MONSTERS, MISCHIEF AND MORE! BOOK NOW WMSP.CO.UK HEREFORD & WORCESTER COMPETITIONS P30 & 31 MAKE AND DO P10, 24 & 25 WHAT’S ON UNTIL JANUARY P4-16 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2023
2 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WELCOME Welcome to Autumn and the final magazine of 2023! If you’re anything like me, I imagine you are Raring2go! for the half term – there are loads of things going on locally with plenty of treats (and a few tricks) for us all to enjoy. This edition is jam-packed with an extensive what’s-on guide covering October, November and December so you can plan your half term, Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas shows and of course panto season! As always, more events are added to the website every day, so you will find them all there. Keep visiting the website and localise to your area to ensure you can find them all. For ease, you can just scan the QR code opposite for instant access to the online what’s on guide. All events listed here were correct at the time of going to press – but don’t forget to check the venue’s website for any changes, information, and those allimportant booking details. Wishing you all an awesome Autumn, and a very magical Christmas! Pauline x herefordandworcester@raring2go.co.uk 07810 349590
3 Raring2go! PRE SCHOOL 01432 358070 wyesidenursery@gmail.com www.wyesidedaynursery.co.uk Wyeside Day Nursery & Out of School Care Ltd 26 Eign Road, Hereford, HR1 2RY “Where children enjoy their learning adventure” www.charliesummersportraits.com www.dramatots.co.uk Email: jo@dramatots.co.uk Or call Jo today on - 07738 969460 • Weekly Classes • Nursery Sessions • Parties • Special Sessions During School Holidays For children aged 18 months - 4 years CLASSES ALVECHURCH, BROMSGROVE AND WYTHALL!
4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Discover the history of Hereford Cathedral with one of our family trails! Explore the cathedral with our Family Guide, discover what is hidden Through the Keyhole or search for the secret Dragons, Beasts and Pilgrims. All of our trails are FREE - pick one up from the Welcome Desk. herefordcathedral.org FREE FAMILY FUN AT HEREFORD CATHEDRAL Horrorford Halloween 28 October | 11:00 - 15:00 High Town and Old Market Trick or Treat Trail 28 October - 5 November Available on the LoyalFree app! L EARN M O R E Join us for fun, free family events 3 - 7 October The Secret Garden live on stage at the Courtyard. Journey through the door of a forgotten world where magic and wonder thrive in unexpected places. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 5 October - 5th November Halloween at Drayton Manor. Spooktacular fun with live entertainment, terrific Halloween trails, and your favourite rides & attractions, www.draytonmanor.co.uk ..................................................................... 11 October Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 11 October Tales from Acorn Wood at The Courtyard. Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting lift-the-flap experience. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 11 & 12 October The Gruffalo’s Child at Swan Theatre. Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..................................................................... 12 October Harry Potter Book Night at Hereford Cathedral. Advance booking essential for this hugely popular event! www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 14 October Really Big Pants Theatre: Wonky at The Courtyard. A show about being different. Being wonky. Being YOU. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 21 October Hereford’s Community Wellbeing Event at Maylord Orchards
5 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Lois Gunn Winner of The Great Pottery Throwdown 2023 @lois.gunn @ceramicfest_hfd ceramicfesthfd Friday 3rd - Sunday 5th November maylord orchards, Hereford city & Cup ceramics , foley trading estate Workshops for all ages Try your hand at handbuilding, slip casting and more! Jo Davies @jo_davies_ceramics Verity Howard @verityhowardceramics friday Rupert Brakspear @brakspearceramics Lucy Baxendale @baxenburg saturday Miles Johnson @miles.ceramics Isatu Hyde @isatuhyde sunday Tony Hall large throwing demos @castlehillarts www.ceramicfesthfd.co.uk 07548629525 Public raku firings come along and paint a pot to go in our raku kiln, stay for our evening raku display Local Makers Market a wide variety of pottery for sale from over 15 local potters art trail complete our art trail to win a little pottery prize! studio workshops and demonstrations workshop and conversation with- saturday 10am - 4pm. With all things holistic including therapies, card readers, natural & alternative market, taster sessions, workshops and more. www.maylordorchards.co.uk ..................................................................... 