The Signpost - April 2021

TH E SO ME RF OR DS

THE

April 2021

THE MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR LITTLE & GREAT SOMERFORD, STARTLEY, SEAGRY, RODBOURNE & CORSTON

Spring Awakening

The COVID-19 outbreak means that all events are cancelled for the time being Note all issues of Signpost are available online on the ISSUU app or in your browser. Simply search for Signpost.

Let your neighbours know As not everyone uses social media, our main method of communicating that The Signpost’s latest offering is online, could you please support us by sharing the link with your friends and neighbours so that we can reach as many people as possible.

Front, Above, and Back Cover: Steve Reay

Contents Diary Dates ..................................................................... 2 Editorial ........................................................................... 3 Signpost Organising Group ......................................... 3 Local News and Events ...............................................4-8 Mael Dub ......................................................................... 9 Uncovering Great Somerford’s Past ..........................8-9 Your local food services ....................................... 10-11 Guide Dogs ......................................................................12 Riverwatch ......................................................................13 Our Countryside ............................................................ 14 From Times Gone By ..................................................... 15

2

Signpost April 2021

Little Somerford’s People.............................................. 16 Schools ............................................................................. 17 SHASA and Seagry Parish Council ............................ 18 Great Somerford Parish Council ................................. 19 Little Somerford Parish Council ............................. 20-21 Advertisements ......................................................... 21-32 Church services .............................................................. 33 Contacts ........................................................................... 34 Back Page ....................................................................... 35

Firstly I would like to say hello as I am one of the 'newbies' on the team. We moved to the village just over 2 years ago after living in France for 13 years. so we are still feeling our way around at the moment.

We feel very lucky that we chose to move here into such a lovely and friendly area.

Now we are in 2021 who would have thought that we would still be wondering if it would be possible to go abroad for that well earned holiday, or that the pubs and restaurants would still be out of bounds. I have thought a number of times about the reaction I would have got just over a year ago if, on stopping outside my bank, I had put a mask on before going in! I do believe that I would have been trying to answer some awkward questions at our local Police Station. Such are the changes we have become used to.

It's easy to feel that Spring is on its way at last and it seems to have been quite a long cold and wet winter. One of the first signs of its arrival is the merry sound of lawn mowers! It is lovely to see the birds preparing for it with their nest building and courting. The other day I was looking out of one of our side windows and there on the fence just a few feet away was a robin with a stick in its beak. It was quite odd though as the stick was nearly as big as the robin!

Thinking of lawn mowers, when we were living

Editorial Contact Editorial Team

Village Correspondents Corston Great Somerford Little Somerford Rodbourne Seagry Startley Church Matters School Matters Advertising and Finance Distribution

in France we were not far north of the Pyrénées Mountains. We had a fair sized garden and the grass only needed cutting 3 or 4 times a year. It was quite a shock when it reverted to every couple of weeks or so, if I was lucky! Living there was lovely but the beer is a lot better this side of the Channel.

One of the advantages of the Signpost being on line at the moment was pointed out to me by Peter and that is that we now have colour photos all through the magazine and not just on the front and rear pages. It's funny how things work out.

I am sure that I will not make too much of a mess whilst sat in the Editor’s chair. The team will hopefully dig me out of any hole I get into.

John Fairbairn

Peter Oliver Sara Sorby Jake Vale Michael Palmer Lucy Dalgleish John Fairbairn Sophie Malpas Dawn Duo

01666 822342 07774 605431 01249 721208 01666 826390 07909 962067 01666 822167 07850 139100 01249 720217

peteroliver@waitrose.com sarasorby@yahoo.co.uk jakesignpost@uwclub.net michaelpalmer@btinternet.com lucydalgleish@hotmail.com jonzjob@gmail.com sophiemalpas@btinternet.com dawn.duo@hotmail.co.uk

Brenda Oliver Jake Vale Julie Frayling Sara Sorby Jo Crosland Jenny Reeves Jo Crosland Jake Vale Brenda Oliver Steve Reay

01666 822342 01249 721208 01666 823799 07774 605431 01249 720429 01249 720521 01249 720429 01249 721208 01666 822342 07966 743492

signpost@hotmail.co.uk jakesignpost@uwclub.net juliefrayling123@outlook.com sarasorby@yahoo.co.uk jocrosland1@gmail.com jen.reeves@hotmail.co.uk jocrosland1@gmail.com jakesignpost@uwclub.net signpost@hotmail.co.uk

Copyright Please note that all written and photographic material published in Signpost remains the copyright of the author/photographer and may not be reproduced without permission Signpost April 2021

3

Donations

Malmesbury & District u3a

We have received donations amounting to £24.

Anyone wishing to make a donation towards the cost of producing Signpost should send a cheque to The Hermitage, Corston, Malmesbury, SN16 0HB. Thank you.

We are still in lock down but it looks like the end is in sight! Many of us have had our vaccinations and are looking forward to being able to meet friends and family. We all need all the support and companionship we can get. Look no further than Malmesbury u3a. If you are retired or semi retired and enjoy meeting people while learning something new then we have around 40 different interest groups to tempt you. Even though at the moment we cannot meet in person some groups meet online.

What we do have for all 400 members to enjoy are the following talks on Zoom. Note the dates in your diary.

• April 8: Malmesbury in the news from the 1830s

by Susan Mockler • April 22: The Work of the Marie Curie Charity by Riona Houghton • May 13: A programme of songs and their accompanying stories by Steve and Carol Robson Audience participation (even on zoom) is almost mandatory!

If you are not a member you can still join us.

Contact the membership secretary, Elaine Sharpe 01666 823568, become a member and enjoy the general talks. Then explore all the opportunities and get involved as soon as the present covid restrictions allow. In normal times u3a meets on the 4th Thursday of the month at Malmesbury town hall from 10 - 11.45 for tea/coffee a chat and to listen to a monthly speaker. The interest groups are wide ranging such as learning a language, arts and crafts, science, music appreciation, dancing, walking, cycling, theatre visits, book groups, play readings and many more.

You can find more information on our website: http://www.malmesburyu3a.org.uk.

Great Somerford 2020 Vision Hundred Club Lottery – Results By some accident, February’s results did not appear and so here is my carefully crafted notice once more: “Still not much sign of the numbers coming down, although the media seem to think differently!

On 7 February, Jude Picton Phillipps drew the numbers and the winners, in no particular order, were: David Gray, Ros Blount and Fiona Rivers.

Congratulations to them all!”

And on 7 March, whilst I am in a minority in thinking that over 6,000 new infections and over 200 dead people daily is still too many, Jude once again did the honours and in no particular order, the winners were Ron Fisher, Christopher Blount and Melvyn Hourigan, Congratulations to them too.

A gentle reminder that the Lottery was established not just to support the 2020 Vision Project but also to contribute to the ongoing maintenance of your church. I will be contacting our current supporters in April hoping that their support will continue through the next year. Just because the church is temporarily closed does not mean that it can just be left to slowly become decrepit!

But if you are new to the village or to the Lottery and would like to take part please contact Tom Picton Phillipps on 01249 721202 or at tom.pictonphillipps@btinternet.com or knock on his door at 4 Paddock Close. It only costs £5.00 a month.

Depending on the degree to which support is maintained or enlarged the level of prizes (currently £125.00, £75.00 and £50.00 monthly) may have to be varied.

Corston & Rodbourne Reading Room 200 Club The draws have been postponed until the Covid restrictions have been lifted.

Any enquiries regarding the 200 Club, please contact Norma on Tel: 01666 825303.

4

Signpost April 2021

Athelstan Museum Online Program April and May 14 April 6:30 pm “Voices around Malmesbury Abbey” by Bill Reed Stories from the Abbey and its surroundings, from the Museum’s award-winning collection of spoken memories.

Tickets £5 from the Museum Website: athelstanmuseum.org.uk

The Little Somerford Snowman This year I made our snowman ‘Covid safe’ Here is my New Zealand flax, my little slice of home!

