Calne tc april 17 small

Covering CALNE, CHIPPENHAM and villages

Your Local

www.towncriermagazine.com

TownCr er Magazine

FREE

APRIL 2017

Photo: chriswatkinsmedia.co.uk

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Airbase Appeal AM

AUTOCARE

OPTION ONE

OIL & FILT

ER CHANG

Coolant Inspection

Electrical Inspection

Exhaust System Check

See page 5 for details

SERVICE

Steering & Suspension Check Brake Fluid Test

AM

AutoCare

01249 816706

MAUNDRELL ROAD, PORTE MARSH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, CALNE, WILTSHIRE SN11 9PU

see page 61

OPTIONS

£89.00

E + M OT £ 99 Body Inspection

Grass cutting from £12

SERVICE YOUR CAR FROM JUST

Tyre Inspection

Oil & Filter Change

New Term and Taster Session Bookings now open See page 55

50% OFF*

ALL MAKES & MODELS

inclu

APRIL –

sive

£145.00

JUNE 2 017 £179.00 GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 Janua

FREE

DIAGNOSTICS

OPTION TWO As Option One PLUS: Remove Wheels & Check Front Brakes Replace Air Filter. Emissions Test INCLUSIVE

COURTESY CAR AVAILABLE

MOT RE-TESTS Within 10 working days

OPTION THREE As Option One & Two PLUS: Change Spark Plugs, Rear Brake Check. Gearbox Fluid Check

INCLUSIVE

AVAILABLE ON MOST MAKES OF VEHICLE

Your Local Independent Garage For Calne Some makes and models may be excluded, please call for details

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017 1 LOCAL NEWS l FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUTY l MOTORING l HOME & GARDEN l PETS

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

A New Kitchen this Spring EST.

1999

Before

®

Why replace when you can reface?

• Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps • From a simple door swap to a complete kitchen refit • UK manufactured products • The whole process managed from design to completion 2

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

CALL IAN NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

01793 213021 dreamdoors.co.uk Visit our showroom: 108 High St, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU

Proud to be part of the

A selection of our finest

Thermaglaze family

warmcore - when you’re not ready to shut out a wonderful day Clearglaze installs the most energy efficient, most attractive aluminium products on the market.

Find out more at clearglazewindows.co.uk Clearglaze installs the most elegant, most energy efficient solid roof systems for all year round use!

Find out more at clearglazewindows.co.uk

a practical conservatory to keep you COOL in the summer & WARM in the winter IF AN INTRUDE R BREAKS INTO YOUR HOME BY SN ULTION WILL PA APPING Y YOU £1000

Clearglaze installs the most beautiful, most secure solid core composite doors on the market.

Find out more at clearglazewindows.co.uk

the best of British

Clearglaze installs the stunning R9 uPVC window and door system, designed to authentically replicate 19th century timber designs.

Find out more at clearglazewindows.co.uk

Visit our showroom for a coffee and a browse

FREE QUOTE

01225 425211

CERTASS APPROVED INSTALLATIONS

if it’s NOT a SOLID CORE, it’s NOT a SOLID-DOOR!

32 Shaftesbury Road, Monday to Friday Saturday Oldfield Park, Bath, BANES, BA2 3LJ

9AM - 5PM 9AM - 1PM

Sunday/Bank Holidays - By Appointment

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

3

APRIL 2017

60

Editor’s Letter Welcome to April!

the Easter Spring has finally sprung, and with ty to look holidays falling in April there is plen k the What's forward to this month! Please chec ... and for an do to On section for ideas of things Hot Cross for e recip the Easter treat, why not try ge Fud c Cho er East the Buns on page 36 and 38. e Cupcakes on pag to visit The Town Crier team were privileged in rs arte dqu Wiltshire Air Ambulance hea e of the som the with t Devizes recently, to mee ut the abo out find and e ther k people who wor le artic the see se Plea do. they k incredible wor new a for s in the centre pages about their plan raising fund is r Crie n Tow The 8.

201 in ase Airb ned plan ts even for WAA this year, with several in walk ed nsor spo our see page 6 for details of Pet ily Fam our of ils deta June and page 24 for Calendar Until next time ...

Annie

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine

5b Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the May 2017 issue: 6th April 2017

Editor: contact@towncriermagazine.com Advertising: contact@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.

4

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

MAGAZINE SECTIONS Local Focus and What’s On

6-32

Food & Drink

36-39

Health & Beauty

46-55

Pets 56-57 Motoring

58-59

Gardening 60-65 Building & Home Improvement Index of Advertisers

69-77 78

46

48

Happy Easter Sunday 16th April

36

New Client Offer 50% Off All Services* *Terms and Conditions Apply Offer ends 30th April 2017

THIS APRIL ISSUE

6

Local Focus

Local News and Events

56 Pets Choosing a Pet (Part 1)

34 Puzzle Corner Crossword & Sudoku

58 Motoring

36 Recipe

60 Gardening

Easter Choc Fudge Cakes Hot Cross Buns

42 Travel Spring is in the air

2017 Honda Civic Fuchsia Perfect

64 Rev Sam King Made Complete

66 A Good Read The Guilty One and A

46 Technology The Internet of Things

48 Emmy Butcher Discussing Dementia

68 Jo Deacon Easter Fete

Series of Unfortunate Events

Free Easter Egg** WITH ANY CHILD'S HAIRCUT 12th – 19th April **Subject to availability.

Child is age 0-16 years 7 Wood Street, Calne, SN11 0BZ 01249 819858 www.hmhairdressing.co.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

5

ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

Local Focus APRIL 2017

What’s happening locally • News • Events • Charities • Clubs

The Town Crier team visiting WAA headquarters in Devizes.

Town Crier Sponsored Walk Sunday 4th June, 10.30 am, Devizes

The Town Crier Magazine invites you to join us on our Walk on 4th June at 10.30 in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance. The walk will start at Caen Hill Locks Cafe on the canal, Devizes and take us along the canal through Devizes to Horton. The return route will take us through Devizes where we will be collecting for this very worthy cause. There will also be a refreshment stop!!! The round trip is 12.110 km / 7.57 miles. Please call us on 01249 811068 if you need directions or would like any further information.

If you are taking part in the walk or would just like to make a donation please visit our Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/The-Town-CrierMagazine. Hope to see you on Sunday 4th June! r Local ToMYouw nCr er agazine Covering CALNE,

FREE

APRIL 2017

gazine.com

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Airbase Appeal

media.co.uk

Photo: chriswatkins

Visit our website: www.towncriermagazine.com

AM

OIL &

AUTOC ARE

OPTIO

N ONE

FILTER

Oil & Filter Change

CHANGE

Coolant Inspection Electrical Inspection Exhaust System Check

AM

+ MOT

AutoC

LOCAL NEWS

See page 5 for

Body Inspection Brake Fluid Test

are 012 49 816 706

details

New Term and Taster Session Bookings now open See page 55

£99

inclus

INCLUSIVE

COURTESY

see page 61

CAR

AVAILABL E MOT RE-TE Within 10 STS working days

ALL MAKES & MODELS

– JUNE 2017 £17 9.00 GAR_697653.p

OPTION THREE As Option One Change Spark & Two PLUS: Plugs, Rear Check. Gearbox Brake Fluid Check

df 13:49:24 INCLUSIVE January

DIAGNOSTICS

AVAILABLE

ON MOST

please call for details

l MOTORING The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL l HOME & GARDEN2017l 1 PETS

The Calne & District Community Link Scheme urgently require a volunteer to assist our existing tearn of co-ordinators. This role which can be carried out from home by telephone provides the vital connection between our volunteers and those in the community who rely on the transport and caring services we provide. Being part of the team, you can be assured that he existing coordinators will give you all the support required, and all the costs involved are financed by the scheme.

07715 587604

YOUR CAR FROM JUST

APRIL

ive

OPTION TWO As Option One Remove WheelsPLUS: & Check Front Replace Air Brakes Filter. Emissions Test

£145.00

FREE

CO-ORDINATOR URGENTLY REQUIRED

For further information please call

Grass cutting from £12

OPTIO NS

£89.00 SERVICE

MAKES OF Your Local VEHICLE Indepe ndent Some makes Garage For and models Calne may be excluded,

l FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

50% OFF*

SERVI CE

Tyre Inspection Steering & Suspension Check

MAUND PORTE MARSH RELL ROAD, INDUST CALNE, WILTSHIRE RIAL ESTATE, SN11 9PU

6

villages

www.towncrierma

Read Town Crier Magazine online

CHIPPENHAM and

CALNE & DISTRICT COMMUNITY LINK SCHEME

15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah

Trade in your weight-loss approach to Weight Watchers in

Calne & Chippenham today

Move over to the most liveable plan, for a full month’s membership FREE at your local meeting today*

No food is off limits!

Claire, Cirencester

Visit weightwatcherslocal.co.uk or call 0345 677 7788 to find your nearest meeting *1.Join Weight Watchers as a Meeting + Online member between Sunday 19th March and Saturday 8th April 2017 and you will be entitled to a free month if you bring along any materials, which have a monetary value for example a recipe book or memberships card from any other weight loss plan. 2.You must give the materials to the Coach in your first meeting. These materials will be kept by the Coach in order to provide the free months Weight Watchers membership. Following the first free month Meetings + Online Subscriptions will automatically renew at the standard monthly rate (currently ÂŁ21.45) until you cancel. For Meetings + Online purchases made in a meeting activation needs to be completed on our website. 3.Offer open to New members only. 4.Offer open to UK residents (excluding Channel Islands & Northern Ireland) who are 18 years and over. 5.One claim per person for new members and is non- transferable. The offer cannot be combined with other offers. 6.Offer is subject to availability. Weight Watchers reserve the right to change, amend or cancel this offer at any time. 7. Offer available in selected postcodes, see weightwatcherslocal.co.uk to check if your local meeting is included in the offer.

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

7

What’s On

Diary Dates MARCH 2017

i

CALNE HERITAGE CENTRE Cyril H Thomas Ltd and W E Beint and Sons Ltd.: the story of two family firms. Until 30th April 2017.

Entry Free. Opening times: Wed-Sat 10.00-4.00 Sunday 2.00-4.00 CALNE SPRING SING Saturday 8th April , 10.30am – 3.30pm Calne Town Centre Free entry. A variety of choirs performing in venues across Calne town centre, ending with choirs and spectators joining for a ‘Big Sing’ finale. Enjoy two hours free parking at Calne Heritage Quarter car park, accessed from the A4, where you can also choose to park for the whole day. www.calne.gov.uk PALM SUNDAY SERVICE Sunday 9th April , 10am St Mary's Church, Calne Including an appearance from a real donkey!

BOWOOD EASTER TRAIL Friday 14th to Monday 17th April, 11am to 5pm Visit Bowood House and Gardens this Easter to take part in an Easter Bunny Trail through the beautiful grounds. Arrive anytime between 11am and 5pm and follow the Easter Bunnies route, discovering all that he has dropped along the way! Children's Easter activities will be taking place throughout the day, keep an eye out for a bunny's fluffy tail! Enjoy Bowood's famous Adventure Playground and meet the new arrivals at Tractor Ted's Little Farm. www.bowood.org EASTER WITH THE MAD HATTER AND FRIENDS IN CHIPPENHAM! Saturday 15th April 2017 Chippenham will be taking a trip to Wonderland on Saturday 15th April – where we'll see a tremendously egg-citing day full of fun with the merry Mad Hatter and his fantastic friends! Free events for all the family will take over the town as we tiptoe through the looking glass past the fun-loving Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the enigmatic Giant Caterpillar, the Bunny Girls and 8

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

many moreYou'll find bags of fun at Borough Parade with face painting, balloon modelling and themed games PLUS plenty of madness with the Mad Hatter himself at the Main Stage in The Market Place; featuring special guests, local acts, arts and crafts, competitions and giveaways as well as picnic tables and lunch-time offers for everyone to enjoy. There will even be a prize for the best dressed on the day… so get creative with your costumes!

Of course, it wouldn't be Easter without meeting the Easter Bunny who will be making his way to Emery Gate Shopping Centre CALNE TOWN HALL MOVIOLA Wednesday 26th April. At 7.30pm A STREETCAT NAMED BOB’ (12a).

This is based on an international best seller, the true story of Jamie Bowen a recovering drug addict who had his life transformed when he met a stray cat. Starring Luke Treadway and Joanne Froggatt.

Showing in Calne Town Hall on.

Doors open at 7.00. Refreshments available. Tickets £6.00 from the Information centre or on the door.

2017 ROTARY CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC Wednesday 26th April, 2017 at Manor House Golf Club, Castle Combe We are all looking forward to welcoming you to the Rotary Club of Chippenham’s 2017 Rotary Golf Classic.

BIG SCREEN BEVERSBROOK Friday 28th April 8pm Beversbrook Sports & Community Facility, Calne, SN11 9FL ARRIVAL (12A) When mysterious spacecraft touch down across the globe, an elite team is brought together to investigate as mankind teeters on the verge of global war. Tickets: £4 adults, £2.50 children under 16, £12.50 family (2A + 2C). Loyalty Card: see two films watch third half price + free soft drink. Doors open half an hour before, bar serving drinks and snacks, free parking MARDEN HOUSE CONCERT Sunday 30th April 2017 at 3.00pm Marden House, Calne.

THE CYGNUS TRIO – Javier Montanana, César Sauar and Hannah Lewis

Schubert Nocturne, Mendelssohn Trio in C minor, op.66 and Brahms Trio in C, op.87. Tickets: £12 Adults, £1 Full-time Students. Available from: Calne Information Centre, www.marlboroughboxoffice. co.uk or at the door. www. mardenhouseconcerts.co.uk DRIVE IT DAY AT THE ATWELL WILSON MOTOR MUSEUM April 23rd Calne National Drive-it-Day, organised

by FBHVC. Atwell Wilson Motor Museum will host drivers and clubs with their classic cars - all welcome to come along, especially those with their historic cars and motorbikes - tea and cakes available..

MOVIOLA@ GRITTLETON VILLAGE HALL on Wednesday April 19th 2017 A UNITED KINGDOM [12A] A United Kingdom tells the true story of Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo), heir to the throne of Bechuanaland (a British protectorate, now modern-day Botswana), and Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike), the London office worker he married in the 1940s in spite of fierce opposition from their families and the British and South African governments. Tickets £6 adults from Lesley on 01249 783157 or email l_palmer@btinternet.com Doors open 7pm, programme starts at 7.30pm. Details of our Summer Film season will be available soon.

Dates (all Wednesdays) are May 31st, June 28th and July 26th BUSHTON MANOR PLANT FAIR AND OPEN GARDEN Bank Holiday Monday May 1st 2017 11am -3pm Postcode SN4 7PX This event has grown and grown over the last 10 years with over 700 people attending last year. Within the grounds of this 18th century Manor House there will be some 30 stalls scattered around the garden with plants, crafts and other related products as well as the ever popular bacon butty BBQ and home made refreshments. A plant crèche will enable you to stroll around without having to carry your purchases.

Entrance £2. Children and car parking free. www.clyffepypardbushton.com

Great GreatDeals Deals at atJewson Jewson Chippenham Chippenham rr fefe n nofof e ecaca tw tw haha WW As As thethe UK’s UK’s leading leading supplier supplier of sustainable of sustainable timber timber andand building building materials materials wewe offer offer a huge a huge range range of products of products from from your your everyday everyday trade trade essentials essentials through through to the to the latest latest sustainable sustainable solutions solutions - all - all backed backed up up by by excellent excellent service service from from ourour friendly, friendly, knowledgeable knowledgeable staff. staff.

LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING

INSULATION INSULATION

PAINT PAINT MIXING MIXING TIMBER TIMBER

PLUMBING PLUMBING

Come Come and and meet meet thethe new new branch branch team team and and new new branch branch manager manager

Bath Bath Road Road Ind. Ind. Estate, Estate, Chippenham, Chippenham, Wiltshire Wiltshire SN14 SN14 0AB 0AB Call: Call: 01249 01249 653351 653351

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

9

Local Focus

Calne Men’s Shed Successful ' Men's Sheds' have been set up in a number of Wiltshire market towns within the past two years.A small group of like-minded men in the Calne area are keen to get a 'shed' going here.

Mens sheds aim to give retired and unemployed men a place to meet up and carry out carpentry,metal work,repairs,renovations and other workshop projects.

In other words a place of leisure where men can come together to socialise and work. Read more on mensheds.org.uk.

A meeting for all those interested in forming a local group has been arranged for Tuesday 2nd May at 2 pm in the Harris room at Calne library, starting at 2pm.

Club chairman Chris Austin, Group director Hills Waste Solutions Mike Webster and Community First grants officer Mary Hardwidge.

Lights go on at Calne RFC

Calne Rugby Club players can now train and play in the darker winter months thanks to a £1,411 grant from The Hills Group.

The six floodlights will illuminate the club’s recreation ground and as club chairman Chris Austin commented: “We are very grateful to Hills for helping us purchase our fantastic new floodlights. Training in the darker months was challenging as the previous lighting was so poor and as a result we have seen a massive decline in the number of people attending training. The new lights will help us get more people playing rugby.”

The funding has been made available through the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF) which is administered for Hills

by Community First, the Rural Community Council for Wiltshire.

Mike Webster, group director Hills Waste Solutions, said: “Sporting clubs are a great way for people to get together to socialise and exercise. The floodlights will enable the Calne community to use the facilities to their full extent and will benefit the rugby in the long term by encouraging more people to get involved with the club.”

10

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Bushton Manor Plant Fair and Open Garden Bank Holiday Monday May 1st 2017 11am -3pm Postcode SN4 7PX This event has grown and grown over the last 10 years with over 700 people attending last year. To celebrate this 10th Anniversary there is to be a dedicated display of Garden Art which will include sculpture, painting, demonstrations and country style products.

Within the lovely grounds of this 18th century Manor House there will be some 30 stalls scattered around the garden with plants, crafts and other related products as well as the ever popular bacon butty BBQ and home made refreshments. A plant crèche will enable you to stroll around without having to carry your purchases.

For the younger people there will be outside games to keep them occupied.

Money raised will go towards the upkeep of St Peter’s Church the Grade 1 listed building in Clyffe Pypard.

Entrance £2. Children and car parking free.

Further details: www.clyffepypard-bushton.com

London River Cruise January Competition donated by Marc Fitchett Travel Counsellor was won by Anita Evans from Royal Wootton Bassett Dancing Flavours Recipe Book February Competition donated by Wafaa Powell was won

by Caroline May from Calne

FEATURING

PLUS MANY MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED

OVER 40 ACTS ACROSS 4 STAGES TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW AT

WWW.SEETICKETS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/CALNEFEST THE RECREATION GROUND, CALNE, WILTSHIRE, SN11 8DX The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

11

12

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Senior Citizen Services

Due to unprecedented demand nationally our specialist service is now open in your area Senior Citizen Services offer a dedicated home maintenance service to to those over 65 and vulnerable adults, wishing to remain in their homes.

