HEY! Magazine Frome and West Wilts edition

FREE • FROME AND WEST WILTS EDITION • ISSUE 44 • DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Read more at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

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WELCOME Director Tina Veater 07834 542955 | tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk Editorial Team Tina Veater info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Advertising Team Zoe Jenkins Theresa Saadeh Jane Groves 01761 410141 | info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Graphic Designer Pamela Evans Published by Ignyte Media Ltd Printed by Flying Colours Ltd, Weare, Somerset Business Address: Ignyte Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH 01761 410141 info@ignyte-uk.co.uk While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in the publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Ignyte do not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All right reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

Distribution: We deliver to 9500 families through primary schools and other outlets in Frome and West Wiltshire and surrounding villages.

The next edition is our February 2018 issue & is filling fast.

It’s getting closer to Christmas with each frosty morning, and everyone at HEY! headquarters are all prepared for the festive fun.

This time of the year can be stressful with money worries, family ties and just trying to find five minutes of peace and quiet for yourself. Take a look at our article on ways to help you keep your Christmas cool and also ways to be money-wise this Christmas.

We have featured Twas the Night before Christmas in this issue, and I would thoroughly recommend you take ten minutes out of your evening and read this most magical poem to your children. This innocent time will soon fly by, so try and make as many Christmas memories as you can.

With that being said, make sure you also see our guide to Santas grottos this year. A workshop of elves and Santa in his large chair granting Christmas wishes, will put a smile on your childs face until Christmas Day…… hopefully!

Winter is always a time when bugs and germs are on a rampage. Central heating and lack of fresh air create breeding grounds for these horrid bugs.

The NHS have created a great app called Handi App to help identify illnesses and what you should do. Read our article on why antibiotics are being prescribed less frequently.

Winter also sees the return of the RSPB Schools Birdwatch, so make sure you check out their website to see how you can register and get involved. As well as a survey for schools, there is also a version that you can do in your own garden - the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the children.

Whatever your plans for this festive season, everyone at HEY! and Family Matters would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tina Hey Magazine

@hey_tweeter

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

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BE MONEY-WISE THIS CHRISTMAS L

et’s face it, Christmas can be very tough on your bank balance and we can all be tempted to rely on our credit cards to help see us through the festive season. However, interest can quickly escalate if we are not prompt in paying back the money, which can leave many of us in mountains of debt.

If you are concerned about your finances this Christmas, you are not alone. According to research by supermarket chain ASDA last year, one in six parents were not sure how they’d be paying for Christmas.

Credit cards can provide handy access to credit when needed, though they should always be used responsibly, in order to avoid running into difficulties.

With recent research from the British Bankers’ Association revealing that the nation’s average monthly credit card spending reached £7.1 billion, Asda Money offers tips on how consumers can use their credit cards responsibly this Christmas.

1. MAKE PAYMENTS ON TIME

In order to avoid penalties and keep your credit card charges down you should ensure that you make at least the minimum payment due each month. Setting up a Direct Debit to cover either the minimum payment or the full amount can help make sure you never forget to pay. Credit card companies may charge you more interest if you only make the minimum payments.

2. MAKE USE OF INTEREST FREE PERIODS At Christmas having the option to spread your payments out over several weeks or months can really help. Most cards have interest

free periods for purchases. This means that, as long as you pay your balance in full by the due date each month, you shouldn’t be charged any interest.

3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CARD FOR YOU

There are many cards on the market and there are also many reasons for people to choose a particular credit card. Some are tempted by reward schemes or cash-back but if you tend to have a balance outstanding at the end of each month, a card with a lower interest rate might be the best option. The best card for you will depend on your spending habits and preferences.

4. CONSIDER A BALANCE TRANSFER

Most credit cards allow you to transfer an existing balance from another card, often at preferential interest rates which may be as low as zero per cent for a given period. There is usually a fee to pay but you may still be able to save money in the long run. Any balance transfer not paid in full at the end of the promotional period will be charged the normal balance transfer rate which may be fairly high.

5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CASH BACK OFFERS

Some credit cards will offer cash back on your purchases, helping you earn as you spend. Depending on the provider cash back can apply to all your spending, or be limited to specific stores or items.

Check the details of each offer carefully to be sure you are getting the right deal for you.

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CHILDREN’S WORLD CHARITY

G

lastonbury based charity Children’s World has been providing workshops and events for children of all abilities for over 35 years. Founded in 1981 by Arabella Churchill, granddaughter of Sir Winston Churchill, the charity ran it’s first tour for children with special needs throughout Somerset and Avon after raising money at Glastonbury Festival.

Since then, the charity has provided thousands of sessions for local children which generated interest from schools further afield and led their specialised work to be sought after across the UK. They are one of only a few groups who provide sensory sessions for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties, as well as unique workshop weeks that promote positive integration of children of all abilities. Their mainstream school workshops cover the social and emotional aspects of school life, including bullying and transition from primary to secondary education. In the community Children’s World produced the popular Glastonbury Children’s Festival for over 30 years before establishing the annual ‘Off the Streets’ week of workshops and events for local children and young people.

In 1999, Children’s World was approached by WarChild to provide workshops and activities for refugees from the Balkan conflict. This led to the creation of the international arm of the charity that still provides programs for children and families affected by conflict, natural or man made disaster, where needed across the world. They have worked with various NGO’s in many

countries including Sumatra, Rwanda, Uganda and India as well more recently providing entertainment and activities for refugee children in the Calais and Dunkirk camps in France.

In 2007 founder and director Arabella sadly passed away, but left her charity in a good position to carry on it’s valuable work.