21 October Little Play World at Peterchurch Village Hall. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from rock stars to vets, and everything in between! Book your tickets at www.littleplayworld.co.uk ..................................................................... 26 October Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 28 October Spooky Season in Hereford - Horrorford Halloween The Hereford City Life team are back with another spooky spectacle to celebrate Halloween! Starting at 11am, this incredible free event will include live music, ghoulish performances from fire-breathers and stilt-walkers, children’s workshops, face painting, fancy dress competitions and the annual ZOMBIE CRAWL! www.herefordcitylife.co.uk ..................................................................... 28 October Halloween Spooktacular at Maylord Orchards. Come along for our spooktacular event with food & drink, entertainment, craft & clay workshops, craft fair, free face painting & balloon modelling, and more! Are you a crafter, maker, baker or creator and fancy running a stall at this event? Call Karina on 01432 261738 www.maylordorchards.co.uk ..................................................................... 28 October - 5 November Hereford Trick or Treat Trail. No tricks, just treats on this fabulous, free Halloween trail. Use the LoyalFree app to guide you and your little ones to collect treats from 10 locations around Hereford City Centre. Don’t forget to bring a Halloween basket to collect your treats! www.herefordcitylife.co.uk
6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
7 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Showcase 23 www.creativeartshowcase.org Bromsgrove School Arena & Hospitality Suite, Main Entrance, Worcester Road, Bromsgrove B61 7HP Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th October 2023 10am - 4pm Festival of Art, Performance & Creativity! Organised by Creative Art Showcase Charity Registration No 1198055 Our mission is to bring art and creativity into the reach of all our communities Mon 30th Oct - Fri 3rd Nov Tractor Rides Pony Ride Day (one day only) Autumn Treasure Hunt with prize Dress a Scarecrow PLAY! Slides, Sandpits, Zipwire, Go karts, Rope swings, Soft play & more! www.newbridgefarmpark.com Like & follow us on Facebook & Instagram for more updates.
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 29 October The Little Mermaid at Swan Theatre. Expect lots of fun, singing and dancing, all brought to you by a fantastic and energetic company of wonderful performers. Sparkling scenery, beautiful costumes and an exciting opportunity to meet the characters after the show, this is sure to be the family show of the year that you don’t want to miss! www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..................................................................... 29 October Ministry of Science Live at The Courtyard. The UK’s favourite science team are back and more explosive than ever! Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way! www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 30 October The Amazing Bubble Man at Swan Theatre. From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines to people inside bubbles, the Amazing Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..................................................................... 30 October Halloween Half-Term Fun at Newbridge Farm Park with tractor rides, pony ride day, dress a scarecrow, and much more. www.newbridgefarmpark.com ..................................................................... 31 October Norwich Puppet Theatre Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Courtyard. Norwich Puppet Theatre’s sideways take on Shakespeare’s classic play with beautifully carved puppets, original music, and lots of shadows. Recommended for ages 6-12. www.courtyard.org.uk