Unlike any other contractor, we undertake those little jobs that so many find difficult to manage, together with larger projects, covering all the needs required in the home.

Our ambition is to provide a service, developed by recommendation, for being both secure and efficient, with works carried out by responsible, enthusiastic and caring staff, at a reasonable cost.

Started in 2007 to meet the needs of the older generation, and now in demand throughout the UK. Many local agencies now work with SCS to help them with the growing demand.

The list of works undertaken is varied and covers most of the fields required in and around the home. Our service is second to none and our helpful staff will be pleased to help and advise on any requirements you may be considering or urgent works which need prompt and professional attention.

Our staff are fully trained, insured and security checked, as well as members of the Builders and Allied Trades Associates, to guarantee you a service which is both safe and trusted.

So perhaps this is the opportunity you have been waiting for to "stop that dripping tap, refit the loose curtain rail or have a kitchen or bathroom redesigned to meet your specific requirements". We also supply and install kitchen appliances, sheds and many other products which we can provide at very realistic prices.

Please visit: www.seniorcitizenservices.co.uk or give us a call on 0800 246 5425 for any further information – we look forward to being of service to you.

Modern methods - Traditional values - Caring - Patient - Understanding

LIKE SOS BUT SCS

For All Your Day to Day Requirements, from changing a light bulb to redecorating your house.

No job too small and help available for any problems in and around the home.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS Including Plumbing, Electrical, Tiling, Painting & Decorating and more…

HOME SECURITY & SAFETY Locks, Glazing, Outdoor Lighting, Key Safes, Grab & Safety Rails Call out rates from just £12.00 (including 1 hour labour)

Kitchen Appliances - Sheds - Blinds Supplied and installed at very competitive prices

Providing you are 65 and over, this service is available to you!

Works are carried out by specialists and qualified tradesmen Fully insured and DBS/CRB checked

www.seniorcitizenservices.co.uk

LARGER WORKS Kitchen, Toilet & Bathroom Modifications, etc…

MOVING HOME We can assist and prepare everything for your move

Just Call SCS on

07759 109 554

Email: gary.ashworth@blueyonder.co.uk

anytime

Scotland - South East - London - Midlands - South West

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

13

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Hobsons Regal Hounds For that Ulti-Mutt touch

Calne’s most qualified Dog Groomer formerly known as ‘Ulti-Mutt Dog Grooming Wiltshire’.

Regrettably, after over 10 years using the name “Ulti-Mutt Dog Grooming” we have to say a goodbye to our current name due to trademarking issues from another groomer.

We are a professional City and Guilds Qualified (with many distinctions), Multi-Award Winning, family run dog grooming salon established in Calne with over ten years of grooming experience!

Every dog who comes into our salon is treated as one of our own. We are focused on providing the best services for your dog! Aiming to provide the highest levels of customer satisfaction, doing everything we can to meet your expectations.

As always we have a variety of trans-fur-mation services for you to choose from, including free puppy introductions, the full works, a laundromutt wash & tidy, show cuts and specialised hand-stripping, we’re sure you and your dog will be happy with us.

All grooming services include a complimentary nail trimming and ear clean.

eir own”

em like th “They love thie rk

Ramsey the Yo

exible, t friendly & fl u b l a n io ss uldn’t “Profe ou want! Wo y ld u co re o what m the Cockapoo else” Muppet re e h w y n a o g orked so hloe have w “Karen and C is second to ir expertise e th d n a , rd ha n the Spaniel none” Bracke

14

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Unfortunately, there is no way around this and we have to change our name which to begin with upset us deeply as we have built up a good reputation over the last ten years, gaining a massive number of awards and achievements including Dog Grooming Business of the Year Finalist 2015 & 2016, Magazine interviews, grooming demos at Crufts and for Pro Groomer YouTube as well as some top placings in grooming competitions and dog shows with our Irish Bitch Ailis qualifying for Crufts 2016, 2017 & 2018!

Our New Website is Coming Soon! www.hobsonsregalhounds.com. Check out our website for more information on our credentials, services, T&C’s and to see our gallery!

Contact Karen and Chloe today on 07885 253990 Karen.lofthouse@sky.com. Find us on Facebook, and Instagram @Hobsonsregalhounds tag us in your photos using #hobsonsregalhounds

PLATINUM MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS

A website you'll love to own and use. website development responsive design friendly service domain hosting

www.boundbook.co.uk

07952 841047 websites@boundbook.co.uk

Stuart Gilbert

07879 440064 stuart@platinumadvice.co.uk www.platinumadvice.co.uk Your local service for Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other legal needs.

Celebrating 10 years serving the Calne area

LEGAL SERVICES LTD

KINGSTON HOUSE

MAKE OR UPDATE YOUR WILL

Free home visit from your local Goodwills consultant

Single Will only ÂŁ88 Mirror Wills for couples only ÂŁ148 Call Michael Rhodes (8am-8pm)

01225 683062

Email: info@goodwillslocal.co.uk Website: www.goodwillslocal.co.uk Prices include VAT, an individual consultation and your Will being produced by Goodwills Legal Services Ltd, a professional regulated law firm.

Residential Care Home For the Older Person

Residential and Specialist Dementia Care All rooms with En-Suite facilities Caring, Professional staff and a lively environment Regular trips on our Minibus Eden Alternative registered home Visitors always welcome Lansdowne Crescent East, Derry Hill, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9NT Tel: 01249 815555 Fax: 01249 818928 E-mail: kingston@greensleeves.org.uk For further details, please contact the Home Manager Registered Charity No 1060478

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

15

What’s On

Join Rotary and make a world of difference Want to join a new gang?

Looking for new challenges? D’you want to be part of a worldwide organisation of nearly a million and a half members? Got a bit of time to spare and would like to get engaged in helping our local community or support overseas projects? Want to extend your social circle, and meet new friends?

Joining your local Rotary Club will give you the perfect opportunity.

You can get involved in managing events, supporting local charities, working with young people, helping organise disaster relief – even helping to eradicate disease like polio worldwide . Not only will you experience an enormous sense of achievement, you’ll also learn valuable new skills, have lots of fun, and make plenty of new friends and business contacts.

Interested ? Contact Roger Greenslade at Chippenham Rotary Club on 01380726390 to find out more.

Visit us at www.chippenhamrotary.org and follow us on Facebook @chippenhamrotary

2017 Rotary Charity Golf Classic We are all looking forward to welcoming you to the Rotary Club of Chippenham’s 2017 Rotary Golf Classic, to be held on Wednesday 26th April, 2017. The day offers a great opportunity to play a challenging game of golf at the award winning Manor House Golf Club at Castle Combe, which is located in splendid scenery, on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment. The course is listed as the Number 1 Course in Wiltshire and is included in the UK’s “Top 100 Golf Courses”. www.manorhousegolf.co.uk This year’s event will follow our now successful format, with access to the driving range, coffee and a bacon roll to get you going, followed by a “shotgun” start at 12.00 noon for a Texas Scramble medal competition. Buggies are included in the price and the day will be rounded off with the opportunity for a drink in the bar before the prize giving, followed by a two course carvery dinner and coffee. This includes a charity auction with some stunning lots donated by local organisations. The £65 per person fee for all of the above is considerably cheaper than the usual cost of playing at this splendid course! In addition to the two charity holes (Beat the Pro and “Stay on the Green”), the day will feature on-course competitions for the Straightest Drive and Nearest the Pin. What a great opportunity to play a round of golf with friends, work colleagues, or to entertain some corporate guests? We are happy to consider one or more players, as well as the more normal foursomes.

We have already started to gather sponsors for the holes and prizes for the auction which forms part of the fundraising event. This year the funds will be donated to the Julia`s House, a very worthwhile local charity, currently carrying out a multi-million refurbishment and conversion to a Children`s Hospice, of a property in Devizes. This will add to the present provision of home based respite care services to the families of life-limited children living in Wiltshire; their continuing emphasis being on those families who do not have access to this sort of frequent care service. Their motto is “Care for the child, there for the family” Julia’s House is not a typical children’s hospice, they provide practical and emotional support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, providing frequent and regular support in their own homes, in the community, or at their hospice. www. juliashouse.org We already have a number of excellent lots in our auction which will be supervised by auctioneer Gordon Brockman of Chippenham Auction Rooms – so bring your cheque book!

If you would like further information of a copy of the entry form, please contact Bob Nation on nation.294@ talktalk.net

16

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Do you have a conservatory that is too cold to use in the winter and too hot in the summer?

Transform your conservatory in less than a day with our insulated roof panels

I

N 2010 the planning laws were relaxed and in the majority of cases, you can now fit a solid roof to your conservatory without planning permission.

This means better insulation, keeping the room warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and a room that you can use all year round.

There are a few different options to fitting a solid roof on your conservatory, most of which require major upheaval and disruption. There is, however, now an alternative option that will transform your room from an unusable space to a beautiful room in less than one day!

Green Space Ltd specialise in transforming conservatories. Their roof panels are lightweight and offer eight times better insulation than a polycarbonate roof.

With U-values of 0.29, they will keep your conservatory at a comfortable temperature all year round. The panels are manufactured to measure off site, so installation generally takes less than a day.

The system is compatible with most conservatories, plus it comes with a ten year guarantee.

Your conservatory that was too cold to eat your breakfast in the morning, could be lovely and cosy by dinner time. Transform your conservatory in one day contact GreenSpace on 01793 208 002 or visit: www.greenspaceconservatories.co.uk.

What a difference a day makes

Transform your conservatory in less than a day with our insulated roof panels

2 FREE PANELS THIS MONTH

Before

* Quote Ref TTC0417

After

Warmer in winter. Cooler in summer. Quieter in bad weather. Usable all year. 10 year Guarantee.

For more information call:

01793 208002

www.greenspaceconservatories.co.uk

“I’ve already turned the underfloor heating down.

Lovely job guys, thank you!”

Anne Bird, Bristol.

*Orders placed by end of April 17. Applies to orders over 8 panels. Smaller orders receive calculated discount. Not valid for use with any other offer.

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

17

What’s On

18

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Residents of Hill House say that it is their ...

‘Home from Home’

tranquillity sat on the terraces. We have introduced a new person centred software system to ensure a high standard of record keeping and enabling staff to spend more time with residents.

Hill House is a Country House set in open countryside once owned by the Chamberlain family.

We offer nursing, residential, respite, day care and end of life care. Please give us a call if you would like more information on our lovely Home.

‘Person centred care sees residents as equal partners in planning, developing and assessing care to make sure it is the most appropriate for their needs. It involves putting residents and their families at the heart of all decisions.’ Norma & Chad Doveton (Owners of Hill House)

care home

We continue to drive our Homes forward to achieve ever higher standards. We recognise training our staff is the key to providing the best care possible. Training also helps staff to achieve their personal goals, career development and to be happy and fulfilled in their work. We are looking for highly motivated caring individuals to work in our new Home and have several vacancies including Registered Nurses and Care Assistants.

If you would like to be part of our team please call us on: 01666 822363

The recently opened new wing has large living and dining areas overlooking the Dauntsey Vale.

There are many new features including community coffee hub, bar, hairdressing salon, nail bar, ensuite shower in each room, large assisted bathrooms, WiFi throughout. The gardens are a magnificent feature of Hill House where you can enjoy peace and

Hill House Care Home, Little Somerford, Nr Malmesbury SN15 5BH Tel: 01666 822363 email: hillhousemanager@gmail.com • www.countrycarehomes.co.uk

WE WILL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTE

WORKTOPS APPLIANCES SINKS TAPS

FIND US ON FACEBOOK TotalkitchensMelksham Totalcarpets

FREE DESIGN AND MEASURING SERVICE

FROM

£5.99 PER SQM

FR

TRADE & RETAIL WELCOME

www.totalkitchen.co.uk

EE ESTIMA VINYL FLOORING TES WOOD FLOORING LAMINATE FLOORING CARPETS www.totalcarpets.co.uk

Tel: 01249 821184 or 07804 795209

VISIT THE SHOWROOM: 3 The Square, Wood Street, Calne SN11 0BY Email: totalcarpetsandflooring@talktalk.net • Open: Mon-Fri: 9am–5pm, Sat: 9am–4pm The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

19

What’s On

Spring Events in Calne A selection of forthcoming events in Calne

Calne Lions Duck Race Saturday 13th May Event starts at 10am, races begin at 11am Calne Town Centre, Free entry A true community event, bringing hundreds to Calne’s riverside to see if their duck will win gold.

3000 plastic ducks will be taking to the River Marden from 11am on Saturday 13th May at Calne Lions Duck Race, a popular annual event in the town’s calendar for over 30 years. Join the crowds gathered along the riverside in the town centre to cheer on the colourful array of decorated ducks as they race, or in some cases meander, past Beach Terrace and the Town Hall before finishing at Marden House.

Meet local community groups with stalls along the riverside and don’t miss Calne Business Fair in the Town Hall. The event is also a good opportunity to enjoy the independent shops in Calne’s Heritage Quarter and learn more about the town’s notable people and places at Calne Heritage Centre, free entry. calnelions.org.

20

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Calne Business Fair Saturday 13th May, 10am – 1pm Calne Town Hall, Free entry Whilst enjoying the fun at Calne Lions Duck Race, pop into Calne’s historic Town Hall to meet a wide range of local businesses.

The Fair allows organisations to make valuable connections in a welcoming environment.

Classic Car Run with Calne Rotary Club Sunday 21st May Starting from Calne Leisure Centre Car Park, SN11 0SP, at 9.30am View a spectacle of classic cars of all varieties as they line up to take part in Calne Rotary Club’s 65-mile Classic Car Run between 8am and 10am on Sunday 21st May.

Calne Spring Sing Saturday 8th April, 10.30am to 3.30pm Calne Town Centre. Free entry An enjoyable day of music in Calne town centre on Saturday 8th April from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Twelve choirs will be performing across five venues throughout the day before joining the audience for a Big Sing Finale at 3pm.

Free entry to all performances.

Warminster Military Wives Choir will be performing in Calne Town Hall 12.30pm - 1pm. The choir has previously performed at the Carnegie Hall in New York and recorded a single for the national Military Wives 'Home for Christmas' album, which reached number 2 in the Classical Music Charts in 2016.

The cars will be parked in groups such as Porshe, Austin and Jaguars before the Town Mayor begins the event at 9.30am, with several cars released at a time.

With a prize for the best dressed, several car owners will be in costume. Look out for teddy bear and dog companions, as there is also a prize for companions at this fun community event.

To take part in the Classic Car Run, which follows a route through beautiful Wiltshire countryside before finishing at the Dorothy House Hospice in Winsley, register at www.calnerotary.co.uk . Half of all funds raised will go to Dorothy House, with the remainder going to support local Calne organisations.

The full programme is available on Calne Town Councils’ website, Facebook and Twitter.

Parking: two hours free at Calne Heritage Quarter car park accessed from the A4, where you can also pay to park for the whole day and enjoy Calne's independent shops and cafés.

Bus: Calne is well connected to Chippenham, Lyneham, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon and Devizes with regular 55 and 33 services stopping at the Town Hall.

Take part in Calne’s Carnival!

It’s free to take part in the procession at Calne Summer Festival & Carnival on Saturday 24th June Enter your school, group or club either as a walking entry or float (using your own vehicle or lorry supplied free of charge by JJ&S Transport) by downloading the relevant entry form from www. calne.gov.uk and returning to Tracy Howell, Calne Town Council, at thowell@calne.gov.uk .

All entry forms must be returned

by Friday 16th June 2017.

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

21

Local Focus

Calne in Bloom Fifteen volunteers joined Calne in Bloom on Sunday 5th March to take part in The Great British Spring Clean.

The group collected approximately fifteen large black sacks of bottles, cans and general waste, along with old car parts, road cones, a lampshade, some large panes of glass and buckets of builders’ waste.

Much of this waste was collected from the land behind Lloyds Bank and the waste ground to the side of the recycling area. The group also tackled the hedges and beds surrounding the Sainsbury’s car parks, along the river, through The Pippin, The Green and up to Castle Walk.

This event was one of ten Great British Spring Cleans in the Calne Community Area over the weekend, with litter picks taking place at Castlefields Canal & River Park and Abberd Brook to name but a few. The national Great British Spring Clean campaign is led

by Keep Britain Tidy, with the aim to inspire 500,000 people to get outdoors, get active and help clean up the areas around us.

Calne in Bloom has won Gold for the past three years in the South West in Bloom competition. This accolade is a reflection of the town’s attractive planting displays and thriving community projects. The judges also mark the town on its cleanliness and presentation.

Meet the Calne in Bloom team at Calne Lions Duck Race on Saturday 13th May, where they will be holding a ‘Plant, Bulb and Seed Swap’ event from 10am to early afternoon at The Wharf near Marden House. If you have anything to swap they would love to see you, and they can also do their best to offer horticultural advice.

Entries are now open to Calne in Bloom’s annual Gardens Competition, which closes on Friday 16th June. Residents and businesses can enter several categories including front and back gardens. To find out more visit www.calne.gov.uk/Calne-in-Bloom.aspx or contact Co-ordinator Trudy King on 01249 814000 or tking@calne.gov.uk

22

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Fun, free, friendly, beginner

SAMBA DRUMMING AND DANCING LESSONS Just turn up and have a go!

26th April, 3rd, 10th May and 7th, 14th, 21st of June.

Practices are at John Bentley School 7.15pm to 8.45pm under 11's adult supervision.

Swans and Cygnets Samba Dancers call 07553 952988 www.whitehorsesamba.co.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

23

Local Focus

Chippenham’s Pancake Race 2017 Thank you to those who joined us for some flipping good fun on Tuesday 28th February as we celebrated Shrove Tuesday... with a little pancake pandemonium!

Seven teams took part in the businesses' relay-race, including Goughs Solicitors, Wilko, Sahara Sisters, 24-7 Staffing, o2, John Williams Heating and YMCA. The team from Wilko took victory in a time of 50.26 seconds, with 24-7 Staffing placing second and o2 third.

We also hosted two children's races, which were won by four-year-old Daisy and two-year-old Ava- plus several individual races were held for those who wanted to get in on the competitive action.

Simon Philpott, manager of Chippenham BID, said: “I think we were overwhelmed by the amount of people who turned up but it shows things are turning around in Chippenham".

“This will become an annual event, this year was just a bit of fun but I think next year will be a bit more serious.”

Apprentice sets her sights even higher Georgina Williams (21), who lives in Chippenham, now works as a full-time administrator at the company which is run by her parents John and Debbie.

Georgina has studied and worked for two years to attain a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration.