Ten years further on and Children’s World is still providing workshops for children of all abilities, both in schools and in the local community - and although the children’s festival is no longer around, the charity continues to produce the ‘Off the Streets’ week of subsidised workshops and events for the young people of Glastonbury and surrounding area, and new for next year - Off the Streets will close with a fantastic Family Festival Weekend in partnership with Paddington Farm!

Children’s World only survives through the help of an army of volunteers who work to keep the charity afloat. Most of its funding is raised through running the Children’s World and Green Room Cafes and the Green Room Bar at Glastonbury Festival’s Theatre and Circus areas. The people that staff these outlets are all volunteers and they work incredibly hard to get their ticket. The charity could not survive without their hard work and generosity.

The charity also uses volunteers to help run the Glastonbury Zombie Walk and the Off the Streets week.

2018 is going to be a particularly challenging year for the charity as it’s main source of fundraising, Glastonbury Festival, is taking a

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year off. They are already working hard to help plug the financial gap. There will be a charity auction at the Swan Hotel in Wells and one regular volunteer will be running a marathon to raise funds!

There is also a bands night planned in Glastonbury for early next year. Please do come along and support them where you can.

Other fundraising help and ideas will be greatly appreciated too!

Anyone wanting to volunteer for Children’s World should get in touch. They are contactable through their web site, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Or you can visit their office at 28 Northload Street or give them a call on 01458 833693. If you would like to support the charity financially by fundraising

Experience a cosy Christmas yearto at Add somethis colour Lacock Abbey this your weekend Traditional carols, autumnVictorian at Gibside

willow reindeer, and our annual community Christmas tree festival crunching through fallen leaveswill and discover a forest inGo the abbey cloister be sure teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities. to add sparkle to your December. nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01249 730459 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

helps usTrust to look 2017. after special ©support National Theplaces <in the region> <like property X, Trust propertyis Y and Z> in for ever, for everyone.

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or donating you can give online via their web site: www. childrensworldcharity.org or get in touch.

As well as their web site you can keep up to date with the ongoing work of the charity by following them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Off the Streets and the Glastonbury Zombie Walk also have their own social media.

The Children’s World team would like to thank their local community for all their fantastic support over so many years and look forward to working with them into the future, ‘using drama, performance and FUN to support children of all abilities’!

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BELIEVING IN FATHER CHRISTMAS

W

hen it comes to imagination and pretend play, nothing sparks imagination like a workshop of elves, a magical sleigh, and the distant sound of reindeer hooves on a roof. To this day, I remember lying in bed — wound up with anticipation. I remember willing myself to hear sleigh bells and a gentle clickclack above my head.

See through AddChristmas some colour to the at Avebury yourages weekend this 23 November to 31 December

autumn at Gibside

Experience traditional Christmas decorations, delicious festive foods, unique gift ideas and 'Music, lights and merriment'.

Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest

Avebury has something truly special for the teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities. whole family this holiday season.

Call 01672 539250 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury When you visit, donate, volunteer join the When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the or National Trust,National your support your helps us to look after special <in after the region> <like Trust, support helps us places to look special propertySuch X, property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. places as Avebury for ever, for everyone. © National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent registered charity, number 205846. registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Abby Images.

George.

#nationaltrust #nationaltrust

It is important for children to have a sense of something bigger — a community, a universe, an omnipresent presence. Santa Claus gives children a reason to look up in the sky and feel something bigger than themselves.

Father Christmas teaches children how to believe in something they can't see or touch. Throughout their life, children will need this capacity to believe: in themself, in friends and in family.

Father Christmas represents love and magic and hope and happiness.

The childhood memories of Santa will last your child a life time.

That feeling? That childlike wonder? It's still inside most of us even now. You don't recognize it from what it is, you recognize it in how it feels — and how you remember it feeling as a believer.

This innocent era of childhood flies by faster than you will remember it happening to yourself, and so you have to ask: What's the harm in giving them this one brief moment of magic? The elves, the reindeer, the sleigh. Why not cling to the magic while it's still here? For children and for yourself!

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KEEP YOUR CHRISTMAS COOL The 25th December is loaded with expectation and trying to measure up to those expectations can be tough. According to the mental health charity MIND, one in five of us feels seriously stressed during the festive season, while the Samaritans expect an additional 100,000 calls during the holiday period.

Much of the pressure surrounding Christmas actually comes from within and there’s a lot you can do to reduce the stress you put yourself under. Before you start to feel your stress levels rise, consider these stress-busting suggestions…

PLAN

A

perfect Christmas. It’s what we see in the television adverts, it’s what we all want for our families.

The desired scene looks something like this: everyone grouped around the log burner/fireplace/gas fire, exchanging gifts (exquisitely wrapped) while looking forward to a wonderful roast followed by a jaw dropping selection of deserts and fine wines and sherries, and more goodies...

tmas is r h C at Glenda Spooner Farm Adopt Clippy for Christmas Bistro Christmas Lunches

Wednesday - Sunday from 1st - 22nd December

Christmas Gala Day Saturday 16th December - 11am - 4pm

Tickets available to purchase from the Visitor Centre before the day

We will be closed from Saturday 23rd December and reopen on Wednesday 3rd January

World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre Brincil Hill, Kingsdon, TA11 7LA t: +44 (0) 1935 841442

www.worldhorsewelfare.org Registered charity no: 206658 and SC038384

As is so often the case when it comes to stress, the key to keeping your Christmas cool is to make a plan. Getting stressed/losing your cool is usually a response to feeling out of control of any given situation. Creating a plan of action is one way of putting yourself firmly in the driving seat for the festive season.

Write out what you need to do in the run up to the Big Day, and, where possible, delegate some of these tasks. You might ask your family to help out with putting up Christmas decorations. When people offer to help, for example, by ‘bringing a dish’, say yes.

By writing out a plan, you’ll be able to better see where the opportunities lie for outsourcing some of your responsibilities.

Plus, if you are in danger of expecting too much of yourself – it’ll be all the clearer in a list. You may be planning to make everything from scratch, but once you see the list of all there is to do (cakes, pies, quiches, stuffing etc…), you might forgive yourself for buying in a bit more…

send you over the tipping point in a fragile social situation.

MONEY

PERFECTION

The tendency is to overspend at Christmas and feeling anxious about the amount of money flying out of your account can really mar your enjoyment of the festive period. Try and reassure yourself that you are not about to be measured by what you spend.

Yes, December will be a more costly month than most, especially footing the bill for gifts. But there is no need to buy more food and drink than you need. And it might be possible to cut the cost of present buying by agreeing with wider family and friends on a cap for spending. Create a budget that you can afford and stick to it.

FAMILY

Another pressure at Christmas time is the prospect of spending time with family members you may not normally see or even get on with. Add overly excitable kids into the mix, and it’s not hard to see why divorce lawyers count January to be their busiest month…

But you try and make sure that Christmas doesn’t become a memorable day for the wrong reasons.

If there have been family rows during the year, try and resolve them before the festive season. Use your plan for the day (as discussed above!) to involve others in things like cooking so you don’t feel like you’re slaving away in the kitchen while everyone else is relaxing.

It’s also worth thinking about how the day will pan out. Rather than sitting around for hours on end, perhaps after Christmas dinner you could go for a family walk, play a board game, or watch a good film. Avoid drowning your sorrows! Too much booze could

ACTIVITY

On the theme of the post-Christmas dinner walk, an excellent way to combat stress in the lead up to Christmas – as well as on the day – is to keep active. You may feel that the short winter days are a cue to hibernate indoors. But brisk walks, cycling or running will do wonders to help energise you.

Much as most people want the perfect day, it can be hard not to get caught up in the hype of Christmas and the wish to host a perfect family day. But perfection doesn’t necessarily equate to enjoyable. Above all, Christmas should really be about enjoying time out from the usual routine. Imperfections create some of the best memories about Christmas. The collection of odd sized chairs around a wobbly dining table, forgetting the sprouts in the microwave and someone opening the wrong present… It is all part of Christmas’ chaotic charm!

YOU

Christmas day can whizz by in a festive blur without you so much as pulling a cracker or tasting your turkey because you’re anxiously watching everyone else eating, wanting to make sure they have all that they need. But remember that it is your Christmas too. Make sure that you factor into your plan time to relax, play with the kids and generally enjoy your efforts.

CHARITY

Whether you are or are not Christian, it’s worth remembering the occasion of the festive season. This is a holiday that is all about love and giving. You and your family might take the attention off yourselves and give some time towards a charitable cause. If you are Christian, or just open minded, go along to a Christmas church service, you find that you enjoy connecting to the wider spiritual significance of the day.

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WHERE TO VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO A workshop of elves, a magical sleigh, and Father Christmas sat in his big chair. There is nothing more magical for children at this time of the year. So it’s good news we have listed a few places below where the jolly man himself will be making some stop-offs.

Santa's Grotto at Cholderton Charlies Farm

December 9th, 10th, 16th to 23rd 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm (max of 5 families per session) £8.50 per child In our Grotto & classrooms, kids can enjoy the following package: Private family visit to see Santa in his Grotto, each child receives a small wrapped gift from Santa. Tell Santa what you'd like for Christmas (parents can tell us 'good/naughty stories' of the children before visiting and names so Santa secretly knows before they come in who he is seeing!). Make Christmas decorations or decorate a Christmas cookie.

Meet Father Christmas in his secret folly at Hestercombe

December 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 23rd & 24th, from 10am £9 per child (includes all-day admission to Hestercombe) Book now to enjoy a magical experience where every child can speak to the man in red himself and receive their own special toy. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by one of our friendly Hestercombe elves, then you’ll wander through the wintertime gardens to meet Father Christmas. Make a day of it and enjoy our other Christmas events: glide around on our skate rink, follow our Get Ready Reindeers Trail, take part in wreath making workshops and enjoy a Christmas concert in the Bampfylde Hall.

Santa at the Station

December 10th and 17th Santa will be here at the station and all children who visit him will receive a present! Booking essential. Trains running.

Somerset & Dorset Railway, Silver Street.

Santa's Grotto at Puxton Park!

Open every weekend in December from 10 - 4pm December 19th - 23th from 10 - 4pm Christmas Eve from 10 - 2pm Puxton are inviting all visitors to enjoy the new "Cosy Cottage" and events room, free with admission price. Here, children will listen to Christmas stories from Father and Mrs. Claus, create beautiful christmas crafts and watch christmas films. For £5 your child can visit Father Christmas and receive a special christmas present from him.

Santa's Grotto at The Shires December 7th - 24th, Trowbridge

Santa Specials at the West Somerset Railway December 10th - 24th The Santa Special offers a shorter ride than the Santa Express. It travels between Bishops Lydeard and Crowcombe Heatfield or Minehead and Blue Anchor and its a return journey. Santa will be awaiting the children at his Grotto, where they will meet him and receive a special gift. For the adults, we serve a mince pie and a festive drink whilst you soak up the atmoshpere. All the trains have a buffet car.

