Marlborough TOWN & COUNTRY
People
Helen Stokes Marlborough Passion Play
Local News Lifestyle St Michael's Ofsted success
Fiona's "She Shed"
PEOPLE | FEATURES | NEWS | WHAT’S ON | COMMUNITY INFORMATION
FREE Issue 103 . November 2016
Edit or’s Letter
Christmas is coming… I know some people don’t like to mention Christmas until at least December, whilst others have already done their shopping and wrapped it up! For most though, November is the month when you at least start thinking about Christmas shopping, and for retailers and others for whom Christmas is an important time of year, it’s the time when sales start to climb. There are lots of shopping opportunities in the area this year, on top of the retail stores – Christmas Fairs often offer the opportunity to help charities too – see page 10 for details of some of the best opportunities this year. Our interview this month is with Helen Stokes who is planning a Play on another important part of Jesus’ life – the Easter story – read all about her on pages 6/7. 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 December 16 issue is due by 7 November 2016. Cover Photo: Kate Wade, Wagon Yard Studios, London Road, Marlborough
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Christmas at The Merchant’s House Shop Friday 4 November is the day we are opening our Christmas room in the panelled chamber upstairs. We’ll have something for all the family and stunning decorations too. Our opening times: Mondays - Saturdays, 9.30am to 5pm, Sundays from 6 November 11am - 4.30pm. Late night Friday 18 November until 8pm We look forward to welcoming you and hope that you will be inspired by the wide variety of gifts on offer shopmanager@merchantshousetrust.co.uk 01672
511690 www.themerchantshouse.co.uk
Marlborough Christmas Fair
Saturday 26 November from 10am - 4pm Marlborough Town Hall Come along to our Christmas Fair with over 35 festive stalls and entertainment. From meeting Santa and his elves, to homemade Christmas decorations, choirs and bell-ringers there’s something for all the family.
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People
Helen Stokes Helen Stokes is a Drama Teacher, currently planning Marlborough’s first Passion Play for many years. She is married to Vincent, artist and former Head of Art at Marlborough College. They have three grown up children, Chloe 31, living in the US; Alexandra, 29, a TV Producer; and Will, 26, a musician and journalist How long have you been in Marlborough? We came here in 1992, when Vincent became Head of Art at Marlborough College. It was all a bit of a surprise really, as he hadn’t thought to apply for the job, someone put him forward for it. Before coming here we lived in Devon, which we also loved. Marlborough is a wonderful place to live. I love the countryside, and go running almost every day. We are also lucky to have a fabulous view across the downs to Rabley Wood from the back of our house – even though we’ve lived here for over 20 years we never take the view for granted. Marlborough is a lovely size – big enough to have lots of things going on, but small enough to not be impersonal. There is a great mix of people here too from all walks of life. Tell us about your drama teaching I have been a teacher for a long time, and taught all different ages of students from Primary through to Sixth Form, and at both State and Private schools. Currently I
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For anyone keen to act, we are holding auditions in November and all are welcome to come along. am teaching predominantly pupils aged 8-13yrs at St Francis School in Pewsey. I prepare children to take the LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts) qualifications, which I guess are the drama equivalent of grades in music. I have always enjoyed the imaginative quality of make believe and really enjoy seeing children use their imagination and creativity. I believe that drama is a very positive activity for all walks of life. I love teaching the naturally gifted students of course, but I also love teaching kids who are less self-assured and seeing them grow in confidence: it’s very rewarding. Creativity is important in any profession, and often
I feel arts subjects can be underrated. You are planning a Passion Play in Marlborough next Easter – what gave you that idea? A Passion Play tells the Easter story of Jesus, usually from around the Last Supper through to the Resurrection. It is usually an outdoor performance, and involves a large part of the community. There has been a resurgence of interest in Passion Plays over the past few years, as they are such a good opportunity to bring the community together for something that is a big part of our culture, whether you are a practising Christian or not. Locally, both Wroughton and Devizes have had performances in recent years,