9 Raring2go! 27 Helping children who are nervous on fireworks night Every child is unique, some like fireworks more than others and some don’t want to watch them at all which is fine. If your child is nervous around loud noises or is autistic, these are our suggested tips which may help. Explain what’s going to happen. Social or visual stories can be a great help. Let them know when they’re going, where they’re going and the different steps once you’re there. If you can include images, it will help. You can find videos of firework displays on YouTube if they have never watched a display before. Not sure where to start? Google ‘fireworks social stories’ for some ideas or Monkey World have an excellent example of a social story on their website. It’s not fireworks related but it is a great example! Go to www.monkeyworld.org, click on ‘Visit Us’ followed by ‘Disabled Facilities’ and then ‘Accessibility Guide’ to find it. Have plenty of distractions. Hungry children can become distressed children very quickly. Having snacks and drinks on hand can help, maybe even a hot chocolate on a cold night can keep children from worrying and keep their tummies happy too. Use ear defenders or ear plugs. Ear defenders obviously help with the noise, I also find that they help other people realise your child may have extra needs and give them a bit of space! If your child isn’t a fan of ear defenders (especially as they get towards the teen years) we find Loop ear plugs discreet and effective. Contact the venue If your child has a disability or condition, the venue may have a specific viewing area which might give them some extra space and help deal with the crowds. Comfy shoes! Footwear isn’t just essential for keeping little feet warm, my daughter finds the vibrations from the fireworks as off putting as the sound. Having shoes with squishy soles doesn’t elimate the issue but it can reduce it. Consider something low key at home If the noise of fireworks is a big no, maybe toasting marshmallows over a fire basket would be better, or a few sparklers, or one of our favourites is a Mystical Flame sachet that makes the flames burn different colours. (link to Mystical Flames on the QR code). THE FIREWORK CODE ALWAYS FOLLOW THE FIREWORK CODE ✷ Do not buy fireworks from UNLICENCED retailers. These fireworks may be unsafe and illegal. ✷ Only buy fireworks that comply with current safety standards.* ✷ Always keep fireworks in a closed box. Take them out one at a time and close the box. ✷ Never put fireworks in your pocket. ✷ Be considerate. Let your neighbours know you will be having a display, especially if they are elderly or they have pets or children. ✷ Avoid setting fireworks off late at night, particularly if it is a school-night. ✷ Ensure your pets are safe. ✷ Carefully follow the instructions on EACH firework. ✷ Never go back to a lit firework unless the instructions advise otherwise. ✷ Never throw fireworks; it is dangerous. ✷ Light fireworks one at a time, at the end of the fuse, and at arm’s length. ✷ Light sparklers one at a time and wear suitable gloves, even when lighting them. ✷ Never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5. ✷ Never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire. STAY SAFE, BE CONSIDERATE, AND DON’T BECOME A NUISANCE. * All fireworks supplied by BFA members are tested to conform to the current safety standards. If you require more information, contact the seller or any member of the BFA. www.britishfireworksassociation.co.uk
10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! THINGS TO DO About the bake Fun to make and share.Why not get creative and decorate with chocolate sprinkles or decorations to personalise your toffee apples. Raring2make! FUN IDEAS FOR MAKING THINGS TOGETHER ‘Cakes are healthy too, you just eat a small slice’ Mary Berry www.raring2go.co.uk Toffee Apples with Baking Mad For more great recipe ideas please visit our website: www.raring2go.co.uk Ingredients: 7 Apple(s) 265g Billington's Unrefined Golden Caster Sugar 130ml Water 0.5 tsp White wine vinegar 2 tbsp Golden syrup 30g Butter (unsalted) Method Step 1: Prepare the apples by cutting out a small hole in the top and attaching a stick. Lightly grease a baking sheet for placing the coated apples on. Step 2: Dissolve the sugar in the water over a moderate heat.When it has dissolved, stir in the vinegar, syrup and butter. Step 3: Bring to the boil and cook until it reaches a hard crack stage.This should take about 10 minutes.To test this drop a small amount in a glass of cold water. If it is ready a blob of toffee will form which is slightly stretchy but breaks with pressure. If using a thermometer, a hard crack should be between 146 - 155 degrees C. Step 4: Dip each apple into the toffee turning it to completely cover the apple. Step 5: Leave the apples on the prepared tray.Wrap in cellophane for gifting. For more great recipes visit Bakingmad.com and What are toffee apples made of? Toffee apples are the perfect treat for Bonfire Night or Halloween. Juicy apples are dipped into the sugar syrup and allowed to set.You can even add chocolate sprinkles at this stage too before your delicious toffee apple has set.