He is apparently very photogenic, judging by the amount of times I see people with cameras out. He occasionally receives mail too!

It makes me very happy to know that he brings a smile to so many people and especially after what was an awful year.

He’ll be back next year and probably even bigger than this year!

Arlene Bishop.

.

Above: Norman Clark, Rev. Peter Barton and Wally Weekes in 1979 5 May 6:30 pm “The Pursuit and Sinking of the Bismarck” 80 years ago, on 24 May, more than a hundred British warships were involved in a desperate 5 day, 1,750 mile hunt for the mighty German battleship Bismarck, which disappeared for more than 24 hours and was almost within reach of safety before it was tracked down. David Bickerton’s father was a crewman aboard HMS Dorsetshire which was involved in the final showdown.

Tickets £5 from the Museum Website: athelstanmuseum.org.uk

Above: The Bismarck *Also see article entitled “A Little Snippet from my Research” on page 16.

Goss Croft Community Hall Good news, the Trustees are planning ahead to when the hall can be used again, albeit within the confines of Governmental and ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England) Guidelines.

Currently, we are working towards opening on 17 May, which is the earliest possible date for community halls to open.

As you will appreciate there are and will be restrictions. For further details of what is permissible please go to our website www. gosscrofthall.co.uk and read the ACRE guidance.

To book the hall, contact the Booking Secretary: Melanie Powell 0779 717663 (please leave a voicemail if calling during the day) or email enquiries@gosscrofthall.co.uk If you wish for further clarification re the regulations contact Chair of Trustees, Ian Blackmore 01249 720009.

We look forward to seeing you and to the hall being back in community use! www.gosscrofthall.co.uk Signpost April 2021

5

Little Somerford Women’s Institute Hello Ladies – it is some time since there has been anything to report, but now that some of the restrictions are easing and the future looks more promising, the committee felt it was a good time to get in touch.

In January, beautiful bowls of Violas were delivered to every member, paid for from funds.

As we have a healthy bank balance, we are proposing to subsidise the annual subscriptions for 2021/2022 which are due in April. This means that members will pay £22.40 instead of £44.00 (£12.10 to NFWI and £10.30 to WFWI).

We recently received a request from the Premature Babies Unit at Great Western Hospital for knitted baby hats, and Pam Jenkins has been busy knitting and has produced 15 pairs to date. On the social side, we are hoping to meet (socially distancing) for coffee at Hortico, Sherston in early May. We are planning to have a Spring Pub Lunch at La Flambe after 17 May when groups of six can meet.

In June and July we will have garden meetings (weather permitting) at Dee’s and Fiona’s.

6

Signpost April 2021

We are hoping that events will return to normal

by September. With this in mind, we are planning to restart meetings and are making a major change: Our monthly meetings will be held in Little Somerford Village Hall on the third Tuesday, commencing at 2.00 pm.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone again, and also welcoming visitors and new members. We should be able to give more details in the May issue, and further information can be obtained from Ellie Church (President) on 01666 520490.

Little Somerford Wildlife Friendly Village Calling all young artists & designers (up to 11 years old).

Little Somerford Parish Council are asking you to design a logo for our Wildlife Friendly Village project. The aim of the project is to think more about how we can all work together to support the current flora and fauna and to increase wildlife and biodiversity not only in our village green spaces but in gardens and fields as well. In support of the Climate Emergency. We want to know what people are already doing to support this and encourage more initiatives. How would you like to see our village looking in 20 years? What areas would you like to see become more wild and natural?

The Parish Council have identified these green spaces in the village:Allotments: Identify areas to have wildflowers sown and the creation of a community orchard also thicken the roadside hedge.

Identify areas that could have Cemetery: wildflowers sown and grass not mown.

Millennium Green: Identify areas that could have wildflowers sown and grass not mown.

Causeway (towards Gt Somerford): Identify verge to sow wildflowers and become a wild area.

Grass Verges: Identify verges along each road in the Parish which could have wildflowers sown, which should be mown regularly for highways safety and which should be left alone as a “wild area” and notify Wiltshire Council regarding this.

Things that people can do in their own gardens: • Leave a wild area in their garden or field • Put up bird boxes, bat boxes, insect & bug hotels • Ensure there are hedgehog corridors • Bird feeders • Plant wildflower borders around fields & area of gardens • Build Hibernacula (piles of logs, sticks covered with turf) • Build a mini pond/a mini meadow.

Please send your entries (on A4 paper) either by email to clerk@littlesomerfordparishcouncil.gov.uk or deliver by hand to 1 Field View with your name, age and contact number attached. The winner will be announced at the Annual Parish Meeting on 11 May.

Walking In Wiltshire Are you fed-up with doing the same old walks?

Walking in Wiltshire ww.walkinginengland.co.uk/wiltshire is the website for you!

With hundreds of walks to download and print for free, it also has books of walks, contact details for all the walking groups in the county and much more.

Whether you want to walk on your own or with a group all the information is there in one place.

There is so much walking information on the web but it is difficult to find. Walking in Wiltshire (part of the Walking in England suite of websites (www.walkinginengland.co.uk) – one for each county in England) has brought it together in one place so whether you are walking from home, or away on holiday, you will be able to find a walk suitable for you.

With walks from half a mile to twelve miles plus long, and a note of suitability for pushchairs and wheelchairs, everyone can find a walk to enjoy.

So home or away, check out the website and get walking!

John Harris www.walkinginengland.co.uk email: john@walkinginengland.co.uk

Signpost April 2021

7

Great Somerford Community Shelf Following on from the success of our biscuit deliveries at Christmas and the launch of the community shelf where we were selling Sarah Law’s fabulous Snowman and Reindeer fairy cakes the Community Shelf is taking on a life of its own. The idea is to raise money for local causes whether it be the Church, the schools, the playground, the community magazine (aka Signpost!) or other projects that come to mind. This is particularly relevant whilst we are restricted from our larger more traditional fundraising activities such as the Church Fete, Christmas bazaars or school events.

The Community Shelf, by kind permission of Rohit and the team in Fourway Stores, will focus on key dates in the year and so far we have covered Valentine’s day, are in full swing on Mothering Sunday and our next event will be around Easter.

To date the shelf has raised £400 of which £200 has been given to make improvements in the playground and the other £200 has gone to the Great Somerford Community Fund. Funds raised around Mothering Sunday will go to the village schools and our Easter event will be allocated to the Church. As you can see from the pictures we have had fairy cakes, carrot cakes, porter cake, jams, jellies and curds, napkins, brioche, brandy snaps and macarons. We can also be persuaded to produce other goodies to order – Debs has done a brisk trade in Pavlovas and is working on a new venture for Easter.

Thank you to everyone who has been involved whether by making, baking donating, pre-ordering, buying or eating our goodies – it couldn’t have happened without you. Particular thanks to the team at Fourways stores for letting us have the shelf and for taking the money.

8

Signpost September 2020

Mael Dub

This picture was given to my wife and I by a retired history lecturer who was a guest at our house in Great Somerford. Whilst staying he had visited Malmesbury Abbey and was very pleased to see that the Abbey had a stained glass window of Mael Dub (Saint Mael Dub). He considered Mael Dub to be overlooked in history and thought him equal in importance as Saint Augustine in terms of the establishment of Christianity in the British Isles.

Having taken an interest in what he had to say he kindly gave me this watercolour.

The little written on Mael Dub does seem to support the history professor’s belief that the saint was discredited. For example, the Norman Abbot of Malmesbury Warin of Lyre cast out his bones from the Abbey and relegated them to a remote corner of St. Michael’s church. In fact, the few things known about this saint is the reason for his name which translates as Dark Saint.