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People with audiences of up to two thousand people. Since I left classroom teaching I have been keen to do this, and now just seems like the right time. We have got a great team of people together, and between us we have the expertise and experience to pull it off. For me it brings together three things that are really important to me: the Creative Arts, Community and my Christian Faith. What’s your vision for the play? I want it to be a very inclusive thing – so we will be focussing on simplicity over sophistication. We do have a professional actor lined up to play Jesus, but all the other parts will be taken by local people. There will be around 10-15 speaking parts with some substance, but nothing too onerous, plus others with a line or two. We will want lots of extras for crowd scenes – in fact we’re hoping that the audience at the play will come in costume (which doesn’t need to be too elaborate – a tea towel and a sheet with a hole in it will do!). We want lots of different parts of the community to be involved – churches and schools are already on board – but I also have visions of one of the sports clubs for example, dressing up as Roman Soldiers and doing a bit of crowd control – that sort of thing! As a community project it is really important that it is fun to be involved in, and although the story itself is harrowing in parts we’d like to focus on the joyous ending. Afterwards we
hope people will stay around for some food and drink and celebrations. I’m writing the script and it isn’t totally complete, so I don’t know exactly how long it will be, but probably around an hour and a half – we’ll start in the late afternoon. Are you still looking for people to get involved? Absolutely! Anyone who is interested in helping out in any capacity in front of or behind the scenes should contact me, I’d be happy to talk to them. We are particularly looking for someone who is good with sets. For anyone keen to act, we are holding auditions in November and all are welcome to come along. Is it going to cost a lot of money to put on, and how will it be funded? We think it will cost between £12-15,000 to put the play on. Even though we are keeping it as simple as possible, the sound system and other equipment will probably make up the bulk of it. As it is a community project, the play will be free to attend, so we are looking for sponsors to help us, and perhaps seeing what grants are available. We are confident the money can be found. Apart from the Passion Play, what do you enjoy in your spare time? I do a few things to do with my faith – such as monthly meetings with The Filling Station, which are basically
I feel very blessed to have the life I do.
Christian celebrations in a non-Church setting, designed to appeal to those who might find a traditional service too formal. I also do a “Coffee with God” meeting at The Mustard Seed café in Marlborough and help run a Home Group. Christians are just normal people – sometimes I think we can be seen as a bit miserable and preachy – but for me my relationship loving God and others includes all my creative capacity and fun and humour. As already mentioned I love running, and probably run six days out of seven – usually around 4 miles. Recently I’ve been reading stories to the Senior Citizens at the Jubilee Centre which is such fun! I’m in a great book club – our next book is Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee, which I must admit I’m struggling with because I’m worried it won’t live up to “To Kill a Mockingbird”, but we read all sorts – in the summer we did Anne of Green Gables and Little Women, which were interesting to revisit. I love gardening – but don’t get enough time. I enjoy visiting art galleries and National Trust properties with Vincent. And, of course seeing my children – Chloe’s in the US so we see her once or twice a year. The other two are in London so we get to see them more often. I feel very blessed to have the life I do. If you interested in finding out more about Marlborough’s Passion Play Saturday April 15th 2017, or would like to get involved in any way contact Helen at marlboroughpp2017@gmail.com
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Local News
A Charitable Christmas Christmas is often criticised as too commercialised, and perhaps sometimes it can be. However, it also offers charities the chance to raise funds and this year is no exception. The Christmas card sale at St Peter’s Church has an extra special card this year. Wiltshire Air Ambulance commissioned local artist Colin Palmer to create its card, and his picture of the ambulance above a snowy Marlborough High St really hits the spot. The cards are £4 for a pack of ten and also available at Great Bedwyn Post Office and the Enquiry Office at Marlborough Police Station. The Air Ambulance along with Swift Medics will benefit from the 10th Crafts for Christmas Fair at Marlborough Town Hall on the weekend of 19/20 November. There is no entry fee, rather a collection for the Mayor’s Charity. The following Saturday, 26 November, also at Marlborough Town Hall, Prospect Hospice are holding their first ever Christmas Fair with a great selection of gifts. Don’t forget the Lights switch on on Friday 18th, with both the Rotary Club and the Lions raising money for charitable causes. Finally, check out your local schools and halls as many of them will be holding Christmas Fairs to raise funds. Enjoy shopping!
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Actors wanted! You may have heard that Easter Saturday, April 15th 2017 is the date of the Marlborough Community Passion Play, a performance that will be in the open air in various locations at the eastern end of the town. This exciting project aims to involve as many people within the town and wider community as possible.
