Salisbury Life - Issue 266

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 266 / FEBRUARY 2019 / £3

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN SALISBURY & WILTSHIRE

SEEING RED

VALENTINE GIFTS TO WOO AND WOW

CHAMPIONING THE CITY‘S CHAMPIONS SALISBURY’S LOCAL HERO AWARDS 2019

ISSUE 266 / FEBRUARY 2019 / BUSINESS AFFAIRS

LIVING ON THE VEG

GOING VEGAN AT COSY CLUB SALISBURY

A PERFECT MATCH EXPLORE AN ACE NEWTON TONEY HOME

COUPLES IN BUSINESS TOGETHER

© DECL AN SPREADBURY

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Why Salisbury is the place to fall in love (page 10); BELOW: Valentine gifts to win hearts (page 32)

L

ove is a many splendoured thing. It can be a wild night out, or a lazy night in.

It can be the buzz if you make them laugh, or the hug they give you when you cry. But for me, it would not be, in a million years, working with my other half. We can barely navigate our way around the ring roads of Wiltshire without the threat of a trial separation being muttered, let alone forge a path through the competitive world of business together. So it is with wonder and awe we share the stories of the couples who do just that, like our dynamic and stylish cover stars, Jason and Lisa Regent (page 40).

We also explore some of the most unusual and romantic places to spend Valentine’s Day on page 10. My own favourite is Old Sarum - there’s just something about that place that always catches my heart. Talking of hearts being squeezed, turn to page 20 for our pictorial round-up of the Local Hero Awards hosted by Spire FM, which was inspiring and emotional in equal measure. What an honour is has been to be media partners for this uplifting event, and look forward to sharing all the winners’ stories with you in our next issue.

COVER Jason and Lisa Regent photographed by Toby Bennett. Turn to page 40 for the full story

SARAH MOOLLA Follow us on Twitter @Salisbury Life Instagram @salisburylifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 3

Issue 266 / February 2019

cover feature

40 couples in business Meet the real-life couples

who are also real-life business partners

city special

10 romance Where to visit in Salisbury to make that

Valentine’s Day extra lovely

the arts

15 INTRO The latest exhibition at Salisbury Museum 16 WHAT’S ON Arts, gigs, festivals and family fun, it’s

time to update your diary

scene

20 local hero awards 2019 A photo round-up of

36

the inspiring event held at The Stones Hotels

shopping

20

31 intro A brighter buy with Illuminati Neon 32 ed’s choice Take it as red, we love these

Valentine’s Day gift suggestions

34 remarkable retail Teresa Wilkinson takes us

on a tour of her Grace Decorative store

Food

36 RESTAURANT Just vegging out and getting vegan at

Cosy Club Salisbury

Business

47 business insider News, views and interviews

from the region’s professionals

49 business Q&A Jenny Mears of Saum Physio

education

53 talking head Hitting the right note with Susie

Lamb, director of music at Salisbury Cathedral School

Property

54 showcase It’s love all at this Newton Toney home

travel

60 wales A trip to the Gower and a look around Cardiff

motoring

64 Mercedes Chris Bentley falls for the new Mercedes

X-Class V6

Regulars

6 Spotlight Leading light Olivia Colman comes

to Salisbury

66 salisbury lives Diamonds are definitely this girl’s

best friend

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Editor’s photo Chris Daw Contributors John Rose, Spencer Mulholland, Simon Ward, John Mather, Emma Dance and Elsie Chadwick Advertising Manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Production/Distribution Manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Production Manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production Designer Gemma Scrine gemma.scrine@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Salisbury Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

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spotlight Olivia is tipped for an Oscar for her role as Queen Anne in The Favourite

Mompesson House

DRAMA QuEEN A Salisbury Life insider recently spotted everybody’s favourite award-winning actress, Olivia Colman, dining at The Chapter House on St John’s Street. Our spy tells us, “She was a real honey.

So lovely to everyone, and she revealed she had been filming The Crown at Mompesson House.”

Olivia Colman, who has been tipped for an Oscar for her role as Queen Anne in the ‘punk Restoration romp’ film, The Favourite, plays Queen Elizabeth II in series three of Netflix’s royal biopic The Crown covering the monarch’s reign from 1964-76. In a recent interview Olivia admitted she was finding it more difficult to portray the reigning monarch than the role of Queen Anne. She said, “It could not be more different. I find the harder is Queen Elizabeth because everyone knows what she looks like, everyone knows what she sounds like, everyone has an opinion on whether the casting is right.”

It’s not the first time the Queen Anne townhouse, Mompesson House situated in the Close, has been a filming location, including in 1995, when it was the backdrop for Sense and Sensibility starring Kate Winslet and Emma Thompson.

For more: www.thechapterhouseuk.com / www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Salisbury’s Mompesson House is one of the locations for the new series of The Crown

Olivia as Queen Elizabeth II in the upcoming series, The Crown

Theatre 5 SOLDIERS now has a serving soldier as part of its cast, Alex Smith, right

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DANCE TROOPS

Wiltshire Creative has supported a major tour of the ground-breaking dance show 5 SOLDIERS, which celebrated its opening night at the Salisbury Arts Centre on 31 January. Rosie Kay of the eponymously named dance company which has staged the production, says, “The tour, which includes Denmark and the United States, will be presented in association with the British Army, and tells the story of five men and women serving on the front line, and deals with issues including equality and diversity.”

5 SOLDIERS also has a serving soldier has part of its cast. Alex Smith of the Welsh Cavalry, 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, who was a professional ballet dancer at Northern Ballet, when he decided to join the Army. Alex says, “When I first joined the Army I didn’t tell anyone I was a dancer but now they all know me, I’ve never had more support. We are a strong group of friends and when I told them about the show, they were like ‘fair game, go for it’. There are a lot of stereotypes around who can be a dancer and who dance is for, but I think 5 SOLDIERS presents a strong case that actually anyone can enjoy dance.”

For more: www.rosiekay.co.uk

Civic beauty

LIGHT UP OUR LIVES

Lighting the way

If you’ve wandering around Salisbury’s Market Place and Guildhall Square recently and, thought the council had forgotten to remove the Christmas lights around the trees, they’ve actually been left deliberately.

Councillor Jeremy Nettle explains, “The lights are so lovely in the trees it seemed a shame to take them down when the city can be so gloomy in the winter months after the festive period. We have decided to keep the lights in place to brighten up these areas until 15 March, hopefully in time for the arrival of spring.”

For more: www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk

Social media

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A loving, liking, reweeting and sharing round up of life in our beautiful city

Twitter @Salisbury Life

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© DECL AN SPREADBURY

FALLING IN LOVE IN SALISBURY

‘Love lift us up where we belong...’ A truly breathtaking view of the Cathedral

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From first date suggestions to anniversary celebrations, JOHN MATHER explores 10 romantic, quirky, and charming corners of our city

ROMANCE

© MARTIN COOK

1

Movie, art, drink, bite to eat, wedding… want to fit it all in on the fi rst date?

Salisbury Arts Centre offers up a diverse programme – music, dance, exhibitions, comedy – so you can test the waters to see what you have in common. While you might not actually get married that night, the awe-inspiring venue of the deconsecrated St Edmund’s Church means you can easily raise the subject without looking too desperate.

2

We have a lot of beautiful churches in Salisbury, including St Thomas’ Church, St Paul’s Church and St Martin’s, so if you’re really peachy keen, suggest a tour and pack your veil and bouquet in case it’s a sudden case of ‘I do!’

3

If ever there was a beating heart emblem to this glorious city, it is the 750-yearold Salisbury Cathedral. This is no stagnant, dusty monument to times past, the team here provide a wealth of life-enriching activities including free guides, tower tours, backstage access to the stonemasons and permanent and visiting art exhibitions. There can’t have been a person not won over by Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes which flew in just as Salisbury was experiencing its darkest hour last March, and spontaneously turned Salisbury into a City of Doves.

4

A military training ground might not be the most obvious place to go for a romantic walk, however this is Salisbury Plain we’re talking about, where the wild grasslands support many species of wildlife including rare butterfl ies. Plus the area has also seen the reintroduction of the county’s bird, the Great Bustard, which was previously classified as extinct. How’s that for an incredible story of dedication and commitment, thanks to the continued efforts of the Great Bustard Group.

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ROMANCE

5

Have you fallen for them? No, really.

Have you? Then make your way to Old Sarum Airfield where you can demonstrate this with thrill-seeking experiences such as a parachute jumps and light aircraft flying.

6

Take a gamble on love and get your pulse racing at Salisbury Racecourse.

There’s also entertainment, DJ nights and live music. We’re already eyeing up the evening races followed by The Best of Wham night in July. The sports ground has previous for matches made in heaven as Nikki and Jules Spicer of Vita Skin Spa explain on page 40, in our couples in business special.

7

Pack a picnic and keep it relaxed at Queen Elizabeth Gardens; a haven of peace in the centre of Salisbury with a great view of the water meadows as well as the Cathedral, along with a sensory garden and a shallow stretch of river to paddle in if the date is going really well.

8

9

Lost loves, lost villages. Nearly the same thing. Rediscover something incredible and go and visit the village of Imber on Salisbury Plain. It was evacuated by the army for use as a training ground, The residents were promised they would be allowed to return after the war however, this promise was not honoured and the ‘Lost Village’ has lain frozen in time ever since.

The military does allow access for a few days every year, but keep an eye on the website, www.imbervillage.co.uk, to find out when, and like love it can be tricky to find, as there is no postcode.

10

Yes Stonehenge rocks our world, but we’re going for Avebury as the prehistoric place for l’amour.

Here, because you are free to wander among the stones, you can really connect with history and take time to imagine what this monumental labour of love might have been like thousands of years ago. And within the stones is the actual living, breathing and beautiful village of Avebury.

For more: www.visitwiltshire.co.uk

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Michael Pendry’s exhibition at Salisbury Cathedral stole our hearts

Get up close and personal with the Avebury stones

© visit wiltshire

Take a punt on love, and make like you’re in Venice, or the romantic lead in Brideshead Revisited, with a chauffeured punting tour of the River Avon. As well as enchanting stories of Salisbury’s watery past, the voyage takes in Bishop’s Canonry, Walton Canonry, Salisbury Museum’s The King’s House and a view of Salisbury Cathedral from a completely different perspective.

Looking dishy at The Bell Inn

Treat them to taste of the Middle East at Baroushka

LOVE AT FIRST BITE

Looking for a more traditional Valentine’s evening, with a table for two? Here’s a few house specials...