Santa's Grotto at Radstock Co-operative December 6th - 22nd

Christmas at the Bishops Palace

December 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 23rd There will be a whole host of additional events taking place Father Christmas will be holding court in the Undercroft – there is no additional charge for this, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance - there will be Christmas music in the Chapel from a range of different local musicians, Scrooge will be reading from A Christmas Carol, mulled wine, mince pies and children’s drinks will be on sale and there will be special Family Christmas Craft sessions at intervals throughout the weekends.

So if you want that warm, festive feeling, just pull on your Christmas jumper and head down to the Palace this December!

Santa Steam Specials at Avon Valley Railway

During your hour-long trip you’ll enjoy the rolling Avon Valley countryside pass by as Santa’s helpers distribute mince pies and festive biscuits to everyone. Then, the moment comes when Father Christmas himself appears and spends a short time with each family and asks that all important question; "Have you been good this year?" He’ll then give each child a quality present designed especially for their age. Once the train reaches Avon Riverside there will be the opportunity (weather permitting) for photographs with Father Christmas on the platform before you finally return to Bitton. www.avonvalleyrailway.org

Farrington Farm magical Father Christmas Breakfast Experience December 2nd, 3rd, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd 8am – 10am, £12.50 per child Includes breakfast, home-made biscuit, 1 hour play in our Playbarn and a special gift.

To book call the Playbarn on 01761 452266 (Opt 3) or email playbarn@farringtons.co.uk for more information.

Why not take 10 minutes on Christmas Eve to sit with the children and read this traditional, well loved poem together.

Twas the Night before Christmas Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.

And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.

A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.

He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.

And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

PUZZLES Colour me i n !

Christmas Jokes Why did Santa's helper see the doctor?

Because he had a low "elf" esteem!

Who delivers presents to cats?

Santa Paws!

Who is Santa's favorite singer?

Elf-is Presley!

What do you call a three legged donkey?

A wonky donkey!

What do reindeer hang on their Christmas trees?

Horn-aments!

Who hides in the bakery at Christmas?

A mince spy!

What do Santa's little helpers learn at school?

The elf-abet!

Crossword Find the answers to the questions below and fill in the crossword.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 12

11 13

14 15

ACROSS 5. Red Christmas plant 6. Another name for Yule 7. ? and the Ivy, A Christmas carol 9. ? Express, a film starring Tom Hanks 10. The number of wise men 13. Where Jesus slept as a little baby 15. Small green vegetables you traditionally eat at Christmas DOWN 1. Santas helpers 2. Where Auld Lang Syne originates 3. You kiss under this 4. What is Frosty's nose made from?

6. ? pole. Where Father Christmas lives 8. Scrooges exclamation (3,6) 11. What you will find under the tree 12. The colour of Rudolf's nose 14. Christmas character written by Dr. Seuss

ANTIBIOTICS

GIVING CHILDREN ANTIBIOTICS WHEN THEY DON’T NEED THEM PUTS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES AT RISK A

ntibiotics are essential to treat serious bacterial infections, such as meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis, but they are frequently being used to treat illnesses, such as coughs, earache and sore throats that can get better by themselves.

To help parents understand more about the most common infections, how they can be treated and if they need antibiotics, Musgrove Park Hospital has developed the Handi app in 2015 (which is free to download from the App Store and Google Play).

It’s aimed at parents, but it also gives advice to health professionals on a range of conditions, from diarrhoea and vomiting, to chestiness and newborn problems.

After selecting one of the conditions, the app takes you through a series of questions to understand your symptoms. The app either gives self-care advice or recommends seeing a GP or other healthcare professional if appropriate.

It has been adopted by eight healthcare trusts in the region, with another three lined up and has been used more than 64,000 times.

Sarah Bridges, and Amy Whiting, consultant paediatricians at Musgrove developed the app to empower parents to provide information about common childhood illnesses in an easily accessible form.

Sarah said: “We know taking antibiotics encourages harmful bacteria that live inside you to become resistant. That means that antibiotics may not work when you really need them.

“It is estimated that at least 5,000 deaths are caused every year in England because antibiotics no longer work for some infections and this figure is set to rise with experts predicting that in just over 30 years antibiotic resistance will kill more people than cancer and diabetes combined.

“The Handi Paediatric app provides self-care advice to help

families manage their children’s symptoms.

“We know it can be a difficult decision for parents whether or not to take their children to A&E, and unfortunately they often end up there as they aren’t sure what else to do.

“We hope the HANDi paediatric app gives them more confidence in dealing with the more minor conditions themselves at home.”

“Families are also able to see the GP and hospital guidelines for more particular symptoms.”

Parents should always trust their doctor, nurse or pharmacist’s advice as to when they need antibiotics and if they are prescribed, take antibiotics as directed and never save them for later use or share them with others.

Chaam Klinger, Consultant for Public Health England said: “As a parent, I know how difficult it is when a child is ill and you will pretty much do anything to try and help them. It can be very tempting to go to the GP and ask for antibiotics. However, I would urge parents to think twice as the long term consqeunces of using antibiotics for viral infections such as colds, sore throats and ear infections could be devasting.

“We want to make sure that we all help keep antibiotics working for serious infections such as sepsis, meningitis and pneumonia.

“There are some great resources in the region for parents to use to help understand a bit more about when antibiotics should be used. We are not asking parents to stop taking children to the GP for expert advice but we want to ask them to trust the GPs advice as home care and over the counter remedies may be the right treatment.

“Pharmacists, NHS choices website and 111 are also other great places to look up common aliments.”

THE RETURN OF THE POOCH: THE GRAND APPEAL REVEALS 2018 ARTS TRAIL CHARACTERS

B

ristol Children’s Hospital charity Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal has unveiled the highly anticipated secret of which iconic Aardman character will take to the streets of Bristol. In its third major arts trail with the Academy Award®-winning animation studio, not one, but three sculptures will be appearing in the 2018 event.

Returning to Bristol for his second starring role in the charity's 2018 sculpture trail is Nick Park's much loved character Gromit, but this time he's not alone... The loveable canine will be joined by his pal Wallace and arch nemesis Feathers McGraw!

The criminal mastermind penguin is on the loose again and the dynamic duo is out to track him down! Gromit is raring to go, but Wallace can’t resist having a nice sit down to soak up the scenery, and enjoy a lovely cup of tea at every opportunity.

From Monday 2nd July until Sunday 2nd September 2018, over 60 sculptures will descend on Bristol and will raise money for Bristol Children's Hospital and the Special Care Baby Unit at St Michael's Hospital.

The award-winning charity has raised over £50 million to save lives and support sick children and their families at Bristol Children’s Hospital since 1995. Funds raised have helped, and are helping, patients and their families in the hospital to have access to the best medical care, pioneering equipment, expert doctors and nurses, family accommodation and patient activities.

Not only will this be the first sculpture trail in the world to feature three licensed characters, a number of Bristol's leading institutions, pioneering technology companies and international engineering firms will bring their renowned expertise to make this the most innovative sculpture trail yet.

Known as 'Trailblazers', Creditcall, Renishaw, Rolls-Royce and the

University of Bristol will play a significant role in the 2018 trail.

Wallace & Gromit creator Nick Park and Aardman founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton added: “It’s been nearly a quarter of a century since we brought Wallace, Gromit and Feathers together in The Wrong Trousers, and we’re delighted that they’ll be together once again in our home city of Bristol.

“The Grand Appeal trails have raised an incredible amount of money for a cause that’s very close to all of our hearts here at Aardman. We can’t wait to see our beloved characters take the city by storm next summer, putting smiles on the faces of the many families and friends who adore these trails.”

The Grand Appeal is the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity.

The award-winning charity has raised over £50 million to save lives and support sick children and their families at Bristol Children’s Hospital since 1995.

The funds we raise has helped and is helping, patients and their families in the hospital to have access to the best medical care, pioneering equipment, expert doctors and nurses, family accommodation and patient activities possible.

Bristol children’s hospital is one of the UK’s leading children’s hospitals treating over 100,000 patients every year from Bristol, the South West of England, and South Wales and beyond. The hospital is an international, national and regional specialist centre of excellence for a range of services including neurosurgery, burns, cardiac, leukaemia and bone marrow transplants.

The charity pioneered character-led sculpture trails to international acclaim with Gromit Unleashed and Shaun in the City and runs a truly unique charity shop and online retail store at www.wallaceandgromitcharityshop.org.uk.

For more information visit www.grandappeal.org.uk.

RSPB BIG SCHOOLS’ BIRDWATCH 2018

S

chool children across the UK will be setting up bird feeders, turning classrooms into bird hides and excitedly getting into position, to watch and count the birds in their school grounds for the 2018 RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch.

The survey, which takes place during the first half of spring term (2 January – 23 February), is the biggest wildlife survey in schools.

Children are asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in their outdoor space, then send their results to the RSPB. 73,000 school children and teachers took part in the birdwatch in 2017 counting more than 100,000 birds. Now in its 16th year, the survey helps to track numbers of birds in school grounds, providing an insight into which species are doing well or not so well and brings children closer to nature.

The blackbird remained the most common playground visitor for the ninth year in succession with over 88% schools spotting at least one. The top three was rounded off by starling and woodpigeon.

Rebecca Kerfoot, RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch Co-ordinator said: “Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a fun and educational activity and is free to every school in the UK. It’s flexible enough to fit into a lesson or during lunchtime and links well to the curriculum or project work. It also provides valuable information on how some of our familiar birds are doing.

“It also gives children an opportunity to get outside, experience and learn about the nature local to them. The decline in children’s access to nature in the last three generations is well evidenced.

And yet research shows that when children are connected to nature it has a positive impact on their education, physical health, emotional wellbeing, and their personal and social skills.”

The Birdwatch takes just one hour and teachers can pick any day during the first half of spring term to take part. It works across a wide age and ability range and there's plenty of flexibility to run it as simply as teachers would like either as the centrepiece of cross-curricular studies, project work, or a way to improve their outdoor space.

Many schools prepare for the event in advance by taking measures to give nature a home in their school grounds, such as putting up feeders and nestboxes and making bird cake. Seeing and counting the birds coming to their feeders during the Big Schools Birdwatch is the perfect reward for their efforts.

Since its launch in 2002, more than 70 different species have been recorded in school grounds, ranging from starlings and house sparrows, to red kites and green woodpeckers.

The Big Schools' Birdwatch is the school version of the Big Garden Birdwatch – the world's biggest garden wildlife survey. The event will take place over three days on 27, 28 and 29 January 2018 and further information can be found on the RSPB website rspb.org. uk/birdwatch Big Schools’ Birdwatch and Big Garden Birdwatch are part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The RSPB is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in school grounds, their own garden or outside spaces – whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a home for hedgehogs [note 3] From 23 October 2017 you can register to take part in the 2018 RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch at rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch Everything schools need to take part is available to download from the RSPB website.

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What’s On

December 8 - January 1

Christmas cheer at Avebury Escape the bleak mid-winter and find Christmas warmth and cheer at Avebury. The whole site will be decorated for Christmas so step into one of the hot-spots and enjoy some festive cheer. Manor open to visitors Thurs-Sun only. Brave a walk around the Henge and stone circles to admire the stark landscape at this bleak time of the year.