11 Raring2go! PUZZLES WORDSEARCH ANSWERS: Acorn, Apple, Jacket, Leaf, pumpkin, rake, school and hay. NAME THE ANIMALS: Across: 1. Lion, 3. Crocodile, 5. Giraffe. Down: 1. Leopard, 2. Elephant, 4, Zebra. 1 4 2 3 S C L 5 1 G Z E WORDSEARCH Find the Autumn related words Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! Find the animals… 1 3 1 2 4 5 Raring2go Puzzle page AUTUMN 2023 PA01.indd 1 16/08/2023 15:02
12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON For details of bonfires and fireworks in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, head over to our online feature at raring2go.co.uk or simply scan the code below with your phone 1 November Little Play World at The Courtyard Family Festival. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from rock stars to vets, and everything in between! Book your tickets at www.courtyard.org.uk ...................................................................... 1 November Sea Legs Puppet Theatre: Tales From The Farmyard at The Courtyard. An unexpected guest at the table and a sprinkling of fairy dust ensures plenty of mischief and a howling good time for all. www.courtyard.org.uk ...................................................................... 1 November The Wizard Of Oz at Swan Theatre. Join Ballet Theatre UK as we follow the yellow brick road and discover all the wonders of Oz. Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion, (and yes Toto too) as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there’s no place like home! www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ...................................................................... 2 November Autumn Messy Church at Hereford Cathedral. Join us for an afternoon of family fun and crafts. www.herefordcathedral.org ...................................................................... 2 November Snug And Grub Catch A Bug at The Courtyard. A wonderfully wiggly adventure for all the family. Join Garlic Theatre for a funny organic tale, with clowning and a host of colourful puppets, a beautifully crafted set and foot tapping music. www.courtyard.org.uk ...................................................................... 3 November Meet Pippi Longstocking at The Courtyard. When Pippi comes to live in her new home with her monkey and horse but with no parents and no rules, she brings mischief, chaos and confusion to the folk of this ordinary and traditional town. www.courtyard.org.uk ...................................................................... 3 & 8 November Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ................................................................... 6 November Crown Ballet: The Nutcracker at The Courtyard. The ballet is the ultimate fairy-tale where goodness and beauty triumph.www.courtyard.org.uk ...................................................................... 11 November Little Play World at Bartestree Village Hall. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from rock stars to vets, and everything in between! Book your tickets at www.littleplayworld.co.uk ...................................................................... 14 - 16 November Stick Man at Swan Theatre. This award-winning production, from the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ...................................................................... 14 - 18 November Elf The Musical - HMTC at The Courtyard. ELF is the funny and charming tale of Buddy, who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag as a
13 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON baby and was raised as an elf! www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 17 & 18 November Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 18 November The Nutcracker at Swan Theatre. After last year’s successful premier, Crown Ballet returns this year to the UK to enchant you with the delightful production of The Nutcracker. A wonderful treat full of glitter for the whole family! www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..................................................................... 19 November Maylords Magical Christmas Showcase. 11am - 5pm. Come along for some magical fun with live music, Christmas craft market, free face painting & balloon modelling, local food & drink stalls, a magical Christmas show, and the Christmas Lights Switch On! Are you a crafter, maker, baker or creator and fancy running a stall at this event? Call Karina on 01432 261738 today. www.maylordorchards.co.uk ..................................................................... 24 & 25 November Magna Carter on display at Hereford Cathedral. The Magna Carta is one of the most famous documents in English history and it still resonates today with many people for its role in the defence of rights and freedoms. We will be displaying our copy of the 1217 Magna Carta and the only known surviving copy of the 1215 King’s Writ on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 November. This will be the only opportunity to see the originals of these incredibly important documents in 2023. www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 25 November - 31 January Christmas Wonderland at Drayton Manor on selected dates. Make unforgettable festive memories for the whole family at Drayton Manor’s ALL NEW Christmas Wonderland. The ultimate destination for family Christmas fun featuring ALL NEW festive shows and attractions, Thomas Land rides & shows, plus over 500 animals in our fantastic zoo. www.draytonmanor.co.uk ..................................................................... 25 November Little Red Riding Hood at The Courtyard. Join Little Red Riding hood down the path into the snowy wild wood where you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... Late November - January 2024 Hereford Nutcracker Trail. Hereford’s popular festive trail is back for 2023! From late November, families can collect a trail map and get exploring to discover giant nutcracker statues keeping watch across the city centre. Each nutcracker has its own special name for you to learn. Once all nutcrackers and their names have been found a prize awaits at Hereford Tourist Information Centre! Join us for: Hereford Nutcracker Trail November 2023 until January 2024 Late Night Shopping Wednesdays 6, 13 & 20 December Festive Weekend 16 - 17 December
