Welcome to the March Edition of the Evesham Noticeboard Newsletter!!!
What a lovely month! Yes, we know we have had floods, frost and traffic jams, but hey this is your good news time and we are here to inspire you, make you smile, and maybe help you support local!
From our popular Facebook group, Evesham Noticeboard, which now has over 37,000 followers - we had some great community posts including this one from local resident Nicola. Nicola was looking for feedback on opening a new food business in Evesham. The comments and support were amazing and made this the top post in February!
All the best Nicola, we look forward to hearing about your progress!
And the second most popular post was from our Love Evesham Mental Health Awards winner 2023 Kyle Hotchkins. Kyle bravely shared his journey through addiction with all our followers! Thanks Kyle and keep up the good community work. From sharing this to running Claus for a Cause, Kyle really is an inspiration to many.
If anyone would like support with addiction please do contact our Evesham community centre Wallace House who run many support groups for all types of addiction.
Want to get involved:
- Share your stories, events, and news with us! We love to hear from the community. ️Email Katie hello@eveshamnoticeboard.co.uk
- Visit our website and social media pages for even more Evesham, Pershore and Broadway goodness.
- Spread the word! Invite your friends and neighbours to join our growing community.
- If you are looking for a trader or service please do check out our local and recommended trades and services. We only champion the best! www.eveshamnoticeboard.co.uk to find what you are looking for.
Together, let's make the Vale an even more vibrant and connected place!
Happy reading and remember Keep it local readers!
Kind 'Keeping it local' Regards
Katie Gilbert
Lawrance's Quality Bakers celebrates 70 years in Business
A big congratulations to Lawrance's Quality Bakers of Evesham and Pershore who celebrate a huge milestone of 70 years in business this month!!!
The bakery was first opened on the high street on the 14th of March 1954 by Lesley Lawrance. His son Peter, later took over the bakery and ran it for many years before the current owners Donald Mclellan and Andrew Dolphin became its new owners three years ago.
Lawrance's is a staple of the Evesham high street beloved by the locals who enjoy their crusty bread rolls and mouthwatering cakes and nothing beats the smell of fresh bread outside the bakery in the morning. Even now, former residents of the town still remember the delicious donuts, sausage rolls and pies.
Recent years have seen Lawrance's expand their operations with their bakery products now available in local farm shops and other small retailers enabling those who live further afield to enjoy their delicious bread and cakes.
And long may it continue - congratulations and we look forward to celebrating your Centenary!!!
Evesham Anti-Litter Wombles Clean Up
Evesham's Anti Litter team are continuing their efforts to keep Evesham clean. The group, first set up in 2016 consists of local volunteers who give their time each week to remove litter from our community making it a nicer and safer place to live for Evesham's human and wildlife inhabitants.
Walks take place regularly, with recent walks in Sunset Way, Waterside car park, Davies Road (College end) and Evesham Leisure Centre resulting in the collection in 20 bags of litter.
On Sunday 17th March, Evesham Anti-Litters are organising 'The Big Evesham Town Spring Clean 2024'. The event is going to be a big push to get Evesham looking at its best but more volunteers are needed. If you'd like to get involved, check out their Facebook page for more information.
The team at Evesham noticeboard would also like to say a big thank you to the team for their efforts in making Evesham and the Vale a cleaner place to live.
Royal British Legion Seeks Volunteers for Appeal
New podcast celebrates local beauty businesses
Have you listened to the latest Vale Matters Podcast yet?
In our latest podcast, host Katie Gilbert speaks to local beauty business owners Lucy Fletcher (Beauty Shack with the Laser Lounge), Gareth Martin (Iconic Hairdressing & Iconic Beautique) and Vicki Baker (Mobile Hair & Make up and Mary Kay Consultant) about the passion they share for the beauty industry.
We also learn more about how the entrepreneurs got started, their advice for those looking to enter the industry and about expanding when the time is right.
The guests' shared love of Evesham and the work they do really shines through in the podcast so it's definitely one to check out.
The podcast is out now, click the link below to stream.
Explore the History of the Fleece Inn
Ever wondered about the history of The Fleece Inn.
Built in the early 15th Century the Fleece Inn is one of the Vale's hidden gems. Rich in history, it was owned by the same family up until 1977 when the last owner, Lola Taplin, bequeathed the building to the National Trust.
The pub is also home to a fascinating collection of artifacts dating back many years which tell us a lot about the pub's long history, it's former residents, and how they lived.
We know Evesham has quite a few history buffs and if you are one of them, you might be interested to know that The Fleece offers an exclusive evening guided tour hosted by the fabulous Nigel Smith - Landlord of the Fleece.