A professional actor to take the role of Jesus, but there will be many other opportunities for actors with and without experience to take to the stage. Many local children and adults will have important roles that won’t demand line learning. With one or two exceptions, most speaking parts will not involve an enormous learning commitment and we are now looking for people of all ages to play these roles. (Including: disciples; Pilate; High Priests; Mary: Martha.....) Auditions will be held in Marlborough during November. Could YOU be one of the actors?
Do you know someone who would be interested? Please email: Helen Stokes under the title ‘Auditions’ at
marlboroughpp2017@gmail.com
as soon as possible for further details.
Congratulations to Marlborough in Bloom Well done to everyone involved with this year’s Marlborough in Bloom, who won two cups, a trophy, four Outstanding It’s Your Neighbourhood Awards and a Silver Gilt for the main competition. The Lamb pub on the Parade won The Best Floral Display in the South West. The majority of people involved in making the project such a success are volunteers, so it’s a wonderful testament to what can be achieved by a community. Well done everybody! More info on page 13 as part of the Town Council News.
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‘CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS’ The Marlborough 10th Annual
Christmas Craft Fair MARLBOROUGH TOWN HALL
Saturday and Sunday 19 and 20 November 10am - 4pm Free Admission
Unique and unusual cras and gis for Christmas or the home. Collecon for the Mayor’s Charity
WEST COUNTRY FAIRS www.westcountrycraftfairs.co.uk Tel: 01749 677049
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The New Greyhound
More silverware for Marlborough in Bloom At the South West in Bloom awards ceremony on 6 October at the splendid Somerset County Cricket Ground in Taunton, representatives from Marlborough were repeatedly called up onto the stage to receive awards presented by Downton Abbey creator, Lord Julian Fellowes and his wife, Lady Emma Fellowes. The It’s Your Neighbourhood awards were handed out to voluntary groups from across the region who work hard all year round to improve their communities. An impressive 12 groups had entered from Marlborough with Stonebridge Wild River Reserve and Stonebridge Meadow, Marlborough Waterfront at Kennet Place, Marlborough Community Orchard and the Merchant’s House all achieving the very top level of award. Congratulations to all other entrants too – Stonebridge Allotments, Cooper’s Meadow, Plume of Feathers Garden, St Peter’s Church Garden, Manton Village, Old Hughenden Yard, River Park and Hillier’s Yard. More good news came in the main competition with Marlborough winning a Silver Gilt award and the town bringing home the South West Travel Association Cup. That wasn’t the only silverware, our Mayor was then up on stage again, this time on behalf of The Lamb in the Parade, to collect the Shaun Gregan cup for the best floral display
by a pub in the South West! Another special award went to Marlborough Waterfront (the fabulous garden at Kennet Place) named as the joint winner of the London and Manchester Trophy for the most outstanding environmental initiative. Congratulations go to all those who worked really hard towards the community entries and main competition. That’s the MiB committee headed up by Anne Crawley, businesses, schools, the Town Council’s Grounds Team, shops and all those volunteers who turn out in all weathers to help put Marlborough on the map.
We will remember them
This year’s Remembrance Parade will take place on Sunday, 13 November with a road closure to ensure everyone is safe. This will affect the High Street, Herd Street, Barn Street, New Road and Kingsbury Street from its junction with Silverless Street. There will be a diversion along George Lane all between 10am -1130am. The Town Mayor will inspect the 4th Military Intelligence Battalion at 10.30am ahead of the start of the Parade which will be led by the Phoenix Brass Band onto the War Memorial at New Road where wreaths will be laid to pay respects to those who have lost their lives in conflict.
Christmas Lights Switch-on
This year’s event will be on Friday, 18 November. There’ll be a Christmas market running throughout the day and into the evening, children’s fairground rides, stage performances from choral and dance groups and Santa will again be in town in his grotto at the Town Hall from 3pm – 8pm. (Book your visit with him at
www.rotarysanta2016.eventbrite.co.uk)
Marlborough’s Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year will be announced at the Switch-on itself with the countdown at 7pm.
Public Toilets – Have Your Say!
