Marlborough Town and Country August 17 by Marlborough Town and Country

Marlborough TOWN & COUNTRY

People

Jo Fielder Ridgeway Challenger

Local News Features The Flying Headteacher

Keeping your pet well Classic Cars review

PEOPLE | FEATURES | NEWS | WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON | COMMUNITY INFORMATION

FREE Issue 112 . August 2017

Edit or’s Letter Is it really?

A recent survey put Marlborough 9th on a list of most desirable places to shop. This surprised many people as it’s not exactly got the widest range or biggest names on the High St, although most would agree it provides a very pleasant shopping experience. The survey though was not measuring size of retail spend but quality of experience and the relevance of the High St to its audience. Hopefully, the fact that it was compiled by a firm of retail property advisors will not mean the High St is suddenly swamped with national chains, as we wouldn’t want to spoil the very thing that put it near the top of the list – it’s individuality and mix of independent and national stores. Our interviewee this month lives outside the Marlborough area (near Hungerford), but has links to the area through her mum Val Compton (who provided this month’s cover photo). Jo recently completed the Ridgeway Trail in seven days – an accomplishment for anyone, never mind someone who has MS which Jo does. In the process she is aiming to raise £10k for charity and is not far away from her target. One of the best parts of my job is meeting interesting people, Jo is inspirational – I hope you enjoy reading her story and might consider helping her reach her total. Have a good 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 September17 issue is due by 7 August 2017.

Front Cover Marlborough Waterfront Garden, Kennet Place taken by Val Compton. An award-winning community garden in the heart of Marlborough.

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People

Jo Fielder Jo Fielder recently completed a personal challenge of walking the Ridgeway trail in seven days, despite her MonSter (Multiple Sclerosis). She lives with her husband Jake and dog Roo in Shefford Woodlands. Tell us about yourself I grew up in a village between Reading and Newbury, and although our family weren’t farmers, we had a lot of friends who were. I’ve always ridden horses, and for a while worked with them. Although I love horses, it wasn’t very well paying so I left to pursue another career. I worked for an Estate Agent for a while, though became disillusioned with it. Agency wasn’t the career for me. We were living in a rented cottage on a farm at the time, and my eye was caught by the unused barn on the side of a busy road. I approached the farmer, who was looking to diversify, with the idea of opening a farm shop. Around 15 years ago the concept of selling local produce was fairly new, and not that common. The farmer agreed to lease the barn to me and I put all my money into converting the barn and stocking it with produce.

Jake and I also enjoy spending time with our friends who are a constant source of support, company and great humour. We are incredibly lucky to have such a great support network. It’s vital when dealing with the rollercoaster that is MS.

The shop was a success straight away, it’s concept of only selling produce made or grown within a 30 mile radius being one people really liked. It was a huge learning curve for me – I had never done anything like that before. After a year, I realised I must be doing something wrong as despite goods flying off the shelves, I still couldn’t afford to pay myself! After some advice on the complexities of retail finances including the difference between margin and mark up, a few adjustments were made and things vastly improved.

those “2 years ago you resigned from your career due to a diagnosis of MS” posts. (Thanks, Facebook!). It prompted me to write a very long post about what I had learned in those two years, including the piece of advice I wish someone had given me –You are now registered disabled and that in itself is wholly life changing. Think very carefully before resigning your career – finding work with MS is extremely challenging!

After a few ups and downs, the shop was doing so well I wanted to expand, and started looking for an investor. Co-incidentally, the owners of Cobbs Farm Shop were looking to expand also, I met with them, and to cut a long story short they bought the business and me with it. Things were going amazingly well; I had a senior management position running three very successful farm shops; all was well with the world. And that is when Multiple Sclerosis came into my life. Its first intrusion felt like it was whacking me round the head with a blunt instrument during a business meeting. It’s been three years since then, and it has been a challenge to say the least. You write a blog about your life with MS, what made you start that? Facebook rather kindly popped up with one of