There's nothing that Nigel doesn't know about the Fleece so it's bound to be a very interesting evening and not one to miss out on.
Ticket prices include not just the tour but also a delicious 2 course meal and drink. It costs just £36 per person and spots fill up quickly so book now if you don't want to miss out.
Availability is limited with the following dates still available: Mon 25 March, Mon 29 April, Mon 30 Sept, Mon 28 Oct, Mon 25 Nov.
Evesham Pagan Festival
The Almonry celebrates securing of new funding for upcoming restoration project
The team at the Almonry are celebrating after managing to secure £66000 in grants and funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Historic England.
The building, built in the late 14th or early 15th century was part of the Evesham Abbey. The Almonry itself was the home of the almoner, a monk whose role was to provide alms (donations) for the poor people of Evesham. The Abbey was closed in the time of Henry VIII as part of the Dissolation of the Monasterys and the Almonry remained in private hands until 1927 when it was purchased by Evesham Town Council to be used as Evesham’s museum.
The museum now houses an eclectic collection of objects dating from prehistoric fossils to items from the 20th Century. There are also exhibitions about the Abbey and the battle of Evesham, and a Victorian School room.
The funding secured will fund essential surveys. Investigations and reports in anticipation of the large repair and restoration work required on the building. After 600 years of constant use the building has started to show its age and is on Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk Register.’ The timber frame is failing, the stonework needs attention and the roof needs replacing so there is a lot of work to do if the building is to be saved.
The survey and investigation works were expected to start last month and it's likely we’ll see scaffolding going up around the building soon as now that the funding has been secured, work can start. The project is expected to take some time and will be carried out over multiple phases. Whilst grant funding has been secured and a further £90,000 has already been raised, the final costs are estimated to be over £2 million so the project needs your donations. Check out the almonry's donation page if you'd like to donate.
To stay uptodate on the latest regarding the Almonry Restoration Project, check out the link below.
Follow the progress
Egg-citing Easter Trail to raise money for Evesham defibrillator charity
Looking for something fun to do with the kids up in the lead up to Easter?
Do you like chocolate?
In that case, you should check out Evesham's Easter Trail which is being organised to raise funds for the Evesham AED Team.
To take part you'll need to buy a trail map with a list of the participating businesses in the town centre. These are available from the Valkyrie for just £2. You'll need to visit all the businesses on the trail map and look for the Easter egg in their window. One of the businesses on the map does not have an egg and it's your job to find out which one.
Once you've discovered which of the businesses does not have an egg in your window, you can return your completed trail form to the Valkyrie where you can exchange it for a chocolate prize. Please note it's one prize per form so if you have 2 or more children who want their own prize, they'll also need a separate form each.
The trail is running from Saturday 10th February - Sunday 7th April.
Happy Hunting!!!
Tracy Sollis Leukeamia Trust
Local Charity Spotlight
This month we shine a spotlight on local charity The Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust. The charity was founded by Sue Sollis in memory of her daughter Tracy, who sadly lost her brave battle with leukaemia at the tender age of 15.
It was Tracy’s desire that something positive come out of her experiences, and so the Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Laboratory appeal was launched by her mother Sue with the target of raising £100,000 to fund a research laboratory. With the help of her loyal supporters, Sue was able to achieve the initial £100,000 target and in May 1996 the laboratory was opened in the grounds of The Royal Free Hospital, London when it was dedicated to Tracy.
Despite reaching the goal set in the appeal, Sue and her supporters have continued to fundraise in Tracy's name. Their main goal now is to improve the treatment and care of patients suffering from leukaemia and other blood-related diseases. They continue to seek to achieve this by supporting research, providing complementary therapy both inside and outside of the hospital environment, and donating specialist medical equipment.
One of their latest projects is to raise funds to purchase 'Vein Finders' to be donated to as many hospitals and any interested GP surgeries as possible.
A Vein Finder is a remarkable piece of equipment. As its name suggests it can find the precise location of a vein by means of an ultra-violet light. There are many different types available but the one preferred by the trust is the Accuvein. At a cost of around £6000 per device including the stand, the charity requires substantial donations to fund these which is why they need your help and support.
Want to get involved? The trust has 2 charity shops in Evesham's library arcade where you can donate items and shop for some great items including clothing, bric-a-brac and homeware. You can also donate directly via their Just Giving Page.