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON YourCome ragraph text THE ENCHANTED GROUP WILL BE PERFORMING THEIR MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SHOWCASE AT THE MAYLORD ORCHARDS CHRISTMAS EVENT ON SUNDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2023 FRESH 1 December - 6 January Dick Whittington - Pantomime at The Courtyard. An action-packed swashbuckling story, magnificent musical numbers, spectacular sets, electric live band, dazzling costumes and a joyfully funny script, www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 2 December Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 2 December Festive Family Rave at The Courtyard. Full of bubbles, balloons and all of your favourite tunes, crimbo classics included – bring your crew and dance your way into the festive season. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 4 December - 7 January Jack And The Beanstalk at Swan Theatre. The Worcester Repertory Company proudly presents the most GIGANTIC pantomime of them all, Jack and The Beanstalk! Bringing you all your favourite traditional panto moments so you can boo, hiss, cheer, laugh and sing to your hearts content at Worcester’s favourite family pantomime. A story of bravery and beans, giants and gold, friendship and fantasy – this is the pantomime you’ve bean waiting for! www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..................................................................... 6 December Hereford Late Night Shopping. Late Night Shopping in Hereford is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Shop for gifts, enjoy tasty festive treats and take in the ambience of our beautiful city under the twinkling lights. Even better, from 4pm on these dates parking is FREE at Old Market, Maylord Orchards and Council Car Parks (excluding
15 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Monday 11 December - Monday 8 January FIND THE ANGEL TRAIL Pick up one of our free trails and find the heavenly host of angels that are visiting the cathedral this Christmas! Wednesday 20 December CHRISTMAS LEGO CLUB Enjoy this festive freestyle Lego building session Book your free space online Thursday 4 January, 12 noon MESSY CHURCH Celebrate Epiphany with us with an afternoon of creativity, faith and fun! herefordcathedral.org FESTIVE FAMILY FUN Friar Street and private car parks). ..................................................................... 9 December Elsa’s Frozen Winter Wonderland with Dazzles at the clubhouse, Saltmarsh Castle Park. Follow Dazzles on Facebook for more information. www.facebook.com/ dazzlesfacepaintandentertain ..................................................................... 9 December Goldilocks at The Courtyard. Take a delightful dive into a magical world of make-believe as we follow Goldilocks on an exciting journey, hearing her side of the story, and meeting an array of lovable characters along the way. www.courtyard.org.uk ..................................................................... 11 December - 8 January Find The Angel Trail at Hereford Cathedral. Pick up one of the free trails and find the heavenly host of angels. www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 12 December Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 13 December Hereford Late Night Shopping. Late Night Shopping in Hereford is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Shop for gifts, enjoy tasty festive treats and take in the ambience of our beautiful city under the twinkling lights. Even better, from 4pm on these dates parking is FREE at Old Market, Maylord Orchards and Council Car Parks (excluding Friar Street and private car parks). ..................................................................... 15 - 24 December Little Red Riding Hood at Swan Theatre. Follow Little Red Riding Hood on her journey through the forest with a basket of scrumptious treats for Granny. She’ll meet some friendly creatures along the way and of course the BIG BAD WOLF, but with your help we’re sure we can send him packing! An intimate introduction to theatre, perfect for your little ones aged 3 - 6 years. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 16 December Little Play World Christmas Special at Withington Village Hall. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from rock stars to vets, and everything in between! Book your tickets at www.littleplayworld.co.uk ..................................................................... 16 December Christmas Fair at Hereford Cathedral with over 40 stall holders. Homemade produce, handcrafter items and plenty of festive gifts. 9.30am - 4pm with carol singing in the cathedral close at midday. www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 19 December Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. Can you crack the code in time to escape? www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 20 December Christmas Lego Club at Hereford Cathedral. Book your free space online. www.herefordcathedral.org ..................................................................... 20 December Hereford Late Night Shopping. Late Night Shopping in Hereford is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit! Shop for gifts, enjoy tasty festive treats and take in the ambience of our beautiful city under the twinkling lights. Even better, from 4pm on these dates parking is FREE at Old Market, Maylord Orchards and Council Car Parks (excluding Friar Street and private car parks). ..................................................................... 31 December Neon Night Children’s New Years Eve party with Dazzles Face Painting & Entertainments. There will be high energy party games, dancing, buffet, prizes and more. Check out the facebook page for details. ..................................................................... 4th January Messy Church - an afternoon of creativity, faith and fun at Hereford Cathedral. www.herefordcathedral.org BOX OFFICE 01432 340555 courtyard.org.uk In partnership with The Stage Fri 1 Dec 2023 - Sat 6 Jan 2024 Directed by Estelle van Warmelo Written by Lyndsay Maples Dick Whittington 2023 half page.indd 1 13/09/2023 14:38:06