The Mayfly in Stockbridge with its waterside terrace provides a superb setting for your date night, with leaping trout and swans gliding serenely by on the adjoining River Test. Try the sharing bar board complete with sausage roll, pork pie, pork scratchings, Scotch egg, apple sauce, Piccalilli, and fresh crusty bread. www.mayflyfullerton.co.uk Gin clubs, quiz nights and a warm welcome in the centre of the Market Square make The Ox Row Inn more than just your average city pub. It also happens to serve decent food thanks to head chef, Chris Castle and his talented team. Show them your playful side by ordering Venison haunch served with chocolate sauce. www.theoxrowinn.co.uk More than a pub, Old Ale and Coffee House is like a party to which we’re all invited with music events, quizzes, and a diverse and satisfying menu such as wild boar and sage sausage roll for the cheap dates and five-week, dry-aged Scottish rib-eye steak if you’re in for the long-haul. www.oldaleandcoffeehouse.com Light up their lives with a stay at The Chapter House

Old Ale and Coffee House adds a fun vibe to any night out

Let the stresses of the mundane melt away while you and your loved one find a haven of tranquility in the New Forest at The Bell Inn. Sumptuous rooms, private dining and picnic options, nearby golf, the exclusive owners of two 18-hole golf courses and of course a menu created by AA rosette-holder Mark Young. What’s not to love? www.bellinn-newforest.co.uk If this hotel and restaurant, originally built some 700 years ago, with its 17 boutique en-suite rooms, fluffy goose down duvets, Egyptian cotton linen, flatscreen TVs, and a la carte dining is good enough for the Oscar-worthy Olivia Colman, then The Chapter House is good enough for us. (Turn to page 6 for the full A-list story). www.thechapterhouseuk.com A winning combination of Lebanese, Moroccan, and Turkish cuisine, with a touch of Israeli and Egyptian in the mix, found in the heart of Salisbury makes Baroushka an exciting, exotic and different way to dine. Try a sharing mezze to enjoy the full range. www.baroushka.com

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the arts s n a p s h o t s o f SA L I S B U R Y ’ s c ult ur a l li f e

MOTHER OF PURL This fascinating image, taken in 1914, can currently be seen at Salisbury Museum as part of their current exhibition, Origins of Photography in Salisbury 1839 – 1919.

Curator of the collection, Dr Anthony Hamber, explains a little more: “We don;t know who the photographer was, but it shows the women of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild at their summer party in the Guildhall Chamber. They are contributing to the scheme ‘Knitting for Tommy – Keeping the Great Soldier Warm’.

It was an initiative to send woollen items such as socks, mittens, balaclavas, vests, and jumpers, to the frontline to help the men warm, and safe from trench foot.”

The Origins of Photography in Salisbury 1839 – 1919 can be seen until 4 May at Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

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What’s on 1 February – 8 March

See Simon Gudgeon’s work at Sculpture by the Lakes

EXHIBITIONS Until 16 February

ANELLO FLOW: AN EXHIBITION BY ALMUTH TEBBENHOFF This exhibition expands on the origins of Anello Flow, currently on display on the Wessex Plinth, and other work in this series, reflecting on Almuth’s fascination with the patterns made by water.

The Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

Until 23 February

VENUS IN THE LANDSCAPE This exhibition showcases the collection of Mirka Golden-Hann’s 365 ceramic female figures inspired by the Ice Age Venuses. The installation was made during 2018’s

Year of the Woman, as a study of the female. The intention for this installation is to later intern the individual figurines into landscapes between the UK and the Czech Republic. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk

Until 23 February

CALENDAR ARTISTS 2019 EXHIBITION 13 artists and creators, all of whom are exhibitors at Fisherton Mill, contributed a piece of their artwork to feature on the pages of this year’s gallery charity calendar. This collection will showcase a selection of these paintings, prints, illustrations, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery. Fisherton Mill; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

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Until 24 February

TUNGSTEN REQUIEM Michael Hulls’ installation, Tungsten Requiem is based around a tightly choreographed relationship of light as a living, pulsing material contained in halogen bulbs. Messums Wiltshire; www.messumswiltshire.com

Until 30 March

SIMON GUDGEON Simon Gudgeon’s timeless, abstracted avian and animal forms, can be seen in the stunning setting of Dorset’s Sculpture by The Lakes, many pieces of which are on permanent exhibition, along with the work of Julie Brunn, Guy Coombes, Andrew Denman, and Julie Ann Scott. Sculpture by the Lakes; www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk

Until 21 April 2019

MAKING CONNECTIONS: STONEHENGE IN ITS PREHISTORIC WORLD In partnership with the British Museum, this exhibition features stunning precious artefacts made between 4000BC and 800BC, from a jade axe to an elaborate gold neckpiece, and charts the changing relationships between the British Isles and Europe over the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.

Price with general admission.

Stonehenge; www.english-heritage.org.uk

Until 4 May

THE ORIGINS OF PHOTOGRAPHY IN SALISBURY 1839 – 1919 An exploration of the rise of amateur photography in

what’s on Salisbury starting around 1840s, and up to the end of World War I. The varied and absorbing images provide a fascinating look back at the development of the city. Turn to page 15 for more. Salisbury Museum; www.salisburymuseum.org.uk

Until 4 May

above: Superstar Dame Joan Collins gets frank and funny at the City Hall Salisbury on 21 February left: Clay is the celebrated medium in the latest Messums Wiltshire exhibition below: Margo Hayes in the short film Break On Through can be seen as part of The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour

Creative Wiltshire: A Celebration of Art in Wiltshire The aim of this exhibition is to continue to tell the story of Wiltshire’s creative community and showcase the best art this county has to offer, including the 1971 screenprint and collage by Joe Tilson, Let a Thousand Parks Bloom. The Salisbury Museum; www. salisburymuseum.org.uk

2 February – 3 March

MATERIAL EARTH: THE ABSTRACTED VESSEL Clay has a history as old as our own civilisation, but it is how contemporary artists are using this material in new and dynamic ways to create objects that go beyond a mere receptacle, that Messums is casting a spotlight on with a collection that features artists including Thiébaut Chagué and Stuart Allen. Messums Wiltshire; www.messumswiltshire.com

2 February – 3 March

PAINT: THE SEEN, THE UNSEEN & THE IMAGINED Featuring works by emerging and established artists, this showcase of contemporary European painting, with artists such as Rose Wylie, Raphael Barratt and Minyoung Choi, highlights a borderless narrative that explores figuration, spirituality, mystery, intuition and folklore. Messums Wiltshire; www.messumswiltshire.com

27 February – 6 April

THE NATURE OF IMAGINATION Leading British theatre and film costume designer, Clancy Steer, who has been working on period costume design for ballet, theatre and opera since the 1960s, opens up her private visionary landscape, iconic paintings and costume designs in this stunning new exhibition.

Salisbury Arts Centre; www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk

Theatre/ Dance /Film 9 February

HUNDRED WATT CLUB Prepare to be teased by the cream of the glittering UK burlesque scene, with riotous comedy, and incredible circus stunts in this charmingly old school, bawdy and risqué variety show. For 18+ only.

8pm, £22. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

15 February – 9 March

THE MIRROR CRACK’D This thrilling and dark new play, based on Agatha Christie's novel, and adapted by Rachel Wagstaff, explores how Miss Marple, played

by Susie Blake, copes with the changing times when a beautiful film star arrives in a sleepy English village bring a touch of Hollywood, and its forward-thinking ways with her. £27-£12. Salisbury Playhouse; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk

5 March

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR Follow the expeditions of some of today's most incredible adventurers, see amazing footage of adrenaline packed action sports and be inspired by thoughtprovoking pieces shot from the far flung corners of the globe.

Highlights include the story of 19-year-old Margo Hayes in the short film Break On Through, on her quest to become the first woman to ascend two of the most revered climbs in the world. 7.30pm, £13.75. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

8 March

THE BREADWINNER An animation set in 2001 Afghanistan. When her father is captured by the Taliban, a determined young girl disguises herself as a boy in order to provide for her family. 7.30pm, £8. Salisbury Arts Centre; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk

Music / Comedy 8 February

ALFIE MOORE: GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER In his latest stand-up tour show former Detective Sergeant Alfie Moore, and star of BBC Radio

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What’s on

4 comedy It’s A Fair Cop, blends humour, practical policing experience, and detailed knowledge of the law for an audience interactive journey through the art and science of murder investigation. 8pm, £12.50. Salisbury Playhouse; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk

9 February

THE THINKING DRINKERS The Thinking Drinkers are back on tour with a brand-new, hilarious, intoxicating bar-hop through history. Enjoy five free drinks as the award-winning experts take you from the symposiums of ancient Greece to the classic British boozer via a Wild West saloon, Victorian gin palace, and the secret speakeasy.

8pm, £20. Theatre Royal Winchester; www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

22 February

BILL BENHAM AND DAVID PRICE Enjoy a lunchtime concert with Bill Benham, violin, and David Price, piano, featuring Brahms’ Violin Sonata no.1, held in the College’s Butterfield chapel and followed by a light buffet lunch (included in the ticket price).

12.45pm, £12. Sarum College; www. sarum.ac.uk

1 March

SHAKIN STEVENS The platinum-selling entertainer and performer will be joined by his band to perform fan favourites, surprises and, of course, his muchloved hits including Oh Julie, Hot Dog and This Ole House. 7.30pm, £37. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

2 March

SETH LAKEMAN The charismatic singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner, takes time out from working with Robert Plant to showcase his ninth studio album The Well Worn Path.

Expect no-nonsense, organic, classic folk-rock with Lakeman’s trademark foot-stomping, fiddle bow-shredding and soaring vocals.

Organised by City Hall Salisbury.

7.30pm, £16-£34. Salisbury Cathedral; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

Family FUN 7 – 9 February

GIANTS OF SCIENCE Jokes, puppets and silly songs, combine to create a positive lecture on science, maybe no thanks to Howard Coggins, who admits he knows nothing about science or Stu Mcloughlin, who insists he knows even less. £13.50 The Salberg; www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk

20 February

CHILDREN’S BUSHCRAFT TASTER SESSIONS Fun crafting sessions in how to make a bow and arrow, and build a survival shelter at The Devenish, Salisbury. Maximum of 15 children per event. Booking essential. £5. Led by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust; www.wiltshirewildlife.org

22 February

PIPES AND LADDERS The Cathedral’s organ pipes currently under renovation, will be the inspiration for a new take on the traditional snakes and ladders game.

