10 - 2024 | Chalmers News PR

Family cidery celebrates huge Ocado deal

Posted on October 22, 2024 by admin

Charlotte and Jolyon Olivier at Napton Cidery

The husband and wife owners of a south Warwickshire cidery which began life in their back garden 10 years ago, are celebrating a lucrative new deal with Ocado.

The signature range of drinks from Jolyon and Charlotte Olivier’s Napton Cidery can now be purchased through the giant online grocery retailer which delivers to 80% of the UK population.

The brand has also just been accepted on the inaugural Ocado Roots Programme, developed to showcase 100 new ‘challenger brands’ within the retailer’s range, available to small suppliers who are not yet listed with other major supermarkets.

It offers bespoke onboarding and training, faster payment terms, support from a dedicated Ocado Roots team and support network and free data from Ocado’s insights tool.

Napton Cidery, Ocado — Adam Taylor of Napton Cidery with Rich Bunting, Buying Manager for Beer and Cider at Ocado

Drinks now available to purchase are 500ml Recipe No. 3 Slightly Sparkling 6% vol Smooth Dry Cider; Recipe No. 4 Slightly Sparkling 5.4% vol Bold Medium Cider; Recipe No. 5 Slightly Sparkling 3.4% vol Blackcurrant Cider; and Recipe No. 6 Slightly Sparkling 4.6% vol Refreshing Cider.

It’s a particularly proud moment for its owners Jolyon and Charlotte Olivier, whose, now multi-award-winning, business was inspired by a holiday in Cornwall.

Jolyon Olivier said: “When we began making cider from the apple tree in our back garden 10 years ago, we never imagined we would have it sold on Ocado, but it’s something we have worked really hard towards.

“This is an amazing stepping stone in the growth and expansion of Napton Cidery and we are so proud to have gotten to this stage as a small family-run business without ever compromising our values.

“We’ve managed to go from pressing 2,000 litres in 2015 to now producing over our 250,000 pints per year working alongside the natural environment rather than against it.

“Looking back at our origins and where we are today feels surreal, but incredible. We look forward to building a long-term relationship with Ocado.”

Ocado, Napton Cidery

Today, the team, in Napton on the Hill, produces cider from six orchards across the Herefordshire region. They also produce barrel aged limited-edition ciders as well as gold medal-winning perry, apple brandy and vinegars.

Central to Napton’s growing popularity among customers is its strong sustainability ethos, from harvesting through to packaging. All of their fruit comes form bio-diverse and organic orchards and never made form concentrate. This helps support British farming and encourages a natural habitat for local wildlife. The sustainable packaging is 100% recyclable and all our power on the farm is generated from renewable energy. Napton Cidery is working towards a B-corp certificate to help promote our sustainable ethos and minimise carbon dioxide emissions for future generations.

Review: The New Real, The Other Place, Stratford

Posted on October 19, 2024October 19, 2024 by admin

The New Real, RSC — Lloyd Owen and Martina Laird

Set during ferocious presidential elections in a former communist Eastern European country, The New Real sees two American political strategists engaged in a grudge match far from home, working for competing candidates, and redrawing the political faultline.

It opens in the early 2000s, just ahead of the year’s US election in a world where populist leaders are transforming the political landscape. The New Real explores the battle between mainstream politics and a new national-populist Right.

The New Real, The Other Place

Our protagonist takes the form of Rachel Moss, brilliantly played by Martina Laird, and who shows great on-stage chemistry with her bitter rival – and fleeting love interest – Larry Yeates (Lloyd Owen), the pair more than competently supported by a versatile cast switching between roles – with the help of changing wigs and accents.

Our strategists think they’ve come to teach the East how to do elections, but is the learning the other way around? And will what they’ve learned spread to Western Europe, Britain and America? An origin story of the contemporary political scene, writer David Edgar’s panoramic play explores the wider themes of how political and personal ideals are expressed, challenged and betrayed.

The New Real, The Other Place

There are laughs along the way too, a Eurovision Song Contest scene being particularly memorable for bringing some respite to all the political tension. But, far from shying away from the difficult political questions – it puts them front and centre in what, at times, is an uncomfortable watch.

But it’s director Holly Race Roughan who says it best: “Through sharp characterisation, wit, and impeccable plotting, this show lays bare how the lines between truth and fiction have been blurred in the 21st Century’s pursuit of power, challenging our fundamental understanding of freedom and democracy.”

The New Real, The Other Place

The New Real is an incisive examination of the intense political and cultural polarisation we’re all living through – and couldn’t be more timely. At just under three hours, you will need to buckle in for a show that’s as sobering as it is entertaining.

But is not to be missed!

It plays at The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon until November 2^nd. Tickets available HERE.

