Marlborough Town and Country April 16

Issue 96 . April 2016 People Roger Grant Mantonfest

Features Bird ringing Community wi-fi Jaguar Road Test

News Marlborough Town Council

What’s On In and around Marlborough

Information Community groups Local Businesses

Editor’s Letter Fantastically charitable...

Our interview this month is with Roger Grant who is one of the organisers of Mantonfest, which this year is supporting the Brighter Futures Radiotherapy Appeal, a brilliant cause which will bring much needed cancer treatment to the local area, reducing travelling time for hundreds if not thousands of patients a year. Talking about this got me thinking about how generous people are, and what a huge amount of money is raised for charity every year. From big appeals such as Brighter Futures, Prospect Hospice and the Air Ambulance to smaller local charities like Finlay’s Foundation or Action for the River Kennet – all seem to survive despite there being more and more need.

This is all down to the generosity of people who give as much as they can, including many who give their time and hard work as well as their money. It’s truly heart-warming and is worth remembering when confronted with all the depressing headlines in the newspapers – even the furore over charity cold calling (hopefully a lesson has been learnt there!)

Don’t forget to let us know if you have a charitable event that you would like the wider community to know about, we can include it in our What’s On for the relevant month. Info is needed at the beginning of the month prior to publication. See page 20/21 for this month’s events including the Spring Fair in aid of Cancer Research I hope you enjoy the magazine this month,

Editor Contact us: Andrea Jerome Address: Ivydene, High St, Wanborough, SN4 0AD Tel: 01793 791104, Mob: 07836 580699 Email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk All copy for May 16 issue is due by 7 April 2016.

Contents 3 6 10 13 16 18

Intro Roger Grant Local News Town Council What a carry on Bird ringing

20 22 30 32 36

What’s On Community Motoring Gardening Legal

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

3

An Introduction To

Only £285

(save £95) for a mini course of four sessions • Smooth wrinkles • Tighten loose skin • Reduce cellulite & inches • Increases collagen production See the results for yourself

Call now 01672 513507 www.indulgencebeauty.org.uk

123A High St, Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1LZ

Full range of nail and beauty treatments also available

People

Roger Grant Roger Grant is one of the organisers of Mantonfest, the popular music festival that runs in June every year. Retired, he lives in Manton with his wife Denise.

You and Denise have been together for 22 years, I understand Leap Year has special significance for you both?

Denise and I have both been married before, and in her case she had been put off getting married again! I had asked her to marry me quite a few times, and had pretty much given up. I was thrilled then in 2004 that she decided that she could bear to be married to me, and proposed to me on 29 February. She actually got down on one knee in the restaurant in front of everyone – it certainly was a memorable occasion, and I was delighted to accept!

February is quite meaningful to us as we went for our first date on Valentine’s day.

Are you from this area originally?

No, I was brought up in Kent, but have lived in many different places, including Australia, Sweden and Scotland to name but a few! Denise and I moved to Wiltshire almost by accident – we came on a narrow boat holiday in 2002 and fell in love with it immediately. When we were moored up in Great Bedwyn we happened to notice that the village shop was for sale, and decided to buy it practically on the spot, even though neither of us had run a shop before!

6

We ran it for seven years before we decided to retire.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time there but it was hard work and very long hours. We had hoped to stay in Great Bedwyn, but couldn’t find a suitable property in our price range, so we widened our search and found our current cottage in Manton.

Are you glad you moved to Manton?

Absolutely, we loved Great Bedwyn, but we love Manton just as much if not more. It is the most welcoming place I have ever lived, we have made some wonderful friends.

What keeps you busy since you retired?

In Manton, there are two drinks parties every year for newcomers to the village to meet people. It was at one of these that I met Stuart Whant, who persuaded me to join the Village Hall committee. The committee is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the hall, and also fundraising to make sure there’s enough money to do the bigger jobs that crop up, such as a new roof etc.

It’s very well used, and we have regular events such as the quiz which has become very popular, and quite competitive. I compile the questions, and it has gradually got harder as that seems to be what the audience wants.

Stuart is also the person that started Mantonfest, and he asked me if I would help him run it, so that keeps me busy too.

Tell us a bit about Mantonfest’s history It was started by Stuart six years ago to raise money for the village hall. The first one was in the Outside Chance’s beer garden, and it bucketed it down. Nevertheless, it was a success and we wanted to continue. It needed a bigger venue though, so I spoke to the kind owners at Manton Grange and secured permission to use one of their water meadows. We also had marquees, and a professional bar. Unfortunately, the second year it threw it down again!

(May be something to do with it being the same weekend as Glastonbury) The event was

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

People popular, so we persevered and for the past three years we have had good weather, and the festival has grown so much that we had to move to a larger field. This year will be bigger and better than ever – we have professional bands Animals and Friends and Dr Feelgood, as well as a range of great local bands that have become regulars.

Does it still raise money for the Village Hall?

It does, but since it got bigger we raise money for other charities too. This year we are raising money for The Brighter Futures Radiotherapy appeal, which needs to raise £2.9m to provide the equipment for the planned new radiotherapy centre at GWH. It is a cause close to my heart, after seeing how difficult it was for a friend to have to make round trips all the way to Oxford for radiotherapy. The new centre will make life much easier for cancer patients in this area.

How is the money raised?

Through ticket sales, obviously, but we also have a programme that people can advertise in, and sponsorship packages. People can also take a stall, and donate a proportion of their sales to the charity.

Is it a lot of work?

It keeps us busy. We have a committee of four: myself, Stuart, Anne Morgan and Linda Yeardley. We hold committee meetings usually at my house so not too formal.

We think about the bands in October, and a lot of the organising takes place in the winter months, which is great for me, as it gives me plenty to keep me occupied while there’s not a lot to do in the garden.

How do you choose the bands?

For the professional bands

we contact agents with a few ideas to see who is available.

This year we considered going for really well known bands such as Madness or Status Quo, but the costs were huge, making it too risky for us. Also we decided that that probably wasn’t right for our event, as it has a real family feel which might be lost if the crowds got too big.

We have gone for a couple of bands that are really well known, and were huge in their heyday – (The Animals) now Animals and Friends and Dr Feelgood. Many of the other bands approach us, and we have a good core that have played with us since the start, as well as introducing some new local bands this year.

What do you enjoy most about being involved in the community?

We have got to know lots of people, and made great friends. Everybody works together for the good of the village and the charities, there are no petty politics just cooperation. The sense of achievement when we have a successful event is very satisfying too.

Is there anything you don’t enjoy?

Especially with Mantonfest, the uncertainty of the weather.

I’m on tenterhooks for days leading up to the event, luckily the past few years have been kind. Long may it continue!

What else do you enjoy spending time doing?

As already mentioned, I’m a keen gardener. I have a reasonably large garden, so try and keep us in home grown vegetables all year round. I’m quite competitive with my neighbour. We run a plant sale in the village every May, where everyone sells their surplus plants to raise money for the hall.

I’m also very keen on history – I studied it at university, and have always maintained an interest in it. I’ve always enjoyed the period from the Industrial revolution to the First World War. Since moving to Wiltshire I’ve become much more interested in ancient history because of the many historic sites nearby.

I also seem to have been roped into being the compere for local events such as the quiz, an auction of promises, and bingo. I hadn’t really done anything like it before, but find I quite enjoy it.

What do you enjoy reading?

Perhaps unsurprisingly I enjoy historical novels – I especially enjoy them when they are set in a period I am familiar with. I like Bernard Cornwell’s books, and have been lucky enough to meet him once or twice.

I’ve also been known to delve into a non-fiction historical tome if there is something I am interested to find out about.

How about music?

I’m an old rocker at heart, having grown up in the 50s and 60s. Elvis is one of my musical heroes; I even sported a quiff in my younger days. It was always getting me in trouble at my catholic school; the brothers weren’t very impressed! Nowadays my musical taste is wide from pop to classical.

Films?

I prefer the old classics, with a penchant for Westerns. You can’t beat a good John Wayne film!