All activities are free, and suitable for ages 3-10 years, with parents requested to stay. Salisbury Cathedral; www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

other

13 February FINDING NERO (AND OTHER ROMAN EMPERORS) A whole new portrait of Roman Britain is discussed by Dr Miles Russell after recent research by Bournemouth University uncovered a large amount of marble and bronze statuary in Britannia, much of which appears to have depicted emperors or members of the imperial family. 6.30pm, £10. Salisbury Museum, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk 21 February

JOAN COLLINS – UNSCRIPTED Rescheduled from September due to Joan’s filming commitments with American Horror Story, the delightfully delicious and properly legendary Dame Joan shares her Hollywood stories and secrets from her incredible career. 7.30pm, £40.50-£47. City Hall Salisbury; www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk

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above: Salisbury Arts Centre is showing The Breadwinner on 8 March left: Artists, such as Esther Smith and her Washing Hens automata, fill the gallery space of Fisherton Mill below: Seth Lakeman brings his foot-stomping, folk rock sounds to Salisbury Cathedral

THE MAYFLY

COME CELEBRATE VALENTINES DAY WITH US! We are here to make your day special in every way.

Book early as our tables are going fast.

Why not call us and ask for our special menu.

The Mayfly is situated on the banks of the River Test. A beautiful setting for this romantic day.

Enjoy a spot by the river for that special moment.

The Ma yf l y, F ul l erton, Stock bri dge S O 2 0 6 A X 01264 860283 | m a yf l yf ul l erton . c o . u k Only 4 miles from Stockbridge

SCENE Ac ross SA L ISBU RY, o ne sh in d i g at a t im e

LOCAL HERO AWARDS 2019

Nominations for heroic community acts had been pouring in from Spire FM listeners and Salisbury Life readers throughout the year, with each story leaving judges in awe. The culmination of this was the 19th annual Local Hero awards, held at The Stones Hotel on 18 January, which allowed us the opportunity to celebrate and thank these incredible people.

The wonderful and inspiring evening of tears and laughter was hosted by Martin Starke and Henrietta Creasey from Spire FM, with more than 150 guests attending the gala dinner, including Salisbury MP John Glen and Chief Constable Kier Pritchard. Look out for our next issue on 15 March, featuring all the remarkable winners’ stories.

Photos by John Rose For more: www.spirefm.co.uk

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society

Dan Nichols and Steph Dodd

Ivan and Emma Packer

Alex Oram, Emma and Mike Draper

Parent/Guardian Award winner Carmen Crook presented by Maryam Calvert

Teacher Award winner Jez Howell

Jamie Purves, Backy Harris and Bexi Harris

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Yasmin Boudebza

Alison and Richard Goodman Claire, Ella and Lynda Guyatt

Adrian and Wendy Lucas

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Rob Beale

Neighbour Award winner John and Jenny Kitchen, Jenny pictured right

society

Hosts Martin Starke and Henrietta Creasey Bravery Award recipient Luke Ridley

Sarah Watts, Charlotte Mellor and Kelly Burgess

James and Lucy Tattingham Ashley, Anne and Matthew Davies

Child of Achievment winner Ella Taylor

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Ellie Smith

Lifetime Achievement Award winner Richard Goodman with Alison Goodman

Linda Cooper, Bob Baker, Terry Osborne, Stephen Abel, Debbie Gooch and David Bundy James Purves

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Claire Quantick and Mariana Crawford

society

Dan Jenkins

Charity Fundraiser Award presented to Wendy Lucas Volunteer Award given to Sergeant Laura-Leigh Baker

Hugh, Abby, Cameron and Alison McCourt Award for Special Recognition went to Salisbury Emergency Services and was presented to Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills and Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police Kier Pritchard

Carer Award winner Lucy Tattingham

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Lifesaver Award winner Abigail McCourt

Dan Nichols, Mariana Crawford, Claire Quantick, Jane Ingham, Michael Fox, Deborah Fox, Steph Dodd, Mathew Priest, Sarah Moolla and Caroline Bannock

© SPENCER MULHOLLAND

Mayor and Mayoress of Salisbury Mike Osment and Nikki Savage, with John Glen MP (centre)

Leigh Trevett and Zoe Cabill

Mayor of Salisbury Mike Osment

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Iain McKee, Sean McDermott, Kate Williams and Leona Bruce Daniela King and Yasmin Boudebza

society

David Bundy and Lynda Cooper

Sally Matton, Ben Lister, Natasha Coward, Ellie Abbott and David Matton

The ‘Smith England’ girls Sgt Laura-Leigh Baker and Alex Anderson

Jez and Lin Howell

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Bespoke Furniture, Antique Restoration & French Polishing See our new website @ www.nigelnortheast.co.uk 01980 862051 | nigel@nigelnortheast.co.uk fx Furniture Workshop, West Winterslow

pl

The largest collection of tiles in Salisbury

Opening hours

Mon: Fri 07.30 - 17.00 Sat: 09.00 - 17.00

www.salisburytilestore.net Salisbury Tile Store, Unit 2 Faraday Centre, Faraday Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7NR Also at: Unit 5, The Enterprise Centre, William Road, Nursteed, Devizes, SN10 3EW

01722 325306

info@salisburytilestore.net

...

Business Suits Suits Jackets Leather Jackets Trousers Jeans Skirts Dresses Curtains Zips Made to measure 1 HOUR SERVICE AVAILABLE

TAILORING ALTERATIONS FOR LADIES & GENTLEMEN

Military uniforms and medal ribbons altered Shirt and t-shirt ironing service

SAME DAY QUALITY SERVICE

PROFESSIONAL LEATHER REPAIRS

UNIT 4, THE MALTINGS, SALISBURY SP1 1BD 01722 322377

shopping live well, buy better

TREAT HER LIKE A QUEEN Put her name in lights with this punk beauty neon sign by Illuminati Neon. Queen In Residence uses English vintage flags and distressed antique-looking wood, juxtaposed with the urban handblown neon lettering spelling out what’s important. Other pieces on show by the artist, whose work is collected worldwide including by Jean Louis of Louis Vuitton, are a neon orange God Save The Queen, a multi-coloured 24 Hour Party People, and a Union-Jack London Calling.

The work of Illuminati Neon is available through Gallery 21 with prices starting from ÂŁ450; Gallery 21, 21 Queen Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 324000; www.gallery21.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 31

STERLING SILVER AND GARNET ENTWINE RING, £250 It’s from here to eternity with this beautiful ring From Elinor Cambray Jewellery Design, 75 New Street, Salisbury. tel: 07892 684676; www.elinorcambray.com

SCARLET FEVER

LOVE MOSCHINO T-SHIRT, £85 We like a man who who’s not afraid to show his feelings From Repertoire Salisbury, 7 Fish Row, Salisbury. tel: 01722 412666; www. repertoirefashion.co.uk

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with these well-red accessories

RED MOTHER OF PEARL NECKLACE, £57.95 Sustainable and ethical luxe jewellery to win your heart From Casa Fina, 62 High Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 326428; www.casafinasalisbury.co.uk

UNISA RED HEELED COWBOY BOOTS, £139.90 Love has just walked into our life and we’re head over heels…

Stockists Mine Boutique, 12 High Street, Shaftesbury. tel: 01747 850256; www.mine-boutique.co.uk

32 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SWEETHEART PLANT, £5 WITH MINI HANDMADE JESMONITE PLANTER, £8 Also known as the hoya-kerrii plant, it is both handsome and hardy From Botanic Tribe, Courtyard Barn, Fisherton Mill, 108 Fisherton Street, Salisbury. www.botanic-tribe.com

ED’S CHOICE MARGARET JOHNSON STRAWSILK GLASSWARE GLOW POTS, £27.50 Each one is hand made with love and delicately finished with precious metal leaf From Fisherton Mill, 108 Fisherton Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 500200; www.fishertonmill.co.uk

TORRES NATUREO RED ALCOHOL FREE 0.5%, FROM £5.82 This was the first de-alcoholised red wine in Spain, because not everyone wants beer goggles From Cambridge Wine Merchants Salisbury, 5 Winchester Street, Salisbury; tel: 01722 324486; www.cambridgewine.com

FLOWER WREATH, FROM £45 If you’re going to say it with flowers, say it LOUDLY, like you mean it From Kate Robinson Flowers, tel: 07906 580 361; www.katerobinsonflowers.co.uk

LIP BISCUITS, PRICES START FROM £3.50 Seal it with a cookie kiss or two From Juliet Stallwood, Unit 12 Chaldicott Barns, Semley Shaftesbury Dorset. tel: 07515 882030; www.julietstallwood.co.uk

QUM RUG, (1.67M X 1.07M) £1,650 They’ll be falling at your feet when this Persian beauty is unveiled From Bakhtiyar, The High Street, Stockbridge. tel: 01264 811033; www.bakhtiyar.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 33

remarkable retail

AMAZING GRACE From the financial markets to French markets, how Teresa Wilkinson left her modern job to pursue her love of the old, and set up GRACE DECORATIVE

By Sarah Moolla Photos by John Rose

R

ooting, rummaging, dreaming, and discovering antiques, knick-knacks and treasures around a French brocante–style market has to be one of the most delightful ways spend a lazy weekend morning. And now a charming space in the Chinns Court, Warminster is offering that opportunity.

In the genuine period mahogany pharmacy cabinets that line the walls, there’s antique ornaments, extraordinary trinkets, and contemporary jewellery; on upholstered Queen Anne-style high backed chairs perch weathered and much-loved rag dolls; there’s rails of exquisite good quality vintage clothes,

34 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

from floaty tea-dresses to heavy military coats. Look down and you’ll see Renaissanceinfluenced sculptures of Madonna and child of all shapes and sizes, look up and there’s glorious gilted-gold cherub chandeliers flying from the ceiling, and a vintage fairground wooden swan on a mezzanine balcony.

This carefully curated French-influenced treasure trove, which specialises in interiors sourcing high-end exquisite antique furniture, art, lighting and decorative items from mainly France, but also Italy, Sweden and the UK, has been put together by Teresa and David Wilkinson, who both have financial backgrounds – not quite the arty credentials

main image: Grace Decorative is bursting with treasures; below: Teresa Wilkinson set up her Warminster shop last June

clockwise from left: Many of Teresa’s finds are from French markets; stock ranges in price; every corner has something stunning to catch the eye; an original pharmacist’s cabinet stacked with goodies

“Glorious gilted-gold cherub chandeliers fly from the ceiling”

you might expect. Teresa explains, “I worked in London in investment management for 30 years, and David was based in the City, in financial services. Also though, and just as a hobby, when I was 18, I started trading in antique jewellery at a monthly fair in Essex.”

While continuing her high-powered career in institutional investment management, Teresa spent her free time sourcing original furniture and decorative items. As the years progressed, so did her passion for the world of antiques and curios, and she visited and traded at fairs and antique centres all over Britain. It seems almost inevitable that a venture such as

Grace Decorative would be born. Teresa says, “I always wanted to have a shop of my own filled with beautiful treasures. We would see things and know they could be sold for a fair price and be loved by others.” Teresa even bought the decorative silver antique till that graces her counter in a Somerton market in 2004, some 14 years before she set up her actual Warminster shop. This beauty is accompanied by another wonderful find, a genuine German 1930s cream phone.