Mael Dub was an Irish monk and founded a monastic house at Malmesbury (called Bladon at the time) in the early part of the 7th Century. He died in c. 675. Bede implied that the monastery was named after him (Ecclesiastical History of the English People 5.18, the monastery which they call the monastery of Mael Dub [quod Maildubi Urbem nuncupant]). Among his pupils were Aldhelm, the founder of the Abbey, and Daniel of Winchester. This Irish missionary was not the only Celtic influence in the local and wider area shown in some of the architecture (Celtic designs on the War Memorial in Malmesbury) and the name of the river Avon derives from an old Celtic word meaning river or water. The establishment of Christianity in England and later in Wales and Scotland was a long and rocky road. There was the modest British delegation to the 353 Council

of Rimini but they had to beg financial assistance from their fellows to return home. The first introduction of the faith is difficult to pinpoint but some believe the faith first came with Roman artisans and took hold in the elites of mainland Britain in the 4th Century. The arrival of the Saxons was a setback for the Christian church and not until the Gregorian Mission from Rome in c. 600 with Saint Augustine that a more secure foothold was created in Kent and later Northumbria.

It is difficult to find much information on Mael Dub but it is known he set up his mission at Malmesbury with the abbey completed shortly after in 676. It was not until 735 that Canterbury and York Cathedrals were built. It seems that Mael Dub is responsible for the formation of Christianity in Wessex before its spread through other kingdoms on the south and western side of the British Isles. Sir Roger Scruton said of Malmesbury Abbey “the Abbey lying in the ruins at its apex like the ark of Noah on Mount Sinai”. So perhaps Mael Dub was a Noah fostering the fledgling religion in the pagan land.

Michael Llewellen Palmer

Signpost April 2021

9

Radnor Arms, Corston.

With the advent of lockdown easing why not come and join us for a refreshing escape and enjoy some traditional pub food and drink in one of our newly scaped outside areas, we now have Sail covered tables, large Gazebo with firepit, smaller heated Gazebo and other tables with firepit and Chiminea dotted around for those colder rainy days.

➢ Our Full Restaurant Menu will be available from week commencing the 12th April for outside dining. ➢ From 12th April Takeaway Menu(s) will be available alongside all restaurant service days.

Presently Weekday Takeaway is Friday/Saturday (5.30 – 7.30); Sunday Roast Takeaway 12-2.30pm (order by 2pm Sat) ➢ Booking is advisable: To book a table or place a takeaway order please call Paula on 07912 868111.

Please visit our website www.radnorarms.com for full details of opening hours and menus.

10

Signpost April 2021

Rohit remains open for business, supported by his team in the shop and volunteer deliverers to supply all your needs.

Newspapers, fresh fruit and veg, fresh and frozen meat, ice-cream, bread, alcohol, tinned food, toilet rolls and flour are available as well as cards, stationery, and cleaning products to name but a few.

If not in stock weʼll do our best to get it for you.

Post Office also open ONLY 4 PEOPLE in the shop at a time Deliveries (minimum £30) can be arranged.

Signpost April 2021

11

The human race is an extremely varied and complex species, though I consider myself a very simple person taking pleasure in such things like the miracle that is the birth of a great grandchild and the myriad wonders of Nature.

Those who know me well – and lots more who do not - realise how passionate I am about my favourite charity, Guide Dogs UK. With that in mind I would like to share a true story with you all that helps to highlight my love of this charity (and dogs in general), the importance of the efforts made by Guide Dogs UK both locally and nationally and, most importantly of all, the indomitable spirit of just one person living in a world of almost complete darkness.

The story is from a short while ago and concerns a young Lady and how a Guide Dog has transformed her life. For obvious reasons I will not disclose the name of the Lady but I will let her own words tell the tale:“My passion goes back a long way. As a child I spent a lot of time in hospital where there were always coloured pens and crayons to hand and I found that drawing helped me cope as my sight deteriorated. As time went on I'd always dream of studying art but trapped at home and lacking confidence, it just wasn't going to happen. Getting my Guide Dog opened up a world of opportunity, and thanks to her I was able to leave home, go to Leeds and study for an illustration degree. I even got voted “Student of the year” and now I'm working towards fulfilling my dream of having a career as a children's book illustrator – a future that's only possible thanks to my Guide Dog and the kind supporters who funded her.”

“I only have 8% vision in one eye and people often ask how I manage to paint and draw with such limited vision. I have congenital cataracts so the most important thing is light – I surround myself with bright lights. In order to choose the right colours I make braille labels for all my pencils and markers and create swatches of products so I can feel their textures. Having my Guide Dog has given me the confidence to draw with feeling and I put my heart and soul into my work.” What an amazing, inspirational young lady!

12

Signpost April 2021

The coronavirus has had devastating effects on all aspects of life, however Guide Dogs have managed to help create a positive by giving certain dogs a whole new career. Some dogs just can't keep their noses off the ground and as such will never make good guides. Three such dogs - Ivan, Maple and Spencer were relocated to another charity Medical Detection Dogs and were retrained to identify coronavirus by smell, mingling among crowds.

Dauntsey Farm Shop has been running an ongoing tombola throughout January and February and more recently a “Name the Doll”competition.

We are most grateful to Sarah who donated the hand made doll. All of which has helped increase the “Name a Puppy” fund to £1944.93.

We have also been selling tickets for an Easter themed raffle during March (Easter seems to get earlier every year). We are extremely grateful to all those supporting us by making and/or donating fabulous prizes – a very special mention to Jen from Minety who goes the extra mile on every occasion and all those buying raffle tickets. We will give an update next month.

Last but not least many thanks to Tracey and family at Dauntsey Farm Shop, not only for their efforts keeping us supplied with essential produce during these extremely difficult times, but also still managing to find time and enthusiasm to continue raising funds for Guide Dogs UK. Please support them as much as you can.

Stay safe and keep the faith – I'm sure there is light at the end of the tunnel, or is that the needle!

Steve

The Dawn Symphony From the end of March and through into the start of May, I love to wake early to hear the sweetest of music seeping into our bedroom and my dawning consciousness.

Starting in around 5:45 am in the early part of April, and progressively later as day length extends, the concerto often starts with the mellifluous voice of a blackbird. This is progressively augmented by twittering and fluting from robins and wrens, the choir swelling progressively as various tits and other invisible vocalists join the throng. Later in the cycle, an increasingly scarce cuckoo may echo from the cover of a distant wood. Often, the loudest amongst them is the disproportionately massive vocalisation of the tiniest of wrens.

From sporadic fluting, the overture builds. It swells over long minutes, evolving into a central movement of full song. Then, progressively, the song cycle wanes after anything between a half-hour and a full hour, with often a momentary pause before the coarse crackle of rooks and the cooing of wood pigeons signal a segue into sounds of full daytime.

As the daylight strengthens, other sounds of full daytime take their place, including the flapping squabble of wood pigeons on the power line running in front of the house. The noises of busy humanity too increasingly intrude, breaking the spell of nature in largely uninterrupted finery.

day as well as a call to potential mates at the outset of the breeding season.

But, in that delicious half-slumbering state on first waking, I am happy to allow my scientific mind a little rest and to float with the poets with the waxing and waning of the dawn symphony. From Chaucer to Bernard Shaw, poets have celebrated the dawn chorus, birdsong inspiring music in many forms from Vaughan Williams to Beethoven, Vivaldi and Benjamin Britten.

There is, in fact, an International Dawn Chorus Day set on the first Sunday of May, albeit that the preceding month is often the time of richest tunefulness. Framed as a worldwide celebration of nature's greatest symphony, International Dawn Chorus Day encourages people across the globe to rise early to experience the magnificence of the dawn soundscape. Many do so, though very many more do not, or at least do not intentionally, as the dawn chorus by that date starts around 4:30am. However, in reality, the ‘International’ tag is mainly a British invention as, down in the southern hemisphere, autumn is already processing at pace towards winter.

Whatever its biological functions and the tags that we humans put upon it, the dawn chorus is a thing of beauty and wonder, a free gift from the natural world, and a balm for the soul lightening whatever concerns may otherwise clamour for our attention.

To wake with the birds is a wonderful thing.