This year Mantonfest is on Saturday 25 June. For further details see mantonfest. co.uk or www.facebook.com/ Mantonfest.

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

7

Local News

Free wi-fi in Marlborough Area There have been celebrations recently as the community wi-fi scheme that began to be rolled out in 2011 reached 100 per cent coverage of Marlborough Town centre.

The scheme allows anyone with a wifienabled device to log on to the internet for 20 minutes at a time, as often as they like, for no charge, while regular users who want an uninterrupted service can pay £10 per year for unlimited use on 2 devices.

Championed by Marlborough Area Development Trust the scheme also covers parts of Avebury, Aldbourne, Ramsbury, and Lockeridge, and is being developed all the time, with the trust always on the lookout for new businesses to join the scheme.

The system works by business owners donating a fraction of their wifi bandwidth to the scheme by means of a ‘node’. There are currently 37 nodes in the town, which relay and boost the Free cCommunity Wifi signal around the town.

The nodes offer added security implications to business owners: they also allow businesses to offer wifi to visitors to their premises, without the need to give them access to their company broadband router.

The nodes also have built-in firewalls and content filtering,

10

which means certain websites - for instance sites with adult content, or which encourage or enable piracy - are blocked to users of the community wifi scheme.

Bob Holman of The Food Gallery, and board member of MADT says ““Visitors to the town, whether they are tourists, or locals popping in to shop and do business, can benefit from free wifi, and that’s a terrific selling point for Marlborough.”

For more information on how to use the wi-fi when in the area, or to become a partner in the scheme, visit www.marlborougharea.org/ Community+Wifi

Open your garden for Prospect Hospice

Would you like to open your garden and raise funds for Prospect Hospice? Previous years have seen people open their gardens for afternoon tea, live music and even a mini-fete. You don’t have to open your garden to the public: why not turn your family occasion into a fundraiser? No matter how big or small your garden; there are lots of ways for you to turn it into the perfect fundraising event. Last year’s programme raised £7000 for the Prospect, which runs an Outpatient Centre at Savernake Hospital, and it is hoped that this year

will be bigger and better.

Prospect Hospice has community fundraisers that can help you with ideas and promoting your event if you are opening to the public.

If you would like to take part in the Open Gardens programme 2016 for Prospect Hospice, please visit www.prospect-hospice.net/ opengardens

Mantonfest supports Brighter Futures

Mantonfest, the popular music festival held in June has announced that this year’s event will be held in support of Brighter Futures Radiotherapy Centre at Great Western Hospital in Swindon. Brighter Futures needs to raise £2.9m to equip a new radiotherapy centre which will eliminate the need for cancer patients to spend hours travelling for treatment in Oxford. Oxford University Hospital will build the centre and run the service, the money is needed to equip the centre.

Mantonfest is a popular family event attracting around 2000 revellers every year, with a wide range of music from professional acts such as Animals and Friends and Dr Feelgood, to local bands that have played since the festival started six years ago. To find out more about Mantonfest visit mantonfest.co.uk

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Delicatessen & Ar�san Wines Find us at: Unit 4, Cadley Rd, Collingbourne Ducis Wilts SN8 3EB

01264 852701

www.gastronicks.co.uk Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

11

12

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

The New Greyhound Marlborough’s New Town Cryer

quality. This is an old tradition dating back to when the Borough Council granted licences to serve ale and one well worth keeping.

We have a fabulous new Town Cryer! Let us introduce you to Mr Michael Tupman, MBE. Affectionately known as ‘Tuppers,’ he’s Marlborough’s well-loved and much respected former Special Constable. At a short ceremony on Monday, 7th March, he was welcomed by the Town Mayor, Councillor Margaret Rose and her fellow Councillors. Alfie Johnson, who held the post for 21 years, officially relinquished the role and handed over the bell to his successor. We are delighted to have appointed someone who is perfect for the role - a wonderful voice, with real authority and a bit of a performer who will fit in perfectly with our Macebearers, Bob Dobie, Barry Mercer and Geoffrey Snelgrove.

The Town Cryer will also have the role of Beadle and lead ceremonial processions to civic events, Remembrance Sunday Parades and more.

Marlborough has had a Town Cryer for hundreds of years.

In 1913 Marlborough’s Mr Angliss was champion Town Cryer of Great Britain and in the following year, the national competition took place in Marlborough Town Hall with candidates from all over the country.

Another important role for our Town Cryer will be that of Official Ale Taster and he will tour the town visiting all its public houses where it will be his duty to taste each publican’s ale to judge its

Greatwood Charity Our Mayor and Councillors recently visited the amazing Greatwood at Clench Common to hand over a cheque for £928 to its Founder and Managing Director, Helen Yeadon.

This was Town Council grant funding for this inspiring charity which looks after retired racehorses and runs courses to help disadvantaged children build up their confidence through working with these beautiful animals. It’s a really happy environment and easy to see why young people look forward to coming here and progress so well. Councillors were given a guided tour by fundraiser, Mrs Sasha Thorbek-Hooper, and were thoroughly impressed by the breadth of work going on.

Clean for the Queen A big well done to members of Marlborough Youth Council who turned out on a cold Saturday morning to litter pick as part of the Clean for the Queen campaign. Led by Cllr

Lisa Farrell and supported by the Mayor and Town Clerk, they worked up and down the High Street, at the Recreation Ground at Salisbury Road and right up to Tesco collecting loads of rubbish. Lots of good feedback and appreciation from the public too.

Annual Parish Meeting You are invited to come along to the Annual Parish Meeting on Monday, 25th April at 7pm in the Town Hall. This is your meeting, our local electorate, to hear about what the Town Council has been involved with in the last year and a chance for you to ask questions. Look out for more details at www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk

Local Council Tax Your local tax pays towards services provided by Wiltshire Council, Wiltshire Police Authority, Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service and the Town Council. The proportion which pays for the running of the Town Council, known as the precept, is by far the smallest at around 10% of your overall bill. Councillors have a duty to provide value for money services and have raised the precept by only 4.96% for 2016/17. So, for a Band D household the annual precept will be £156.73 - an increase on the 2015/16 figure of £7.40 or 61p a month or 14p a week.

Comments and enquiries to the council are always welcome, you can contact us on:Tel: 01672 512487 Email: enquiries@marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk Web: www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk Official news from Marlborough Town Council

13 13

The Avenue Day Nurseries 3 Months - 5 Years 58 Places 08:00 - 18:00 Ofsted Registered Holiday Club Breakfast Club After-School Club

Marlborough - Town Centre

Savernake

2 - 5 Years 16 Places 08:00 - 18:00 Ofsted Registered

www.avenue-nursery.co.uk

Savernake 01672 870790 Marlborough 01672 519009

we do digital media 1 The Green, Marlborough, SN8 1AL

Your local digital media company Talk to us about how we can help your business communications Technical expertise together with a friendly, informal service.

Videos Websites

If you’re looking for support in your next project, let’s talk!

0845 123 5725

Multimedia E-learning

For more information visit www.moleproductions.com

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

15

People

Am I getting carried away?

Have you ever stopped yourself in your tracks and wondered what on earth you are doing?

I have, and still do, often, and a lot of times it involves an object that has increasingly become my nemesis over the years. What could it be I hear you say. Well, it’s simple, it’s the humble carrier bag.

It all started many years ago when I was a little girl and used to go shopping with my Nana. Shopping was fun until, from her bag came the many plastic pack away gadgets, her rain hat, her pac a mac and her fold up bag. Initially they were awesome things produced Mary Poppins style from the depths of the bag, but as I grew older, my toes curled in embarrassment. I have a vague memory of having been given one of the said rain hats. Sadly, I “lost” it very quickly and always ensured after that that I had a coat with me, with a hood.

Then came the keeping up with the Joneses bag phase when my children were at primary school. Their first school was such that every time they had to take extra things in with them like costumes for plays or cakes for birthdays, I’d spend hours finding the right bag. Oh no, Tescos and Waitrose wouldn’t do, I’d

16

have to fish out a posh bag, thick paper style, maybe from a nice clothing store with lovely cord handles.