To my surprise the post went viral with 2,500 likes, over 1000 shares and hundreds of comments. People seemed to like it, and many said, “You should start a blog”, so I did! Once I started it I couldn’t stop – I find it quite therapeutic, and I hope others find it helpful. It’s got around 400 followers. Although I don’t want to be defined by the fact I have MS, I’m keen to raise awareness of the condition, as there seem to be a few misconceptions about it, for instance about three quarters of those diagnosed are women in their 20s and 30s. I post on the blog when the urge takes me – I’m not aiming to make a career out of it. What prompted you to do the Ridgeway Walk? I first had the idea at New Year – everyone around me was talking about their challenges

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People for the year ahead, and I felt like I had nothing in front of me. I needed a challenge, something to get me out of bed in the morning. Jake and I had always talked of doing the Ridgeway, so it made sense to do it as a fundraiser. (It made sense to me, everyone else thought I was completely mad!) Once they realised I was serious, I got a lot of support from Jake, friends, family and my neurologist and MS nurses. Although I did a lot of training leading up to the walk, we had no idea whether my legs would stand up to it. We had a backup plan if they did give out – Jake was going to push me along the route in a wheelbarrow!

You christened your Ridgeway challenge “Me and my MonSter” You’ve got to have a sense of humour – I think of my MS as an annoying creature that likes to follow me around causing trouble. I have what’s called Relapsing Remitting MS, which is characterised by times of remission with few or no symptoms, punctuated by relapses which can be incredibly debilitating. With the monthly drug infusion I have, I tend to get flare ups, which aren’t as bad as a clinical relapse, but can still knock you sideways. You never know when you are going to have

one – for me the MonSter comparison is quite apt. I’m aiming to raise £10k for the MS Society and Lambourn Riding for the Disabled, so it made sense to use my MonSter to make my challenge stand out. I even had a great illustration of him done for me by some lovely people at a design agency I know. You completed your challenge successfully, how was it? It was hard work, but we made it! We had good weather, just missing the heat wave of 30 degrees plus. We didn’t have to resort to the wheelbarrow, thank goodness. Perhaps the hardest leg was the one where I rode instead of walked, but I loved it. We had amazing support from loads of people - including my mum Val Compton, who held the fort for us at home, so we didn’t have anything to worry about but the walk; the people at Lambourn RDA, lots of friends and also David Hemery, who did the first day with us, and who has been a great source of tips and advice. We also did a walk with Clare Balding, who is helping us publicising the challenge by featuring us on her Country Rambles show on Radio 4 in September. So far, with Gift Aid, we have raised £7,500 of our target, and I am continuing to take donations until the end of the year. How is work going for you now? It’s going well. I’d say you have to be creative to find fulfilling work – having MS closes a lot of doors to the world of “normal” employment. It’s taken me a while, and been incredibly frustrating, but I now have a couple of freelance contracts, both working with Coaching companies. I do Project Management for both of them.

What do you get up to in your spare time? I don’t get a lot of that! I am really enjoying getting back into horseriding with Lambourn RDA. It took me a long time to get in touch with them as I thought they just worked with children or those with severe physical disabilities. They’ve been amazing, and really understand MS, I love it. I love to walk (not just for mad challenges) and I have an abundance of amazing countryside on my doorstep that makes it a joy. We used to have a couple of Maran chickens that lived in an old shepherd’s hut in our garden. It was almost like having two more dogs as they used to follow me around – unfortunately they were the victim of a nasty fox attack. I’ll probably get some more in the future as they were great fun. Jake and I also enjoy spending time with our friends who are a constant source of support, company and great humour. We are incredibly lucky to have such a great support network. It’s vital when dealing with the rollercoaster that is MS. Ambitions for your next challenge? I’m planning to train with the RDA for a year, then I’d love to enter some regional/ national competitions in dressage and maybe showjumping. If that goes well, then who knows? Jo’s Ridgeway Challenge is raising money for the MS Society and the RDA. If you would like to donate go to www.mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/jofielder To read Jo’s blog visit www.jofielder.com - it’s both enlightening and entertaining.