She said: “It has been a long journey and a very worthwhile experience. I have gained a much wider knowledge of business and a wealth of experience whilst also studying at the same time.

Georgina is one of five apprentices currently employed within the team at John Williams Heating Services which is based on the Bumpers Farm Industrial Estate. Debbie Williams, co-founder of the company, is a national Apprentice Ambassador and is passionate about promoting apprenticeships to young people as an important route to a successful career.

Debbie said: “Apprentices are such valuable members of our team and it’s amazing to be able to see them grow and mature in knowledge and experience. Georgina has brought so much to us too – from fine-tuning our processes through to teaching us many aspects of efficient administration.

“It’s not just about what we can do for an apprentice, it’s equally about what they can do for us.”

Georgina now plans to go on to study Accountancy Level 3 with the Association of Accounting Technicians and wishes to become a fully qualified accountant.

“I’ve realised I enjoy working with numbers so I’m excited to be able to go on and gain more qualifications and knowledge.”

John Williams Heating Services is based on the Bumpers Farm Industrial Estate in Chippenham.

The company has won multiple business awards, is a Which? Trusted Trader and is registered with CheckATrade.com.

For more details visit www.jwheating.co.uk

24

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

MAKE LIFE EASIER Rise and recline furniture Adjustable beds

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

check

The Mobility Store | Unit 9a Ellendune Shopping Centre | WROUGHTON | SN4 9LN NEXT TO TESCO - FREE LEVEL PARKING | Tel: 01793 815083 56 George Lane | MARLBOROUGH | SN8 4BY | Tel: 01672 511550 Lansdowne | BOURTON ON THE WATER | GL54 2AR | Tel: 01451 810088 www.thehearingandmobilitystore.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

25

Local Focus

The Town Crier Family Pet Calendar 2018

Calne help desk specialist’s new role Michael Fortnam, from Calne, is one of three new faces to have joined the team at Wiltshire-based IT company Systemagic as the company prepares for expansion to bigger premises in the spring.

Michael Fortnam, 20, has a four-year background in providing telephone and remote support to customers, having previously worked for a large helpdesk. He's joined Systematic which supports customers all over the South West with their IT & telephony.

“Having grown in numbers from five to 13 in just a couple of years we are also moving to new 4000sq ft offices in April which will allow us to create an excellent environment to work in and to continue to expand.”

Along with award-winning IT support, Systemagic provides business telephone systems, cloud computing and connectivity solutions to South West businesses, without typing anyone in to a long term contract.

The 13-strong team is currently based on the Bath/ Wiltshire border and celebrates 18 years in business this year. The company recently won the award of Commitment to Apprenticeships from Yeovil College in Somerset, the third award in three years for their apprenticeship programme. For more information visit www.systemagic.co.uk L to R: Joseph Grant (Helpdesk Admin apprentice) Patrick Medhurst (Field Technician), James Eades, Managing Director and Michael Fortnam (Helpdesk Technician)

Photo by Vicky

James said: ‘‘I’m really happy to have started 2017 by adding three new members to our team – they bring experience, skills and enthusiasm to our technical delivery and are already receiving great feedback from our customers.

Jefferies

He's not the only new employee. Patrick Medhurst, 25, from Westbury, has joined as an IT technician and Joseph Grant, aged 21, from Shaftesbury is the new apprentice working towards a Level 3 Advanced apprenticeship in IT. Joseph is the latest apprentice to be trained by Systemagic boss James Eades, who started off as an apprentice himself and is committed to nurturing young talent.

As part of our fundraising for Wiltshire Air Ambulance during 2017, The Town Crier Magazine will be producing a Family Pet Calendar for 2018 to be sold from various outlets in time for Christmas.

We would like our readers to send in their favourite photographs of their pets. Your photo will need to be with us by September 18th 2017 - so get out your camera - and happy snapping!!

A representative from Wiltshire Air Ambulance will choose 12 of the best photographs to make up the calendar.

For a chance to appear in the calendar, please email your photograph and the name of your pet to production@towncriermagazine.com.

The Editor’s decision is final.

Your Local

26

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

TownCr er Magazine

5 The Strand, Calne, SN11 0RB (By the Library)

AL 10% IN L S O AP EE FF RI DS L

Bazaar Gifts & Cards At Bazaar we have a wide range of exciting products for you to choose from, as a gift or a treat for yourself.

We also stock a wide range for cake decorating Albums & Photo Frames Bags & Scarves | Home Scents & Candles Glass Vases | Paperweights & Ornaments Purses & Wallets | Soft Toys & Teddy Bears Gifts for Baby & Wedding Ladies & Mens Toiletries | Mugs

Telephone: 01249 813380 Bazaar Gifts & Cards Established 1982 - Florists for 34 years

PRUNE AND BROOM LTD CLEANING & GARDENING SERVICES END OF TENANCY & HOME HELP

Catherine Crofts 07877 661272 01249 822242 croftsies@hotmail.com

SHIRLEY’S

FLORISTS Flowers for all occasions

Easter Flowers & Plants We are open Good Friday Bedding, Basket and Veg plants available Garden sundries and compost

Calne Appliance

Tel: 01249 817089 29 High Street, Calne

www.shirleysflorist.co.uk We offer a key cutting service All major credit cards accepted

Need Flowers?

Think Shirley’s

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

27

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Dancing Academy Chippenham’s Dancing Academy at the forefront of innovation in dance in Wiltshire

S

INGING and dancing not only express creativity, they also build confidence and all-round fitness.

Innovation is a proven catalyst for the growth and success of any business and it is certainly true for The Dancing Academy in Chippenham.

Samantha’s initial dream of teaching classical ballet has blossomed into a school offering a wide range of classes to suit all ages and abilities. From classical ballet and modern dance, to tap, street dance and pilates; from singing, to drama and musical theatre.

The DA is due to announce a new timetable so whether it’s street, tap dancing, or classical ballet you love, there’s still time to sign up for a class for you and your children.

Pop in to their studio in Foundry Lane or call Jodie on 07427 832 996 for more information.

Musical theatre tops the box office charts both in the West End and on Broadway, and the DA’s own bi-annual musical shows have proved to be hugely popular with audiences in the Chippenham area.

Academy students have been eagerly signing up to audition for 2017’s end of year production, The Bedtime Bookshelf. A magical ‘mash up’ of children’s stories old and new.

Meanwhile, at the recent Kingswood Eisteddfod, young student Clara Black (photo right) won first place for singing and dancing (nine to ten yr olds) with her rendition of ‘A Castle on A Cloud’ from Les Miserables.

Dance Principal Samantha Reed (above right) and Vice-Principal Amy Van Maris (above left) not only bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in classical and modern dance and musical theatre, but are particularly adept at finding ways to grow their academy by responding to the needs of their students and to trends in the marketplace.

28

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

The DA’s adult tap dancing classes are also right on trend.

Amanda Holden is currently wowing audiences in the West End with a revival of the delightful musical comedy Stepping Out which follows a group of ladies learning to tap.

Tap dancing is not only good fun, but great for flattening tummies, improving posture and burning up to 250 calories an hour.

www.dancingacademy.co.uk Unit 3, The Old Foundry, Foundry Lane, Chippenham SN15 1JB

Has your kitchen seen better days?

TO THIS! . . .

GO FROM THIS . . .

saV

e

th OF Ousa pO nDs unD s

Premier Kitchen Doors can transform your kitchen with replacement doors, worktops, sinks and hobs. www.premierkitchendoors.co.uk You could save up to 50% compared to a new kitchen...

“Enjoy a fabulous new kitchen at a fraction of the cost”

saV

CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTATION

01380 609350

e saVe

www.premierkitchendoors.co.uk t

h OF Ousa pO nDs unD s

E. Wootten & Son

th OF Ousa pO nDs unD s

Funeral Directors www.premierkitchendoors.co.uk Established 1926

E Wootten & Son www.premierkitchendoors.co.uk Funeral Directors

Funeral Directors Jennifer and Shaun and the team at E. Wootten & Son are at your service and set the highest standards for the funeral profession in terms of care of clients and their loved ones. We help our families through one of the most difficult times in their lives with compassion, respect, knowledge, openness and personal care.

Bereaved families can rest assured, knowing that their loved one is being cared for within our purpose built premises, which include: • Qualified and discreet personnel.

• Private, homely and comfortable arranging rooms.

• Quiet and private Chapel of Rest.

• Fully equipped purpose built mortuary facilities.

• Private parking for convenience and discretion.

1 North Street Calne SN11 0HQ 01249 812258

E. Wootten & Son have their own fleet of vehicles on site which consist of a Mercedes E Class Hearse complemented with a matching limousine. Also a fully equipped private ambulance for bringing your loved one into our care.

47 Market Place Chippenham SN15 3HU 01249 709048

E. WOOTTEN & SON WILL ALSO ASSIST YOU WITH: • 24HRS A DAY SUPPORT • MEMORIALS • PRE-PAYMENT FUNERALS PLANS. The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

29

What’s On

Marden House Concert Sunday 30th April 2017 at 3.00pm Marden House, Calne.

THE CYGNUS TRIO – Javier Montanana, César Sauar and Hannah Lewis

Lockside WI - Pewsham Lockside WI have been pleased to take part in the National Federation of WI's campaign, Save the Love which hoped to raise awareness and to help tackle climate change. A group of members made a variety of green hearts, some knitted; embroidered; painted or made of felt which were made into brooches and notelets. These were sold and the proceeds given to Springboard Opportunity Group who are our “neighbours” located near the Pewsham Community Centre (SN15 3SY) where we meet from 10am to 12 noon. If you are interested in joining us please come along, you will be very welcome.

25th April - Talk on Honey by Claire Barker from Hive Originals If you would like to come along to any of our meetings you will be very welcome. Lockside WI, Pewsham Community Centre, Lodge Road, Chippenham SN15 3SY From 10.00am to 12 noon.

Music knows no boundaries and neither does the Cygnus Trio. Javier Montanana - piano and César Sauar - violin studied together in Valencia before coming to London to attend the Royal Academy of Music. In 2012 they were joined by fellow musician Hannah Lewis and formed the Cygnus Trio. Since then they have been playing and travelling together between London and Valencia. In June 2016 they performed, as prize winners, in Valencia and, in August 2016 played at the Santander Music Festival.

For their concert at Marden House they will be playing Schubert Nocturne, Mendelssohn Trio in C minor, op.66 and Brahms Trio in C, op.87.

Tickets: £12 Adults, £1 Full-time Students.

Available from: Calne Information Centre, www.marlboroughboxoffice.co.uk or at the door. www.mardenhouseconcerts.co.uk

oviola Calne Towayn26HthallApM ril 2017 Wednesd

NAMED BOB’ be ‘A STREETCAT Our April film will al best seller, on on an internati (12a). This is based ering drug ov rec a n mie Bowe the true story of Ja en he met wh life transformed addict who had his Joanne d an y wa Luke Tread a stray cat. Starring on Weds 26 ll Ha wn To lne Ca in Froggatt. Showing 0. Refreshments Doors open at 7.0 April. At 7.30pm. mation centre .00 from the Infor available. Tickets £6 or on the door.

30

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Grittleton Plant & Food Fair Sunday 28 May 2017 Open from 11am – 3pm Grittleton House, Grittleton, Chippenham, SN14 6AP Join us for the Grittleton Plant and Food Fair organised by children's charity Action Medical Research. Set in the stunning surrounds of Grittleton House, plant lovers and “foodies” are in for a real treat, with the chance to browse the many stalls selling plants from specialist nurseries, stunning accessories for your “room outside”, and delicious local artisan produce. It is going to be a fantastic day out for friends and family.

Refreshments and light lunches will be available.

Doors open at 11am until 3pm and entrance is £3 per person, with children under 12 years visiting free, Assistance Dogs only are allowed If you are interested in having a stall please contact Tracey Edwards on 01225 776691 or tedwards@ action.org.uk Entrance - £3 per person, Children under 12 years free. www.action.org.uk/grittleton All proceeds and donations will be going to support Action Medical Research

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS DESIGN SERVICE KITCHEN APPLIANCES IN STOCK FOR SAME DAY DELIVERY Bathrooms, wet rooms & shower rooms Bespoke kitchens Granite, silestone & laminate worktops Washing machines and dishwashers Kitchen appliances, intergrated or freestanding OPEN: Mon - Friday 8am - 5pm & Sat 8am - 2pm

T: 01249 813871

1 Stanier Road | Porte Marsh | Calne | SN11 9PX

www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk

CARPETS • FLOORING Domestic and Commercial Flooring from a large selection of samples.

Providing a friendly personalised service with professional fitting, working closely with customers to achieve best results • CARPETS ICE • LAMINATE BEST PRTEED • VINYL FLOORING G UA R A N • ENGINEERED WOOD

QUICKSTEP - TARKETT - RHINOFLOOR - CARMARO

FREE QUOTATION ON REQUEST

Goldmans Interiors Ltd, 3 Wood Street, Calne SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 814423 www.calnecarpetsandcurtains.co.uk email: goldmansinteriors@gmail.com The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

31

What’s On

!

Atwell Wilson Motor Museum !

We have a new raffle car! It took a while to find something suitable but we have

purchased a Mazda MX5 Nevada Special Edition, of which only just over 2000 were We have a new raffle car! It took a while to find nearly 90 classic cars and also motorbikes, a fire engine, produced. The draw for this car will take place at our annual show on 9th July by something suitable but we have purchased a Mazda a treasure trail for children and a milk float! There is which time we will have purchased another one for next year’s show. Tickets for the MX5 Nevada Special Edition, ofMazda, whichaonly over can be purchased also lots of and from a collection merejust £1 each, at automotive any one of thememorabilia shows we attend, 2000 were produced. The drawthe forMuseum this carorwill takevia: friends.draw@atwellwilson.org.uk of model lorries. Want to know more? Go on to our online place at our annual show on 9th July. Tickets are £1 website at atwellwilson.org.uk or send me an email each and can be purchased foawmmsec@gmail. at any one of the shows we com . I will be happy to attend, from the Museum answer an enquiries you or online via: friends.draw@ might have. atwellwilson.org.uk We are hoping to get On 23rd April, the more involved with the Museum will play host Calne Bike Meet this to many beautiful classic year, with the possibility cars, as their owners of camping at the take part in the annual Museum and a free bus "National Drive It Day". service from the town For many, it will be the centre to the Museum ! perfect opportunity on the day of the Meet. to give their cars a run This event takes place on Members of the Friends have already been out and about, our first show being the Great Western Classic Car Show29th at Shepton Mallett, where the Mazda was wellof bikes and after the winter. We are expecting a good turn out, July, will involve literally thousands received. the next two months raises we will money be at thefor Downton Cuckoo Fair, Devizes including members of the local JaguarInOwners Club. local charities.

Wellthe worth a visit.

Fair, Lions Duck race, the Castle Combe Steam Fair and finally in The Museum tea room will beLions open forthe theCalne duration Everyone involved with the Museum is a volunteer and May, the Bradford on Avon Lions fun day. So plenty of opportunity for you to see us of the event. without their support the Museum could not operate. whilst we’re out and about. However, with the Summer opening times upon us, why not take the opportunity to come and have a look around the Museum? really is a Members of the Friends have already If you would like to Itget involved, please treasure trove, containing nearly 90 classic cars and fire engine, a been out and about, our first show feelalso freemotorbikes, to contacta me at foawmmsec@ treasure also lots of automotive being the Great Western Classic Car trail for children and a milk float! There isgmail.com.

Alternatively, contact the memorabilia and a collection of model lorries. Want to know at more? on to our Show at Shepton Mallet, where the Museum the Go number below. website at atwellwilson.org.uk or send me an email foawmmsec@gmail.com . I will Mazda was well received. In the next be happy to answer an enquiries you might have. The Museum is open Tuesdays to two months we will be at the Downton inclusive from hoping to get more involved with the CalneSunday Bike Meet this year, with11am the to 5pm, Cuckoo Fair, the Devizes LionsWe Fair,are the including bank holidays.

There plenty of free possibility of camping at the Museum and a free bus service from theistown centre to parking Calne Lions Duck Race, the Castle Combe Steam Fair available on site and for larger groups who might like it, and finally in May, the Bradford on Avon Lions Fun Day. refreshments can be arranged if requested. For further With the Summer opening times upon us, why not information, please contact the Museum on 01249 take the opportunity to come and have a look around 813119 or visit its website which is www.atwellwilson. the Museum? It really is a treasure trove, containing org.uk You are assured of a very warm welcome.

Alan Hall, Secretary

!

How about a delicious breakfast, some new business and a slice of community focus?

The Referral Link is a well established business and community networking group for anyone who runs or is part of a business or community group in the Calne area. We meet fortnightly at the wonderful Duke Hotel, Hilmarton for breakfast and give our members and guests an opportunity to help their businesses and organisations grow through good quality referrals.

APRIL/MAY MEETING DATES: Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday

4th April 18th April 2nd May 16th May 30th May

start 7.45am start 7.45am start 7.45am start 7.45am start 7.45am networking business and community

We can of course only accommodate a limited number, so please book now via our Eventbrite page to secure your place.

To benefit from all that a membership has to offer and for further information on Referral Link, please go to the website: www.referrallink.co.uk 32

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

The Duke Hotel, 1 Church Road, Hilmarton, SN11 8SD

ACCENT

this is the Colona typeface w

If you are considering a new kitchen save a lot of money andfeel heartache our website now at Please freebytovisiting choose a typeface www.kitcheninstaller.biz for essential tips and advice!

Read what our customers have to say about us!

You buy it . . . we’ll fit it!

We professionally build and fit B&Q, Cooke and Lewis, Wickes, Homebase, Leekes, Wren and Howdens kitchens at a fraction of the cost of store fitters – guaranteed!

Get a free estimate today!

FO BE

Chippenham and the surrounding towns’ premier complete kitchen fitting company with over 17 year’s experience.

RE

A SUPERIOR KITCHEN INSTALLATION SERVICE this

for the following copy:

AF

TE

R

Call Keith on 07875742433 or 01249 890 NO VAT email – keithharmer@btinternet.com TO PAY!

Full Public Liability Insurance.

Call Keith on:

07875 742433 or 01249 890916

email: keithharmer@btinternet.com Chippenham and the surrounding towns’ premie fitting company with over 17years experience.

If you are considering a new kitchen save a lot of by visiting our website now at www.kitcheninstal BLINDS CURTAINS tips and• advice!

Made to measure with full professional installation service • Curtains • Roman Blinds • Pleated Blinds • Roller Blinds • Venetian Blinds • Vertical Blinds • Awnings & Canopies • Shutters ECLIPSE - LUXAFLEX - SILENT GLISS - SWISH

Read what our customers have to say about us!

