Malmesbury/Tetbury Town Crier August 2015 by Town Crier

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♥ TownCr er Magazine COVERING: TETBURY, MALMESBURY, TETBURY UPTON, BROKENBOROUGH, CRUDWELL, SHERSTON, LUCKINGTON, AVENING, NAILSWORTH, RODBOURNE, STARTLEY, PINKNEY, FOXLEY, HULLAVINGTON, LITTLE SOMERFORD, GREAT SOMERFORD, LONG NEWNTON, MINCHINHAMPTON, CHERINGTON & CORSTON.

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AUGUST 2015

Summer Gardening WessexAuctionRooms Auctioneers of Antiques, Furniture & Collectables

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The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

FOOD & DRINK l HOME l MOTORING l GARDENING l PET CARE

SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS

BARNES Holidays

Prices from 21 August Lakes, Dales and Mountains £249 A superb tour viewing some of Britain’s finest scenery in both the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District. Our centre is Morecambe with its level, five mile promenade and superb views across the bay to the Lakeland hills, especially at sunset. 23 August

Disneyland Paris

Adults £449

Children £229

“Going Dutch” The highlights of Holland £399 28 August Inc. Het Loo Palace, Steam Train and Arnhem Airborne Museum. This short break to Holland has something for everyone with an exciting mix of included attractions from steam tram journeys and elegant palaces, to famous WW2 battle sites. Best of Cornwall in a weekend £309 4 September Inc. Fowey, Padstow, Polperro, Boscastle & Mevagissey. Based in Looe. Explore Cornwall’s Harbour Towns and Villages from the historic fishing port of Looe, where two rivers create a tidal harbour. The bustling harbour is the hub of the town and home to fishing vessels as well as pleasure craft. Wonders of Lake Wolfgang & Austria’s Lake District £749 5 September Includes Guided tour of Salzburg, Eagles Nest, Imperial Villa in Bad Ischl etc. St Wolfgang lies at the heart of the Austrian Lake District made famous as the filming location of the ‘Sound of Music’. Our 4 star hotel is a located on the shores of the lake, a short walk from the heart of the village. Delightful Dingle and Ring of Kerry £489 5 September Includes Dolphin Cruise and Blarney Castle. This County Kerry tour combines a generous entertainment package with an exciting boat cruise and dolphon watching experience around Dingle Bay. Our base is the busy market town of Castleisland famed for the width of its High Street and at this main hotel there is a free drink and entertainment every evening. An extremely popular tour the last two years.

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Weymouth £359 14 September including Sandbanks Ferry. Weymouth is one of Britain’s most attractive resorts with its level promenade from which there are grand views of the coastline. It has a resort full of interest, especially around the busy harbour which is now famous for its role in the 2012 Olympics. Great British Pie and Cake Bake £289 18 September Inc. Chatsworth House & 3 food or drink tastings. Based on the hit BBC TV series, this is a great and fun holiday where we get to see Pork Pies being made, taste and hear about cheese, learn about and taste some beer and also visit one of England’s finest stately homes, Chatsworth.

Tel: 01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk 2

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

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T: 01249 700 417 www.stonehouseclinic.co.uk PLEASE QUOTE REFERENCE YL/001 WHEN BOOKING *To qualify initial appointment must be made before 31.12.15 The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

♥ AUGUST 2015

Editor’s Letter

Welcome to the August Magazine! A warm and thankfully, ‘sunny,’ welcome to the August issue of ‘Your Local Town Crier’. Now the long school summer holidays are upon us, but work commitments continue, you may be wondering how to keep the children entertained during their break. There’s a few ideas in the What’s On pages, and don’t forget Malmesbury Carnival with events taking place throughout July, August with the Carnival Procession on 5th September.

IN THIS ISSUE 6

What’s On

14 Sevington School 15 Football 20 Recipes 24 Summer Gardening 28 Book Reviews

Thanks to everyone who sent in contributions to this issue - we are always interested in receving items of local interest from our readers. In this issue you can read about Sevington Victorian School and Tetbury Town Youth FC. Until next time ...

Annie

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine

The Stables, Fishers Brook, Calne, Wilts. SN11 9HB Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the September 2015 issue: 9th August 2015 Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: steven@towncriermagazine.com Artwork: production@towncriermagazine.com CONDITIONS OF ADVERTISING: The Editor reserves the right to refuse any copy which she feels may not be appropriate material for print. No responsibility will be taken for any damage or loss of material caused by inaccuracy or omission of any advertisement. Artwork prepared by us remains the property of The Town Crier Magazine and reproduction in any form is expressly forbidden without prior permission from the Editor. We provide artwork free of charge and where possible we will adhere to your request on layouts and type, but we cannot guarantee an exact copy. If you wish to produce your own artwork to a specific layout, or have any changes to an existing advert, please ensure your copy is with us by the 1st of month prior to publication at the latest. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the The Town Crier Magazine.

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Summer Gardening

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The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

Local Focus AUGUST 2015

What’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs New Essex Bluegrass Band

Emergency Services Show - 10th Celebration! The Emergency Services Show returns in September and promises to be a fabulous day for all the family and will be the biggest show yet as it is the tenth anniversary of the event. This years’ event will take place on Sunday 13 September at Hullavington Airfield 10am to 4pm. As with previous shows there will be plenty of exciting attractions.

Didmarton Bluegrass Festival 4th–6th September KEMBLE AIRFIELD GEARS UP FOR BANJO AND FIDDLE MOUNTAIN MUSIC! One of the UK's premier Bluegrass, Americana and Old Time Music Festivals. Concerts, dance displays, workshops, square dancing, open stage performances, craft and instrument stalls, children's area and the famous late night bonfires and jam sessions - bring your instrument and join in! See www.didmarton-bluegrass.co.uk for details. The New Grass Cutters

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Tickets are priced at £6.50 per adult, £3.50 per child (under 3s go free) and can be purchased in advance at www.emergencyservicesshow.com or on the gate. All of the proceeds from the show benefit charities that support the work of ‘blue light’ / emergency organisations. For more information, follow us on Facebook at TheEmergencyServicesShow or on Twitter @999show. Come and join us for another fun filled family day.

View our website for our Bi-seasonally changing, locally sourced menu !

COME AND TRY OUR NEW MID-SUMMER MENU!

You will receive a 2nd main course FREE* when you buy 1 main course from our local award winning Ă la carte menu!

