Tchaikovsky - the life and times of a troubled genius

Book a place on this weekend before 31 January 2011 and receive a £50 gift voucher to spend on a booking in our 2012 Programme. To make a booking ring 033 3456 8580 or email us today!

Tchaikovsky - the life and times of a troubled genius (Part One) with Julian Williamson 16-18 December 2011.

Rag rug making in Kirstie's Homemade Home on Channel 4

If you missed Farncombe rag rug tutor Debbie Siniska in the last programme of the series, you can still watch it on Channel 4oD - click here for programme information.

Those contemplating signing up for Debbie Siniska’s craft course at the 370-acre Farncombe Estate in the Cotswolds get a sneaky preview of what the weekend will entail when she featured on Channel 4’s Kristie’s Homemade Home.

Debbie teaches the traditional techniques of hooky, proggy and proddy, and viewers who want to also learn the art of rag rug making can sign up for her course at Farncombe Estate which is held over the Friday and weekend of 8 April 2011.

That unique Christmas gift is only a phone call away!

Do something different this Christmas and give your friends and family a weekend course at Farncombe Estate.

You can choose the course yourself from the huge range on offer, or you can give them vouchers and let them choose for themselves. Either way, they will be delighted with the gift!

It's a wonderful present to give, and it's only a phone call away.

Call 033 3456 8580 or visit our website to find out about our Farncombe Estate Gift Voucher offer 2010.

Voice Workshops with Dan Evans 2011

Dan Evans was told as a child that he couldn't sing and was made to mime in the school choir. Later, in adult life he attended a number of voice workshops which transformed his musical career. He now performs professionally in the UK and USA singing with dulcimer and guitar. "Dan has a rare talent for getting the very best out of people" "Dan - the Voice Whisperer"

This voice workshop will help your to find your voice and project it with ease and confidence. You may feel you can't sing or you may be an established singer of any level, style or genre. No former musical knowledge is required. You will be shown how to listen carefully, in order to sing in tune. You will learn how to breathe effectively to sustain notes and you will be taught the powerful open-throated calling technique to project your voice. You will experiment with arrangements to make songs come to life and you will be shown how to sing from the heart, moving others with your song. Through a carefully balanced mixture of relaxation, laughter, breathing, listening, best practice vocal technique and lots of confidence development, participants frequently progress more than they thought possible and are sometimes moved. Everyone can sing and it's great fun.

"Everyone Can Sing - A Voice Workshop" will be taking place at Farncombe Estate on 5 dates in 2011 - click here to enquire about the Voice Workshops with Dan Evans .

Great gift ideas for Christmas ... Farncombe voucher offer ends this week!

Purchase Farncombe Gift Vouchers to the value of £100 or more and we will give you a £25 gift voucher absolutely free ! To claim your free voucher simply quote “Gift4U” at time of ordering – you can purchase your vouchers online or by phone to 033 3456 8580.

This offer is valid on gift voucher purchases made before 5pm 16 December 2010. Only one free £25 voucher can be claimed per person.

Click here to read more about our Special Gift Voucher Offer - offer ends this week !!

Phoenix Theatre Group present ...

"JACK & THE BEANSTALK"
(A Pantomime)

AT

EVESHAM ARTS CENTRE

ON

WEDNESDAY 19TH JANUARY TO SUNDAY 23RD JANUARY 2011
AT 7.30PM (MATINEE'S ON 22ND & 23RD AT 2.30PM)

TICKETS £10

ONLINE : www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk
IN PERSON : THE ALMONRY MUSEUM EVESHAM
GROUP BOOKINGS (10+) CALL : 07910 499589

Voice of America: A VERY SPECIAL DEAL FOR TENORS !

Voice of America: A Choral Weekend at Farncombe with Jeremy Jackman, 11 to 13 February 2011

A VERY SPECIAL DEAL FOR TENORS: We have a strong group booked for the weekend with plenty of sopranos, altos and basses but we need tenors to make this weekend the success it should be. If you are a tenor who can join us as a non-resident, you will be welcome at a special fee for the weekend, tuition, food, refreshments etc, Friday evening to Sunday lunchtime, £70 (reduced from £163).

This is your chance to join in the recent explosion of interest in American choral music. Jeremy Jackman - no stranger to American vocal repertoire - will lead the course through music with and without accompaniment by Morten Lauridsen, Eric Whittaker (his part-song 'Sleep' is to die for), Aaron Copland and Randall Thompson. We will also sing Agnus Dei by Samuel Barber, the composer's own arrangement of his famous 'Adagio'. Don't miss this opportunity to explore some of America's loveliest and liveliest music under the direction of one of Britain's liveliest (but not loveliest) choral directors.

Jeremy Jackman is a leading figure in English choral music and has inspired many thousands of music-lovers throughout the world. As a much sought-after choral director, he is able to draw on his experience as a chorister, lay clerk and free lance soloist as well as 10 exciting years with the King's Singers when he performed in all the major concert venues around the world. He is musical director of the English Baroque Choir, the Cecilian Singers (Leicester) and chorus master of OSJ Voices. Jeremy is frequently invited to give workshops and masterclasses with established choirs both in the UK and abroad. He is a noted composer and arranger and his music has been performed from Twickenham to Taipei. He directs workshops and rehearsals for The Really Big Chorus. He hopes that participants will leave Farncombe feeling refuelled and eager to put new ideas and techniques into practice.

For more information about Farncombe go to http://www.farncombeestate.co.uk/ or ring 033 3456 8580.

Voice of America: Choral Weekend - Singing Courses

Receive a £50 gift voucher when you book a weekend course 16-18 December 2011

Book a 2 night course taking place 16-18 December 2011 and receive a £50 gift voucher to spend on a booking in our 2012 Programme.

Choose from:

• Tchaikovsky - the life and times of a troubled genius (Part One) (Julian Williamson)
• O magnum mysterium music for a Spanish Christmas for voices and viols (Alison Crum & Peter Syrus)
• Watercolours: Drawing Skills with Pencil and Brush (Roger Jones)
  
  Offer ends by 31 January 2011.
  
  Call 033 3456 8580 for more details or visit our website calendar here

Book a weekend course in February 2011 for £99

Special Non-Residential Rate of £99 is available for courses taking place 11-13 February 2011:

Family History - Tracing Your Ancestors
Lacemaking: Tantalising Torchon

For more details call 033 3456 8580 or visit our website here

A free weekend for #1000 for 2011 !

Between now and the end of 2010 we anticipate taking our 1000th booking on a 2011 weekend event. To celebrate this event we would like to reward the person who books the 1000th place and pays their deposit with a free place on a 2 night course and whilst they are here they will receive a box of chocolates and bottle of bubbly in their room. We would also like to reward our 999th and 1001st bookers with a £50 gift voucher.

To make your booking call 033 3456 8580 !

Special Offers, Last Minute Discounts and new courses from Farncombe Estate

Foxhill Manor - Farncombe Estate - the perfect Cotswold Wedding venue

To request a free brochure call Ellie Jones on 033 3456 8580 or email elliej@farncombeestate.co.uk

Julia Baker

Julia Baker is a highly qualified and experienced clinical aromatherapist with her own practice at home in Lapworth Warwickshire. Her work includes treating clients with a variety of conditions, doing massage in the workplace, teaching short courses and giving talks to groups. Julia is a member of the International Federation of Clinical Aromatherapists and chairwoman of one of their regional groups. She coordinates regular training meetings for them. Julia holds a qualification as an Aromatologist. This more medical use of essential oils involving neat topical application and internal use is unusual in the UK but well known in France. Practitioners of aromatology need detailed knowledge of essential oil chemistry and of safe blending techniques.

For more information about Julia Baker visit her new website http://www.juliabakeraromatherapy.com/

For more details on workshops and courses with Julia please visit our website
here or call 033 3456 8580.

The new Farncombe Estate Nature Diary Calendar has arrived !

The new Farncombe Estate 2011 A4 Calendar has arrived and limited numbers are available for sale.

Cost £8.00 including postage and packing.

For more details ring Lesley on 01386 858000 or email enquiries@FarncombeEstate.co.uk

Try something new in 2011 - Day Courses in the Cotswolds at Farncombe Estate

A series of 1-day short courses (usually 9.30-4.30) in subjects from Digital Photography to Perfumery, Quilting to Life Coaching, Gardening to Wine Tasting. The full list of day courses is given on our website here.

1-day course fees include refreshments and a 3-course lunch.

Day students can also stay overnight - price includes 3-course evening meal and full English breakfast. To check availability call 01386 854100 or email Stay@FarncombeEstate.co.uk

Expert tuition, fabulous surroundings - Painting Courses in the Cotswolds 2011

From 1 day courses to longer painting breaks, choose from : Acrylic Painting, Watercolour Painting, How to Draw / Paint Portraits, Oil Painting, Landscape Painting, Drawing with Pen & Wash, Silk Painting, Coloured Pencil Techniques, Drawing Caricatures, Drawing Animals, Still Life Painting, Life Drawing & more ...