You buy it, we’ll fit it FREE QUOTATION ON REQUEST

Goldmans Interiors Ltd, 3 Woodbuild Street, Calne Tel: 01249 814423 and L We professionally andSN11 fit0BZ B&Q, Cooke www.calnecarpetsandcurtains.co.uk email: goldmansinteriors@gmail.com Homebase, Leekes, Wren and Howdens kitchens of store fitters –guaranteed! Get a free estimate to The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

33

Puzzles

St George’s Day D

PUZZLE CORNER

ID you know that St George never actually set foot in Britain? It’s believed he was born in Lydda in Palestine, or in Cappadocia (now in central Turkey), and brought up in Palestine. His father was a Roman soldier, and when his parents died, George decided he would travel to Nicomedia (Turkey) to join the Roman army. He served for several years, progressing up the ranks to become an imperial guard of the Emperor.

George was a devout Christian, and was tortured and executed for refusing to give up his Christian faith. It’s believed that he was killed on 23rd April 300AD, which is why St George’s Day is celebrated on April 23rd each year.

So where does the dragon come into it? The legend of George and the dragon dates back hundreds of years, to the 11th century, if not earlier. According to the legend, a dragon was terrorising a small village. The villagers would sacrifice their children to appease the dragon.

One day George was riding past the village and met a young princess, whose turn it was to be sacrificed.

George rescued the girl and offered to slay the dragon for the villagers, if they would convert to Christianity.

They agreed, so he killed the dragon.

Today the Feast of St George is celebrated in countries across the world, including Palestine, Syria, Hungary and the Czech Republic. If you’re taking part, perhaps you could adopt the old English custom of wearing a red rose in your lapel on St George’s Day.

by Kate Duggan

ACROSS 1 Gawks, stares (5) 4 Registers, documents (5) 7 Levitating, fluttering (8) 8 Greek god of love (4) 9 Most chaotic, most unkempt (8) 11 Kiln or stove for drying hops (4) 12 Baby swan (6) 14 Church room (6) 16 Niche, hole (4) 18 Delirious, overjoyed (8) 20 Elliptical (4) 21 Unspoken, implied (8) 23 Reboot, start again (5) 24 Parting, leaving (5)

DOWN 1 Store, minimarket (7) 2 Iron, flatten (5) 3 _ _ _ Sunday - Winter sports programme (3) 4 Downsides, bad points (9) 5 Mini earthquakes, vibrations (7) 6 Footwear (5) 10 Radical, zealot (9) 13 Stinging plants (7) 15 Fence, barrier - mostly metal (7) 17 Romantic partner (5) 19 Excuse, defence (5) 22 Small, wrinkly dog! (3)

Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 66

34

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Phillip Viles

KI NE TC W HE N

PROPERTY Maintenance

Carpets w Upholstery w Rugs w Leather w Hard Floors w Wooden Floors w Patios w General & Deep Cleaning w End of Tenancy Specialists

Domestic & Commercial FREE Quotations w Fully Insured

w i klean almost anything w

BA N TH E W RO O M

Call Chris on: 01249 249665 / 07710 159640 email: ikleanwiltshire@gmail.com

Wiltshire Pest Control

• Friendly, Reliable Service • Free Quotes • Fully insured • Over 20 years experience • All jobs considered

Find us on Facebook

01249 816557 or 07880 675543

BSB

07528 520880

FLOORING www.bsbflooring.co.uk Bringing Luxury Home • Carpets and Vinyls CONTRACT AND DOMESTIC FLOOR COVERING

Ovenclean

• Wooden and Laminate floors • Natural Sisal and Seagrass carpets • Karndean and Amtico vinyl tiles • Altro non slip safety flooring • Altro Whiterock hygienic wall cladding

George Taylor Carpet Fitter Supplier of Underlay, Gripper & Door Bars

Tel: 01249 814164 Mob: 07791 834904 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

35

Food & Drink

Hot Cross Buns A traditional Easter, springtime treat, why not bake a batch to share with friends Ingredients for 12 servings DOUGH 500g Strong Bread Flour 7g Easy bake yeast 275ml whole milk 50g Butter (unsalted, cold, diced) 1 medium beaten egg 75g Unrefined golden caster sugar 1 ½ tsp salt TOPPINGS 75g Sultanas 2 tsp Mixed Spice 100g Plain white flour 50g Mixed peel 50g Apricot Jam 2 medium egg yolks

36

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

METHOD MIX: Boil the milk in a pan, remove from heat then ad Leave to cool un d the butter. til warm. Mix the dry ingredients in and then add the a large bowl milk and beaten eg g, stirring with a spoon. wooden KNEAD: On a lig htly floured surfa ce, knead the mixt 10 minutes. RISE: ure for approx.

Lightly grease th e large bowl, pla in the bowl then ce the dough cover with a clean cloth and leave to doubled in size – rise until this could be up to two hours depe warm the room is. ndent on how SHAPE: Sift the m ixed spice over th e dough, then kn sultanas and mixe ead in the d peel. Slice into 12 even sized pie balls and place, we ces, roll into ll-spaced, on a lin ed baking tray.

PROVE: Cover th e dough again, an d leave until doubled again. Preheat ov en to fan 180C/2 in size 00C/Gas 6.

BAKE: Score a cro ss on top of each bun with a sharp the plain flour wi knife. Mix th a tbsp. of wate r at a time to form piping bag to pip a paste. Use a e crosses on the buns on the cuts the buns for aroun you made. Bake d 11-15 minutes or until golden.

GLAZE: Melt the jam, sieve then br ush apricot glaze leave to cool on over buns and a wire rack.

Goatacre Village Hall

• Large hall available for hire from £10 per hour. Ideal for parties, weddings, corporate hire and much more!

• Fully licensed, staffed bar and well equipped kitchen.

• Full marquee lining available to hire along with chair covers, fairy lights, glass hire and much more.

Beautiful, Bespoke Cakes Cake Decorating Classes

Contact details are on the website or call Faye on 07788 296962 for more information.

Goatacre Lane, Calne, SN11 9JA

15 Church St, Calne, Wilts, SN11 0HY Tel: 01249 817225 or 07714 234749 info@flyingpigcakeemporium.co.uk www.flyingpigcakeemporium.co.uk

New Owner, New Chef, New Look, New Menu A Rustic Country Inn offering classic dishes alongside modern British cooking. Famed for the traditional Sunday Roast and fine dining room.

TUESDAY LUNCH SPECIAL Two courses for £10

TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROAST SERVED EVERY SUNDAY Easter Sunday now booking FREE TO ENTER EASTER EGG QUIZ WITH PRIZES

WEDNESDAY STEAK NIGHT £10 off when you buy two steaks

The George Inn, Sandy Lane, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2XP • t 01380 850403

thegeorgeinnsandylane.co.uk | book@thegeorgeinnsandylane.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

37

Food & Drink

Easter Choc Fudge Cupcakes Fun to make with the kids METHOD

For the cakes: He at oven to 190C/fa n 170C/ gas 5 and put the cases into a fairy -cake tin.

Sieve the dry ingr edients into a bo wl. Add the remaining ingred ients and beat fo r 2 mins with an electric hand-w hisk until smooth . Divide between the case s so they are twothirds filled, then bake for 12 -15 mins or until risen. Cool on a wire rack.

For the frosting: Microwave the ch ocolate on High for 1 min. Cr eam the butter an d sifted icing sugar togeth er, then beat in th e melted chocolate. Spread over the cakes an d decorate with mini chocola te eggs of choice!

INGREDIENTS CAKES 140g soft unsalted butter 140g caster sugar 3 medium eggs 100g self-raising flour 25g cocoa powder ICING 85g milk chocolate / or plain if you prefer less sweet icing.

85g softened butter (I actually like salted butter for the icing but unsalted works well).

140g icing sugar (sifted) Mini chocolate eggs of choice for decoration.

Preparation time: 15 minutes + marinating time Cooking time: 12-15 minutes Makes: 12-16 (depending on case size) 38

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Happy Easter Sunday 16th April

Animal Far

m

Farmtastic Easter 2017 Friday 14th-17th April 2017 Spring is now most definitely in the air and the

Farmtastic team are looking forward to welcoming This Season’s Opening Tim visitors for a new year.

#1 attraction: Royal Woootton Bassett

Saturdays & Sundays until November + special extra selected d We will be open for Easter Weekend (Friday 14th April – Monday 17th April), and we hope to be open before then - keep your see fingersover crossed100 for us! Our opening includin Come and animals, times are updated regularly on the website, so keep petting checking. zoo and rare breeds!

ENTRY PRICES £6.50 per adult, £5.50 per child (2-16 years) £2.50 per toddler (18 months - 2 years) Children under 18 months free - all children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £22.00 per family (2 adults + 2 children) 25p off entry price per person if travelling to us by bicycle, public transport or walking.

Lidats Meadows Farm, Grittenham, SN15 4JW 01666 510 477 www.farmtasticanimalfarm.co.uk

Ready to say hello to this year’s visitors are two baby goats, a boy and a girl,. they were born recently and are Family picnic both doingactivities, well. We also have cute newarea guineaand pigs lots mor and some cheeky chipmunks whizzing around. And of course, all the regular furry and feathered friends are still per here too - Llamas and Alpacas, chickens, horses, Lidats Mead £6 adult donkeys, fallow deer, goats and many more ...

Farm, Gritten SN15 4

£5 per child

£20 per family (up to 4)

01666 510 4

www.farmtasticanimalfarm.co.uk

*subject to weather conditions - please check our website or cal for up to date opening times and special dates

Award Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm (10am – 5pm on Sundays) HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, BURGERS & FAGGOTS EASTER ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN

LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES, FRUIT & SALADS HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES & FUDGE FINE WINE, LOCAL ALE & CIDER PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS GIFT HAMPERS

www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

39

Help to build a better future for Wiltshire Air Ambulance

W

ILTSHIRE Air Ambulance is calling on people to support its major new fundraising appeal to complete the building and equipping of its new airbase.

The charity was granted full planning permission for its new Operations Centre on land at Outmarsh Farm, Semington, near Melksham, in January 2017 and has launched its Airbase Appeal to raise the remaining £1.25 million needed.

The custom-built airbase will bring together the helicopter, aircrew and charity team onto one site in a central location in Wiltshire.

Launching Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Airbase Appeal are (l-r) Richard Miller, WAA Critical Care Paramedic, David Philpott, WAA Chief Executive, Cheryl Johnson, Head of WAA Airbase Appeal, Kevin Reed, WAA Head of Operations.

Main photo of Wiltshire Air Ambulance: LloydhPhotography.co.uk

40

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

David Philpott, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “We are delighted that our plans for our new airbase at Outmarsh Farm, Semington, have been granted

by Wiltshire Council. Wiltshire Air Ambulance has saved countless lives in the 27 years it has been operating and our new airbase will allow us to save many more lives in years to come.

“The site at Outmarsh Farm is perfect as it will allow our state-ofthe-art helicopter to reach all parts of Wiltshire within 11 minutes.”

Semington resident Peter Vooght, 71, who was airlifted by Wiltshire Air Ambulance when he suffered a life-threatening episode of sleep apnoea in March 2016, backed the new airbase.

Mr Vooght said: “I owe my life to Wiltshire Air Ambulance. I was in favour of the air ambulance moving to Semington from the start. Being in Semington means it will be ideally situated in the centre of the county, because you never know when you might need it.”

Peter Vooght, Semington resident airlifted by Wiltshire Air Ambulance in March 2016.

Cheryl Johnson, Head of Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Airbase Appeal, said the charity had already received funding for the new £5.1 million airbase, including £2.5 million pledged by a benefactor and £1 million from the LIBOR fund.

She said: “The response and support we have received towards our Airbase Appeal has been tremendous but we need to raise a total of £1.25

million to make our airbase a reality.

We hope individuals, community groups, schools and businesses will get onboard and enable us to secure the future of our lifesaving service.”

To donate to the Airbase Appeal and find out how to get involved go to www.wiltshireairbaseappeal.co.uk or email hello@wiltshireairambulance. co.uk or call the charity team on 01380 739453.

• Wiltshire Air Ambulance has been saving lives for 27 years. It is available up to 19 hours a day, 365 days a year. It costs £3.25 million a year to keep the air ambulance flying, that’s £8,904 per day.

• The charity’s custom-built airbase will be on land at Outmarsh Farm, Semington, near Melksham, and will house the helicopter, aircrew and charity team.

• This central site will enable the charity’s helicopter to reach all parts of Wiltshire within 11 minutes.

• The charity’s Airbase Appeal is to raise £1.25 million to complete the building and fit it out with medical and helicopter equipment, fixtures and fittings.

For more information on how to get involved go to www.wiltshireairbaseappeal.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

41

Travel

ADVERTISING FEATURE

– TRAVEL GUIDE –

Marc Fitchett

PERSONAL TRAVEL COUNSELLO R I enjoy travelling, and have over 15 years’ experience, working for both myself and the Travel Counsellors family. I love working closely with my customers making sure they get the best possible service before, during and after their trip. I have planned many diffe rent trips across the planet in my time in travel and have visited over 30 countries myself and have a pass ion for helping people fulfill their dreams. I am able to keep in touch with all of my clients, be it by phone on soci al media or email. This along with our fantastic financia l protection on all of our bookings, gives each customer that extra peace of mind.

I have lived in the local area for near ly ten years and love being part of local life and helping the people in Wiltshire with all of their leisure and business travel. If you are looking for a weekend break in Lond on and a West End show or a round the world cruise, a group trip with a club or society or a family holiday in the med, I can help advise on these and anything else travel related.

I look forward to many more year s helping people discover the world and fulfill thei r dreams.

Planning to Travel?

If you require expert advice and financial peace of mind when booking your next holiday or business travel please contact Marc Fitchett – Travel Counsellor.

Marc specialises in weddings abroad, honeymoons, long-haul travel, cruise, business and group travel. ”I’m very competitive on price and always add great value with excellent customer service, adding advance passenger information, dealing with visa queries and making sure you have a memorable trip.

Marc Fitchett

PERSONAL TRAVEL COUNSELLOR Tel: 01249 848510 Mobile: 07970 971041 marc.fitchett@travelcounsellors.com www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/marc.fitchett

I

Cuba

MMACULATE beaches and verdant hills, wildliferich rainforests and tumbling waterfalls, imposing mountain ranges and vibrant cities, all wrapped in defiantly Revolutionary politics; the island of Cuba can rightfully claim to be one of the most singular destinations on the planet.

The largest and most populous island in the Caribbean, Cuba’s 1959 socialist revolution and the subsequent US trade embargo has frozen the island in time; vintage American cars still roar through the ramshackle streets of its cities, while horses and carts clatter through the countryside.

The capital, Havana, serves up a heady mix of dilapidation and debauchery. It is a city where beautifully restored colonial buildings rub shoulders with the rundown tenements of regular Cubans. The contrasts can be stark, but Havana’s ubiquitous salsa rhythms, uninhibited dancing and potent cocktails galvanise the city and make for an enthralling urban experience unlike any other.

Cuba’s other cities are experiences in themselves.

Santiago de Cuba is a veritable melting pot of AfroCaribbean cultures, where pastel covered buildings meet grand cathedrals. And then there’s Trinidad, which offers a snapshot of a bygone era with its cobblestone streets, faded colonial façades and charming courtyards.

Delightful though these cities are, for many visitors Cuba’s greatest allure is its beaches – the improbably white sands and warm turquoise waters are exquisite.

Others prefer to head inland and gaze upon the verdant, limestone peaks of Viñales, where Cuba’s famous tobacco is cultivated.

As Cuba slowly opens up to the West, modern resorts have become increasingly common, but the most rewarding stays are in casa particulares. These private homestays offer a true insight into everyday Cuban life, which you won’t get in a hotel.

Though travelling around Cuba can be challenging, the country’s affable climate, captivating history, beautiful beaches, swinging salsa rhythms and ubiquitous mojitos are fair compensation indeed.

42

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

B ru n e l H o u s e

Please come along to discuss Care packages available with the Home Manager.

B ru n e l H o u s e

Brunel House is situated in the picturesque village of Box, located in the idyllic and rural county of Wiltshire.

Come along to chat to the team, have a coffee and pick up an information pack.

All 65 bedrooms are en-suite and decorated to a hotel standard. The care home is classical yet Brunel Houseinisstyle situated in the picturesque of Box, locatedoffering in the idyllic andelegance rural and security. contemporary and finished to a five-starvillage standard throughout, comfort,

Please come along to discuss Care packages county of Wiltshire. available with the Manager.

Facilities at Brunel House Care HomeHome include cafés, cinema room, dining rooms, reminiscence room

and a hair and beauty as well beautiful landscaped gardens. The care home is All 65 bedrooms aresalon, en-suite andasdecorated to a hotel standard.

Brunel House is situated in the picturesque village of Box, located in the idyllic and rural county of Wiltshire.

classical yet contemporary in style and finished to a five-star standard throughout,

Come along to chat to the team, have a coffee and pick up an information pack.

All 65 bedrooms en-suiteand andsecurity. decorated to a hotel standard. The care home is classical yet offering comfort,are elegance contemporary in style and finished to a five-star standard throughout, offering comfort, elegance and security.

B ru n e l H o u s e

Facilities at Brunel House Care Home include cafés, cinema room, dining rooms,

Facilities at Brunel House includesalon, cafés,as cinema room, dining rooms, reminiscence reminiscence room and Care a hairHome and beauty well gardens. room C a as r ebeautiful H o mlandscaped e and a hair and beauty salon, as well as beautiful landscaped gardens.

The Wharf, Box, Nr. Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 8EP Come along to chatTel: to the team, have Email: a coffee and pick up an information pack.

01225 560100 brunel.house@mmcg.co.uk Residential Care

Nursing Care

B

B ru n e l HRespite o uCare s e/ Short Breaks

Dementia Residential

Care Home The Wharf, Box, Nr. Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 8EP Tel: 01225 560100 Email: brunel.house@mmcg.co.uk

P a

B ru n e l H o u s e

Residential Care

B

Please come along to discuss Care packages available with the Home Manager. Respite Care / Short Breaks Nursing Care Dementia Residential

A c

Brunel House is situated in the picturesque village of Box, located in the idyllic and rural county of Wiltshire.

F a

All 65 bedrooms are en-suite and decorated to a hotel standard. The care home is classical yet contemporary in style and finished to a five-star standard throughout, offering comfort, elegance and security.

Facilities at Brunel House Care Home include cafés, cinema room, dining rooms, reminiscence room and a hair and beauty salon, as well as beautiful landscaped gardens.

B ru n e l H

C

Come along to chat to the team, have a coffee and pick up an information pack.