Garden dining also available - offer available every day for lunch & dinner To take advantage of this offer a reservation is essential and you must state this offer from the Town Crier upon booking. * Lowest priced meal free. Pre-booking required. Valid up to and including Friday 30th September. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer and subject to availability.

Book now for a real treat at Best Western Mayfield House Hotel Crudwell, Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9EW. Tel: 01666 577409 reception@mayfieldhousehotel.co.uk www.mayfieldhousehotel.co.uk

MAKE LIFE EASIER Rise and recline furniture Adjustable beds

Footcare: On the move: Mobility scooters shoes and slippers Mobility scooter repairs Footcare appointments Large range of mobility aids Hire services Stairlifts FREE Hearing health

check

What's On

Diary Dates AUGUST/SEPT 2015

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, SN16 9BZ Tel:01666 823748 Email: tic@malmesbury.gov.uk

FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING Gatcombe Park, 7th-9th August www.gatcombe-horse.co.uk THE NORTH WILTSHIRE VILLAGE FLOWER CLUB Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month in Crudwell Village Hall at 7.30pm – Contact Gill on 01666 824813 for details MALMESBURY MORRIS meets every Thursday at Corston Reading Room at 7.30pm New dancers and musicians very welcome MOVIES@MALMESBURY Mad Max - Fury Road (15) – Monday 10th August 8pm Minions (CTBC) – Monday 10th August 2pm & Monday 17th August 2pm Mr Holmes (PG) – Monday 17th August 8pm Song of the Sea (PG) – Monday 24th August 2pm & Monday 31st August 2pm Tickets available from Malmesbury Tourist Information Centre or www.oxboffice.com or visit www. malmesbury.gov.uk/cinema.html LINE DANCING Thursdays 7.30-9pm £5 per session in Malmesbury. All welcome! Please call Tracey 07835 467551 to confirm venue SUMMER SUNDAYS AT SEVINGTON VICTORIAN SCHOOL Open every Sunday until 13th September 2–5pm. Home-made afternoon tea, children’s activities and free tours of the school. See article in this magazine for info.

MALMESBURY WRITERS GROUP ‘Malmesbury Writers’ welcome all writers; from beginners to published authors. Our friendly group aims to deliver a supportive environment in all aspects of writing. Our group aims to meet twice monthly, on a Sunday. For more information call Felicia on 07928 104228 BE A #LOCALHERO – HEALS OF MALMESBURY Do something different and fundraise for Heals of Malmesbury Web: www.healsmalmesbury.com/ our-local-heroes.html Tel: 01666 238100 Mob: 07931098347 Email: heals. malmesbury@gmail.com FOLLY TOWER & WOODLAND Faringdon, South West Gloucestershire Aug 2nd & 16th, Sept 6th & 20th and Oct 4th & 18th Tel 0845 475 8386, Free Entry JANE AUSTEN’S BATH Victoria Art Gallery 4th July – 4th Oct 2015 By Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AT 01225 477233 Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 – 5:00 Sunday 1:30 – 5:00, Closed Monday www.victoriagal.org.uk GIFFORDS CIRCUS – MOON SONGS Minchinhampton Common 6th – 17th August. Please call 0845 4597469 to book tickets www.giffordscircus.com MALMESBURY FILM SOCIETY Presents “The Philadelphia Story” Sunday 16th August 7.30pm at St Mary’s Hall. £5 per film or become a member and pay £28 for 12 films MALMESBURY CARNIVAL AND FESTIVAL Through August and into Sept 2015 This year’s Carnival has a packed programme. We have many of your old favourites plus some exciting new events and performers. See www.malmesburycarnival.co.uk/

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

STREET THEATRE WORKSHOPS 24th - 29th August 14:00-17:00 at St Marys Hall Young people will have the opportunity to create their own street theatre characters and pieces and then perform as a group in the Malmesbury Carnival. Young people will be engaged and supported by local professional theatre company ‘The Last Baguette’ , working with the group to develop their own unique comical concepts. There are only 20 spaces available and the project is FREE. MUSIC MANIACS 26th August 10:30-15:30 Giving young people the opportunity to create their own music, learn new instruments or develop their existing skills. These workshops will be a creative environment where young people can share their talents with others and develop music together. There is an opportunity at the end of each day for the young people to do an informal sharing to their family and friends. There are 20 spaces per workshop and the project is FREE. THE GREAT DORSET STEAM FAIR 2015 The National Heritage Show Near Blandford, Dorset 2nd – 6th Sept For further information contact The show office: 01258 860361 DIDMARTON BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL 4th–6th September, Kemble Airport One of the UK’s premier Bluegrass, Americana and Old Time Music Festivals. See inside this magazine. www.didmarton-bluegrass.co.uk TETBURY CLASSIC CAR SHOW 6th Sept 2015 11am - 4pm www.tetburyclassiccarshow.org THE EMERGENCY SERVICES SHOW – 10th Show Sun 13th September, 10am-4pm Hullavington Airfield, Wilts (J17, M4) Adults £6.50, Children under 16 £3.50, Under 3’s Free www.emergencyservicesshow.com

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN OF 3 YEARS AND ABOVE. Ballet, tap modern & jazz classes held in Malmesbury, and Brinkworth. The Little Balloon Company Wiltshire

07791 796223 info@thelittleballoonco.co.uk

www.thelittleballooncompany-wilts.weebly.com

Supplying every kind of Balloons, HandCrafted Wedding Stationery, Wedding Hire Items, Table Decoration & so much more! Tel: Sarah 07753 123368 Or Gill

07729 763759

Web: www.malmesburyandbraywooddance.co.uk E mail: malmesburydance@live.co.uk Find us on Facebook

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Local Focus

Malmesbury Carnival & Festival 2015 July/August/September Malmesbury has been home to a Carnival for over 90 years, and the heart of Carnival is still the procession, which this year is on the 5th September; 6pm onward. The route is up through the town and is always lined with enthusiastic and generous spectators, enjoying the spectacle and invention of the local participants and the wonderful marching bands. Throughout August there will be a range of events to suit all ages and tastes. We have a number of new events this year, as well as old favourites. This year there will also be a Malmesbury Festival of Food and Drink; a week of special events in local restaurants and pubs with a Talks and Tasting evening on August 28th. In addition to all of this there are readings, talks, games and quizzes, films, walks, runs and cycles, a funfair. The full, detailed Festival programme is on the Carnival website, www.malmesburycarnival.co.uk. Tickets for events are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Malmesbury or from the Carnival website.