Click here to view the list of forthcoming painting courses in the Cotswolds or call 033 3456 8580.

Creative Writing courses in the Cotswolds

In the inspiring environment of Farncombe Estate - bring written words to life!

Our Creative Writing courses will help you develop your skills, gain a deeper appreciation or put a work and its author into their historical context.

Some weekends also include performance or theatre visits.

Click here for the full list of our Literature & Writing Courses in 2011 or call 033 3456 8580 for more details.

Sounds of Simon and Garfunkel 11-13 November

Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel met at primary school; starting their musical journey together in the imaginatively named 'Tom and Jerry' band in the mid 1950's before becoming one of the most influential musical duos of the Greenwich Village folk rock scene in the 1960s. In a tempestuous creative relationship that lasted 5 years, they produced 5 albums of memorable songs and the soundtrack to the iconic film The Graduate. Known for their close vocal harmonies, finely-crafted melodies and evocative writing about New York, there are many treasures to discover as we join experienced vocalist Jo Sercombe for a weekend of fun, relaxation and great songs as we sing our way through Simon & Garfunkel old favourites and lesser known tracks. Suitable for male and female voices, some harmony singing experience is advisable but you don't need to be able to read music notation.

Book well in advance for this weekend course at Farncombe with Jo Sercombe - 11-13 November 2011 - call 033 3456 8580 or email enquiries@farncombeestate.co.uk

Sounds of Simon and Garfunkel - Singing Courses

Drawing Pets & Animals with Pencil : 1-day course

This is a one day course aimed at beginners and/or students with some experience of using graphite (lead) pencil as a drawing medium. Using photographs supplied by the tutor, the students will be taught skills and techniques such as basic pencil drawing and shading, drawing fur, eyes, ears and noses. The skills and techniques learnt on the course can be used to draw effective and realistic pictures of your favourite pets and wildlife subjects too. The course will also cover all the tools and materials that can be used with graphite pencils. The aims of the course are to introduce the students to the many different skills, techniques and subjects to do with pets and wildlife and how to draw them using graphite pencil from photographs supplied by the tutor.

This one day course takes place at Farncombe Estate on 8 January 2011 with Jonathan Newey - to check availability call 033 3456 8580 or email enquiries@farncombeestate.co.uk

Pet/Animal Techniques with Graphite (lead) Pencil - Art Day Course - Day Courses

Sheep on the Hills - Wool on their Backs - A History Weekend Course at Farncombe

The medieval wool trade and woollen cloth manufacture impacted on the English landscape particularly that of the Cotswolds as sheep from this area contributed significantly to the economic strength of medieval England.

Wool was one of the main sources of England’s prosperity in the middle and early post-middle ages. Historical sources and evidence from the landscape tell us about the value of wool production, exports to Flanders and Italy; fortunes made from the wool trade survive in the form of the great wool churches, earthworks, place names, pack routes to the ports and homes of the wool merchants and clothiers

Discover more on this weekend course with Graham Winton 26-28 November 2010

Sheep on the Hills - Wool on their Backs - History, Family History & Architecture

London: Portrait of a City with William Tyler

London has been our most important city since Roman times. We shall trace the story of this great city from that moment through to the present day. We shall take an overview of this long history whilst also focussing in on specific events in that story, such as the city's development in The Middle Ages as an economic powerhouse, and the development of local government in the same period. Later we shall see the role of the city in The Civil War of the 1640s, and the development of banking. More modern times will see the rise of and decline of The London Docks and London during the Blitz. Along the way we shall meet a rich galaxy of characters and personalities.

We only have 3 places for this course 9-11 December 2011 - to enquire about booking call 033 3456 8580

London: Portrait of a City - History, Family History & Architecture

Wedding at Farncombe Estate - Discover more at our Wedding Fayre 2011

We will be holding our first ever Wedding Fayre on 30 January 2011 at Foxhill Manor on the Farncombe Estate.

For more details please call 033 3456 8580 or email elliej@farncombeestate.co.uk

For request more details visit our website

Reflections of Venice in Watercolour - Painting Course with Paul Weaver

Venice continues to inspire thousands of artists with its magnificent architecture, canals and atmospheric light. For anyone considering a painting trip to this magical city this course will get your creative ideas flowing. Paul will guide you through his techniques for simplifying complex architecture, the colourful weathered walls, canals, reflections, bustling squares and narrow streets in a free, impressionistic style. All reference provided.
Aimed at intermediate level students.

Farncombe Estate - Reflections of Venice in Watercolour - Click here for further details

Last chance to book for Le Week-End Francais !

A weekend with a group of Francophiles, keen to discuss in French not only what is happening in France today, but also to explore the political, literary and artistic importance of the inter-war years,1918-1939, our focal point for this weekend. This will be introduced and developed by your tutor and visiting speaker.There is no set reading list,but you may find it helpful to have done some purely optional background reading before the course.Some suggestions will gladly be sent to you on request.

There will be an opportunity for you to tell us in a short presentation (max 5 mins) what interests you specially about this period,or more generally what French books, films etc you may have seen or read recently.

Course takes place with Celia Weber at Farncombe 20-22 May 2011 - enquire online or call 033 3456 8580.

Le Week-End Francais at Farncombe Estate - click here for further details

Laughter Workshop - Last chance to book !

Laughter is the music of the soul. During a laughter session, through a collection of exercises, you will experience a heightened sense of well being, feel relaxed, with a reduction in stress levels and experience an uplift of energy. Laughter boosts your immune system, and increases positivity & creativity. Most importantly, it reduces stress. You will leave the workshops feeling both relaxed and energized. You don't have to possess a sense of humour to attend, as the brain cannot differentiate between 'real' laughter and structured laughter. The effects on the body are just the same, as it releases the 'feel good' endorphins. You will take away simple techniques to use anytime. Laughter breaks down barriers and unleashes inhibitions, teaching you to be playful and reconnected with your sense of self.

Workshop takes place 9th April 2011 - enquire online or call 033 3456 8580.

Laughter Workshop at Farncombe Estate - click here for further details

Valerie Oxley's Botanical Illustration course - Drawing and Painting Spring Flowers - Last chance to book !

A delightful course for people who would like to capture early spring flowers in pencil and watercolour paint. Each stage carefully explained and demonstrations will be followed up with individual tuition. Suitable for beginners as well as those with some experience who would like to improve and refresh their techniques. The course will include a session on colour theory and how to mix and match colours accurately to obtain a lifelike representation of the plant. Composition and placement of the plant on the page will be discussed. No previous experience of art or botany is required to enjoy this course.

Course takes place 15-17 April 2011 - enquire online or call 033 3456 8580.

Botanical Illustration - Drawing and Painting Spring Flowers at Farncombe Estate - Click here for further details

Castles of Britain: A Guide to Exploration and Interpretation

Beetling ramparts, mighty keeps, palatial halls - Britain's medieval castles are still among the most awe-inspiring structures in the land. But that's not the whole story - a castle was a home, a business, an expression of lordship and even a fashion accessory. This course aims to get under the skin of castles, by seeing them in the wider context of society, politics and the overall history of fortification. An excursion will be included, and scores of beautiful slides to convince you that here are come of mankind's greatest architectural achievements. We see how the focus gradually shifted from displays of military stregnth to an expression of economic mastery. The political evolutions from Norman to Tudor times explain this. It's all about rulers, and the way they present themselves to their subjects, castles are manifestos in stone, which can be read like a book.

Castles of Britain: A Guide to Exploration and Interpretation is a 3 night course tutored by Tim Porter at Farncombe 22-25 July 2011.

Enquire online or call 033 3456 8580.


Farncombe Estate - Castles of Britain: A Guide to Exploration and Interpretation (3 nights) - Click here for further details ...

Farncombe tutor Debbie Siniska on Channel 4 TV with Kirstie Allsopp

Farncombe Estate tutor Debbie Siniska will be appearing on Kirstie Allsopp's Channel 4 television series, "Kirstie's Homemade Home".

Following numerous requests via Twitter, the TV production company were searching for a rag rug tutor and Debbie was approached to demonstrate the craft.

Filming took place in London and Debbie's home studio, and a rug commissioned by the programme will appear in her new book, "Rag Rugs, Old into New, the art of creative textile recycling" available from December 2010.

The new series of Kirstie's Homemade Home will be broadcast on Channel 4 from 2nd November 2010. Debbie and the rag-rug will be featured in the last episode of the series teaching Kirsty how to do "proggy".