B r u n e l H o u sPlease e come along to disc

Care Home The Wharf, Box, Nr. Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 8EP Tel: 01225 560100 Email: brunel.house@mmcg.co.uk Brunel House is situated in the picturesque village

available with the Home M

Residential Care

Nursing Care

Dementia Residential

Respite Care / Short Breaks

All 65 bedrooms are en-suite and decorated to aR contemporary in style and finished to a five-star s

Facilities at Brunel House Care Home include café For more information, visit us online at www.mmcgcarehomes.co.uk

and a hair and beauty salon, as well as beautiful la

B r u n e l For H more o uinformation se

Come along to chat to the team, ha

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

43

Please come along to discuss Care packages

Br

Travel

To mark the return of the Real Marigold Hotel to our screens, we thought we’d put together a selection of our recommended hideaways on Kerala’s coast and backwaters.

Set amid breathtakingly beautiful scenery and featuring gorgeous traditional architecture and décor, each offers a perfect base from which to savour the distinctive atmosphere of this intensely tropical state – whatever your age or stage in life!

KERALA

Marari Beach Villas, Mararikulam A little bird has told us that this exquisite cluster of beach-side villas not far Kochi was where at least one of the programmes in the series was shot, and we hope for their sakes the celebs stayed here for most of the filming, because it’s a true paradise.

Nestled under shady coconut trees on the edge of a working fishing village, the six serviced villas are built in traditional Keralan style, with breezy pillared veranda and high-pitched, terracotta-tiled roofs. All have their own private walled gardens; some have pools and fabulous ocean views. The interiors and décor are achingly chic, especially after dark, when staff light traditional oil lamps. You can literally lie in bed and hear the surf crashing on the sand only a stone’s throw away.

44

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Kannur Beach House, Kannur Way up in the north of Kerala, the eponymous beach house is an effortlessly stylish, low-key B&B run by a welcoming Keralan family who dropped out of the dot-com rat race to return to their roots. Hosts Nazir and Rosie have created a haven of light, airy, cool rooms fitted with hand-carved hardwood beds and beams. Meals are served on a long communal table out front, a short stroll from an idyllic palm-backed beach. After a day’s idling in the sun, there’s no more memorable a way to experience the compelling ‘otherness’ of south India than a visit to a nocturnal Theyyem ceremony at a nearby temple, where theatrical dance rituals involving outlandish costumes and traditional music are performed by firelight in the cool night air.

Cruising Kerala's backwaters India is a land offering diverse experiences, but one that should not be missed is the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle

and cruise the backwaters of Kerala.

Travelling by boat gives a different perspective on the landscape and slows life down to be thoroughly enjoyed.

The backwaters The term backwaters refers to a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes and inlets that allows visitors to travel around an expanse stretching for some 900 kilometres. The region can be found parallel to the Arabian Sea in a part of India known as the Malabar Coast.

At the heart of the backwaters are five lakes - Ashtamudi, Vembanad, Paravur, Kumarakom and Punnamada. They are linked by 38 rivers and a series of natural and manmade canals. The number of possibilities for itineraries in the region is infinite, so no trip to the Keralan backwaters is ever the same.

Waves and shore currents mean that many of the rivers have low barrier islands at their entrance.

Exploring these and the towns and cities dotted across the landscape is all part of the experience of cruising the backwaters of Kerala.

Highlights The charm of this type of trip lies in the journey through the waterways, as well as the places that you stop along the way. There are a wide range of these to choose from, but here are some of the highlights: Kumarakom Known as the gateway to the backwaters, Kumarakom is a village surrounded by islands.

It is characterised by its lush vegetation, which helps nurture both avian and aquatic wildlife.

Those keen to spot the kingfisher and other resplendent birds should include the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on their agenda.

Alleppey A destination does not get the nickname 'Venice of the East' for nothing and Alleppey more than lives up to its name. The network of waterways in this area of the backwaters is akin to a labyrinth and offers stunning beauty wherever you sail. Glimpse villages, coconut groves, paddy fields and bridges as you make your way from lake to mangrove to canal.

Lake Vembanad The longest lake in India is quite a sight to behold and is

dotted with elegant houseboats, while stunning hotels line its waterfront.

Coconut lagoons and evergreen forests can also be seen from its shores, providing perfect nesting territory for a selection of migrating birds. Lucky visitors who see flocks of birds fly and swoop across the lake's surface will never forget the experience.

Kollam At the heart of Kollam is Ashtamudi Lake, which provides canals that run through the town. On the lake there are more than 15 islands of varying size, each offering its own unique character.

Kollam was once an important trading centre, with remnants of this still visible to this day.

Houseboats Kettuvalam, the local way of referring to houseboats, were once used as grain barges, but as road transportation overtook such needs, the vessels were converted into accommodation for visitors.

Now, there are more than 2,000 such houseboats found in the backwaters of Kerala.

Powered by motors, the kettuvalam go very slowly,

ensuring a smooth ride and the opportunity to take in the landscape and communities that line the waterways.

This is further facilitated by the fact that much of the deck space is open for passengers to enjoy the view.

Kettuvalam consist of a wooden hull with a thatched roof, but have all the amenities necessary for a pleasant stay. The level of comfort is classified as either platinum, gold or silver, depending on the requirements of the guests. Sleeping and eating aboard a kettuvalam is an experience not to be missed in Kerala, with onboard chefs bringing the taste of the region to the dining table.

2 The Causeway, Chippenham, Wilts, SN15 3BT

01249 447488

www.pebblestravel.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

45

Technology

What is the Internet of Things?

by Kate Duggan

T

HE ‘internet of things’ refers to electronic devices connecting to each other using the internet. It’s a way to collect information and improve efficiency. Take as an example, a Fitbit or other fitness-tracking device. These give you an indication of how many steps you’ve walked or ran in a day, your heart rate, calories burned and so on. You can also synch one to an app on your phone, or to an online account. Then you can check your progress over a week, how you compare to other people you’re sharing information with, how many calories you’ve burnt off and so on. If you also sync your account up with ‘smart’ scales, it’ll keep track of your weight and BMI, to give you a fuller picture of your health in one place.

Smart homes Smart home devices are becoming increasingly common. They let you control your heating, hot water, lights and other technology while you’re out of the house. Let’s say you’re running late from work.

You realise you’re going to miss your favourite TV programme, so you use your phone to set it to record.

You also postpone the heating coming on, and turn a light on so it looks like someone is home. At least you know your security cameras will send an alert to your phone if they detect any movement.

46 46

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017 The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

On the way home, you nip to the supermarket, but can’t remember whether you need milk. A couple of clicks and your smart fridge has sent you a photo of its contents. After buying the milk, you turn your heating on, and set your coffee machine to have a brew ready for when you get in.

Smart health The internet of things isn’t just about making our lives a bit easier. Trials are underway to see how it could help people with pre-existing medical conditions. Medical devices that patients use at home can collect data to give healthcare providers a better picture of a patient’s day-to-day health. Doctors can even be sent an alert if measurements go above or below a safe level.

Smart cities By using smart technology, and acting on data, cities could become more efficient. From bins that send an alert when they need emptying, to traffic lights that help reduce congestion, the internet of things is set to bring about a lot of changes. It may seem like sci-fi, but it might not be that long until you’re travelling in a driver-less vehicle, which knows exactly where there’s an available parking space, and any road closures to avoid on the way to your destination.

ELMERS

Little Acrons

WINDOW CLEANER

Gutter Cleaning.

Gutter Renewal and Repairs.

Contact Rich Elms Fast & reliable service Tel: 01249 814509

Grace’s

Maths English

Boosting Confidence Improving Ability FREE ASSESSMENT

01249 661133

Science 5-16 Years A Level Chemistry

KathysKreations Made to measure Curtains and Cushion maker All types of window dressings and alterations

Kitchen Makeover Are your kitchen cabinets OK, but the doors and drawer fronts are looking a little tired?

Why not consider a kitchen makeover?

By replacing the doors and drawer fronts plus a new worktop you can achieve the look of a new stylish kitchen.

Saving you time, money and a lot of upheaval.

Complete kitchens and bedrooms also available.

Extensive range of door colours and designs.

Home: 01249 815109 Mobile: 07849 313802

kathyskreations74@yahoo.com Find us on Facebook

We are a family run business with over 30 years experience in specialist carpentry and joinery.

We can plan, design and fit your kitchen complete including any building or alteration work.

Call Peter Galbraith now for a free survey and estimate Tel: 01793 741234 Visit our website @ pgalbraith24.wordpress.com The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

47

Money

Savings accounts explained W

HETHER you’re saving for a holiday or a rainy day, there are lots of ways you can earn interest on your money, from peer-to-peer lending to fixed rate bonds. The most popular options include:

separate account. That way your savings won’t disappear on paying the bills. Keep an eye open for offers. Lots of banks will offer you a bonus for opening an account, but you might have to pay in a minimum amount each month.

Cash ISAs Cash ISAs let you save up to £20,000 a year tax free. Fixed-rates ISAs tend to earn you more interest than easy-access ones, but you will have to pay a penalty if you withdraw money early. The new Lifetime ISA is for people under 40 who are saving for their pension, or for a first house. You can save up to £4,000 a year and the government will top it up by 25%.

Savings accounts Savings accounts aren’t paying huge levels of interest at the moment, but they are still worth a look. Regular savings accounts, where you put a fixed sum away each month, usually pay a little more. And ones where you lock your money away for a set time pay more again. The interest rate is still pretty low in most cases though, so you might want to consider other options first.

Bank accounts Some bank accounts are currently offering higher rates of interest than savings accounts. At the time of writing this article, Nationwide was offering 5% interest on balances up to £2,500, for the first year, for people paying in at least £1,000 every month. However, to use a bank account to save money in, you might want to open a 48

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

It’s not just about the AER AER stands for Annual Equivalent Rate. It shows you the percentage of interest you’d earn if you left your money in an account for a year. While the AER is certainly an important deciding factor, it’s not the only thing you’ll want to consider. Other questions to ask yourself include:

• Whether you want to be able to get to your money straight away if you need it.

• How long you’re planning to save for.

• Whether you want a guaranteed return or are prepared to take a risk in the hopes of making more money.

• Whether you want to save regular amounts each month, or lump sums.

• How you want your money to be invested.

• Whether the organisation aligns with your values (e.g. will it invest your money in animal testing, or green energy projects)?

• How good the customer service is. www.moneysavingexpert.com is a good place to visit to find out the latest ‘best-buys’. It also gives information about customer satisfaction rates.

by Kate Duggan

Sarah’s Soft Furnishings Curtains : Cushions : blinds and much more

Accounts Bookkeeping Self Assessment VAT General office duties Administration

Each order is priced individually and is a making up fee only, leaving you the flexibility to choose fabric to suit your budget.

n n n n n n

Call Sarah: 01249 822461 or 07770 995826

email: vflbusiness18@gmail.com

I offer a made to measure service to fit your individual requirements.

sarah’ssoftfurnishings

Tel: 01249 325529 07789 161668

See the magical crop circles, white horses and ancient monuments of Wiltshire from the air.

ID GI EA FT L

see me on facebook

VFL BUSINESS SUPPORT

Gift Flights from £60

The Wiltshire Microlight Centre ‘for the flight of your life’

SICK PC or LAPTOP? PC Hospital Surgeons On Call RAPID RESPONSE UNITS – FAST REPAIRS – We come to you • Computers restored to health • Intensive Care for crashed PC’s • RIP … Resurrection in progress • Qualified Surgeons COMP TIA A+ • Life Longevity Programme (Health Checks) • Body part replacement (Upgrades + Full Systems) • From £29 fixed Price repair (Plus any Components) • No Fix – No fee

PC HOSPITAL

01249 248346 or 07971 570869

Email: info@mypchospital.co.uk or visit www.mypchospital.co.uk

Yatesbury Field Nr Cherhill Wiltshire SN11 8HS Tel: 07836 554554 wiltsmicrolights.com

Calne Evangelical Church evangelical

Weekly activities for all ages Sunday family service 11.30am Crèche available

Evening service 6.30pm Youth groups for ages 0-18 Tots ‘n’ Dots toddler group Tuesday club primary school age Glow 9-12 years Lazer senior school age See church notice board, website or ring 821754 for more information www.calneevangelicalchurch.org.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

49

Health Matters

Discussing Dementia

I

by Emmy Butcher

DRIVE MY FAMILY BONKERS! I mean, I probably propel them up the wall for many reasons but there is one specific quirk I have which sends the Butcher clan berserk and can guarantee to have them all shouting at me with frustration. Every time we sit down to choose a family movie they will insist I have seen films with them which I have absolutely no recollection of. So I will say something like ‘Oh I wanted to watch this film’ and they will follow up with ‘we’ve seen it’, to which I will reply ‘have we? I can’t remember watching it, are you sure it was with me?’

I’m not being difficult, I generally cannot remember to the intense irritation of my family who will go to great lengths to jog my memory by recalling the plot, the ending, where we were sat when we watched it. It doesn’t work – it just makes it worse to be honest as I will then get film plots mixed up which just adds fuel to the inferno of frustration.

Lots of us will have a little memory loss as we grow older. Being forgetful from time to time is a normal human trait which can be affected by age, stress, tiredness or certain illnesses and medication. We often have people call the Surgery to apologise for missing their appointment and of course it’s annoying for everyone but understandable. We live in a world of information overload - it’s not surprising that our

50

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

brains find it difficult to keep up. We now send out reminder text messages of appointments and this certainly helps our busy patients.

Losing the remote control or your keys is normal but if your forgetfulness starts regularly interfering with daily life, you might want to visit your GP Surgery for a dementia assessment. One in three people over the age of 65 will develop dementia and it is estimated that by 2021 around one million people will have the disease.

You don’t have to worried about your memory to have a dementia assessment and it is recommended to have one yearly if you are 65 or older.

Dementia is used to describe the symptoms which cause illnesses associated with memory loss such as Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia can affect not only your memory but also how we communicate and our general thought processes. At present there is no cure for the disease but there are medications which can help to slow down its progress. Obviously, it’s better to start taking these medications as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can also mean that those close to you can offer support and help you plan for the future.

Last Spring, Calne became the first Wiltshire community to form a Dementia Action Alliance (DAA). The aim of the alliance is to create awareness

within the community to help people with dementia feel supported and respected by the Calne locality. GP Surgeries in Calne have signed up to join the Alliance together with a host of other local businesses in the community who are determined to ensure that their services and staff are ‘dementia friendly’. Shops, businesses, leisure facilities, day centres, police and fire services, homes for the elderly and clubs, groups and schools have all been conscripted by the DAA to join larger organisations such as Greensquare Housing Association and Wiltshire Council. By understanding dementia as a locality we can help to remove some of the stigma and fear which surrounds it and better support our community.

Hypnotherapy of Calne Sarah-Jane Morris

Dip Hyp Cs, Dip CP, Ad Dip Cp

Working on issues such as: Weight Loss Eating Disorders Depression Motivation Relaxation Anxiety Stress Management Phobias Domestic Abuse Low Self Confidence Relationship Issues Insomnia Abuse Exam Nerves Obsessive Disorders & more ...

You don’t have to be part of a group or employed by a DAA member to join in. Becoming a Dementia Friend is as easy as watching a video through www. dementiafriends.org.uk website. If you would prefer, you can also attend a face to face session – details of your local events can be found on the website too. Once you have registered, watched the video or attended a session you will be sent an information pack with your Dementia Friends badge. You can even make a pledge on how you are going to use your new dementia training to help your community. If you’re interested there is the opportunity to volunteer as a Dementia Champion, helping to raise awareness of dementia by holding local information sessions.

The Calne Community Area DAA meets every three months and welcomes support from across the community. If you are interested in being involved in any way please email either Jane Vaughan jane.vaughan@ wiltshire.gov.uk or Clare Harris charris@calne.gov.uk, and if you become a Dementia Friend let them know!

Group weight loss sessions on Thursdays 7/8pm £20 pp per session.

Book your place in advance

Having film plot amnesia really does mean I am a great person to watch a movie with, I will never give away the ending because I don’t remember it! However, don’t ask me to tell you about the last film I watched ….

I think it had Nicole Kidman in it …. or was it ….

Jennifer Anniston …. oh dear!

Emmy Butcher, Managing Partner Beversbrook Medical Centre emmybutcher@nhs.net

Email: hypnotherapyofcalne@gmail.com www.hypnotherapyofcalne.co.uk Contact Sarah-Jane

01249 817463 07947 829814 The Stables, Fishers Brook, Calne, Wilts SN11 9HB

Reflexology may help you with:   

Female Health Issues Headaches Digestive Issues Stress, Anxiety

 

Sleeping Issues and others...

Reflexology for Chippenham, Marlborough

Gabriela Slater Reflexologist & Maternity Reflexologist 07947 357 956 www.nureflexology.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

51

Health & Beauty

What does a Physiotherapist do?

by Susan Brookes-Morris

P

HYSIOTHERAPY can be defined as the use of physical methods such as massage, heat treatment and exercise to treat those affected by illness, injury or disease, rather than the use of surgery or drugs.

It can also be used to help reduce risk of injury or illness in the future.

Physiotherapists take a sciencebased approach and look at the whole person including their lifestyle and general wellbeing.

They educate patients so they can become involved in their own care and often give advice about posture, lifting techniques and the correct ways to carry objects. They frequently recommend exercises to strengthen specific parts of the body and improve overall health and mobility. These may be exercises which are done at home or they may suggest exercises which are done in warm, shallow water known as hydrotherapy, or general activities such as swimming and walking. They also use manual therapy. This may be the aforementioned massage

52

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

or other forms of manipulation.

Some physiotherapists also use specialist methods such as acupuncture, ultrasound and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (where mild electric currents are passed through the skin).

Physiotherapy is commonly used to treat back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain and sports injuries as well as movement problems following a stroke or resulting from multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease. It can also assist with rehabilitation after a heart attack, and lung and breathing difficulties such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis. Some also use it in preparation for child birth.

Physiotherapy is available on the NHS and via private therapists.

To become a qualified physiotherapist in the UK, you must pass an approved degree.

This will take three years if you study full time and around six years if you study part time. You

will need three A Levels to get onto most courses and these will usually need to include a biological Science and possibly PE, as well as at least five GCSE’s including Maths, English and one Science. There are also some accelerated MSc’s available for those with non-cognate degrees.

To be successful therapists need to show an aptitude for caring as well as knowledge of physiotherapy.

Physiotherapists need to be good listeners, motivators and able to explain treatments clearly and calmly. In addition they should also have good manual skills and be physically fit themselves as the work can often be strenuous.

To practice in the UK, physiotherapists must register with the Health and Care Professions Council and have professional liability insurance. They have to keep their knowledge and skills up to date and pay an annual retention fee. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists is the professional, education and trade union body for around 56,000 physiotherapists in the UK.

Come and see us in our new salon for all your requirements for the Easter holidays.