Do you enjoy good local food? Ales and cider? Listening to live music? Relaxing on or near a beautiful waterway? Then Melksham Food and River Festival is the perfect event for you! Come along to the Littlebrook Centre on Saturday 5th September from 10:30 onwards for a great time at LittleFest. Festival sponsors Waitrose will lead the Regatta themed event with tastings and samplings of locally supplied products. There will also be a number of events supported by Candy Jaxx, CJ’s café and Honey’s that will keep the children entertained. Throughout the day, the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust will be offering boat trips on the river, and Try Canoeing sessions will be available from 3:00pm (you will need to sign up in advance for this). The King George V Playing Field will be the venue for the main event on Sunday 6th September also sponsored by Waitrose Melksham. The event will host over 70 stalls selling a wide array of local food, drink and food related products. Sunday will also see cookery demonstrations, including one by new Melksham Italian venue Casa Restaurant, a fresh fish demonstration by Waitrose, as well as an ‘Anybody WOMAD TICKETS COMPETITION WINNER Ciaran Hart, Hullavington

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Can Cook’ session. Lively Irish tunes will be provided by popular folk band Wessex Contraband. On Sunday, as well as the boat trips and canoeing sessions (again, you will need to sign up beforehand), there will be demonstrations by Bradford on Avon Diving Club, and the Fire Service Water Rescue Team. It is also hoped to have a flotilla of steam and motor powered boats for visitors to enjoy. There will be plenty for the children too, with face painting, a bouncy castle and fairground attractions, along with a celebrity appearance of Frankie the Canal Horse. Join us or a delicious, family weekend of culinary and watery celebrations from 10:30am

Bee and Honey Day 9th August 2015 10.30am

Lacock Abbey, Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LG BEE seen at the bee and honey day at Lacock Abbey and discover fascinating facts about these essential creatures as well as sampling tasty treats. Join Melksham Bee Keepers Association for a fun day of bee-related activities, interesting demonstrations, stalls and refreshments. Normal admission applies. More information call 01249 730459 or visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock.

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

What’s On

Movie by Moonlight

PUZZLE CORNER

Mamma Mia! 30 August 2015 20:30 Royal Victoria Park, Bath Come along and enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment under the stars at The Forever Friends Appeal’s outdoor film screening of Mamma Mia (PG). Entry to the event is free, with all funds raised on the night going towards The Forever Friends Appeal’s RUH Cancer Care Campaign – to help build a pioneering new Cancer Centre for the Royal United Hospital in Bath. The film starts at approximately 8.30pm (or when it gets dark!), but do arrive early to secure a good spot and we recommend that you bring warm clothes and a torch for later in the evening. You’ll be able to grab a bite to eat from one of our fabulous food outlets (hot food and ice cream) in between singing along to the popular hits of Abba. 70’s inspired fancy dress is very much welcome and encouraged on the night! For more information visit www. foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or call 01225 825823

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

ACROSS 7 Voted in, chosen (7) 9 Concepts, notions (5) 10 Affirmative response (3) 11 Outward Behaviour (9) 12 Denigrate, exploit (5) 14 Enlightened, tolerant (7) 16 Analyses, observes (7) 18 Stick, cudgel (5) 19 Mobilising troops (9) 20 Blockade, stopper (3) 21 Bamboo-eating bear-like animal (5) 22 Ice river (7) Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 33.

DOWN 1 A decade (3,5) 2 Chaos, disarray (4) 3 Filling, cloying food (6) 4 Baking soda (abbr) (6) 5 Not a Republican (U.S) (8) 6 Ruler, leader (4) 8 Destroying, breaking (11) 13 Supplanting (8) 15 Monument, feature (8) 17 Line joining points of equal atmospheric pressure on a weather map (6) 18 Tramp, drifter (6) 19 Drug, sedate (4) 20 Trickle, plop (4)

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Sevington School

Summer at Sevington Victorian School

F you’re looking for an outing this summer, then you might like to visit Sevington Victorian School. It’s a delightful little village school, not far from Leigh Delamere, which has survived untouched since it closed, a hundred years ago. You can still see the original teacher’s high desk and chair, the long pupils’ benches, the oil lamp and the books and objects used by the pupils in Victorian times. The school teacher, Miss Elizabeth Squire, presided over the schoolroom for more than sixty years and when she retired, in 1913, she turned the key in the lock and retreated to the school house to live out the rest of her days. And there things stayed, just as she’d left them, for the next 70 years. Today Sevington is open to primary schools, who bring their pupils to take part in historical re-enactments of a Victorian school day. The children dress up in costume and arrive, clutching their Victorian lunch bags, to be met by the stern Miss Squire and her sister, Miss Hannah. In the quiet schoolroom, where the only sound is the ticking clock, Miss Squire introduces the children to Victorian penmanship, and sums with pounds shillings and pence, while Miss Hannah, oversees boot cleaning in the kitchen and candle making in the parlour. The children learn to chant their tables, address the schoolmistress as ma’am and remember their deportment. And, strange though it may seem, most of them love the experience and still remember it years later.

of Queen Victoria. On some Sundays, there may be a chance to meet Miss Squire and learn more about her teaching methods. Home made teas are served in the schoolhouse parlour, and visitors can inspect the kitchen, with its cast iron range, and walk in the little Victorian garden. There’s something for all the family at Sevington. Access is easy with parking available just outside the school. There are some steps but visitors with limited mobility generally find them manageable,

Sevington is a very well kept secret and until recently members of the public had few opportunities to see inside it. This year, thanks to a Lottery Grant it is open to visitors every Sunday afternoon until September. Admission is free and volunteers are on hand to show people round the schoolroom with its slates and inkwells and portraits 14

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

given time and a helping arm. For children, there are traditional toys to play with, and a chance to dress up as a Victorian school child. On 16th August children and adults can take part in the Great Sevington Sewing Bee and the school will be open during Heritage Weekend, Saturday and Sunday 12th and 13th September.

Sevington Victorian School, Grittleton, near Chippenham SN14 7LD Tel: 01225 755713 sevingtonvictorianschool.co.uk

Malmesbury Vics FC

Football

The Monk is Flying!