Dr Mark Everard

From a crudely analytical perspective, the dawn chorus is little more than a mass clarion cry of sex and threat. Why would a potential prey animal announce itself so stridently to the wider world, if not for compelling reasons of survival? Doing so in the half-light when most sight-dependent predators, such as sparrow hawks, are at a disadvantage is a cunning strategy. However, it still entails risk. Bird songs, for all their beauty, are in the main an announcement staking a territorial claim on the new Signpost April 2021

13

Road Side Litter As someone who enjoys cycling and walking, I have been increasingly concerned about the quantities of roadside litter which are building up, making our lanes look like a rubbish dump. We spent a couple of hours collecting up what is mainly fast food rubbish from the lanes around Rodbourne: cans and plastic bottles, crisp packets and sweet wrappers, MacDonald and KFC cartons, Costa coffee cups and plastic lids. We filled our wheely bin to the brim! The problem is that very little of it will ever break down, and every time the verges are cut it gets flailed into ever smaller fragments and becomes impossible to collect. It also shows a total disregard for the countryside and natural beauty.

It is worth remembering that leaving litter is actually an offence under section 87 of the.

Environmental Protection Act 1990 and that litter is anything from a crisp packet or cigarette butt to a bag of rubbish.

If everyone took a bag and a pair of gloves with them when out walking for the next few weeks of lockdown, we could collectively make a REAL DIFFERENCE to the way our local countryside looks. If we all do nothing, the problem will just keep growing.

A Corston resident

Corston Pond Local Nature Reserve Thanks to the efforts of the local band of volunteers last autumn, the pond is looking great and is full of water, just right for the imminent return of amphibians such as toads and great crested newts.

Very sadly, some people are allowing their dogs to foul the area - I recently had to deal with TEN large dog poo leavings, not something I should have to do. PLEASE can everyone remember this is a nature reserve for wildlife and very popular for families and children, not somewhere to empty the dog. Dog poo is unpleasant and a health hazard.

Contact with it can cause toxocariasis – (https:// www.nhs.uk/conditions/toxocariasis/) a very nasty infection that can lead to dizziness, nausea, and even blindness or seizures.

While most dog owners are responsible individuals, it is a shame some are not. Failure to clear up after your dog makes you liable to a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100, or a fine of up to £1000 under the Dog Fouling Act of 2016. The law states that being unaware a dog has fouled or not having a suitable bag is not a reasonable excuse.

14

Signpost April 2021

Please help me to keep this area free of dog poo by talking to anyone you see emptying their dog in the nature reserve. We want to make sure everyone can enjoy their visit safely. Unless there is an improvement we may at least have to consider banning all dogs from the Reserve.

Ann Skinner

More on Dogs I would like to echo “The Corston Resident” about the dog poo she has been talking of. We have just had a nice walk from Corston up to and around Rodbourne Bottom. On the way back we had a look round the back of Corston church and the grave yard. It's such a lovely and peaceful place. I took a couple of photos and we wandered back home.

I was really upset to see that there were three lots of dog muck between the west end of the church and the west gate. For crying out loud, it is a CHURCH YARD and NOT a dogs toilet!

I was even more pleased when we got back home and discovered that I had found one that I hadn't seen. It had to be in the church yard because we had only been on the tarmac road before that.

So, now I have the wonderful job of cleaning my trainers because of someone else's laziness of not having the courtesy of cleaning up after their dog.

After all, it isn't the type of thing you would normally look out for in your local church yard is it?

THANK YOU VERY MUCH. John Fairbairn.

P.S. I just wonder if the proud dog owner will have the courtesy to go and clean it up?

From Times Gone By A few years ago I transcribed the ‘Recipe Booke’ or what we would term the ‘Remedy Book’ for Johanna St John of Lydiard House in Swindon whilst I volunteered there.

It was an amazing project which in equal parts I laughed, gagged and marvelled at. Nevertheless I am extremely proud to have been able to share this amazing part of 17th Century medicine. It was a closed book sitting in the climatically controlled storeroom at the ‘Welcome Trust’ in London and now it is available for anyone in the world to see.

Enjoy, but don’t try these at home!

Transcription For Convultion fitts A stone growing in the gal of old oxe & the same quantity of a Dead mans scul that coms to an untimely end mixe an equal quantity & give the child as much as will lya on a e pence a little before the fit comes the Hare that grows between the Hinder legs of a Hee Bear boiled in Brandy til the Brandy Consumed lay in worm to the soles of the feet A stone growing in the gal (bile) of an old ox and the same quantity of a dead man’s skull that comes to an untimely end, mix an equal quantity and give the child as much as will lie on a ‘e pence’ (coin) a little before a fit comes. The hair that grows between the hind legs of a male bear boiled in brandy until the brandy is consumed, lay it warm on the soles of the feet. (presumably the stone and skull are ground down!)

For wormes Children New milk sweeten it with Hony give 3 spoonfulls to a child fasting it will burst the wormes the same in a Glyster is good so is sweet wort will bring them away abundantly Glyster = enema Snayl water for a Consumtion (Consumption = Tuberculosis) A qtr of a peck of shel snayls washt in 3 waters beak them & put them in a stil with 2 quarts of new milk an ounce of cynamen a handful of mint take half a pint sweetened with Barley sugar twice a day A quarter of a peck of snail shells washed in water 3 times, break them and put them in a still with 2 quarts of new milk, an ounce of cinnamon, a handful of mint. Take half a pint, sweetened with barley sugar, twice a day.

For fitts Three ounces of suger candy a pennyworth of saffron put thes into a pigs bladder hang it in cold water when it is melted give the child night & morning one two or 3 sponfuls according to the age this cured nan shropshirs child when the tongue hung out of its mouth like a foole

For sore eyes Lady St John The white part of the Dung of a House Henn dry it in the sunn or by the fier the like quantity of powder of ginger twice as much fine suger mingle thes & blow it with a quil into the eye or leave out the ginger & put the rest in breast milk & so drop it in for a rednes & heat in the eye prick the round rundle of a House snayl & let the clear water from it drop into the eye The white part of the dung of a house hen, dry it in the sun or by the fire, the like quantity of powder of ginger, twice as much fine sugar, mingle these and blow it with a quill into the eye. Or leave out the ginger and put the rest into breast milk and drop it into the eye.

For a redness or heat in the eye, prick the round rundle of a house snail and let the clear water from it drip into the eye.

For sore Leggs that have Holes & stink Smiths water put to it new cowdung done in the house boyle them together bathe your leggs as hott as yu can suffer it Smiths water (another remedial cordial) put into it new cowdung, done in the house. Boil them together then bathe your legs as hot as you can suffer it.

Arlene Bishop

Serious Lockdown Advice Everyone PLEASE be careful because people are going crazy from being locked down at home!

I was just talking about this with the microwave and the toaster while drinking my tea and we all agreed that things are getting bad.

I didn’t mention any of this to the washing machine, because she puts a different spin on EVERYTHING!! Certainly couldn’t share with the fridge, cause he’s been acting cold and distant!

In the end, the iron straightened me out! She said the situation isn’t all that pressing and all the wrinkles will soon get ironed out!

The vacuum, however, was very unsympathetic….told me to just suck it up! But the fan was VERY optimistic and gave me hope that it will all blow over soon!

The toilet looked a bit flushed but didn’t say anything when I asked its opinion, but the front door said I was becoming unhinged and the doorknob told me to get a grip!! You can just about guess what the curtains told me: they told me to “pull myself together!”

Dawn Slaughter

Signpost April 2021

15

Some of you may already know of my project to chart every person who is documented as living in Little Somerford. A huge task which I happily call my ‘life’s work.’

Started during the first lockdown, I have a multipage (one for each letter of the alphabet) spreadsheet with over 3000 names with columns of categories of digital information in which they appear. These range from the normal births, baptisms, deaths, burials and marriages, through all the censuses, school, military and taxation records to newspaper mentions, wills and some photos to name but a few.

I see it as an aid for people researching their family history and for my own personal enjoyment!