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED

01249 660263 9 EMERY GATE, CHIPPENHAM WWW.LA-BARBER.CO.UK

Mobile Amanda Phillips Hairdresser

SPECIALISING IN BRIDAL HAIR COLOUR Highlights £45 HAIRCUTS Cut and blow dry £25 Wet cut £20 Gents £10 07889 744727 Children £7 amandapagethairdesign@hotmail.com

live happy! with

Slimming World Join a warm and friendly group near you today ...

MONDAY 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm Masonic Hall Stanier Road, Calne Georgie 07500 970751 THURSDAY 5.30pm and 7.30pm St Michael's Church Hall, Lyneham Wendy 07342 901930

Disco mania

slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

53

Health & Beauty

Pamplemouse Bespoke Hair Design & Beauty Salon Look & Feel Fantastic

Hair Services

Beauty Services

Calne’s Premier Joico Salon

HD Brows,

Joico Colouring centre

Lash Lift & Tinting

Creative cutting

Acrylic Nail Enhancements

Brazilian Smoothing treatments

Gelish Manicure

Hair Extensions

Lycon hot Waxing

Bridal Hair service

Spray Tan

Pedicure

Tel: 01249 812002

On line booking coming soon

11 Church Street, Calne, SN11 0HU www.pamplemouse.net hair@pamplemouse.net

Read our reviews on facebook

• • • • • • • •

PHYSICAL PAIN? EMOTIONAL DISTRESS? Contact:

Michael Phoenix Member of the British Acupuncture Council

Calne

Acupuncture

and non-needling treatments appointments available at

Beversbrook Medical Centre

Telephone: 01793 434358 Mobile: 07790 466614 www.calneacupuncture.co.uk

54

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Corns Nail Trimming Verrucae Hard Skin Athlete’s Foot Ingrown Toenails Nail Infections Cracked Heels (fissures)

Clinics available at:

foot health care Sina Ohms MCFHP MAFHP

Foot Health Practitioner

The Chippenham Natural Therapy Centre Lodge Road (above Lodge Surgery) Chippenham, SN15 3SY Tel: (01249) 443390 The Oxford Practice 5 Oxford Street Malmesbury, SN16 9AX Tel: (01666) 824560 Home Visits: Tel: (01666) 838683 Mob: 07593 324128 www.foot-health-care.co.uk

Weekly Local Classes

A watery world of confidence, skill and fun!

To give your baby a splashing start call

01249 248863

or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk Let’s teach your baby to swim!

We have classes for new born babies up to school age. For more information, please give us a call or find our facebook www.facebook.WaterBabiesWiltshire

15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

CHARITY DAY

SATURDAY 22ND APRIL A percentage of all our services on the day will go towards our nominated charities:

CALL 01249 813991 36 CHURCH STREET, CALNE, SN11 0HZ WWW.HAIRANDBEAUTYBYSOLO.CO.UK

CLASSES Goatacre, nr Lyneham Monday mornings Saturday mornings

starts May starts May

Larkrise, Trowbridge Tuesday afternoon Thursday afternoon

starts May starts May

St Nicholas School, Chippenham Wednesday afternoon starts May Thursday afternoon starts May Friday afternoon starts May Saturday afternoon starts May Harry's Hydro, Frome Monday mid day Tuesday mid day Wednesday afternoon Sunday Morning

starts May starts May starts May starts May

Hobbs Hydro, Evercreech Monday afternoon Thursday afternoon Saturday mornings

starts May starts May starts May

St Mary's Sports Centre, Caine Thursday morning starts May Friday morning starts May

We're looking for pools to hire.

Do you know anyone with a warm pool?

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

55

Pet Health

Pitter Patter Paws (Part 1) A guide to choosing your pet

by Danielle Giles, Heathside Veterinary Surgery www.heathsidevets.co.uk

S

O, the festive season is long gone and you did the responsible thing by not caving in to the children's demands to getting a kitten or a puppy for Christmas. Well done you! The stress on an established pet at Christmas is enormous, let alone on a new puppy or kitten. And the added pressure on you? Well let's not go there.

So now the days are getting longer, we are starting to venture outside and begin to feel good that spring has sprung and summer is on its way.

Maybe now is the right time to get that family addition; whether cat, dog, rabbit, guinea pig or hamster the days are longer and a new experience beckons.

So, which is it to be? Deciding on the right pet for your home and lifestyle needs careful consideration. (1) the size of your house and garden; (2) how much exercise will your new fur-babe require? (3) holidays - now there's a stumbling block! Added complications some people don't want include kennel/cattery, house sitter or granny? It all needs thought if your new addition to the household is to be a lifetime commitment. If you think you might tire and get fed up of having an added responsibility in the household, then please don't do it.

Once you have decided on your ideal companion whether a cat or dog where are you going to get him or her from (now there's another consideration!)?

Rescue centre? Breeder? Can I hit you with this statistic? In 2016 alone there were over 250,000 cats and dogs in registered sanctuaries throughout the UK. Some lost, some abandoned, all through no fault of their own. Large, medium, small; long coat, short coat; long nosed, squashed nose; black, brown, ginger...they are all there. Young, old; neutered, microchipped, wormed and vaccinated they are all there in rescue centres awaiting their ‘furever’ homes.

I am a great advocate for rescue centres and yes, they have 'breed' pets too. My blue Persian Delphine came from the RSPCA and I had her for over 16 years, I loved that girl. There are plenty of breed rescue organisations too; look them up and you never know what fate will bring you. You may not feel you are making a difference to the vast numbers of unwanted

56

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

pets, but to that one animal you will make a difference to his or her world. Think on it.

So, you have your heart set on the breed of cat or dog and have taken into account its exercise and grooming needs and feeding requirements. Have you considered its predisposition to health issues? Be aware some breeds are renowned for hip dysplasia, respiration and skin problems to name but a few. Apart from being expensive and time-consuming (visits to the vet, administering medication etc.) it will cause untold heart ache, believe me.

Buy from a reputable breeder, most sell through word-of-mouth as they don't need to advertise. Contact the kennel club and cat breed societies for advice.

People are still buying from puppy farms and this amazes me... These poor unfortunates are in general weak specimens and disease ridden. If they were TV’s, they would not be fit for purpose and returned. Try getting your money back from these unscrupulous rogues!

And when you have finally found your litter and the breeder (after carefully questioning your motives to buy one of his/her pups/kittens) is happy to sell you one, that little bundle of fluff will probably pitter patter over and choose you. Enjoy ...

WAGGIES

Home from home for your dog!

The no kennels approach to canine care ‐ Day Care and Residential Stays ‐ Experienced dog handler ‐ Daily walks in lovely countryside ‐ No kennels, just comfy beds in my kitchen ‐ Fully licensed and insured established business - Local to Calne

07957 600959

rachel.waggies@outlook.com Go on holiday and let your dog go on holiday too!

CJ ST

Very Reliable & Friendly Services

Email: info@calneelectrician.com

An Extensivewww.calneelectrician.com Resort set in the Heart of the Wiltshire Countryside Call Colin on: Purpose built Hotel offering so much more than just boarding.

01249 822033 or The ultimate in care and comfort Underfoot Heating 07887 765250

Dogsbodies

Tv’s and Music Private 50 sq ft terrace with en-suite facilites Country walks twice daily Very competitive rates Family business offering personal service.

s.indd 1

Tel: 07815 836953 email: maxcolbourne@me.com

Calne Cats and Co Steve’s Appliance Services Bespoke Home Pet Care by Angela Billington RVN

Fridges - Freezers - Cookers - Microwaves - Dryers

Domestic Refrigeration Specialist

Hello, I'm Angie and I LOVE CATS! I am a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) providing at home care for cats and small animals, EPAIRS ERVICING offering an affordable alternative to catteries.

Please visit my website for further information or contact me on:

R

-S

Tel/Fax 01249 821936 Mobile: 07877 055680 07957 627 670

Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk

www.calnecatsandco.uk

Dog Grooming Salon

Professional Dog Grooming Environment

The care and comfort of your pets is our business  

Telephone:

01249Award 740437 winning friendly salon providing your dog, with a caring, relaxing and Hare Street Farm, experience. professional

Hare Street Handstripping & Microchipping available.

East Tytherton Collection & delivery available within the Chippenham local area for a small charge.

SN15 4LZ For an appointment call Lucy:

- INSTALLATION - SALES



Quakers Lane, Goatacre, Calne.

Tel: 01249 760289

    

D

Licensed Boarding Kennels & Cattery.

Special diets and medication catered for.

Fully insured for your pets welfare.

Friendly and experienced staff.

Heated accommodation.

A variety of food available.

All dogs exercised regularly.

Open all year.

www.cortonkennelsandcattery.co.uk Email: info@cortonkennelsandcattery.co.uk

Mob: 07989 500205 dogsbodiesgrooming@googlemail.com Find us on Willowbrook Farm, Stockley, Calne

www.dogsbodiesgrooming.com

Established 1982 - Licensed pet shop for 34 years

SHIRLEY’S

PET SHOP

Dedicated to serving the people of Calne for 34 years Now in stock Finches, Goldfish and Hamsters. Frozen Dogmeat from Natures Menu. Frozen and live Reptile Food.

PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ON ALL ASPECTS OF PET CARE Royal Canin & James Wellbeloved retailer.

Large selection of Burns wet and dry food and treats. Join our Burns Loyalty Scheme

Tel: 01249 817089 29 High Street, Calne

We offer a key cutting service All major credit cards accepted www.calnepetandgarden.com

Pop in or pick up the phone we are glad to help

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

57

Auto-Biographies

New 2017 Honda Civic T

by Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist - @carwriteups

HE Honda Civic has been around forever. It’s one of those Japanese brands that has never faded away or changed into anything else, and it’s remarkable to think it’s been on our roads since 1972.

gearbox, but we’d recommend trying the six-speed manual gearbox as it feels excellent in the hand and gratifying to work with.

It’s also to the Civic’s credit that it stays hushed and refined, regardless of the flashy undercurrent.

The 2017 Civic is the 10th generation of the model, and Honda claims it wanted to bring back the essence of a practical, yet entertaining vehicle to drive. To do this, the firm has spent time reengineering this fresh Civic from top to toe.

The design of the all-new Honda Civic has changed. The exiting model is rounder, but the new Civic is like a compact saloon. It looks wider and smoother around the nose area, and the rear has an angular, level shape. Inside, the split-dash has been replaced by a smarter design – reminiscent of the lovely 90’s Honda dashboard layouts. This is a nod to an age when the Japanese automaker made some of its best cars.

The all-new Honda Civic marks the introduction of two petrol units – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder ‘VTEC Turbo’ and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder power plant. The 1.0-litre yields 129PS, and will do 55mpg, while the 1.5-litre produces 182PS and 48mpg of fuel economy.

Undoubtedly, the tenth incarnation of the Civic is an improvement over the last model, handling well on the test route that we took it out on around Barcelona in Spain. And the new power units – of which we drove the 1.5-litre variant – are first-rate, with lots of keen delivery, although the 1.5 i-VTEC Turbo Sport is not as potent as its athletic body suggests.

The new ‘VTEC Turbo’ engine can be joined to a CVT automatic

The 2017 Honda Civic will be made in Swindon, a factory that has turned out well-built cars for some time now. The British plant will be constructing the model not just for the UK, but for the whole world.

This is the inaugural ‘global’ Civic, meaning it’s being made with no specific changes for regions, other than the obvious adaptations for left and right-hand drive markets.

Topping the features of the new Civic is Honda’s ‘Connect’ infotainment unit, which is companionable with Android Auto and Apple Car Play operating

systems. The other headliner, in terms of kit, is Honda’s safety technology bundle, known as ‘Sensing’. It merges several bits of tech to keep you safe and sound.

Features include lane keeping assistant, forward collision warning adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.

Due to changes to the structure of the Civic, the ‘Magic Seats’ that made for simple loading of big objects are now absent. Despite this, the boot still holds a notable 478-litres, so it is by no means an issue.

Honda has announced the price-tag of its up-to-date Civic, and it will start from £18,335 increasing to £27,295, depending on which trim level you want.

The all-new Honda Civic is a great effort from the Japanese firm, and brings it right into serious competition with hardcore rivals like Ford’s Focus and VW’s Golf.

The way the tenth-generation Civic looks, feels, and goes means the opposition should be worried. Now we must wait for the diesel and the ultra-hot Type R to make their entrance.

PROS ‘N’ CONS • Attractive √ • Hi-tech √ • Kit √ • British-built √ • Divisive image X FAST FACTS (1.5 182PS i-VTEC Turbo Sport manual – as tested) • Max speed: 136 mph • 0-62 mph: 8.2 secs • Combined mpg: 48.7 • Engine layout: 1498cc 4-cylinder turbo petrol • Max. power (PS): 182 • CO2: 133 g/km • Price: £22,470

58

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

CALNE’S HALF PRICE TAXI AIRPORT and SEAPORT TRANSFERS

Calne – Heathrow £75 Calne – Bristol Airport £45 Prestige Volvo Car 8 Seat Minibus available

Ring Mike on

07 9999 5 3333

calnehalfpricetaxi.com

Est 2005

NEW DEPOT

n Free Tyre Pressure / Condition Check n Tyres • Batteries • Exhausts FREE n Wheel Alignment Specialists TYRE CHECKS n MOT Arrangement & Repairs n Motorcycle Tyres & Alloy Wheels n Brakes, Servicing & General Repairs n Diagnostics now available.

Servicing

MOST MAKES AND MODELS Short Service £75 Intermediate Service £150 Full Service £200 Inc VAT Original quality parts used

Friendly family business Quality service and competitive prices For honest, friendly advice call us on

01249 811145

Our unbeatable mobile service is still available • Roadside Assistance • Mobile Puncture Repairs and Tyre Fitting • Battery Quick Start and Replacement

crosscountry.tyres@googlemail.com Unit 6, Porte Marsh Rd, Calne SN11 9BW Full credit card facilities available

M. W. SERVICES (Calne) Ltd

All Makes of Cars Repaired and Serviced Est. 1982

NEW Town Crier App Free to download on Android and iOS

❖ MOT Preparation & Presentation

and Light Commercial

❖ Vans

❖ Diagnostics ❖ Welding

Repairs

❖ Exhausts,

Batteries

Major Credit Cards accepted

❖ All

Tel: 01249 817858 Wessington Yard, London Road, Calne SN11 0AP

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

59

Gardening

Fuchsia perfect

by Rachael Leverton

Make sure you pinch out the shoot tips frequently. It delays the flowers a little but they will become bushy little plants which produce more flowers in the long-run.

If you have a smaller plot try “Tom Thumb” or “Alice Hoffman”.

They are named after a 16th Century German herbalist and physician called Leonard Fuchs.

Lots of gardeners struggle to spell fuchsia but if you think of his name and stick and ‘ia’ on the end you have it!

In mild areas or at the seaside they can grow into huge shrubs. Elsewhere hard frosts see off most of the top growth in winter, then new shoots burst up from the soil in the spring, maturing into small shrubs about 2-3 feet / 60-100cm tall.

At this time of year rooted cuttings are cheap. Grow them on for a few weeks under cover, changing the pot to a slightly larger one as they grow, then plant them out in May. Choose a sunny spot in welldrained soil.

60

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

There are lots of lovely varieties.

“Mrs. Popple” is tall with red and purple flowers. “Mrs. W. P. Wood” is paler with pearly flowers. I have a soft spot for “Whiteknight’s Pearl” which is a beautiful pale pink.

Once they are mature you can more or less leave them to it.

Simply sprinkle a handful or two of fertiliser around them in the spring and again in the summer.

It’s a little known fact that the berries and inner petals of fuchsias are edible (though it’s worth noting that ‘edible’ doesn’t mean they necessarily taste good!). However there is now a variety bred especially for eating. It’s called “Berry” and produces fruit with a flavour something like a sweet fig. The fuchsia berries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

They don’t have a long shelf life so pick them when they are soft and squishy and eat them fresh, or freeze small quantities as you collect them, until you have enough to make fuchsia jam or add to muffins, much as you might add blueberries.

Inset: iStock.com/isuaneye

I

LOVE HARDY FUCHSIAS. They are some of the most rewarding plants to grow.

They are easy to propagate, flower well and are not the least bit temperamental.

Regular lawn mowing from £12 per visit

01249 541010

GardenRoomChippenham.co.uk Commercial grass cutting services also available.

Vegetable Plants, Patio & Basket Plants, Seasonal Fresh Fruit & Veg, Bedding Plants etc. Trade and Retail Hanging Baskets made to order.

Bring your own or buy one of our ready-made baskets.

Everything grown on the Nursery.

Friendly Cheerful Staff.

Competitive prices. Quality Plants.

Have a look at our website or facebook page for more information on opening times 9 Sutton Lane, Langley Burrell, Chippenham SN15 4LW

Tel: 01249 720522 M: 07885 845271 www.meadowfarmnurseries.co.uk info@meadowfarmnurseries.co.uk

Paving & Walling

GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 January 15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah

• Groundworks • Driveway specialists • Patios paths and walling • Fencing • Natural stone & Block paving

Fully insured professional fitters Free consultation and advice

Mobile: 07539 926498 Office: 01249 812959 info@adpavingandwalling.com www.adpavingandwalling.co.uk

PATIOS | DECKING | FENCING | GARDEN WALLS | PONDS | PATIOS | DECKING | FENCING DRIVEWAYS | BLOCK PAVING | GARDEN WALLS | PONDS | FREE - Prompt Quote DRIVEWAYS | BLOCK PAVING Call Michael on: FREE - Prompt Quote t: 01249 540128 m: 07737 001383 e: michael@acresahead.co.uk Call Michael on:

w: www.acresahead.co.uk acres ahead landscaping t: 01249 540128 m: 07737 001383 e: michael@acresahead.co.uk w: www.acresahead.co.uk acres ahead landscaping The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

61

Gardening

F.J. SNELL (Est.1963)

Improve the look of your garden All types of quality hard and soft wood fencing at competitive prices Commercial and Domestic Fully insured

Tel: 07949 005867

Ian Marsh Arboriculturist (Tree Surgeon)

Reductions and reshaping Dismantling, felling and thinning

‘Tree Planting & Fence Erecting’

For a FREE Quote Call:

T:01249 816399 M: 07786 641773 www.ianmarshtrees.co.uk

EARTHMOVING SERVICES www.earthmovingservices.net

• Garden/site shaping, levelling and clearance Micro excavator, • Footings, trenches and ditches excavated minimum access • Sub-bases, soakaways and land drains width required: • Concrete, tarmac, hedge and stump removal 29 inches (730mm) • 0.75-7.5 ton excavators with driver For more information call Steve on

01793 848708 07967 341567

Building and Landscaping Specialists Regular or one off garden tidy-up service, weeding, pruning, lawn mowing, hedge trimming, and border maintenance (Calne only) Very competitive rate, free quotes given, fully insured and qualified (BTEC Horticulture Dist.)

