Welcome to your Evesham Noticeboard Monthly Newsletter

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Remembering Alan Booth

Image Credit @Julie SparrowLike many of you, we were very sad to hear of the recent death of Alan Booth. Alan, a beloved member of the community, served on the town council for over 25 years, including multiple terms as town mayor.

Born in 1942, Alan served with the Royal Signals before moving to Evesham in the 1980s with his late wife, Carolyn. He managed the Bear Pub on Port Street before becoming the long-standing licensee of Angel Vaults pub, where he welcomed locals for over 20 years.

Alan was deeply committed to community service, supporting the Burma Star Association and playing a significant role in the Royal British Legion. He was instrumental in organising the annual Remembrance Day parade and Armed Forces Day, serving as Chairman and later Vice Chairman of the Legion for many years.

His dedication extended to numerous local initiatives, including the Evesham Sanctuary Centre for refugees and asylum seekers, Garage Arts, and Working World. Alan was also a passionate advocate for the town, defending its reputation and tirelessly working toward improved flood defenses.

In recognition of his dedication, Alan was honored with the Love Evesham Community Award in November.

Image @ Kerry Woods

Since his passing, beautiful tributes have poured in from across the community to honour Alan and all he has achieved. Love Evesham and Evesham Noticeboard Founder Katie Gilbert shared heartfelt words: "God bless you, mate. It's very sad to know we won't see you again. Such a caring and wonderful man who truly loved this town and its people. He never judged, always helped, and will be deeply missed. We will never forget the great work he has done and the great friend he has been to so many."

Evesham Town Council, who announced his passing on their Facebook page, also paid tribute: "Alan was a dedicated and valued member of the council and will be greatly missed. His unwavering commitment to service and deep love for our town will not be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."

Alan was a huge part of our community, loved by all, and will be very much missed.

Here are some of the photo tributes posted in Evesham Noticeboard.

Alan’s funeral will take place at St Peter’s Church, Bengeworth, at 1pm on Thursday, February 13, followed by a wake at Evesham Town Hall.

In support of funeral expenses, Trevor’s daughter Rebecca has set up a JustGiving campaign for those who wish to contribute. Click the link below to donate.Donate in Memory of Alan Booth

Shop Local, Evesham! Why Supporting Independent Businesses Matters More Than Ever in 2025

The high street is changing. Online giants and rising costs are putting pressure on our beloved local shops. But here in Evesham, Pershore, and Broadway, we have a vibrant community of independent businesses that make our towns unique. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to keep it local.

Why? Because shopping local isn't just about convenience, it's about investing in our community's future.

Here's why your support makes a difference:

• Boosting our local economy:  When you spend money at an independent shop, more of that money stays within the local economy. This helps create jobs, supports local families, and strengthens our community as a whole.
• Preserving our unique character:  Independent businesses give our towns their distinct personality. From quirky gift shops to family-run butchers, they offer something different you won't find anywhere else.
• Encouraging entrepreneurship: Supporting local businesses encourages local people to pursue their dreams and contribute to a thriving business community.
• Reducing environmental impact: Shopping local often means less transportation and packaging, reducing your carbon footprint.
• Building stronger connections:  Independent shops foster a sense of community. You get to know the owners, build relationships, and feel more connected to where you live.

Evesham Noticeboard is championing our local heroes!

As part of our ongoing "Keep it Local" campaign, Evesham Noticeboard is shining a spotlight on the fantastic independent businesses in Evesham, Pershore, and Broadway.

Do you have a favourite local business you'd like to see featured in our free photo opportunity!? 

We're looking for businesses to showcase with a photo and social media shout-out! Like we recently did with Charm Chase, a new retailer on our High Street. We will come take their photo and give them a good shout out on our social media pages and groups! 

The businesses can located from home, retail, office, van where ever! As long as they are within Evesham, Pershore or Broadway we will come take there photo!

Email your suggestions to hello@eveshamnoticeboard.co.uk or contact Katie directly. Let's celebrate the businesses that make our towns special and encourage everyone to shop local in 2025!

Business Owners... Looking for affordable and effective marketing?

In today's digital world, reaching your target audience is key. Evesham Noticeboard offers a fantastic platform for local businesses to connect with the community. With our strong online presence and engaged audience, we provide:

• Targeted reach:  Connect directly with local customers who are interested in supporting independent businesses.
• Affordable solutions:  We offer cost-effective advertising options to suit businesses of all sizes.
• Increased visibility:  Boost your online presence and get noticed by potential customers.
• Community engagement:  Become part of a supportive network and build relationships with local shoppers.

Advertise With Us

Charity Spotlight: PAL Fitness Education CIC

Discover how PAL Fitness Education CIC is encouraging inclusivity and promoting active lifestyles in the Evesham community. 