ELL, IT’S BEEN A HECTIC couple of months since the end of the last season. Hugely successful events have been staged; with the ever popular Beer, Cider and Sausage Festival, and Vic Fest, raising much needed funds for the club. Our final major fundraiser will be our post carnival dance on the 5th September, with ‘Sister Sister’ headlining. Changes have occurred behind the scenes, with last season’s successful manager, Wayne Kibble, moving onto a general managers role, overseeing the running of all four of our teams. Alan Griffin, who returned to the club last season, takes the reins of the first team, with assistant Kevin ‘Ty’ Bridgeman. Club stalwarts, Dave Shepherd and Andy Wicks, will run the second team, bringing with them a wealth of experience. Our development team will have Steve Chadwick at the helm, and will be developing some very promising young local talent. The charismatic Matt Aldridge will continue to coach our ladies, who’ve improved immensely. Innov Solutions Ltd have come on board as our main sponsors, with a view to a long time sponsorship programme. (Thank you Graham and Brendon, your help is immeasurable).

side, in Div 2 of The Football League. At the time of writing, we’ve had one friendly game, against near neighbours Purton FC, and a very creditable 5-4 victory was achieved.

Above: Alan Griffin the new first team Player/Manager. Below: Wayne Kibble, last season’s first team manager is now taking on a General Manager’s role at the Club. Training has been going well; being run by another of our former stars, Andy ‘Freddie’ Sandell, who last season was captaining the Newport County

The pitch has been given some long needed attention, and Chris Exton has performed minor miracles on a shoestring budget. (Well done Chris). So all things are in place for another exciting season, with the lads determined to retain the League Winners Trophy that they won last year. Then promotion? Well it’s definitely a possibility, now that we’ve restructured from the bottom up, and acquired a stable financial footing. If we can retain all our fantastic supporters, the sky’s the limit. Training with The Vics ... every Tuesday and Thursday at 6.45pm ... any 16+yo welcome, at The Flying Monk Ground .... Ladies each Tuesday at 6.15pm

FOOTNOTE Steve Chadwick is seeking a goalkeeper for our U17/18 side ... interested? Call Steve on 07584 207793 The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Football

Tetbury Town Youth FC About Us Tetbury Town Youth Football Club is a Charter Standard Club that provides football to children and young adults aged between 3 and 16. Serving the town of Tetbury and surrounding villages we are recognised for delivering football in a family friendly safe environment for young people to learn and develop their football skills. We encourage participation in all age groups and strive for continuous improvement in our players, coaches and volunteers. Fielding 8 teams from under 7s to under 15s, not forgetting our enthusiastic Tiny Tigers aged 3 to 5. We place a strong emphasis on youth development and looking forward to another terrific season ahead. Qualified Coaches As a Standard Charter Club we adhere to the highest standards set by the Football Association and as a result our coaches led by our UEFA B head coach will have: - Attained a minimum of Level 1 F.A. Coaching certificate. - Possession of a valid Emergency Aid Certificate. - Attended an F.A. Child Welfare course. - Completes an F.A. CRC (Criminal Records Check) as part of responsible recruitment practice. Top-Class Facilities Based at the Recreation Ground in Tetbury our club house can always be found open, serving teas and coffees on match and training days. We have two floodlight training areas in town, one at the recreation ground and the other, Preston park home to our senior team. The Recreation Ground provides excellent playing surfaces for all our youth teams and provides an excellent platform to begin their football journey.

Tetbury Town F.C. Founded 1900

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Social Events Many of our young footballers also join in with the many events we arrange outside of football. Recent team building days out included: - Mud Runner - High Ropes - Army Assault Course - Dry Ski Slope Come and Join Us Tetbury Town Football Club welcomes both boys and girls of all abilities. We want the children to enjoy everything about the game, from training right through to matches. They will learn football skills in a safe and friendly environment, be developed and encouraged to become the best player they can be. We actively encourage the involvement of parents in the running of the club and provide training courses for those interested in coaching, refereeing or first aid. We are inviting enthusiastic and committed children of all abilities to come along and just play. Anyone wishing to join the Club can contact our Chairman – Richard Norris on 07879 441938. Also, look out for training dates, as well as other activities taking place on our Facebook page ‘Tetbury Town Youth FC’ or visit our website - www.tetburytownfc.com We look forward to seeing you!

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TownCr er Your Local Magazine

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The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

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MALMESBURY CIRENCESTER Unit 1, Park Road, Ind Estate, Unit 18, Business Estate, Elliot Road, SN16 0BX Park Road, Malmesbury Cirencester GL7 1YS UnitMalmesbury 1 Park Road Centre, SN16 0BX 01666 825198 01285 642027 Tel: 01666 825198 www.sryall.co.uk ryallsmalm@gmail.com ryallsltd@gmail.com Open: Monday-Friday: 7am-6pm, Saturday: 7am-12pm, Sunday: Closed The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Food & Drink

Crab & Salmon Fish Cakes with Tartare Sauce

PREPARATION TIME: 30 mins + 30 mins chill-time COOKING TIME: 30 mins SERVES: 2 INGREDIENTS

METHOD

For the fishcakes 250g/9oz salmon, poached, flaked, bones removed 150g/5oz white crab meat 150g/5oz brown crab meat 1 tbsp good quality mayonnaise Handful fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped Handful fresh dill, chopped 1 red chilli, finely chopped 1 tsp Dijon mustard Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tbsp olive oil

Preheat the oven to 200C / Gas 6.

For the tartare sauce 4 tbsp good quality mayonnaise 4 small gherkins, finely chopped 1 tbsp capers Handful fresh flat leaf parsley, finely chopped ½ lemon, juice only 1 tsp grated fresh horseradish Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

A light, summer supper

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

For the fishcakes, combine the salmon, white and brown crab meat, mayonnaise, parsley, dill, red chilli and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands to shape portions of the mixture into little balls, then flatten them slightly and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. For the tartare sauce, mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl and season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside. To cook the fishcakes, heat the oil a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Fry the fishcakes in the oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden-brown and crisp. Serve with baby potatoes and wilted spinach, drizzled with a little olive oil, and seasoned, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

. . . s r e v o l e n i w l l a Calling

1-3 Baytree Court, The Chipping, Tetbury GL8 8EU

01666 502262 www.vinotopiawine.co.uk

Wine Selection

by Alan Webb of Vinotopia, Tetbury Crab & Salmon Fish Cakes: There are quite a few bold flavours in these fish cakes so you don’t want a wine that’s going to be too retiring. Our pick would be the Alvi’s Drift Viognier from South Africa – ripe round peach flavours with hints of aromatic notes, it’s still delicate enough not to overwhelm the fish, but will certainly stand up to the dill and tartare sauce. It would also work well if you wanted to add in some Thai herbs and spices instead! £8.75

Orange Cheesecake: You don’t want anything too sweet with a cheesecake, so the Sivipia Moscatel de Setúbal would be perfect. Marmalade and citrus flavours come together with a delicate nuttiness to really complement the flavours of orange and biscuit, while the balanced acidity cuts through the richness of all that butter and cream – delicious! £12.95

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Food & Drink

Orange Cheesecake Serves: 8-10

METHOD

Preparation time: 25 minutes plus chilling time INGREDIENTS 15 digestive biscuits 400g curd or cream cheese

200g mascarpone cheese 100g caster sugar 3 tbsp milk

See our wine recommendation for this recipe on previous page

184ml pot double cream

Melt the butter. Put the biscuits into a bowl and mix in the melted butter. Put the mixture into a 23cm cheesecake tin and use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, press it down firmly to form the base. Put the tin into the fridge to set. This takes about 30 mins. Put the curd or cream cheese, orange zest, mascarpone, sugar and milk into a bowl and mix it well with the wooden spoon.