Charity Concert
The Trust is also hosting a special charity concert starring guitarist Gordon Giltrap and, singer, guitarist and composer Carrie Martin. The event, to be held at Evesham's Henrician Theatre on Saturday 1st June looks like it will be a night to remember. You can also book your tickets online now by clicking here or scanning the QR code above.
Celebrate Mother's Day at Hampton Ferry
You Turn donations needed
Redevelopment of You Turn's new centre has continued with work taking place to transform the space both inside and out.
With bold plans in place, the centre would like to offer young people the chance to learn building, woodworking and gardening skills. But to offer these they need the tools and equipment to get started.
If you have any of the following please consider donating:
- Wood
- Hand tools
- Electric tools
- Work benches
- Gardening tools
- Wheelbarrow Plants
- Seeds
- Compost
- SoilPots
- Fruit trees
Or anything else which will enable them to deliver new and exciting outdoor projects.
You can contact them directly on 07443515729 or visit the centre in Briar Close and have a look at what they do.
EUFC Seeks new coaches for Pan Disability Team
Evesham Charities come together
Here at Evesham Noticeboard, we hosted our first support circle for local community groups, charities and not for profits at Wallace House.
It was a fantastic evening attended by representatives of PAL Fitness & Education CIC, Wallace House, Claus for a Cause, Harvington Festival and Friends of St Richards Open Space.
Our first speaker was Sue Bentley from Pal Fitness who gave a great talk on finding and applying for grants for projects. The talk also included some great tips and advice to boost chances of achieving grant approval which all the attendees found incredibly helpful.
The event also gave local charity representatives the opportunity to network, discuss their experiences of the behind the scenes element of running a charity, and get help and advice on other issues. We were also pleased to share some of our best marketing tips which would benefit the groups.
It was a fantastic evening and we look forward to hosting our next one - date still to be confirmed.
Got unwanted hair or want to get that tattoo of your ex's name removed?
The experts at beauty shack with the laser lounge can help!!!
This amazing beauty salon offers the latest in state of the art laser technology to remove hair and reduce the appearance of tattoo ink.
Book your appointment today and discover a new, more confident you.
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Barclays Bank to leave Evesham high street
The Evesham Branch of Barclays have announced their intention to close later this year. The branch located on the high street in Evesham, will be closing on Wednesday 15th May at 12.00pm.
When the branch closes, our closest Barclays branches offering full services and normal banking hours will be located in Tewkesbury, Stratford Upon Avon & Worcester.
Barclays have stated, 'we'll make sure you and your local community continue to have access to our banking services when you need them - It'll just be in a different way." It's not wholly clear what they mean by this, but where branches have closed in other areas, they have provided banking services in community buildings (libraries/town halls) for a few hours on select days each week. It's possible this could happen in Evesham - we'll update on the Facebook group when we hear more.
K9 coaching to host Hoopers workshops
Many thanks to Camilla Caplin Photography for giving permission to use the above photo
Local dog coaching business, K9 coaching are now offering new workshops for dogs in Evesham and the Vale.
Hoopers sessions are a great activity for dogs and their owners who want to try a fun, fast, low-impact sport. It involves both dogs and owners learning to navigate a course circuit made up of a variety of obstacles including hoops, barrels and tunnels. It's a great way to exercise your dog mentally and physically whilst also building a great working relationship with your dog.
K9 Coaching are hosting 3 different workshops starting on 24th March for all abilities and have just 6 spaces available in each session at £30 per space.
Contact K9 Coaching on 07903 546409 or email lisa.K9coaching@gmail.com to book your space.
 | Evesham Noticeboard - Now also on TikTokWe've recently signed up for a Tiktok account so if you are a fellow TikTok user - please give us a follow. We'll be using Tiktok to upload videos sharing more about our town, the local businesses, charities and events. The team are also looking forward to jumping on current trends and having fun. To follow us, scan the QR code or click the link below. |
What's on in Evesham and The Vale this month
To find out what's going on this month in Evesham, check out our weekly pinned post on the Evesham Noticeboard Facebook page.
Looking for something fun to do? Check out our regularly updated list of things to do in Evesham.
Add your Event
Regular Events Hosted at
Venues Across Evesham
Want to find out what's on at venues near you? Check out the links below to find out when you can enjoy live bands, quizzes, food nights and so much more!!!
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New Home for Food to Go
Have you checked out local food business Food to Go yet? They've recently moved to a new home at the Evesham United site by the Velo Park.
The family-run business has been trading since 2019 and provides a mouthwatering selection of top-quality homemade meals made using locally sourced ingredients.
When hunger strikes, they've got you covered with an amazing menu that includes all day breakfast options, tasty burgers, and their famous Philly cheese steak fries all of which is available to order and have delivered to your home.