As mentioned, in the September Town and Country, Town Councillors would like your feedback on proposals to refurbish the George Lane toilets using a public works loan. There’s still time to respond to the consultation which is open until 4th November 2016. Details are at www.marlboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
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
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Local News
Ofsted success for St Michael’s Primary Everyone involved with St Michael’s Primary school in Aldbourne is celebrating the news that the school has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Only 7% of schools inspected nationally achieve this highest rating, and St Michaels’ scored outstanding in every category. Headteacher Judith Arkwright, said ‘I am absolutely delighted with our new outstanding status. It is a true reflection of the commitment, care and dedication of everyone involved in St Michael’s - the staff team, our volunteers, the governors and of course the children themselves. Our school is a very special place and I am proud to be the Headteacher.” Simon Knighton, Chair of Governors congratulated everyone involved with this excellent result ‘The school has a fantastic team and our children have been achieving excellent results over the last few years in a happy
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learning environment. We are proud of them and the way that everyone has been prepared to try out new ideas such as our daily runs and the Forest Schools initiative. This also impressed OFSTED on their recent inspection and I am very pleased that our school is now recognised as amongst the best in the country.’ The school operates an extensive and challenging forest school programme on site and has recently introduced a Playpod; a huge store of objects and materials to enhance pupils’ creative play at break times. In addition they have
pioneered the ‘run a mile every day’ ethos for Wiltshire (not including reception pupils). The children and their teachers love it; pupils are more ready to learn and parents report their children are sleeping better. To quote OFSTED, ‘the school provides a rich, broad diet of experiences both within and outside the school. This enables pupils to develop the skills and knowledge that will help them move confidently into each new phase of their education’. You can read the whole Ofsted report on the school website
stmichaelsaldbourne.co.uk
Congratulations St Michael’s!
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Lifestyle
A Space Of My Own One of my favourite film scenes is of Keira Knightly as Elizabeth Bennett, declaring her love for Mr Darcy to her father, played by the delightful Donald Southerland. She goes into her father’s study for the meeting and I have coveted that space for some time. Mr Bennett had his own room bathed in dappled light from the trees outside and pile upon pile of books and papers arranged just how he wanted them. Throughout my life, when I reflect, I have always striven for my own little space. As a child, growing up in Suffolk, I would love to take my candlewick bedspread into the back garden and make a tent. My sister and I would spend hours in there playing Bedknobs and Broomsticks or The Famous Five. We were then lucky to move to Berkshire to a house with a very large garden including a shed and a rhododendron bush. We made a den in the bush and would hide away for hours. Then, as time went on, the shed was given over to us and we started to make it a little home away from home including Robinson Crusoe style mud pies and a little library with a date stamp for our books. Friends would come around and we would often camp in the shed overnight terrifying each other with ghostly tales whilst tucking into a midnight feast of Parma Violets and Skips crisps. Open plan working is de rigeur and has many benefits but boy oh boy, I missed my walls when I first moved out of an office. I missed my door and the ability to shut off and immerse myself in my thoughts with my mess being my very own, self contained mess. Whilst I have embraced open plan working, I have always
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hankered for the ““good old days”. Last year our garden shed gave up the ghost. For some long time it had looked like the leaning shed of Burbage, ready to topple onto the long grown out of children’s playhouse. They had to go. We thought long and hard and settled on a summer house. When it arrived however, I became “shed-zilla”. I had to have that space – for me. The boys had the garage and a lean to for their junk and sporting equipment and my daughter was very happy with her room. Here, I thought, we could have something beautiful or, more importantly, I could have something beautiful. Initially, the shed had to “weather” for several months and so autumn turned to winter, so the hollow shell of a summer house sat empty in the garden. In the evenings I would dream of what to do and created a “looks” board on Pinterest showing wonderful shed conversions, desperate to start on my own project. It was amazing to see some of the constructions that people had in their gardens including hugely expensive media rooms akin to small cinemas and games rooms with full on pool or snooker tables. My shed, however, is a modest affair. Spring came and finally my shed, now know as the “She shed” emerged like a butterfly.