Grace Decorative opened its doors in June last year. “Our very first sale was an antique French frame to a Tetbury antiques dealer

on the day we opened. And since then the response has continued to be wonderful.”

But Teresa admits there are a few items you might have to wrestle off her. “I just love the painted wooden, Italian 1920s mirror and matching marble-topped console. It’ll be hard to say goodbye when the time comes.” However we suspect it won’t be long before Teresa unearths some other adorable adornment to take its place. n For more: Grace Decorative, 9 Chinns Court, Market Place, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9AN; tel: 01985 213208; www.gracedecorative.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 35

COSY CLUB SALISBURY Sarah Moolla may object to the term Veganuary, but is more than happy to embrace the meat-free mantra at this cosy Salisbury favourite

Y

ou know when someone says ‘Don’t look’ and you look. When someone says ‘It’s Stoptober’ and you think ‘Uh oh. Now I’m really going to have to drink myself silly.” And in Movember, I deliberately shave my upper lip in defiance (and I definitely won’t be sponsoring anybody who grows a ‘comedy’ moustache). Maybe it’s the nanny state I object to, and therefore childishly rebel. Or maybe I’m a victim of reverse psychology, but when I first heard the term Veganuary, I put down my cheese roll and immediately fried up some bacon to go with it. It also gets my goat that it’s the ugly mashing of a month with someone else’s principles to become an instruction of how I should behave for four weeks. It’s my month too, and it is called January.

However when I hear the one of the loveliest and grandest haunts in the city, Cosy Club Salisbury, has a special Veganuary menu, I’m there quicker than you

36 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

can say Benedict Cumberbatch’s plant-based diet.

As we’re about to veg out in this magnificent Grade II listed former arts college with a showstopper of a mezzanine level, it is cynically noted the taxidermy, leather couches, and hunting lodge vibe might be slightly at odds for a very strict vegan. However it would seem a lot of it is faux, we learn the stuffed heads of those noble animals have been rescued from the tip, and neither of us are even vegetarian anyway, so let’s not be pretend to be sanctimonious hypocrites.

The menu is packed, unpretentious, and all looks positively delicious. From hearty, carb fillers, fit for a champion boxer and vegan like David Hayes, including the big vegan brunch with falafel, potato rosti, sourdough toast, and the creamy leek tart topped with roasted butternut squash, walnuts, sautéed mushrooms, and crushed new potatoes. There are also plenty of Gwyneth Paltrow-style options for the health-conscious such as the super food bowl of avocado and hummus with

restaurant

black quinoa, coconut and coriander rice, edamame beans, lovage pesto, lemony kale, heirloom tomatoes, soy and ginger cucumber, pickled red cabbage, coriander, pomegranate and toasted seeds. And, there’s lots in the middle of these two foodie groups, including tapas-style little plates.

My Thai spicy quinoa burger with edamame beans, pak choi, wood-roasted peppers, coconut sauce with sweet chilli jam, in a sourdough bun, is firm to the bite, like a good burger should be, and packed with spice, flavour, and texture. The dressed red cabbage slaw adds a layer of fresh crunch and the generous side order of seasoned fries adds to the illusion of kicking back with a dirty burger.

The falafel and hummus sandwich is elevated above the status of the poor man’s kebab with the help of the carrot tapenade, wild rocket, and a slather of tangy, lemony sumac in toasted puccia bread.

The only slight disappointment is the shakshuka, a Middle Eastern tomato and red pepper dish which is normally served with eggs, but here comes with cubes of roasted tofu. It’s a little ‘Heinz tomato soup’ bland and nothing a tad more cumin, a few pinches of paprika, and a sprig or two of coriander couldn’t have fixed. But this is soon forgotten with the arrival of the chocolate and orange torte with raspberry sauce. It may be the only vegan pudding choice on the menu, but it is also the best chocolate and orange torte I have ever had in my life. It’s as if a Terry’s Chocolate Orange has been reinvented into a fudgey, zesty, delicious dessert.

If the arguments of swerving meat and dairy because of global-warming, obesity, and animal welfare don’t win you over, let the Cosy Club Salisbury’s varied and tempting veggie menu help sway you. All we are saying is give peas a chance. n

“All we are saying is give peas a chance”

Dining details The Cosy Club Salisbury, College Chambers, 49 New Street, Salisbury SP1 2PH, tel: 01722 334824; www.cosyclub.co.uk Opening hours Monday – Wednesdays 9am – 11pm, Thursday – Saturdays 9am – 11:30pm, Sundays 9am – 11pm Type of food served Menus veer happily from brunches and light salads to comfort food classics, from fine coffees and smoothies to some serious let’s-get-this-party-started cocktails Covers 100 in restaurant Outdoor space A terrace garden for dining Specialities / recommendations Separate vegan and gluten-free menus Prices Mains cost between £9 - £19, desserts cost between £6 - £10 Disability access Street level access to ground floor Atmosphere High ceilings, impressive art-nouveauinspired feature bar, chandeliers fit for a palace, velvet pouffes and creaking leather sofas coupled with welcoming staff, lend grace, charm, and style to even a quick cup of tea

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 37

La fosse

AT CRANBORNE Restaurant and Rooms

Tisbury High Street

www.thefishmongers.co.uk 01747 871011 info@thefishmongers.co.uk

the fishmongers

@ashthefish

Wet fish counter with Cornish day boat fish Shellfish & Smoked Fish Patés, dips & sauces Readymade fish meals & a variety of Fish Cakes We can meet your requirements for both prepared fish & catering needs

WINTER VEGAN / VEGETARIAN TASTING MENU We kindly ask for a Tasting Menu to be taken by the entire table.

Available on pre-order at the time of booking your table.

Complimentary Sour dough bread from Orchard Bay Bakery in Cranborne with our own Dukah and rapeseed oil

Citrus poached golden beets, apple and candied walnuts, spiced tomato chutney Woodland mushroom and winter greens chowder Parsnip and tofu cooked in sesame and agave syrup, onion Kimchi, hazelnut pesto, rosemary mash Kiwi Carpaccio (kiwis from our own garden in France) with blood orange sorbet Cocoa with a hint of chilli dark chocolate mousse with marinated pineapple Selection of three Vegan cheeses with nibbles, chutney, crackers If you are vegetarian, we can offer our large Best Dorset cheeseboard to share

£45 per person.

with wine flight or our non alcoholic spirits/drinks flight, £20 per person extra

The Square, Cranborne BH21 5PR • 01725 517604 www.la-fosse.com • lafossemail@gmail.com

Delicious Indian street food in relaxed surroundings

Enjoy Rasheed and Dipender’s exciting menus along with Chef Kumar’s 25 years of experience.

Ever-changing menus made with locally sourced ingredients and fine craft ales.

Flame your Valentine 01722 327628 Call us to book!

90 Fisherton St, Salisbury, SP2 7QY • info@baroushka.com • baroushka.com

90 Crane Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2QD 01722 329700 cafediwali.com

FA N TA ST I C E A R LY E V E N I N G M E N U !

5:30pm - 7pm

2 courses with wine

£15

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON THE BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF PROVENANCE To us this means authenticity, assurance and rigorous attention to obtain the finest quality ingredients at source. This dedication ensures that every time you visit us, you experience the true essence of Italian life.

It’s food, it’s wine, it’s culture and most importantly the passion of our team.

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE OUTSIDE CATERING

To make a reservation call us on

01722 324 350

Giles & Cathy welcome you.

The Boot Inn Our kitchen will be closed from the 11th - 25th February due to our annual holiday

• Sawday’s Special Places, Pubs and Inns Guide 2018 • Inclusion in the Good Food Guide for the past 10 years • Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence • Village Location • Large Beer Garden • Close to Stonehenge • Children Welcome • Dog Friendly Daily changing, fresh, seasonal menu.

British food, locally sourced where possible.

Fresh fish and chips on a Friday.

Home smoked meat and fish platters.

Themed food nights, last Friday of the month. (please call for details) High Street, Berwick St James, Salisbury, Wilts, SP3 4TN t: 01722 790243 • w: www.theboot.pub e: cathy@theboot.pub

HOW WE MAKE IT WORK Meet the real life partners who are also real life business partners

By Sarah Moolla

“We’ve been married for 25 years this year – we’re a good team” 40 I salisbury LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

couples in business

I

nvesting in both your career and your relationships is a tricky path at the best of times, so how do partners who work together, make it work?

We speak to some of Salisbury’s most successful power couples to hear the romantic tales of how they met, joined forces both in life and business, and how they maintain a healthy work life balance.

Clarissa and Yosh Reilly of the antiques & interiors emporium, Digger & Mojo; www.diggerandmojo.com

Clarissa and Yosh’s first meeting involved vodka and a toe stomp!

© John Rose

Clarissa: We met in London at a charity jazz night. I thought it was in aid of anti-smoking experiments performed on beagles, but it turned out to be the Sandhurst & Aldershot Beagle Pack Annual fundraiser. After making a mistake of that magnitude there was nothing for it but to get seriously stuck in to drinking and jiving. I span off the dance floor and landed heavily on Yosh’s toe.

Yosh: A lot of vodka had gone down the hatch by then! I was an army officer and Clarissa ran her own business organising travel locations round the world for film and TV crews, but we were both amazed to discover we had two obscure things in common; a Slav heritage and a love of Papua New Guinea of all places.

Clarissa: I loved antiques and design, and Yosh had always loved woodwork and is very hands-on. So when he left the army and we returned from overseas, it seemed like a great idea to set up a business together.

Yosh: It was an easy decision. but growing the business over five years has been much tougher.

The current retail environment is difficult, but we’re both pretty stoic and hard-working.

Clarissa: Yosh’s resourceful attitude, problemsolving skills and natural delicacy is ideally suited to working in restoration.

Yosh: I’ve learnt that Clarissa should do the pricing! We’ve been married for 25 years this year – we’re a good team.

Clarissa: The way we handle any rows is by brief non-speaks followed by a rational (even if sometimes painful) conversation after a while – we both hate confrontation and are natural compromisers.

Yosh: What is particularly tough for any family business is when there is turmoil in your private lives, so you are all feeling it, yet the show must go on at work. In 2018 both our mothers died within a week, and coping with bereavement, while putting on a brave face was literally agonising. Our regular customers were so supportive and kind that they helped us get back to looking forward to each working day.

Deborah and Michael Fox of the gallery, café, and studio space, Fisherton Mill; www.fishertonmill.co.uk Deborah: We met in New Zealand on a bus trip back in 1990. I was backpacking on my

www.mediaclash.co.uk I salisbury LIFE I 41

couples in business own and joined a hop on and off bus trip, which stopped at points of interest and cheap accommodation. Our eyes met across the tops of the seat, or something like that!

