbocharged 

petrol and diesel engines, all belonging to 

the Efficient Dynamics family. There are 

upgraded driver assistance technologies 

and even greater efficiencies from the 

introduction of mild hybrid technology 

with a 48V starter generator. The M440i 

xDrive has a powerful six cylinder in line 

petrol engine which links with an eight 

speed Steptronic transmission. Intelligent 

all wheel drive features as standard on 

the six cylinder. 

Power is instant and as the car surged 

forward, I felt as if I was gliding on a 

cushion of air with effortless steering. 

Brakes are excellent. 

The BMW M440i xDrive is priced from 

£53,875 otr., but for the sometimes 

calming and sometimes exhilarating 

feelings this coupe engenders it is well 

worth every penny. 

Facts at a Glance 

Model: BMW M440i xDrive 

Price: Starts from £53,875 

Engine: 3 litre turbocharged petrol with 

374hp and peak torque of 500Nm 

Performance: 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds 

and on to a top speed of 155 mph 

CO2 emissions: 163-155 g/km 

Combined fuel consumption: 39.8- 

41.5mpg 


THE FUTURE STARTS 

HERE. MEET THE 4. 

AVAILABLE TO TEST DRIVE*. 

For generations, BMW has evolved in technology 

and dynamics. The 4 marks a new chapter in the 

journey, nodding to the past while embracing 

innovation and heralding a bright future. With 

the impressive new vertical kidney grille, which 

features an elegant mesh design within the 

reimagined grille, the all-new BMW 4 Series 

Coupe has taken a giant leap in redefining its 

character. Like many iconic BMW models of the 

past, it’s a sign of great things to come. The 

BMW 4 Series has been awarded carwow Car of 

the Year ‘Best Coupe Car’. 

THE WAIT IS OVER. 

THE NEXT GENERATION BMW M4 HAS ARRIVED IN SHREWSBURY. 

CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT MORE. 

Rybrook BMW Shrewsbury 

01743 467467 | rybrookshrewsburybmw.co.uk 

Fuel economy and CO2 results for the BMW 4 Series Coupé range: Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 36.2 (7.8) to 61.4 (4.6). CO 2 

emissions: 178-121 g/km. 

M4 competition Saloon : Mpg (l/100km) (Combined) 28.0 (10.1) - 28.2 (10.0). CO2 emissions : 231 – 228g/km. Figures shown are for comparability 

purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real 

life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles 

and vehicle load. The CO2 figures shown above have been determined according to the WLTP test. WLTP has been used as the applicable CO2 figure 

from 1 April 2020 for first year vehicle tax (VED) and from 6 April 2020 for company car tax (BIK). The CO2 figures were previously based on the NEDC 

equivalent. *Test drives will be dependent on current government advice and availability.

Ludlow Lifestyle May - Jun 2021

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