Then head to the Manor to see the beautiful Christmas decorations or relax in a cosy armchair. Be tempted by the warming dishes and Christmas aromas of the café or delve into the National Trust shop and begin your Christmas shopping with the superb range of gift ideas. Manor open to the public Thurs-Sun only.

December 8 - January 1

Join in the festive fun at Lacock this Christmas Choose your favourite community-decorated Christmas tree in the Christmas tree festival in the abbey cloister, follow the fun family trail around the village and abbey grounds, see the Great Hall beautifully decorated, and have an audience with Father Christmas.

December 10

Crafts and Carols in the Corner Yard Join us for some special Christmas cheer at our enchanting Crafts and Carols event. Expect to find, mulled wine, mince pies, brass band and a chance to sing along to some of your favourite carols.

We've cherry picked a few amazing local artists and crafters for you to snap up those last minute presents or stocking fillers.

Chuffy the train will be revving up his engine for rides around the village. From 12 noon to 3pm. Everyone welcome. Free entry.

Ample parking. Newton Farm Foods, Somerset.

December 10

Frome Santa Dash Join us for some festive family fun at our first ever Frome Santa Dash in aid of We Hear You. Our 5km fun run is a great way for everyone to take on a festive challenge. Everyone who pre-registers will receive a free Santa suit. Those who register on the day will have the opportunity to purchase a Santa suit, but you may provide your own. Everyone will receive a Santa medal.

Children aged 5 years and under will be free, please note there will be no Santa suits for this age group. See more details at www.wehearyou.org.uk/events/frome-santa-dash-2017.

December 16 - 23

Breakfast with Santa at Cholderton Charlies Farm Between 9am and 10am in the Ewe Tree Cafe & Bar, the kids can enjoy the following package: Santa joins the children for their breakfast of choice (these will be pre-ordered), each child receives a small wrapped gift from Santa, tell Santa what you'd like for Christmas and much more. General admission to the farm is not included, this is a supervised activity and parents can

accommodate their children free of charge. There will also be adult breakfasts and drinks available to purchase from the café on the day.

December 16 & 23

The Christmas Family Party Start your Christmas off with 23 Bath St at our first edition of our free family Christmas Party! We’ll have bucket loads of activities to keep your little ones entertained including: A free Christmas Arts & Crafts table. Badge making. Dancing games with Toby Spin! Face painting from our favourite face painter Sarah at Bee Something Face painting! We’ll also have tonnes of toys, games, Lego, Duplo & everything fun in between! And for the grown-ups – Spiced Winter Pimms! (We’ll also have an alcohol-free Spiced Apple Juice for the kiddies). FREE ENTRY 12pm-4pm 23 Bath St. Frome.

January 1 - March 1

Spring flowers and family trail at Lacock Abbey Lacock's wooded grounds are full of wonderful flowers over the spring months, ideal for a gentle stroll. All spring there are lots of things to spot in the grounds, see how many you can spot on our fun family trail.

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CHILDREN’S HEALTHY LIFESTYLE PROGRAMME BEGINS IN JANUARY H

ealthy Me, Wiltshire Council’s free healthy lifestyle course for children and their families, starts in Trowbridge, Devizes, Salisbury and Chippenham leisure centres from 8 January 2018.

This fun-filled programme is the perfect opportunity to put new year’s resolutions into practice and help to get the whole family off to a healthy start in 2018.

The 10-week course for children aged seven to 11 and their families aims to build self-confidence and self-esteem, with sessions covering topics such as the importance of a balanced diet, being more active, label reading, and portion control; particularly sugar and fats.

As well as encouraging positive lifestyle changes, Healthy Me puts a huge emphasis on having fun and offers a mix of theory and practical elements, with opportunities to try a range of different activities, including taekwondo, scootering, boxercise, Pilates, and badminton.

John Thomson, cabinet member for leisure, said: “Healthy Me is a really good programme for Wiltshire’s children and their families.

It provides the perfect opportunity to find out more about healthy eating and the benefits of being more active.

“The course puts the emphasis on having fun while learning important messages that empower families to make healthy choices.

“In its first year, the Healthy Me programme saw 75% of the children who completed the course reduce their BMI, and 85% of parents who participated also reduced their BMI. One parent lost more than 5kg over the 10-week course, which was a great example and achievement.

“I’d urge any interested families to get in touch to find out how Healthy Me can support them to be more healthy and active.”

To find out more about Healthy Me, call 01225 716674, email healthyme@wiltshire.gov.uk or visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisureweight-management

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News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

MAASAI WARRIORS VISIT SELWOOD On the afternoon of Thursday 5 October, Selwood was transformed by the talented Osiligi Maasai Warriors. They provided the children with a brilliant display of dance, song and traditions from their nomadic tribe living near Nairobi in Kenya.

Since 2003, the group have been performing an annual tour of the UK. The pupils have continued to be inspired by the Maasai group. Charlie B said “So cool” and Emily H said “Really good singing, great” The small UK charity Osiligi Charity Projects, supports infrastructural improvements in their local community.

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

CHILDREN IN NEED AT WJS On Friday 17th Nov, the whole of Westbury Junior School took part in raising money for Children in Need.

Both children and staff dressed in as many spots as they could – the winner, with the most amount of spots, had over 10,000! There was also a prize for the best dressed child. It was too tricky to choose between Alfie and Keisha so they each took home a prize.

Throughout the afternoon, the children ran a range of stalls from a book stall to face painting to guess the number of sweets in a jar. Teacher, Vicky Heslop, said “The children were all so keen to raise money for this most fantastic cause.” In fact the school raised over £540.