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Local News

First ever Mela in Burbage The 2017 Burbage Gala provided an opportunity to stage the very first Burbage Mela which was held in the Village Hall on Saturday, 8 July. This event is thought to be first Mela to be held in a Wiltshire Village. The Mela was opened by local MP Claire Perry who commented “It was a pleasure to join everyone at the Burbage Mela on Saturday afternoon and enjoy a brilliant celebration of South Asian arts, culture and food. The Mela was part of Burbage Gala Week which ran from 1-8 July with many fantastic events taking place in the village. My thanks and best wishes go to everyone involved in organising this great community event.” The word “Mela” is derived from the ancient Sanskrit language and means a “gathering” or a “fair” and is a demonstration of South Asian arts, culture and food and its purpose it is to achieve greater community cohesion. The event included South Indian dancing by children from the Swindon Tamil Association, and Bollywood Dancing by children from community groups in Swindon. Other attractions included a Sari tying competition and a group performance by the audience led by Dorothy dancing to “Jai Ho” from the movie Slum Dog Millionaire . The later item had to be repeated again as the audience just loved the routine! There were several Stalls staffed by professionals who provided services featuring

Henna Painting, Sari Tying, Indian Beauty treatment and some excellent Indian Street Food freshly prepared and served by Mr and Mrs Bipen.

Success for the Flying Headteacher!

Nicola Coupe, Principal of Burbage Primary School, conquered her fear of heights to jump out of a plane at 15,000 feet. As previously reported Nicola’s jump is to raise money towards fitting out the school’s new classroom and developing the school grounds as an outside classroom including the creation of a butterflyfriendly wildlife area, fencing for the school’s chickens, vegetable and flower plots and a mud kitchen. The total amount needed is around £8500, and Nicola’s effort will go far towards achieving it. At 15,000ft,

Nicola, along with colleague Bev Thompson and parent Anita Campbell, did the highest skydive available in the UK including freefalling for 60 seconds.

Nicola is pleased to have conquered her fear and taken part in the jump. She said: “The experience was certainly unforgettable and it was a stunning day. The exit from the plane and freefall part was so unreal and terrifying that my brain couldn’t compute what was happening. I was way beyond challenge and well into my danger zone! Whilst I would absolutely NOT do it again, I did enjoy the parachute part and we could see all the way to the Isle of Wight, Southampton and Stonehenge. The best bit was the landing. By far.” Nicola has set up a fundraising page where people can donate to her cause, visit justgiving.com and search for Burbage Primary School.

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Stonebridge Get Involved

The Greyhound

Marlborough Puppetry Festival Celebrating Pelham Puppets

special guest, performing as well as ever, was the original Muffin the Mule, another puppet celebrating being in his eighth decade.

The weekend of 8/9 July was a special one when memories of Pelham Puppets were re-visited to celebrate the founding of the company in Marlborough by Bob Pelham in 1947. His toy making venture started in Silverless Street before moving to 1 & 2 Kingsbury Street, which was then known as Victoria House. As the business grew, it was relocated to larger premises in Elcot Lane and then onto a factory site in London Road which became its long term base until 1987. Pelham Puppets was the largest employer in the town and many local families still have connections, puppets and fond memories of the company.

The festival began with a Puppet Parade in the High Street headed up by the Phoenix Brass Band, followed by a giant Punch & Judy, an impressive dragon created by students from St John’s, a giant Merlin and lots of other puppets. The festival took place in venues throughout the High Street with exhibitions of Pelham’s early years at St Peter’s Church and The Merchant’s House. There was a free exhibition of various puppets together with shows throughout the weekend at the Town Hall and Priory Gardens. Another

Part of the weekend involved a Civic Service at St Mary’s Church attended by our Town Mayor and Town Councillors, Deputy High Sherriff, David Lewis, the Chairman of Wiltshire Council, Cllr. Mrs Allison Bucknell, Chair of the Area Board, Cllr David Sheppard and Mayors from across the county. The service included puppet performances and a presentation by David Leech, current owner of Pelham Puppets and all the congregation was invited back to the Town Hall for refreshments and to view the exhibition.