Michael: I caught a glimpse of this beautiful girl boarding the bus in Auckland. I still can’t believe my luck.

Deborah: I was helping with a group meal in the hostel and I remember deliberately annoying him by chopping carrots unevenly and too thickly. I didn’t like being told how to do something, even if it was by a chef !

Michael: There wasn’t a first date as such, as we just spent every day together on the threeweek trip around the Islands. We hired a car to drive around the very north of North Island, when I steered over the edge of a mountain track – it was a near death experience – yet the girl still married me!

Deborah: The impetus to go into business came about when I was expecting our first child and Michael didn’t want to keep working split shifts as a chef. I saw an advert for someone to run a café in a new gallery opening in Salisbury and Michael applied and was successful. Gradually I became more involved working with him in the café and when we bought Fisherton Mill 10 years later, I went full time.

Michael: If Deborah has any weaknesses it would be her inability to remember names, but she has taught me to plan ahead and see the bigger picture.

Deborah: Working with Michael has taught me you can always go the extra mile, how you can dream big and make those dreams a reality through hard work and determination and a passion for what you do.

Michael: We constantly have passionate debates. Nothing wrong with that. We also accept our jobs pretty much consume our daily life, but do try and keep Sundays free.

Deborah: As to any arguments, we can both be quite feisty but are very good at acting like everything is perfect if we need to. However I know the team has referred to us as ‘The Deborah & Michael Show’ and says we should be on TV!

Julia and David Bridger of Parterre Fragrances at Keyneston Mill; www.parterreatkeynestonmill.com David: Julia and I met when we were both living and working in London, some 28 years ago. Julia was working for a luxury travel firm and as a photographer; and I was a marketer and was also studying design.

Julia: When David’s father passed away we took over the family farm in Hampshire. It was principally an equestrian business when we became involved, but we decided to look at other options, specifically horticulture including cut flowers and herbs. After a visit to Grasse in the south of France, a centre of perfumery since 18th century, we began

42 I salisbury LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“We accept our jobs pretty much consume our daily life”

Michael and Deborah take some rare time out from Fisherton Mill

James and Julia Bridger met 28 years ago

I think I have taught him about customer relations, and Mark has taught me to have more patience, and so much about food and cooking.

Mark: Luckily, especially because we live where we work, we don’t have many rows, but if we do we cope fine. It blows always over quickly.

Emanuelle: It is also important is that we have a lot of the same passions privately, which makes us a great team outside of work as well.

Ira Blake and James Humphries of the lighting design firm Light My Space; www.lightmyspace.co.uk

Mark and Emanuelle met in 2001 whilst working together

seriously thinking of how we might grow perfume ingredients.

David: It was a process which took several years from the original ‘seed’ of an idea to launching the first perfumes at Fortnum & Mason in 2017, followed by the bistro, gardens and all the activities and experiences we now offer. We were able to build a fantastic team – from horticulturists and perfume specialists to our chefs who find inspiration in our fresh fragrant herbs and flowers. It has truly been a team effort.

Julia: David is very creative and looks at the big picture. He is also analytical and enjoys discussing the planning process, exploring how we should develop the business.

David: Julia was brought up in a family that loved plants, gardening and wildlife, and has also worked in design, photography and the leisure industry, she is also quite practical. Overall I think our skills are quite complementary.

Julia: Our biggest joint weakness is time management! We get caught up in so many aspects of the business that we run out of hours in the day. David is not a good timekeeper and I concentrate too much on minutiae. Inevitably we disagree sometimes, usually over minor

details. Within the home, I like to tidy, and David has a lot of stuff...enough said!

David: Our home is also our office and as a new business we recognise long hours are part of it, but we would probably benefit if we took more time off – and plan to do so later in the year.

Ira: After working as management consultants for Capgemini, we decided to set up our own consultancy which ran very successfully for 10 years. In parallel, James was building Light My Space and doing customer installations during contract breaks.

James: It was an easy decision to join forces, as I always had the best time when working together with Ira. Separately we are quite creative but together, the ideas are even better.

Ira: Working together has given me a deep insight into the value we each bring to the business and our respective strengths and preferences. I’ve taught James not to sweat the small stuff, focus on the long game and the need to prioritise our time and effort.

James: Ira is a great networker, building and maintaining relationships that have lasted for years. This is really important when you have your own business and I’m taking her lead now.

Ira: James can get distracted by new and cool technology and often ends up working long hours to deliver projects. He really does love, and live lighting, so much so it often creeps into non-work conversations. I do have a veto though when I’ve had enough! In contrast, I’m very task-focused and miss out on some of the fun activities and conversations with people in my drive to get stuff done.

Mark and Emanuelle HARTSON of the B&B and restaurant, La Fosse at Cranborne; www.la-fosse.com

Mark: We met working together at Chewton Glen Hotel in 2001. I remember being by the starter section in the kitchen and prepping when I first saw her. My first impression was really liking her smile.

Emanuelle: It took us three months before that meeting to having our first proper date, and even that was at the staff Christmas party.

Soon after though, we did arrange to go to the movies, just the two of us.

Mark: We have both always had the same dream of owning a hospitality establishment of some sorts, so working together was a very easy decision.

Emanuelle: His one weakness is trying to please everyone, which is impossible.

James and Ira founded Light My Space

www.mediaclash.co.uk I salisbury LIFE I 43

COUPLES IN BUSINESS James: Ira is so focused and, when the workload is high, I sometimes have to break her away to take the necessary downtime.

Ira: We’ve become adept at talking through our different opinions when they arise, so nothing festers and frequently the outcome is better because of this.

James: We agreed to ‘own’ different aspects of the business which helps with final decisionmaking, as the ‘owner’ will have the final call and the other person respects that.

JASON AND LISA REGENT of men’s bespoke suiting, fashion and lifestyle store Regent; www.regenttailoring.co.uk

Jason: We met when I was 28; she walked into the fashion shop I was running at the time, for a job interview. I thought she was super cool, and yes, she got the job.

Lisa: I thought he was very handsome and very well dressed.

Jason: Our first date was on a blowy day at Corfe Castle.

Lisa: I was doing graphic design in Castle Cary for a company called Papyrus and it was Jason’s dream to set up a business, which soon became our shared dream.

Jason: We set up Regent together very early on, but it wasn’t easy as we had just had our first child.

Jason fell for his super-cool wife at her job interview

Lisa: Working with Jason has taught me if you put in hard work you get the rewards.

Jason: And Lisa has taught me classiness and patience.

Lisa: Jason’s weakness is a sausage roll, and mine is a nice pair of trainers. Also I’m not that great with dealing with customers! Jason finds it hard to balance home and business.

Jason: We accept that Regent the business is a part of our life together, it’s written on the door! But we have also learnt to have our own areas of work to suit our skill set. Lisa does most of the graphic designs of the business, including our skull and butterfly design, while I run and manage the shop day to day.

Lisa: What really unites us as well is we are very proud of being a family run business, and we both love being a part of Salisbury.

CATHY AND GILES DICKINSON of the country pub, The Boot Inn; www.theboot.pub

Cathy: My parents ran the pub in Stow-onthe-Wold that all the nearby hotel workers socialised in after work. I already knew all the other people Giles was working with, and it didn’t take long for us to meet.

Giles: My first impression was of a beautiful, intelligent woman who was also very interested in the thing I was most focused on then – food.

Cathy: Our first date was a pub away from Stow – neutral territory!

44 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Giles: The first time we worked together was when I took a sous chef position in a Devon country house hotel, and Cathy came down as a general assistant. We found out that we enjoyed both living and working together.

Cathy: I would like to think that we have both taught each other the same thing – that neither of us could or would want to do this alone – we need each other for the business to be a success.

Giles: My weakness is impatience, which is why she keeps me in the kitchen as much as possible! Cathy’s weakness can also be seen as a strength depending on which direction you look at it from – she can worry too much about the small things, but that also shows much she cares.

Cathy: Our work is also our lifestyle, so we readily accept it as part of our life together and talk about it all the time, and rows are very few and far between.

NIKKI AND JULES SPICER of the luxurious spa,Vita Skin Spa; www.vitaskinspa.co.uk

Giles made sure his first date with Cathy was on neutral territory

Jules: We met in 2005 through some friends on a night out, at the N and N Bar, Salisbury.

I have to admit I was pretty drunk so my recollections are hazy!

Nikki: Our first proper date was to Salisbury races. We won quite a lot on the races that day, and I remember he really made me laugh.

Jules: Working together came about as Nikki had already set up the spa, and I then took voluntary redundancy to help grow the business. Not easiest decision at the time, but looking back, definitely the best decision.

Nikki: We were giving up his wage and the stability it provided, but we gave ourselves a year to make it work. I know I couldn’t have done it without him.

Jules: Nikki has shown me if you believe in something and are passionate about it, then you can achieve your goals. I do try and get Nikki to think through business decisions, and to not be as impulsive. However I don’t always succeed at this! Fortunately we are both pretty calm and relaxed, we rarely argue, it must be the spa environment!

Nikki: Jules keeps me grounded and makes me laugh, even through the tough times.

He is much better at switching off than I am, and has taught me to prioritise what is important in life. Our main difference is Jules does not like a to-do list, whereas I love them.

Jules: We do talk about the business a lot at home but that’s an important part of being successful. Thanks to our great team, we do now take the school holidays off which is a good way to leave behind work for a short while at least.

Jules wooed Nikki at Salisbury Racecourse

“I know I couldn’t have done it without him” www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 45

VP Motorcycles

New Helmets & Winter accessories in stock

We now stock Tru-Tension products as seen on Dragons Den

Antiques, Interiors + Workshops Restoration • Reupholstery Painting • Caning TURN LEFT AS YOU ENTER WOODBOROUGH GARDEN CENTRE PEWSEY, SN9 5PF 01672 851510 7 DAYS 11AM-5PM

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Opening Times:

Monday to Friday 9am - 5:30pm | Saturday 9am – 12pm Sundays and Bank Holidays Closed Unit 23, Sarum Business Park, Lancaster Road, Old Sarum, Salisbury, SP4 6FB

01722 238 594  vpmotorcycles.co.uk

businessinsider salisbury gets serious

left: The Maltings was at the centre of

March's nerve agent incident

below: How part of the new Maltings

development will look

Quote of the issue

WE’LL BUILD THIS CITY Revised regenerating plans for Salisbury unveiled

T

he multimillion pound vision for the Maltings has recently been unveiled with a bigger focus on reviving the city. The Market Walk will be transformed into a retail arcade with a boutique hotel linking to a newly formed Cultural Quarter.