INTER-FORM GAMES AT OAKFIELD HARVEST FESTIVAL AT BERKLEY SCHOOL The Harvest service that was held on Wednesday 18 October was a sight to behold for the pupils at Berkley School.

The church was packed with pupils, parents and grandparents and once again there was an impressive blend of singing and reading. Thanks went to the Year 4 pupils for organising the service and to all the other classes for their part in decorating the church and writing poems and prayers; to Mrs Randle for rehearsing the music, to Mrs Burgess for playing the organ and Mrs Taylor for officiating. The proceeds from the sale of perishables went to Vianney, the schools child in Burundi whom they support and the tins were donated to the local food bank.

Despite the weather, Oakfield continued with their InterForm Games on Wednesday 18th October. Pupils rose to the challenge and ignored the rain to play on. Every tutor group played against all of the other tutor groups in their year group. The girls played football scoring some excellent goals and great defending too. The boys played basketball, learning new skills as they played.

It was a great effort by all pupils and staff for standing in the rain and showing the resilience to keep going when the weather tries to spoil things.

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ART VISIT FOR SELWOOD Last term, twenty five year 6 pupils took part in a really interesting art workshop in the Wells and Mendip Museum.

The workshop- entitled ‘Playing with Time’ was led by artist Sean Harris- who has been working at Wells Museum for 6 months and looked at climate change and its impact on the Somerset landscape over the last 100,000 years. The pupils involved had the chance to learn about animation processes, such as flip book making.

They also spent time discussing questions like - ‘Is time linear or a loop?’ Learning the Latin words for various beasts and looking at the array of prehistoric bones and fossils that have been found in the Mendip caves - a piece of fossilised Hyena dung was a particular favourite! The group were impeccably behaved, they had a great day out and Sean Harris was full of praise for the pupils.

HARVEST FESTIVAL FOR WESTBURY JUNIORS Westbury Juniors enjoyed a celebratory Harvest Festival at All Saints Church. The whole school walked to the church taking with them a variety of contributions for Crosspoint, which is a Westbury based charity which acts as the local Westbury Food Bank.

The school had been exploring the theme of ‘thankfulness’ and each year group prepared readings on the subject.

The children thought about what they were thankful for in a range of subjects from the countryside to their families.

Teacher Rachel Dardecker said, “It was lovely to see all of the children in the school taking time to really think about the things that they were thankful for in their lives”.

SUPERSCHOOLS VISIT SELWOOD Selwood pupils had a fantastic day when they were visited by Joseph Hylton (110m Hurdles), Grant Fielder (mountain biker) and Julian Golley (Triple jump), courtesy of the Superschools Trust. Selwood has supported this fantastic organisation for over 20 years as they aim to inspire young people to become actively involved with sports, whilst also raising money to fund the training of young, talented athletes.

Julian and Joseph managed to squeeze a visit to the Library into their very busy day. Mrs Hylands talked to them about their favourite books, and like many Selwood pupils headed straight for the Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Horrible History sections!

Joseph spoke very fondly about reading Jaqueline Wilson books with his sister when he was younger, but also loved the gruesome stories in Horrible Histories.

Julian loves reading Diary of a Wimpy Kid with his son, when he gets time in between practising and competing.

INSPIRATIONAL VISIT FROM THOMAS MILLS In support of the recent Dwarfism Awareness Month, Oakfield Academy welcomed Dwarf Sports Association UK’s representative Thomas Mills, who visited to speak to all four Year Groups assemblies regarding his condition.

All pupils and staff listened intently regarding how his life has been affected, his family, learning about his childhood, and what he hopes to achieve in the future.

Everyone thanked Thomas an inspirational visit.

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NEW KIT FOR WESTBURY Pupils and staff from Westbury Junior School in Westbury, are celebrating after being awarded a Premier League Primary Stars kit and equipment pack.

The pack contains a wide variety of equipment including Nike footballs and bibs, pop-up goals, giant dice, cones, balloons, beanbags, hula hoops and a Premiwe League whistle. These will be used primarily to enhance the PE lessons and sports clubs but will also be used in other subjects.

OAKFIELD SCHOOL COUNCIL HAVE TOUR OF SCHOOL KITCHEN Lucky members of the Oakfield Academy School Council visited the kitchen recently for a tour with Area Manager (Edwards & Ward), Nigel Morris. Nigel explained the process behind the production of 700 meals each day, and demonstrated how to roast 30kgs of roast potatoes for the day’s roast dinner. All food prepared in the kitchen is freshly cooked each day. After the tour the Council members were invited to taste samples of the new “Street Food” that is being introduced to the menu. Flatbread pizza, Tuna & lettuce wraps and Ham & Cheese Paninis proved a great success. At the end of the visit the pupils were asked to mark their school kitchen, and every one of them agreed it was a 10/10!

The Kit and Equipment Scheme forms part of the Premier League Primary Stars offer to primary schools in England and Wales. This is a curriculum-linked education programme that uses the appeal of the Premier League and its clubs to inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills.

Delivered by the Football Foundation, the Premier League Primary Stars Kit and Equipment Scheme gives teachers a range of equipment that can be used across different curriculum areas to get children active.

Mathematician Rachel Riley and children’s authors Cressida Cowell and Dan Freedman also helped to create the teaching packs, which use real life sport examples to put lessons into a relevant and engaging context for children.

Richard Scudamore, Executive Chairman of the Premier League and Football Foundation Trustee, said: “Congratulations to Westbury Junior School on their successful application for a Premier League Primary Stars Kit and Equipment pack. We hope this kit, coupled with the free downloadable online resources, will help teachers harness the popularity of football to inspire primary school kids in everything from Maths and English to teamwork and sport.”