I’m always on the lookout for new information to incorporate, so if anyone has anything they’d like to pass on (digitally) I’d be most appreciative! I’d love to receive your family trees, newspaper clippings, eulogies, certificates, stories about great Aunt Flo and that time when… and especially photos! Photos of people and houses, yes please!

Of course, in line with genealogical protocols I’ll be verifying everything I am given before incorporation, but as I’ve stated this is an enjoyable long-term project for me and will be of benefit for anyone researching their family in years to come.

I’m looking for this information to be emailed to me please, so either scan or take a photo of the information or photo that you have and send me that: arlene.littlesomerfordhistory@gmail.com.

Many thanks!

Arlene Bishop

16

Signpost April 2021

A Little Snippet From My Research One of the gravestones in our cemetery, near the railway bridge, tells us of PO Frederick Allan Barnes who was killed in action 25 July 1941 aged 28 years.

Looking into his military record, I discovered he was Airman Acting Petty Officer of 808 squadron on board H.M.S Ark Royal at a pivotal time in its history. The hunt for the Bismark.

The Bismark had been spotted late on the evening of the 26 May 1941. Air strikes from the Ark Royal’s Swordfish torpedo bomber planes were ordered and they managed to disable the Bismark’s rudder and steering gear. As a result the Bismark was only able to steam in a large circle. Finally, near midnight, the Bismark’s commander Admiral Lutjens delivered the signal: “Ship unmanouverable. We will fight to the last shell. Long live the Fuhrer.” Over the course of the following day other ships from the home fleet fired upon the Bismark until it finally sunk.

Although I have yet to discover what the Ark Royal was up to when Frederick died on 25 July, I do know that he was a gunner and that he died alongside his lieutenant.

More snippets to come!

PS: If anyone is interested in being involved in a work party to trim and generally tidy around our gravestones when the weather improves, please email me.

A new addition to school is our Positivitree.

During lockdown the children were invited to write or draw something that made them feel positive on a leaf, flower or bird. These have been hung on a special lit tree in the school library.

Somerfords’ Walter Powell School News We had a wonderful surprise on Monday 8 March as SHASA (Home and School Association) had been very busy making pom-poms, bunting and decorations together with a ‘Welcome Back’ banner for the children, families and staff!

Walter Powell Pre-School

What a delight it is to have everyone back at school and to see happy faces and hear the laughter too. All the children have settled back into school very well.

We are very proud of them.

The children at Walter Powell Pre-school have been having lots of fun. We celebrated World Book Day by various activities all week which included dressing up, listening to stories, playing with story bags, looking at books and fishing for sounds. Then outside on den day we marked out a stage from branches. The children then took turns to make up their own stories and Michelle wrote them down.

Then the children directed and acted out their stories, which even used Michelle as a sledge (she's dressed as a bear if you were wondering!). From the pictures you can see the children dancing, using magnifying glasses to look at pictures or be a character in a book and who would have guessed, even princes and princesses climb trees! Imagination is endless!

Our role play post office has been great fun and an easy way to get the children mark making, amazing what you can do with a cardboard box!

Signpost April 2021

17

will really help as we hopefully return to community events in the near future. We look forward to seeing you then!

Angela Parr

Seagry Parish Council

Our Pre-school is now open 08.55 – 14.55 Monday to Friday. We accept children from the age of 2 years.

If you are interested, please contact the Pre-school on 07931 263909 or alternatively contact the school office on 01249 720797 or admin.swp@dbat.org.uk for more information and an application form.

SHASA As the children returned to in-school learning this month (thank you to all the wonderful staff at Walter Powell), the focus turns to Spring and activities we have coming up.

The popular Great Somerford Easter trail will be returning over the school holidays with downloadable trail maps available. Look out on the village Facebook page for more details.

The Spring Rags2Riches collection took place on March 19, thank you as always for the donations received.

This summer we will be putting funds to good use by starting to create a wildflower meadow in the school grounds along with some other projects.

SHASA is also now Gift Aid registered which enables us to claim tax back from HMRC on any donations received from taxpayers - something that 18

Signpost April 2021

Much to discuss at our meeting on 9 March - as always!

Highway matters are increasingly important at present with discussion focussing on the continuing concern with the impact of HGV traffic and tankers, along with the damaged bridge in Hen Lane. Both these matters are being pursued at Wilts CC, supported by our Councillor Howard Greenman.

The state of public footpaths was raised and whilst many of these are in good shape and wellsignposted that may not be the total picture. Please let us know if you have any concerns with specific paths.

It was decided that we will enter the Best Kept Village competition again this year.

We are moving ahead with the purchase of Speed Identification Devices and will be using Wilts CC approved contractors to install the fixing posts once we have decided on the most appropriate locations and consulted with anyone affected. These will complement our ‘Autospeedwatch’ cameras which continue to collect data.

There was a discussion about the planned provision of a ‘distributor’ road around the north and east of Chippenham to facilitate development.

Although not directly affected, the PC are minded to support Option 3 which describes a wider loop around the eastern side of the town to limit development within. There is also a view, popular with local councils, that this road should really be a larger scale ‘relief’ road, more suited for purpose, long term.

The Annual Parish Meeting will be held via ‘Zoom’ on April 13 at 7.30 pm (with the last meeting of this current Council held beforehand at 7 pm).

Local organisations will be invited to report and residents are welcome to attend.

Local elections are on May 6, with many of us opting for a postal vote. The delayed referendum for the Neighbourhood Development Plan will also be held on that day - so don’t forget to vote on that!

More information and detailed minutes of meetings are available on the website www.seagryparishcouncil.gov.uk - and you can always come to a meeting yourself, even on Zoom!

Forthcoming dates • next Parish Council meeting - Tuesday 13 April, 7 pm.

• Annual Parish Meeting - Tuesday 13 April, 7.30 pm.

Great Somerford Parish Council The Parish Council met 3 March. All nine Councillors were present plus Wiltshire Cllr Sturgis and 7 members of the public. Below is an extract of the minutes. The full set is on the village noticeboards & the Parish Council website: https:// w w w. g r e a t s o m e r f o r d p a r i s h c o u n c i l . c o . u k / meetings/.

Best Kept Village Competition Cllr Cole is submitting the entry for the Best Kept Village. Posters will be displayed outside the Shop.

Residents are encouraged to keep the area adjacent to their homes clear of litter. Judging takes place between 17 May and 13 June.

Broadfield Farm Housing Development By the time this issue appears the landscaping and replanting along the boundary hedge with the Free Gardens should have taken place. It is scheduled for March.

Community Room This remains closed until further notice.

Finance The Parish Council passed its 2021/22 budget with a Precept of £11,350 with no increase to local Council Tax for the Parish Share, general revenue expenditure as normal and £17,285 capital spend on a climbing frame and gazebo shelter for the Play Area plus £5,000 investment on footpath stiles and gates and monies to purchase two new large rubbish bins to replace the overfilled ones opposite the Church and in Hollow Street. The capital spend is funded variously by Play Area grants secured and CIL monies due from the new housing developments at Broadfield Farm and Brook Farm.

Governance – Annual Parish Meeting 5 May The majority of the CIL money is not scheduled to be spent in 2021/22 and the Parish Council plans to consult with residents at this year’s Annual Parish Meeting as to priorities for its use. The meeting will be held via Zoom and as many members of the village as possible are invited to attend. We are also inviting local village groups or clubs to make a (verbal) report on activities in 2020. If you belong to or lead one of these and would like report to the Parish as a whole please contact the Clerk by email (clerk.gspc@gmail.com) or phone (01249 890379) so that you can be included on the agenda.

Governance – Elections 6 May Cllr Cole informed the meeting that he will not be seeking re-election as a Parish Councillor. Having served since 1982 he will be greatly missed! This makes 3 of the existing 9 Councillors standing down.