It was painted, insulated and the electricity supply was connected. I bought and restored furniture and filled the space with my treasures collected over the years and, of course, the obligatory fairy lights and bunting. The she shed is now a wonderful place in which to work in peace and quiet with just the sound of the birds and maybe the radio. It is warm and cosy and we have even put a small sofa in. Oh, how I wish it was a little sofa bed and we could camp out and have a midnight feast. That would simply be the cherry on the cake. On a Friday evening, my Husband and I have taken to having a small G and T in the she shed whilst we reflect on the week. Time almost stands still as we step off life’s treadmill and cherish those moments of quality time together. I’d like to think that when my daughter finds her Mr Darcy in years to come, we can sit, in my timeless space and plan her happy future. 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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What’s On
What’s On November 2016 Marlborough Onscreen Events King Lear Date: Thursday 3 November 7pm, doors open 6.30pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Royal Shakespeare Company Production of King Lear. Recorded at Stratford upon Avon. At time of going to press not yet confirmed. Check www.kvat.co.uk or call 07771 704253
The Danish Girl (15) Date: Friday 6 November , 7.30pm for 8pm Venue: Ramsbury Memorial Hall Based on the book by David Ebershoff, The Danish Girl is the remarkable love story inspired by the lives of Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener’s marriage and work evolve as they navigate Lili’s groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer. Stars: Eddie Redmayne, Alicia Vikander and Amber Heard Directed by Academy Award winner Tom Hooper Tickets £4 from Ramsbury Post Office until 1pm on film day or £4.50 on the door
Marlborough College Concert Series Band of the Grenadier Guards Date: Sunday 6 November, 7.30pm Venue: Marlborough College Memorial Hall
St Francis Christmas Fair Date: November 17, 11am-6pm Venue: St Francis School, Pewsey
For many people this concert on Sunday 6 November will be the highlight of the 2016/17 season. The visit of the Band of the Grenadier Guards, on the Sunday nearest to Remembrance Day, on the 100th anniversary year of the Battle of the Somme, makes it a unique event. Tickets are now available and can be obtained from the Box Office on 01672 892566 or online at
Marlborough History Society Date: Thursday 17th November at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough
www.marlboroughconcertseries.org
Charity Concert Date: Saturday 12th November at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough Chippenham Strings Orchestra plays a mixed programme to suit all tastes in aid of Swift Medics - see church noticeboard for details.
40 stalls, all day café, charity raffle. £2.50 entry, children free
“Lions led by Donkeys? the British Army at War 19141916” - a lecture by David Du Croz, formerly Head of History at Marlborough College.
Christmas Lights Switch On Date: Friday 18 November Venue: Marlborough Town Hall and High Street Christmas Market 10am – 8pm, Children’s rides 5pm onwards, Meet Father Christmas and more. More details at www.marlborough-tc.gov.uk
Firework Night BBQ and Disco Date: Friday 4 November, 8pm (gates open 7pm) Venue: Marlborough Town Football Club Tickets £4 adults, £2 children and OAPs, £10 family (2 adults 2 children)
The Danish Girl
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What’s On Eye in the Sky (15) Date: Friday 18 November , 7.30pm for 8pm Venue: Ramsbury Memorial Hall London-based military intelligence officer is remotely commanding a top-secret drone operation to capture a group of dangerous terrorists from their safe house in Nairobi. The mission suddenly escalates from a “capture” to a “kill” operation as he realises that the terrorists are about to embark on a deadly suicide mission. With unforeseen collateral damage entering the equation, the impossible decision of when to strike gets passed up the “kill chain” of politicians and lawyers as the seconds tick down. Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman Tickets £4 from Ramsbury Post Office until 1pm on film day or £4.50 on the door.
Eye in the Sky
entry, collection for Mayor’s Charity 01749 677049
Brilliant Young Pianists at St Peter’s Church Date: Sunday 20th November at 7.30pm Venue: St Peter’s Church Marlborough Celebrated young Taiwanese pianist, An-Ting Chang, performs music by Gershwin, Copland, Saint-Saens, Rimsky-Korsakov and Mozart and lots more besides. Tickets £10 (£8 for members of St Peter’s Trust and Marlborough Brandt Group) in advance from Sound Knowledge and The White Horse Bookshop, or on the door.