17 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON MON 4 DEC 2023 - SUN 7 JAN 2024 WORCESTERTHEATRES.CO.UK BOX OFFICE: 01905 611 427 SWAN T H E AT R E WORCESTER REPERTORY COMPANY PRESENTS Looking for what’s on you’ll find out here in your go-to guide for you and your child
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 2 THE BOX OF DELIGHTS – A magical, festive show for the whole family from the RSC The Royal Shakespeare Company has announced its festive family show for 2023. Following 2022’s sell-out production of A Christmas Carol, this year the Stratfordupon-Avon based company is presenting The Box of Delights, in a production which promises to be magical, spectacular and entertaining in equal measure. Adapted by Piers Torday from the classic 1935 novel by John Masefield, The Box of Delights follows orphaned schoolboy Kay Harker who finds himself the guardian of a small wooden box with powers beyond his wildest dreams. Caught up in a battle between two powerful magicians, Kay fights to save not just the people he loves but also the future of Christmas itself. Many will remember the BBC’s acclaimed TV adaptation from the 1980s. The production runs in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre between 31 October 2023 – 7 January 2024. The RSC has a strong reputation for putting on quality entertainment for the whole family over the festive period, and The Box of Delights follows in the footsteps of productions such as Beauty and the Beast, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, and more recently, The Magician’s Elephant. Tickets are available from rsc.og.uk or 01789 331111.
19 Raring2go! 14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! What to Do and Where to Go 6 Reasons to Buy an Annual Pass this Winter 1. Save Money Check whether there are any restrictions on dates and times that you can use the pass, and work out when you would be available to go. You may only need to visit an attraction twice in the year to cover the cost of the annual pass. Thereafter, you will have unlimited visits which can result in large savings. Work out how much you’ll save by dividing the cost of the pass by the cost of a day’s admission, so that you know exactly how many times you will need to visit before you start saving money. 2. Year-round access to seasonal events Lots of attractions hold seasonal events and activities throughout the year, for example Easter Egg hunts, summer trails, Halloween and Christmas-themed events. These events may also be included in the cost of the annual pass, or available at a discount. 3. Discounts in the Gift shop or Cafe Check whether the annual pass holder benefits from other discounts. Many will offer a discount in the cafe or gift shop, which is great news when you are desperate for a coffee or for when it’s time to exit the attraction, and you have lots of pleading eyes from the children. 4. Other Venues You may be able to use some annual passes at other locations. Check out the passes that you can use at different locations throughout the UK - perfect for the summer holidays! 5. Quicker entrance with fast-track queueing At busy times of the year, the queue at the entrance of larger attractions can build up. A fast-track entrance is perfect to whizz excited children straight in without delay, and get started on the fun! This is perfect for families just wanting to drop in for an hour or so, which leads on to... 6. Short visits Unlimited access means that you can go along for just an hour after school and not feel that it’s a waste of money. There is no pressure to try to race around and fit everything in each time you visit. Several short visits ensures that smaller children don’t get overwhelmed or too tired. Plus... you will be able to see the different theming at the attraction throughout the year. Why not consider buying an annual pass as a Christmas present? You’ll be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas for 12 months, and it won’t be a gift that you are picking up off the floor each day! Esher Winter R2G Template with text styles 2022.indd 14 02/11/2022 16:24:51
20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! THINGS TO DO
21 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES Creative Courage For Life® Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited. Singing, dancing and acting classes for year-olds Helping children believe they can do anything 01432 820818 St. Mary's RC High School, HR1 4DR www.stagecoach.co.uk/hereford Stagecoach Hereford 4 - 18
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO LOW CARBON HOMES 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Homes | From £320,000 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes | From £525,000 70% SOLD OVER 75% SOLD OVER TALK TO OUR FRIENDLY TEAM TODAY 01594 543 354 www.freemanhomes.co.uk **Home Builders Federation Watt a Save Report * Ask our sales team for more information Beautiful, energy-efficient properties featuring market-leading renewable technologies. FOWNHOPE, HEREFORDSHIRE Viridian low-profile integrated solar PV roof panels NIBE compact air source heat pumps Project EV electric car charging points Optional battery pack to store generated energy Water reduction features and energy-efficient appliances EPC homes. Save over £3,100 on bills** A-rated Spacious 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Homes MOVE IN AUTUMN WINTER 2023 SHOW HOME NOW OPEN