Even now, I find myself hoarding such bags.... just in case. There are piles of them in my garage, waiting to be used.

The new law in England whereby we need to pay for our plastic bags has heralded a new era for me.

Although at first I kicked out at the thought of having to pay for bags, I have now embraced this fully. My initial plan of having my car boot full of bags ready for my shopping failed every time. I never remembered to take the bags out of the boot before going shopping, so I’d still have to pay for fresh bags. And then I saw it, smiling at me across the shop counter. My very own pack away bag which tucks tidily into my handbag and is there for me every time it’s needed like a faithful friend. Better still, it is the most garish green floral thing that you have ever

seen. My Nana would have been so very proud of me.

My daughter, however, has a different view. It’s like a teenager deterrent.

She does not want to go anywhere near it and if I ask her to carry it you’d think that I’d asked her to spend a weekend doing simultaneous equations.

“Mummy you are soooo embarrassing” she wails.

What next in my relationship with bags I wonder? I have a hankering for one of those designer trolley bags when I’m old.

Groovy and practical.

Bring it on.

Fiona Kellow Fiona Kellow is a working mum of two.

When she isn’t running around after her family she is a Partner at Thrings Solicitors, specialising in family law.

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

GREAT RELATIONSHIPS DON’T GROW ON TREES 1 The Green, Marlborough, SN8 1AL Tel: 01672 512204 www.thrings.com

THRINGS SOLICITORS

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

17

Outdoors

Bird ringing at Stonebridge Action for the River Kennet (ARK) welcomed Matt Prior, a highly experienced bird ringer and his team to Stonebridge Meadow (jointly owned with Marlborough Town Council) early in February.

The public were invited to the Bird Ringing Demo to see the birds that depend on this site up close and learn more about the species and the value of bird ringing.

A huge variety of species were caught, ringed and released and members of the community who arrived for the early start were treated to magnificent views of a barn owl hunting across the Wild Scrub Habitat area for several hours, as well as spotting a kingfisher in the undergrowth near the river. “Local children attending were particularly captivated by the blue

18

Wren

tits that with instruction and supervision they were able to hold. This event proved very popular and shows what a variety of birds use the reserve and what a great green space Stonebridge is for all ages, for people of the town and beyond.�, said ARK Project Officer Anna Forbes. For more information on ARK, see www.riverkennet.org

Goldcrest

Greenfinch

Kingfisher

Bullfinch

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

19

What’s On

What’s On April 2016 Marlborough Onscreen Events Giselle Live from the Royal Opera House

Marlborough Spring Fair

The greatest of all romantic ballets, Peter Wright’s production of Marius Petipa’s classic is a tale of betrayal, the supernatural and love that transcends death.

Tickets: £15 in advance or £17.50 on door, box office www.marlboroughonscreen.events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge, telephone 07771704253

www.marlboroughcancerresearch.org

Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Date: Wednesday 6 April, 7.15pm doors open 6.45pm

Marlborough Onscreen Events Burnt (15)

Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Date: Thursday 7 April 7.30pm doors open 7pm

Chef Adam Jones (Bradley Cooper) had it all-and lost it.

A two star Michelin rockstar with the bad habits to match, the former enfant terrible of the Paris restaurent scene did everything different every time and only cared about the explosions of taste. Tickets: £5 in advance or £6 on door, box office www.marlboroughonscreen.events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge telephone 07771704253

Marlborough College Health Club Open Morning Date: Saturday 9 April, 9-11.30am Venue: Marlborough College

Celebrating the 1st Anniversary of the public opening of the club.

Come along for a chat, cup of coffee and a complimentary swim.

More info call 07747 758107

Brilliant Young Pianist Concert

Date: Sunday 10 April at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church, Marlborough

International award winning pianist Kausikan Rajeshkumar joins us for the fourth of our current series of recitals to play Bach, Scriabin, Chopin and Schumann. Tickets (£10/£8 for StP/MBG members) are available from the Marlborough Brandt Group offices, Sound Knowledge or the White Horse Bookshop.

20

Date: Sunday 10 April, 10am - 4pm Venue: Marlborough College The annual Spring fair in aid of Cancer Research, lots of lovely things for home and garden. For more info or 07887 924539

Merchant’s House Spring Lecture

Brooklyn

Local ecclesiastical historian David Sherratt lectures on “The Earl and Rector, Mayor and Councillor - a tale of 18th century Privilege and Patronage”. Tickets from the Merchant’s House or on the door.

Marlborough History Society

Date: Thursday 14 April at 6.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough

Marlborough Players present Easy Stages and Hiss the Villain

Dates Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 April, 7.15 for 7.45pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

Two one act plays - “Easy Stages”

by N.J. Warburton and “Hiss the Villain” by A.R. Taylor and W. Ernest Cossons both of which will be directed by Tony Michael.

Tickets £8 £8 from the White Horse Bookshop, or www.wegottickets. com/MarlboroughPlayers.

Enquiries only: 07470 362723 For more information go to www.marlboroughplayers.co.uk

Bedwyn Music Society Concert

Date: Friday 15 April, 7.30 Venue: Great Bedwyn Church

Flute Recital by young Spanishborn virtuoso Diego Acena, with Jonathan Musgrave on piano, to include Debussy, Enesco, Handel and Poulenc. Admission at the door £14, Children free. Enquiries 01672 870271

Ramsbury Roxy The Lady In The Van (12A) Date: Friday 15 April, 7.30 for 8pm

Adapted by Alan Bennett from his 1999 hit West End play of the same name, which was nominated at the 2000 Olivier Awards for Play of the Year. it tells the true story about Mary Shepherd an elderly woman who lived in a battered car on the driveway of the writer

Alan Bennett for 15 years. Tickets £4 from Ramsbury post office until 1pm on the day or £4.50 at the door

Date: Thursday 21st April at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough

Ian Caskie from the SS Great Britain Trust lectures on “The SS Great Britain - from launch to re-launch”. Guest tickets for nonmembers available on the door.

Marlborough Onscreen Events Brooklyn (12A)

Date: Thursday 21 April 7.30pm doors open 7pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Eilis Lacey followed her sister, Rose’s, plan to leave Ireland and find a better future and a job in the US. Tickets: £5 in advance or £6 on door, box office www. marlboroughonscreen.events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge telephone 07771704253

Jumble Sale

Date: Saturday 23 April, 10am-12pm Venue: Ogbourne Primary School

Come and grab yourself a bargain clothes, shoes, accessories, toys, books, homeware, bric-a-brac, refreshments. Admission 50p Raising funds for Ogbourne Primary School. Donations for the sale gratefully received call 07771 733326 for collection

Jumble Sale

Date: Saturday 23rd April, 2-4pm Venue: Preshute Primary School, Manton, Marlborough A fantastic event, grab youself a bargain at this well-established charity event. Entrance 50p, refreshments available.

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

What’s On Marlborough Choral Society Choral Concert Haydn and Rutter Date: Saturday 23 April, 7.30pm Venue: St Mary’s Church, Marlborough

Haydn’s delightful Harmoniemesse and the wonderful Requiem by John Rutter will be performed by Marlborough Choral Society at their Spring concert.

Tickets £8 (£1 for students, under 16s free). Refreshments available during the interval.

Tickets from Sound Knowledge, choir members or on the door or phone Jane on 01672 511880.

St George’s Day Charity Concert

Date: Saturday 23 April, 7pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall The Royal Wootton Bassett

Academy and Aldbourne Band will be providing an evening of popular music and patriotic songs in an upbeat English themed celebration for St George’s Day. Buffet included.All proceeds in aid of Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Stroke Association and Hope UK, which educates children about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.