Eye In The Sky (15) Date: Thursday 24 November, 7 for 7.30pm Venue: Marlborough Town Hall West Country Fairs present Crafts for Christmas Date: Sat 19 to Sun 20 Nov, 10am - 4pm Venue: Marlborough Town hall The 10th annual Christmas Craft Fair. Thousands of gifts, something for everyone. Free
‘Eye in the Sky’ stars Helen Mirren as Colonel Katherine Powell, a UK-based military officer in command of a top secret drone operation to capture terrorists in Kenya. Tickets £5 in advance or £6 on door, box office www.kvat.co.uk or available from White Horse Bookshop or Sound Knowledge Tel: 07771 704253
Prospect Hospice Christmas Fair Date: Saturday 26 November Venue: Marlborough Town Hall Over 35 festive stalls with something for everyone.
Wagon Yard Artists Christmas Art Fair Date: Sat 3 – Sun 4 December 10am - 4pm, Private View Fri 2, 6-9pm Venue: Wagon Yard Studio, Wagon Yard, SN8 1HL Buy unique gifts for Christmas www.wagonyardartists.co.uk
Further Afield Action for the River Kennet AGM Date: Monday 7 November, 7pm Venue: Hungerford Town Hall As well as a summary of this year’s work around the catchment we have exciting guest speakers talking about what river flies can tell us about the health of our rivers, and how rain gardens can keep our rivers flowing cleaner and better. Refreshments provided!
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Book your Christmas Party
Marlborough Golf Club Large & small groups, lunchtimes and evenings throughout the Christmas period Please call 01672 512147 or email rachael@marlboroughgolfclub.co.uk www.marlboroughgolfclub.co.uk
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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
Kennet Badminton Club A Badminton England Premier Club fielding seven teams in the Swindon and District League. The club offers friendly competitive club nights for experienced players and those keen to improve their standard of play and gain a wider range of skills. We play throughout the winter at St. John’s Academy, Marlborough. Club nights Monday evenings 7.30 – 9.30 pm, match nights Wednesday evenings 7.30 – 9.30 pm. For further information please visit the club website www.kennetbc.co.uk or contact the Kennet Badminton Club Secretary Mary Caudell 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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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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
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
Ian Barnes Electrical Services & Testing
Electrician Mob: 07747 414493 Tel: 01672 520147 Sockets and Lighting Extensions and Rewires Fuseboard replacement Inspection, Testing and Certification Lighting design
Marlborough Hungerford Ramsbury Aldbourne Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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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 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
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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
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Community Information 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 people. Open to men and women aged 55 and over.
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New members and beginners are most welcome. Sessions every Thursday, 10-11 am in Burbage Village Hall More details 01672 811711. 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 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,
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
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Please mention Marlborough Town & Country when responding to advertisements
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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
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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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Legal
Wishes and Wills The wishes of an author of a will are often expressed in a document accompanying a will, called a letter of wishes. This document can often provide useful guidance for the executors of the will as to how to distribute personal possessions. However, wishes have drawbacks, as highlighted in a High Court Case of last month in a ruling over a 502 piece collection of Ming Dynasty porcelain of the late Sir Michael Butler. The question being how the collection should be divided amongst his children, who were also his beneficiaries? Now, the matter was slightly muddied and different due to a bit of obscure law, but in essence the argument boiled down to wishes versus cold hard law, with some of the children arguing that Sir Michael had had a clear wish that his collection be kept together versus the other children arguing the collection should be divided. In giving
his ruling the judge noted that while wishes might “have some moral standing … they are of no legal significance”. Rather clear cut. A specific gift clause in a will is legally binding, the executor of a will has to distribute an estate in accordance with the will’s intentions. Wishes are not legally binding, they offer guidance. So, why not just place everything in a will? Well, practicality. Having a will that includes every item separately and to whom it is gifted is just too cumbersome in many situations, and unwieldy should changes be desired. By contrast, a letter of wishes can be drawn up and changed with ease. That said, it would be very wise if careful consideration were given to the items to be included in any letter of wishes. Are these items likely to cause dispute, what is the sentimental worth, or monetary value? The other useful element of letters of wishes is to do with testamentary capacity, i.e. the capacity of a person to make a will. Where a will has an element of controversy, or an element that someone decides to argue is controversial – then a
So, why not just place everything in a will? Well, practicality.