They also offer catering options for events and businesses with cold platters also available - why not give them a try for your next event?
Our Guide to Celebrating Mother's Day in Evesham
Mother's Day is just around the corner on Sunday 10th March? Are you ready?
There's not long to go until Mother's day so if you need inspiration - take a look at our latest blog post for some fantastic ideas involving our local trustworthy verified suppliers.
We have everything you need to help you organise a lovely day for your Mum whilst supporting local businesses here in Evesham. Click the link below to check out the guide now.
Get our guide to celebrating Mother's day in Evesham here
New Members This Month
 Bibsy BoutiquePre-loved Fashion Boutique offering high street and designer brands at bargain prices |  Food to GoFast Food Restaurant based at the Velo Park, Evesham | |
 Fun While You LearnEnglish tuition for children aged between 5 to 11 years and support for adults learning English as a second language. |
New Stallholders wanted for Evesham Market
Are you a trader looking for a new or further home for your business?
Bluebell Events, organisers of Evesham's bi-weekly high street market are looking for new traders to fulfill their ambitions of expanding this popular town market.
The market currently features a fantastic eclectic selection of regular vendors but has space for more local traders. Whether you are a grower, crafter, artisan, or food producer - they want you.
Evesham sees a lot of footfall both at the weekend and during the week so by holding your own stall, you can show off your business to the Evesham's local community and pick up some new regular customers.
Stalls are available to hire on a Tuesday or a Saturday on a regular or one-off basis to suit your needs with prices starting from as little as £20 a day. Each pitch comes with everything you need, you'll just need to bring your products with you. (Stalls subject to approval by Site Manager).
Introducing.... Bibsy Boutique
In February, we marked random acts of kindness day by promising to offer 3 months of free advertising for a small/new local Evesham-based business. There were many nominations but ultimately, the winner was Bibsy Boutique.
We chose Bibsy Boutique because it's a start up business in a competitive industry with limited presence in the Vale, so we wanted to see her succeed. She's also taken some very brave steps as a young entrepreneur, renting a shop and building a brand so we feel she deserves some support from us.
Who are Bibsy Boutique?
Bibsy Boutique was created by owner Isabella Dix who is passionate about finding designer clothing at affordable prices. She wanted to provide a unique, sustainable and local shopping experience whilst giving luxurious clothing a second chance to be worn and enjoyed.
In her boutique located in Cadbury Courtyard, Blackminster, you can discover a great selection of pre-loved ladieswear items in a range of sizes to fit everyone. She also plans to sell her items through her website in the near future so watch this space.
In an age of fast disposable fashion, we think what Isabella is doing is absolutely fantastic. She's giving items a new lease of life and keeping them out of landfill which we can all agree is good for the environment and our planet.
To find out more about Isabella and her shop you can check her out on her Facebook page or website.
Business Dates for Your Diary
Non League Networking - Thursday 28th March 12-2pm EUFC - £10 for ENB Members
Evesham Noticeboard Networking with Guest Speakers - March 14th 12.15pm Everyone welcome £10.00
Business owners enjoy Belly Bites and networking at Stirrups
Last month, business owners met up at the popular Stirrups for an evening of networking with Evesham Noticeboard. The entrepreneurs enjoyed Stirrups' amazing pork belly bites whilst networking with their fellow local business owners.
There was also the opportunity to try out some 'Speed Networking' which was a lot of fun and a quick way to meet others in the room.
Thanks to all who made it and to Stirrups for the fantastic food.
Don't miss the next one on 14th March with a new time of 12.15 - 2.15. (Venue TBC) You can book using the link below
Evesham's Women Lead The Way for International Women’s Day
March 8th marks International Women's Day, and we're thrilled to shout out our awesome female-led businesses right here in Evesham. These incredible women are the driving force behind our town's economic and social scene, making it a vibrant place to be.
Whether it's well-established businesses or fresh and exciting startups, Evesham is rocking a diverse mix of ventures led by inspiring women. Our female led businesses, boost economic growth, provide more jobs to the community and bring innovation to the table. They’re also role models for future generations who look to them as examples of what can be achieved.
Their hard work and passion shine through in the success stories of their businesses, spanning everything from retail and hospitality to professional services and the creative industries.
But it also doesn't stop there! These leading ladies aren't just busy running successful businesses; they're also deeply involved in the local community. They're all about collaboration, supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and making our town a better place.
With International Women's Day this month, we thought it was the perfect time to give Evesham’s amazing female-led businesses a shout out to celebrate their achievements and recognise the crucial role they play in shaping Evesham's present and future.