For more details about Debbie visit Farncombe's website or to order her new book visit http://www.debbiesiniska.co.uk/

Discover the Emotional Freedom Technique, EFT: An Introductory Workshop with Kate Zuill

Emotional Freedom Technique is an amazingly effective treatment which involves gently tapping energy points around the body whilst focusing on emotional or physical issues. Yes – most definitely physical as well.

Everything that has ever happened to us is stored somewhere in the body. Any negative emotions, stress or trauma we have experienced may manifest in turn in the form of an illness, emotional issues or physical pain or just something that holds us back.

EFT can address these issues stored in the body releasing emotional pain as well as physical pain with sometimes breathtaking results. Other times it is a gradual peeling away of related issues with no less staggering results. If relief is swift there will very likely be other issues connected that too need addressing.

A 1 day EFT course with Kate Zuill takes place on 2 dates in 2011 at Farncombe - visit our website for further details or contact 033 3456 8580.



Emotional Freedom Technique, EFT: An Introductory Workshop - Health & Well-being

Free Cello Recital with James Halsey and Nigel Clayton at Farncombe

International pianist Nigel Clayton will be joining James Halsey at Farncombe Estate on Saturday 27 November.

An evening recital will take place from 8pm which will include the Sonata in A major by Beethoven and pieces by Kenneth Leighton, Tartini and Faure.

Tickets for the recital are free but please make a reservation in advance - call 033 3456 8580 or email enquiries@farncombeestate.co.uk.

Adult Residential Courses for Lifelong Learning

Farncombe Estate Centre is situated in the North of the Cotswolds just outside the beautiful village of Broadway.

On most weekends throughout the year, we host a range of short weekend courses (residential or non-residential), leisure breaks, day courses and other events for all interests ranging from Arts and Crafts to Music, Singing, History, Writing and Yoga. These leisure breaks are designed for adults, but accompanied younger students are also welcome.

We are situated in a stunning location on the North Cotswold hills overlooking the Vale of Evesham. The Estate covers 300 acres and has 53 ensuite well furnished bedrooms so our students can choose to book bed and breakfast if they wish.

For more details visit our website Adult Residential Courses for Lifelong Learning or www.arca.uk.net

King Alfred: The Fact and the Fantasy - A new weekend course at Farncombe for 2011

With Tim Porter 21 - 23 January 2011.

Soldier, scholar, reformer – that is an unusual combination at the best of times. For a hereditary ruler, you’d be lucky to find it once in a thousand years. Yet Alfred stepped into English History at its moment of worst crisis, and deployed these qualities to memorable effect. Today, we must try to decide why, when and how! This course aims to unpick the threads and reveal the real Alfred. We also look at his reputation, trying to understand why every subsequent age has needed to re-invent him in its own image. Issues to be examined include: How far can we trust the original sources? How much of Alfred’s image was self-created? What was the extent of his scholarship? Where did the decisive battles take place? Using slides, maps and even music, we also look at the strange statues and monuments whereby later generations turned man into myth, and the haunting landscapes which still survive.


King Alfred: The Fact and the Fantasy - History, Family History & Architecture

Treat yourself or someone special : Look Good, Feel Fantastic !

Take the stressing out of dressing and discover the practical secrets of cost effective shopping with this 1 day course with Sue Pattinson.

On this inspirational and thought provoking day Sue will take you through the essential elements of a flattering wardrobe and give objective professional advice to help you make the best choices.
Sue will give lots of tips on your best colours, shapes, lengths, patterns and fabrics. The day covers where to shop for your personality and how to plan a wardrobe that works for your whole life.

For more details please call 033 3456 8580 or visit Look Good, Feel Fantastic, Part 1 - Health & Well-being and book online.

EAC Over 60s Art Awards 2010 -11

The EAC's annual Over 60s Art Awards competition is now open, with a closing date for entries of 4th March 2011. For the first time in its 17 year history, the exhibition will be held out of London, at the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists' RBSA Gallery in Birmingham, from 10th - 21st May 2011.

For an Entry Form and competition rules visit website www.eacartawards.org.uk which has been updated and also contains all the information you need to enter the competition as well as an extensive gallery of recent finalists' work. A large number of people entered on-line last year and this facility is available again this year.

Observing the Universe - Gain a deeper understanding of the Universe in which we live

In this course with Ian Morison the latest observations will be used to show how our Universe has evolved since the Big Bang and how the stars and galaxies came into being so that, later, solar systems could form with planets capable of supporting life. There will be practical exercises which will include the evolution of stars, the distances to nearby stars and measuring the age of the Universe. In addition a survey will be given of the instruments that one can buy to make your own observations, and a number of telescopes will be provided so that, if clear, you can make observations with these and your own instruments. If cloudy, we will carry out some "virtual observing" and give a gentle introduction to digital astro-imaging.

Course is tutored at Farncombe 3-5 December 2010 (see our website for a special offer on non-residential bookings).

Observing the Universe - General Interests

Start your New Year in New Voice - Everyone Can Sing - A Voice Workshop for All !

This ever-popular course with Dan Evans will help your to find your voice and project it with ease and confidence. You may feel you can't sing or you may be an established singer of any level, style or genre. No former musical knowledge is required. You will be shown how to listen carefully, in order to sing in tune. You will learn how to breathe effectively to sustain notes and you will be taught the powerful open-throated calling technique to project your voice. You will experiment with arrangements to make songs come to life and you will be shown how to sing from the heart, moving others with your song. Through a carefully balanced mixture of relaxation, laughter, breathing, listening, best practice vocal technique and lots of confidence development, participants frequently progress more than they thought possible and are sometimes moved. Everyone can sing and it's great fun.

Course takes place 7-9 January 2011 - call 033 3456 8580 or book online :
Everyone Can Sing - A Voice Workshop - Singing Courses

Folk Music in the Cotswolds - book early to save 15% on the Yukka Folk Weekend 2011 !

The best folk music weekend in the UK returns to Farncombe 1- 3 April 2011 !

Internationally renowned tutors Cormac Byrne - bodhran/percussion (Uiscedwr, Seth Lakeman), and Anna Esslemont - fiddle (Uiscedwr) are proud to present The Yukka Folk Weekend.

Now in it's third year, this course brings musicians together to learn how to arrange folk tunes for performance. Through entirely practical learning you will discover how to create texture, variety and interest in your folk music arrangements. Over the weekend you will be working with experienced tutors on arranging two pieces to perform at an informal concert on the Sunday. Open to all instruments. Accommodation subject to availability - book early and save *15% per person - visit our website or call 0333 456 8580.

Other courses available with Frankie Armstrong, Sarah Allen, Cormac Byrne, Anna Esslemont, Stuart Marshall & Karen Tweed.


* Special offer valid on bookings for the Yukka Folk weekend received before 15/12/2010. Please quote "EarlyYukka" at time of booking. Offer cannot be back-dated or used in conjunction with any other special offer.

Folk Music in the Cotswolds - book early to save 15% on the Yukka Folk Weekend 2011 !

BARGIN HUNTERS..........................

Time is running out for our special offers following our 2011 Brochure Launch.

If you fancy coming along to do a course at Farncombe Estate, receive up to £15 discount on your booking.

Please call 033 3456 8580 today and quote DISW11 for a weekend course and receive £15 and DISD11 for a day school and receive £5 off.

This special offer is valid until 5pm today!! (20th Oct 2010)

Cinema & guitars at WAW this weekend!

7.30pm, Friday 22 October – doors open at 7pm

The Splendid Cinema

Couscous

Directed by Abdel Kechiche

France 2007 - Colour – 154 mins - Cert 15

Habib Boufares, Hafsia Herzi, Faridah Benkhetache
Winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival 2007 and the 2008 César Award for Best French film, Couscous is a family drama focusing on the travails of an ageing North African émigré who, after being made redundant from his shipyard job, attempts to realise his dream of opening a restaurant. While the restaurant gets caught up in bureaucratic red tape, the tensions and connections that make or break a family are brought bubbling to the surface.

Tickets: £5 on the door or reserve by contacting Box Office tel: 01905 21095
or e-mail: info.waw@eurotelonline.com


7.30pm, Saturday 23 October – doors open at 6.45pm

Worcester Classical Guitar Society –

Haley Savage & Dimitris Dekavallas

Classical guitarists Hayley Savage and Dimitris Dekavallas share the stage this year in a tour de force duo, combining Hayley’s internationally recognised talents as a composer with the flair, virtuosity and exuberant musicality of the widely-acclaimed and multiple award-winning Greek guitarist Dimitris.

Both players are former winners of the Ivor Mairants Guitar Award and have come together to perform a new work by Hayley. Their programme promises to be exciting ad show the level that the classical guitar has now reached on the world stage.