For further details and tickets please telephone the White Horse Bookshop on 01672 513700 or Sound Knowledge on 01672 511106. Alternatively please telephone the organiser Lloyd James on 01793 827620 or email stgeorgesdayconcert@gmail.com

Plant Fair

Date: Sunday 24 April, 10.30 to 3pm Venue: Barbury Racecourse, SN8 1RS

Plants, refreshments, Planters, Garden Sculptures. In aid of Kennet Valley Carriage Driving Group for the disabled. Adults £3, children under 12 free.

Aldbourne Village Green Community Market

Date: Sunday 24 April, 11am until around 2pm

There will be a range of fresh food stalls offering crepes, waffles, burgers, cakes and more – all adding up to a delicious brunch or light lunch. Other stall holders will have a wide range of food treats made on local farms or by small artisan producers. There will also be hand crafted goods ranging from baby clothes, artists cards and natural cosmetics to plants for filling a gap in the spring border.

Do come – visitors are assured of a warm welcome and a pleasant time. Village Green welcomes new traders. To find out more call Lesley on 01672 540180 or Chris on 01672 540655.

Marlborough Annual Parish Meeting Date: Monday 25 April, 7pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

Hear what the council have been involved in over the past year and ask any questions. More info at www.marlboroughtowncouncil.co.uk

Marlborough Brandt Group Annual Trophy Quiz Date: Wednesday 27 April at 7pm Venue: St John’s School, Marlborough

Open to teams of 4-6, entry fee £10 per person (£5 for students), with Cheese and pate platter included. Prizes, Raffle, Bar, Free parking Register your team at www.mbg.org/events or 01672 861116

Marlborough Onscreen Events The Car Man recorded live screening from The Sadler’s Wells Theatre Date: Thursday 28 April 7pm doors open 6.30pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall

From the internationally acclaimed choreographer Matthew Bourne.

The Car Man is loosely based on Bizet’s popular opera Carmen and has the most thrilling and instantly recognisable scores in music. Tickets: £10 adults, £8 students box office www.marlboroughonscreen.events or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge telephone 07771704253

Ramsbury Roxy Suffragette (12A)

Date: Friday 29 April, 7.30 for 8pm The Car Man

women who inspired the world.

This is the first ever feature film to tell the story of the foot soldiers of the early feminist movement who risked everything in the fight for equality. Tickets £4 from Ramsbury post office until 1pm on the day or £4.50 at the door

Marlborough Floral Club.

Presents Spring Into Summer

Date: Wednesday 4 May, 7.30pm.

Venue:Marlborough Town Hall

A demonstration by Sandy Bailey, (Nafas National Demonstrator) Tickets £10 available from Hedge Rose Florist,London Road Marlborough; Midway Stores Ramsbury;Sarah Styles Florist Bridge St Hungerford; Wendy Jordan. 07860 527742

Further Afield Archaeology in Wiltshire Conference Date: Saturday 16 April, 9.30am-5.00pm Venue: Corn Exchange, Market Place, Devizes

The 4th Annual one-day conference highlighting the latest Archaeological research and news from Wiltshire.Celebrating 30 years of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the UK. Speakers include Jim Leary, University of Reading: Excavating Marden and Wilsford Henges; Steve Marshall : Water and Springs at Silbury Hill; Nick Snashall, National Trust, Avebury: Between the Monuments (also Richard Osgood, MoD : Operation Nightingale – Bronze Age barrow at Netheravon)For more information and booking (essential) www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk/ events 01380 727369

Bushton Manor Annual Plant Fair Date: Monday 2 May, 11am-4pm Venue: Bushton Manor, SN4 7PX

This is the only time that 18th century Bushton Manor has its gardens open to the public. It is held in aid of St Peters Church, Clyffe Pypard and has specialist and home grown plants, local food suppliers, crafts, BBQ, cakes, bric a brac, teas and games for children.

Car Parking is free and it will cost you £2 for entrance, children free. www.clyffepypard-bushton.com

Inspired by the true story of the

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

21

Community

Community Information These pages detail useful local numbers and community groups. If you have a group or society you would like featured here please telephone 01793 791104 or email aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Local Societies and Groups Air Cadets (2293 Marlborough Squadron) Marlborough Air cadets welcome all young people aged 13-18 who are interested in Aviation and Adventure: Parade nights Tues and Fri 1900-2130 Follow us on Facebook www.facebook. com/2293MarlboroughAirCadets Email 2293@aircadets.org 01672 516811 Dance Classes in Marlborough Ballroom and Latin American dance classes, and for those with no partner Dancersize sessions.

Please contact Amanda on 07882-882030 or email learntodance@mac.com for more info Depression Alliance The Marlborough and District SELF-HELP GROUP meets the first Tuesday of every month. If you’ve got depression, or know someone who might benefit from being part of our group, please get in touch.

Call 0845 123 23 20 for location details.

Stained Glass Lessons.

Wed.& Thurs morning 9.30-11.30.

Mon.Tues.& Wed evening 7-9. Suitable for all, learn stained glass or kiln-formed glass.

Held at; Ogbourne St. George.

Contact jeannette 07977 053363 or jet@jeannettetherrien.com Girl Guides Meet Tuesdays during term times at Manton Village Hall 1st Marlborough Rainbows, 4.45-5.45pm, Contact fryrachel@yahoo.co.uk 1st Marlborough Guides, 5.45-7.15pm Contact sianybubbles@hotmail.com Inner Wheel Club of Marlborough and District Evening meetings on 4th Monday of every month at the Crown Hotel, The Parade Marlborough. Secretary Nita Martin 01380 730974 Jubilee Centre Day Centre (Mon, Tues and Fri) and Drop-in Centre (Wed and Thurs - Lunch served 12.30pm £5.00) for over sixties. For more information phone Carole Walkeron 01672 513087 Kennet Accordion Orchestra Meets on Monday night from 7.30pm, in Froxfield and has a wide playing base of players from Swindon through Marlborough to Newbury and encourage accordion players of all standards to join and enjoy a

22

varied selection of music from pop through to classics.

The current Southern Area Champions and established throughout the region for its diverse repertoire. Contact Nigel Pasby A.B.C.A.(t.d.) L.B.C.A. on 07894032757 or email nigelpasby@gmail.com For more information go to www.kennetaccordionorchestra.com Kennet Community Transport KTC runs a minibus with tail lift for people for whom normal transport is impractical. Contact the driver on 07850 356572 or Alexander Kirk Wilson on 01672 513861 Kennet Valley Driving Group RDA carriage driving for adults (16+) with physical disabilities. New volunteers and participants welcome. Sessions on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Rockley. For more info call the Secretary, Maggie Lewis, on 0846 241 5396 or email kennetvalleydrivinggroup@gmail.com Kennet Valley National Trust Association Monthly meetings with speakers on a variety of subjects, summer outings to interesting places and social events.

For more information please call Ann King (Chair) on 01380 727130 or Rhona Wilkinson (Membership Secretary) 01380 726433 Learn To Play Bridge Lessons for Absolute Beginners & Improvers Friendly club sessions also available Marlborough Area, No Partner needed Friendly relaxed atmosphere Please contact Andy Hill for further details and availability 01380 724725 Line dancing Meet every Tuesday (except August) at St John’s School, Marlborough Class runs 7-10 pm and covers beginners through to advanced Contact Tessa on 01672 520336 or tessahicks@btinternet.com Marlborough Accordion Orchestra Rehearsals on Monday in Wesley Hall Marlborough.

Training Orchestra 6.30p.m. / Main Orchestra 7.30 p.m.

New and experienced players of all ages welcome.

M.D. David Watson. Contact 01672 512634 Marlborough and District Link Scheme Marlborough Link is a charity dedicated to assisting the disadvantaged members of our community, whether because of age, physical or mental disability, poverty or absence of public transport.If you need us, or if you would like to help please telephone 01672 288007.

Marlborough Brandt Group MBG is best known for its 30 year link with and support for the Muslim community of Gunjur in The Gambia, West Africa. If you are interested in becoming a friend, volunteering or visiting Gunjur for an extraordinary experience please contact us 01672861116, or info@mbg.org or visit www.mbg.org

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Alexandra Wax and Gerald Payne Registered Members MBACP, counsellors and psychotherapists

07582 968 553 Marlborough www.savernakecounselling.co.uk alexandra@savernakecounselling.co.uk gerald@savernakecounselling.co.uk

If you’re reading this, so are your customers....