The weekend was sealed with a finale performed by the Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama, choreographed by Cheryl Heuston and danced by her talented young performers. Marlborough Town Council is now working towards erecting a blue plaque to commemorate Bob Pelham. Councillors feel that it is right that he is recognised for the important

part he played in Marlborough, designing and making puppets known and loved throughout the world. A real Made in Marlborough success story. The Town Council would like to thank David Leech who masterminded the festival and without whom this event could not have taken place. Our thanks and congratulations also go to the local Event Committee headed up by Amba Chawla and all her hardworking, committed volunteers, students at St John’s, The Rotary Club, our Special Constables, Wiltshire Council, The Merchants House and St Peter’s Trust, the Revd Canon Andrew Studdert-Kennedy and many more.

A gallery of photos from the event and a video of the Puppet Parade are available on the Town Council’s website at www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk

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

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Lifestyle

Love where you live It’s funny how many of my friends and colleagues were surprised that Marlborough was recently cited as one of the best places to shop. It’s one of those situations where you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. For me, Marlborough is a reminder of my childhood, most of which was spent growing up in the market towns of Bury St Edmunds and Wokingham. Wokingham was a very pretty market town full of character and surrounded by beautiful countryside, most of which has long since been built on, merging the town with Bracknell to one side and Reading to the other. Marlborough retains its charm and character in so many ways. As well as high street chain shops there are some lovely independents too, as well, of course, as the cafes and restaurants with plenty of choice. The effort put into making the environment pretty should also not be taken for granted. The hanging baskets and window displays are so creative and colourful. The wide high street and pretty historic buildings lend themselves to postcard images of the past, held up to one end by the town hall and the church at the other, with rolling hills and ancient forest to the side. OK, so we don’t have any department stores or convenience food outlets,

but do we really miss them? More’s the point, I bet we’d miss the shops if they went. How many of us still remember the pilgrimage after swimming lessons with our children to the Ducks toy shop on the high street with it’s twisty turny shelves and little hidden rooms of delights….and Woolworths… oh, how I miss Woolworths. We didn’t realise just how much it was part of us until it was gone. This year sees change for the Jazz festival too, with a more contained presence, the new angle being the Marlborough Music festival, hopefully a new attraction for all music lovers and a chance to spot some future talent. Who knows, maybe the birth place of the next Ed Sheran or Adele perhaps? Giffords circus is back soon too. I cannot wait for my yearly fix, particularly as, being a late arrival on the Instagram scene, I have been following the troupe since May on their adventures around the Cotswolds and even a foray into London. Tweedy the clown always makes me laugh whilst the glimpses of the costumes for the show look

stunning. My heart always quickens as I see the circus tent arrive on the common. I do implore you, if you haven’t been before, give it a go. It’s a magical few hours of absolute joy, talent, music and colour. A feast, literally for all of the senses. Weekends drift by in a sea of cricket tea preparation and support from the pitch side. This season in particular, I have had the joy of watching both my Husband and my son play, in some matches together. Time flies…my “little girl” has been away to her first festival and is eagerly anticipating a new phase in her life. The start of A levels and then into the big wide world. Exciting times. Nerve wracking too as we await the GCSE results, but would I change anything? Never 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.

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DON’T MISS THIS YEAR’S WANBOROUGH SUMMER SHOW

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Saturday 19th August

Tickets on the day only Adults £4 | Children & Seniors £2 On-site Parking £3 Free parking for blue badge holders Free Park & Ride from village pubs @wanbshow @Wanborough_show

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Church Meadow, Upper Wanborough Main events start from midday

M.A.D. Mountain Bike Stunt Team GameGoer Gun Dog Display Ferret Racing Petting Zoo Chippenham Morris Men Children’s Fun & Games Fun Fair “For Community & Local Heritage”

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What’s On

What’s On August 2017 Ensemble Plus Ultra Date: Tuesday 1 August, 8pm Venue: Marlborough College Chapel Early Music today described Ensemble Plus Ultra as ‘a crack squad of the finest British early music singers’. Their quest is the promotion of historically aware performances of liturgical marvels from the Renaissance. Tickets £15 from www.summerschool.co.uk,

01672 892388 or Sound Knowledge, Marlborough.

The Overtures Date: Friday 4 August, 8pm Venue: Ellis Theatre, Marlborough College To quote no other than Sir Elton John: ‘This band are amazing! They’re just the best band of their kind in the world.’ The Overtures present a faithful and dynamic tribute to pop’s greatest decade. You’ll hear every aspect of 60s music from the early Beatles and The Searchers through to the ‘surf’ sound of The Beach Boys, the rhythm and blues of The Rolling Stones to the folk rock of The Byrds and The Mamas and The Papas. As Sergeant Pepper says ‘a splendid time is guaranteed for all!’ Tickets £20 from www.summerschool.co.uk, 01672 892388 or Sound Knowledge, Marlborough.

Giffords Circus

Aldbourne Band Proms on the Green Date: Sunday 6 August, 4pm Venue: The Green, Aldbourne The perfect way to while away a Summer Sunday. Attendance free, with a collection for the band. Next date 9 September.

ARK Moth Night Date: Friday 11 August Venue: Stonebridge Meadow, Marlborough A chance to see moths up close and learn more about them. Wrap up warm, wellies and torch recommended. FREE to take part. Time confirmed

nearer the date see River Kennet Facebook page for updates. More info 01672 511028 or email anna@riverkennet.org

River Restoration and Conservation Days Date Saturday 12 and Friday 18 August Venue: Stonebridge Wild River Reserve, Marlborough Bored in the Summer Holidays? A day for teenagers, 13 – 19 years to learn river restoration and to care for the River Kennet. Run by Action for the River Kennet. Booking Essential – Call Anna on 01672 512700 or 07780381709

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What’s On Aldbourne Artists Date: Saturday 19th August 9am to 4pm Sunday 20th August 11am to 4pm Venue: Memorial Hall Aldbourne Fifteenth annual Exhibition, with over 20 village artists exhibiting in excess of 100 framed works in various mediums, also mounted work and cards. Admission £2 Profits to Memorial Hall.

Giffords Circus Dates: 24 August – 4 September, times vary Venue: Marlborough Common The circus rolls into town. “Any Port in a Storm” is themed around the Spanish Court in the 17th Century. A thrilling, candle-lit, international gymnastic show with dancing horses, a live band and of course the king of mis-rule Tweedy the clown. A Giffords storm is brewing. Tickets from £14 child, £24 adult Call 0845 459 7469

Crofton Beam Engines Dates: August 26 - 28 Venue: Crofton Pumping Station, Marlborough, SN8 3DW Come and visit the oldest working steam engines in the world still performing the job they were built to do! 200 years of history on your doorstep, situated in unspoiled countryside between Great Bedwyn and Marlborough. The Engines are next ‘in steam’ on the dates above and, with the ‘Engineman’s Rest Café, will be open from 10.30 to 4.30 each day. Please see our web site for opening times during non-steaming periods. www.croftonbeamengines.org

Further Afield:Pewsey Music Festival Date: Saturday 5 August Venue: Coopers Field , Pewsey A wide range of acts at this annual music festival. For full details see

www.pewseymusicfestival.org

Wanborough Summer Show Date: Saturday 19 August, from 12pm Venue: Church Meadow, Upper Wanborough, SN4 0BZ Children’s Show, stalls and games, Pig Roast, Horse and Dog Show, Flower and Produce Show, Beer Tent and Bar, Arena Events including the MAD Cycle Display team. www.wanboroughshow.org

Spoil Heap Date: Until 3 September Venue: Wiltshire Museum, 41 Long Street, Devizes, SN10 1NS During July and August both temporary exhibition spaces at the Wiltshire Museum will be used to display objects and artwork as part of the Vale of Pewsey Project led by the Archaeology Department at Reading University. Excavations at Marden Henge are now in their final year, and to celebrate this achievement, a group of art students from the university will be using our Art Gallery to exhibit the work they have created in response to the archaeology of the Henge and its surrounding landscape. More details at www.wiltshiremuseum.org. uk/events