All Councillors automatically retire 10 May and anybody standing for election or re-election must submit nomination papers with proposers and

seconders to the Returning Officer at Monkton Park, by 4 pm on 8 April. The new Council takes over on 10 May. Highway & Footpath Matters As the Parish Steward continues to fill in large potholes around the village thanks should be given to Cllr Cole who took it upon himself to shovel away quantities of mud deposited in the road along Winkins Lane as heavy vehicles keep mounting the verge. The Parish Council had received a complaint.

Removal of mud is the responsibility of the person or persons who deposited it or, failing that, Wiltshire Council which has a lack of funds for small, single track rural lanes. So it falls to residents either to tolerate the mud or to form a work party to remove it. If the Parish Council were to take on this responsibility it would undoubtedly affect the Precept.

Planning A busy meeting for planning application with 6 for the Parish Council to consider, all of which it supported.

• 20/10376/MODPO Brook Farm Modification of planning obligation to s106 agreements relating to 04/02024/OUT. • 21/00473/FUL 6 Paddock Close - Removal of oil fired boiler flue. Proposed Air Source Heat Pump or equivalent external to the bungalow. Proposed 2 x Velux Sun Tunnels or equivalent. Proposed detached outbuilding. Proposed replacement of existing single-glazed conservatory with double-glazed conservatory. Proposed creation of 1 additional car parking space by turning part of the front lawn over to hard-standing.

• 21/01070/FUL Beech Lodge - Single Storey Entrance Porch to Front Elevation.

• 21/01337/FUL The Old Builders Yard, Heath Lane to junction at Clove House, Startley SN15 5HG - Change of use of buildings from B1, B2 & amp; B8 uses to C3 residential (2 units), demolishing substandard outbuildings.

• 21/01467/TCA Forge Cottage – Fell 25m leylandii hedge (T1); fell 19m leylandii hedge (T2); 30% crown reduc’n to 3 apple trees & 1 damson (T3).

• 21/02038/TCA The Mead – Fell 1 plum tree.

There was only one Wiltshire Council determination: 21/00074/TCA Longacre – Fell ash tree on neighbouring field due to excessive shading of house. No Objection.

Development in Wiltshire/Wiltshire’s Local Plan Wiltshire Cllr Sturgis reported that the Local Plan Review has generated significant public engagement via webinars and online submissions.

Signpost April 2021

19

Meanwhile Wiltshire Climate Alliance (WCA) has written to all Parish Councils asking for the consultation period to be extended. It is focussed on zero carbon and expresses grave concerns about over-development of rural Wiltshire with over 40,000 additional homes planned for 2016 – 2036.

Planning - the Right to Regenerate or Contest This consultation runs till 13 March and is assessing how the public feel about reform to the Right to Contest, which would encourage this Right to be utilised more effectively and more widely to stimulate regeneration and the more productive use of land. It would offer a quicker and easier route for individuals, businesses and organisations to identify purchase and redevelop underused or empty land in their area. The Parish Council has publicised the consultation via the PIE, Facebook and on its website. It has responded to say that it feels this legislation should not apply to small rural parishes with a Neighbourhood Plan in place.

Startley Matters The Parish Council continues to press Royal Mail to replace the stolen post box. Our MP, James Grey, sent in a second letter asking why the original “replace within 3 months of his last letter” deadline was missed.

Next Meetings: Wednesdays @ 7.30 pm The next scheduled meetings are 7 April, 5 May (APM), 19 May (APCM), 2 June & 7 July. Zoom logins will be provided on the agenda on the noticeboard until the Covid 19 situation is such that real meetings can resume in the Community Room at the School or elsewhere.

Little Somerford Parish Council The Parish Council met via Zoom on 2 March.

Planning The Parish Council has considered the following applications: 21/00273/FUL – Manor Cottage – extension – no comment Wiltshire Council has been running a Local Plan Consultation. The Local Plan review will set out a positive vision for the future of Wiltshire for the period to 2036 and a framework for addressing housing needs and other economic, social, and environmental priorities. Information can be found on the Wiltshire Council website: https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/planning-policylocal-plan-review Little Somerford Parish Council has responded to this consultation.

20

Signpost April 2021

Finance The Parish Council reviewed its receipts and payments and noted it’s bank balances.

Highways and Drainage issues Several issues have been reported to the Parish Council recently. The Councillors would like to encourage residents to use the MyWilts app, www.wiltshire.gov.uk/mywilts-online-reporting, to report any concerns to Wiltshire Council.

The Parish Council is pleased that flooding issues near Church Farm have been cleared by Wiltshire Council along with flooding near St Annes Cottage.

The Parish Council would like to remind all landowners of their responsibilities regarding drainage ditches – all ditches should be dug out regularly and kept clear of debris. Where a drainage ditch goes underground there should be a grill.

Thank you to all concerned.

Village Map The Parish Council has received a suggestion that we have a Village Map placed in a central location such as the bus shelter. This map will show the names and locations of all the properties in the village. The main aim of this is to aid the everincreasing number of delivery drivers; the Councillors would like to receive any feedback you may have on this subject – please contact the Clerk or speak to one of the Parish Councillors.

Litter The Parish Council is planning a spring litter pick as soon as restrictions allow. Look out for details on the Millennium Green. Many thanks to all who collect litter on their daily walks, helping to keep the village tidy.

Wildlife Friendly Village As part of this project the Parish Council is planning a Community Orchard on the derelict area of the allotments. If you are interested in getting involved with the Wildlife Friendly Village project, please contact the clerk.

Speeding Concerns Two of the Councillors recently attended a meeting on this for the Malmesbury area. Speeding is a problem in many villages. The Councillors would like to thank all members of the Speedwatch team for the valuable role they play in the Community. Data collected has helped inform on new police policy and as a result three new Police Safety Officers have been appointed to address the problem of speeding.

Play Park During the current lockdown, the Play Park is still open.

Telephone Book Exchange Thank you to everyone for helping to keep the Book Exchange tidy by only leaving books if there is room on the shelves.

The next Parish Council Meeting is on Tuesday 11 May.

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Please submit your advertisement by the 9th of the month preceding publication unless otherwise advertised. The Editorial Board neither endorses nor accepts responsibility for the services advertised in these pages.

For business advertisers small boxes are available at £3 and £6; ¼ page - £11; ½ page - £22.

Space for full colour advertisements is occasionally available on the back page. All cheques must be made payable to “Signpost”. To place an advertisement please ring Brenda Oliver on 01666 822342

Signpost April 2021

21

Roof Trusses

Floor Joists

Stairs

Car Ports

Woman Cave

Man

Garden Buildings more details

Caves

See our website for

Feature Trusses

www.stoneleightimber.co.uk

Contact us for a quote sales@stoneleightimber.co.uk 01380 871 533 E-mail:

Telephone :-

Tom Beeby Garden Maintenance Local, Reliable, Affordable Garden Clearance, Hedge Trimming, Mowing Pruning, Felling Small Trees Qualified Tree Surgeon tomlukebeeby@aol.com 07757302591

22

Signpost April 2021

Local independent financial advice you can trust.

Our services include; · Retirement Planning · Investment Advice · Family Protection, Life Assurance · Inheritance Tax Planning Please contact us for a FREE initial meeting Telephone: 01249 720 462, Email: enquiries@integritypi.co.uk www.integritypi.co.uk Unit 3, Gate Farm, Sutton Benger, Wilts SN15 4RE

CONNECT COMPUTER SERVICES Based locally. We provide an efficient, honest and friendly service in the comfort of your own home / place of work

Please call Kate on 07793 671089 or support@connectcomputers.co.uk no fix / no fee and free quotations ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT TREE SURGEONS Lopping, shaping, felling, topping, crown reduction, pruning of all types of trees, hedges and shrubs taken care of.

Conifers a speciality.

Regular contracts undertaken Fully insured FREE estimates without obligation Call: Barry Brown: 07922 881940 01793 853383 45 Downs View, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 8AZ

Paul Reeves P.R. Electrical Services

Your Local NICEIC Approved Electrician For all aspects of domestic electrical work including Inspection / Testing and Fault Finding.