Let's continue to celebrate their stories and contributions, inspiring and empowering the women of tomorrow to chase their entrepreneurial dreams and keep adding chapters to our town's success story. Cheers to the awesome ladies of Evesham!
Search our directory of female-led businesses
Hot Tubs Rock to host the Beefy Boys!
It's official!!! The world famous award winning burger artists, the beefy boys are coming to Blackminster.
Local business Hot Tubs Rock are hosting a pop up event at their premises with special guests the Beefy Boys due to make an appearance. For those not aware, the Beefy Boys started off as four mates who loved to barbeque in their gardens in Hereford. Friends and Family were impressed by their skills so the boys decided to enter a BBQ competition in Bristol called Grillfest.
Unbelievably, the Beefy Boys won the award for best burger and were entered into the World Food Championships in Las Vegas representing the UK. Out of 50 entrants they placed 2nd in the world - a crazy achievement for four lads who just liked cooking burgers in their gardens in Hereford.
After that everything changed with 500-600 people typically turning up to their pop up events. The Beefy Boys have since gone on to give up their day jobs and now own three restaurants in Hereford, Shrewsbury and Cheltenham.
They've also since won further awards including Signature Burger and Burger Chef of the Year at the national burger awards - their burgers are truly the best in the country.
Why not come try them out yourself and check out the hot tubs, saunas and swim spa's available to buy and hire from the fabulous Hot Tubs Rock? Their showroom will be open until late and Divine Donuts will be on site too.
The Event takes place on the 12th March from 4.30pm onwards at Hot Tubs Rock so don't miss out!!
Fantastic Job Opportunity at Cannins
Bradfords - coming to a small screen near you
It was Lights, Camera, Action! a few weeks ago at Bradford's Carpets, Flooring and Beds when filmmakers arrived to record footage for an upcoming television ad.
The local business has expanded into commercial advertising with adverts due to start airing to Evesham's Sky customers in May. Adverts are expected to air on Sky's channels for several months
We can't wait to see the final ad when it launches in a few months' time!
How to make your business stand out with storytelling
As business owners, we're always busy. We have orders and work to do for clients, staff to manage, bills to pay and admin to do.
We also have to think about actually marketing our businesses so that we have a constant pipeline of clients and customers who want our services.
But marketing a business is no mean feat. You have to manage your marketing channels - your website, social media, print and email all at the same time. And with so many different marketing strategies to try things can get pretty complicated and confusing.
If you are doing it alone or have minimal staff, its best to focus your marketing on one or two platforms. This can make things easier and less stressful to manage, but you still have to decide what content you are going to put out there.
How are you going to attract business and stand out from your competitors?
One of the easiest ways to stand out is to use stories in your marketing. Stories have been around for thousands of years and they can entertain, inspire and motivate your dream clients. Their relatability helps you to create a deeper connection so that you can build trust and be seen as the leader in your industry.
Our stories are what makes us human and they also are unique to us. No one else has your experiences or your perspective so telling stories will set you apart.
By using stories in your marketing to share your business successes, challenges, customer transformations, business history and your motivation, you'll attract more of the business you want and see your business grow.
Start by keeping a daily story log where you note down anything interesting that has happened to you (good or bad) and you'll quickly amass loads of content ideas that you can use.
Everyone has a story. What's yours?
Need help telling your story? Gemma from Vale Digital is your local Business Storyteller who can help you grow your audience and attract more clients. Get in touch today to find out how she can help you.
Hot new look for Hot Tubs Rock
Local hot tub, sauna and swim spa provider, Hot Tubs Rock are rocking a brand new look after having a makeover of their shop frontage.
The boutique, located on the Blackminster business park, has had new signage and artificial walls installed and we think it looks great!!!
Go check them out!
Reptile Rescue Charity Join Finalists in Awards
Congratulations to local charity Axolotl & Reptile Rescue And Advice UK who are through to the final round of nominations at the Animal Star Awards. The charity is a finalist in the UK rescue of the year and we have our fingers crossed for them.
Iconic Beautique celebrates 10th anniversary
Congratulations to Iconic Beautique who recently celebrated their 10th Anniversary on the 8th February. This local beauty salon offers a fantastic selection of spa and beauty treatments from their home on the Evesham high street.
Happy anniversary to all the team at Iconic Beautique and here's to another 10 years!!!
Thanks for reading!
We hope you've enjoyed the February 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! Kim and Gemma help us with their creative skills to produce informative posts and newsletters! I would be lost without them, so big big thanks ladies!
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