I am professional, hard-working, friendly, honest and reliable, with an excellent plant knowledge and a genuine passion for gardening

BEST VALUE GUARANTEED • Full landscaped design • Durable fencing • Decking • Driveways • Patios • Wooden Outbuildings • Kitchens • Bathrooms

GETTING IT RIGHT FOR OVER 20 YEARS

TEL: 01249 812257 MOBILE: 07774 112548 www.calnebuilders.co.uk 62

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

FULL LANDSCAPING AND GARDEN DESIGN SERVICE • Decking • Fencing • Gates • Bespoke garden structures • Built stronger to last longer • Dream it and we will build it!

• Enjoy your outdoor space let us transform it!!

Fully Insured. 100s of references available.

Free No Obligation Quotations

07850 948482 www.mrfencing.co.uk

See more of our work on Facebook www.facebook.com/www.mrfencing.co.uk

We sell our plants at two schools in Chippenham Dates in April 2016: FROGWELL SCHOOL 1st, 2nd, 15th, 16th, 17th, 29th, 30th April & 1st May KING’S LODGE SCHOOL 8th, 9th, 22nd, 23rd April

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

63

Made Complete

I

n my article last month I wrote about the old Japanese art of fixing broken pottery called kintsukuroi (“golden repair”). It is done with a special lacquer dusted with powdered gold. Seams of gold glint in the cracks of the ceramics, giving them a unique appearance. I likened it to how God can take our brokenness and turn our cracks into seams of Gold.

But I wonder what it would be like if you could repair something so that it was fully restored, made complete.

So perfect that even the best antiques dealer wouldn't be able to identify where the pot was once cracked.

Now, I had the great privilege of travelling to Lebanon last year while on sabbatical. For the last five years Lebanon's population has grown by around 25% due to the influx of Syrian refugees. The Syrians and Lebanese have a complex history. Syria occupied Lebanon for 35 years during which time there was a 15 year civil war. I heard story after story of Lebanese whose family members had gone missing or were killed during that time. A Lebanese woman said: “I stood at gunpoint before Syrian soldiers as I held my ten month old boy and prayed for God to take me first before my husband and son, so I would not see them die” Another church leader said: “This entire town was under siege by Syrians for 100 days during the civil war, with no food or medical supplies allowed past.

They even cut the water supply. ” Story after story of pain and loss and grief.

Jesus’ followers in Lebanon had to make a very real choice in the last five years, the choice between loving or hating their enemies. They had to face a tough reality. Their enemies were hungry, lonely, and homeless. Jesus once said “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” so they did. The story I heard was the story of Jesus-following, heartchanging, life-altering love.

That woman who prayed at gunpoint is part of a church that cares for 500 displaced Syrian families. She has her ‘own’ five families that she visits one evening a week. Every week she has tea with her enemies, except now, of course, they are her friends. And her son who was ten months all those years ago is now working full time with the refugee population. She told me that learning to love her enemy was one of the greatest challenges she ever faced, but it has brought her great blessing. The

6464

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

brokenness that was once all around is being healed through the love of Jesus. The once septic wounds are now healed as if there were no wound in the first place.

There is an English word ‘atonement’, the meaning of which is simply ‘at-one-ment’. It is the state of being ‘in harmony’ or ‘being reconciled’. Atonement is reconciliation. That is why Jesus came, so that we might be able to look God in the face and be reconciled with him, be ‘in harmony’ with him and with all those around us. Followers of Jesus talk about ‘atonement’ being the reconciliation of God and humans through Jesus, Good Friday and Easter Day are the times when they remember it happened in all its fullness. Jesus’ death on the cross is the point at which he atones for all the evil in the world and all the wrong in our own lives.

What happens on the cross is a little bit like a married couple, where one has done something so terrible that the relationship would normally end. But just before the divorce is finalized the one who did nothing wrong says to their spouse, “I still love you. I have never stopped loving you. I want this relationship to continue.

I will absorb all the pain and hurt so that we can be reconciled.”

The cross was the symbol of the worst form of suffering, and on it Jesus entered into our pain and suffered so that we might have a restored relationship with God. Victory over evil was absorbed in that one moment. It is as though the cracks in our relationship with God are not just repaired but the relationship is as good as new; as though there were no cracks in the first place. Like the Lebanese who now love their enemies, who are now their friends.

All this would make no sense if it weren’t for Easter Day, when Jesus rose from the dead. There are no longer any barriers or cracks in our relationship with God. Love has taken all the pain and absorbed all the hurt.

We are forgiven, made complete, and Easter is the time we celebrate that.

Blessings on you all Rev Sam King (revsamking@talktalk.net) Design & Computer Graphics by Alexander S. Grenfell, Calne.

Dave Newton Fencing & Landscaping Est. 1988

FREE QUOTES • FULLY INSURED ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Tel: 07518 452132

Would you like to improve your garden?

Get professional advice, and a plan to work too.

Do you already know what you want?

We can make it happen.

: Planting & Landscaping : Plans : Patios : Pergolas : Walling : Fencing : Tree Management : Lawns : Water Features : Irrigation : Lighting etc

Tel/Fax on 01249 891442 or 07796 654775 Email: gbl.fox@btinternet.com

MH Tree Services For all aspects of tree surgery, stump removal & hedge trimming For a FREE quotation please call

07707 07707 375 375 961 961 01249 01249 892 813 103 486

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

65

Books

A Good Read

The Guilty One

by Lisa Ballantyne

.........................................................................................

It is true that the premise of this book may put some people off: eight-year-old Ben is found dead in a park and eleven-year-old Sebastian is arrested and charged with his murder. With echoes of other high profile cases it does ask us to question how our behaviour as adults can lead to horrific consequences.

However, it is a very well-written and gripping novel.

The focus of the story is Daniel, a solicitor chosen to represent Sebastian in court. Despite the child being quite difficult to warm to, Daniel sees something of himself in the boy and he begins to recall his own childhood as the son of a drug addict, who spent most of his time in foster care. Here the narrative splits and we discover his story in the mid-1980s interspersed in the current day court case.

Ballantyne successfully transports us back to a cold farm in the North of England where Daniel finally finds the warmth and love he has been looking for in the shape of his foster mother, Minnie. She immediately takes to this boy that no one else wants and an unlikely relationship develops between them. What becomes apparent though is that something went very wrong with the relationship and as an adult, facing the death of Minnie, and the trial of young Sebastian, Daniel is forced to confront his own childhood whilst we are left wondering who the guilty one really is.

The Bad Beginning: A Series of Unfortunate Events

by Lemony Snicket

.........................................................................................

There are some children’s books that invite you in.

Literature has long been used to escape from the real world and children’s literature is no exception.

66

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Whether it is an escape to a magical boarding school where you realise you are someone special, or a fantastical journey down a rabbit hole, you can expect to be welcomed into the new world for the next 200 or so pages.

Not so here. There is a very clear warning that you do not want to learn of the terrible events that will occur to the three Baudelaire children.

But tell a child not to do something and they most certainly will and so this novel – the first in the series – has been a hit with readers since it was first published in 1999.

With a new adaptation premiering on Netflix it seems a perfect time to return to the original story. Set in a timeless version of our world we are introduced to the Baudelaire’s: Violet, Klaus, and baby Sunny. Their life is turned upside down when their parents die in a house fire and they are sent to live with Count Olaf, a mysterious man who lives in a crumbling mansion and owns a theatre troupe.

You know from the beginning that this will not end well and are told “if you enjoy books with happy endings then you are best off reading another book.” You have been warned!

Reviews by Willow Coby

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 34

Wiltshire Wet Rooms Designed, supplied, fitted

Hale Veterinary Group Bank Row, Church Street, Calne

www.haleveterinaryhospital.co.uk

Telephone: 01249 815563

All operations performed at our RCVS approved Veterinary Hospital in Chippenham.

Surgery Times - by appointment only Monday to Friday 9.00 - 10am.

2.30 - 4pm & 4.30 - 6pm Saturday 9am - 10am

24 Hour Emergency Service

For your convenience we run an ambulance service on Monday to Friday twice a day.

Tony Warren

FUNERAL SERVICE Calne

Diploma in Funeral Directing

Local, Private Chapel of Rest designed with a home environment.

For Care & Kindness, please ask for

Tony Warren Highly Experienced & Respected Funeral Director serving the Calne community & surrounding areas for many years For further and information a brochure. t Please contac us on:

24 hour Personal Service - to all areas Traditional or Green Funerals. Home visits Modern Mercedes or 19th Century Horse-drawn hearse Pre - Paid plans Available

Tel:01249 811333

OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN BATHROOMS & WET ROOMS Bespoke projects including: Designs (usually free), Parts and Installation. With a large portfolio of previous work available on request my customers are guaranteed a bathroom or wet room like no other. I provide a complete service, including easy-access designs and parts.

Do you know that we have the second hardest water in the country?

We could have the solution!

There are so many reasons to have a water softener: - Complete Elimination of Limescale - Money Saving - Time Saving - Your Appliances Live Longer - Soft Water is so much nicer for you and your family

Wiltshire Wet Rooms can supply and fit Harveys Dualflo water softeners. We also stock Harvey’s block salt.

Free, in home, demonstrations provided in local area.

WILTSHIRE WET ROOMS Expert bathroom and wet room fitters in North Wiltshire Contact Geoff Pearce for a free quote 1 Bremhill View, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9EE T: 07860 863014 E: wiltswetroom@gmail.com W: www.wiltshirewetrooms.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

67

Jo Deacon

The Easter Fete Easter time was coming and the shops were full of eggs.

Jewelled ones, and chocolate ones And comic ones with legs.

For lunch they had a feast, set out upon a long, long table, They ate, and drank fresh lemonade, As much as they were able.

Children in the village school were working very hard, Making woolly chickens, Painting, sticking bits of card.

Then to the fete, with candy floss, hoopla and pony rides.

They threw rings for a coconut, Or bag with fish inside.

Miss Hool, their teacher, showed them how to make a cardboard nest , To sit their fluffy chickens in.

To show them at their best.

Miss Parr, Miss Dean, and young Miss Hool, sat chatting in the shade, Licking ice cream comets, As they watched the daylight fade.

Winter was long over, and upon the village green, There soon would be an Easter fete, The best one ever seen.

And when night fell, the fete closed down, and lanterns in the trees, Brightly glowed to show the way And flickered in the breeze.

The children were to have a competition, "fancy dress", Miss Parr, Miss Dean and Miss Hool, Would give prizes to the best.

The barn was draped with bunting, lanterns, tables set for tea.

With straw bales round the sides to sit on, Comfy as could be.

There was to be "egg rolling ", in a field on Dockery's Farm, Then in the evening, when dusk fell A dance held in the barn.

Tired children, in their fancy dress paraded up and down, "You all look fine, I cannot choose."

Said Miss Dean with a frown.

From getting up to going to bed, the day would be such fun, Excitedly, the children thought The waiting seemed too long.

'"Well, that's alright" Miss Hool then said, they all shall have a prize."

Then Misses Parr and Dean gave out small gifts, What a suprise.

Then all at once, the great day dawned, and children shrieked and pranced.

All decked out in their costumes In the field they ran and danced.

It had been such a lovely day, and only Billy Blue Had eaten so much he'd been sick As greedy children do.

They rolled their painted, hard boiled eggs as fast as they could run, Squealing with excitement, They were having so much fun.

When later on, washed and in bed, their tummies full of goodies, The tired and happy children felt They looked like little tubbies.

The children and the grown ups on one thing were all agreed, The Easter fete that year Had been the very best indeed. ............ Jo Deacon...@...2017 ............

68

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Building and Home Improvement

Your local independent builders merchant Our friendly helpful staff are here for the tradesman and DIY enthusiast alike.

For all your building, roofing and landscaping requirements please give us a call.

Stroud

Eastcombe

Thrupp

Woodchester

%01249 810200

Account facilities subject to status

FREE DELIVERY

within 15 miles

Beversbrook Industrial Estate, Redman Road, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9PL

Brownshill

Brimscombe

Chalford Building Supplies

Minchinhampton

Calne

A3102

Chalford Building Supplies

Redman Road Porte Marsh Road

Stainer Road

d

Opening times: Weekdays 7am to 5pm; Saturdays 7am to 12 noon calne@chalfordbuilding.co.uk

Chalford

Roa

Amberley

Bussage

A419

Oxf ord

Rodborough Common

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017 CBS Towncrier 156x222 April.indd 1

69

03/04/2014 13:38

Your Local

TownCr er Magazine Building and Home Improvement

To advertise call 01249 811068 • Driveways Block Paving, Tarmac and Gravel

• Footings • Drainage • Landscaping • Gate Installation

Ian Lucas Groundworks

Fully qualified and Insured Free quotations

07833 327338

ianlucas193@gmail.com

Natural Stone General Builders Walling & Paving with 20 years Kitchens & Bathrooms experience Alterations & Repairs Extensions | Conversions | Patios jobs of all sizes, free advice and estimates - call us

We can supply references

Tel: 01249 816274 Mobile: 07890 087703

All Home Improvements Plumbing, Joinery, Interior & Exterior Decoration And Maintenance Free quotes, no call-outs fees, No Job too BIG or small Established Family Business, Fully Registered and Insured Tel: 01249 819639 Mob: 07776 323495

Email: gregddurrant@gmail.com 70

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

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

DEARING

CONSTRUCTION

GENERAL BUILDERS SPECIALISING IN BRICKWORK CARPENTRY • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS EXTENSIONS & REFURBISHMENTS

Tel: 01249 820109 Mob: 07554 434394 Email: chris.wylde@hotmail.co.uk

Ged Byrne

Professional Handyman Services • Renovation, Restoration, and Repairs of old and new buildings, small and large, Domestic and Business • External and internal painting and decorating • Repairs to bargeboards and fascia boards • Internal & external door hanging • Water damage repairs • Stud walls and ceiling-height book cases, and more • Sound proofing

orsham

Landscapes and General Building

• BRICK & STONE WORK • BLOCK PAVING & PATIOS • GRAVEL DRIVEWAYS • EXTENSIONS & CONCRETING • DRYSTONE WALLING • DROPPED KERBS

• GARDEN DESIGN • FENCING & DECKING • TURFING & TREEWORK • CHIMNEY REPAIRS • FLOODING SOLUTIONS

Tel: 07557 569785 or 01225 811010

• Dry lining • Concrete paths, drives, shed bases, etc • Pointing, both traditional lime and modern mortars • Skirting, panelling, and floorboards and more - please ask Renovation, Restoration, Repairs Interior & exterior, Old and New Buildings

Mobile: 07835 302858 Tel: 0845 217 8673 E: ged_b@hotmail.com

Tim Lee

Building & landscapes

extensions | Garage Conversions Walls - stone/brick & blockwork Driveways | Fencing | Roofing Free Quotations l High Standard of Work

Call: 01249 821739 Mob: 07966 210015

RON WELCH

City & Guilds Qualified

Builder

No Obligation Estimates

Small building works & general maintenance/repairs

m: 07939 039035 t: 01249 819980 Email: RonWelchBuilding@aol.com

Contours Carpentry

• Wooden and Laminate Flooring • Door Hanging • Skirting and Architrave • Balustrade • Shelving and Bookcases • Bespoke Furniture • Cupboards and Storage Solutions

www.contourscarpentry.co.uk

07500 832198 or 01249 817082 contourscarpentry@hotmail.co.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

71

Building and Home Improvement For all your electrical needs: • Re-wiring • PAT Testing • Extra Sockets • Fault Finding • Lighting • Free Quotations • Electrical Installations • Testing & Inspection • Consumer Unit Changes

GRANTS

Nick Pocock Electrical

ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

NICEIC Registered Domestic Installer

T: 01249 461325 M: 07967 022446 nrpelectrical@hotmail.co.uk www.nrpelectrical.co.uk

Local, family run business offering a reliable and professional service to Calne, Chippenham, Corsham, Devizes and surrounding areas of Wiltshire.

We can help you with: • Rewires • Consumer Unit Upgrades • LED Lighting • Periodic inspections and Landlord Reports • Smoke Detection Circuits • Small Additions and Alterations • Home Automation and Smart Thermostats • Suppplies to Outbuildings and Garages • Electric Showers • Underfloor Heating • All other Domestic Installations Undertaken Call today to arrange a free quotation

37 Honeysuckle Close, Calne, SN11 9TE Mobile: 07775 447404 - Tel: 01249 325499

DAMP HOUSE?

DAMP HOUSE?

BLACK MOULD GROWTH? CONDENSATION A REAL BLACK MOULD GROWTH? PROBLEM?

CONDENSATION A REAL PROBLEM?

Email: info@grantselectricalservicesltd.co.uk Install a Heat Website: www.grantselectricalservicesltd.co.uk

Recovery System from as little as £600

Install a Heat Recovery System from as little as £600 Heat Recovery will Heat Recovery willfilter out stale, filter out stale, moisture-filled air and clean out moisture-filled airmaking and pollen and dust, your clean out pollen and home a cleaner and healthier dust, making your place to live. home a cleaner and

healthier place to live. needs For all your electrical (part P approved contractor)

An independent, friendly, family run business.

Fully insured.

For all your electrical needs (part P

Qualified electrician with over approved contractor) 16 years’ experience in property improvements

THERE IS A SOLUTION FROM AS LITTLE AS £600*

THERE IS A SOLUTION

*And it will only cost 1p a day to run or free if you have solar PV

Product manufacturer Before andAS after photographs FROM ASguidance.

LITTLE £600

provided by product manufacturer. *And it will only cost 1p a day to run or free if you have solar PV 72

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017 Please call Eaton Electrical

EatonElectrical An independent,

friendly, family run

business.

Tel: 07796 000927 Fully insured or 01666 838096

eatonelectrical75@gmail.com Qualified electrician with over 16 years’ experience in property

GUTTERING PROBLEMS?

ALL WEATHER PROTECTIONS

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE SERVICE

For all Types of Guttering

Weatherguard Windows & Conservatories Established 1988 No 14942

Insurance Backed Guarantee No Sales People Employed

WEEDS, MOSS & DIRT BUILDUP REMOVED, JOINS SEALED, OUTLETS UNBLOCKED We do regular rounds twice annually No job too small or too large!

FEEL FREE TO CALL 0800 474 8003 Or call direct on 07866 290 106 and ask for Steve

There is no call out fee or any charge for quotations!