ARK moth night

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Community Information

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 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 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 Badminton Club We are a friendly club fielding six teams in the Swindon and District Badminton League. We have accredited coaches, a competitive player base and a friendly social aspect. Club nights are held on Mondays from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm throughout the winter at St. John’s Academy, Marlborough. New members are welcome. For more information please visit www.kennetbc.co.uk or contact Kennet Badminton Club Secretary on 01672 515526 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

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01672 514581 07910 525376

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Community Information Marlborough Choral Society Rehearses on Monday 7.45 to 9.30pm in Christchurch, New Rd, Marlborough. New members welcome, for more information Tel 01793 812175. 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 Diane 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

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

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Community Information Pewsey Tennis Club A friendly club with first class facilities and coaching groups for all ages and abilities. Private coaching available. For more info please see our website pewseytennisclub.net or contact Martin Wright Head Coach 07855 887 568 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 general well-being. Open to

men and women. New members and beginners are most welcome. Sessions every Thursday, 10-11am and 11.30-12.30 in Burbage Village Hall More details contact Anne on 01249 814071 or email chi@shadesoft.net The Friends of Savernake Hospital and the Community – A local charity helping people with health-related issues both at Savernake Hospital and in the Marlborough Community Area by providing grants of up to GBP10,000. For information on applying for a grant or on becoming a volunteer at the Friends’ Shop at Savernake Hospital, visit the Friends’ website at www.friendsofsavernake.org or contact the Friends’ Chairman, Janet Louth, on 01672 513868. 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 please visit www.u3ainkennet.org.uk or email membershipsec@u3ainkennet.org.uk or call the Membership Secretary, Nick Swan, on 01672 519331. 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,

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Community Information Mildenhall Please contact Jonathan Heath on 01672 513738 e.mail: jonathan@samtosha.co.uk

call 07855 026083. Alternatively do look at our website at www.littledragons.org.

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

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

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

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

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Savernake 01672 870790 Marlborough 01672 519009

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*Promoted by Pets at Home Vet Group Limited, Epsom Avenue, Handforth SK9 3RN. Terms and conditions and exclusions apply. Package valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and only available at participating surgeries. Please see www.vets4pets.com/beststartinlife or ask in practice for further details. Terms may be amended at any time. Offer will expire on 6 August 2017. †Subject to availability and whilst stocks last. Alternative brands and bag sizes may be substituted at a local practice’s discretion. ** Terms, conditions and excesses apply and may be varied on renewal. Immediate Veterinary Cover (IVC) can be activated by the practice team for pets aged between 6 weeks and up to a year, following a health check. A 4 weeks’ free voucher can be activated by you (the pet owner) for all pets aged from 6 weeks of age and before their 10th birthday for cats, 8th birthday for dogs and 5th birthday for rabbits and some breeds of dog. Petplan is a trading name of Pet Plan Limited who administer the cover and Allianz Insurance plc who provide and underwrite the cover. Companion Care (Services) Limited and Vets4Pets Limited are Appointed Representatives of Pet Plan Limited. Companion Care (Services) Limited and Vets4Pets Limited are not part of the Allianz (UK) Group. ◊ Terms & Conditions and exclusions apply, please see voucher details. Voucher can only be used once for 25% off at Pets at Home and 50% off for a Full Groom only at the Groom Room and in one transaction.

Classic Cars

Ford Mustang Mk I

The Mustang is the fastest-selling car of all time, is hugely iconic and has remained in production in various guises for 53 years.