From Inclusive Cycling sessions at Evesham Velo Park to February half-term holiday camps and Stay and Play sessions for children with additional needs, PAL offers activities for all ages and abilities.

Looking to get involved? PAL is seeking volunteers to assist with their cycling programme—no experience required!

Read more about their incredible initiatives and how you can participate in our full article (link below)

Read the full story here

Have Your Say on Loyalty Card for Locals

If you live in Evesham, Pershore, or Broadway. We need your feedback on our exciting new residents-only loyalty card scheme, it needs you, our community to tell us what you would like most!

As you know we are all about keeping it local and after watching other communities across the UK successfully launch residents-only schemes we think it is a perfect fit for us to launch!

There will be an opportunity very soon to apply for YOUR FREE residents-only card, but first off we need your input and support.

We want to hear your thoughts so please visit our survey via the link below and let us know what you think.

Have Your Say

Evesham Loyalty Card - Calling all businesses

If you run a business in Evesham and are interested in participating in our Loyalty Card Scheme. Please fill in our survey form to tell us a bit more about who you are and give us your thoughts on a loyalty card scheme.

Any input you provide will contribute to the final loyalty card and we value all feedback.

Take our Business Survey

New Initiative Leads to Visitor Boom at 

The Almonry

Credit @Katya RudetskaThe historic Almonry Museum in the heart of Evesham has seen an extraordinary surge in visitors and donations since adopting a free-to-enter policy, a change inspired by the overwhelming success of our Community #LoveEvesham Day which we hosted back in May 2024.

The Almonry, a beloved heritage site, first trialled free entry during our special Community Day event, which encouraged more people to explore and, in some cases, rediscover the museum which many had not set foot in since their school days. Following increased interest in the museum and a boost to donations on the community day, The Almonry waived its admission fees from August 2024, leading to a near doubling of visitor numbers.

Since the change, adult visitors have increased by an impressive 109%, while under-12 attendance has risen by 90%. The museum’s donations and retail sales have soared by 186%, highlighting the community’s support and appreciation for the site. While the removal of entry fees has not yet fully bridged the funding gap left by lost ticket revenue, the increased foot traffic and positive visitor feedback have been significant gains.

"Most of the people who come and see us are actually first-time visitors, and the feedback we're getting is really positive," said Almonry manager, Ashleigh Jayes. "People are really keen on The Almonry and what we are doing with the project."

The museum, which received over £2 million in MEND funding to secure its future, has also seen a boost in its garden restoration efforts. A dedicated team of volunteers has been hard at work revitalising the museum’s garden, with recent additions including a new greenhouse funded by a Royal Society grant. These efforts are paving the way for expanded educational opportunities and potential plant sales in the future.

This remarkable transformation demonstrates the power of community engagement and the lasting impact of accessibility. By opening its doors to more visitors, The Almonry is ensuring its stories and heritage remain alive for generations to come. If you haven’t yet visited, now is the perfect time to explore this treasured piece of local history!

Explore the Almonry Evesham

Brushstrokes of Inspiration: 

Meet Nicki Reg, Artist and Tutor

Nicki Redgewell, a talented artist and passionate tutor based in Evesham, has transformed her lifelong love for art into a thriving career. Known for her realism-contemporary style, Nicki captures intricate details in nature, often enhancing colors to bring her subjects to life. Her favorite medium is acrylics, though she’s recently begun experimenting with water-mixable oils.

After years of balancing teaching and her art, Nicki took the leap in 2024 to become a full-time self-employed artist and tutor. She now inspires clients of all ages to explore their creativity, celebrating their progress and successes.

Nicki’s work is deeply influenced by British nature, local landscapes, and her family’s market gardening heritage. One of her favorite pieces, Hoeing Around the Brassicas, is a heartfelt tribute to her grandfather’s legacy.

To learn more about Nicki’s journey, upcoming classes, and artistic insights, check out the full article below

Visit Nicki Reg Art

Happy Birthday Vale Digital!

This month marks a major milestone for local copywriting business Vale Digital as it celebrates three years in business. 

Launched in 2022, the online-based company has grown steadily, adapting to economic changes and new advances in technology, reaching customers across Evesham and the Vale. 

Founder Gemma Edwards, reflects on the journey: “Starting an online business comes with its challenges, but we’ve learned, evolved, and built something we’re really proud of. We’re excited for what’s next.”

To celebrate, Vale Digital is offering Website Copy Audits at a reduced price of £75 until the end of February. It's for founders whose website just isn't performing as it should be. If your traffic and sales are low, let them take a look and they'll carry out a full audit and offer you a list of actions to fix any issues so you can start attracting clients and making more sales.

Book Your Website Copy Audit Today

New Members This Month

Recent Advertising Campaign for Bradfords is A Huge Success!

Did you see the local carpet & bed retailer Bradford's on Sky TV Commercial in January? 