Advertise in this space from only £18 + VAT, and reach up to 8000 potential customers

issue 71 . march 2014

People Debi Evans Children’s Author

Features

Look after your feet!

Marlborough Science Walking as a soloist Fair

Further Information Telephone: 01793 791104 Email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

News Marlborough Town Council

What’s On In and around Marlborough

Delivered FREE to 7000 homes in Marlboroug Axford, Aldbourne, Ogbournes, Ramsbury, h, Manton, Mildenhall, and available from Great Bedwyn, key local outlets Burbage

PODIATRY CLINIC Podiatry/Chiropody & Foot Health HCPC reg.

Professional Advice Routine & Specialist Care Nail Surgery - Orthotics

01672 514581 07910 525376

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

23

Community Marlborough Choral Society Rehearses every Monday 7.45 to 9.30pm in Christchurch, New Rd, Marlborough. New members welcome, for more information Tel 01672 870765 Marlborough Concert Orchestra Rehearsals take place on Tuesday evening at Christ Church, New Road, Marlborough, 7.30 pm Anyone wishing to join is invited to make contact with the orchestra through the website www.mco.org.uk Marlborough Gardening Association Welcomes anyone with an interest in gardening.

Meetings or visits most months throughout the year. For more information call Tricia Hayllar on 01672 512435, www.marlbga.org.uk.

Marlborough & District Farming Club Meets every third Thursday of the month, September through to June, with a Ploughman’s Supper and a varied programme of interest to members. Meetings in Oare Village Hall 7.30 pm and four times in the winter at All Cannings. Open to anyone interested in country life Secretary Richard Strong 01672 563371 email dianemstrong@aol.com.

Marlborough and District Concert Club Marlborough and District Concert Club was founded in 1980 in order to take advantage of some of the many first-class professional musical events available within coach distance of Marlborough. We arrange visits to concerts in Basingstoke, Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham, Southampton and Reading and occasionally London and Birmingham. We normally go to 11 concerts each year: orchestral, chamber music, recitals and opera.

For more information call Tom Massey, 01672 516610.

Marlborough and District Dyslexia Association The MDDA is a small, independent charity which has for the last 22 years supported local schools, hundreds of dyslexics and their families. Helpline 07729452143, website www.marlboroughdistrictdyslexia.org Marlborough and District Rotary Club Rotary is an International Organisation of professional and business people who meet every week for fellowship and service. Meetings every Monday evening at Marlborough Golf Club. For more information visit www.marlboroughrotary.org.uk Marlborough Bowls Club Tel: 07747 833436 Secretary Mrs A. Watts 01672 511335 Outdoor season April - October.

New members always welcome, coaching and advice available Monthly networking breakfasts, see www.chambernews.biz for more info.

Marlborough & District Lions Lions serve the local community by organising events to raise funds for local and national deserving causes.

If you would like to join or need support please ring John Edmunds 01672 512650 or Karen Hilditch 01672 513282

24

Marlborough Floral Club.

Please come and join us....we meet at 2pm the first Thursday of each month at Mildenhall Village Hall.

Guest demonstrators, and the arrangements are raffled at the end of the meeting. For more info please call Wendy Jordan on 01672 520129.

Marlborough Freemasons Meet once a month in the Masonic Hall in Oxford Street. Far from the myth of being a “secret” organisation, members are openly proud of their membership, and of the work that the Lodge does to support local organisations and charities. More details from Secretary Steve Aubertin on 01672 513316 or e-mail him 1533@pglwilts.org.uk Marlborough History Society Founded in 2001 the Society celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2011. Meetings are held at St. Peter’s at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of most months.

New members are always welcome. For more information call 01672 519338. Web site: www.marlboroughhistorysociety.co.uk Marlborough Macular Support Group Meet on the last Thursday of every month from 1.30 to 3.30 pm in the Wesley Hall, Oxford Street, Marlborough, SN8 1AP. The meetings are open to anyone with impaired vision. Carers are welcome too. For further details please contact Linda Chapman 01672 512471 Marlborough Penguins Amateur Swimming Club.

Swimming teaching/training for ages 5years to Masters. Tues/Thurs/Sun at Marlborough Leisure Centre. Please contact Alan Crook 01672 512757 for details.

Marlborough Police Station Enquiry Office is now only open Tues 0900 - 1700 (closed 1245 1315), Weds 0900 - 1230 and Thurs 0900 - 1700 (closed 1245 - 1315). Please call in to check if your lost property has been handed in, as well as report crime, traffic collisions, produce driving documents, and much more.

Marlborough Tennis Club Based at Preshute Tennis Courts.New members welcome for social and league play. Coaching for children and adults. Contact Barbara Jones 516635 Marlborough WI Meetings take place on the 1st Wednesday of every month at Wesley Hall, Oxford St from 7.30-9.30.

New members very welcome. For further details call 01672 514177 Mildenhall Gardening Club - New, very informal and friendly group, currently meeting at the Horsehoe in Mildenhall on the 3rd Wednesday every month at 7.30pm. For more information contact Milly on 07876 230 540 or millycarmichael@hotmail.com

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

25

Community Phoenix Brass Band Rehearsals twice weekly in Froxfield. Training Band on Saturday mornings. New and experienced players of all ages welcome. Contact Musical Director David Watson 01672 515176 Pilates classes Pilates classes for all levels around the Marlborough area. Please contact Caroline McCord on 01672 511360 or 07817503546 or caroline@backinbalancepilates.com Angie Sanders - Classes are held in Aldbourne.

1:1 tuition available, angiesanders2@icloud.com or 01672 540176 Pottery Lessons Adults:Mon.7-9pm, or Thurs.7-9pm Children’s: Wed. 3.45-5.15. Beginners and more experienced welcome. At Wagon Yard Artists, off London Rd, Marlb. Contact Jacqui 07773 271572 or jacqui.melhuish@btinternet.com Sarsen Songmen A small male voice choir rehearsing in Aldbourne (1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays 7.30 pm), wide repertoire including Barbershop, occasional performances in the local area. New members welcome: contact MichaelReynolds on 01672-511199.

Savernake Badminton Club Savernake Badminton Club is a small friendly club that is long established and affiliated to Badminton England.

We meet on Tuesday evenings between 7.00 and 9.00pm at the Sports Hall at St John’s School, Granham Hill, Marlborough. For further details telephone Roy Turner on 01672 810208 or Barbara Jones on 01672 516635 School of Tae Kwon Do (P.U.M.A.) Classes are held at Marlborough Leisure Centre on Tuesday evening (7 - 8 pm), and Friday evening (6 -7 pm), and are suitable for all ages from 7 years upward.

Please phone John or Carol on 01793 850410 / 07799 566805 for further information.

Scottish Country Dancing Manton Village Hall - Wednesday evenings Beginner session followed by more experienced dancers.Contact Jennifer Parker 01672 515151 St Peter’s Church Marlborough A redundant church now managed by a Trust, featuring a Coffee Shop and a Craft Shop.

The church is open daily 10 am - 5 pm, except Saturdays when it opens at 9 am, and on Sundays from March to December 11 am - 4pm The church is available for hire for exhibitions, meetings, lectures and concerts. For bookings please contact David Du Croz on 01672511725 or email at du.croz@btinternet.com T’ai Chi at Burbage Tai Chi is an excellent exercise designed to strengthen the back and improve the general well-being of the practitioner. In particular it is of great benefit to older

26

people. Open to men and women aged 55 and over.

New members and beginners are most welcome.

Sessions every Thursday, 10-11 am in Burbage Village Hall More details 01672 811711.