6 tbsp butter, melted Grated zest 3 oranges (save the segments for the decoration)

Place the biscuits inside a plastic food bag and crush them with a wooden spoon or rolling pin.

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Put the cream in a clean bowl and whisk until it is the consistency of thick custard. Add to the orange mixture and mix thoroughly. Remove the cheesecake tin from the fridge. Pour the filling over the biscuit base and spread evenly. Decorate with fruit (raspberries are delicious but any soft summer fruit will do) then return to the fridge until ready to serve (at least 4 hours or overnight).

Summer Cocktails Is there anything nicer than sipping a cocktail on a warm summer evening in the garden? People can be very coy about cocktails, yet many are not complicated and are a great way to impress guests. So here are three perfect, refreshing cocktails; two alcoholic and one for non-drinkers.

The Mojito - serves 4 Ice cubes 6fl oz light rum 4 whole and 8 broken mint sprigs 6 tbsp fresh lime juice 4 tbsp sugar Club soda 4 slices lime Place the ice in a beverage shaker. Add the rum, the 8 broken mint sprigs, the lime juice and the sugar. Shake well and pour over ice in tall glasses. Top up each glass with club soda to taste. Garnish with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. Serve.

The Sea Breeze - serves 1 Ice cubes 2 fl oz vodka 2 fl oz cranberry juice 2fl oz fresh grapefruit juice Lime wedge

The Shirley Temple - serves 1

Fill a tall glass with ice.

Ice Grenadine Ginger Ale 2 lemon wedges Fill a tall glass with ice.

Pour the vodka, cranberry and grapefruit juices over the ice.

Pour a couple of dashes of grenadine over and top up with ginger ale.

Stir gently, squeeze the lime into the drink then drop it into the glass. Serve.

Squeeze the lemon wedges over then drop into the glass. Serve. The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Home

Visualising Improvements to your Home by Craig Alexander, Architectural Designer at Lacey Alexander Design

HEN planning to renovate, extend or improve your home or install a new bathroom or kitchen, given the significant financial and emotional investment it can pay dividends to invest in initial 3D images. These images can greatly assist in visualising the spaces and changes- given today's computing power, they do not have to be expensive or the preserve of large projects and corporate developments. Lacey Alexander Design can assist with visualising most home improvements, from a new kitchen, extension or new-build project! Design Options - Making an Informed Choice and Visualising Spaces When planning changes and improvements to your home, how the alterations look and feel is just as important as how the spaces work on plan, however many people struggle to imagine how 2D drawings will translate into 3D space- having a set of realistic, computer-generated images can really assist in 'inhabiting' the space before the first brick is laid! This can be particularly beneficial, when considering different design options- from different cladding materials, extension footprints, interior layouts right down to different lighting designs, all can be quickly 24

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

and easily produced and compared to allow your family to make an informed decision on what works best for you, and your home. Quick, Sketchy Options - When Buying a new Home Often, when buying a new home, people have plans and ideas as to how to improve, extend or customise the house to best suit their families' needs. Rather than investing in a full set of drawings (particularly if the purchase isn't' a certainty before contracts are exchanged) 3D visuals can be a really useful tool to sketch out options and explore how the house would look with an extension, new kitchen or remodelled interior- in a much more accessible and comprehendible format than flat, 2D drawings. Light, Shadows and Materials Lacey Alexander have invested much time, skills and software into supplementing initial sketch designs with '3D' computer models and images, helping you appreciate how the spaces will look and feel, before committing to the time and cost of having full drawings commissioned, these can be particularly useful if you find it difficult to understand how spaces will work, and how the character of the flat

drawings will be in reality- from light levels, shadows, colours and textures of materials, to different styles of interiors and fittings, computer images can provide life-like representations of various options. This feedback loop of design options may also involve the planning office in the form of 'pre application advice', if planning permission is required, to ensure the project meets with their expectations, potentially saving time and money further down the line. We also regularly provide sketch images for people in the process of buying, or selling their homeproviding the opportunity to visualise potential changes and extensions which could be made to a property, without the significant investment in a set of paper drawings, which often don't show the potential improvements in their best light. Getting Everyone on board with your Plans 3D images can be a useful tool for engaging others in the design process, whether ensuring all of your family understand and get-behind your design ambitions, to assisting to convince a neighbour that the proposals are agreeable- from viewing any extensions from the garden, or modelling light and shadowing impacts to neighbouring properties. They can also be a useful discussion tool when involving planning officers or conservation department, if you live in a more challenging listed property or conservation area.

Selling your Ideas Much like our service when purchasing a property, we can provide 3D visuals of granted planning permissions, which have not yet been built. Selling a house with planning permission can be a really quick and easy way of adding value to your home, without the significant cost and disruption of going ahead and building the design. However, in order to appreciate the potential included with the planning approval, a set of 3D visuals can really 'sell' the development to potential buyers, making sure they can imagine how the space could work for them, which flat and formal planning drawings often fail to convey. The Next Step - Getting Started! Lacey Alexander will happily provide 3D visualisations as a stand-alone service, helping you get started developing the early thoughts of your plans for your home without the commitment to a full set of drawings, or a planning application. We can also use visualisations as a starting point for your options regarding improving your home, from getting the layout to work for you, through to extensions and other improvements, feel free to give Verity or Craig at Lacey Alexander Design a call, to chat through your options, or to arrange a free site visit to discuss your requirements. Lacey Alexander Design, Tel: 01225 832840 www.laceyalexander.co.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Summer Gardening

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

The Greenhouse Guide P

EOPLE often ask me, “Is there something in your garden you couldn’t live without?” My reply is always, “My greenhouse.”