Spot the local sales team featured in the advert. Plus the famous Hippo!

Bradfords, with the help of Bright Ideas Marketing Agency and JRN Visuals created the Sky TV Ad to promote their winter sale.

The advert also featured the Silent Dreams Hippo Mascot and employee Ben was given the job of presenter. Ben was a natural said Katie from Bright Ideas. 

The tv commercial was hugely successful in increasing awareness of this local business with more new customers discovering the store and its full range of products.

The TV campaign has now finished but don't worry if you missed out, it's available to watch on their Facebook and Tiktok accounts.

Watch the Bradfords TV Ad

Business Networking in Evesham

Evesham Noticeboard - Thursday 6th February, 12-1.30pm at Stirrups in Evesham Market Place https://www.facebook.com/events/1033461631840968

Non League Networking - Thursday 27th February, 12-2pm at Evesham United Football Club, £15 (10 for EN Members)

Book a Bespoke Bright Ideas Workshop 

For Your Business!

Why attending a Bright Ideas workshop can help you grow your online presence

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and it can be tough to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. That's where Bright Ideas comes in. Our workshops are designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the digital marketing world, with a real focus on hyper-local marketing - talking directly to your potential customers.

What are Bright Ideas workshops about?

Our workshops cover a wide range of topics, from social media marketing to content creation to digital marketing activity plans. We have something for everyone, whether you're a new business owner or have a team.

Here are just a few of the benefits of attending a Bright Ideas workshop:

• Gain hands-on experience. Our workshops are interactive and hands-on, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to practice what you learn.
• Learn from experts. Our workshops are led by experienced digital marketers who will share their insights and tips with you.
• Get your questions answered. Our instructors are available to answer any questions you have during the workshop.

Top social media tips for 2025

Here are a few of our top social media tips for 2025:

• Focus on creating high-quality content. In 2025, it will be more important than ever to create content that is engaging and informative.
• Authentic Engagement: Focusing on building relationships and engaging authentically with your audience can strengthen brand loyalty and drive positive sentiment towards your business.
• Use the right apps/software. Using the right software, apps can not only save time but really help grow many opportunities online
• Get involved in social conversations. Be active on social media and engage with your followers.
• Short-Form Video: Compelling short videos that resonate with viewers can help you convey messages effectively, drive user engagement, and increase visibility on the platform.
• User-Generated Content (UGC): Sharing UGC on your Facebook page can enhance authenticity and engagement, fostering a sense of community and trust with your audience.
• Track your results. It's important to track your results so that you can see what's working and what's not.

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT OUR SOCIAL MEDIA WORKSHOPS IN THE EVESHAM TRAINING ROOM?

Attending a Bright Ideas workshop is a great way to learn the skills you need to succeed in the digital marketing world. We hope to see you soon! All our courses are crafted with your industry and needs in mind. 

For more info or to discuss email hello@thebrightideasagency.co.uk, text 07790 422659 or visit our websitehttps://thebrightideasagency.co.uk/evesham-workshops 

MORE INFORMATION FOR SOCIAL MEDIA WORKSHOPS

Vale Matters Host Jason Meets 'Mrs Evesham'

Our latest podcast will shortly be going live and this month host Jason Ayres interviews local resident and former Mayoress Diana Raphael, affectionately known as 'Mrs Evesham'.

In the latest episode, Jason visits Hampton Ferry to chat to Diana about her recently released memoir, "Living Next to Paradise". Diana was born at Hampton Ferry in the 1930s and has lived there almost her entire life.

Listen to our podcast and hear Diana's stories from her childhood including her experiences of living alongside the River Avon, her time serving as Mayor of Evesham and her thoughts on changes to Evesham over the past century.

Living Next to Paradise is available to purchase from Raphael's Restaurant at Hampton Ferry and is also on Amazon. Pick up your copy now.

To listen to the podcast visit the link below!

Listen Now

Evesham Valentine's Guide

Looking for the perfect date idea? Whether you're planning a first date, a fun day out, or a romantic evening for Valentine's Day, our local dating guide can help you impress that special someone in your life. From scenic strolls along the River Avon to cosy cafés, countryside escapes, and unique activities, there’s something for everyone in and around Evesham.

Skip the same old routine and discover new ways to connect—whether it’s a relaxed afternoon exploring local markets, a dinner at one of Evesham’s best eateries, or an adventurous day out in the Cotswolds.

Ready to plan your next date?

Read the Full Guide Here

Thanks for reading! Abd remember "Keep it Local"

We hope you've enjoyed our latest edition of the Evesham Noticeboard Newsletter. We are always looking for newsworthy stories for our newsletter so if you'd like to be featured or would like to contribute to next month's article please drop us a message to hello@eveshamnoticeboard.co.uk

Big thanks to our admins and content creators at Evesham Noticeboard!