The Merchant’s House This historic 17th century silk-merchant’s house at 132 High Street is being refurbished by a charitable trust. Regular lectures and concerts are held and there are opportunities for local people to work as volunteers or house guides. The House and garden are open to visitors from 1st of April to the end of October on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10.30am-3pm and by appointment at other times. Become a ‘Friend’ and enjoy enhanced membership benefits. For more information contact Sophie Costard 01672 511491 Web site: www.themerchantshouse.co.uk Transition Marlborough aims to inspire and motivate people to work together, and support each other, in reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, building a stronger sense of community and so increasing our communities’ resilience. This will strengthen the local economy to create livelihoods for local people and provide a greater level of wellbeing for all. Our Hub group meets on the second Thursday of the month, usually at the Green Dragon, at 7:30pm.

Do join us. For more information, contact Alexandra on 07771 347 379 email secretary@transitionmarlborough.org, www.transitionmarlborough.org University of the Third Age U3A provides learning and leisure opportunities in the Marlborough Area for those who are retired or semi-retired. For information on interest groups and membership call Sarah Foxall on 01264 850316 or visit u3ainkennet.org.uk Watercolour Painting Classes Classes on Wednesdays 10.30am – 12.30pm and Tuesdays 7.30pm – 9.30pm With professional artist Colin Palmer at his studio in central Marlborough. Suitable for beginners and the more experienced. Call Colin on 07835 039 812 or colin@colinpalmer-illustration.co.uk for more details.

Yoga classes for all abilities.

Enjoyable Yoga classes in and around the Marlborough area. Please contact Lizzy Hawnt on 01672 841553, 07821 396 430 or e-mail hawnted.house@btinternet.com Yoga for Men Tuesday evenings 7.30pm -9.15pm for all abilities including beginners at Minal Village Hall, Mildenhall Please contact Jonathan Heath on 01672 513738 e.mail: jonathan@samtosha.co.uk Aldbourne Village Green A voluntary organisation managing a community orchard and running a twice yearly market for local bakers, makers and growers on the Green. New volunteers and traders welcome. For details contact Lesley on 01672 540180

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Community Parents & Toddlers Chilton Chicks Toddler Group Join us for a variety of crafts, toys, snacks, a cuppa and a chat. New faces are always welcome.

Mondays 9.30-11.30am in the Chilton Foliat Village Hall (Next to the Wheatsheaf pub). Adults £1, Toddlers £1 & under 6 months are free. Call Liz on 01488 684526 for further details.

Creepy Crawlers meet Fridays 10 – 11.30am at the Scout Hut, Marlborough Tel: 01672 811495 The Corner House Children’s Centre offering information, support, advice and activity sessions to families with children 0-5 in Marlborough and the community area. George Lane Car Park Tel 01672 513010 Great Bedwyn Playgroup Ofsted Outstanding Playgroup for 2 to five year olds, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday during term-time. Toddler group for 0 - 5 years olds, every Wednesday during term-time. Sessions include crafts, snack, story and music time, and outside play area.

Great Bedwyn Village Hall, Frog Lane, Great Bedwyn, near Marlborough SN8 3PB Tel. 01672 870 179 or visit www.greatbedwynplaygroup.org.uk Home-Start Calling all volunteer parents....Could you help make a difference for young families? Many parents need help, friendship, advice or support during those early years when children are young. Your experience as a parent can help others. For more details contact Home-Start Kennet 01672 569457 Junipers Creative and sensory play for babies to preschoolers.

01672 890829, wwwjuniperscreativeplay.com Little Dabchicks Parent and Under 4’s group, meets Thursday mornings 9.30 - 11.30 Term time.In the Aldbourne Methodist Hall, Lottage Road Zoe - 01672 540439 Little Dragons Pre School Ogbourne St George Village Hall All children aged 2 - 5 years welcome at our well established pre-school held in a quiet village setting in Ogbourne St George. It is a warm, friendly environment where we are open Monday to Friday for mornings 9.05am to 12.05pm or 1.05pm (if staying for lunch) and all day Wednesdays until 3.05pm.For more information email linda@littledragons.org or call 07855 026083. Alternatively do look at our website at www.littledragons.org.

Manton Preschool.

Based in the heart of the beautiful village of Manton - our well-established friendly Preschool provides exemplary education for 2-5 year olds. We are a “Good” Ofsted setting providing Rising Fives sessions as well

28

as healthy snacks, crafts, singing, story time, French, outdoor play and much more. For more details, please ring 01672 516675.

Marlborough and District NCT We have an active group in Marlborough, with courses, events and ‘Bumps and Babes’ cafes. The cafes are an opportunity to meet other parents, grandparents and parents-to-be for a coffee and a chat. For more information contact nctmarlborough@yahoo.co.uk or go to www.nct.org.uk/branches/marlborough.

Ramsbury Parent and Toddlers meets Wednesdays 10 – 12 in the Memorial Hall Tel: 01672 520961 Sunflowers at Grafton is a Nursery & Pre school for children aged 0-5 situated in beautiful East Grafton. Open from 8am-6pm, 51 weeks each year, morning & afternoon sessions are available. Sunflowers is community run on a not-for-profit basis. For more information see www.sunflowers-grafton.co.uk or call 01672 810478

Doctors Ramsbury Surgery Tel:01672 520366 The Marlborough Surgery Tel: 01672 512187 Wiltshire Out of Hours Service Tel: 0300 111 5717

Leisure Herongate Leisure 01488 682000 Marlborough Leisure Centre 01672 513161

Local Government Marlborough Town Council 01672 512487 See www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk for full details of council meetings Wiltshire Council 0300 456 0100

Schools Ogbourne St. George & St. Andrew C of E Controlled Primary School Tel: 01672 841318 St Michael’s CE Aided School, Back Lane, Tel: 01672 540434 Ramsbury Primary School Back Lane, Tel: 01672 520244 St Mary’s Infant School Tel: 01672 513101 St Peter’s Junior School Tel: 01672 513158 Preshute Primary School Tel: 01672 512754 St John’s School and Community College Tel: 01672 516156 Stepping Stones Pre-Prep School Tel: 01488 681 067

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS in 2016 with

Print & Distribution Service LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING SO LUTIONS

AB

EST

TAE

G.

nce

fide Con

ce efen f-D

Sel

n&

DOOO NN--DD O O W EEKKKW TTTAAAE re ree hhilildilddr &&CCCh eenn n& omme W Woom n,, ,W een n M M e r FororM sFo ess rtrtsF Fitn ial lArAts aartrt aliaA M rti aM ty

s

s es Fiestn Fitness Fitn

pe Res

ili ty ility ibib ex ex ibili FlFl Flex

me

Wo

n, Me

For

Arts

l rtia

Ma

Fitn

ec Resp

l Art rtia Ma

ility xib Fle

ce nce fen DefenceDefe lfSelf-DeSe Self-

ncee e fiddeencenc Coonnfionfid C C

call us now on

83

9 D 1

LIS

AB

De Self-

ce fen

t

nce fide

Con

T.A

TAE

.G

AB

.B.

DO

ON-

KW

EST

LIS

HE

98 D 1

3

EST

AB

LIS

HE

9 D 1

83

dr Chil

en

M

TAE

LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING SO LUTIONS

3

ess Fitn

B.

983 D 1 HE LIS 983 AB D 1 EST HE LIS AB

-DO

98 D 1

ty ibili

. . G B . DO . NT . A. G O DO .

A T .KW O ON- G . B TAEKW T . A . ON-D TAE KW EST

HE

Flex

phil.goulding@jamprint.co.uk ectt ect Respecsp Resp Re

.B.

ON

LIS

iti Trad

ren hild &C

HE

O KW

B.

G.

. .A

ess

ty ibili

Flex

AB

n me Wo

3

on-D

.G

KW

EST

o on-D

W

98 D 1

T.A

TAE

Kw Tae onal

e n, rM s Fo l Art rtia Ma

HE

nce fide Con

ect Resp

K TAE

D

LIS

e

3

EST

98 D 1

T

HE

fenc

DO

ON-

LIS

De

Self-

ect

D ON-

AB

nce fide Con

HE

AB

ce efen f-D

LIS

EST

Sel n dre Chil

AB

3 198

n& ct me Wo en, rM s Fo

.G

e Kw-Do al TaKwon-Do ition Taee Kwon al Ta Trad onal iti Tradition Trad

o on-D Kw Tae nal nnn

.G

KW

EST

.B.