Tickets: £8 (£6), under 16’s free Box Office tel: 01886 832715

Website: http://www.worcesterguitar.co.uk/

How to Use a Sewing Machine - one day workshop

On this one day workshop, students will be shown how to get the most from a sewing machine. They will see how they like sewing - by using their own machine or one of ours, with assistance, through demonstration & 'hands on'.

The day will teach you what can be achieved with the push of the pedal & controls. You will see samples & other projects, along with how to achieve those results.

Click here for details of other courses at Farncombe Estate with Sue Hazell

Discount offer for Christmas Craft Fair visitors

Visitors to our Craft Fair can pick up a £15 discount voucher code for any weekend course on any subject and £5 for any day course on any subject.

The unique voucher code must be quoted at the time of booking and valid for bookings made before 5.00 pm on Friday 3 December.

For details about the Fair or other Christmas events at Farncombe, visit Christmas Art & Craft Fair - Christmas & New Year or call 033 3456 8580.

Date for the diary - Farncombe Christmas Art and Craft Fair : Farncombe Estate

Creative ideas for Christmas decorations and the chance to do a bit of early shopping for the festive break are on offer at the Farncombe Estate Christmas Art & Craft Fair which takes place next month on 21 November 2010 from 10.30 to 3.30pm.

This is the 2nd year the fair has been held and local suppliers have jumped at the chance to display their hand-made crafts and produce with 55 exhibitors in total already taking part, all of them local and many not selling their products elsewhere.

Admission is free and visitors will not only have the chance to purchase a wide range of bespoke gifts but will also be able to take part in taster workshops that give a sample of what the Estate has to offer from its programme of courses both for the remainder of this year and from the recently launched 2011 programme.

In addition to purchasing gifts and taking part and signing up for courses, visitors can also buy the recently launched range of Farncombe gift vouchers. The gift vouchers start from £5.00 and can be used against any of the 230 courses available including day workshops and residential courses over a weekend. For a limited period leading up to Christmas 2010, Farncombe is offering readers £25 of extra gift vouchers free, when they purchase £100 or more.

Further information is available by calling 0333 456 8580.

Date for the diary - Farncombe Christmas Art and Craft Fair : Farncombe Estate

Your chance to win a fantastic break in Worcestershire for you and your family

Your chance to win a fantastic break in Worcestershire for you and your family with Destination Worcestershire.

The Prize Draw will close on November 19th 2010 for your chance to win

£200 Voucher to use against a Course with Farncombe Estate
Family Tickets for a Santa Steam Special at Severn Valley Railway
Family Tickets for a Santa Safari at West Midland Safari Park
£50 Voucher for Fusion Brasserie, Stoulton, Nr Worcester
Family Ticket to Witley Court & Gardens (English Heritage)
Family Tickets for Ice Skating at Webbs, West Hagley
Family Ticket to Hidcote Manor Gardens (National Trust)

For more details visit Autumn Prize Draw

Start your New Year with a bang - Go Gospel! with Jo Sercombe

Start your New Year with a bang by joining a gospel choir for the weekend! Experienced gospel choir director Jo Sercombe will take you through a variety of gospel repertoire from early spirituals to contemporary American gospel; helping you to free your voice and create that special gospel vocal sound. We're gonna be singing, we're gonna be swaying, we're gonna be clapping - and by the time Jo's finished with you, you'll be energised and ready to conquer the year ahead! No previous singing experience or ability to read music notation required, just a desire to make a joyful noise!

For more details of Go Gospel and other courses with Jo Sercombe visit Jo Sercombe's page on the Farncombe Estate website or call 033 3456 8580.

All I want for Christmas is ... Farncombe gift vouchers have something for all

“I loved my few days at Farncombe Estate. What a fabulous setting – a really inspiring place to learn. The programme of activities and lectures for the coming months looks really tempting and I am already thinking of putting my name down for some of them”.

Valerie Singleton

All I want for Christmas is ... Farncombe Estate Gift Vouchers have something for all

Escape to the Cotswolds !

"Escape to the Cotswolds", a new discovery centre opened in Northleach, Gloucestershire (a 30 minute drive from CCC), tells the fascinating story of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and how people have made a natural landscape even more beautiful. It provides an insight into the history of the area along with the work that is being carried out today to conserve and enhance this protected landscape.

Although Escape to the Cotswolds will be closing to the general public for the winter, from 1 November until 31 March, in the meantime, between now and the end of October, you may wish to visit the centre. Admission is free.

For more information about the discovery centre call 01451 862000 or visit http://www.cotswoldaonb.org.uk/.

If you would like a location map of Farncombe Estate please contact enquiries@farncombeestate.co.uk

Be A Real Guitar Hero! Courses with Stuart Marshall at Farncombe 2011

Stuart Marshall is a guitar teacher and musician with over twenty years experience working with students of all ages and abilities. He has already taught hundreds of budding guitarists the secrets of successful playing on his own popular guitar workshops and weekend courses in Cornwall and throughout the UK.

New for Farncombe in 2011 Stuart will be hosting two weekend courses "Be A Real Guitar Hero! The Easy Way to Learning Guitar - For Beginners".

Stuart Marshall

An Introduction to West Gallery Music - June 2011 at Farncombe Estate

Following a thirty year teaching career Francis Roads has devoted himself to researching, editing and performing West Gallery music. In 1997 he founded London Gallery Quire, which performs West Gallery services and concerts throughout the London area. Francis has been in demand for many workshops and similar events throughout England, the USA and France. Francis brings a new weekend course to Farncombe in 2011 -"An Introduction to West Gallery Music".

Francis Roads

Make your own Perfume - and other unusual gift ideas from Farncombe

Alec Lawless, perfumer, will be running two one-day "Make your own Perfume" workshops at Farncombe in 2011.

Alec developed Essentially Me's range of sophisticated perfumes from his passion for natural fragrance.

His book, "Artisan Perfumery or Being Led by the Nose" was published last year & he will shortly appear in a TV documentary on Victorian Pharmacy.

Alec Lawless

Portraits of British Farm Animals - one day art workshops in the Cotswolds

Animal artist Alexandra Woods specialises in portraits of British farm animals capturing the essence of their spirit.

Exhibitions include Affordable Art Fair, Air Gallery London, Broadway Modern, CCA Galleries, Chelsea Art Fair, New Brewery Arts Cirencester, River Cottage HQ, Smiths of Smithfield London, Sphere Gallery London. Alexandra will be tutoring 2 one-day "Portraits of British Farm Animals" workshops at Farncombe in 2011.

Alexandra Woods

The Urban Folk Quartet - Autumn Tour 2010

As the nights draw in and winter approaches…do something that will cheer you up...


Come and see The Urban Folk Quartet on their autumn UK tour which starts next week!


Click here for details . Very best wishes from the UFQ!

Call for Artists working in the Public Realm / Public Artists

Project Dandelion is the BSF Public Art programme for the City of Wolverhampton. Dandelion will create opportunities and exposure for the best of contemporary visual and performance artists through a highly visible and high profile public art project in Wolverhampton.
Opportunities will include atrium pieces, event-led activity, exhibitions, indoor and outdoor commissions, small and large scale. This is a dynamic and ambitious programme of Public Art in schools that will work with and promote artists and art of the highest quality. As well as being commissioned to design, create and install the artwork varying degrees of consultation and participation will be required. This will be designed in collaboration with each individual artist and will be tailored to be project and commission specific.

We are building a stable/pool of artists who work principally within the field of Public Art. We are creating opportunities for artists that work in photography, film, video, painting, sculpture, glass, metal, wood and other media, based in the UK. Opportunities will also be developed for performing artists to include live art, theatre, music and literature, although these will be fewer.
Selection to the stable/pool is no guarantee of being commissioned. The opportunity is time limited as the stable/pool will be operational until summer 2012, at which point we will wish to refresh the submissions.

If you are successful we will notify you by email. Unfortunately, we will not be unable to contact artists who are unsuccessful.

Project Dandelion is working with 16,000 pupils, across 23 secondary schools over four phases over 4 years as part of Building Schools for the Future in Wolverhampton. Our budget is being provided by Carillion as a per cent for art scheme and the schools, Wolverhampton City Council will be the owners the work at the end of the project.

If you are a professional artist based in the UK please send the following information on a CD Rom (please no email submissions) in order to be considered:

1. Artists Statement no more than 500 words (hard copy and on CD)
2. CV, that includes education, track record, commission and exhibition history (hard copy and on CD)
3. 15 images of your work drawn from a maximum of 5 projects/commissions (sent as 10” X 8” X 300 DPI, JPEG files)
4. Web site address and complete contact information (hard copy and on CD)
5. Indication of commission fees/prices (hard copy and on CD)

Deadline WEDNESDAY 8TH DECEMBER 2010.