A greenhouse has many benefits, chief of which for me is that it extends the gardening year. With a greenhouse you can potter in your garden all year round, and grow a range of plants which simply wouldn’t thrive without the extra protection. Before choosing a greenhouse you will need to check whether your local planning authority imposes any restrictions. While you don’t normally need planning permission, building regulations do have to be adhered to. Buy the biggest greenhouse you can afford that will fit comfortably on to your plot - you will always fill it! But even if you can only afford a tiny one - my first one had a base of just 4’ by 5.5’ (1.2m by 1.7m) it will still be a worthwhile investment. The aluminium- framed types are very sturdy and relatively cheap. Wooden-framed constructions are more attractive though, and often better in a small garden where everything has to earn its keep. Western red cedar is good because it lasts a long time and weathers really well. Greenhouses are even more useful if they are heated. I started out with paraffin heaters, but found they produced a lot of condensation and were messy and smelly. Electric heating is best, and very economical if you fit a system thermostat so that it only switches on when necessary.

Apart from heat the most important factor is ventilation. In high summer this is vital to prevent your plants from cooking. Automatic arms which open the vents at a pre-designated temperature are really useful. External blinds are also very good as they prevent sun scorch. Finally, fit staging along one edge of the greenhouse for your pots, and dig a soil or gravel bed on the other side for things like tomato plants. Now all you have to do is plant some seeds and invest in a few tender perennials.

by Rachel Leverton HOU GREAT GREEN

SE TIPS

l foundations. nhouse to leve • Fit your gree t , but make isn’t importan e house, or • Orientation ow e shad of th sure it isn’t in th ees. overhanging tr l. • Ventilate wel carried out or work must be al ic tr n to comply • Any elec ified electricia al qu a by ed certifi gulations. the building re of P rt pa ith w usehold pted to use a ho the damp • Don’t be tem w won’t cope ith It . er at he ic tr elec greenhouse. conditions in a pipes at either tt to the down ve water. • Fit a water bu ouse to conser nh ee gr e th of end The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Summer Gardening

Water without the guilt by Rachel Leverton

HO REMEMBERS their dad hosing the garden on warm summer evenings? We always seemed to have a lush lawn when I was a child, apart from the summer of 1976 when hosepipes were banned and we all used stand-pipes for weeks.

But gardens need water to survive so what can we do?

However, if you want to make the most of your saved water then irrigation systems are the best choice. They typically reduce the amount of water you use by 7090%, which is a huge saving. Here are a few tips for getting the best from an irrigation system. Ground preparation is really important. Dig in lots of homeproduced compost, well rotted horse manure, or spent mushroom compost. This organic matter will help the soil retain any moisture it receives.

Well the truth is, we have more than enough water in the UK to sustain an average garden, but it tends to fall in the winter when all the plants are dormant.

Make sure the irrigation lines run under the tips of the branches rather than at the base of the plant. This will water the roots more efficiently.

But nowadays hosepipes are the horticultural equivalent of a bad taste joke: out of style and somewhat frowned upon.

A water butt is a simple, economical solution for most urban gardens. Butts will catch the rainwater from your gutter and store it until itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s required. They typically hold between 100 and 300 litres depending on size.

You can now buy huge rainwater tanks which hold up 1000 litres and are great if you have the space. There are also underground storage tanks which hold over 2500 litres! With special attachments, stored rainwater can be fed into hoses and sprinklers, so you can use them guilt-free.

Make sure you mulch. Mulch can be a membrane, gravel, bark chips or cocoa shells. The aim is to keep moisture in the soil. I favour organic mulches because they gradually rot down and can be dug in to improve the soil texture further. A few simple measures will ensure that your garden stays green this summer without costing the earth!

Plants for Dry Spaces Alliums - the huge ones look great Cistus - Rock Rose Euphorbia - my favourite, very architectural Helianthemum - Sun Rose Lavender - plant near patios for the fragrance Santolina Sedum - almost indestructible! Senecio - the sunshine plant Thyme 28

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Summer Gardening

Ladybird, Ladybird . . . Keep looking after our gardens for us!

AST weekend my husband and I spent a long overdue day tidying the garden. During our labours I became intrigued by the number of ladybirds populating the leaves and bushes, which made me curious about the world of this mini beast.

Popular with children and adults alike, I wondered how much we actually know about them and thought I’d do a little research. The ladybird is actually a member of the beetle family and its scientific name is Coccinellidae, meaning ‘little red sphere’. There are over 42 different species in the UK, the most common being the bright red variety that has seven spots and is thought to have given the insect its name: “Lady” referring to the Virgin Mary (Our Lady) who in early paintings is seen wearing a red cloak, and the seven spots being symbolic of the seven joys and seven sorrows of Mary.

The ladybird starts life as a tiny, shiny, yellow egg, laid in a cluster on a leaf from late spring into summer. Each egg hatches to release a small, black, 6-legged larva which eats greedily and increases in size by shedding its skin three times in its lifetime. The full grown larva eventually attaches itself to a leaf and forms a pupa, from which the adult beetle emerges 1-2 weeks later. Beetles and larvae feed through the summer and ladybirds that hatch early will produce a new generation of beetles during mid to late summer. During its short life span, a ladybird will lay around one thousand eggs. When the colder weather comes it looks for somewhere warm to hibernate for the winter, where it may stay for up to nine months. Very few will survive to hibernate a second winter - one year is the common life span of a ladybird. They emerge from hibernation in late March to April, to feed and mate and begin the process all over again! Ladybirds have brightly coloured wings which beat about 85 times per second while flying. The wings are also used to warn off predators. In times of danger, ladybirds are able to roll over and play dead. They secrete a fluid from the joints in their legs that gives off a foul tasting fluid that prevents their enemies from finishing them off! Ladybirds are a gardener’s friend and should be made welcome as they are one of the best deterrents against garden pests. They eat aphids (tiny soft-bodied insects) that destroy foliage and plants such as roses and tomatoes, their particular favourite being greenfly. They also eat small caterpillars, mealy bugs, mites and even some scale insects. A ladybird will consume around 5000 aphids during its lifetime.

by Debbie Singh-Bhatti 30

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

National Allotments Week D 10th-16th August

URING WORLD WAR II and immediately afterwards, almost everyone with a garden grew fruit and vegetables. Food was rationed so people supplemented their diet with produce they’d grown in their own back garden, or down on their allotment.