Review: A weekend in Hampshire

Posted on October 19, 2024October 19, 2024 by admin

voco Winchester, Hampshire

While visiting family in Hampshire, I decided to make a weekend of it and accept an invitation to make our base at the newly rebranded voco® Winchester Hotel & Spa.

Previously part of the Holiday Inn group of hotels, we were lucky enough to be among the first to have the voco® experience as the wraps came off a £2m refurbishment.

The contemporary hotel, which was first built in 2010, is located on the edge of the beautiful South Downs National Park and within 5 minutes from Winchester City Centre.

voco Winchester, Hampshire

The 131 stylish bedrooms consist of double, twin, accessible, premium and grand rooms, plus a suite. Since the refurbishment all rooms have benefited from an improvement in quality and service. The brand new premium and grand rooms now offer an elevated level of luxury with little touches that make the stay a more memorable one – from bathrobe and slippers, new bedding, to Nespresso machines, and – my favourite feature – complimentary mini bars containing canned wine, beer, soft drinks, juice, chocolate and savoury treats. Perfect for those late-night munchies.

voco Winchester, Hampshire

Our executive room was extremely spacious and comfortable – the feature retro telephone was a nice style touch – but it’s the fresh and contemporary open lobby area that gives an impressive first impression on arrival. I could very happily have whiled away the day soaking up the café culture of this relaxing and welcoming space. A great place to crack open the laptop and catch up on a bit of work too.

The new identity blends the comfort and reliability of Holiday Inn with the distinct charm, unique character, and personalised touches that voco® hotels are known for. And I would recommend this as a great stopover while on a pleasure or business trip in the area. (Nine adaptable meeting and events spaces are well tailored for corporate needs.)

voco Winchester, Hampshire

Sadly, my tight schedule meant I was unable to indulge in a visit to the hotel’s Ana Spa – which features a Hydro- Pool, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Sensory Shower, Crystal Steam Room and Bubble Foot Spa – or take full advantage of the Kitchen 21 restaurant – renowned for its 21-inch pizza! But I can vouch for breakfast which was fresh and hearty with enough choice to fuel us up for the busy day of exploring ahead.

The hotel prides itself on offering ‘the perfect blend of Winchester’s rich heritage and modern amenities’ and is the perfect base from which to enjoy the many sights and attractions in this often-overlooked part of the country.

What we did in the area. . .

Visit here for more to do inWinchester.

Marwell Zoo, Winchester, Hampshire

Marwell Zoo, Winchester

Just eight miles from Winchester, Marwell Zoo is a must if you find yourself in the area.

But allow plenty of time (at least four hours recommended) to enjoy your day as there is a huge variety of species spread across 140 acres, to visit.

As a parent of two boys with differing tastes, zoos have been a staple that we can all agree on for a day out, at all ages (they’re now young men!) and so, we’ve frequented quite a few! But Marwell still managed to deliver a new experience as we came into contact with many new species we couldn’t recall seeing before.

One of the highlights though was most definitely meeting Marwell’s newest addition – a beautiful Rothschild giraffe calf – a species listed as ‘near threatened’ on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List.

A useful app is available to download with map and information on feeding times and shows – and if, like us, you arrive on a damp day, there’s plenty of sheltered animal houses in which to enjoy respite from the elements.

For a fabulous day out suitable for all members of the family, I would wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Marwell. Have fun while supporting the great work they do there.

Beaulieu Motor Museum, New Forest

Another one for all ages, award-winning Beaulieu is one of the leading attractions in the UK and visitors have been exploring the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey since 1912. In 1952, Edward, Lord Montagu opened Palace House and Gardens to the public for the first time – making Beaulieu among the first ‘stately homes’ to admit visitors.

Inspired by his late father, John Douglas-Scott-Montagu, who was a motoring advocate and pioneer at the turn of the last century, the Montagu Motor Museum would develop. Supported by the British motor industry and enthusiasts, the museum continued its expansion, becoming the National Motor Museum in 1972 – the most fantastic treasure trove for petrol heads containing a world-famous collection of vehicles and associated motoring archives.

Marwell Zoo, Winchester, Hampshire

Aside from the Motor Museum, Palace House and Abbey, there are plenty of hidden gems at this jewel of a day out. Walk – or catch the veteran bus or monorail – to discover the Secret Army Exhibition, On Screen Cars exhibition, Art Russe at The Clock House and grounds and gardens, incorporating Little Beaulieu – perfect for the little ones to let off some steam of their own.

Make this place the top of your list while in the area.

Southampton

A vibrant and lively port city, Southampton is bursting with experiences. Our brief evening visit for dinner led us to West Quay South which boasts a diverse range of bars and restaurants and busy shopping scene.

Southampton, Hampshire

Should you find yourself here for longer, be sure to take time to walk the walls, stretching along the Esplanade towards Old Town’s Town Quay. Here you can walk alongside and even atop some of these fantastic pieces of Southampton’s history. Most notably, Southampton was home to many of the passengers and crew that departed on RMS Titanic’s maiden voyage. Dedicated to those who perished in the 1912 ship’s sinking, there are a number of memorials and other points of interest to visit around the city.