The updated scheme features a reduction in the number of nonfood retail outlets, an increase in the number of restaurants, a sevenscreen cinema, a gym, a premium

Travelodge-plus brand with 86-rooms, a library, and additional new housing and the creation of a new cultural quarter, all of which is hoped to be complete by February 2022.

The library will also be relocated to the former British Heart Foundation shop on Fisherton Street as part of the new development complex which is due for completion by August/ September 2020. The project, which is priority for Swindon and Wiltshire Local

Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) to restore confidence and growth in the city will cost an estimated £69.25million.

Councillor Pauline Church, the cabinet member for economic development and Salisbury recovery, says, “As a prime city centre location, the Maltings redevelopment is a vital site in the regeneration and economic growth for Salisbury.”

For more: Wiltshire Council; www.wiltshire.gov.uk

“It is a privilege to have Luke and Jeremy as part of our team”

Chief Constable Kier Pritchard praises his latest recruits.

Turn to page 51 for more

The Big Number

£69.25m How much is being spent to help revive parts of the city.

See opposite for the full story

mediaclash.co.uk 115

Wiltshire Trichology Centre Do you have hair loss or early thinning?

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If so...make an appointment at Wiltshire Trichology Centre now!

At the Wiltshire Trichology Centre, Dr John Gray, Fellow of the Institute of Trichologists (FIT) has a wealth of experience in diagnosing and treating hair loss, hair thinning and scalp problems in men and women. A trained MD he is an internationally recognised hair expert, and a member of the European Academy of Dermatology. He also specialises in cosmetic issues such as severe hair damage and hair dye allergy effects. Mrs Marilyn Sherlock FIT will continue to consult on medico-legal cases.

Dr John Gray FIT

Mrs Marilyn Sherlock FIT

Dr Gray has long experience in aesthetic medicine and also offers safe and effective botox treatment for the reduction of facial wrinkles, especially in the uppermost third of the face and for the relief of excessive sweating in the armpits.

Female Hair Loss: Many women as well as men suffer from diffuse thinning or even severe loss. This can be treated and may result in signiďŹ cant improvement provided it is started early.

Appointments: 01722 415055 213 Devizes Road Salisbury SP2 9LT www.wiltshiretrichologycentre.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

care of the elderly, and I had worked in sports medicine, both with the army and in the NHS. Company wise, Juliet had the business brains while I had the chatter!

Why this branch of therapy?

I love the mix of the physical and emotional side of physio. It is such a hands on therapy, you get to physically feel and influence the patient’s problem and balance it with the lifestyle, the expectations and any limitations.

Does Sarum Physio have a mantra it tries to live by professionally?

We are all about expertise, experience, and empathy.

JENNY MEARS

From the age of 11 Jenny knew she wanted to be a physiotherapist and a chance meeting at her squash club sent her down that path, which lead to the Sarum Physiotherapy going strong for an amazing 25 years What were your childhood ambitions?

I wanted to be a physio from the age of 11 which is when I had both my bunions done, and then had physio afterwards. I saw all manner of conditions but there was lots of activity, effort and laughter, and thought it looked like the perfect job for me.

Did you love science at school?

I enjoyed biology, but struggled with physics and chemistry; that was until physio training when

the subjects came to life, and it all started to make sense.

Tell us a little about the background to setting up Sarum Physio. What was the inspiration?

Back in the early 1990s at the squash club I met this wonderful physio, Juliet Rogers, who had moved to Salisbury around the same time as myself. We both had a desire to set up a practice, and thought it would be much more fun to do this together. Juliet was experienced in

25 years in the business is incredible – well done! Any secrets you’d care to share to achieving such longevity?

I think it helps that it feels like a family – Izzy has been a huge part of the team for 24 years and Georgie, Gaby and Sue for almost as many years. We all do laugh a lot – physios can be a bit loud!

Any well-known clients you can tell us about..?

Nick Holmes, former Southampton footballer and a previous manager at Salisbury FC – he is such a gentleman, and easy to treat as he is so disciplined.

Any advice to someone who would like to set up their own business?

My advice is firstly find someone who you trust and admire and then you have found your partner, and make sure you take at two meeting a year away form the office. Juliet and I did this religiously and went to Stourhead, talked about life, the universe and everything first and then got down to business planning.

Losing Juliet as my mentor and business partner last year was just devastating, and so sad.

What plans does Sarum Physio have for the immediate future and long term plans, over the next 25 years?

In the short term I am learning how

to be a sole trader and so learning some new skills. We have some great young physios who keep everything vibrant and so for the moment I am enjoying going with the flow. In the long term I hope we continue to go from strength to strength and I can find a likeminded person to help take the practice beyond its 50th year.

Can you tell us about a recent job you are particularly proud of?

I was privileged enough to be selected as one of two support physios for a team of wounded servicemen competing in the Race Across America in 2017.

All eight were, and are, awesome, including Josh Boggi who did a lot of his training around Salisbury.

They smashed the challenge and completed over 3081 miles in six days and 12 hours. This was the best professional experience I have ever had. I learnt to understand the team’s motto that ‘the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.’

“ I HOPE WE CONTINUE TO GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH” What exercise do you personally like?

I have just taken up Nordic walking and I love it. I prefer to be outside and in a group having a giggle along the way. I also enjoy cycling and tennis too.

What’s one thing about you that would surprise people?

Perhaps that I am a bit of an am-dram lovey! I am very excited to have got the part of Roz in 9-5: The Musical at the Studio Theatre Salisbury in May.

For more: Sarum Physiotherapy Centre, 213 Devizes Road SP2 9LT; tel: 01722 415055; www.sarumphysio.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I SALISBURY LIFE I 117 49

NEWS STORIES Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories happening right now

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC Sarah, Duchess of York on her Wiltshire visit

Goodfayre’s Dana is a winner at the House of Lords

A GRAND DUCHESS Sarah, Duchess of York has becomes a patron of the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice charity, Julia’s House. The Duchess pledged her support following a recent visit to a Wiltshire hospice in Devizes, saying, “I am delighted and privileged to accept the offer of a Patronage of Julia’s House.

“I was so taken by the charity when I visited.

It is a place of unity providing harmony and happiness. When I walked in, I immediately felt

embraced, that everything was okay and that I was able to just be with the children, which was a real luxury. It is such a good place where children are able to be themselves. Not to be judged, just to be.”

The Duchess spent time chatting, playing and interacting with families and staff before reading an extract from one of her children’s books during the tour of the hospice.

For more: www.juliashouse.org

JUMP TO IT

Photographer John Rose, pictured fourth left, takes to the skies to help raise funds

50 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Alabaré’s commemorative skydive took place in November with more than 50 people taking to the skies to raise funds to help provide shelter and support to vulnerable ex-service men and women. Participants included Wiltshire Police Chief Constable Kier Pritchard who says, “I did the skydive to commemorate 100 years of the end of World War I, to show respect and also to remember those who served. And also to raise awareness for the tremendous work that Alabaré do for people who have suffered from the tragedy of war and have also suffered with the transition into civilian life. I’m really proud to have raised money for them - they do such an amazing job.”

Other participants included contributing Salisbury Life photographer John Rose.

For more: www.alabare.co.uk

LORDING IT UP

The UK’s top small businesses, including an ethical business from Salisbury, received special recognition on 26 November at an exclusive House of Lords reception.

Dana Burton, owner of Goodfayre, which is Salisbury’s first vegan and plastic free shop, was one of those recognised as one of 2018’s Small Biz 100, for its contribution to both the UK economy and its local community.

For more: www.goodfayre.co.uk

GOING DOWNTON

The purpose-built extension at Downton Memorial Centre has recently been opened to reveal a new home for Downton Community Pre-school, plus a suite of modern conferencing rooms and community spaces. Susan Barnhurst-Davies, chair of the Downton Memorial Centre says, “It’s such a versatile space that will benefit so many people.”

For more: www.downtonmemorialcentre.co.uk

A HAPPY TAIL

It was a record-breaking 2018 for the Dogs Trust Salisbury who rehomed 63 more dogs than the previous year.

Jacinta Lye, who is the rehoming manager at the Newton Tony centre says, “We currently have around 50 dogs all looking for a new family.

This year we’re going to pull out even more stops to rehome even more dogs. ” For more: www.dogstrust.org.uk

BUSINESS INSIDER

Mark Waddington visits Joseph and his foster mother, Faith, in Rwanda

PROPERTY Q&A Mariana Crawford of Trethowans answers questions on the process between the exchange of contracts and completion

STAYING HOPEFUL Mark Waddington, chief executive of the Salisbury-based charity Hope and Homes for Children, which works to stop confining children in orphanages, and find ways of supporting them to live in loving families, has been recognised in the New Year’s Honours List. He has been awarded a CBE for Services to Global Child Protection. He says, “The CBE is acknowledging the work of many people over many years, in many countries – work that is making the world a better place for our children to grow up in.”

For more: www.hopeandhomes.org

A FAIR COP

Who is responsible for the buildings insurance during this period?

The buyer, unless it is specifically agreed that the seller will continue to insure the property until completion takes place.

Where a mortgage is required, this is a condition of the mortgage offer as well as under the contract.

What does my solicitor need from me before completion?

Money. Your solicitor will confirm the balance of funds that is required to complete the transaction. Arrange for your solicitor to have cleared funds at least two working days before the completion date to avoid any unnecessary money worries.

What should I be wary of during this process?

Unfortunately, cyber fraud is a very real threat and you must be vigilant. Never rely on an email from your solicitor about a late change of the firm’s bank details. Always phone your solicitor to confirm the correct bank details or visit the office to check these details in person.

For more: Trethowans Solicitors, 1 London Road, Salisbury. tel: 01722 412512; www.trethowans.com

Luke, Kier and Jeremy are a force to be reckoned with

Two young adults with Down’s syndrome have helped Wiltshire Police scoop a top employment award. The force was awarded the Best Employer Practice accolade by the British Association of Supported Employment (BASE) recently. It recognises their commitment to supporting people with disabilities to secure and retain employment.

Luke works in the Crime and Communication Centre at Devizes Police Headquarters. He started volunteering in administration there back in 2016 and has since been given a Certificate of Appreciation for his significant contribution and

a permanent, paid role. While Jeremy started volunteering in the Driver Support team back in 2017 and has now gone on to help with the video team based at Devizes HQ. Chief Constable Kier Pritchard says, “It is a privilege to have Luke and Jeremy as part of our team. We are keen to focus on ability and found the philosophy of the WorkFit programme complemented our approach and also provided the tools and training to help us offer the best possible support to these exceptional young men.”

For more: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 51

Louise Mason Naturopath & Nutritionist PERSONALISED NUTRITION H E A LT H F O R T O D AY Your Consultant - Louise Mason

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Education myself a little time before deciding, and then discovered I really rather liked teaching.