To me the very word ‘allotment’ evokes memories of my granddad and post-war community spirit. During the 1960s allotments began to go out of fashion and continued to decline in popularity until very recently. As a society we were more affluent; more likely to buy what we needed from the local supermarket, and vegetable gardening just wasn’t considered sexy! There’s an old saying: what goes around comes around, and it encapsulates perfectly the fate of allotments which are currently enjoying a popularity surge.

Yet modern housing often means tiny back gardens and frequently no front garden, so where are we going to grow all this lovely produce? The answer of course is to acquire an allotment and many people are doing just that.

ALLOTMENT BENEFITS

Diet - You can harvest fresh, organic, fruit and veg Economic - You’ll save loads of money growing your own

To join them simply approach your council. Price and availability varies around the country. In some areas there are waiting lists. But councils are taking allotments much more seriously and many are actively seeking to provide new sites. If a plot is too large for your personal needs you may be able to rent half or find a like-minded friend to share it with. Enquire today and you and your family could soon, quite literally, be reaping the benefits!

Environmental - Recycling organic waste into compost, reducing food miles and creating a wildlife-friendly habitat Health - Great for aerobic exercise and therapeutic calm Social - It’s a brilliant way to meet friendly, like-minded people of all ages. Useful Website: www.nsalg.org.uk

by Rachel Leverton

Suddenly we’re concerned about food in a big way. The number of food banks is growing as families struggle to put even the most basic provisions on the table. There are concerns about additives and pesticides on shop-bought fruit and veg, while the cost of organic food puts it out of the reach of the masses. And what about all those thousands of food-miles our strawberries and courgettes clock up on their journey to the supermarket shelves? Surely that’s damaging the environment. Then there’s the thorny problem of childhood obesity. The list of food-related concerns seems to be growing exponentially. In the absence of clear leadership from the top, many of us are taking matters into our own hands, deciding to emulate our grandparents and grow our own food. The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

Books

A Good Read

Eating for England Nigel Slater

................................................ Subtitled ‘The Delights and Eccentricities of the British at Table’, this is an extended love letter to British food over the last forty years. If you have fond memories of sharing a box of Black Magic at Christmas or spooning jam over school rice pudding, then this is for you. Anyone who owns one of Nigel Slater’s cookbooks will know that there is as much pleasure to be had from reading the recipes as there is from following them. He writes about food with passion, knowledge and honesty, admitting his fondness for Heinz Tomato Ketchup, Smarties and other non-gastronomic treats. Here, he devotes short chapters (often no more than a paragraph or two) to a whole range of peculiarly British delights. Some are drawn from childhood memories, such as his father’s unsuccessful experiment with a coffee percolator (it ends up packed away next to the Christmas tree lights) or his mother’s blancmanges. Others are more contemporary and tells of the delight to be had from a visit to the fishmonger or the ritual of a Saturday farmers’ market. All are well written, funny and evocative. Whether you read this from cover to cover, or simply scan the chapter headings for whatever takes your fancy, this is a perfect book for thinking about food – and despite Slater’s reservations the last chapter will probably send you out to the shops for a packet of Pink Wafers! Review by Kath Bennett

The Poison Tree Erin Kelly

.......................................... Finding your way in the world after leaving school can be daunting, and for Karen this is no different. A language student at a college in London she has a chance encounter with Biba, an exotic and bohemian student, and Karen’s life will never be the same again. Biba lives with her brother Rex in a crumbling gothic style townhouse in London, with a lifestyle that could not be further from the suburban humdrum that Karen grew up in. She is drawn to these two siblings 32 32

The The Town Town Crier Crier Magazine Magazine || AUGUST AUGUST 2015 2015

and so begins a summer of freedom, cheap wine, experimental drugs and sexual adventures. The lure of Biba’s personality is tremendous and Karen clearly aspires to be like her. Then, one day, their idyllic summer comes crashing to a halt. Karen learns the truth of Biba and Rex’s family life and an unexpected visitor leads to tragedy. A more mature Karen looks back on the events of that summer ten years later as she comes to terms with her role in everything. As a reader, you know from the start that something is going to happen. Like a car crash in slow motion you can see it coming as Karen absorbs more and more of Biba’s exotic nature. Yet, when the author brings things to a climax you are thrown, dazed and shocked, along with Karen, in a debut novel that will stay with you long after you close it for the final time.

The Maze Runner James Dashner

........................................................ Post-apocalyptic and dystopian literature seems to be all the rage in the Young Adult fiction market these days. Hot on the heels of the successful Hunger Games and Divergent trilogies comes The Maze Runner. Initially published in 2009 it came to prominence with the release of the film adaptation in 2014. Thomas is a teenager who awakes to find himself in a box in a place called the Glade. He has no memory of who he is or how he came to be here, but he is thrown into this new community, and as a reader so are you. Before long you become familiar with the terminology used by the boys and you feel as if you are a Glader along with them. As Thomas adjusts to his new home he learns about the Maze which surrounds the Glade. Each day the walls open and a select group of runners spend daylight hours exploring and mapping it. It is a race against the clock because at sunset the Grievers – giant robotic creatures – enter the Maze and they are deadly. The walls close to protect the community and overnight the structure of the Maze changers, leaving the runners to start again in the morning. The big mystery is why. Why are Thomas and the other boys there and why do the Grievers come out to get them? Why do the walls in the Maze change and will the runners ever solve it. However, more importantly why has a girl been sent to the Glade and why has all communication with the outside world suddenly stopped? Reviews by Willow Coby

Death, Dynamite and Disaster Rosa Matheson

......................................................................................... The coming of the Railway Age was also the coming of the Railway Accident. They brought excitement and travelling freedom, but they also brought mayhem, trauma, danger and death. Nowadays we do not travel anticipating accidents, but in the infancy and toddler-times of railways such was their frequency, that they gave rise to an entrepreneurial opportunity for the introduction of travel insurance for death and injury. In August 1863 The Saturday Review wrote: “As soon as ever the excursion trains begin to run plentifully, the accidents follow in like proportion...’the railway accident season’ has begun..” This book brings a ‘fly-on-the-wall’ account of some famous accidents such as that of William Huskisson MP, at the opening the Manchester & Liverpool Railway and the disastrous Tay Bridge Disaster as well as lesser known ones like the crash at Hexthorpe when the the Manchester, Sheffield & Lincolnshire Railway daily express train travelling from Liverpool to Hull smashed into Midland Railway’s Race Day Special for Doncaster’s Gold Cup, using victim statements, newspaper articles, and official reports.