23 Why buy new? Save money on your bills with a low-carbon home in Herefordshire LOW CARBON HOMES Did you know that buying an EPC B-rated new build could save you an average of £260 per month on energy bills. Updated research from the Home Builders Federation, highlights the average new build home will save buyers £3,100 on their energy bills compared with an older equivalent property. Just imagine what an EPC A-rated property with renewable energy generation can do. At Freeman Homes, 100% of open market homes built on developments started since October 2021, are EPC B-rated or higher. 94% have achieved, or are predicted to achieve, A-rating. The properties are designed using a ‘fabric-first’ approach to maximise energy performance. They feature market-leading renewable energy technologies, water-reduction features, and energy-efficient appliances to provide carbon-conscious living that is more environmentally friendly and lowers energy bills. Oakfields in Credenhill, Cherry Hill in Fownhope, and Clifton Meadows in St Weonards present spacious, beautifully appointed 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom homes with views onto the surrounding countryside. Get in touch with the friendly sales team to learn more about their homes and locations. 01594 543 354 www.freemanhomes.co.uk *
24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Christmas Salt Dough Decoration You will need: .__ • Large Bowl • Cup of Salt • ? C::�ps of Flour • 3/4 Cup of Water • Spoon • Baking tray • Oven • Cutters • Paint • Ribbon I. Mix the salt and flour together, gradually stir in the water to make a dough 2. Knead on a work surface and roll out. Heat the oven to 180C 3. Use the cutters to cut out lots of shapes, put a hole at the top of each one with a pencil 4. Bake in the oven - length of time depends on size of shapes, but can be as long as 3 hours. (I have heard it can take 90 seconds in a microwave so this is worth a try! 5. Once the decorations have completely cooled you can paint" them! Use paints and glitter for extra Christmas sparkle. You can seal the decoration with a layer of PVA or varnish, but this is not essential. 6. Once the paint has dried you can thread them onto string or ribbon into a garland, or use ribbon and make individual decorations. You could also cut around your hand and make a Father Christmas (as above) and give as keepsake gifts. Grandparents would LOVE these! Raring2gol raring2go.co.uk
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26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! READING 2 Many parents become aware of their child’s dyslexia only when they start school, so we thought we’d offer some ideas to support young readers who are less confident. Learning to read is hard work and can be quite daunting, often also tinged with the fear that once you can read, the bedtime stories will stop. Here are some simple ways to ensure that reading stays fun and feels achievable. Dyslexia makes it even harder, so do ask for support, and look up information on The British Dyslexia Association website. Don’t feel that offering your child extra help is cheating or stalling their learning in any way. Allow your child to choose a book they want to read and let them start reading – genuinely allowing a child to choose (even if it is not what you would have chosen for them) is a significant factor in their investment in learning. Read together, and read at your child’s pace, not your own. When they make a mistake give your child time to have another try, but then say the word yourself and allow them to carry on - this keeps the flow going. Supporting Dyslexic or less confident readers Take breaks and only read in short, achievable blocks. Also take time to look at and discuss the pictures in the book – visual literacy is important too. Remember, learning to read is not a race against other classmates, so ignore the boasting parents in the playground! Try to think of your role at home as to ensure that they keep enjoying books and stories. For an older child, make use of audio books too; if there is a class book and your child struggles to read it, download the audio version. They will keep up with the class, be able to join in discussions about the plot and characters, and knowing the story of the book will remove the anxiety associated with the challenges of reading. Look out for Super Readable books, such as those by Barrington Stoke. These are printed a little differently, with good quality paper, proper spacing and paragraph breaks too. And they only work with the very best writers working today, so you will also get a great story. All the photos on these pages are of super-readable Barrington Stoke books for readers of all ages. There are more tips on supporting dyslexic readers on our website, so check out our blog on this! By Tamsin Rosewell, Kenilworth Books
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 27 Try the multi-award winning online reading program for kids aged 2–13. Plus, receive a FREE Rewards Book! Reading Eggs is the perfect way to teach your child to read and prepare them for school. Designed by experienced educators, the program is based on scientific research to improve reading and phonics skills in just 15 minutes a day. In fact, 91% of parents see an improvement within a few short weeks. Perfect for school preparation, whether your child is starting Reception or returning after the summer break, and cleverly designed to grow with your child. • Used in over 193 countries • Over 20 million users • Used in over 12,000 schools • 1.1 million lessons every week BONUS Rewards Book! Valid for new customers only. FREE 30-DAY TRIAL readingeggs.co.uk/bts6 Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial *This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only. Offer limited to one free Rewards Book per family while stocks last.