How do you think your own experiences at school as a child have influenced you now as an educator?

Enormously. I was lucky to have teachers who helped me foster a love of music. I often think back to how they introduced a new piece or topic, and then use it as a starting point for my own teaching.

SUSIE LAMB

Susie Lamb is the director of music at Salisbury Cathedral School. Here she talks inspiring teachers, the power of music, and why returning to geography later in life spelt out love…

What is your first schoolrelated memory?

Being an angel in the nativity in the Cathedral. I was four years old and the other little angel and me giggled the whole way through. I think we may have been told off at the end!

school choir. If only all children still had access to this sort of education in every primary school.

If you were retrospectively writing your own school report, what would it say?

Well-organised: somehow I managed to always get work handed in on time; a quality I try to maintain now that I am grown up but possibly with less success.

I think then, I was scared by the possibility of failure and actually, as I get older, I realise it just makes you into a stronger and better person.

Were there any subjects you struggled with?

Geography. When I was 14 I was given the option to give it up so that I could do more music practice.

Let’s just say my geography teacher wasn’t sad to see me go. However, when I first met my husband we set ourselves the challenge of learning the capital cities for every country in the world. Later on, he proposed to me with an acrostic quiz of capital cities, where the first letter of the answers spelt out “WILL YOU MARRY ME”. Luckily I got all the answers right!

What did you most enjoy about your schools days?

Music. At Harnham we had the most amazing teacher, John Roseaman, who started a recorder consort where we played in several parts, as well as running a brilliant

Were there any other jobs you considered when you were younger?

I knew I wanted to work in music, but I also knew from early on that I wasn’t going to be a professional performer. I did a PGCE to buy

Was there one teacher who really helped shape your love of learning?

I have had such wonderful teachers, but if I had to choose one teacher who set me on the right path and inspired me, it would be Mr Roseaman, as mentioned before. Not only did he teach all the music at Harnham, he was my class teacher in Year 5, and it was one of the best years of my life!

In a nutshell, why teach music?

Everyone can join in with music, it can make you feel on top of the world. If you’re having a bad day, play something or listen to a favourite piece, or go to Evensong and listen to the choristers. It will always make you feel better.

Are there any misconceptions about music as a subject?

I think some people think it is a subject you do until you can drop it, and then it’s gone. Imagine a world where everyone HAD to do music for their whole time at school – people might be happier, kinder, more fulfilled.

How can your subject improve pupils’ lives?

Music helps you to learn and

experience, as well as nurture independence, pleasure, determination, joy, resilience, co-ordination, mindfulness, teamwork, and empathy.

What is your favourite piece of music?

Mass in B minor by Bach, Brahms Requiem, Rachmaninoff Piano Concert no 2, Mozart Marriage of Figaro. Almost anything by Byrd, Palestrina, Victoria. I could actually go on forever.

What are your own preferred extra curriculum activities?

Crochet, knitting, sewing on my machine, swimming in the sea or in a river, being outside and hunting for butterflies and orchids.

“Let’s just say my geography teacher wasn’t sad to see me go” What’s the one piece of advice you would share with every pupil?

Give everything a chance, never dismiss anything as ‘boring’ and try to be yourself for your whole life – you only get one go, so don’t pretend to be anyone else. …and to the parents and carers?

Practice matters. If you want your child to learn an instrument, even if they have music coursing through their veins, they will never master it unless they practise regularly and properly.

For more: www.salisburycathedralschool.com Susie conducts the Salisbury Cathedral School choir

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 53

property a pl ace to c all home

LOVE ALL Elsie Chadwick is smitten with an ace Georgian home that’s a perfect match in every way

54 I salisbury LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

“Netting this beautiful Newton Toney home would be champion”

T

he world is looking for the next Andy Murray. Could it be you? It would certainly help if you have a tennis court at your disposal, and this is where netting this smashing Newton Toney home would be champion. Sitting in two acres of low maintenance, gorgeously manicured gardens is a top quality, newly laid, hard surface, tennis court.

Even though we’re all about serving up the love in this issue, it’s a strange twist of fate that this Old Rectory, which is a classic Georgian property, only came about because of animosity. It was built in approximately 1778 because the then rector, Reverend John Ekins, disliked the original Jacobean rectory to such an extent,

he had it destroyed. Bit harsh we think, to lash out at an architectural style with such finality, but it did make space for his labour of love to begin. The Reverend Ekins was also the appointed Dean of Salisbury Cathedral, and it is believed he sourced stone from the demolished Cathedral at Old Sarum to build his new dream house. Some of the carved stones in the property can be identified in the plinth of the current house.

The rectory was sold off by the church in 1953, and is now a spacious yet welcoming Grade II family home arranged over three floors. It has recently undergone refurbishment so there shouldn’t be any ye olde ancient problems waiting your arrival. The work includes partial re-wiring, re-plumbing, a new bore hole, and a whole new central heating system with zoned heating.

There is also underfloor heating throughout nearly the whole of the ground level and the principal bathroom.

The front of the property is south west facing, whilst off the kitchen/breakfast room, is a large east-facing terrace, ideal for alfresco living. The kitchen itself is particularly well equipped with a freestanding induction cooker, extensive storage space, and two dishwashers. Off the entrance hall is a well-appointed drawing room, study and sitting room, which in turn leads through to a generous kitchen/breakfast room with a second dining room. Over the first floor are five

www.mediaclash.co.uk I salisbury LIFE I 55

luxe bedrooms and four bathrooms, whilst the top floor has been cleverly converted into two double bedrooms, one very generous, a bathroom and a small library/TV room, ideal for a visiting relative or as an Airbnb option. There is also recently acquired planning permission to construct space over the three bay garage.

The Old Rectory is approached through electric wooden gates over a long impressive drive to the side of the property. Towards the entrance is that winning match point tennis court with beech trees giving ample screening. Opposite is a walled garden currently with an extensive vegetable patch but which, if required, could become an outdoor swimming pool, truly turning this into the sport-lover’s ideal home.

The front of the property is a structured garden which in turn leads out onto a large flat lawned area perfect for croquet, a child’s football pitch or merely enjoying the open outlook over neighbouring rolling land.

Standing in an elevated position, the property overlooks surrounding paddocks and farmland and has the benefit of far-reaching views. Being is situated on the north eastern edge of Newton Toney, The Old Rectory has fine south westerly views across the Bourne valley and village below. Characterised by rolling chalk downland and tree-lined river valleys, south Wiltshire’s scenery is as beautiful as it is varied. With charming country villages in its vista, these ancient landscapes epitomise rural England at its very best.

56 I salisbury LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

House numbers Internal square metres 588

Guide price

Bedrooms 7

For more: Strutt & Parker, 41 Milford Street, Salisbury. tel: 01722 567825; www.struttandparker.com

Tennis court

1

Bathrooms

5

£3.25m

PROPERTY

“Reverend John Ekins disliked the original Jacobean rectory to such an extent, he had it destroyed”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I salisbury LIFE I 57

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60 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TRAVEL SPECIAL

Why visit…

CARDIFF? Cardiff Life editor EMMA DANCE talks all things Cardiff...

From ancient castles and Victorian shopping arcades, to ultra-modern arts centres and award-winning cocktail bars, Cardiff’s got all the trappings of any European capital (and since December, you don’t even have to pay the bridge toll). And as one of the UK’s fastest growing cities, it’s time for the Welsh capital to take its turn in the spotlight.

SHOPPING

You won’t be able to miss the behemoth St David’s shopping centre slap bang in the city centre, where you’ll find all the big brands as well as plenty of places to eat and drink. For smaller, quirkier shops though, head to the famous Victorian arcades which are full of all manner of stores tempting you to part with your cash – including Spillers Records, reputed to be the oldest record store in the world. A short walk along the river and through the park will take you to the leafy suburb of Pontcanna – Cardiff’s answer to Notting Hill – with plenty of independent, upmarket boutiques.

FOOD AND DRINK

Tommy Heaney (of Great British Menu fame) is making some major waves in the Cardiff food scene with his recently opened restaurant in Pontcanna garnering rave reviews, while Asador 44 serves some seriously banging steak – and the lunch deals are incredible value. For fine dining, head to the Michelin-

St David’s Hotel does a great Welsh cake!

starred Restaurant James Sommerin in Penarth or, on the opposite end of the scale, the Sticky Fingers street food market in the Brewery Quarter is your place for casual eats. If you’ve got a sweet tooth then don’t miss the afternoon tea at the Admiral St David – you might recognise the pastry chefs from Bake Off: The Professionals.

The bar scene in Cardiff is massive, but leading the pack are The Dead Canary and Lab 22 – both named among the UK’s top 50 cocktail bars. If beer’s more your thing then look out for Brains, Tiny Rebel, Pipes and Crafty Devil brews – all produced in the city.

ARTS, CULTURE AND HISTORY

There are some pretty big ‘must-sees’ like historic Cardiff Castle, the National Museum and the architecturally awesome Wales Millennium Centre, but there’s plenty more besides. The Sherman Theatre focuses on new work, Chapter Arts presents international art, performance and film, you can see stars of the future at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and there are ever-changing, intriguing photography exhibitions at Ffotogallery.

SPORT

“On a Wales rugby match day, the city is awash with red, and there’s a real buzz on the streets”

On a Wales rugby match day, the city is awash with red, and there’s a real buzz on the streets.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all about the rugby in Cardiff, though – Cardiff City F.C were promoted to the Premier League this season, Cardiff Devils ice hockey team topped their league, and the Cardiff Comets are the only Welsh women’s hockey team playing in the leagues. Come summer, you’ll hear the sound of leather on willow as Glamorgan Cricket play in Sophia Gardens.

MAKING A WEEKEND OF IT? WHERE TO STAY voco St David’s Hotel Cardiff’s only five-star hotel offers stunning views over the Bay as well as a really rather fabulous spa. www.ihg.com Park Plaza Chic and stylish, with a spa to boot, you won’t go wrong with a stay here. www.parkplazacardiff. com

Hotel Indigo Actually in one of Cardiff’s arcades, you won’t get a better location from which to ignore the city. And we love the décor inspired by local landmarks. www.ihg.com Clayton Hotel Cardiff Cardiff’s biggest hotel is adjacent to the train station, and offers a smart base from which to explore the city. www.claytonhotelcardiff. com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 61

TRAVEL SPECIAL

Wales or the Caribbean?

(Clue: It’s Wales) Mumbles in the sun

A shore thing

The Gower peninsula is full of charm whatever the weather, finds Emma Dance Discovering the life of Dylan Thomas

62 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

We do like to be beside the seaside

I

’ve always found there to be something rather beguiling about being beside the sea in the rain.

Which is all to the good really, since the closer we got to the Gower peninsula the worse the weather became.