The coming of the railways brought technology and industrial development, but it also brought destruction and devastation as it razed towns, villages and churchyards to make way for its stations, hotels and Works. This chapter makes gruesome and almost unbelievable reading. Most people associate dynamite and railways with their construction, blasting cuttings and tunnels, but in this book the dynamite is in relation to the first terrorist’s attacks on the railways and the underground in the late 19th Century. It charts the development of dynamite, the ‘Decade of Dynamite’ in the 1880s and the way it became the Fenians’ ‘weapon of choice’ for their British bombing campaign. Few know that the first death from bombings on the underground was that of Harry Pitts back in 1897. This believed to be, but unproven, the work of anarchists. The book is written by local author Dr Rosa Matheson, Swindon’s best known railway historian and differs from her usual work on the Great Western Railway. It is available on-line, from bookshops such as Pen & Paper Old Town, Swindon, or for a signed and dedicated copy contact the author on 01793 764979.

Foot Health Care www.foot-health-care.co.uk

Sina Ohms MCFHP MAFHP Foot Health Practitioner Corns-Nail Trimming-Verrucae-Hard SkinAthlete’s Foot-Ingrown Toenails-Nail InfectionsCracked Heels (Fissures)-Nail Cutting The Chippenham Natural Therapy Centre T:01249 443390 The Oxford Practice, Malmesbury T:01666 824 560 Home Visits T: 01666 838683 M:07593324128

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 12

Experts in all building works, renovations, conversions, decorating, kitchens and bathrooms for your home or business enquiries@priorandcompany.com The Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF

www.priorandcompany.com Prior and Marden joint advert.indd 1

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

ADVERTORIAL

Summer Hazards for Pets Dr Sarah Long BVSc MRCVS

Whilst the summer is a great time to get outside with your pets there are a few things to watch out for. Heatstroke Signs of heatstroke in dogs and cats include excessive panting, salivation, distressed behaviour and collapse. Older or overweight pets, or those with conditions such as heart disease, laryngeal paralysis or asthma are more at risk. If you think your pet has heatstroke you can: • Provide cool water or add ice cubes to their water bowl • Use a fan to provide cool air • Keep them in the shade • Cover them with wet towels • Contact your vet if symptoms are severe or don’t resolve quickly

Avoid heatstroke by exercising your dog during the cooler parts of the day (e.g. first thing in the morning or late evening) and always have water available to drink. And please never leave your pet in a car during warm weather; even with the windows down the temperature inside the car will quickly exceed that outside the vehicle – it’s distressing for the pet and potentially fatal. Insect bites and stings Most bites or stings will cause a small red swelling in the skin but occasionally they can result in a swelling of the face and neck leading to excessive itching or discomfort. Very rarely your pet can have an allergic reaction and show symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or distress. Contact your vet immediately if you are concerned. BBQs As tempting as it is to share titbits from your BBQ it can cause problems for any pet. Unfamiliar or fatty foods can cause an upset stomach and hot food can cause scalding of the mouth and throat. Ensure your pet doesn’t have access to any alcohol or articles that won’t pass easily through the gut such as corn cobs, cooked bones (these can shatter easily) or kebab sticks. If your pet is sitting in the sun they may need protection with a pet-safe sunscreen. White animals or those with exposed pink skin are most at risk. Fly Strike Don’t forget your rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets this summer. Fly strike is caused when flies lay eggs on your pet and the hatching maggots eat the skin and underlying tissues. It is a very painful condition that can develop in just a few hours and can cause death if not treated urgently. Contact your vet as soon as you notice your pet has fly strike. To help prevent it you can: • Check your pet’s bottom and above the tail at least twice daily • Make sure they are clean and dry • Check for and remove dirty bedding • Apply a product to help stop flies laying eggs • Check there is nothing preventing your pet from grooming such as obesity, arthritis or dental disease

Illustrating a typical microchip’s size in relation to rice 34

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

• Contact your veterinary practice for further advice on any of these topics and make the most of our British summer, while it lasts!

www.georgevetgroup.co.uk 01666 823165

Wilts Electrical Contracting Ltd,

Unit 10 Harris Road, Porte Marsh Industrial Estate, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9PT, TEL: 01249 812850, Email: enquiries@weclimited.co.uk www.weclimited.co.uk

FOR ALL YOUR RENEWABLE AND ELECTRICAL NEEDS

CALL US NOW FOR INFORMATION ON OUR SPECIAL SUMMER OFFERS The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015

VEHICLE SALES • SERVICING • REPAIRS • MOT • HIRE VEHICLES V FO EH R ICL HI ES RE

YOUR LOCAL HIRE CENTRE Becoming the United Rental System licensee for the Malmesbury area enables us to offer a professional and flexible approach to car and van rental. We have a growing fleet of modern low mileage well maintained vehicles with flexible hire options at competitive prices. We can even pick you up or deliver a vehicle to your home or place of work as part of our great service.

• SERVICING • REPAIRS • MOTS • EXHAUSTS • BATTERIES • TYRES

YOUR LOCAL BOSCH CAR SERVICE CENTRE

NEAR RY, MALMESBU TETBURY & ER CIRENCEST

• CAR AND VAN HIRE • VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS • AIRCON RE-GAS, SERVICING AND REPAIR

Crudwell Garage is a long-standing Bosch Car Service Centre – giving you high quality car servicing and diagnostic capability in the Malmesbury, Tetbury and Cirencester area. We have huge experience of servicing cars and vans, whatever the make and model, from Ford to Renault, Mini to 4×4 Land Rovers, you can trust us to service your car properly. Crudwell Garage is also a specialist repair shop for VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, and Vauxhall.

YOUR LOCAL TYRE FAST FIT CENTRE

• ENGINE INDUCTION SYSTEM SPECIALIST CLEANING

As part of the Bosch Car Service Centre tyre program we can offer a large range of car, van and 4×4 tyres at competitive prices. All tyres are fitted and balanced using the latest Bosch tyre fitting and wheel balancing equipment.

We are conveniently placed on the main road – A429 in Crudwell, just outside Malmesbury and within easy reach of Tetbury, Charlton, Oaksey, Hankerton, Minety and surrounding villages on the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire borders.

OPENING HOURS Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 5:30pm Saturday: Sales by appointment Sunday : Sales by appointment

• POWER STEERING SERVICING

Crudwell Garage Ltd, Crudwell, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9EU Tel: (01666) 577242 www.crudwellgarageltd.co.uk 36

The Town Crier Magazine | AUGUST 2015