Please contact Paul in Startley on 01249 720521 or 07860 298591 All calls receive our prompt and courteous attention.

Email: prconsultants100@hotmail.com

Signpost April 2021

23

At Chalkland vets you will find a warm and friendly environment where you and your pets will feel welcome.

Our Services include:Separate dog and cat waiting areas Separate dog and cat kennels Consultations Vaccinations and neuters Laparoscopic (keyhole) spays Radiography and ultrasound Laboratory services Dentistry Operations

Opening hours Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7pm Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm

01249 588805 41-42 New Road, Chippenham, SN15 1HL enquiries@chalklandvets.co.uk www.chalklandvets.co.uk

24

Signpost April 2021

· Unique stained glass windows and mirrors · Commissions made to your specification · Range of fused glass gifts and jewellery · External & internal windows can be supplied double glazed · Check-out the website for lots of ideas

www.worksofglass.co.uk 01249721617 – rtaylor@worksofglass.co.uk

STOVE & CHIMNEY LINING SERVICES

QUALIFIED HETAS ENGINEERS www.flus4u.co.uk Great Somerford, Wiltshire

Collier-Marsh Accountancy Chartered Accountants

Accountancy services Bookkeeping Management Information services Payroll Taxation services For Individuals, Sole Traders and Small Businesses Free initial consultation Sutton Benger Tel: 07583 437 689 / 01249 721525 Email: contact@colliermarshaccountancy.co.uk Web: www.colliermarshaccountancy.co.uk

07885 464137 FREE QUOTATION

Gentle Foot Care In the comfort of your own home ACER TREE SURGEONS ARBORICULTURAL ASSOCIATION APPROVED CONTRACTOR As your local Arborist, we are passionate about providing a bespoke service when looking after you and your trees.

Services include: • Tree Removals, Dismantles and Felling • Crown Reductions, Re-Shaping and Pruning • Hedge Cutting • Management of Dangerous Trees • Stump Grinding and Removal • Free Quotations and Tree Health Check Please contact us for free help and advice regarding your trees.

Adam Roberts M. Arbor. A, FdSc Arb ND Arb Tel: 01666718078 / 07843082634 Email: adamroberts@acertreesurgeons.co.uk

Heather Joanna Baker S.A.CDipFHPA S.A.CDipFHPAT Nail Cutting – Filing – Thick Nail Reduction Removal of Callus (Hard Skin) & Corns ….

For all enquiries please contact

07580 089906 Email – heatherjoannabaker@hotmail.co.uk Registered Foot Health Practitioner serving the community of Sutton Benger and the surrounding villages.

Signpost April 2021

25

26

Signpost April 2021

DO YOU HAVE A MOLE PROBLEM? With over 30 yearsʼ experience in traditional mole control I can effectively, discreetly and humanely remove the culprit(s)!

No gas, chemicals or poisons used and completely safe to children and pets.

NO MOLE – NO FEE Rabbit control also undertaken Fully insured and references available Member of the British Mole Catchers Register BPCA/RSPH level 2 certificate in pest control.

Call Charlie now for a free, no obligation site survey and quote 07766 132 934 (Day) 01666 890 344 (Evening)

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER "Let me come to you!"

Please call Nicky Ross on 01249 720738 Mob: 07841 330880 for an appointment NEED A NEW BATHROOM? PLUMBING & HEATING BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS, WATER SOFTENERS SALES/INSTALLATIONS CALL: PETE HUTCHINS

01249 720345

07760 307151

Signpost April 2021

27

RICHARD PONTING PROFESSIONAL FLOOR AND WALL TILING All types of natural stone tiles, slate, travertine, flagstones, terracotta, ceramics Sheet vinyl (inc. Karndean), carpet tiles SUPPLY AS WELL AS FIT Tel: 01249 721229 07966297790

AMHERST Digger Hire (1-7ton) with Operator Ditches & all other Excavations Earth Moving Services Fully Licensed, Qualified & Insured Local Authority Approved Professional Tree Surgeons Tree Surveys & Reports Tree Felling Pruning & Planting Height Reduction Hedge & Flail Cutting Site Clearance Estate Management Grounds Maintenance Free no obligation quotations A Family Run Business with over 25 years Experience

01793 772268 / 07921 856089 amherstcontractor@hotmail.co.uk

Foxley Plumbing & Heating Oil Boiler Installation, Servicing And Repairs Oil Tank Replacement Heating Installation And Repairs Bathroom Installations Unvented Cylinder Systems No Job Too Small

Tim Hibbard Email

28

Malmesbury (01666) 822863 Mobile 07966 462202 foxleyph@btinternet.com

Signpost April 2021

• Small and medium sized business specialists • Cloud accounting specialists • Free initial meeting & fixed fees available • Free fact sheets and monthly e-news (see our website)

Unit 1 Gate Farm High Street Sutton Benger WiltshireSN15 4RE

Tel: 01249 720341 Fax: 01249 470560 info@bowenaccounts.co.uk www.bowenaccounts.co.uk

We offer: Nursing Residential Respite Day Care Adrian Cizmas Home Manager

Set in beautiful gardens overlooking the the Vale of Dauntsey, with large ensuite wet rooms, hair salon and residents coffee shop.

Whether you are looking for nursing, residential, respite or day care, we recommend a visit to our home to see for yourself what makes us so special.

Tel 01666 822363 Hill House Care Home Little Somerford Nr Malmesbury SN15 5BH hillhousemanager@gmail.com

Signpost April 2021

29

www.cowley-electrical.com Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job?

* Extra Lights * Additional Sockets * Rewires * Smoke Alarms * New Fuse Boards * Landlord & Homebuyer Inspections Fault finding & Repairs - - -- - -- -- - -- -- - -- - - -- -- - -- - -- -- - -- -- - - -- - -

* Qualified Electrician * Six Year Guarantee * Fully Insured * Reliable Service * Free Quote * Tidy Work *Reasonably Priced

Satisfaction Guaranteed - - -- - -- -- - -- -- - -- - - -- -- - -- - -- -- - -- -- - - -- - -

I will assure you of a quick response and a reasonably priced service Call Neil – Your Local Electrician on

01666510976 30

Signpost April 2021

Single Ply Flat Roofing Specialist

✔ Firestone EPDM Rubber Roofing Systems ✔ 20 Year Guarantee ✔ Highly resistant to ozone and UV ✔ Flame-free installation ✔ Large seam free sheets ✔ Maintenance free ✔ New build or refurbishment ✔ Firestone Approved Installer

CABINET-MAKER/HOME IMPROVEMENT Storage solutions, bespoke wardrobes/cupboards, shelving/ bookcases: or call to discuss your own design. Free quotations....

Call Rob Griffiths 01249 720309

KEN SHEARING DECORATING Internal and External Painting

Tel: 01666 837589 Mob: 07768 277980 Email: info@twsroofing.co.uk Website: www.twsroofing.co.uk

E B BOILER SERVICES • Oil boiler installation • Servicing, breakdown/repair

● Coving ● Plastering / repairs ● Spray painting ● Window repairs ● Free estimates / quotes ● No VAT charged Over 25 years experience

For a reliable professional service Tel 01666 823999

TILLER GARDEN & LANDSCAPE SERVICES TIM MORRIS Established 2004 City & Guilds Qualified horticulturalist

Erik Beckwith Great Somerford – 01249 721564 Mobile – 07952493160 Email – beck66@btinternet.com

M.Vincent Windows & Glazing For all your glazing needs Wiltshire & Gloucestershire areas Fast, friendly and efficient service Available at your convenience 7 days a week CALL FOR YOUR FREE QUOTATION

07890 138453 / 01666 460106

michaelv5329@aol.com www.mvincentwindows.co.uk

Mobile: 07818 072273 Email:tim.morris822@hotmail.com ❖ Full seasonal garden maintenance ❖ Raised beds, wooden sleeper projects and gazebos Border renovations ❖ ❖ Garden planning and consultation

Plumbing repairs and installation Do you need C H ...