28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! In a world that's constantly on the move, cycling remains a timeless activity that brings families closer together while promoting a healthy lifestyle. At bikebook, we're not just passionate about bikes – we're dedicated to ensuring every family's cycling journey is as safe as it is enjoyable. Our mission is simple: to connect families with local bicycle mechanics who ensure that their children's bikes are not only ready to ride but also safe. In this article, we'll explore how bikebook your families’ bikes are safe to ride, and we'll delve into the importance of wellmaintained bikes and safety measures for night time riding. There's nothing quite like the joy of watching our children pedal down the street with their friend. But as parents, ensuring their safety is paramount. That's where bikebook steps in – our platform simplifies the process of finding a reliable local bicycle mechanic. These skilled professionals specialise in tuning up bikes, inspecting safety features, and ensuring that every nut and bolt is secure. By connecting families with these expert mechanics, bikebook is empowering parents to give their children the gift of safe and worry-free cycling adventures. As we head into autumn and the days get shorter, the dangers of night time riding increase. Riding in the dark poses unique challenges and requires additional safety precautions. Reduced visibility makes it crucial for cyclists to be visible to others on the road. Therefore, it is imperative that your children’s bikes have the proper lighting for the conditions. Just as stars light up the night sky, bike lights and reflectors illuminate the road, ensuring that cyclists are seen by drivers and pedestrians alike. Bike lights and reflectors are a cyclist's best friends when the sun dips below the horizon. Reflectors bounce back light from vehicles, making cyclists visible from a distance. At bikebook, we recommend outfitting bikes with reflectors on wheels, pedals, and handlebars. But don't stop there! Adding front and rear lights is equally vital. A white light on the front signals your presence to oncoming traffic, while a red light at the back warns those behind you. The synergy between reflectors and lights creates a protective shield that envelops cyclists in a warm glow of safety, even in the darkest of nights. In a world full of fast-paced adventures, cycling provides families with a timeless way to bond and explore. With bikebook's dedication to connecting families with local bicycle mechanics, parents can ensure their children's bikes are in tip-top shape for every journey. Moreover, our commitment to promoting safety extends to night ime cycling, where lights and reflectors become the stars guiding cyclists through the night. So, saddle up, families, and let bikebook be your guiding light to safer and more memorable cycling experiences. Safety when riding your bike at night Bicycle servicing made easy!
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 29 Helping Kids Shine The TASTY, EASY way to get vitamins into little people We all want our little ones to shine in life! Haliborange Softies are a great way to support your child’s growth and development, providing some essential nutrients they need every day. Haliborange softies are available in a range of formats and flavours to ensure your little ones top up their vitamins every day without fuss. Scan to learn more about Haliborange
30 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! COMPETITIONS
31 Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Website Member E-newsletter emailed monthly with latest offers and events Download vouchers and save £££’s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Become a Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2022 Mojo Publishing Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage & retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the publishers. All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission.Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses which are featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. Printed by Gemini Print.
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 32 raring2go.co.uk
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