Tel: 01249 812158 Mobile: 07860 366880

Cliff Laney Painting & Decorating Service

For all your painting and decorating needs, both interior and exterior Fully Insured

01249 816698 / 07904 466587 Age UK Wiltshire registered trader

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

73

Building and Home Improvement

Save with the Active Green Team Plumbing & Heating Supplies Plumbing & Heating Supplies Solar Panels & Heat Pumps Plumbing & Heating Supplies

• Complete Heating Systems • Solar Boiler Changes Panels & Heat Pumps Solar Panels & Heat Pumps Radiators & Underfloor Heating • Gas Appliances • Fault Diagnosis • Correction & Servicing • Bathroom Design& Underfloor Radiators Radiators Heating & Underfloor Water Softeners & Salt Heating • Installations & all your plumbing maintenance

Water Softeners & Salt Boilers & Cylinders Water Softeners & Salt ‘we will not be beaten on price’ All prices include VAT Boilers & Cylinders All areas in Wiltshire serviced. Free Quotes.

Call out charge £45 inc. VAT for first hour.

Tel: 01249 811313 Mob: 07859 931177 Email: graham.gas@btinternet.com

Boilers & Cylinders

T: 01249 818811 9 -10 Porte Marsh Road | Calne | SN11 9BW

www.activeplumbingsupplies.co.uk

D.P.S. Plumbing & Heating Engineer & Son Ltd. 25 years experience

Free Quotes

Advanced City & Guilds All work Guaranteed Call Dave on

Tel: 01249 822586 Mobile: 07968 561223

Email: stephens63@btinternet.com

Plumbing Mobile: 07969 383016 Phone: 01380 850494 Complete high quality bathroom installations Under Floor Heating installations General Plumbing and Heating installations & repair All types of property maintenance undertaken A prompt reliable service from a small local business All our work is fully insured and guaranteed

Web: www.plumbing4u.co.uk Email: graham@plumbing4u.co.uk 74

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

Special Offer for NEW CUSTOMERS in APRIL

BOILER SERVICING from £50 Price inclusive of VAT (excludes parts)

Emergency Lock & Door Opening All Types of Locks Supplied & Fitted Insurance Approved Locks “Turn to Alan Key Locks to get you in” Tel: 07852 338820 / 01249 822362

www.alankeylocks.co.uk “Add me to your mobile. You never know when you may need me”

P H

Ser vices

M

Max Colbourne OIL & GAS APPLIANCES. PLUMBING. HEATING. BATHROOMS. UNVENTED SYSTEMS. No Job too small Attention to detail guaranteed

Tel: 07815 836953 email: maxcolbourne@me.com

Steve’s Appliance Services

Fridges - Freezers - Cookers - Microwaves - Dryers

Domestic Refrigeration Specialist

REPAIRS - SERVICING - INSTALLATION - SALES

Tel/Fax 01249 821936 Mobile: 07877 055680 Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk The care and comfort of your STEVE pets is ourCOWLEY business   

Quakers Lane, Goatacre, Calne.

Tel: 01249 760289

  

Licensed Boarding Kennels & Cattery.

Special diets and medication catered for.

Fully insured for your pets welfare.

Friendly and experienced staff.

Heated accommodation.

A variety of food available.

Mob: 07795 836472 All dogs exercised regularly.

OpenTel: all year.

01249 824787

For all your Plumbing & Heating

SRC PLUMBING www.cortonkennelsandcattery.co.uk & HEATING Derry Hill, Calne Email: info@cortonkennelsandcattery.co.uk  

Cleanstart

Property Maintenance Company

Handy Man Service

• Guttering/facia replacement • Gutter/fascias cleaned & repaired • Exterior & interior painting & decorating • Grass cutting & garden maintenance

Tel: 01249 249355 M: 07856 543292

Email: info@clean-start.co.uk Check out www.clean-start.co.uk for offers

Is your Plumbing Garage Door Aquarius A Bore?

Specialising in Full Bathroom Installations, Wet Rooms and Tiling

DIAMOND DOORS

24/7 No Call-out Charge FREE Quotations All Work Guaranteed

No call out charge - for a free quotation call Darren Jackson on 07817 052467 Replace it with an automatic insulated roller shutter.

Gain space on your drive.

Win more precious space in your garage.

Spend less on heating.

Enjoy the luxury of an automatic garage door.

Choose a great maintenance-free colour Take advantage of generous warranty terms.

Keeps your garage cleaner.

Features two remote controls.

Special courtesy light for added convenience.

Trusted local supplier

CALL JOHN ON 01249 750371 TO ORDER

R.T.C DECOR GARAGE

DOORS

Ltd

Plastering, Est: over 30 yrsPlumbing Handyman Services All&Leading Makes

Huge Choice of Styles - Up & & Overplumbing - Sectional For all your plastering/painting Roller - Side Hinged Doors needs and much much more...

New & Existing Doors Automated (Remote Control)

To find out more give me&aServicing call Garage Door Repair

FREE Quotation for new doors & automation

Robert 01249 890492 mobile 07825 758705

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

75

Building and Home Improvement

Skyline

Heating Services

...Helping you save for the future

(Subject to contract)

y Energ nt Efficieved Appro

P

Max Colbourne Ser vices

M

OIL & GAS APPLIANCES. PLUMBING. HEATING. BATHROOMS. UNVENTED SYSTEMS. No Job too small

Gas Appliance Servicing Central Heating Upgrades Boiler Exchanges Full Central Heating Systems Gas Cooker & Fire Installations Heat Pump Installations Oil Heating Installations (BETEC Qualified) Solar Installation Is your Garage Door Plumbing New Bathrooms, Kitchens etc A Bore?

Water Softeners

DIAMOND DOORS

FREE

Extended up to 10 years warranty available on new boiler installations

1 Oxford Court, Calne, Wilts. SN11 8AF H Tel: Attention to detail guaranteed/ Mob: 07860 641777 01249 822916 Email: sky.line@btconnect.com Tel: 07815 836953 www.skylineheating.com email: maxcolbourne@me.com

Steve’s Appliance Services

Fridges - Freezers - Cookers - Microwaves - Dryers

Domestic Refrigeration Specialist

REPAIRS - SERVICING - INSTALLATION - SALES

Tel/Fax 01249 821936 Mobile: 07877 055680 Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk 76

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

The care and comfort of your pets is our business

Replace it with an automatic insulated roller shutter.

Gain space on your drive.

Win more precious space in your garage.

Spend less on heating.

Enjoy the luxury of an automatic garage door.

Choose a great maintenance-free colour Take advantage of generous warranty terms.

Keeps your garage cleaner.

Features two remote controls.

Special courtesy light for added convenience.

Trusted local supplier

CALL JOHN ON 01249 750371 TO ORDER

All aspects of Carpentry Bespoke Furniture, Door Hanging and Adjusting Wood & Laminate Flooring Interior & Exterior Tel: 01249 813734 Mobile: 07415 607968 email: s.m.carpentry@hotmail.com

David Beal 26 Years Experience

ROOFING LEADWORK FASCIAS, SOFFITS & GUTTERING TIMBERWORK BUILDING SERVICES

White Horse Roofing Ltd

CALL US

White Horse Roofing specialises in: FOR FREE QUOTES • Traditional Roofing • Leadwork & Lead Burning • UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering T: 01249 819128 M: 07788 885699 E: info@whitehorseroofing.com • EPDM Rubber Flat Roofs www.whitehorseroofing.com • Building Services 103 London Road, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0AD • Timberwork

Tel: 07736 879326

Roofing Ltd

Roofing al building ditioinnall TraExperts works, ut: O g n i y r r a C t s li renovations, pecia conversions, decorating, S kitchens and bathrooms for your home or business Slating & Tiling Stone Tiling Leadwork UPVC Fascias & Guttering enquiries@priorandcompany.com Cedar The Shingles Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF

Specialists in all roofing, Upvc fascias, soffits and guttering, leadwork, chimneys and sundry works for your home or business enquiries@mardenroofing.co.uk The Courtyard, Bath Road, Shaw, Melksham SN12 8EF

Insurance Backed Guarantee Available For a FREE survey and quote call:

01249 821237 visit our website: www.priorandcompany.com www.daylangleedroofingltd.co.uk Prior and Marden joint advert.indd 1

www.mardenroofing.co.uk 26/01/2015 14:03

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

77

Index of Advertisers AUCTIONEERS Wessex Auction Rooms ......................... 80 BOOKEEPING/ACCOUNTS VFL Business Support............................. 49 BUILDERS/BUILDING SUPPLIES AM Chivers Building............................... 71 All Home Improvements........................ 70 Chalford Building Supplies..................... 69 Corsham Landscapes and Building......... 71 Dearing Construction............................. 71 Downland Construction......................... 70 Ged Byrne.............................................. 71 Ian Lucas................................................ 70 Jewson Chippenham................................ 9 Prior & Company Building...................... 70 Ron Welch.............................................. 71 Tim Lee Building.................................... 71

ELECTRICIANS/ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES Calne Appliances.................................... 27 Eaton Electrical...................................... 72 Electrical Man........................................ 73 Grants Electrical..................................... 72 Nick Pocock Electrical............................. 72

HEATING Skyline................................................... 76

SEWING KathysKreations..................................... 47

HOME & INTERIORS Goldmans Interiors........................... 31, 33 Sarah’s Soft Furnishings ........................ 49

SLIMMING Slimming World .................................... 53 Weightwatchers....................................... 7

FITNESS Stuart Dinwoodie................................... 51

HOME MAINTENANCE Cleanstart.............................................. 75 Odd Jobs................................................ 76 Senior Citizen Services........................... 13

SWIMMING Water Babies.......................................... 55

FLOORING/CARPET SERVICES BSB Flooring ......................................... 35 George Taylor Carpet Fitter ................... 35 Goldmans Flooring................................. 31 iKlean..................................................... 35 Total Carpets & Flooring......................... 19 FLORISTS Shirley’s Florists .................................... 27

CAR REPAIR/VEHICLE SERVICES AM Autocare............................................ 1 Cross Country Tyres................................. 59 MW Services.......................................... 59 Sawmills Garage.................................... 59

FOOD & DRINK Allington Farm Shop.............................. 39 Flying Pig Cake Company....................... 37 George Inn at Sandy Lane...................... 37 Goatacre Village Hall.............................. 15

CARE/CARE HOMES/RETIREMENT Brunel House.......................................... 43 Hill House............................................... 19 Kingston House...................................... 15

FUNERAL DIRECTORS Odette.................................................... 25 Tony Warren ......................................... 67 E Wootten & Son.................................... 29

CARPENTER/JOINER Contours Carpentry................................ 71 SM Carpentry......................................... 77

GARDENING/FENCING/LANDSCAPING Acres Ahead........................................... 61 AD Paving & Walling.............................. 61 Cleanstart.............................................. 75 Dave Newton Fencing............................ 65 ES Earthmoving...................................... 62 FJ Snell Fencing...................................... 62 Franks Plants.......................................... 63 Garden Room......................................... 61 Graham Fox............................................ 65 Ian Marsh............................................... 62 Jon Burton............................................. 62 Meadow Farm Nurseries......................... 61 MH Tree Services.................................... 65 MR Fencing............................................ 63 Prune and Broom Ltd............................. 27 Quemerford Landscaping....................... 65 Turners Landscapes................................ 63 Under the Ivy......................................... 62

CHURCHES Calne Evangelical Church ...................... 49 CLEANING/DOMESTIC SERVICES Cleanstart.............................................. 75 iKlean..................................................... 35 Ovenclean ............................................ 35 Prune and Broom Ltd............................. 27 COACH HOLIDAYS Barnes Coaches...................................... 23 COMPUTER/IT/GRAPHICS/WEB Bound Books.......................................... 15 Calne Computer Services ...................... 15 PC Hospital............................................. 49 CONSERVATORY Go Greenspace....................................... 17 Thermoglaze............................................ 3 Weatherguard........................................ 73 CURTAINS/BLINDS Goldmans Interiors................................. 33

EDUCATION/CHILDCARE Grace Tuition Centre .............................. 47 Little Acorns Childminding Group ......... 47 78

MOBILITY Mobility Store........................................ 25 MORTGAGES & EQUITY RELEASE Providus................................................. 79 Platinum Mortgage Solutions................ 15

VETS Hale Veterinary Group............................ 67

MICROLIGHT FLIGHTS Wiltshire Microlight Centre ................... 49

WATER SOFTENERS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 67

PAINTERS/DECORATORS/PLASTERERS ACM Decorating..................................... 73 Alan Clifford Painter & Decorator............ 73 AS Plastering.......................................... 73 Cliff Laney.............................................. 73 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 75

WET ROOMS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 67

PETS/CATS/DOGS Calne Cats & Co....................................... 57 Corton Kennels....................................... 57 Great Bounds......................................... 57 Grittenham Grooming............................ 57 Hobsons Regal Hounds........................... 14 Shirleys Pet Shop................................... 57 Waggies Dog Day & Residential Care...... 56

WILL WRITING Goodwills............................................... 19 WINDOW CLEANERS Elmers Window Cleaning Servs. ............ 47 WINDOWS & DOORS Thermoglaze .......................................... 3 Weatherguard........................................ 73 WEBSITE Bound Books ......................................... 15

PEST CONTROL Wiltshire Pest Control ........................... 35

HANDY MAN Cleanstart.............................................. 75 Ged Byrne.............................................. 71 Odd Jobs................................................ 76 Senior Citizen Services........................... 13

PLUMBING/HEATING/SUPPLIES ABC Plumbing........................................ 75 Active Plumbing Supplies...................... 74 Aquarius Plumbing & Heating................ 75 Max Colbourne Oil & Gas........................ 75 DPS Plumbing & Heating....................... 74 F.S. Plumbing & Heating........................ 74 Graham Gas & Plumbing Services.......... 74 Plumbing 4U.......................................... 74 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 75 Steve Cowley.......................................... 75 Skyline................................................... 76

HEALTH CARE/FOOT CARE Calne Acupuncture................................. 54 Fiona Stubbs.......................................... 51 Foot Health Care..................................... 54 Nureflexology......................................... 51

ROOFING/TILING/THATCHING David Beal Thatcher............................... 77 Daylan Gleed Roofing............................. 77 Marden Roofing..................................... 77 White Horse Roofing.............................. 77

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS/VENUES CalneFest............................................... 11 Chippenham Folk Festival...................... 12 Chippenham Rotary............................... 16 Farmtastic.............................................. 39 Goatacre Village Hall.............................. 37 Heddstock.............................................. 18 Samba Drumming.................................. 24 Water Babies.......................................... 55

ToMw agazinn e Cr er Your Local Covering CALNE,

k

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES/REPAIRS Calne Appliances.................................... 27 Senior Citizen Services........................... 13 Steves Appliances.................................. 76

LOCKS & ALARMS Alan Key Locks ....................................... 75

TV/SATELLITE Aerial Services ...................................... 47

CHIPPENHAM and

villages

FREE

APRIL 2017

Wiltshire Air Ambulanc Airbase Appeeal

Photo: chriswa tkinsmedia.co.u

DISCO Disco Mania .......................................... 53

HAIR/BEAUTY/NAILS Amanda Philips...................................... 53 HM Hairdressing....................................... 5 Hair By Solo............................................ 55 High Street Barbers................................ 53 LA Barber............................................... 53 Pamplemouse........................................ 54

LEGAL SERVICES / WILL WRITING Goodwills............................................... 15

TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS Barnes Coaches...................................... 23 Marc Fitchett Travel Counsellors............. 42 Pebbles Travel........................................ 44

agazine.com

DANCE Dancing Academy.................................. 28

GUTTERING Guttering Problems................................ 73

KITCHENS/BATHROOMS Accent Kitchens...................................... 33 Active Kitchens & Bathrooms................. 31 Dream Doors ........................................... 2 Kitchen Makeover ................................. 47 Philip Viles............................................. 35 Premier Kitchen Doors............................ 29 Total Bedrooms & Kitchens..................... 19

TILING AFK Tiling............................................... 75

www.towncrierm

DAMP Eaton Electrical...................................... 72

GIFTS Bazaar Gifts & Cards .............................. 27

HYPNOTHERAPY Hypnotherapy of Calne........................... 51

TAXI Calne's Half Price Taxi............................. 59

AM

OIL &

AUTOC ARE

OPTION

FILTER

ONE

Oil & Filter Change Coolant Inspect ion Electrical Inspect ion Exhaust System Check

CHANG

Body Inspect ion Brake Fluid Test

AutoCa

re

01 24 9 81 67 06 MAU

PORTE MAR NDRELL ROAD, SH INDU STRIAL ESTA CALNE, WILTSHIR TE, E SN11 9PU

LOCAL NEWS

See page 5 for

Tyre Inspect ion Steering & Suspension Check

E + MO

AM

50% OFF*

New Term and Taster Session Bookings now open See page 55

details

SERVI CE

usiv e

INCLUSIVE

FREE CAR

AVAILABLE MOT RE-TES Within 10 working days TS

Your Loca l Inde pend

l FOOD l HEAL TH & BEAUTY

YOUR CAR FROM JUST

ALL MAKE S & MODE LS

APRIL

OPTIO N TWO As Option One Remove WheelsPLUS: & Check Front Replace Air Brakes Filter. Emission s Test

£145.00

COURTESY

see page 61

£89.00 SERVICE

T £99 incl

Grass cutting from £12

OPTIO NS

– JUN E 20 17 £179 GAR_697 .00

OPTIO N THRE E As Option One Change Spark & Two PLUS: Plugs, Rear Check. Gearbox Brake Fluid Check

653.pdf 13:49:24 INCLUSIVE January

DIAGNOSTICS

AVAILABL E ON MOS T MAKES OF VEHICLE

ent Gara ge For Caln e

Some makes and models may be excluded

, please call for details

l MOTORING The Town Crier l HOMMagazin e | APRIL 2017 E & GARD 1 EN l PETS

15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah

Looking to fill gaps in your retirement income?

Release capital tied up in your home and start making more of your retirement We’d all like to make the most of our retirement. However, this isn’t always easy when the cost of living continues to rise. Fortunately, there is a way that you can cover your needs and enjoy the retirement you are looking for. If you’re 55+ and own your own home, you can release some of the money tied up in the property, tax free, without having to move.

Whether you’d like to: • Treat yourself to something special • Repay debts or a current mortgage • Help children or grandchildren • Make improvements to your home, or anything else We can provide friendly, expert advice that could help you unlock the value in your home, without the need to move.

By choosing Providus Financial, you’ll be assured a friendly, knowledgeable and reliable service.

Contact Steve Eddolls for a confidential chat and no obligation appointment.

Call now on: M: 07803 708 855 T: 0333 456 0468 Email: hello@providusfinancial.co.uk

Towpath Mews, 4 The Causeway Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 3BT www.providusfinancial.co.uk

Equity release may involve a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. Equity release may not be right for everyone. It may affect your entitlement to state benefits and will reduce the value of your estate. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home.

Providus Financial Limited is registered in England and Wales, Registered Number 09594033. Registered Office 20 The Avenue, London E4 9LD and is authorised and regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) number 705852.

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017

79

80

The Town Crier Magazine | APRIL 2017