Not even the Porsche 911 can match that. It all started in 1964 with the Mark I and over the years lots of Mustangs have made their way over to the UK, but they have a surprisingly low profile in the classic car market. It’s about time more classic car enthusiasts opened their eyes to this all-American masterpiece. The Mustang was the successor to the wonderful Ford Thunderbird. Ford hoped that they might sell 90,000 of them in the first year; they actually sold over 1 million of them in the first 18 months. The Mustang was designed to a simple formula, a long bonnet, short boot and 2+2 seating. The recessed round headlights and wide “pony” grill are instantly recognisable, as is the side crease leading to a vent in front of the rear wheels. There were three body styles, the hardtop (basically a 2-door saloon), the convertible and the fastback (a coupé version of the hardtop). They all look great but the convertible is my personal favourite. The entry level model had a 2.8 litre straight 6 engine coupled to a 3-speed automatic but most cars had a muscular V8 under the bonnet. Early cars had a 4.7 litre engine with either 228bhp or the “HiPo” 275bhp performance version. In 1967 the Mustang had a minor redesign creating more room in the cabin and a longer bonnet capable of housing a 6.4 litre V8 producing a monstrous 340bhp. Many V8s had a manual 3 or 4-speed gearbox. This was the first muscle car and it spawned a generation of rivals from Dodge, Pontiac and Chevrolet. In 1969 there was a more serious redesign, making the Mustang wider, longer and a whole lot heavier. This was the era of the Mach 1, complete with bonnet scoop, flared wheel arches and a racing stripe. In the eyes of many purists, including myself, it was all downhill from there. So, what is the enduring appeal of the original Pony car? The styling is more than just pretty, it

is hugely evocative. The Mustang harks back to the golden era of the swinging 60s – James Bond rode in one in Goldfinger, Thunderball and Diamonds are Forever. Steve McQueen drove one in the best car chase of all time in the film Bullitt. Surely some of this magic must rub off on you. The handling of a Mustang is not great and the original drum brakes are borderline dangerous, but lighting up the back tyres as you power out of a slow corner is one of life’s great pleasures. And the noise created by that big V8 at full chat is truly awesome; who could resist all that? Which one to get then? If you can find a well sorted cabriolet at a sensible price, buy it. Otherwise, the fastback is preferable to the hardtop. You really need a V8 to fully appreciate the Mustang experience, preferably with a manual gearbox although the “four on the floor” is a bit of a rarity. Try to get a 1965-1968 model unless you really want the full hairy chested muscle car look. Other than that, happy hunting – there are plenty out there. Pricewise, Mustangs are on the up. You can pick up a tatty hardtop with sound mechanicals for around £12k. Decently restored ones go for between £20-25,000. Choosing the fastback model adds around £2000 to the price. Cabriolets are thinner on the ground and start at £30k, although you will need to pay a lot more for a truly mint example. Consider this though, the Mustang Mk1 was produced at the same time as the Jaguar E Type. It may be more brash and a bit less glamorous than its British rival but it is also half the price. Well worth a punt. Kit Johnson

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

Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements

Vet’s Column

Keeping your pet well as they age As cats and dogs get older, they become more prone to certain conditions, and they may appear well despite underlying disease. So, it is worthwhile taking them to your vet for routine ‘wellness’ examinations more frequently than you would a younger pet. It is easy to write-off changes in older pets as ‘just old age’. However, subtle changes can often be symptomatic of a disease that can be treated, for example inactivity may be associated with chronic pain or arthritis, bad breath and reduced appetite can be indicative of dental disease, increased thirst may be related to kidney disease, periods of confusion or disorientation can be indicative of cognitive decline, early morning stiffness may be due to arthritis, and increased appetite (specifically in cats) can be indicative of hyperthyroidism. Some of the diseases that ‘senior’ patients commonly experience are: • kidney disease • hyper-thyroidism • heart disease • liver disease • chronic pain and arthritis • cognitive decline • dental disease • cancer Many cats and dogs present on an annual basis for their vaccination booster, and they will always receive a general health check at the same time. However, this may still be too infrequent to allow early detection of problems- bringing your ‘senior’ cat or dog along to their vet for a routine ‘wellness’ examination every six months is preferable.