By the time we’d reached the pretty Victorian seaside village of Mumbles the rain had progressed from a persistent drizzle to a determined downpour so we took shelter in Verdi’s, an Italian cafe right on the seafront. On a fine day the views over Swansea Bay would be impressive, but as it was, the outlook was shrouded in grey.

The cold, wet winteriness of it all however wasn’t going to deter us from enthusiastically devouring a mountain of their homemade

park to reception.

Such was our rush to escape the raging storm that we hadn’t fully appreciated our location, and it was only once safely installed in our room that the magnificence of the surroundings really dawned on us.

From our position, perched atop a rugged cliff, we could see a wide sweep of sand stretched out below with the waves crashing angrily on the shore. A lone dog walker, braving the elements, could be seen bent almost double as they braced against the violent gusts while their canine companion bounced energetically up and down the beach, unfazed. Far from detracting from the beauty of the setting however, the foul weather simply added drama, and we sat in quiet contemplation, staring out the window, listening to the pounding surf and the sound of the rain lashing against the glass, until the black clouds were obliterated by nightfall.

The weekend was spent dodging downpours, taking advantage of brief spells of sunshine to walk to the serpent-like Worm’s Head promontory and to descend the steep steps to the near-deserted Rhossili Bay and then hurriedly clamber back up again as soon as we felt the first spots of water. We drove to Oxwich and discovered yet another broad, butterscotch beach – just as attractive as any of the hip Mediterranean resorts, but without the crowds – and took a stroll through the neighbouring woodland. And when the rain returned we’d hunker down in cosy pubs and restaurants gorging ourselves on huge platefuls of comfort food.

“We discovered yet another broad, butterscotch beach” ice cream – reputed to be some of the best in the region – while we waited, in a vain hope, for the rain to subside. Our optimism proved to be somewhat misguided however, and fair-weather walkers that we are, we quickly abandoned plans for a stroll along the Gower coast path and instead continued our journey to Rhossili and the Worm’s Head Hotel.

If the weather had been having a strop before, by now it had become a full-blown tantrum, with winds so strong they buffeted the air from our lungs and rain so heavy we were completely drenched in just the few seconds it took to make the dash from car

On the way home we paused in Swansea, Dylan Thomas’ “Ugly, lovely town” to pay a visit to the centre dedicated to the poet and the new exhibition telling the fascinating story of his life.

A meander around the waterfront was once again cut short by the arrival of rain and we beat a hasty retreat back to the car.

But as we drove away we wondered why we’d never before visited this wonderful little corner of the country and vowed to return.

Only this time, with better raincoats.

For more: www.visitswanseabay.com

Travel details We stayed at the Worm’s Head Hotel, Rhossili, Gower SA3 1PP; www.thewormshead.co.uk Eating and drinking: The King’s Head, Llangenith SA3 1HX; www.kingsheadgower.co.uk Oxwich Bay Hotel, Oxwich Bay, SA3 1LS; www.oxwichbayhotel.co.uk Verdi’s, Knab Rock, Mumbles Road, The Mumbles, Swansea; www.verdis-cafe.co.uk Places to visit: Dylan Thomas Centre, 6 Somerset Place, Swansea SA1 1RR; www.dylanthomas.com Swansea Museum, Victoria Road, Swansea SA1 1SN; www.swanseamuseum.co.uk National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Road, Swansea SA1 3RD; www.museum.wales/swansea/ Gower Gallery, 530 Mumbles Road, The Mumbles, Swansea; www.gowergallery.co.uk Mumbles Pier, Mumbles Road, The Mumbles, Swansea; www.mumbles-pier.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 63

Despite his surname, Chris Bentley has never been much of a petrol head , but the Mercedes X-Class V6 is about to change that

The X-Factor Petrolhead-in-training Chris Bentley testdrives the new Mercedes X-Class V6, the first ever pickup from a premium car manufacturer 64 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

W

hen it was first released, I had the chance to drive the F-Type Jaguar. Pulling up at the lights, its almost theatrical engine noise garnered nods of appreciation deserving of the successor to the legendary E-Type.

Accelerating away, it got even better, and I was fully aware of the envy oozing from fellow drivers as the five-litre supercharged engine pushed me to the speed limit in a nanosecond. For the first time in my life, I got why so many folk go loopy over cars!

That feeling was quite something – but it’s been missing from my life since that fateful weekend as, cards on the table, I’ve never really been that much of a petrolhead. Indeed, with a rather chequered back catalogue of vehicles under my possession (from a Volvo GLSi to Citroën Picasso), I’ve been more about

CAR REVIEW function over form!

So I was taken aback when I was asked if I’d like to review a Mercedes X-Class. At this point, I chose not to mention my history or, more pertinently, the monster repair bill when I handed back my most recent company car, and just said yes.

As I sat behind the wheel of the three-litre V6 monster I enjoyed the newness of the truck as anyone does, but in no way expected the exhilaration I felt all those years ago in the £80k Jaguar. Half an hour later, however, as I opened the throttle driving up a steep hill, it all came back as I saw incredulity on the faces in the cars it just cruised past effortlessly. This is a truck that is unlike any other truck I’ve been near; it can shift!

I appreciate poke may not be high on the agenda for truck buyers, but I get the feeling Mercedes have made the X-Class for more than your local tree surgeon. As you step inside, it’s clear this vehicle is after a bigger market, as the electric heated seats, five different driving modes and spacious cabin all testify. Merc have added bits you’d not really expect from a truck that has a 965kg payload including 550Mn torque, live traffic alerts and saloon standard handling.

The cabin itself is still a bit ‘industrial’, with a touch too much plastic on the dash and the most peculiar location for a keyless starting button I could think of but, when that’s the only real gripe this scribe can figure, you know that they really are onto something.

“I saw incredulity on the faces in the cars it just cruised past effortlessly” This was evidenced when I had a chat with my mate Tim. He gets cars in a way I perhaps don’t and happens to drive a Navara; pretty much the arch-enemy of the X-Class, which, incidentally, shares its chassis.

Taking Tim for a quick spin I was treated to an informative lecture listing the quality and benefits of the X-Class – he is a potential customer and had done his research. When you add in the tax benefit of driving a ‘commercial vehicle’, the X Class once again stands head and shoulders over the existing options, yet has so many perks of a standard car that have, up till now, not been available in vans.

When I cast my mind back to the ‘wow’ moments I’ve had cars, it doesn’t need to be a very expensive drop top to achieve the feeling, nor does it need to come from a monster price tag. Relax and rest assured, the Mercedes X-Class is a truck you can buy using your head... as well as your heart.

The new Mercedes-Benz X 350 d V6 4MATIC is available now. For more information contact Mercedes Benz of Salisbury, Southampton Rd, Salisbury SP1 2JS tel: 01722 662865; www.sandown-group.co.uk The V6 starts from £38,350.

The X 220 d 4MATIC starts from £27,310

www.mediaclash.co.uk I SALISBURY LIFE I 65

Lives

© Victoria Handel Photogr aphy

“I still have the thank you note from the Spielbergs” from the Spielbergs written on Ritz Paris notepaper!

especially now I am a mother, that wasn’t there before.

I went to a Jennifer Lopez and Puff Daddy (as he was then) party at a club called Bain

My most prized possessions

Douches, after a Dior couture show in 2000. I spent the night chatting to Stephen Dorff and Mel Gibson, and watching several of the then supermodels dancing on the bar.

JOSIE GOODBODY Meet Josie, a diamond girl, with a golden past and a glittering future Josie, is a PR and author with a passion for jewellery. Her sparkling CV includes junior account executive for Bulgari and the head of Global PR for Graff Diamonds. She has also helped launch Gordon Ramsay’s Maze in Grosvenor Square, worked in Monaco for a gold mining firm, and written extensively about jewellery. She has, more recently, written two novels centred around a crimesolving jewellery PR, with the third story in the precious saga coming out in June.

My grandfather commanded the School of Artillery at Larkhill in the 1950s before

going on to become Adjutant General of the British Army. My mother did a lot of volunteering in the refectory of Salisbury Cathedral, and she loved going to Allum & Sidway, which helped nurture my love of jewellery.

I read French at Exeter University, and I had the most

wonderful friends, many of whom are still dear friends today including Lucy Edmondson, who is now a jewellery designer, and is a godmother to my son.

When I was head of PR at Graff Diamonds, I launched

the client magazine Graffiti with the most wonderful editor Lucia Van der Post, who founded the Financial Times’ How to Spend It. I love magazines and still dream about working for one.

I got to dress Steven Spielberg and his wife, and

also Elle Macpherson and Thandi Newton, when I spent four months at Dior Couture in France. I spent my days in the famous Dior building on Avenue Montaigne, amidst some of the most beautiful clothes and most glamorous women in the world.

I still have the thank you note

66 I SALISBURY LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

As a young girl my mind was always full of plots and romances, and I adored reading. I particularly

remember loving The Burning Shore by Wilbur Smith, about Centaine de Thiry Courtney who becomes a diamond mine tycoon. I’m sure this fictional heroine influenced my decision to go live in South Africa.

One of the most fascinating jewels I’ve come across is when at Graff. Mr Graff bought

are a pair of Graff diamond earrings and my grandmother’s double strand pearl necklace that she wears in the portrait I have of her.

My novel The Diamond Connection, is about the most

expensive diamond necklace in the world being stolen during a high-profile charity gala in London, and Jemima Fox-Pearl tries to solve the crime. In the second story, The Christmas Connection, our heroine is faced with trying to unravel a mystery that happened in 1946. I selfpublished these books, as I didn’t want the knock backs of rejection, but my ambition is to get a proper book deal one day.

My idea of perfect happiness is being on a beach in the South

a blue diamond that had come from the Indian mine. It is thought it had belonged to Philip IV of Spain and was included in the 17th century betrothal of his eldest daughter (who is in Velazquez’s famous portrait Las Meninas). This is how it came to central Europe. It was called The Wittelsbach because its last royal owners were the Bavarian Wittelsbach family, and it was set in the Crown of Bavaria.

Woolley & Wallis salerooms on Castle Street. There are always the most exquisite pieces, and at quietly brilliant prices.

One of the most powerful moments of my life was six

My husband is an actor by training, and we have a

years ago, spending the final fortnight of my mother’s life with her almost every moment of the day and night. I was with her when she died, and held her hand until the ambulance took her away. I now feel that there is something of her in me,

of France with family, friends, and a book all about historical jewellery by my side. I also really love swimming, tennis and riding, and spend a lot of time wishing I was better at skiing.

My secret Salisbury is the presale jewellery viewings at the

13-month old son Arthur, who is the most perfect child I could ever imagine, and we’ve just discovered that we’re expecting another baby in the summer! n For more: www.josiegoodbody.com

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