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letter of wishes can be vital. The most common example of this is where a sibling is left out of a will and this is challenged and the matter goes to court. In this scenario the judge will consider the letter of wishes to see if it provides evidence as to the deceased’s testamentary capacity. Whether the letter of wishes will help or hinder any such claim depends on the facts of each case, but for anyone who is considering an inclusion or omission that may cause issues it is well worth considering having a letter of wishes providing guidance and explanation to the executors. Alex Atkins DGR Law
To advertise please call 01793 791104 or email: aj@marlboroughtandc.co.uk
Supporting you and your Family
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Lifestyle
Logs – what you need to know We get many new enquiries from people who have had a log burner installed for the first time or have moved to a new home and a new fire. The advice we would give is buy the most suitable size logs for your particular fire and choose a log company that supplies well-seasoned fuel wood. Seasoned hardwood or softwood for a log burner is fine but hardwood species are generally denser than softwood species. Dense woods burn for longer than less dense woods, this means you will need fewer ‘top ups’ to keep a log stove burning. Ask what species the logs are, Ash, Sycamore, Oak, Cherry are all good, fruitwoods or hawthorn are a delight to burn if you can find them, a rarity these days. Not all hardwood logs produce the same heat, the calorific value varies between species. Different species, their felled diameter and the way they are stored all vary the time taken to season logs. Many fire suppliers now recommend kiln dried logs but these can be a very expensive option, often imported, and burn away quickly if the fire isn’t well managed. Well-seasoned logs from a reliable supplier are often very near the same moisture content as kiln dried, so make sure you ask for the estimated moisture content of the logs. Be sure to
ask if the logs come from imported timber or local woodland, and also ask where the logs are stored prior to sale to you. Store your logs out of the rain in an airy place, an outside open log store is ideal out of the prevailing wet weather. Bring your logs in 48 hours prior to burning to allow them to come up to room temperature and to allow exterior moisture to dry off. Be mindful that if the moisture level of the air is 90% then the exterior of your logs will be 90% and if it is freezing your logs will be too. Oh, and buy your logs as early in the season as possible, the later you order the chances are the summer processed stock will have already been sold. .Enjoy your fire! The Seasoned Timber Company
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The Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) is funded by Defra and the EU. The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD): Europe investing in rural areas
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Vet’s Column
Arthritis and Degenerative joint disease Dogs rely on their legs and joints to maintain mobility. They are naturally athletic animals and eventually this activity can take its toll. Many older dogs have arthritis but because they can not tell us they are in pain, it is often seen only as stiffness. Your dog may be reluctant to jump down from the car. He may limp at the beginning of a walk or show stiffness when getting out of his basket in the morning. Some dogs with arthritis are less interested in play and can be less tolerant towards children or other dogs. Licking or chewing at joints can also be a sign of pain. Although some wear and tear is inevitable, there are many products available that can slow down the progress of the disease and promote healing of the cartilage. Things you can do to help your dog: • Speak to your veterinary surgeon There are many products available to relieve painful joints. Your vet may prescribe NSAIDs (non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) which will reduce pain and stiffness. • Control weight An overweight dog puts a lot of extra strain on his joints. Weight reduction by increasing
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Massage and physiotherapy can warm up the muscles before and after exercise. exercise is not recommended with an arthritic dog so a calorie controlled diet should be fed. Once the excess weight has gone you should see a marked difference in your dog’s mobility.
• Alternative therapies Acupuncture can have a pain relieving effect. It also has a beneficial effect on the immune system, increasing ability to fight disease and giving a whole body improvement. Hydrotherapy allows careful controlled swimming as a low impact form of exercise. It improves fitness and builds muscle mass which helps support joints.
• Gentle exercise Regular, gentle exercise will help maintain mobility, keep your dog from stiffening up and ensure he enjoys life. Avoid occasional energetic exercise or rough play which will simply cause pain afterwards. • Supplements Nutritional joint supplements can be given to help joint function. Your vet will recommend a suitable product.
Physiotherapy Massage and physiotherapy can warm up the muscles before and after exercise. There are a number of things that can be done to aid a dog with arthritis. Your veterinary surgeon or nurse can offer regular checks and advice to help you give your dog a greater quality of life. Drove Vets, Marlborough
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