Please send to Nicola Shipley, 302 The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham B9 4AA

Last chance to save on bookings for 2011 and other news from Farncombe

Our 2011 brochure launch discounts end 20 October so book today to save £15 on all weekend courses in 2011 or £5 or more on 2011 day courses.

These discounts can only be claimed by phone. Quote "DISW11" for weekend bookings and call 033 3456 8580. For further offer details and other discounts for day courses - visit our website http://www.farncombeestate.co.uk/ .

Special offer on December courses 2010

Receive a 15% discount on selected weekend courses taking place 10-12 December and 17-19 December 2010.

To check availability and the list of courses on offer please visit our website www.FarncombeEstate.co.uk/December and quote 'XMAS10' when you book.

Both these offers end 5.00pm on 20 October - call 033 3456 8580 or email enquiries@FarncombeEstate.co.uk today

Last chance to save on bookings for 2011 and other news from Farncombe

Broadway based security firm based at Farncombe Estate raises £40,000 for charity (From Evesham Journal)

A BROADWAY based security firm has helped to raise £40,000 for a children’s charity.

G4S Integrated Services, which is based at Farncombe Estate, lent its support to Cotswold children’s charity Winston’s Wish by sponsoring the half way point of its annual Sunrise Walk.

Almost 300 walkers set off from Cheltenham Racecourse at 6am on Saturday, September 25, on the 10-mile circuit and raised in excess of £40,000 for the charity.

Staff from G4S were at the heart of the event, handing out water for the thirsty walkers at the halfway point.

Chris Elliott, group managing director of G4S Integrated Services, said: “We are very pleased to be able to lend our support to this charity event. With a record number of walkers taking part in this annual event, our employees were on hand to help supply the walkers with their much needed halfway refreshments helping them on their way to raising the estimated £40,000 target.”

Kate Acutt, corporate and trusts manager at Winston’s Wish, added: “We are very proud to have the support of G4S.

“The Sunrise Walk is our flagship event and to have their support is fantastic. The sponsorship from G4S ensures that more money raised on the day goes directly towards our work with bereaved children.

“Every walker also received a bottle of water, which was greatly welcomed at the half way point! We would like to thank all the employees at G4S for all their support.”

Security firm raises £40,000 for charity (From Evesham Journal)

Bed & Breakfast accommodation, Farncombe Estate, Cotswolds

Stay at Cotswold Conference Centre, Farncombe Estate
Your bedroom is one of 53 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms from four locations on the Estate. These are sympathetically set in 300 breathtaking acres of Cotswold scenery.

Unwinding has never been easier.

To enquire about Bed & Breakfast accommodation please email Stay@FarncombeEstate.co.uk or call 01386 858000.

Your room has everything you need from a Colour TV to tea/coffee making facilities, a hairdryer and a study area.

Additionally, two of our four locations have a comfortable lounge for relaxing and socialising with friends. We have a number of dedicated ground floor rooms with wheelchair access. It’s all here to make your stay as good as possible.

53 en-suite rooms
Colour TV with radio, programmable telephone with wake-up alarm, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, study area, linen & toiletries provided
Separate lounges for socialising
Dedicated rooms for the disabled
Ample FREE parking
All of our bedrooms have ensuite showers, but not all have baths. Please let us know if you prefer a bath.

Bed & Breakfast accommodation, Farncombe Estate, Cotswolds

Early Music Courses at Farncombe Estate Broadway

Early Music courses in the Farncombe programme include Recorder Ensembles with Andrew Collis and Viol courses with Alison Crum.

Visit our website for full listings and a free brochure of early music and other making music courses in the Cotswolds 2011 : Early Music - Short Weekend Courses, Leisure Breaks & Events, Farncombe Estate, Broadway, Cotswolds

All I want for Christmas is ...

Farncombe's Gift Vouchers have something for all

“Everybody knows somebody who would enjoy one of our weekend courses”
William Reddaway, Head of Lifelong Learning, Farncombe Estate

The perfect solution for the perennial dilemma of what to buy family and friends for Christmas is the newly launched range of gift vouchers from the Farncombe Estate in the Cotswolds. The gift vouchers start from £5.00 and can be used against any of the 230 courses available including day workshops and residential courses over a weekend. For a limited period leading up to Christmas 2010, Farncombe is offering readers £25 of extra gift vouchers free, when they purchase £100 or more. As a guide – the resulting £125 vouchers would typically buy half a weekend course or 2 separate day ones.

Demand this year has been particularly popular for the areas of singing, music and arts and crafts and with this in mind the organisers have put together a wishlist for Christmas stockings as follows:

PERFECT FOR MUMS:
Soul Divas: Here Come the Girl Groups – Fri 6 – Sun 8 May 2011.
Led by a diva in her own right - Jo Sercombe explores soul melodies and singing back harmonies and vocal techniques that help to create that magic Motown sound. No experience necessary. Perfect for mums caught wielding hairbrushes as microphones and who long to be part of a big girl band.

PERFECT FOR DADS:
Laughter Workshop – Sat 9 April 2011.
Hold onto your sides for this workshop led by Jan Barley who will take you through a collection of exercises to experience a heightened sense of well being. Leave feeling more relaxed and energised with useful exercises to try at home or work. Sense of humour not necessary!

PERFECT FOR BIG BOYS
Be a real guitar hero! The easy way to learn guitar for beginners – Fri 25 – Sun 27 March 2011.
Stuart Marshall encourages you to put down the game controller and pick up the guitar and pledges to have you playing recognizable tunes quickly and painlessly, leapfrogging all the unnecessary boring stuff of theory and scales.

PERFECT FOR BIG GIRLS
Beautiful bedrooms – Sat 17 Sept 2011
Change the look of your bedroom without spending a fortune in this workshop led by Sue Hazell which will even see you dressing a four poster if you so desire.

PERFECT FOR GRANDPARENTS
Family History – Tracing Your Ancestors – Fri 11 – Sun 13 Feb 2011
Course tutor Chris Paton has studied family history for 30 years himself and shares many of the tried and tested techniques to the art over this weekend. Some knowledge of computers a help so silver surfers with laptops and wireless compatibility only to come along for the ride.

The 2011 programme is Farncombe’s eighth year. Gift vouchers can be purchased by calling 0333 456 8580 or ordered online www.farncombeestate.co.uk/gift4u.

Lacemaking: Tantalising Torchon - Crafts & Textiles weekend at Farncombe Estate

Have you ever thought about the myriad possibilities for exciting lacemaking offered by our old friend Torchon? What other lace has over 14 varieties of just one stitch? Over this weekend Jan will lead you in an exploration of this neglected lace type. We will look at the stitches, the use of inventive grids, the scale of work, the control of colour and many other aspects of this beautiful lace. Jan will bring along a selection of designs that will enable students of ALL abilities, from complete beginner to advanced, to get the most out of the experience. Equipment can be borrowed if requested before the event. Materials list provided.

Join Jan Gardiner at Farncombe Estate 11-13 February 2011. To book online visit
Lacemaking: Tantalising Torchon - Crafts & Textiles or call 033 3456 8580.

Using Herbs for Common Health Problems - Health & Well-being

Do you reach for the pharmaceuticals every time you have a health problem?

Sarah Firnberg is holding a one day course at Farncombe Estate on 14 May for people who want to treat day to day health problems naturally, with herbs, nutrients and lifestyle changes.

This fun, interactive and really informative course will cover the following:

Introduction to herbal medicine: An explanation of the medicinal constituents of herbs (lots of smelling, tasting, touching, and feeling).

Herb recognition. Did you know that we are surrounded by plants with medicinal qualities? Weather permitting; we will go on a herb walk.

Natural first aid. Natural medicines are wonderfully versatile. We will discuss a wide variety of preparations. (You will be supplied with notes).

Medicine making: How to make your own salve, poultice and cough syrup.

Safety: How to buy safe products, avoid interactions and when to consult a professional

Using Herbs for Common Health Problems - Health & Well-being

Book Bed & Breakfast - Cotswold Conference Centre at Farncombe Estate, Broadway

The Cotswold Conference Centre is offering some of their 53 double, twin and single en-suite accommodation to people passing through the north Cotswolds. This corporate environment has free wifi in the public areas and plenty of parking. 24 hr manned security is on hand to welcome you if you need to check-in late. Please note: SatNav systems often struggle to find the correct entrance from on the A44 so please download our map off our website and study it to ensure a pleasant arrival experience! All rooms have en-suite facilities, colour tv, radio/alarm and tea and coffee making facilities and include a full English breakfast. The Estate is set in 300 acres of breathtaking scenery and is just a stone's throw from some of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.

Cotswold Conference Centre at Farncombe Estate, Broadway , United Kingdom.