Central Heating?

Cold / Hot Water?

Then you need Colin Hope A local plumber, based in Yatton Keynell Call Him now!

01249 783193 or 07896 099672 Signpost April 2021

31

32

Signpost April 2021

Church Information Church Services for April 2021 You will appreciate in these uncertain times that it is difficult to plan ahead and so we advise you to check the relevant websites or to contact Churchwardens whose details are on the back page of Signpost.

Great and Little Somerford - www.woodbridgegroup.co.uk. Please check the website or with the Churchwardens for confirmation of these possible services.

4 April 4 April 18 April 25 April

Great Somerford Little Somerford Great Somerford Little Somerford

Easter Day Easter Day Easter 3 Easter 4

9.30 am Holy Communion 11.00 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Morning Prayer 11.00 am Morning Prayer

Seagry: www.draycot.weebly.com 1 April 2 April 4 April 11 April 18 April 25 April

Maundy Thursday Good Friday Easter Day Easter 2 Easter 3 Easter 4

7.30 pm Reflection: 2.00 pm Meditation at the Foot of the Cross: 10.30 am Holy Communion BCP: 2-3 pm Private Prayer 10.30 am United Benefice service: 2-3 pm Private Prayer

Zoom Eventbrite Reserve a place Zoom

To be added to the list for zoom services please contact Rev Mark Siddall on 01249 652752 drmarksid@gmail.com. To reserve a place for Good Friday please book on the website via Eventbrite and for Easter day please reserve a place on Eventbrite or by contacting the Churchwardens Eleanor or Jo so they can monitor numbers attending.

Corston & Rodbourne Live services suspended at present Online services from Malmesbury Abbey are available from www.malmesuryabbey.com, click ‘Services’ option.

Pastoral need: contact 07425 527312 Personal prayer request: prayers @malmesbury abbey.com Private prayer available in Malmesbury Abbey Wednesday & Saturday 10 -12 noon.

To arrange a time for prayer in Rodbourne Church contact 07966 927296.

Methodist Churches: www.northwiltsmethodistcircuit.org.uk Following the current Government lockdown due to COVID19 the churches of the North Wiltshire Methodist Circuit are closed for congregational worship. When these details were put together plans were still unknown. Most churches have in place Worship at Home sheets, streamed or Zoom type services or videos on YouTube. Please check out their websites for current information.

Signpost April 2021

33

Contacts Allotment Gardens Great Somerford .......................................... 01249 720204 Little Somerford .......................................... 01666 823799 Seagry ........................................................... 01249 721046 Somerfords’ Art Circle ............................... 01666 824306 .................................................................... 01666 823799 Astronomy - Somerford Gazers ................. 07711 972300 Bell ringing................................................... 01249 721127 Churches Malmesbury Abbey Office.......................... 01666 826666 Woodbridge Group Office (Maggie) .......... 01666 511422 Rector, Rev Steve Wilkinson ..................... 01249 723733 Curate, Rev Mike Graham ......................... 01666 510441 Lay Ministers Debra Evans ................................................. 01666 511158 Tony Yates...................................................... 01249 723842 Jane Briggs..................................................... 01666 825996 Churchwardens Corston & Rodbourne (Angela) ................ 01666 822916 Corston & Rodbourne (Susannah) ........... 01666 822103 Gt Somerford (Anna Kent) ........................ 01666 510515 Lt Somerford (Robert Gawthropp) ........... 01666 510339 Curate in Charge (Draycot Benefice) -Revd. Dr Mark Siddall ............................................................ 01249 652752 Seagry ........................................................... 01249 720683 Seagry ........................................................... 01249 720429 Draycot Admin (Maggie-Tues. Only) ....... 01666 511357 Great Somerford Methodist ....................... 01249 720687 Roman Catholic (Malmesbury) ................. 01666 822331 Café Church ................................................. 01249 721398 Coffee Pots .................................................... 07845 156184 Councils Parish Councils (Clerks) Great Somerford .......................................... 01249 890379 Little Somerford .......................................... 01249 720978 Corston and Rodbourne ............................. 07533 879433 Seagry (Viv Vines) ...................................... 01249 890759 Wiltshire Council ......................................... 0300 4560100 Dentists ....................................................... 0845 758 1926 Doctors Malmesbury Health Centre ....................... 01666 825825 Out of hours ................................................. 0300 1115717 Embroiderers' Guild .................................. 01249 721373 Fishing Somerfords Fishing Assn ............ 01666 823799 Gardening Club (Diane Beverley) .......... 01666 824182 Girl Guides ................................................. 01666 825647 Library - Malmesbury ............................... 01666 823611 Library - Chippenham ............................... 01249 650536 Neighbourhood Watch Little Somerford ......................................... 07711 972300 Great Somerford ......................................... 01249 723754 Seagry .......................................................... 01249 720429 Corston ........................................................ 01666 822691 Rodbourne.................................................... 01666 829445 Startley .......................................................... 01249 720521 Parent & Toddler group ........................... 01666 824951 Police Non-emergency Number ............................................ 101 Wiltshire Police (Alternative No.) ............ 01380 735735

Post Office .................................................... 01249 721272 Pubs The Volunteer Inn (GS) ...............................01249 720316 Little Somerford Arms ............................... 01666 826535 The New Inn (Seagry)................................... 01249 721083 Radnor Arms (Corston)............................... 01666 823389 Recycling (Hills) ......................................... 0845 6032085 Refuse (Wiltshire Council) ........................ 0300 4560100 Seagry & Startley Recreation Ground Trust Upper Seagry (Adele Carnegie) ................ 07769 905701 Startley (Jayne Tinslay) .............................. 01249 721082 Shop Fourways Stores, (GS)....................... 01249 721272 Schools Somerfords' Walter Powell ........................ 01249 720797 Somerfords' WP Pre-School ....................... 07931 263909 Seagry School................................................ 01249 720213 Seagry Pre-school......................................... 07773 011321 Malmesbury School .................................... 01666 829700 Scouts, Cubs and Beavers ......................... 01666 822651 Sports Centres Activity Zone Malmesbury ......................... 01666 822533 Olympiad Chippenham ............................. 01249 444144 Lime Kiln Wootton Bassett ........................ 01793 852197 Talking Newspapers ..................................01249 659305 Transport Buses AD Rains ........................................... 01666 510874 Coach hire A James Quality travel ........... 01666 825655 Coach Hire Coachstyle ............................... 01249 782224 Coachstyle Buses ......................................... 01666 510874 National Coaches ........................................ 0870 5808080 Bradies ........................................................... 01249 890794 Taxi AST Ltd .................................................01666 823388 Taxi Abbey Taxis .......................................... 01666 826072 Taxi Webb Taxis ........................................... 01666 823551 Taxi Andycab ................................................01666 826525 National Rail Enquiries .............................. 0845 7484950 Driving Miss Daisy ..................................... 07458 012460 Malmesbury & District Link ...................... 01666 840861 Village Halls Little Somerford .......................................... 01249 720978 Goss Croft Community Hall ..................... 07779 717663 GS Community room ................................. 01249 720204 GS School Hall ............................................. 01249 720797 Corston/Rodbourne ................................... 01666 824377 Women’s Institute Little Somerford .......................................... 01666 510490 Woodside ...................................................... 01249 720765 Emergencies Highways & street care ............................. 0300 456 0105 Electricity ...................................................... 08000 727282 Floodline........................................................ 0845 6026340 Pollution Hotline .......................................... 0800 807 060 Wessex Water ............................................... 0845 6004600 Hospitals: Chippenham ............................. 01249 447100 NHS Direct ......................................................... 0845 4647 Dental Emergency (NHS) ........................................... 111 Vets George .................................................. 01666 823165 Vets Chalkland ............................................ 01249 588805

To add or amend your contact details please call Jackie Vale on 01249 721208

34

Signpost April 2021

“A bee is never as busy as it seems; it's just that it can't buzz any slower.” Kin Hubbard