And if this your thing, don’t miss the fascinating SeaCity Museum, where you can discover Southampton’s Titanic story in more depth.

Redditch Rotarians appeal for ‘tools to transform lives’

Posted on October 18, 2024 by admin

John Scott of Redditch Kingfisher and Mike Luck of Redditch Rotary Club with some of the donated items.

‘Your unused tools can transform lives in Africa’ – This is the pledge from Redditch Rotarians who are appealing for donations at a special drop-in event this month.

Members of Redditch Rotary and Redditch Kingfisher Rotary Clubs have joined forces to support the Tools With A Mission charity which refurbishes and supplies a variety of tools to over 500 organisations in sub-Saharan Africa.

Donations are welcomed between 11am-2pm at Morrisons on Warwick Highway in Redditch on Sunday, October 27^th and include any of the following: agricultural and gardening tools; builders’ tools; carpenters’ tools; electricians; tools; plumbers’ tools; and power tools; as well as sewing and knitting machines; fully working computers and haberdashery.

John Scott, Rotary Club of Redditch Kingfisher and District Secretary, said: “The cooperation between Tools With A Mission and Redditch Rotary Club has continued over the past 12 months with a large collection of tools and equipment.

“All donated items are prepared and sorted into trade bundles by TWAM before shipping them over to African countries for distribution through the TWAM organisation.

“Amongst the vast number of traditional hand tools donated, there were sewing machines, knitting machines and even a motorised rotavator!

“We are now delighted to have joined forces with the other Rotarians in our area to embark on a major project to collect tools for TWAM.”

Tools With A Mission is a Christian charity that collects unwanted usable tools, refurbishes them, sorts them into trade tool kits and sends them to the developing world for livelihood creation. In doing so, it also supports UK communities through volunteering opportunities and contributes significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and carbon emissions in the UK.

Through its ‘local to global’ model, it prevents nearly 400 tonnes of tools from crowding UK landfills annually and engages local communities, offering volunteering opportunities that nurture skills and foster social connections.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “The impact of our work resonates globally. These tools equip individuals with the skills needed to completely transform their lives and communities.

“By refurbishing and recycling, we save over 1,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, demonstrating our commitment to environmental sustainability. Our toolkits serve as catalysts for change, from supporting families and education to strengthening communities. Our local efforts have a global impact, helping to create a world where everyone has the chance to thrive.”

Noor Haq, President of the Kingfisher Club, said: “Sustainability is one of club’s major aims and this is a great example of where items which would otherwise be thrown away are found a new life and, in many cases, lead to new livelihoods and employment opportunities in poor areas of Africa.”

Redditch Kingfisher Rotary Club, Redditch Rotary Club

The wanted list:

Agricultural tools: fork, spade, hoe, garden rake, hand fork and trowel, lopper, secateurs and hand shears.

Builders’ tools: spade, shovel, 3ft spirit level, axe, crowbar, fork, sledgehammer, bow saw, bolsters, chisels, all types of hammers and trowels, pin and lines, tape measures, hacksaws and Stanley and hacksaw blades.

Carpenters’ tools: bevel, braces, clamps, hand drills and bits, all types of files and hammers, Stanley knife, all types of planes and saws, pliers, rules, all types of saws and screwdrivers, squares plus screws, nails and bolts.

Electricians’ tools: allen keys, hand drills and bits, all types of pliers and hacksaws, screwdrivers, spanners, soldering iron, voltmeter.

Motor mechanics’ tools: allen keys, cold chisels, breast drill and bits, all types of hammers and pliers, punches, metric socket sets, spanners, adjustable spanners, cantilever toolboxes, tyre pressure gauge.

Plumbers’ tools: basin or tap wrench, wire brush, breast drill and bits, various grips and saws, screwdriver, oil can etc.

Garage workshop: hydraulic jack, axle stands, battery charger, ramps and large engineer’s vice.

Power tools: hand and bench drills, sander, planer, jigsaw, circular, band and chop saws, lathe, cultivator, rotavator, welding machine and generator.

Sewing machines: manual, electric, treadle and industrial.

Knitting machines: machine and hand wool, needles and patterns.

Haberdashery: needles, cottons, large material pieces/rolls, buttons, zips, tapes.

Fully working IT equipment: desktop computers and laptops running a minimum of Microsoft Windows 7, modern flatscreen monitors, tablets.

Bibles: in modern English.

For people unable to attend the event on the 27^th, tools can also be collected by contacting: redditchrotary@twam.uk

For more information about Tools With A Mission visit: https://www.twam.uk/

Find out more about The Rotary Club of Redditch here.

Find out more about Redditch Kingfisher Rotary here.