These more frequent visits are warranted because: • health changes can occur quickly- cats and dogs age more quickly than humans; • underlying diseases can be identified before they become symptomatic; • specific concerns that you may have can be addressed; • diet and routine care (such as flea treatment and worming) can be discussed; • weight loss or gain can be detected and addressed earlier. By detecting diseases earlier, they are often easier to manage, and this will minimise the impact on your pet’s quality-of-life. Earlier detection usually has the benefit of being less costly, and more successful, than treatment of a crisis that could have been averted. Sometimes a patient will only need a routine clinical examination at these ‘wellness’ checks. Others may benefit from urine or blood screening (for example, to check kidney function) or other tests such as blood pressure measurement. Each patient varies, depending on species and breed, but in general patients are considered as ‘senior’ from around 7-9 years of age. The specific requirements can be discussed with your vet and tailored to your pet. If you’re interested in regular health checks for your ‘senior’ pet, contact your vet, who will be more than happy to discuss the options with you. Drove Vets

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Drove, Your Very Local Vet

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Legal

Do you have parental responsibilit y or not? Many people assume that because they look after children either from a second marriage / partnership or residence order they automatically have the right to have a say in every aspect of the child’s live and upbringing. This is, in the eyes of the law, a misconception. Parental responsibility means all the duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law, parents have in relation to children. This includes not only day to day decisions (such as what the child should eat, what the child should wear and their everyday activities) but also long term decisions (such as education, health and religion).

and as such have an equal say in such matters as medical treatment and school choices.

All mothers have automatic parental responsibility and so do fathers who are married to the child’s mother at the time of its birth or whose name is on the child’s birth certificate. This right does not disappear if the parents divorce in the future.

Step-parents do not automatically gain parental responsibility. This can cause a great deal of stress and tension in a household as sometimes a step-parent makes a decision which the non-resident parent does not agree with and this can lead to arguments and friction.

Unfortunately here in the DGR Law Family department we often have to remind parties in a divorce who have children that even though the child or children now live most of the time with one parent for ease of attending school or staying in the family home both parents retain parental responsibility

Unmarried fathers whose name is not on the child’s birth certificate can enter into a Parental Responsibility Agreement with the child’s mother if she agrees or make an Application to court if she does not.

Decisions are made in the heat of the moment often when something is going wrong such as urgent medical treatment or GCSE subject decisions at parents evening. Step-parents can apply for a Parental Responsibility Order

Parental responsibility means all the duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law, parents have in relation to children.

through the courts as well as non-married parents, relatives of deceased parents and civil partners. The application can be made either with or without the consent of the parent who has parental responsibility if they are known or their whereabouts known. The person making the application must be related to the child. These applications often involve a Hearing in the Magistrates Court in front of 3 magistrates and they will ask questions of both parties. At DGR Law we prepare a statement on behalf of our Clients who can be either the Applicant for the Order or the Respondent who does not agree to the application. If you are in any doubt whether you have Parental Responsibility for your child or a child living with you and would like a chat about it please contact me for your free 30 mins consultation on 01672 511797.

Karen Salmon DGR Law 01672 511797 Karen@dgrlaw.co.uk

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

Supporting you and your Family

Family and Children Matters Employment Matters Conveyancing Personal Injury Litigation Wills and Probate Clinical Negligence Dispute Resolution

Angel House | 7 High Street (behind Seasalt) Open every Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm Free Initial Consultation Call in, Phone or Email

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to help you Marlborough 01672 511797 karen@dgrlaw.co.uk

Useful Telephone Numbers BT Fault Line Citizen’s Advice Bureau Electricity Emergencies Environment Agency Pollution Hotline Gas Emergencies Marlborough College Marlborough Leisure Centre Marlborough Parking Office Marlborough Town Hall Marlborough & District HA National Rail Enquiries NHS Direct Parentline Quitline Samaritans Water (Thames) Water (Wessex) Wiltshire Police

0800 800151 0844 375 2775 0800 072 7282

0800 80 70 60 0800 111999 01672 892200 01672 513161 01672 511818 01672 512487 01672 512163 08457 484950 0845 46 47 0808 800 2222 0800 002200 08457 90 90 90 0845 920 0800 0845 600 4600 101

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.

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