Andy Bodymore, Sports Development Coach at Westbury Junior School, said: “We are very grateful for this equipment and have already put it to good use in training for a football competition between local schools. The children are really excited to use the new kit and it has opened up new teaching opportunities for all teachers.”

TRAIN TO BE A TEACHER AT THE MEAD The Mead Teaching School is now recruiting for trainee teachers in 2018-19.

If you are considering a career in teaching, now is the time to visit the school and find out more about The Mead’s teacher training programme and what they can offer you.

Their School Direct programme gives you ‘on the job’ training with a variety of experienced mentors from all three of The Mead Academy Trust schools (The Mead, Castle Mead, and River Mead), as well as in alliance partnership schools in Trowbridge, Westbury and beyond.

There are salaried and non-salaried places available, both of which provide Qualified Teacher Status (the non-salaried route also provides a PGCE qualification).

If you would like to find out more about training to become a teacher, you can go along to an open day on: • Thursday 7th December 2017, from 4.30 – 6.00pm • Wednesday 10th January 2018, from 10.00 – 11.30am There’s no obligation to apply for the programme if you visit.

As Lindsay Palmer, Head of the Teaching School, said “We’re very happy to talk to anyone who is interested in finding out more, whether they’re set to apply now for training in September 2018, or whether it’s something they’re thinking about in the future.”

All you need to do is register your interest by visiting the website: www.themeadteachingschool.org.uk/opendays-2017/ If you can’t make either of the planned dates, but would like to take a tour of the school and have a chat about your options, you can email teachingschool@themead.wilts.sch.uk and an alternative date and time for you to visit can be arranged.

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OAKFIELD ACADEMY REMEMBERS

WILTSHIRE FESTIVAL OF ENGINEERING

On Friday 10th November the entire staff and pupils at Oakfield Academy met on the yard to commemorate Remembrance Day. The ceremony lead by Headteacher Emma Wilkes included poems read by Danny Nguyen and Kara Robinson (both from Year 8). The one minute silence was lead by Math Teacher, Mr Liam Oates playing ‘The Last Post’. Prefects have been selling Poppies all week to pupils and staff in support of The Royal British Legion.

Year 6 children at Bitham Brook Primary School had a fantastic day recently when they attended the Wiltshire Festival of Engineering at the Civic Hall in Trowbridge. The hands-on event gave children some great opportunities to develop their engineering skills, including building a bridge out of spaghetti, exploring with virtual reality headsets, learning how to make the most efficient paper aeroplanes and piercing a balloon with a kebab stick.

David Ross, Headteacher, who attended the event with the children said: ‘This was an excellent opportunity for the children to find out more, to be inspired, for great learning and to have lots of fun. This is a great way for children to be enthused and excited by all the amazing opportunities that are available to them’ One of the Year 6 children said: ‘It was great fun. There were so many things to have a go at and I loved the way it made me think really hard’

Harrison proudly showing his successful experiment (after 9 attempts!) to Michelle Donelan (North Wiltshire MP) and Nick Gibb (Schools Minister).

SURPRISE VISIT FROM PUDSEY BEAR

ROYAL MAIL XMAS STAMP COMPETITION WINNER

Children and staff from Sambourne CE VC Primary School in Warminster were treated to a surprise visit from Pudsey Bear on Friday 17th November 2017.

Pudsey arrived waving to an excitable crowd at 11.15am and enjoyed high 5s and hugs from all of the children and staff.

Members of the school council were then interviewed live on BBC Wiltshire Radio to talk about their fund raising ideas. These included donating 50p to wear something red, yellow or spotty along with 50p to spend at a ‘bring and buy’ sale which they organised that afternoon.

A total of £107 was raised for Children in Need.

Oakfield Academy's Ted Lewis-Clark, aged 11 has received his prize of a cheque for £1,000 for his winning entry in the Royal Mail Christmas Stamp Competition. The cheque, presented by Headteacher, Miss Emma Wilkes at a KS3 assembly, was witnessed

by Ted’s proud parents. There was a collective gasp from the pupils when they were told the amount of cash he had won, and that he is meeting Prince Charles later this month for his Award. Everybody is hoping that his appearance scheduled for a ‘Good Morning Britain’ also takes place. Oakfield's Art Department also received a cheque for £1,000!

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WOW

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT

EMAIL US YOUR WOW! PHOTOS AND DETAILS TO INFO@IGNYTE-UK.CO.UK OR NOW ON OUR WOW! FORM, VISIT WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

Olly Van Gorph, age 6 from Trinity School, Frome passed his Stage 7 swimming Award. Well done Olly.

Iyla Smith aged 5 has achieved her certificate for swimming 5 metres in front crawl. Well done Iyla.

Congratulations to George Merrick who represented Oakhill Church School in the Mendip Junior Schools Cross County League.

George came 4th out of the 103 boys who took part in the race – well done George!

Zac (Deer Class) was presented the Headteacher’s Award at the end of Term 1 for the way that he conducts himself in and around school.

Well done Zac.

Anetka (Deer Class) was presented with this term’s Star Reader awards for Key Stage 2. Great job Anetka.

Isabella (Fox Class) was presented with this term’s Star Reader awards for Key Stage 1. Amazing work Isabella.

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALL ABOUT

CHRISTMAS

V isit Santa's Gr ott o! opening

Saturday 25th November

Grotto opening dates

VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS AND OPENING TIMES

www.shirescentre.co.uk The Shires, Court Street, Trowbridge BA14 8AT 01225 777255