TAE

T.A

TAE

B.

.

DO .B. O. GNKW N-DO T.A TAE KWO TAE o T.A

ditio Tra

jake.fortune@jamprint.co.uk

nce

Terms & Condit o (same age ions: Skate on-D group) Can Sessions are for only be used e Kw the same to book instore al Ta subjec value. t to availab ition ility.

Trad

EST

N WO K E A OT

en, rM s Fo l Art rtia Ma

ren ren hild hild &C en& C en om om ,W n e ,W n M e r Fo M rtsFor rts ial A art ial A Mrt Ma

nce ce dee nfifi d n Coo C n

n&

email jason.miles@jamprint.co.uk

ce

fide C on

me Wo

O N--DDO N O O W E KKW TTAAE

ce fen De ce Self- Defen Self-

ect Resp ect Resp

Contact us for details

fen De

Self-

ect Resp

Resp

DO ONKW TAE

ua

IT’S A BU Y GET ONE ONE FREE

n me Wo

re hild &C

n

en

Jan

n dre Chil

DO ONW K TAE O D ONW K TAE -DO

dr Chil

a comprehensive digital print service

ess Fitn ess Fitn

ty ibili ty Flex ibili Flex

ess

ess Fitn ty ibili

Flex

n, Me For rts ial A

n&

s ent l Ev 015 cia arch 2 Spe ry - M

Fitn

ty ibili

Flex

e Kw al Ta

O N-D

pect Res

ess Fitn

me

ility xib Fle

Wo

o on-D

e Kw al Ta ition Trad

o on-D o e Kw on-D al Ta e Kw ition al Ta Trad ition Trad

Now offering

o on-D

ition Trad

rt Ma

en, or M ts F l Ar

o on-D Kw Tae nal ditio Tra

rtia Ma

DO ONKW TAE

NEW FOR 2016

T.

A.

KW

LIS

HE

B.

ON

9 D 1

83

-DO

Reach your customers with a tried and tested method.

High quality leaflets printed and delivered door to door with our professional team.

01249 823950

28-30 Calne Business Centre, Harris Road, Portemarsh Industrial Estate, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9PT

C

Road Test

Jaguar XF New Jaguar models are like buses; you don’t get one for ages and then they all come at once.

Six months ago I tried out the BMW 3 Series beating XE, now I’m driving around in the all new XF which is determined to outdo not just the superlative 5 Series, but also the soon to be replaced Mercedes E Class and Audi’s popular A6. The XE drew a decisive line in the sand; can the XF stride over it?

When the last generation XF first appeared, it was a complete departure from any Jaguar saloon that had gone before. This one, though, is very much an evolution of the last model, visually clearly an XF. Even so, the styling is a revolution and this is a beautiful car.

It is sleek and curvaceous, sculpted and muscular – every inch a big cat. It retains the coupé-like roofline, rounded grill and edgy headlights, but the previously slightly clumsy rear is now beautifully rounded and reminiscent of the F Type.

The wheel arches swell out around the big alloys and the side detailing is subtle but effective. The big changes are beneath the skin. The body shell is made from exotic alloys and aluminium making the car 190kg lighter and far more rigid. Although the new model is fractionally shorter than before, it has a longer wheelbase and rear overhang which means more space in the back and a larger boot.

30

Inside it is all much as before; Jaguar has retained the trademark cylindrical gear selector and rotating air vents and there is leather and plush carpet as far as the eye can see. There’s less wood than there used to be but it’s still a very classy interior. The touch screen infotainment system is a big improvement with much sharper graphics. Most importantly, there’s plenty enough room for two full sized adults in the back.

Most XFs will be sold with Jaguar’s home grown Ingenium 2 litre diesel under the bonnet, available with either 161 or 178bhp. It’s a good unit, very economical and flexible but it’s a bit noisy at high revs and slightly sluggish compared to the XE. There’s nothing wrong with the 6 speed manual gearbox but the 8 speed auto is sublime, so that’s the one to go for. As luck would have it, the car I drove was a 3.0 litre V6 diesel and this engine is a revelation. The 296bhp power output is impressive but the 516ft-lb of torque is astronomical; the 60mph benchmark comes up in under 6 seconds and the midrange grunt is staggering, you can literally overtake anything at any speed on the

tiniest stretch of road. The V6 is also remarkably refined and can still manage better than 50mpg if you take it easy.

It takes a fast, twisty A road for the XF to really prove its worth. The ride is like a Rolls but the handling is more like a Lotus. The steering talks to you, turns in with a flick of the wrists and is as accurate as a sniper’s rifle. This car feels poised and in control at any speed in any bend. In fact, I’ll stick my neck out and say that it handles better than the 5 Series by a good margin.

The pundits are saying that the XF is expensive compared to its rivals. I don’t agree.

Right now it is the leader of the pack and, if you compare prices with similar spec 5 Series, they are virtually identical. Besides, it will depreciate less than any of the others. I just have one complaint; the V6 diesel transforms the XF but it is only available with the top of the range S trim level.

Effectively, you pay an £11k premium for a more powerful engine. Come on Jaguar, make it more affordable.

Kit Johnson Car as tested Jaguar XF S 3.0D RRP £49,275

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Do you live in a hard water area? you could benefit from a water softener. for a free home survey or quote please call 01672 521 123 or visit www.soft-options.net

We love... caring for your home Service | SaleS | repairS | filterS | purification | free Salt Delivery

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

31

Gardening

April in the Garden With the warmer and lighter days of April we are well and truly into the spring. Our gardens start to burst into life with plants growing at an increasingly fast rate. Although we have had one of the warmest winters on record it is still uplifting to think that summer is on its way and the work we do in our gardens now will be enjoyed with wonderful displays throughout the summer months ahead.

Unfortunately the rate at which weeds grow also speeds up. A thick layer of mulch on borders will help to stop perennial weeds growing – any stubborn weeds can be treated with an easy to apply weed killer like roundup, taking care not to spray nearby plants. Regularly weeding borders will gradually reduce the amount of weeds that grow back each year.

Keep an eye out for slugs and snails as they will also be raring to go and can destroy emerging plants overnight.

Treat areas with wildlife and pet friendly slug pellets. Spray roses with a suitable treatment for black spot and remove any leaves that look sickly.

Towards the end of April start to clear spring bedding as it fades to make room for summer displays. Don’t be tempted to plant summer bedding too soon as frosts are still possible until the second week of May. If you have a greenhouse, hanging baskets and pots can be planted up ready to take out into the garden when all danger of frost has passed. Remove faded blooms from spring bulbs but leave the rest of the plant to

32

die back naturally to allow the bulb to store energy for next year’s flowers. Prune early flowering shrubs like Forsythia, Daphne, Sarcococca and Chaenomeles. Plant some summer flowering bulbs such as Lilies, Gladioli and Dahlia in your borders, there are many varieties available in garden centres now and summer bulbs add a lovely splash of colour and are easy to grow.

Gaps in borders or new borders can planted with perennials, always try to plant in groups of three or more for greater impact and make sure colour and form are going to look good next to each other.

A low cost way of filling borders is to sow hardy annual seed.

Prepare the soil by digging over and raking. Sow seeds in colour drifts before covering with a fine thin layer of soil and watering in. Try to remove any weeds that sneak in to the mix to give seedlings the best chance. Plant out sweet peas sown earlier making sure they have something to climb up such as a bamboo wigwam or some trellis.

Perennials that have become congested or too big for their space can be split. Simply lift the plant, detach clumps from the outside and replant discarding the centre. All tall growing perennials will need staking and tying in as they grow to keep them growing upright and tidy and to prevent any damage during strong winds which can still occur

in April and May and there is nothing worse than seeing all your Delphiniums flattened.