A new way to give to Tourism for All

A new easy way to raise money for Tourism for All that does not involve you parting with extra cash or extra time.

www.Everyclick.com has launched a new way to donate - it's been Christened "Give as you Live".

Just go to http://www.everyclick.com/tourism-for-all-uk/279169/0 and start searching and follow the simple prompts to make this your default search facility.

Cruise operators team up with National Trust

The UK’s three leading discovery cruise lines – Voyages of Discovery, Swan Hellenic and Hebridean Island Cruises – have teamed up with the National Trust to offer members a great range of cruises for 2011.

Book one of these cruises and both you and the Trust benefit : supporters qualify for a 5% discount on fares and 10% of the value of the cruise will be paid to the Trust.

Competitions from SixtyPlusSurfers - October 2010

21 competitions for October 2010 : Competitions & Letters Page

What do you think of the Crafts Council website? Win a £100 Amazon gift voucher

Complete their web survey by 4 October and you will be entered into our prize draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

Click here to complete the survey www.surveymonkey.com/s/CBB9WV6

Christmas Craft Fair - Dinner bed & breakfast £45 per person

Sunday 21 November is a fabulous opportunity to visit Farncombe and pick up some unusual and handmade Christmas gifts.

Open 10.30am - 3.30pm. Admission & car parking are both free. Soup & snacks will be available to purchase from the bar.

Tips and tricks to make your own Christmas gifts !

During the day we are delighted to be offering a number of free craft workshops. For programme details please email Enquiries@FarncombeEstate.co.uk or call 033 3456 8580.

Stay on for dinner bed and breakfast on Sunday night - £45 per person including VAT!

Christmas Art & Craft Fair - Christmas & New Year

Who was St. Nicholas? Tickets £8

Yes, we all know he was the original Santa Claus. But less wellknown is his medieval reputation for pilgrimage and miracles, his popularity in Norman England, and the various bizarre and wonderful stories about him which circulated in the Middle Ages. So leave your red bobble hat at home and come to hear about something infinitely stranger!

Find out more on 17th December with Tim Porter

Who was St. Nicholas? - General Interests

Looking for a meeting venue for your group ?

If you are looking for a meeting venue for a small conference or group event, Farncombe Estate Centre offers superb room facilities and the highest standard of equipment and support services. With ensuite bedrooms we can also offer weekend and off-peak dates at very special rates. For more details about the Centre facilities please click here

Farncombe Estate is situated in an excellent location in the Midlands, and is a Centre dedicated to meeting and learning. You will find everything you need on site, together with ample free car parking and stunning views.

24 Hour Delegate Rate

Includes - 3 course dinner with coffee, overnight accommodation, full English breakfast, working buffet or 3 course lunch in the dining room, tea, coffee and biscuits throughout the day. Main meeting room hire with AV equipment in that room, FREE syndicate room.

Day Delegate Rate

Includes - 3 course lunch in the dining room, tea, coffee and biscuits throughout the day. Main meeting room hire with AV equipment in that room, FREE syndicate room.

Meetings & Group Bookings

Drawing for Absolute Beginners - 2 October with Lynne Gibson

Most people would love to be able to draw!

Of course it takes years of practice to become an expert, but it is vital you set about it in the right way from the absolute beginning. This can save a lot of frustration, yield surprising results, and set you on the path to success.

You will learn some basic skills during the day and, most importantly, you will learn to see the world in a special way: the way the artist sees it.

Drawing equipment will all be provided.

Lynne Gibson is a fully qualified teacher and highly experienced lecturer in Critical and Contextual Studies in Art, as well as practical Drawing, Painting and Printmaking.
She has lectured for the University of Sussex and the University of Bristol, where she also taught several summer schools. Other teaching includes Bath and Stroud colleges of Art, and ARCA colleges Dillington House and Farncombe Estate.
She also gives lectures, talks and tours for organizations such as the National Trust, National Galleries and Museums, and various art societies. She now works freelance as a lecturer and consultant.

She is an accredited NADFAS lecturer.

Drawing for Absolute Beginners - Painting & Drawing

Faster Novel Writing Techniques - One Day Writing Workshop Farncombe Estate

Have you tried to write a novel and given up by Chapter Two? Have you often wondered how other writers manage to complete theirs in record time? Would you like to be one of them?

Join Sue Johnson for this one day course on 14 November - Sue will give some professional tips that will keep you motivated, banish writer’s block and help you achieve your goal. Sue is published as a poet and short story writer. She has completed five novels – three of which are currently with an agent.

Faster Novel Writing Techniques - Literature & Writing

Start Songwriting - One Day Workshop with Jo Sercombe

Ever wanted to write a song but not known where to start? Just as (apparently) we all have at least one novel inside us, anyone can have a go at writing songs. Spend a day with Jo demystifying the process of song-writing. Learn how to begin by exploring sources of inspiration, ways of selecting and structuring material and discover how to develop ideas. No previous experience necessary, just a big imagination (we supply the felt tip pens!) and by the end of the day, you'll have be taking your first song home with you!

Participants should bring electronic keyboards, guitars & other instruments they use for songwriting. Please make sure you bring headphones and an extension lead for electronic instruments. A Dictaphone or mp3 recorder may also be useful for documenting your work

This one day course takes place at Farncombe Estate 5th February 2011 - book online here Start Songwriting - Singing Courses or call 033 3456 8580.

Introduction to Digital Photography - New Weekend Course at Farncombe Estate

For students completely new to digital photography. Bring your own digital camera (compact, bridge or DSLR) or borrow one from us. Course will concentrate on taking photographs (not image manipulation with a computer) and will look at the basics of picture taking beyond the convenience of the Auto button. Following tuition covering techniques to improve your photography and an illustrated lecture on composition, a field trip in the grounds of Farncombe Estate is complemented with an in-depth review of students' photographs using digital projection.

This course is tutored by Derek Forss 21-23 January 2011 - visit the Farncombe Estate website for more details Introduction to Digital Photography - Photography

Make Your Own Perfume Day Course - an ideal gift !

Alec Lawless

Perfumer, Alec Lawless, developed Essentially Me's range of sophisticated perfumes from his passion for natural fragrance. A trained Jungian psychotherapist, Alec has spent more than 20 years sourcing oils for his successful essential oils business, Aqua Oleum. This, combined with his love of good food and wine, naturally led him to spend many years blending perfumes & developing a range of perfume-making supplies.

Alec also provides a bespoke perfume creation service for private clients, boutiques & spas, as well as teaching a range of perfumery courses.

His book, "Artisan Perfumery or Being Led by the Nose" was published last year. He has also appeared in Natural Health Magazine, Cotswold Life & BBC Radio Gloucestershire. Alec will shortly appear in a TV documentary on Victorian Pharmacy.

Spend a day with perfumer Alec learning how to blend a perfume using natural aromatics, finishing with a bottle of perfume to take home.

The day starts with an introduction to the history of natural perfumery and the beautiful aromatics that we will be working with. Alec Lawless then guides you to in creating top, middle and base notes for your unique fragrance.

You will work with 24 natural aromatic blends, specially created by Alec to allow you to create a range of traditional perfumery styles, from classic Florals like Rose, Jasmine and Lavender, to exotic Chypres, Spices, Woods and Herbs.

Once your formula is complete, Alec will make up your perfume in a 56ml Italian Flint Glass Bottle with personalised label. He will keep the formula, so if you want to reorder you can do so at any time.

Materials Cost £45 to be paid on the day.

Please inform us if you have any known allergies to essential oils or other aromatics.

19th February 2011 - a course that makes an ideal gift !

Make Your Own Perfume Day Course - General Interests

Special Gift Voucher Offer

Purchase Farncombe Gift Vouchers to the value of £100 or more and we will give you a £25 gift voucher absolutely free !
To claim your free voucher simply quote “Gift4U” at time of ordering – you can purchase your vouchers online or by phone to 033 3456 8580.

This offer is valid on gift voucher purchases made before 5pm 16 December 2010. Only one free £25 voucher can be claimed per person.

Special Gift Voucher Offer

Introduction to West Gallery Music - Making Music at Farncombe

West Gallery music was sung in town and country churches in the period 1700-1850, and chronicled memorably in the novels of Thomas Hardy. It was composed specifically for (and often by) amateur singers. It is of an often joyful and rhythmic nature, influenced by folk dance and song, and very different from cathedral music.

West Gallery music was suppressed in Victorian times, to be replaced by the solemn tones of Hymns Ancient and Modern. In recent decades enthusiasts have revived the repertoire.

The course at Farncombe 24-26 June 2011 will appeal to singers of all voices and wind and string instrumentalists who would like to explore a different and exciting repertoire, suitable for both church and concert hall. The music is not technically challenging, and sight reading is not essential. As well as singing there will be an introduction to the history and literature of the genre.



Introduction to West Gallery Music - Making Music

Glass Workshop and Classes, Ruskin Glass Centre

Glass Artist Paul Floyd will lead afternoon sessions on glass fusing. Teaching the basics of fusing, cutting glass to a pattern and working with colored sheet glass, frits and powders. Only 3 people per workshop for maximum individual attention – by the end you will have made a beautiful light catcher.

Dates: Saturday 2nd October 2010

Time: 2pm till 4:30pm
Costs: £30 (includes all materials, fusing & postage of light catcher)


Please contact Paul or Monika for further details and to book your place.

Studio:01384 399412
www.paulfloyd.co.uk
email@paulfloyd.co.uk
Transparent Glass Studio, Ruskin Glass Centre, Wollaston Road, Stourbridge, DY8 4HE, West Midlands

Free Christmas Craft Workshop: Essential Oils for Winter

This workshop with Aromatherapist Julia Baker will show how to use suitable essential oils to combat typical winter ailments.

Participants will be able to join in and do a simple hand and arm massage using some of the featured essential oils.

To book call 033 3456 8580 or reserve tickets online here: Free Christmas Craft Workshop: Essential Oils for Winter - Christmas & New Year

Blue Peter presenter draws winners at Farncombe Estate

Farncombe Estate enjoyed a very successful Open Day on Sunday 12 September with a record number of places sold on taster talks, demonstrations and workshops ranging from gardening demonstrations to gospel singing and painting with pen and wash.

35 of Farncombe’s tutors were joined by local organisations including the Cotswold Conservation Board, Simon de Montfort Society, Court Barn Museum and Longborough Opera to give an amazing range of interests for visitors to find out about.

The raffle was drawn by Valerie Singleton (pictured), best known for her years as a presenter for Blue Peter and now involved with Discount Age and the Simplicity Computer – specially designed for older people who have never used a computer. Lucky winners of the 20 prizes walked away with vouchers for dinner at the Dormy House Hotel, bags of Ecover environmentally aware cleaning products, hampers of delicious food, vouchers for events at Farncombe and other treats.

The day was a great launch for Farncombe’s new 90 page programme of courses, day schools and events which can be found on the website, http://www.farncombeestate.co.uk/ , William Reddaway, Head of Lifelong Learning, commented “It is hard to make each new programme better than the last but I think we have done it for 2011! The team here have done a fantastic job in finding brilliant tutors for courses as different as magic, bridge, history and folk music”

Christmas Art & Craft Fair Visitor Discount !

We are offering special discount codes to all visitors to our Craft Fair on Sunday 21 November 2010 - offers valid on 2010 and 2011 courses ...!

For more details call 033 3456 8580.

Christmas Art & Craft Fair - Christmas & New Year

Launch of the 2011 weekend course programme

Friends and tutors sharing the launch of our 2011 weekend course programme on Sunday 12 September - we have just uploaded some of our photographs to Flickr - you can see them here :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/meetcotswolds/sets/72157624994992072/detail

Free Farncombe Christmas Craft Workshop: How to make a Miniature Stocking Front

With Sue Hazell.

These are easier than you think, by laying fabrics across calico & sewing in straight lines. You may use odd pieces of fabrics in the tones of a traditional Christmas or to suit your own colour scheme. Materials will be provided.

Suitable for adults and accompanied children aged 8 or over.

To reserve a ticket please call 033 3456 8580.

Free Christmas Craft Demonstration: How to make a Miniature Stocking Front - Crafts & Textiles

Free Christmas Craft Workshop: Christmas Origami - Sunday 21 November with Judith Laing

Judith will also be selling work at the end of the workshop.

Suitable for adults and accompanied children aged 8 or over.

To reserve a ticket please call 033 3456 8580.

Free Christmas Craft Workshop: Christmas Origami - Crafts & Textiles

Free Christmas Craft Demonstration: How to make a Christmas Wreath? 21 November at Farncombe Estate

With Katherine Kear.

Katherine will also be selling materials at the end of the workshop for anyone who would like to go home and try it themselves.

Suitable for adults and accompanied children aged 8 or over.

To reserve a ticket please call 033 3456 8580.

Free Christmas Craft Demonstration: How to make a Christmas Wreath? - Christmas & New Year

Your 2011 brochure and special offers are online here !

You can now download a copy of 2011 Farncombe course programme from our website!

Select the chapters you require and it will be delivered straight to your Inbox.

The new brochures are being sent out by 1 October so, if you are on our mailing list, you will receive a copy by early October.

With your brochure you will receive a Programme Launch Discount applicable to all bookings made by telephone before 5.00pm on Wednesday 20 October.

Be sure to look out for this and get your new bookings in early! There are also very good discount offers in the brochure for Day Schools throughout the year, so you can plan plenty of days at Farncombe!

You can only claim these discounts by telephone - so please call 033 3456 8580 with one of the following discount codes. :

• For “Weekend” (2 or 3 night) Courses: £15 off the fee for each booking – quote DISW11
• For Day Schools: £5 off for each booking – quote DISD11 on booking or take advantage of one of the other discount codes in the brochure!

We regret that these discount codes cannot be claimed online. For further details of the special offers, please download the details here.

Your 2011 brochure is online here !

Visit our Open Day this Sunday and enter our free prize draw for the chance to win …

... origami by Judith Laing, a gardening book signed by author & tutor Andrew Mikolajski, message boards by tutor Sue Hazell, an angel painting by local artist Christine Barnett, Dinner for 2 at the Dormy House Hotel Barn Owl Bar, Farncombe Estate gift vouchers, food hampers from Wilson Vale Catering and Cotswold Conference Centre, a painting by tutor and artist Arnold Lowrey, a 45 minute relaxation massage by Moto Sasaki or a signed book by tutor and digital photographer Derek Forss !

Farncombe Estate would like to say a huge thank you to all the tutors and friends that are helping make Sunday such a fabulous event. Do drop by and see us – the Centre is open 11am – 4.30pm - admission and car parking are both free !!

www.FarncombeEstate.co.uk/OpenDay - call 0333 456 8580 for programme details.

Creative Campden weekend 17-19 September 2010

There will diverse creative events around Chipping Campden including ,Talks, Demonstrations, Exhibitions, Displays, Have-a-go, Concerts and Comedy.

Do go along and witness just how much is going on - visit www.creativecampden.co.uk to find out more.

Weekly Arts & Crafts Markets for Birmingham

The ‘Handmade Market’ runs every weekend in the Bullring open air Market, along Edgbaston Street; stretching from St Martin’s Church down to Debenhams. 

The market forms the first part of the City’s new ‘Independent Birmingham’ Marketplace, that aims to be the largest and finest weekly gathering of the regions most interesting and individual independent designer-makers and contemporary vintage sellers, a place to shop and ramble; people watch and enjoy the vibrant experience of authentic Birmingham.

With support for the venture coming from Retail Markets, Retail Birmingham, the City Centre Partnership, Marketing Birmingham, and the city’s Regeneration unit, this vibrant and bunting dressed Market will showcase 20 of Birmingham’s finest independent contemporary artist designer-makers each weekend to offer, affordable, authentic and quality handmade innovative contemporary Arts & Craft that is genuinely made locally by the city’s admirably skilled artists, for everyone.

It includes: Jewellery, Ceramics, Textiles, Fashion, Illustration, Photography and Fine Art with many fusions between the disciplines etc.

Handmade Birmingham runs every weekend:

Saturdays: 9am - 5pm

Sundays:  11am - 5pm

www.handmademarket.com

 

 | Farncombe Estate Adult Learning Centre Ltd | Farncombe House | Broadway | Worcestershire | WR12 7LJ | Tel: + 44 (0)1386 854100 | Fax: +44 (0)1386 854350 | Company No.: 4792569 | VAT No.: GB 747 8882 65 |

A free open day at Farncombe celebrates new programme launch

Amid 300 acres of Cotswold countryside overlooking the picturesque village of Broadway and the Vale of Evesham, Farncombe Estate Centre will be celebrating the launch of a new course programme on Sunday 12th September.

A free Open Day will take place on the Estate to mark the release of the new brochure, which contains over 300 weekend courses from January to December 2011 in subjects ranging from Origami and Sugar Craft, through learning French, medieval history and opera to playing Bridge, painting watercolours and singing in a Gospel Choir.

The courses, all aimed at adults, offer a flexible approach to learning with an emphasis on enjoyment and personal development. Participants span a wide age-range and there is strong support from third age and female students.

Attending a course at Farncombe can result in life-changing experiences, new and lasting friendships, or an addiction to residential short courses (or even all three!) Tutors and students agree that there are huge advantages of spending a few days away from the pressures and distractions of everyday life, learning a new skill or practising a favourite hobby.

The standards of tuition and hospitality at Farncombe are exceptionally high – selected tutors are some of the most experienced and skilled across the country, and the venue itself has received several national awards for the quality of its facilities and outstanding customer service.


William Reddaway, Head of Lifelong Learning for Farncombe explains “2010 has been an exciting year at Farncombe and the 2011 programme continues our wide range of courses. We are almost unique as a centre in the number and the diversity of the events we offer to adults who wish to continue to gain new knowledge or new skills. 2011 will see the continuing refurbishment of bedrooms and training rooms and the building of 32 new bedrooms. So, in 2012 we will be able to grow our programme again and offer facilities to more groups to come and pursue their own interests. We already provide a venue for, among others, choirs, embroiderers, musicians, bridge players, and yoga groups, and we look forward to being able to welcome greater numbers to such a lovely setting for study”

For further details or a free copy of the new brochure visit www.FarncombeEstate.co.uk or call 01386 854100. The Open Day runs from 11am – 4.30pm on Sunday 12th September. Both admission & car parking are free.

Roger McGough at Number 8

Roger McGough – That Awkward Age
Friday 17 September - 7.30pm Number 8, Pershore

Miracle birth of a new collection and an evening of poems to amaze and delight! McGough wrestles with mortality, seeks love in the launderette and jives in Macca’s trousers. Addresses, elegies, prayers and ever perceptive playfulness make this a must-go.

“Rueful, unpredictable observation to please the sharpest wits.” The Independent


McGough is known for topping the charts with Lily the Pink as a member of The Scaffold in 1978, and for bestselling poetry anthology The Mersey Sound, which also featured work from Adrian Henri and Brian Patten. McGough's autobiography Said and Done was published in 2005 and he currently presents Radio 4 programme Poetry Please. The beat goes on. There’s poetry in the house and McGough fitted it. Running Time: 95mins (inc interval), Age guidance: 14+ http://www.rogermcgough.org.uk/


“The patron saint of poetry.” Carol Ann Duffy


Full Price £15 (Students £10). Discounts available for pre-booked groups of 10 or more

Tickets on sale now from Number 8 Box Office. Tel. 01386 555488

New Local Writing hot off the press

WHAT IF?...
Local writers go to press with their new booklet of stories and poetry.

Stimulated by the writing challenges they faced while attending Sue Johnson's writing workshops at Number 8 Community Arts Centre in Pershore, eight writers set about putting a collection of their work together.

There was a lot of head scratching about deciding a theme for the booklet, how to ensure a variety of contributions and meeting deadlines for publication.

Now the booklet is hot off the press and contains thirteen stories and fifteen poems. Lots of big questions are there: What if I'm made whole again? What if I tell your fortune? What if we find love again?...and more.

Kathleen Fitzmaurice, a local writer from Harvington, was the driving force behind the project, editing the collection and getting it in to print.

The booklet is available to purchase now for £3.75, from Kathleen's web site www.rhymebydesign.com. Her site also offers a personalised poetry writing service and the opportunity for all rhyming poets out there to enter a three monthly rhyming poetry competition.

Copies are also available from another one of the eight out of 8 writers, Lisa Kimberley if you email lkimberley@hotmail.com

Sue Johnson's inspirational Writer's Toolkit classes start again at Number 8 on 10th September.

The group is donating 25% of the profit from this booklet to St Richard's Hospice, Worcestershire.

Oxfordshire's 46th Towersey Village Festival

26 - 30 August 2010

Only 9 sleeps to go till.............

“Absolutely very nearly, but not quite the very best festival in the world” Jeremy Symondson

And what a Festival line-up!

Close up Concerts, Crazy Ceilidh, Dynamic Dance House. Dance, sing, party or just relax! You can do it all at Towersey.

To see the full line up .....

Book your tickets now...........

Sudeley Castle Gardens Open

NGS Open Day

15th October 2010

The castle gardens will be open in support of the National Garden Scheme.

Government’s New Commitment to Tourism

VisitBritain Special Bulletin
This morning, the Prime Minister gave a speech declaring the Government’s new commitment to tourism, in the light of the opportunities and challenges facing us as we progress towards 2012.
He outlined how tourism is now a first class priority at the front and centre of our economic strategy, as an export earner with international visitors and with a strong domestic market. He also stressed how fundamental the industry will be to the rebuilding and rebalancing of our economy.
He recognised that the 2012 Games and the coming decade of great international sporting events across Britain, with all that Britain has to offer, is an unprecedented opportunity. But, to ensure that this opportunity is not missed, as an industry there is still much that needs to be done to improve perceptions of Britain at home and overseas.

Over the coming months the Government will be working on ‘the strongest possible tourism strategy’ looking at:
What the Government does nationally

The role of local government and the support of the local area

How we stimulate the private sector in tourism

How we make policy in other areas that will impact the tourism industry

At a national level, the dedicated Minister for Tourism and Heritage, John Penrose will lead a new relationship with the tourism industry, showing the Government gets tourism and understands the huge potential of the industry. In spite of the current tough times meaning tough decisions, he is keen to ensure that these decisions will serve us in the long-term.

However, the Government views tourism is a local industry and their aspiration is for new Local Enterprise Partnerships to allow local people and entrepreneurs more responsibility and control over how tourism is developed in each local area. A new set of incentives will be proposed for local authorities – including options for business rate incentives allowing local authorities to reinvest the benefits of growth back into their local communities.

The right local incentives should also help to stimulate the private sector. In addition to the reduction in red tape and excessive business taxes planned, the Prime Minister sees tourism bids as potentially key beneficiaries of the new £1 billion regional growth fund.
He will also look across Government at the policies that impact tourism in a big way – visas, airport security, infrastructure – not as isolated issues, but from the perspective of both the domestic and international tourism industry.
Finally, he committed John Penrose to work with the industry, bringing together all your best ideas, to develop a tourism strategy by the end of the year, with the goal of setting Britain on a path to break into the world’s top five tourist destinations.

We are delighted that the Prime Minister has declared so clearly that tourism is fundamental to the rebuilding and rebalancing of our economy. And we share his determination to use the coming decade to boost Britain’s international competitiveness in tourism and to take our industry to a whole new level.

Discover Creative Campden Weekend

17 - 19 September 2010

The second Discover Creative Campden Weekend will be an opportunity to see the range of creative activities which take place in Chipping Campden, from traditional silversmithing, to abstract art, to hand painted silks, to author's talks, to beautiful jewellery and much more.
We expect visitors from far and wide who will be able to enjoy creative activities in the beautiful surroundings of Chipping Campden.

Please visit our website, http://www.creativecampden.co.uk/ for more details.

Why not take advantage of a special B&B rate for Sunday night at Farncombe Estate.

£25 single occupancy

£35 shared twin/double

Call 0333 456 8580 for availability.

Patchwork for Christmas - Textile workshop £5

Sunday 12 September - In this hour long taster workshop with Georgina Oldham you will make a card from one square of fabric and a decoration from cereal packet card and fabric. All the necessary materials will be provided.

Open Day Workshop: 12.45pm Patchwork for Christmas - Crafts & Textiles

Everyone Can Sing - Give It A Try! Tickets £5 for a limited period only !

Dan's weekend workshops are consistently popular at Farncombe. Join him at our Open Day on Sunday 12 September to discover posture & breathing, experiment with different vocal sounds, chanting & listening, and end by singing a song together. He'll prove that Everyone Can Sing !

Open Day Workshop: 11.00pm Everyone Can Sing - Give It A Try! - Singing Courses

We've got a new number! 0333 456 8580

The Farncombe Estate team can now be reached on 0333 456 8580. Calls to this number will only be charged at your normal rate. It costs the same to ring an 03 number as a standard landline .... EVEN from a mobile phone !

So go on, give us a call ?!

Book it now ! Making proper posh soap - free demonstration at our Open Day Sunday 12 September

Due to popular demand we have a second Soap Making demo starting at 3.30pm - sign up online here or request a booking form by calling 0333 456 8580 !

Open Day Demonstration: 3.30pm Making proper posh soap! - Crafts & Textiles

Three Choirs Festival 7-15 August

The Three Choirs Festival, held each year since the early eighteenth century, and rotating between the three great cathedral cities of Gloucester, Worcester and Hereford is one of the world’s oldest classical choral music festivals. This heritage has long established the Festival as a firm fixture in the British music calendar and a must-visit for lovers of the great choral works from across Britain, Europe, America and Australasia.

The festival returns to Gloucester this August with an excellent line up. Each festival provides an attached Festival Club, traditionally run by the “Friends” of the home festival, which provides a central social venue for audience and performers alike, as well as food and drink in a welcoming and hospitable atmosphere.

For more details see http://www.3choirs.org/