Start to mow the lawn weekly and to tidy the appearance of you garden redefine the lawn with a sharp lawn edger.

Lawns can also be given a dose of lawn feed, weed and moss killer following manufacturers instructions.

Any paved or decked areas should be brushed over with a stiff broom and washed down to brighten them up and get rid of any algae that may have built up over the winter.

In the vegetable garden main crop potatoes can be planted in ground that has be dug over and enriched with organic matter. Vegetable seeds that be sown directly into prepared ground now include cabbage, cauliflower, brocolli, brussels, sweetcorn, courgettes, pumpkin, leeks along with salad crops like lettuce and spring onions. Also sow a variety of herbs to compliment your summer cooking. In the greenhouse sow tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers, these can be either grown on in the greenhouse or planted outside in late May. Keep an eye out for pests and treat early before the greenhouse becomes infested. Open windows on warm days before closing at night and shade young plants to prevent scorching.

Jill Blackwood

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

BAYDON MOWERS

Garden Machinery Specialist • All makes of new machines • Trade-ins taken • Collection and Delivery • Spare Parts • Servicing & Repairs Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm; Saturday 9am-1pm Easy to find us, Large car park, workshop and showroom

Farncombe Farm, Baydon Road, Lambourn RG17 7BN. 01488 71333 www.baydonmowers.co.uk

J.Turner Tree and Garden Services Felling Surgery Topping Pruning Hedge cutting Fruit trees Fencing Landscaping Grass management Planting Seeding Turfing Mowing Garden stonework Rubbish removed Logs/kindling & Chippings supplied

Simply the Best!

For Free Estimates & Advice Please Ring: Tel: 01672 521 445 or 07873 459 016

PARKER.YOUNG Painting and Decorating Decorative restoration Painting - all types ● Paint effects Wallpaper hanging Free estimates Written Guarantee Fully Insured

T: 01672 520605

M:07967 769403

info@parkeryoung.co.uk

NO JOB TOO SMALL NPTC Certified Family Business – Established since 1979

Registered Waste Carrier & Fully Insured.

www.jturnertreeandgarden.me.uk Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

33



 



 

         

  

 

 

 

Award Winning Pet Food & Accessories Shop Open: Mon to Sat 9am - 5pm 5 London Rd, Marlborough

01672 513 830 www.marlboroughpetshop.co.uk

34

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Ian Barnes

If you’re reading this, so are your customers....

Electrical Services & Testing

Electrician

Advertise in this space from only

Mob: 07747 414493 Tel: 01672 520147

£35 + VAT,

Sockets and Lighting Extensions and Rewires Fuseboard replacement Inspection, Testing and Certification Lighting design

and reach up to 8000 potential customers

Marlborough Hungerford Ramsbury Aldbourne

Issue 91 . November 2015 People Justin Cook Living Art

Features Christmas is Coming St Peter’s Press Club Ark Photo Comp

What’s On In and around Marlborough

Information Community groups Local Businesses

Further Information Telephone: 01793 791104 Email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Working Graphics Studio

litho print digital print van signs

banners & pop-ups graphic design Tel: 01672 515444

email:print-image@btconnect.com

www.printimage-marlborough.com n Roa d

To

T

PRINT & GRAPHICS STUDIO

KE N

NE

PARKING ET

KENN

ane rge L

Geo

ry To Salisbu

RIVER

NET

d erfor Hung

E R

Parade

EN RK

RIVE

IV

e

Wagon Yard

Londo

R

Th

Road

Marlborough

To Swindon

Street

New

Herd Street

To Hig h

Beautifully Hand Sewn Made to Measure Upholstery Service Telephone / Fax: 01672 541 263 Upham Farm, Upper Upham Aldbourne, Marlborough Wiltshire SN8 2LG Email: sewmuchmore@live.co.uk

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

35

Legal

The Gender Pay Gap It was International Women’s Day on March 8th, making it an apt time to take stock and subtly segue in that while gender inequalities in the workplace are vastly improved they remain an issue, but one that is, in part, being addressed.

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) provisional results for earnings in 2015 show a median pay gap of 19.2% between the genders, albeit that the pay gap for full-time work reached an all-time low (since the start of the survey in 1997) of 9.2%. There are, obviously, significant differences between genders pay, but, to quote Mark Twain, ‘facts are stubborn things, but statistics are pliable’ and the ONS point out that no single measure can deal with a complex issue like the pay gap, that the figures do not show difference in rates of pay in comparable jobs, and the figures are affected by the proportions of men and women in different occupations.

However, the Government are making an effort to address pay inequality, and in October 2016 the Equality Act (Gender Pay Gap Information) Regulations (‘the Regulations’) shall come into force. As currently drafted, and to the surprise of many commentators, the Regulations are looking rather stronger than first anticipated, and it currently requires all organisations with 250 or more employees to publish:1. The mean and median men and women’s pay calculations for whole workforce.

36

2. How many men and women there are in each quartile of pay in the workforce.

3. The pay report must be published on the employer’s website in an accessible manner, where it must remain for at least 3 years. The data is also to be provided to government.

4. Confirm mean bonus pay differences and the proportion of men and women who receive a bonus.

5. These figures are to be published annually each April and the employers are to sign a statement as to the accuracy of the data.

It is the government’s current intention to ‘name and shame’ notable culprits and they are reviewing whether civil or criminal penalties should be introduced. While such penal action remains an unknown, given that in unequal pay claims awards up to six years’ back pay can be made it is imperative that organisations address issues now.

Overall, while this is a positive step, there must be a note of caution. It is to be expected that some discriminatory unequal pay will be revealed by the Regulations, but not all of the gender pay gap is, or will be, due to unequal pay. The ONS were careful to caveat the data they produced, highlighting the complexity of gender pay data, and those minded may wish to read the ONS’s “Analysis of factors affecting earnings using Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings: 2015”, and the main problem with the Regulations, at least in the current form, is comparative data on the type of job does not have to be published, so limiting its usefulness, as we cannot easily tell if a female employee doing the same job at the same level is earning as much as a male comparator.

This flaw is somewhat strange given employees previously could use the statutory Equal Pay Questionnaire, which allowed them to make the employer answer questions regarding other employees doing equal work, or work of equal value, but this was repealed by the government in 2014 and replaced with an informal, unenforceable, process.

There now appears to be a void of good comparative data that would allow discrimination by way of pay to be best assessed. In this void, there are concerns that unions, employees and other interested persons, notably the media, shall seize upon the data, and reach incorrect conclusions causing a raft of equal pay claims to ensue. Some are suggesting that those organisations affected should have audits carried out to identify the true causes of any pay gap, and given the onus and potential consequences on organisations it seems likely the Regulations will be one of the most important changes in employment law for the next few years.

Alex Atkins DGR Law

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

Useful Telephone Numbers BT Fault Line

0800 800151 Citizen’s Advice Bureau

0844 375 2775 Electricity Emergencies 0800 072 7282 Environment Agency Pollution Hotline

0800 80 70 60 Gas Emergencies 0800 111999 Marlborough College

01672 892200 Marlborough Leisure Centre 01672 513161 Marlborough Parking Office 01672 511818 Marlborough Town Hall 01672 512487 Marlborough & District HA

01672 512163 National Rail Enquiries

08457 484950 NHS Direct

0845 46 47 Parentline

0808 800 2222 Quitline 0800 002200 Samaritans

08457 90 90 90 Water (Thames)

0845 920 0800 Water (Wessex)

0845 600 4600 Wiltshire Police

101

38

Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material in this publication, the editor can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors in either editorial or advertising content. Errors and omissions excepted.

Copyright All text, images and design are subject to copyright. Any unauthorised duplication is strictly prohibited.

To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

A new look for your old kitchen this Spring EST.

1999

®

Why replace when you can reface?

CALL IAN NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

• Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps

01793 213021

• Door swaps to full kitchens – tailored to your needs

dreamdoors.co.uk

• Free planning & design service

Visit our showroom: 108 High St, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU