North Wiltshire Town Crier Magazine December 2017

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CH ME RI RR ST Y MA S!

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

FREE

Calne, Chippenham, Corsham, Cricklade, Malmesbury, Royal Wootton Bassett and Villages

DECEMBER 2017

Special Feature

Christmas Gifts 20% Off

See page 11 for details

LOTS OF LOCAL EVENTS See Inside

CELEBRATE Christmas and New Year WHAT’S ON l FOOD l HEALTH & BEAUTY l MOTORING l HOME & GARDEN l PETS The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017 1

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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CHRISTMAS 2017

50

Editor’s Letter

82

rly here!

I can’t believe that Christmas is nea at the As 2017 comes to an end, the Team ortunity opp this take to like ld wou r Town Crie ers read to thank all of you, our advertisers, port sup ed tinu and contributors for your con rested in inte ys alwa are throughout the year. We readers, our from rest inte l receiving items of loca ts. even On t’s Wha r you in send and please also r Thank you also to everyone for all you Air shire Wilt for ng raisi fund our for generosity our of s new Ambulance in 2017 - look out for magazine. fundraising for 2018 in the January ry Finally, can we wish you all a Very Mer us pero Pros and Christmas and A Happy New Year - see you in 2018.

Annie

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

5b Wood Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0BZ Tel: 01249 811068 www. towncriermagazine.com Deadline for submissions for the January 2018 issue: 5th December 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.

Front Cover photo: istock

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Photo of Ed Byrne: Roslyn Gaunt

Welcome to the Christmas issue of the Town Crier!

34 40 52

68 MAGAZINE SECTIONS Community News & What’s On 6-31 & 32-49 Food & Drink

50-57

Health & Beauty

58-63

Pets

67-70

Motoring

73-75

Gardening

76-81

Building & Home Improvement

88-97

Index of Advertisers

98

78

60

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Contents

Local Focus

Local News and Events

19 Christmas Shopping Special Gift Guide

34 Ed Byrne

Spoiler Alert!

38 Competitions

Win theatre tickets Win a signed book

50 Food & Drink Pecan Pie Pear Tart Tatin Mulled Wine

60 Beauty Tips

... ’tis the Season

70 Running & Fitness Become a better runner

68 Pets

Choosing a Dog Groomer

74 Motoring

Renault Koleos

76 Gardening

Make a Christmas Wreath Jobs for December

82 Jo Deacon

Dragon’s Christmas Gift

84 Rev Sam King It’s a Baby!

86 A Good Read

Renewable Solar PV & Battery Storage, Solar Hot Water, Air/Ground/Water Source Heat Pumps & Biomass Boilers Wilts Electrical Contracting Ltd, 10 Harris Road, Porte Marsh Ind Est, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9PT

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Miss Peregrine’s Home The Runaway Jury

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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ON W NE HAT A R ’S YO U

d L cal Focus DECEMBER 2017

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

Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Grand Christmas Draw “I’m proud to support Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Grand Christmas Draw 2017. This is a vital source of fundraising income for the charity. Every ticket sold will help ensure that this lifesaving charity can be there for people when they need it most.”

A TOP prize of £3,000 is on offer in Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Grand Christmas Draw.

As well as the opportunity to win a prize, people who take part will be supporting Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The draw is a vital source of fundraising income for the charity, which has to raise £3.25 million a year to keep its lifesaving helicopter and crew flying.

Grand Christmas Draw tickets are available from the Wiltshire Air Ambulance charity shops in Maristow Street, Westbury, and in Maryport Street, Devizes, or by calling the charity team on 01380 739453 or emailing hello@wiltshireairambulance.co.uk. As well as a first prize of £3,000, there are runner-up prizes of £500, £100 and £50. The closing date is 3 January 2018 with the draw taking place on 8 January 2018. For those who return their tickets by 1 December 2017, there will be an Early Bird draw with the chance to win a £100 Marks & Spencer voucher. Players must be aged 16 or over.

Suzanna Hext, a Wiltshire Air Ambulance Ambassador and an international Para Dressage horse rider, is supporting the draw. Suzanna, of Cirencester, suffered serious injuries in a horse riding accident at Marston Meysey in July 2012 and was flown to hospital by Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Two years later she started riding again and now competes at international level in para and high level able-bodied dressage competitions and this summer she represented Great Britain at the Para European Championships in Sweden and won three gold medals.

She said: “I honestly never thought I’d get my life back to this extent after my accident. Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a vital service that we couldn’t do without, especially in rural locations. Due to the severity of my injuries, I needed the quickest response and Wiltshire Air Ambulance provided that. If they hadn’t got me to hospital quickly, the outcome could have been very different.

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Above: Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s mascot, Wilber, gets in the Christmas spirit with Critical Care Paramedic Louise Cox to launch the charity’s Grand Christmas Draw.

Below: Wiltshire Air Ambulance Ambassador Suzanna Hext with her three gold medals that she won at the Para European Championships. www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Calne celebrates the return of the pigs statue The unveiling ceremony of the two beloved Calne pigs took place at 4pm on Friday 10th November. The event was arranged to celebrate the return of the statue, that has been in place since 1979.

Around 300 people gathered in Phelps Parade hoping to catch a glimpse of the Town Mayor Cllr Tony Trotman and Rachel Viles from Calne Lions unveil the statue.

The repair work was carried out by Blackford Engineering Calne, with input from the sculptor of the pigs, Richard Cowdy. The reinstallation process took two days, and a small time capsule has been inserted inside the sculpture. Calne Lions Club have kindly paid for the pigs to be repaired and reinstalled.

It is great to see our little piggies back in place, and a wonderful thought that the children of Calne will continue to play on them for many years to come.

Tesco provides festive jobs boost for Calne Tesco is creating more than 200 jobs in Calne this Christmas with the opening of a new superstore.

The new store, which is due to open on November 30th, is one of only two large stores to be opened in England this year by the supermarket chain. In addition to an in-store bakery and fresh counters, the store will also feature a wide range of F&F clothing and a Tesco Mobile store. The new superstore will provide 200 permanent jobs, with a further 40 temporary roles being created during the Christmas period.

“There is a lot of hard work to get the store ready to open to the public, but all of us are really looking forward to welcoming people through the doors so they can see what a great range of produce we are able to offer,” said store manager Kevin Kiernan.

“The majority of staff that we have recruited for the new store are local to Calne and new to Tesco. I know that they are just as excited as I am to show their friends and neighbours in Calne what a great store we are opening here.”

The creation of more than 200 new jobs is just one of the ways in which the new superstore will bring benefits to the local community. As part of the Calne store development Tesco is providing a

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

new kiosk, where visitors to the store can find out more about what is on offer in Calne town centre.

It is designed to encourage shoppers who may have travelled further afield in the past to take advantage of the goods and services being offered in the town.

The new store will also take part in a number of successful initiatives that Tesco operates to support the communities in which it operates. Customers at the new store will be able to choose the local charities and community groups that benefit from its Bags of Help scheme to fund local projects.

Shoppers are able to use blue tokens to vote for their favourite community projects in-store, with local good causes being able to receive grants of between £1,000 and £4,000 depending on where they come in the voting.

The store will also be taking part in Tesco’s surplus food redistribution scheme, Community Food Connection. The scheme, delivered in partnership with the charity FareShare and social enterprise FoodCloud, ensures that surplus food reaches people in need within the local communities Tesco serves. More than 15 million meals have already been provided by the scheme and recipients include homeless shelters, after-school clubs, and foodbanks.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Malmesbury turns purple to mark World Pancreatic Cancer Day Post light-up reception for Pancreatic Cancer UK organisers held at The Old Bell Hotel.

Malmesbury Abbey lit up purple on Thursday 16th November to mark World Pancreatic Cancer Day and shine a light on this silent killer - only 5% of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer survive after five years with around 9,600 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year.

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and the act of lighting up a focal point in a village, town or city symbolises a way to remember loved ones who have sadly died of the disease, as well as celebrate the lives of those that have survived.

Other landmarks lit up in addition to Malmesbury Abbey included Glasgow Cathedral, the Fountains in Trafalgar Square, HMS Nelson in Portsmouth, Enniskillen Castle and many more. Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer is supported by the charities Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Action, Pancreatic Cancer Scotland, Planets and CORE. Members of Pancreatic Cancer UK were invited with other guests to drinks and canapes provided by The Old Bell Hotel after the light up with an opportunity to hear from the charity.

Ben Strange and Adam Burge

New members of staff at The IT Guy

Ben Strange, 20, has joined as an IT support engineer and Adam Burge as a desktop support technician. Both are local to Chippenham where the company is based.

Ben, a former student of Wiltshire College said: “The IT Guy is a fun place to work. We’re a young team and tech is our lives so we naturally keep up with all the latest tech too.”

Alongside Ben is teenager Adam, aged 17, who has recently left school and has begun his apprenticeship at Wiltshire College whilst working with The IT Guy. Adam said: “I’ve been really impressed with the fact the team at The IT Guy strives to be different ... a great environment for me to learn at the start of my career.”

The IT Guy provides unlimited computer support for small and medium sized businesses across the UK. The team specialises in businesses from five employees up to a workforce of 300, and pride themselves on providing amazing customer service at affordable prices.

Co-founder Mark, who’s 41, has worked in IT throughout his career running his first company in 2008. After seven years, and a chance meeting with marketing expert Jake, the two joined forces and launched The IT Guy in 2015.

Mark said: “Over the last two years, the business has been going incredibly well. We’re rapidly growing and have more than doubled our customer base in the space of a year. We’re really excited that Ben and Adam have joined us. Their talents will allow us to continue to expand. As we’ve got busier, they’re already bringing a lot of value to the company.”

The IT Guy prides itself on making IT simple and offers packages from as little as £9.99 per month per user.

Services available include IT support, hosted Exchange email, online cloud backup, mailbox security, antivirus support and hosted VOIP telephony. Find more information on The IT Guy visit iamtheitguy.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Meet the team

Helen Massimo Helen has many years of experience in hairdressing and is the salon owner.

Thank you to all our guests for your custom and loyalty as we celebrate our first anniversary in January.

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Mairead Garner With over 20 years experience in the industry and working in many different countries.

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20% off Aveda Box Sets Gift Vouchers available Charlie McCarthy Charlie is currently studying her advanced level three in hairdressing.

Poppy Kirkley Poppy has 4 years’ experience, two of which she has been studying for an NVQ 2.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

13

COMMUNITY NEWS

Good Energy awards family with a lifetime of renewable electricity Chippenham-based Good Energy has awarded a Cotswolds family with a lifetime of 100% renewable electricity. The competition, advertised on nearly two million Wyke Farms cheese packets all over the UK, was won by lucky winner, Becca, who headed to Wyke Farms in Somerset to collect her prize, worth £22,000.

MukGuard scoops Silver Award!

V12 Footwear, based in Chippenham, are very pleased to have been presented with a ‘Green Apple Award’ at the ‘Environmental Best Practice 2017’ presentation, held at The Houses of Parliament on the 6th of November. This is a huge achievement as a result of the work they have done in developing the MukGuard reusable overshoe, to reduce plastic waste in the construction and utilities industries.

“I am over the moon to have won the competition.

I never normally enter competitions, so I am really pleased to have won the grand prize!” said Becca.

“We’ve been a customer of both Good Energy and Wyke Farms for years and we are thrilled to be able to support two fantastic local companies and continue our renewable journey in this way.”

Becca and her family were also given a guided tour around Wyke Farms’ cheese dairy, which is powered 100% by its own home-grown electricity and gas which it also sells back to Good Energy. “We love the fact that not only are we self-sustainable; we are also able to help others be green too by supplying our excess renewable electricity back to Good Energy’s customers via the national grid” said Richard Clothier, Managing Director at Wyke Farms.

Ben Ross, Partnerships Manager at Good Energy commented: “We’re delighted to award Becca and her family with a lifetime of electricity, worth over £22,000. Our mission has always been to inspire people to make a personal contribution to reducing climate change – and going renewable can cut your carbon footprint in half.”

Becca’s lifetime of renewable electricity will prevent approximately 43 tonnes of CO2 being emitted into the environment. If you’re inspired to switch to 100% renewable electricity, find out more at www.goodenergy.co.uk/get-a-quote/

There is shifting attitude to plastic in the UK. Singleuse plastic is still being grossly over-relied on for plastic overshoes in numerous industries. Utility engineers typically get through about 10 pairs of these every day, going in and out of customers’ houses - equating to 15kg of wasted plastic overshoes every year per person.

Determined to find a greener solution, V12 developed MukGuard, an innovative reusable and washable overshoe. It’s been created as a safer and more sustainable alternative to plastic overshoes for professionals who regularly enter customers’ properties through the course of their work. Perfect for DIYers and gardeners as well, it fits perfectly over dirty boots and shoes to protect floors, prevent trip hazards and drive down waste.

Since its introduction to market in September 2016, MukGuard has prevented approximately 30 million plastic overshoes going into landfill. As its popularity grows, this figure will grow exponentially which is a fantastic achievement.MukGuard has prevented approximately 30 million plastic overshoes going into landfill.

Left to right: Good Energy’s Ben Ross; Becca Eccles; daughters Darcy and Scarlet; husband Scott; and Wyke Farm’s Richard Clothier; taken at Wyke Farms’ Sustainable Energy Centre. www.wykefarms.com 14

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Further to winning the award V12 have now become a Green World Ambassador, allowing them to represent their company and country in the Green World Awards 2018. In partnership with Green Earth Appeal and the UN Billion Trees project V12 will also be having 100 trees planted in their name over the next 12 months!

More at: V12footwear.com or MukGuard.com

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

15

COMMUNITY NEWS

New Airbase is taking shape as Fundraising Appeal continues!

WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance held a topping out ceremony on Thursday 12 October to mark the progress of the building work on its new airbase.

The project is over half way through and the roof of the airbase is on, most of the exterior walls are complete and the floors are down.

Representatives of Wiltshire Air Ambulance, its primary contractor Rigg Construction (Southern) Limited, of Bowerhill, Melksham, and its architects and project managers, CMS based in Corsham, were at the site for the topping out ceremony.

David Philpott, Chief Executive of Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “It is so exciting for everyone at Wiltshire Air Ambulance to see the progress of the work on the new airbase. It was just under six months ago that we were standing here in an empty field for our groundbreaking ceremony and now the airbase is taking shape, literally, before our eyes.

“I’d like to thank our primary contractor, Rigg Construction (Southern) Limited, and our architects and project managers, CMS, for their work in creating and building an airbase that will benefit the entire county for many years to come.

“The custom-built airbase will bring together the helicopter, aircrew and charity team onto one site for the first time and secure the future of the charity.”

The central location of the new airbase means that the helicopter will be able to reach all parts of Wiltshire within 11 minutes, just as it does now from the current base in Devizes.

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At the topping out ceremony at Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s new airbase at Outmarsh Farm, Semington, are (l-r) Jon Price and Nigel Evans of Rigg Construction (Southern) Limited, Kevin Reed, Anna Cole, David Philpott, Cheryl Johnson and Barbara Gray of Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Charlotte Tyler, Joel Smith, Ryan Perry and Duncan Walker of CMS Architects.

The two-storey new airbase is approximately 1,500 square metres.

Its facilities include a Flight and Operations Centre for its aircrew, a hangar for the helicopter and medical equipment, offices for the Charity Team, training suite and a visitors’ viewpoint.

The charity has received just over £2.7 million from a benefactor, who wishes to remain anonymous, and £1 million from the LIBOR fund for the new airbase. Together with other funding and pledges, the charity has raised 90% of its overall £5.1 million project costs.

The charity is asking people to help raise the remaining funds now that it is on its final push to complete the building and equipping of the new airbase, before it becomes operational by next summer.

Anna Cole, a Trustee of Wiltshire

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Air Ambulance, said: “We’ve had a tremendous response from the public to our Airbase Appeal so far and as we enter the next phase of construction work we still need to raise the remaining funds to make our new airbase a reality. Wiltshire Air Ambulance has been saving lives for over 27 years and our new airbase will enable us to save many more lives in the future.

“Please get in touch if you, your friends, neighbours, workmates or school would like to donate and get involved and help build a better future for your air ambulance.”

To donate to the Airbase Appeal and find out how to get involved go to www.wiltshireairbaseappeal.co.uk, text BASE17 and the amount you would like to donate to 70070, email hello@wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or call the charity team on 01380 739453. www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk

curtains | blinds | shutters | awnings Roller Blinds | Vertical Blinds | Venetian Blinds | Pleated Blinds | Awnings Curtains | Roman Blinds | Cushions | Accessories Who are we? Goldmans is an established family run business based in the heart of Wiltshire serving both domestic and commercial customers across the region.

What do we do? Goldmans supply made to measure Blinds, Awnings, Curtains – all with an extensive choice of designs.

Did you know? Shutters not only look great but are very good for security.

Goldmans provide a professional fitting service for their plantation shutters.

How do we do this? Goldmans provide a friendly personalised service, working closely with customers to achieve best results.

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www.calnecarpetsandcurtains.co.uk email: goldmansinteriors@gmail.com The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d

Dancing to keep fit, learn a new skill and have fun in 2018

T

Latest news from Dancing Academy

HE Dancing Academy is Wiltshire’s leading dance school for excellence in dance and performance arts training.

Based in three studios at Foundry Lane, Chippenham, hundreds of dancers of all ages pass through its doors every week. They take part in classes including classical ballet, tap, modern, street and jazz.

Groups of people can also book short courses to prepare a dance spectacular for a special event such as a wedding or a party.

Samantha Reed, founder, is keen to support families who want their children to develop a love of music and movement from an early age. From the new year, the school will increase its pre-primary ballet classes for ages three to five to run between 3.30pm and 4.45pm Monday to Friday. Anyone interested can book a free trial online or by calling the school directly (see contact details right).

Their work is often showcased in public with the Dancing Academy students taking part in community events including the Chippenham Carnival, the Christmas Light Switch On and in November, some took part in a BBC Children In Need National Tapathon 2017.

More than 20 students joined the national tapathon to try to break a world record of 10,000 dancers all tapping to the same piece of music simultaneously across many venues nationwide. choice for parents in terms of classes during 2018.”

Students at The Dancing Academy can explore dance to whatever level of expertise they choose. Some students have gone on to train as professional dancers, others regularly attend just for the joy of dance and being part of a team, even if they are not considering a career in the profession.

She said: “At this early stage in a child’s development we want our youngest students to explore the joy of moving to music in a safe and secure environment with qualified teachers. This isn’t about precision and accuracy for these youngsters, it’s about discovering dance for enjoyment and to really capture a child’s imagination around the art form of dance in a fun and engaging way.

“We’ve found our classes for this have become very popular and that’s why we’re offering more

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Samantha and her fellow teachers embrace dancers of all abilities.

That was her vision when she started Dancing Academy with three students in 2008. Samantha’s ethos is anyone can enjoy dance and aim for achievable goals.

Her most talented students have danced with the English National Ballet, and others have gone on to The Hammond School Of Dance, Tring Park School for Performing Arts and other notable dance training colleges.

To find out more or book a free trial email: info@dancingacademy.co.uk or call 07427 83299 (10am to 5.30pm weekdays) www.dancingacademy.co.uk Above: Samantha Reed, Left: Four of the dancers who took part in the Children In Need Tapathon 2017 on Sunday November 19. From left to right – Katie Prowting, Lizzie Fiddament, Jade Evans and Elisabeth Wighton.

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CHARLTON PARK ESTATE FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES Select your own tree; can be cut for you or dig your own – don’t forget to bring your own spade.

Ready cut trees available in various heights – order in advance for convenience and just come and collect!

Also available holly, mistletoe and Christmas wreaths.

Don’t forget we sell dry, seasoned logs.

COLLECTION DAILY FROM SATURDAY 25TH NOVEMBER; 10AM-4PM Estate Office, Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9RU estateoffice@charltonparkestate.com www.charltonparkestate.com Tel: 01666 822146

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS

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The Silver Necklace holds a freshwater pearl in a calla lily design. £65 Coppins of Corsham 01249 715404 www.coppinsofcorsham.co.uk

Gift Vouchers Prices start from just £5 - perfect for a 'Secret Santa' gift !

You even buy 'Full Game' vouchers (£50, £60, £80) Order gift vouchers from: www.11thhourescaperooms.co.uk

Festive Gift Ideas Last minute Christmas stocking fillers from North Wiltshire

Grey Plush Reindeer Toy was £12.99 Now £10.40 Knees, Malmesbury www.knees.co.uk

20% Off Aveda Gift Sets HM Hairdressing, Calne 01249 819858 www.hmhairdressing.co.uk

Train set A train set is not just for Christmas but can be the start of a long term hobby for the young and young at heart!

Modelmaniacs has trainsets from just £45.00 upto £200+ with a whole range of accessories that make ideal stocking fillers too.

RC Truck Want to hit the trails with a ready-to-run RC truck?

Modelmaniacs has a wide range starting from just £49.99. If you fancy building your own, we also have lots of Tamiya RC kits too!

Jewellery from Danish brand Sence - prices range from £16 to £65 Spirit Fashion, Devizes 01380 729933 www.spiritfashion.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS

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More Festive Treats!

Dauntless Gin is premium strength and quality, made from english wheat and containing 14 botanicals with blue and white poppies added for a unique floral note and also for remembrance. 20% of profits go to charity. Locally stocked in the Three Trees Farm Shop, Chiseldon, The New Wine Shop, Calne, Arkells Vinters, Kingsdown Brewery, Swindon.

Royal Wootton Bassett Gin Company Ltd dauntless@royalgin.co.uk £34.99 + £5 P&P (Total £39.99)

Last minute Christmas stocking filler ideas from North Wiltshire

Kilner Drinks Barrel Was £15 now £12 Yoga Bag Was £9.99 Now £8 Knees, Malmesbury www.knees.co.uk

Hand painted upcycled bottles, with decoupage.

With LED lights £19.50, Without lights £14.50.

Bag for life is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles from Weaver Green based in Devon.

The bag is £45 and comes in many colourways. There are other items from Weaver Green such as rugs and throws starting from £40 Sassy Chic 9 Sidmouth Street, Devizes 01380 698200

Gift Voucher Foodalicious are excited to bring Luxury Hampers to Calne this Christmas. Using the finest products, we can tailor your hamper to make a beautiful gift this festive season. Come in to see us, and view our various price options, and gift ideas, and give a gift that will be truly loved this year! !

Foodalicious, Calne Tel: 01249 817777 www.foodalicious.co.uk 22

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Farm Cookery School Gift Vouchers Personalised Gift Vouchers for Demos, Classes, Cook & Dine experiences or monetary value for a bespoke event Farm Cookery School, Rowde 01380 859 478 Or email enquiries@ thefarmcookeryschool thefarmcookeryschool.co.uk

Bazaar Gifts & Cards 5 The Strand, Calne, SN11 0RB (By the Library)

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 Frenchic chalk paint - painted furniture Glass Vases | Paperweights & Ornaments Candles, Interiors and Gifts Purses & Wallets | Soft Toys & Teddy Bears Home decor, interiors and gifts Gifts for Baby & Wedding GiftMonthly vouchers available Frenchic chalk paint - painted furniture Painting Workshops Ladies & Mens Toiletries | Mugs

Official Frenchic Stockist Painting Workshops Candles, Interiors and Gifts

Telephone: 01249 813380

Hand painted furniture

Gift9 vouchers available Sidmouth Street, Devizes, SN10 9 Sidmouth Street, Devizes, SN10 1LD1LD 01380 698200 | sassychichomestyle@gmail.com 01380 698200Workshops • sassychichomestyle@gmail.com Painting

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Fishing (Course, Sea & Game) Country Sports Air Rifle Accessories Archery Darts Bush Craft & Survival Gear Thank you for your SHOP continued support LOCAL Gift Vouchers Available 123A London Road, Calne, Wilts

Tel: 01249 812003

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Great ideas for Christmas Gifts

Your local supplier of: n Model Railways n Radio Controlled Planes and Boats n Radio Controlled Cars and Trucks

Tel: 01249 817731

Unit 9, Harris Road, Calne, SN11 9PT www.modelmaniacs.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

23

COMMUNITY NEWS

Apprentice makes the grade and sets her sights higher Another apprentice has made the grade at Wiltshire’s leading heating company John Williams Heating Services.

Georgina Williams, aged 22, who lives in Chippenham, now works as the office manager 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 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. For more details visit: jwheating.co.uk

Georgina Williams who has completed her apprenticeship in business administration.

24

Last month the Bank of England raised Base Rate by 0.25%. Further rate rises cannot be ruled out, possibly a further two over the next couple of years.

Those of us with maturing Fixed Rate mortgage deals or on a lenders Standard Variable Rate need to act quickly to secure fixed mortgage payments. At Aspirations our team may be able to help, visit our website, complete the Quick Quote and we will find a solution.

Independent Financial Advice firm Aspirations Financial Advice Ltd are helping to safeguard the future of the fastest animals on the planet which are fighting for their survival. They are sponsoring the cheetah enclosure at Wild Place Project in Bristol. http:// www.wildplace.org.uk/news/ financial-advice-firm-helpsave-cheetah Aspirations have been helping to raise awareness of the cheetah plight by highlighting their sponsorship in adverts, posters, campaigns and through social media. www.aspirationsifa.com Follow us on Twitter, Facebook & LinkedIn Wiltshire area Mortgage/Protection adviser Rocky Riccalton

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BIGGEST LIGHTING SELECTION IN CHIPPENHAM The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

25

ADVERTISING FEATURE

GRANTS Electrical Services Ltd

Grants Electrical L-R Aaron Monk, Martin Grant and Howard Thurston

GRANTS ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

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 • Supplies 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 Email: info@grantselectrical.com Website: www.grantselectricalservicesltd.co.uk

26

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Martin Grant started Grants Electrical Services Ltd in March 2015 when he first moved to Calne after leaving the Army where he was an Avionics Technician.

Grants is made up of three Electricians - Martin, Howard and Michael - and one apprentice Aaron with Lucie carrying out the clerical work.

Grants were recently named Which?

Trader of the month for November 2017 due to their excellent reviews, social-media presence, charity work and consistent engagement with the Which?

Trusted Traders scheme. Martin is proud of the accreditation. ‘Our customers have told us that the association with Which? gives them peace of mind,’ he said. ‘It shows we’re operating at a really high standard. We try to maintain that in everything we do – using only the best materials and only working with good quality suppliers and other contractors.’

Martin recently volunteered for the BBC programme DIY SOS. Taking place in Swansea it was one of the biggest builds the programme has ever done - and a Children in Need special.

Grants cover all domestic and commercial electrical installations. From simply changing a broken switch or socket plate to a full rewire, they cover it all. With Grants, you will find a friendly and professional service. They pride themselves on being smart, punctual (with a two hour slot for arrival), polite and professional with EVERY customer given the opportunity to leave feedback on Checkatrade.com and Which? Trusted Traders. Grants have over 250+ reviews online with an average of 9.9 and 4.9 respectively.

CHURCH STREET, CALNE

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Email: andyrids@aol.com www.compasssecuritysystems.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

27

COMMUNITY NEWS

National medals at debut of Wiltshire Gymnasts A talented pair of Wiltshire gymnasts have both won national medals in their debut at a recent championship.

Francesca Di Pisa, aged nine, and Teigan Higgs, aged 13, are members of Moonraker Gymnastics Club in Chippenham.

happy to win and now I’m hoping to enter the competition again next year.” Mum Laura said: “Her gold medal win hasn’t really sunk in yet, but we’re so very proud of what she’s accomplished. “She’s very determined and works very hard, but she has so much fun at the same time.”

They recently competed in the womens junior sections of the Disability Artistic British Championships 2017, organised

by British Gymnastics, at the Lilleshall National Sports Centre in Telford.

At their first-ever appearances at the competition, Francesca was awarded a gold medal and Teigan was awarded five silver medals.

In addition, their fellow club member Millie Strange, aged 16, came sixth after competing in the adult section for the first time.

Their achievements are all the more remarkable because Francesca was born with a right-hand impairment, Teigan has a heart condition which required open-heart surgery when she was a toddler, and Millie was born with her left foot facing the wrong way.

Francesca started gymnastics at the age of five years old. She received a gold medal in her class of the all-around section which included routines on the bar, beam, vault and floor. Francesca said: “This was my first national competition so I was really nervous, but my parents persuaded me to keep going. I was surprised but very 28

Teigan started gymnastics at the age of seven years old. Aside from the heart problem she also had a growth condition which resulted in one leg being longer than the other and which required an operation last year. She received silver medals in the all-around, bar, beam, floor and vault sections of her class.

Teigan said: “It was nerve-wracking to start with, especially after I fell off the apparatus during the warm-up, but I forgot about all of my worries when the competition began. “I was very surprised when I realised that I’d won so many medals, but it makes all of the hard work worth it.”

Mum Annie said: “When she was a toddler when we thought we might lose her due to her heart condition,

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

so we’re very proud that she’s come so far since. “We’re absolutely amazed by her determination and perseverance.”

Millie only took up the sport four years ago after recovering from multiple operations. She was born with her left foot facing the wrong way and one leg was six inches shorter than the other, and had to undergo more than 20 corrective surgeries. Millie received a silver medal in the womens junior all-around section last year but faced greater competition when she moved into the adult section for the first time this year. However, she still achieved personal bests across the bar, beam, floor and vaults.

Moonraker Gymnastics Club meets at the The Olympiad Leisure Centre in Chippenham. Head coach Steve West said: “We’re delighted that Francesca and Teigan both came away with medals from their very first appearance at this national championship, and so impressed

by Millie who did incredibly well to come sixth after moving up into the adult category. “We’re all immensely proud of their achievements.”

Call Chippenham Moonraker Gymnastics on 07827 459242 or visit www. chippenhamgymnastics.co.uk Picture: Moonraker Gymnastics Club members (from left) Francesca Di Pisa, Millie Strange and Teigan Higgs

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 | DECEMBER 2017

29

COMMUNITY NEWS

Good Energy asks the UK’s children to share a message from the future How is global warming going to change your world over the next 30 years?

That’s the question that Chippenham-based renewable energy provider Good Energy is asking the UK’s school children to answer in an exciting nationwide competition, titled ‘A Message From the Future’.

The challenge is simple. 10 – 16 year olds and their teachers are being asked to imagine they’ve been transported 30 years in the future. The world around them isn’t as they left it, due to climate change.

Working together as a class, their task is to explain to their 2017 selves what impact climate change has had on their local area, in whatever format they like.

Katie wins the AMS Christmas card competition!

“Climate change is happening, and fast.” said Juliet Davenport, CEO of Good Energy. “We want to encourage children – our future holders – to think about how climate change may affect their local area within their own lifetimes and what they might do about it. This is a great opportunity for children and teachers to work together on something which could make a real difference.”

Katie Phillips, year 6 of Lawn Primary School has won the competition to design a Christmas card for AMS Accountancy Ltd. She said ‘I thought I would come last!’ and she designed a picture with the sleigh because it is very important to Santa. Katie won a £25 Amazon voucher and AMS donated £250 to the school. Barbara French, Head of Marketing at AMS said ‘we are very grateful to the school for taking part every year, our clients love receiving these unique cards.’

And the prize for the winning class? A school trip to The Eden Project, including coach, a guided tour, lunch, a goody bag and an interactive renewable energy workshop from Juliet herself.

CreativityChoose is very from much encouraged. The entry can be eight magical designs! in the form of a short video, a story, a photograph or artwork. As long as it is uploaded to Good Energy’s website before the deadline: midnight on Friday the 22nd December. with a Letter Santa Once applications have from closed, it’s over to the public

Get the magic started today

The magic of Christmas begins with a Letter from Santa

£5

to vote for their winner which will be announced in the New Year. Further details on the competition, including full terms and conditions, can be found at: www.goodenergy.co.uk/a-message-from-the-future/

suggested donation

£5

suggested donation

t

Fill Christmas with magic and smiles

zzzzzzz Zzzz

See the full range of magical designs online

ELF-OM ATIC 3000 ATTENTIO DON’T N! FORGET TO CHECK LIST THE TWICE!

Dear <NAME>, Here in the North Pole, we’re taking a break from making all your toys to do a bit of baking in the kitchen! There are mince pies, biscuits and even gigantic cakes.

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Dear As you <NAME You might gently > drift He’s just hear off to out with Santa, the world To all the good his elves, but don’t of sleep It’s deliver make girls your a and very all the ing the toyspeep first to Christm good You areshare in boys. as more all of the and we’re You create precio Christm so glad as you’re more us than joy than a brightgood cheer here This any gift diamon With Christmas could d ring presen will bring.

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Have you ever baked with <FRIEND/FAMILY MEMBER>?

Now you’re <AGE>, it’s the perfect time to cook up some tasty treats. You deserve it for <ACHIEVEMENT>! I know how good you are at <activity>. You could be really good at baking too!

We love using colourful candy canes as cake decoration.

We had 8 ready for our next cake, but we’ve lost them all. The elves are looking everywhere! Can you help us find them?

Sugar

I think our gingerbread men are done. I can tell from all the yummy smells making my belly rumble HO HO HO! Once we’re all full up, it’s time to get the sleigh ready for Christmas Eve. I can’t wait to visit you this year!

Merry Christmas!

P.S. <Perso 100

nalised charac with up to ters>

P.S. <Personalised with up to 100 characters> Atebem denati, qui con tat, vil hicaecto horum perum.

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©2017 National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717.

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Visit nspcc.org.uk/Santa

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of Lindt Teddy 200g stores up to the employees.

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1: Wrapping

2: Ribbons

3: Bows

Visit nspcc.org.uk/Santa

HRISTMAS CARD DELIVERIES 1ST CALNE SCOUTS Ask AMS

CHRISTMAS CARD DELIVERIES 1ST CALNE SCOUTS

Advice for small businesses

Tax Relief on Pensions

Would you like 1 Calne Scouts to hand deliver your CHRISTMAS DELIVERIES Christmas cards this CARD year in Calne from 1 December Would you like 1st1ST Calne Scouts to hand deliver your Explained.

CALNE SCOUTS st

35pinper Card Christmas cards thisOnly year Calne 1 December Would you like 1st Calne Scoutsfrom to hand deliver your this year Calne Then please leaveChristmas your card fullycards addressed with your in payment at from 1st December

Only 35p percard Card Only 35p per G & S Jewellers 2 Phellps Parade, Calne

or Then please leave your card fully addressed Visitor and Information withCommunity your payment at: Centre Bank House, The Strand, CalneCalne or G & S Jewellers, 2 Phellps Parade, Visitor and Community Information Centre Bankday House, The Strand, Calne Last posting for Christmas cards is 18 December

Are you missing out on Higher Rate Tax relief on your Pensions Contributions?

ease leave your card fully addressed with your payment at earning over £45,000 (the Higher Employees Gfor & S Scoutsday will deliver yourJewellers cards on or is before 22 DecemberThe LastThe posting Christmas cards 18 December.

Scouts will your cards on or before 23 December.

2deliver Phellps Parade, Calne Thank you for your support

or MERRY CHRISTMAS Visitor and Community Information Centre Bank House, The Strand, Calne

Rate Tax threshold), often think they will automatically obtain tax relief on their personal contributions into their pension scheme. But, to get higher rate tax relief (an extra 20%) you need to contact HMRC/ complete a Self-Assessment Tax Return to claim the relief - otherwise you will be paying more tax than you should be.

Do you actually know how much

Last posting day for Christmas cards is 18 December you contribute into pensions?

Scouts will deliver your cards on or before 22 December

Thank you for your support

MERRY CHRISTMAS

If you are in a large organisation you may have a pension scheme. Do you, your employer or both of you make the contributions? You should check this out and contact, if necessary, HMRC to avoid missing out on your tax relief.

We have over 60 great videos on YouTube Search for ‘Ask AMS Accountancy’

01793 818400 @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

31

WHAT’S ON

Local creativity celebrated in Chippenham Museum’s latest exhibition CREATIVE WILTSHIRE, Chippenham Museum’s first exhibition in its newly opened gallery space, features the work of many influential artists who moved to North Wiltshire during the 20th century. Open until 17 March 2018 and free to visit, the exhibition features works by well-known artists such as Howard Hodgkin and Robin Tanner displayed alongside examples of pottery and silver produced in the local area.

The majority of works on display have been acquired as a result of the Creative Wiltshire project, which is collecting and celebrating the work of the county’s creative people. The project is run by the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, in partnership with Swindon Museum and Art Gallery and other participating museums, archives and local studies libraries to widen collections and ensure that creativity is better represented.

Nearly all artists featured in the exhibition relocated to North Wiltshire during the 20th century for work, study or a simpler life. For them the area provided new inspiration for their creativity, producing artwork directly responding to the local landscape.

A highlight of the Creative Wiltshire exhibition is newly acquired painting Studio Interior with Nude

by William Brooker (below). Chippenham Museum purchased the painting with the support of Art Fund and Arts Council England/Victoria and Albert Museum Purchase Grant Fund. Further funding was

also given by the Heritage Lottery Fund Creative Wiltshire Project.

Brooker painted the work in 1953 whilst teaching at Bath Academy of Art at Corsham Court. The school attracted some of the most important names in post-war British Art to teach and study at Corsham.

The painting is believed to show the interior of the painting studio where many of them would have worked.

Creative Wiltshire will be the first exhibition in Chippenham Museum’s new temporary exhibition space and marks the launch of an exciting new exhibition programme accompanied by a series of associated talks, activities and events.

Supported using £48,000 of public funding by Arts Council England, the exhibition space will allow the museum to develop bigger and better exhibitions, borrow amazing objects from National Museums such as the British Museum and the V&A and tell more of the fascinating stories that make Chippenham and surrounding villages so special.

Studio Interior with Nude, William Brooker, 1953 © Artist’s Estate Purchased with the support of the Art Fund, Arts Council England/ Victoria & Albert Museum Purchase Grant Fund & HLF Creative Wiltshire Project

Chippenham Museum is run by Chippenham Town Council and tells the story of the people and history of Chippenham and the surrounding villages from prehistoric times up until the present day. The museum, located in the Market Place, is free to explore and open Monday to Saturday 10am - 4pm.

The museum’s Creative Wiltshire exhibition is open from 20 November 2017 to 17 March 2018.

32

Christmas with

n e p m a p i h h n C e p p i Ch

Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm

Christmas Pop-up Shop & Crafts at the Yelde Hall

Museum & Shop Late Night Opening until 7pm

Fridays & Saturdays 11am - 3pm 1 - 16 December - Free Entry

Thursdays: 30 November, 7, 14 & 21 December - Free Entry

POP-UP SHOP: find a handmade gift for someone special with a range of cards, decorations and more crafted by Chippenham Museum's volunteers.

All proceeds will support the Friends of Chippenham Museum.

Looking for cards and gifts with a local twist? Find the perfect item amongst the museum shop’s crafts, toys and selection of over 30 local books.

Museum

FAMILY CRAFTS: get creative with a different free festive activity each week.

Market Place, Chippenham, SN15 3HF

01249 705020

(closed 23 - 26 December & 1 January) Free Entry

Enjoy new exhibition Creative Wiltshire whilst browsing the museum’s shop and displays until 7pm at these festive Thursday evening openings.

www.chippenham.gov.uk

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

33

WHAT’S ON

Ed Byrne - Spoiler Alert D BYRNE has been an acclaimed stand-up (with audiences and critics alike) for 20 years now. His success with shows such as the Roaring Forties, Different Class and the 1998 Perrier-nominated A Night At The Opera led to him appearing on the box in the diverse likes of Mock The Week, Father Ted, The One Show and All Star Mr & Mrs, while his love of hillwalking resulted in him writing a regular column for The Great Outdoors magazine.

In fact, his love of natural history has crossed into television with appearances on The One Show (abseiling in Snowdonia), Countryfile (climbing Sgùrr Dearg, the ‘inaccessible pinnacle’ on Skye) and presenting items on Volcano Live (BBC). He is also co-host of the highly acclaimed Dara & Ed’s Big Adventure and follow up Dara & Ed’s Road To Mandalay, both on BBC 2.

As he prepares to launch himself upon the nation with another touring show, the Irish comic is firmly of a belief that the current breed of parents spoil their kids rotten whether it’s to do with the ever-increasing size of garden trampolines, or his own kids’ demand for elderflower cordial. “My dad wasn’t a bad dad, he was just a 1970s dad. I could never see my children ever again from this moment on, and I’ve already done more parenting then he did in my entire life. But, of course, I made a conscious decision that I was going to be an awesome dad. My wife will come back with tales from her friends of how awful their husbands are and she’ll see me smiling and say ‘alright, stop congratulating yourself just because such and such can’t be left alone with their children for two minutes’.”

In his new touring show, the perfectly-titled Spoiler Alert, Ed compares and contrasts the old-school child-rearing days with 21st century methods and suggests that there are different ways to learn how to be a mum or dad. “I grew up in what I would call an aspirational household in that my parents bettered themselves over the course of my childhood. My mother was a radiographer and ended up a lecturer in radiography, while my dad was a sheet metal worker and went up to a supervisory role. I’d still say that you are expected to do a lot more parenting than our parents did and that’s a weird thing because 34

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

you tend to think that your parents are where you learned parenting from. But you don’t, really, it’s more that you look around you to see what’s going on with other parents.”

For the show Ed extends his analysis on the culture of entitlement to look at areas where we could perhaps do with being spoiled a little bit more.

“Where I think we’re not acting spoiled enough is in the political arena. We have a tendency to accept what’s happening and that’s where we should be acting more entitled: we are literally entitled to the government we want.

We’re spoiled in all these little ways, but not spoiled enough.”

Spoiler Alert also continues a theme that he’s tackled in previous shows, that of his gradual shift from being a working-class Dubliner to a fully paid-up rural-residing member of the middle classes. Where once he would do routines slating 4x4 owners, he is now the proud(ish) owner of such a vehicle. And in the poster for his tour, he brandishes other signifiers of social mobility: a bowtie and chainsaw. “It’s one of two I own: that one is the smaller of the two,” Ed remarks of his chainsaw rather than his neckwear. “I use it for firewood, both for my wood burning stove and also for the barbecue. The first time I used one I was fine, though I think it worried my parents that I had bought a chainsaw.”

Having premiered Spoiler Alert at the Edinburgh Fringe and used the month of August to hone the show, it is fully ready to go. “Being on stage is enjoyable and this part of the writing process is enjoyable. The empty page though is a scary thing.

On the first leg of the tour l’ll do about an hour and 15 minutes, plus I’ll have a support act. I keep a tour diary now of places where the curries are disappointing and where they are good and where audiences have been good before.”

Ed Byrne will be coming to Trowbridge and Swindon soon. Go and spoil yourself!

Thurs 25th January 2018 TROWBRIDGE, Civic Box Office: 01225 765072 Tues 6th March 2018 SWINDON, Wyvern Box Office: 01793 524481

Photo inset: Roslyn Gaunt

E

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Burnham Court, Malmesbury Beautifully finished one and two bedroom Abbeyfield Apartments with 24/7 staffing available Whether you’re thinking about housing for yourself or a family member, or you’ve just started exploring options, come along to Burnham Court to meet with us and find out more about our full range of services and just what makes Abbeyfield the trusted organisation that it is to this day.

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E. Wootten & Son Funeral Directors Established 1926

E Wootten & Son Funeral Directors

Funeral Directors Jennifer Dip FAA, Dip FD 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.

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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.

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

35

WHAT’S ON

Get Christmas off to a Flying Start!

“What an unexpectedly brilliant night out!” was what one of the audience said after last year’s Wessex Male Choir Christmas Concert – and this year’s concert promises to be even better! The Wessex is far from your average choir, having won numerous national and international awards and having entertained capacity crowds at both Wembley and Twickenham, they are one of the UK’s top amateur male choirs, and their enthusiasm and entertaining programmes have won them many admirers.

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Celebrate Christmas season with RWBO

Royal Wootton Bassett Orchestra are holding their popular Christmas Concert on Saturday December 16th. Starting at 7.30 pm in the Memorial Hall, Royal Wootton Bassett the concert will include well known Christmas music, classics and singalong carols. This year they will be joined by Cantanti Community Choir, who are also based in Royal Wootton Bassett.

There will be a licenced bar, tea, coffee, mince pies and a raffle. Tickets £7.50, under 16’s £2.50 are available on the door, from members of the orchestra or choir or by emailing contact@rwbo.org.uk Royal Wootton Bassett Orchestra, founded in 1982 is a friendly, fully inclusive orchestra welcoming members from all walks of life, and all ages. Under the baton of Alan Macrae, the orchestra plays a range of music centred around two major concerts a year and an open rehearsal. This year the orchestra performed a Last Night of the Proms concert in May and is now busy rehearsing for its lively Christmas Concert.

The Wessex is an auditioned choir, so you can expect the standard of singing to be good, but coupled with staging, choreography and atmospheric lighting, the Wessex Christmas concert offers a great evening’s entertainment, and this year, Swindon’s Pegasus Brass will be joining them to make a truly memorable start to Christmas. The Choir performs a wide range of genres – everything from traditional male choir numbers, to carols, opera choruses, music theatre anthems, rock and pop songs, and everything in between. There’s something on the programme for everyone and you’ll more than likely end up tapping your feet and humming along to some of the numbers, as well as joining in with a few of your favourite carols.

This year’s Christmas Concert is at Swindon’s Multi Entertainment Cultural Arena (MECA) on Regent’s Circus (SN1 1PR) on Thursday 21st December from 7.30pm to 9.45pm. There’s comfortable seating, a bar, good on-site facilities and plenty of car parking and restaurants nearby. Tickets are just £12.50 (under 16s are free but require a ticket) and they are available from HYPERLINK "http://www.ticketsource. co.uk/wessex-male-choir" www.ticketsource.co.uk/ wessex-male-choir, Swindon Library (Regent’s Circus), or by calling 01285 869955.

The Choir is also accepting new recruits from January and there is an open-evening on Tuesday 16th January 2018 at the rehearsal venue which is the Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads, Swindon, SN25 4YX from 7.30-9.30pm. Whether you’ve sung with other choirs and you are ready to take your singing further, or even if you have no singing experience, you’ll be assured of a warm welcome!

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

As well as concerts, Cantanti or a smaller group, can be booked for special events, especially weddings.

Email : lisawilliamsmusic@gmail.com or visit Cantanti Choir Facebook page.

R oyal W ootton B assett O rchestra with C antanti

C H RI S T M AS CONCERT Popular Christmas Music & Singalong Carols for all the family

Saturday 16th December 2017 7.30pm Memorial Hall Station Road Royal Wootton Bassett Tickets: Adults £7.50 & Under 16’s £2.50

Tickets available on the door or email contact@rwbo.org.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

37

S

D

WHAT’S ON

One of Strictly Come Dancing’s most popular professional couples return to the stage with a bang! Kristina Rihanoff is once again teaming up with Robin Windsor, in a show created by Kristina herself, called ‘DANCE TO THE MUSIC’.

The shows starts in the 1920s and takes the audience through over 20 different dance styles - in two action packed hours! Showcasing favourites like the Charleston and the Quickstep, before paying homage to the delightful Fred and Ginger, with the American Smooth. The story also leads us through a touching dedication to World War Two, with the music of Glen Miller and The Andrews Sisters, before a trip Stateside with a brilliant Rock-n-Roll section influenced by the one and only Elvis Presley!

The second half of the show is guaranteed to get your feet moving, visiting the funky Motown and Disco eras. If that wasn’t enough for you, the show includes some ingenious routines, with music by the legends Michael Jackson and Prince, including a spellbinding Rumba, performed by former ‘Strictly’ professional Oksana and her husband Jonathan Platero, to the epic ‘Purple Rain’.

The two phenomenal couples will be joined by four more professionals from the dance world, along with the vocal talents of X-Factor finalist Christopher Maloney and singer/songwriter Beth Sherburn. Expect other dance styles like the Viennese Waltz, the Salsa, the Paso Doble, the Argentine Tango, Tap, Breakdancing, HipHop, Lindy Hop, plus loads more!

The show is coming to The Wyvern, Swindon on 22 January at 7:30pm Tickets can be purchased direct from: www.swindontheatres.co.uk or 01793 524481 or online at www.dancetothemusictour.com. Most venues also have VIP Meet and Greet tickets available, so audience members can meet the cast after the show for photos and autographs!

Photos: Kristina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor.

Oksana and Jonathan Platero. Credit: Strictly Theatre Co. 38

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

WIN TICKETS TO DANCE TO THE MUSIC!

We have one pair of tickets to Dance to the Music at the Wyvern in Swindon on 22nd January 2018 which you could win by sending your name and a contact telephone number by email to: production@towncriermagazine.com by 31st December 2017. The Editor’s decision is final.

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39

WHAT’S ON

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WIN a copy of ‘Heel Lead’

An exciting new novel by local author, Dawn Henderson Twelve years ago, Dawn walked into her first Ballroom dance class and the love affair began.

Since then she has tango’d and quickstepped, waltzed and rumba’d through life. Although at the time of writing Heel Lead, she is without a permanent dance partner, she is fortunate enough to have good friends who lend her their men occasionally – she usually hands them back undamaged.

Heel Lead is Dawn’s fifth novel, and while the setting is a ballroom dance class, you don’t have to be a Strictly fan to enjoy the story and the world it creates.

It’s a passionate, emotional and sometimes poignant story that entertains while tugging at your heartstrings and offers a captivating take of the power of love, dance and the ties that bind us.

Dawn K. Henderson lives and writes in Wiltshire, surrounded by the rolling down and mysterious, ancient monuments that inspire many of her books. As D.K. Henderson, she is the author of The Skull Chronicles series of fantasy adventure novels.

To find out more visit www.dkhenderson.com, or her Facebook page DawnKHenderson.

WIN A COPY OF HEEL LEAD

Dawn has kindly donated one signed copy of Heel Lead which you could win by sending your name and a contact telephone number by email to: production@towncriermagazine.com by 31st December 2017. The Editor’s decision is final.

40

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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41

WHAT’S ON

Atwell Wilson Museum The traditional end to the Classic Car year is the annual show held at the NEC in Birmingham.

Competition to gain an entry to this, the premier show of the year, is always fierce and we consider it a privilege to be invited. We were very pleased, therefore, to receive an invitation, as it represents the pinnacle of our year on the road and affords the opportunity to sell many tickets for the raffle car. The theme of this year’s show was “Family Ties” and as the raffle car is an Escort, we decided to give two more Fords from the Museum, a Consul and Popular, both made in 1954, a weekend out. They proved to be worthy exhibits and contrasted well against the more exotic machinery, Rolls Royce, Maserati and Bugatti, in the No 1 Premier Hall. As you can see in the photo, we were kept somehat busy over the weekend, but with just short of £1700 taken in raffle sales, it was really worthwhile.

Restoration work continues at the Museum, the focus of attention being a 1967 Daimler Limousine, which was formerly used by the Mayor of Bristol. This very special car, one of the wedding fleet, will eventually have a new colour scheme, with the addition of maroon panels. I’ll keep you posted in future editions. And huge thanks go to our key volunteers undertaking the work, Chris Bird and Jon Goodchild.

!

It has now been confirmed that the Museum will open just at the weekends during December and January, which are traditionally our quietest times. Everyone involved with the Museum is a volunteer and without their support the Museum could not operate. If you would like to get involved, please feel free to contact me at jakehall16@ btinternet.com Alternatively, contact the Museum.

The Museum is currently open on Tuesdays to Sunday inclusive from 11am to 5pm, including Bank Holidays.

There is plenty of free parking available on site and for larger groups who might like it, refreshments can be arranged if requested. For further information, please contact the Museum on 01249 813119 or visit its website which is www.atwellwilson.org.uk You are assured of a very warm welcome. It just leaves me to wish all readers a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Alan Hall, Secretary

Calne SMaRTT are a small friendly running and triathlon club who are always happy to welcome new members. We meet twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays and we are a mixed ability club, with everyone welcome.

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www.woodbridgeparkgolfclub.co.uk 01666 510277 T&C’s apply The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

43

WHAT’S ON

What’s On at Chippenham Museum

Museum & Shop Late Night Opening

Thursday 30 November, 7, 14 & 21 December until7pm Chippenham Museum.

Special late night opening of the museum shop, plus opportunity to browse new exhibition Creative Chippenham.

Exhibition: Creative Chippenham

20 November 2017 – 17 March 2018, 10am – 4pm, free entry, Chippenham Museum.

A celebration of local creativity, Chippenham Museum’s latest exhibition is dedicated to the many artists and craftspeople that have lived and worked in the area.

Alongside works by well-known artists such as Howard Hodgkin and Robin Tanner will be displayed examples of pottery and silver produced in the local area.

Creative Chippenham is the first exhibition to be held in the museum’s newly refurbished temporary gallery space.

Many of the works have been acquired by the museum through the ‘Creative Wiltshire’ project and this will be the first time many have been on display. Also on display will be exciting loans from the collections of the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre. Look out for a series of talks and events running alongside the exhibition in the New Year.

Chippenham Museum Christmas Shop

25 November – 23 December 2017, 10am – 4pm Browse Chippenham Museum’s Christmas gift selection for adults and children alike including books celebrating Wiltshire’s history, locally made crafts and traditional toys.

Christmas Pop-up Shop & Crafts

Fridays & Saturdays 1 - 16 December 11am - 3pm Yelde Hall, Market Place, Chippenham Find a homemade gift for someone special with a range of cards, decorations and more handmade by Chippenham Museum's volunteers. All proceeds will support the Friends of Chippenham Museum. Also get creative with a different free festive family craft activity each week.

Saxon Twelfth Night Celebration

Saturday 6 January, 10.30am - 3pm Chippenham Museum On twelfth night 878AD King Alfred was driven out of Chippenham by the Vikings. Join us for our new annual Saxon celebration! Meet reenactor Mark Routledge in our family Pastfinders activity in the morning and enjoy stories around the campfire with him in the afternoon . Local author and teacher Geoff Hill will also be reading from his book ‘Draugr.’

Pastfinders sessions, £4 per child. Afternoon activities free, just drop-in, no booking required.

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44

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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45

WHAT’S ON

Marden House Concerts 2018 PROGRAMME The Jacquin Trio

Sunday 28th January 2018 at 3.00pm The Jacquin Trio are widely known for their dynamic and spirited performances. Jessie Grimes was resident artist at the 2016 Clandeboye Festival where she provided master classes and gave solo and chamber performances. She has presented a BBC Ten Pieces programme live and teaches the clarinet at the Royal College of Music Junior school. Kay Stephen is currently violinist with the Gildas Quartet with whom she is also an award winner.

She has given performances in many major venues and also on BBC3. Charis Hanning has won many accolades as a solo pianist since she graduated from the Royal College of Music. She enjoys performing with singers and musicians in London, Madrid and Vancouver.

The Trio have had several works specially composed for them including a piece that they will perform at Marden House, They will also be playing from works by Mozart, Bartok and Beethoven.

Marden House, Calne Tickets £12 Adult, £1 Full-time students From Calne Information Centre or at the door.

www.mardenhouseconcert.co.uk

Diary Dates DECEMBER 2017 MOVIOLA@GRITTLETON VILLAGE HALL Wednesday December 6th, 5.30pm Beauty and the Beast [PG] Disney’s live-action adaptation of the classic fairytale by JeanneMarie Leprince de Beaumont.

Belle (Emma Watson) is a bright, beautiful young woman taken prisoner by a hideous beast (Dan Stevens) in his castle. Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff: a china teapot (voice of Emma Thompson), a candelabra (voice of Ewan McGregor) and a mantel clock (Ian McKellen), and eventually learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince. Tickets £6 adults, £3 children from Lesley 01249 783157/email l_palmer@ btinternet.com. Doors open 5.30pm , programme starts at 6pm - please note earlier start time.

Thank You all for your support In 2017. Look forward to welcoming you back to Grittleton Moviola In 2018. Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year MALMESBURY POETRY EVENT 6th December, 7.30pm – 9.30pm Malmesbury’s regular Poetry Slam Event with local poets Tone Rudall & Andrew Carnegie The Old Bell, Malmesbury www.oldbellhotel.co.uk CHARLES DICKENS LITERARY EVENING Wednesday 6th December 7.30pm at Malmesbury Abbey Celebrating Charles Dickens & Christmas with Wiltshire based writer Dr Keith Hooper Tickets £3 (under 18s free) available from the Abbey Bookshop. Refreshments will be available during the interval.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

CALNE FLOWER CLUB Thursday December 7th 7.30pm £5 Marden House, Calne We have Marie Munday with her new demonstration “All I want for Christmas” A chance to take home a Christmas arrangement in our raffle. We look forward to seeing you.

THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL Thursday 7th December at 6.30pm Minety Village Hall Friday 8th December at 6.00pm Hullavington Village Hall Booking: 01249 701628 / poundarts.org.uk

BIG SCREEN BEVERSBROOK Fri 8 December, 8.00pm Beversbrook, Calne THE SENSE OF AN ENDING Sat 09 December, 11.00am and 2.00pm showing Beversbrook, Calne CARS 3 MALMESBURY AND DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB January 8th 2018 Christina Stapley “Herbs to aid the gardener” Christina is the author of three books about herbs.

Affiliated to the Royal Horticultural Society Hon. Secretary. Mrs. Eleanor D Church, Redlands, West End, Brinkworth, Chippenham, Wilts. Tel. 01666 510490 ARKELLS CHRISTMAS FOOD & CRAFT MARKET Sat December 9th 10am to 3pm at Arkell’s Brewery, Stratton, Swindon Featuring food stalls and local crafts with Father Christmas. For information visit www.arkells.com

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47

WHAT’S ON Wessex Concert Orchestra presents ‘MYTHS AND LEGENDS’ Corn Exchange, Devizes on Saturday 9th December at 7.30pm Loreley overture – Bruch King Arthur Suite – Elgar Pictures at an Exhibition – Mussorsky arr. Ravel; Soprano Arias – soloist Stephanie Harrison (to include Humperdink’s Evening Prayer from Hansel and Gretel and When I am laid from Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas) Conductor Tim Harrison says “There are a great range of different musical styles to hear showcasing different characters from mythology, from fiery German, English and Russian music. We are also joined by soprano Stephanie Harrison for a selection of arias.” Tickets £12, Concessions £10 can be from Devizes Books, www.wco.org.uk. and on the door.

Movies@Malmesbury DECEMBER SCHEDULE Monday, 4 at 8pm Kingsman: The Golden Circle Tuesday, 5 at 7pm Nutcracker – Live Ballet from ROH * Friday, 8 at 2pm The Mountain Between Us Friday, 8 at 5.30pm The Lego Ninjago Movie (U) Friday, 8 at 8pm Kingsman: The Golden Circle Monday, 18 at 2pm David Hockney – Exhibition on Screen * Monday, 18 at 8pm The Mountain Between us Friday, 22 at 2pm Goodbye Christopher Robin Friday, 22 at 8pm Goodbye Christopher Robin Tickets: 2pm and 5.30pm £5 & £4 8pm £6 Except * ROH & Exhibition on Screen £10 Tickets from: www.cinema.malmesbury.gov.uk Town Hall or on the Door.

Facebook: MoviesatMalmesbury

Tel: 01666 822143

GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY Saturday 9th December, 7.30pm A Cantata for Christmas and Seasonal Music. St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Great Somerford Tickets £10 (under 16s free) available from Great Somerford Shop, Sutton Benger Post Office & www.villagesingers.co.uk CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT Sunday 10th December 6.30pm Whatley Manor, Malmesbury Festive carols with champagne and canapes. 3 course meal in Greys Brasserie.Tickets £99.00 per person – 01666 822888 to book THE SPRINGFIELDS ACADEMY CHRISTMAS FAYRE Thursday 14th December Doors Open at 6:00pm An evening of Entertainment, Fun & Shopping. The Springfields Academy, Curzon Street, Calne www.springfields.wilts.sch.uk THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT December 14th 2017 Wootton Bassett—An Illuminated Record of Town Life.

Speakers: Clive and Heather Ody For many years Clive and Heather

Ody have recorded the life and times of Wootton Bassett. Tonight, we will see in photographs and films how the town has celebrated, commemorated over many decades. www.facebook.com/pg/ HistoricalWoottonBassett FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Friday 15th December Bath Road Methodist Church, Swindon. 7pm, starts 7:30pm Playing a selection of well known songs and Christmas music Tickets Only £5, available from: Holmes Music (01793) 526393 STEP (01793) 714042 Swindon Cares (01793) 521581 CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Grittleton Chapel 16th December at 4pm.

All welcome, come and experience this unique, historic chapel, hidden away in Grittleton. Service taken by Pastor Jonathan Hunt.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRICKLADE BAND Sunday 17 December at 7.30pm We have our ‘Christmas Present’ at Cricklade Town Hall There’ll be all the carols and Christmas music you’d expect, with the Performance Band and BandAcademy joining forces this year, together with the ladies’ choir, TLC, special guests from Swindon! We’ll have seasonal refreshments, and a raffle kindly supported by Cricklade traders and businesses. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks (and glasses!) too. Entry is by ticket (although you might be able to get in on the night) at the gift of a price of £6 – tickets will be available at the Council Office in Cricklade High Street or from McFarlane Sales and Lettings, also in Cricklade High Street. In its 130th year the band will be out and about playing all the familiar Christmas music – live! - right from 2nd December to Christmas Morning! As usual we’ll be touring the streets of Cricklade, Purton, Ashton Keynes and Latton.

Please send your What’s On and Events to www.towncriermagazine.com 48

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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 fo in rmation . re hu oc a br 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

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 w FREE Quotations w Fully Insured w i klean almost anything w

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

Featuring Rosemary Hammond's

Good Tidings of Great Joy A Cantata for Christmas and Seasonal Music

Sat 9th December, 7.30pm St Peter and St Paul's Church, Great Somerford Tickets £10 (under 16s free) available from Great Somerford Shop & Sutton Benger Post Office

Sat 16th December, 7.30pm Parish Church of St John Baptist, Market Place, Cirencester Tickets £12 (under 16s free) available from Cirencester Visitor Information & Sutton Benger Post Office Tickets also available from www.villagesingers.co.uk

For more information email contact@villagesingers.co.uk

KINGSTON HOUSE 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 | DECEMBER 2017

49

FOOD & DRINK Preparation time: 20 minutes + chilling time Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes Serves 8-10 Ingredients 500g pack ready-made sweet shortcrust pastry 75g unsalted butter, softened 100g golden caster sugar 175g golden syrup 175g maple syrup 3 eggs, beaten ½ tsp vanilla extract 300g Pecan nuts halves Double cream, or good quality ice cream to serve

Pecan Pie

l A Traditiona e t i r u o v a F n America

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Method Lightly flour the to line a 23cm work surface. Roll out th e pastry and loose-botto use med tart tin keep left ov . (Top tip - I er pastry in always ca se I need to the blind bak fill any cracks ing!) Prick th after e pastry bas chill for 30 m e with a fork ins. then Heat oven to 190C/170C fan case with gr easproof pap /gas 5. Line the chilled p astry er, fill with ce and bake fo ramic bakin r 15-20 mins g beans until the sid the beans an es are set. Re d parchmen move t and return mins until th to the oven e base is set for 5-10 and the pas to cool. try is golden . Leave Increase the oven temper ature to 200C Beat the but /190C fan/g ter and sugar as 6. tog until light an d fluffy. While ether with an electric w hisk the beaters pour in both are still turn of the syrup ing s. Gradually 1⁄4 tsp salt an ad d d the vanilla, the beaten eg and whisk un Then stir thro gs, ti ugh the nut s and pour al l combined. into the tart l of the mixtu case. Bake fo re r 10 mins. Tu 160C/140C rn heat dow fan/gas 3 an n to d co – the pie shou ntinue bakin g for 30-35 m ld be golden ins brown but th wobble a lit tle in the ce e filling shou nt re when shak ld completely en. Leave to in the tin. Se cool rve with crea m or ice crea m.

FREEHOUSE DINING WINE REAL ALES

A Christmas Gift forYou!

£20 Terms & Conditions Apply

From The Barbury inn near Avebury, Wiltshire During December for Every TWO Adult Main A La Carte Dishes Enjoyed, We will give You a Present of a "Surprise Envelope" to be Redeemed in January or February 2018!

£50

£100

Each Envelope will Contain a Gift Voucher of £20, £50 or £100.

Present the Surprise UNOPENED Envelope to the Waiting Staff when you Receive Your Bill. it will be opened in Front of You and the DiSCOUNT will be Applied to Your Bill.

The Barbury inn Team wish You All A Merry Christmas & a Very Happy New Year!

We will Look Forward to seeing You Again Very Soon..

The Barbury inn, Broad Hinton, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9PF 01793 731510 • info@thebarburyinn.co.uk •Thewww.thebarburyinn.co.uk Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017 51

FOOD & DRINK

The Pear Tree at Purton Enjoy A Festive Experience with Good Food, Good Wine and Good Company

C

HRISTMAS is a special time at The Pear Tree in Purton where the team at the familyrun country house hotel offer an outof-the-office festive experience for a business team, friends or family.

For larger parties of 15 and over, there’s a festive party menu of three courses at just £32 a head with a welcome drink on arrival. Hats and crackers are provided with coffee at the end of the meal. These bookings must be made in advance and pre-paid a week in advance – so time is running out for any larger bookings and availability will now be limited.

If you’re worried you’ve left it too late to meet up with that special friend or business colleague you’d like to thank for their support – pick up the phone.

STARTERS oil p with crème fraiche, paprika Spiced butternut squash sou rs pea ed y, rocket, carameliz Game terrine with fig chutne m red cabbage, horseradish crea Mackerel fillet with pickled MAIN COURSE le & cranberry stuffing potatoes, pigs in blankets, app Roast local turkey with roast ey, mustard mash with herb stuffing, port & hon ly bel k por st roa slow led Rol le ee, spinach, dill pickled app ised fennel, red pepper pur Pan-fried trout fillets with bra pes a, tomato sauce, to ille vegetables, crispy polent tou rata ter win h wit ese che Glazed goats DESSERT g with rum sauce Traditional Christmas puddin te, blackcurrant compote fait with crystallised chocola Iced chocolate & chestnut par sted meringue with cranberry biscotti, toa Spiced orange crème brulee Tea, coffee & mince pies

Hotel manager Alix Young said: “We love Christmas at The Pear Tree and we enjoy welcoming our guests into our home and sharing our love of good food, often locally sourced.

There are no evening discos here or loud entertainment. We offer a festive experience in beautiful surroundings.”

For groups of up to 14, the hotel offers a classic winter lunchtime menu of one, two or three courses starting at £12 per person on Tuesday to Saturday between noon and 2pm.

STARTERS Game terrine - fig chutne y, rocket, caramelized pea r Tomato, chilli & red pepper soup with crème fraiche, almonds Potted mackerel with pot ato & mustard seed salad, flatbread MAIN COURSE Turkey Ballotine with sag e & redcurrant stuffing, fondant potato, roasted roo t vegetables Pheasant breast with prosciu tto, red cabbage, red wine Pan-fried rainbow trout wit h sautéed potato, chorizo , basil pesto Roasted vegetable tagliat elle with rosemary & tom ato, parmesan DESSERT Christmas Pudding with rum sauce Dark chocolate mousse wit h passionfruit cream, biscot ti Lemon tart with toasted me ringue, poached raspberrie s 52

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

If you have special dietary needs – such as intolerance to gluten or dairy – call and let the team know in advance so they can provide an interesting dish for you. Many of the dishes at The Pear Tree are already gluten free.

The Pear Tree at Purton

01793 772100

www.peartreepurton.co.uk

Calne Tandoori Take Away & Restaurant

We bring a touch of Indian Cuisine to Calne Open 7 days a week. Free delivery over £12 in the Calne area.

Out of Calne area minimum order £18 plus a charge of £2 for delivery.

From the staff at Calne Tandoori To all our customers we wish you a Merry Christmas and all the very best for the New Year.

7 William Street, Calne, SN11 9BB

Tel: 01249 824886 or 07404 949618 www.calnetandoori.uk or on Facebook

Red Ribbons Offer!

Find any item in store wrapped in a red ribbon and get 10% off that item.

Christmas Hampers, Food and Gifts

Foodalicious

21-23 Church St, Calne Tel: 01249 817777 www.foodalicious.co.uk

Award Winning, Family Run Farm Shop Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm (9.30am – 5pm on Sundays) HOME & LOCALLY REARED FRESH MEAT, POULTRY & GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, BURGERS & FAGGOTS Christmas Orders now being taken

Premium Christmas Trees Now on Sale

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 | DECEMBER 2017

53

FOOD & DRINK

Mulled Wine An easy mulled wine recipe for the festive season, brimming with Christmassy spice.

Don’t bother with expensive wine - a cheap red will work beautifully and no one will ever know the difference! Enjoy!

Preparation time: less than 30 mins Cooking time: less than 10 mins Serves: 4- 6 adults Ingredients for 4- 6 servings 1 bottle dry red wine 2 (5cm) cinnamon sticks 1 dessertspoon whole cloves 1 dessertspoon whole allspice 1 large piece orange rind (avoid the pith) 1 large piece lemon rind (avoid the pith) 2-4 tablespoons demerara sugar, (or to taste)

Tequila!

Tequila’s was North America’s first distilled drink and the first to be produced commercially.

Tequila is made from the blue Agave plant which is related to the Amaryllis and the Lily.

They vary a lot depending on the production process, the growing environment of the Agave plants including the temperature, the soil, the age of the plants and the means by which they’re baked.

Seek out tequilas made completely from agave they’re much smoother and can be sipped neat.

Blanco or silver tequilas are virtually unaged so are zesty and spicy.

Reposado tequilas are aged for 2-12 months in oak barrels. This gives them more of a warm woody flavour.

54

Method

Pour the wine into a heavy saucepan over medium heat, and add the cinnamon, cloves, allspice, lemon rind and orange rind. Heat gently, but don’t bring to the boil. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and once dissolved, taste to see if you’d like the wine sweeter and add more if so (take care not to burn your mouth as this will be hot!).

Keep hot on medium to low heat for 20 minutes to let the flavours infuse the wine.

Strain your mulled wine into heatproof glasses or mugs and serve at once, perhaps accompanied by mince pies or just enjoy by the fireside.

Añejos tequilas are aged for longer - 1 to 4 years, and are very woody.

Many people consider the reposado tequilas to give the best balance between the agave profile and the wood but it’s really down to personal taste.

by Sarah Davey

Join us at The Lansdowne Arms this Christmas!

There is still time to book you Christmas celebration meal with us for just £18.95 for 2 courses, available throughout December.

Our CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA 8:30pm 23rd December with live music with Brother form Another Duo, Our Christmas Raffle, Mince Pies & Mulled Wine Raising funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance NEW YEAR’S EVE DISCO 31st December from 8pm See in the New Year with family, friends & neighbours and dance to all the great party classics

NEW WINTER MENU NOW AVAILABLE

01249 812422

www.lansdownearms.co.uk

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more offers and updates The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

55

FOOD & DRINK

Pear Tart n i t a T

on e k a t t n e fer f i d y l t h g tin A sli a t t r a t l na o i t i d a r t a utes Serves: 6 r 20 min e: 1 hou m ti n o Preparati

nts Ingredie ar ster sug 125g ca chopped r, e tt bu 40g cold ger und gin 1/2 tsp gro amon into und cinn and cut 1/2 tsp gro d, cored le e e p , rs ea 3 large p s e g wed pastry tter puff u -b ll a g e 375 , to serv | DECEMBER 2017 56 The Town reamMagazine cCrier Double

Method Preheat oven to 200C/gas 6. Put a 21cm-diameter pan with an oven frying proof handle (th is bit is importa a hob over a med nt!) on ium heat. Add th e sugar to the dr and heat, stirring y pan constantly until it turns a lovely coloury. Add the caramel butter, ginger an d cinnamon and to combine. stir well Place the pears in the caramel an d spoon over th Turn the heat do e mixture. wn and cook for 5–10 minutes un pears are just te til the nder and cooked but retain their Remove from th shape. e heat and cool slightly. Arrange to form an attra the pears ctive pattern in the pan.

Roll out the pastr y to about 5mm thick and cut a di slightly bigger th sc an your pan (abo ut 24cm). Place pastry disc on to the p of the pears an d caramel, then tuck it snugly ar carefully ound the outside of the pears and into the sides of down the pan.

Bake the pie in th e oven for 30–4 0 minutes, or un pastry is golden til the brown and puffe d up. Remove fro oven and leave m the for 10 minutes.

Run a knife arou edge, place a lar nd the ge plate over th e top and carefu tart onto the plat lly turn the e. Serve with crea m.

NU

PRE CHRISTMAS DINNER ME

berland Sauce Chicken Liver Parfait with Cum Roulade cado Avo and ken Smoked Chic ie Rose Melon and Prawn Cocktail Mar t, m filled with Roast Chestnu hroo Mus llo obe Port sted Roa bs Bleu Cheese and Herb Crum Basil Pesto and Croutons Cream of Tomato Soup with HHH y Sauce stnut Stuffing and Cranberr Roast Cotswold Turkey, Che on and Caper Butter Lem with Bass Sea of ts Fille Grilled Sauce e Pudding and Horseradish Roast Topside Beef, Yorkshir Sauce ge Oran and Port with g Half Roast Ducklin non Slow Cooked Venison Bourgig stnut and Thyme Sauce Che my Crea a with st Roa Nut st Potatoes Seasonal Vegetables and Roa HHH dy Sauce Christmas Pudding with Bran Pear Belle Helene Baileys and Coffee Cheesecake Roulade Black Cherry and Chocolate Ice Cream HHH Three Courses £22.95 Main and dessert £19.95 ired on booking please A £5 deposit per person requ

CHRISTMAS DAY M

ENU

THE LYSLEY ARMS 01249 652864

Book your Christmas celebration with us now for December

London Rd, Pewsham, Chippenham, SN15 3RU www.thelysleyarmschippenham.co.uk

Game Terrine with Christmas Chutney Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Roula de with Lemon & Cream of Mushroo Black Pepper m Soup with Thym e and Stilton Crouto Langoustine and ns Prawn Cocktail wi th Marie Rose Sa uce A Trio of Melon wi th Lime Sorbet HHH Salmon en Croute with Lobster Sauc Roast Beef with Yo e rkshire Pudding an Roast Turkey with d Horseradish Sauc Chestnut Stuffing, e Ch ipo Roast Loin of Pork lata and Cranberr y Sauce with Baked Apple and Sage and Onion Stuffing Nut Roast with Ch estnut Gravy all served with Roast and New Po tatoes Medley of Seasona l Vegetables HHH Baileys Cheesecak Apple and Cinnamo e n Dumpling Christmas Pudding with Rum Sauce Chocolate, Black Ch erry and Kirsch Ro ulade Ice Cream HHH Cheese Platter wi th Biscuits Coffee & Mince Pie s HHH Price per Adult - £6 7 Price per Child (Under 12) - £37 Sittings - 12.30 sit and eat or 3.30 sit and eat.

We are unable to take bookings aft er these times.

THE WHITE HART Tel: 01249 811369

2 London Road, Calne SN11 0AB www.facebook.com/whitehartcalne/ The White Hart in Calne has now reopened its doors to the public in time for the festive season. Running the Inn on the London Road are Jack (pictured) and Jamie Berryman-Talbot.

Rooms available from £65 per night including Breakfast.

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

57

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Be less stuffed and less stressed over the festive period Helen Adams, founder of Wiltshire’s Oakmead Clinic helps people with a range of issues including weight loss which is often considered by men and women at the turn of the year.

However, Helen advises anyone to look after their digestion over the Christmas and New Year period.

“This can be a time of stress and parties and not enough hours in the day,” Helen said. “If you are on a healthy weight loss programme, have a restricted diet or intolerance of certain foods, it can be even more stressful.

“There is a deep connection between stress and digestion.

When stressed we activate the fight and flight response in

d and alcohol: Dealing with all of that foo

drink always start with Tip One - When out for a n alternate alcohol The er. wat glass of plain still one glass of alcohol to with one glass of water and r. live the on reduce the load y quickly makes the “Drinking lots of alcohol ver sometimes it cannot and d liver work very, very har re toxins circulating the keep up. This leads to mo to a hangover but it can s body - we know this lead estive problems and also lead to skin issues, dig fatigue.” eat all of that gluten, Tip Two – if don’t want to eat something at home pastry and carbohydrate, before you go out. ravenous, you can pick Helen said: “If you are not affect you less and it will and choose foods that can gs which affect you thin se tho id be easier to avo without feeling deprived.” vegetables which do help Tip Three - Keep up your rate more efficiently. your digestive system ope king bowl of salad at a “Often there’s a lonely loo pted to ignore – but tem be y party which you ma deal with the party these foods will help you fibre and some of that of lots food. Salad contains a and that helps get is eaten by your gut bacteri se good bacteria Tho d. foo nutrients out of your insoluble and toxins latch need to be fed. The rest is be eliminated from the can on to it and therefore body.”

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

our brains. Then the last thing that happens is the healthy digestion of food. We are in panic mode and we might have to fight off a sabre tooth tiger so the process of digestion simply stops.

“When we are calm, our body’s resources turn naturally back to digestion – the body then takes all of the energy it needs from the food we’ve consumed and is not distracted by other worries.”

By following a few tips, Helen believes we can all enjoy Christmas and New Year feeling less stressed and less stuffed.

Anyone interested in talking to Helen can book a 30-minute free discovery consultation via the website – www.oakmeadclinic. co.uk or email helen@oakmeadclinic.co.uk

Dealing with extra stress: Tip One – ask yourself do you really need to do all of those things such as making your own crackers or flower arrangements? Cho ose what’s important and prioritise.

Tip Two – relax at the end of a busy day. A bath with Epsom salts which are full of mag nesium the calming mineral - relaxes muscles and takes tension away.

Tip Three - If you don’t have a bath – stick your feet in a bucket of Epsom salts whil e watching the tv or peeling the sprouts.

Tip Four – try meditation.

“You only need ten minutes. Just clos e your eyes and concentrate on breathing slowly and regularly – and when you breath out visualise all that stress leaving your body.”

Tip Five – ask for help, particularly from children who are often not involved with the joy of cooking – do little jobs together. See things as family time and not as a task to be done.

Tel: 07799 431612 To find out more visit www.oakmeadclinic.co.uk

Reflexology, massage & facial treatments for your physical, mental and emotional equilibrium

The Mill Beauty Studio Thank you to all our wonderful clients for supporting us throughout the year.

We wish you all a fun filled Christmas ✃ and a Happy New Year.

A special treat for everyone

£5 off

any treatment at The Mill Beauty Studio in the New Year Minimum spend £20. Voucher must be used by 28/02/18.

Cannot be used with any other offer or gift voucher.

Please contact The Mill Beauty Studio for appointments and more information.

01249 816827

2 Lower Quemerford mill Calne, Wiltshire SN11 8JS

www.millhealthandbeauty.co.uk info@millhealthandbeauty.co.uk

Reflexology and massage may help with: • • •

Stress management Sleep difficulties Migraines

Female health issues Post-operative recovery Lymphoedema

Reflexology, massage &

physical, mental and em Reflexology, massage & facial treatments Reflexology and massage may help with: for your physical, mental and emotional • Stress management Reflexology and mas equilibrium • Sleep difficulties •

Migraines

Reflexology and • Stress manag may help Giftmassage vouchers available – anywith: denomination or treatment; you decide!

• Sleep difficul • Stress management • Migraines • Female health issues Yvette Baker MAR MFHT • Sleep difficulties 07850 414271 01249 821119 • Post-operative recovery www.harmonyholisticscalne.co.uk • Migraines Facebook: www.facebook.com/harmonyholisticscalne • Lymphoedema

Reflexology and mass

• Stress manage • Sleep difficult 07850 414271 01249 821119 • Migraines

Gift vouchers available – any denomination o GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE any denomination or treatment; you decide!

Yvette Baker MAR MFHT

Yvette Baker MAR M 07850 414271 01249 8 www.harmonyholisticsca

www.harmonyholisticscalne.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/har Facebook: www.facebook.com/ harmonyholisticscalne Gift vouchers availab

Pamplemouse Bespoke Hair Design & Beauty Salon

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Joico Colouring centre

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Gift vouchers availab The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

59

BEAUTY EXPERTISE

d

’tis the season …

by Kelly Shaw

T

HE run up to Christmas can be one of the busiest and most stressful times of year, with countless hours of present shopping, nativity play preparation, writing and posting cards, and attending drinks parties. Plus, to top it all, you are also required to look glamorous and flit about in something sequinned with photo-perfect hair and makeup at the drop of a hat. I hear all the stories about the frantic rushing and pressure of the party season, but I also adore spending my time making people feel great about the way they look. With this in mind, I think I am well placed to offer some advice on how to “survive” the Christmas party season! And who knows, I could even help with last minute gift ideas for the children’s schoolteacher. After all, how many bottles of wine and boxes of chocolates must they receive? Instead, why not club together with other mums and get them a voucher for a de-stressing massage or relaxing manicure?

With a well-executed plan of treatments and at-home care, you can start December with glowing and healthy skin; ready to face all the social events the season will throw at you. We will also look at the finishing touches – think of it a little like decorating the Christmas tree – with manicures, lashes and tanning, but first it is all about laying the foundations.

Facials and peels are a fabulous way to prepare your skin for the season ahead. Look to have something that focuses on brightening, exfoliation will be key for this so a facial including microdermabrasion or hydroxy acids will get great results. If getting to the salon is out of the question what can you do at home to make sure your skin is in tip-

60

“With a wellexecuted plan of treatments and at-home care, you can start December with glowing and healthy skin.” top shape? Here is a short list of skin ‘best practice’ you can apply to your regime: Wash skin twice in the morning and twice in the evening. The first wash will remove dirt and makeup, the second will actually get in your pores to clean your skin.

Exfoliate to remove dead skin, but ensure you use the right product for your skin, and don’t overdo it.

Scrubbing away at angry and red skin will not make you look glowing and festive. Instead you will probably look more like Rudolph.

Wear a moisturiser with SPF50 sunscreen every day – even in winter – to protect skin from harmful ‘ageing rays’ all year round.

Don’t fiddle with blemishes – you will just spread the bacteria around your face and you may wake up the following day with multiple spots instead of just one.

Once the foundations are laid you have such a variety of finishing touches to choose from. One of my personal must-haves is fake tan, whether that is an at-home application (there are some fantastic options out there now) or a professional spray tan, it just helps me feel more confident in my little black dress!

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

It then should be nails; again, either at-home or salon I always do a little pedicure as my feet have been tucked away in boots for months!

Plus, it wouldn’t be Christmas for me without a red sparkly colour on my fingers. Finally look at lashes; you could choose strip or lash extensions or my personal favourite a lash-lift, which will really get your eyes party ready. Some glitter and shimmer to finish your look with the amazing selection of make-up available will have you looking and feeling like you can breeze through this party season! However you decide to prepare, remember to relax and enjoy it, that is what Christmas is really about after all.

With over 20 years’ experience as a beauty therapist, Kelly Shaw's passion and dedication to the industry has enabled her to achieve professional success as Spa Director for some of the world's most exclusive global resorts. Founder of Kelly Shaw Consultancy Ltd and Hampshire's multi award-winning boutique salon k:SPA, Kelly also sits on the board for both CIBTAC and BABTAC - British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology.

Hypnotherapy of Calne Sarah-Jane Morris

Dip Hyp Cs, Dip CP, Ad Dip Cp

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

Weight Loss hypnotherapy available a New Year a New Start!

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

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

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

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

61

RUNNING & FITNESS COACH

Become a better Runner

by Verity Wright, www.runverity.com

Here are my top tips that will help

R

UNNING is the one sport that people think that they don’t have to worry about technique, running is simple, isn’t it? You just put your trainers on and run - if only that was true. By improving your running technique, you can improve as a runner by running more efficiently and subsequently running faster.

Poor technique can lead to you becoming tired more easily as you are not running efficiently and this can lead to injury if you have bad form.

As a running coach, I do not believe in changing a runner’s ing & Fitness Coach running style as we all have our own unique way of running Breathe Properly and there is no perfect running right, www.runverity.com form. However, I do believe that e first questions by I ammaking asked fromthe new following runners is small eathe properly whilst running. If you are one of the adjustments youit can ple who have this problem, don’t worry can bebecome a easily. better runner.

common cause of being out of breath when which in some cases can lead to serious pain and/or at you could be running too fast too soon.

Should Walk

62

you develop good running form : Posture: You should run tall and in the direction that you are travelling in, your shoulders should be rela xed, back and down, try run ning with your shoulders bunched up to you r ears, this should feel uncom fortable and unnatural. You would soon tire if you continued to run like this over any distance. Relax your shoulders and keep your head high, look ahead of you with your jaw relaxed and your mouth open.

Arms: To see how important arms are when you run try run ning 10m with your arms above your head or behind your back. By doin g this hopefully you will see how out of control and uncoordinated you may feel and how your arms balance you. Bend your arms at the elbow, abo ut a 90-degree angle and drive your elbow back, as though you are ham mering a nail into a wall. This stops the arm s crossing your body and con sequently twisting your torso. If you run with a strong arm drive your body will look for symmetry, therefore you r arms should match your legs , and it’s easier to drive our arms back when you are tired than driving the knee up but by doing this, trust me, your legs will follow.

Hands: Your hands do not wan t to be clenched into a fist, the y need to be relaxed; clenching them was tes too much energy. Imagine that you have a budgie in each hand and you are gently carrying the budgies so that they don’t get squashed, if you clench your fists you will kill the budgies; remember “Don’t kill the bud gies!” In other words, keep you r hands relaxed and slightly cupped .

Hips: If you run with high hip s this will keep you in the tall upright posture that you should be aim ing for, before you run just tuck your tailbone (your bottom) in. This pushes the hips forward and enables you to run tall. Imagine that you have a bowl of water in your pelvis; the idea is that you don’t spill the wat er so keep your hips stable and balanced when running, try not to leak any water out of the bowl.

Foot strike: There is no righ t way or wrong way to land on your feet, generally as long as you land underneath your center of gra vity and don’t over stride this will help imp rove your leg turnover, so ima gine that you are “popping” off the ground .

Try these adjustments next tim e you run, work from the hea d downwards and spot check how you are doing periodically. As you incr ease your miles and as you start to tire keep a check list in your hea d, where are my shoulders? What are my arm s doing, keep my head up high and, above all, run relaxed.

Verity Wright is an England Athletics Qualified Coach in Running Fitness and runs a successful Athletics Coaching business in the South of England. She competes as an endurance athlete in events from 10k to 42k over country, roads, fells and mountains. If you want to know more, you can visit her website www.runverity.com

make your run more enjoyable so that you want to do it

And if you see anyone you know whilst you are on your The Town Crier Magazine | again.

DECEMBER 2017 walking break, and to be honest this is when we usually see

ust starting out on your running journey then walk,

people, then just think to yourself, well they don't know that I haven't just finished a 20-mile training run!

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

63

TRAVEL

ADVERTISING FEATURE

AUSTRALIA

Christmas 2018 - Down Under ??

Now is the time to start planning your once in a lifetime trip to Australia – but be careful, it’s catching !!!

It’s not as far as you think – you can break your journey for 1 or 2 nights or more and experience an exciting stopover in Hong Kong, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bangkok or Singapore.

Australia is a truly amazing country offering a vast range of holiday options from escorted touring, to self- drive itineraries, motorhomes, independent touring, the list is endless.

With snorkelling and diving on some of the best coral reefs in the world to divine beaches, experiences in the outback, city breaks, rail journeys and cruises, you have so many options.

Whether you are looking for a holiday tailored to your own specific requirements or a prepackaged holiday, we will be very happy to help and advise.

As Australian Specialists and having visited the country several times, we both have first hand knowledge and our passion is to share it with you …

It's Pebbles Travel individual service that makes all the difference, we will endeavour to create a perfect holiday experience for you all.

Pebbles Travel are a member of ABTA and an Accredited Body Member of Hays Travel Limited, so you can book their services with confidence.

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www.pebblestravel.co.uk 6464 The Town Crier Magazine | MARCH 2016

NEW ZEALAND Awaits you!!!

With an abundance of natural wonders, you will be in a land where Aoraki Mt. Cook and the glaciers rub shoulders, where geothermal wonders exist side by side with amazing beaches lapped by azure seas.

Why not hire a motor home and hit the open roads? Be sure to plan a stop at the Bay of Islands, tropical beauty and tranquil harbours all await you.

Rotorua, a unique volcanic landscape and rich in Maori culture make Rotorua one of the most visited places in New Zealand. The list of places to stop is endless, so make sure you have plenty of time!! Or if you’re not the adventurous type an escorted tour could be your thing, either way here at Pebbles Travel we can arrange anything you so desire, so don’t delay pick up the phone today, or just drop us an e-mail martine@pebblestravel.co.uk

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

65

Veterinary Clinics

Thameswood Veterinary Clinics

“Making Life Better”

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Join our VIPensioner Health Club to receive discounts on arthritis care eg. laser therapy, physio, blood tests and much much more ... spread the costs of preventative treatment into monthly payments at up to 20% discount.

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Thameswood Veterinary Clinics

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39B Station Road Royal Wootton Bassett Swindon SN4 7ED 01793 230266

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

67

PETS

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

Family Pet Calendar 2018 All proceeds to Wiltshire Air Ambulance

TownCr er NORTH WILTSHIRE

Family Pet Calendar 2018

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

All proceeds to Wiltshire Air Ambulance Design: Samuel Morgan

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CJ ST

Tel: 07815 836953 email: maxcolbourne@me.com

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Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk Day care from £13 per day Cattery £12 per night Breed standard groom from £25 The care and comfort of your Dog boarding £15 per Bath and blow dry from £10 night pets is our business Individual/group training Day care from £13 per day

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ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT 01793 852458 FOR CONTINUITY OF CARE The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

69

D

PETS Established 1982 - Licensed pet shop for 35 years

SHIRLEY’S

The National Pet Care Company

Caring for animals from a small pet to a small holding

PET SHOP

Dedicated to serving the people of Calne for 35 years Don't forget your pets this Christmas – toys, christmas stockings, and treats now in stock for dogs, cats and small animals.

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Christmas week opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9am to 5pm

Are you out all day? going away?

3 Dog Walking and hosting Telephone: 3 Cat Care 07496 855694 3 Pet Feeding 3 DEFRA approved Pet Taxi/Ambulance www.animalsathome.co.uk/ swindon-district 3 Fully insured and DBS (CRB) checked

Grittenham Grittenham Grooming Grooming

Grittenham Grooming is a small, friendly Dog Groomery based in a home environment, just outside Royal Wootton Bassett. We provide a personal, one-to-one service and style the dog to client preference.

• Certificated, licensed for Dog Care, fully insured Dog Grooming specialist.

• Established 1994 • Wash and Dry for a ‘bit of a freshen up’ • Complete groom out and de-matt.

• Ears cleaned, nails trimmed and gland cleared • Pick up before you leave for work and drop off after you‘re home from work available.

70

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Tel: 01249 817089 29 High Street, Calne

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

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

Dogs are our passion at Grittenham Grooming and our main concern is the dogs’ welfare at all times.

Airedales • Bischons • Westies • Scotties Spaniels • Retrievers • Labradors • Poodles to name but a few . . .

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If you would like to know more about us and our free range doggy boarding see the website:

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Let it

Snow!

A

WHITE Christmas is something many of us dream of, but how much do we know about snow?

Snow is made of a bizarre and complex substance which we take completely for granted – water!

Water is a liquid at room temperature, unlike other substances with similar-sized molecules, such as ammonia or methane – these are gases. Water requires more energy to boil it than other liquids and unlike most substances which shrink as they freeze, water expands as it turns to ice. As it turns out this is rather important. Ice is less dense than water so it floats. If it became more dense like most substances lakes would freeze from the bottom up and aquatic life would die. But because water freezes from the top down, the floating ice forms a layer on the surface which insulates the water beneath allowing it to stay liquid and all the swimming creatures to survive.

Few people know that for snow to fall at temperatures higher than

-40C a special particle called an ice nucleus is required. Snow seeds as they are known include fine particles of soil, dust, and volcanic ash. These ‘seeds’ pass through the clouds of water vapour in the upper atmospheres and it is on their surface that ice crystals form which become snow. Snowflakes are all different because of the way they attract new water to their ‘corners’. As the crystals fall through the atmosphere they pass through different layers of temperature and humidity, and get tossed around by the wind.

The interplay between the snow seeds, random water droplets and their need to grow in a hexagonal fashion means that each snowflake grows rapidly in a unique way until they are large enough to fall as snowflakes.

The perfect snowflakes that we see on Christmas cards are actually quite idealised. Most snowflakes are imperfect, but they do have an underlying symmetry which has been noticed by humans for thousands of years. Most flakes are 1cm or less across but occasionally

atmospheric conditions conspire to form giant snowflakes. In 1915 snowflakes 10cm across fell in Berlin, and in Montana in 1887 flakes 38cm (15 inches) across were recorded.

But if snow is made of ice (which is clear or possibly slightly blue), why is snow dazzling white?

Well the reason is because of the complex structure of snowflake crystals. Light rays bounce around from one crystal of ice to another, randomly until they find their way out. Because of the very short distances between the reflective surfaces the light rays are efficiently scattered and none are absorbed, and if no light is absorbed then a substance appears white.

If we do have a few flakes this Christmas then you can amaze your friends with how much you now know about snow!

All together now…’I’m dreaming of a white Christmas…’

by Monica Cox

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

71

PUZZLES

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FLOORING Bringing Luxury Home • Carpets and Vinyls CONTRACT AND DOMESTIC FLOOR COVERING

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72

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

ACROSS 1 Melodious sounds (5) 4 Attain, accomplish (7) 8 Royal ruler (7) 9 Latin American dance (5) 10 Astonishing, impressive (7) 12 Large bird of prey (5) 14 Thrift store (7, 4) 18 Officially register (5) 19 Delivers mail (7) 21 Occupation, vocation (5) 23 Faltering speech (7) 24 Discord, disunity (7) 25 The taste of toothpaste (5) Solutions to the crossword and sudoku on page 86

DOWN 1 Milk-producing animal (6) 2 Person lying outside to get a tan (9) 3 Royal dog (5) 4 Burnt remains (3) 5 Female party-giver (7) 6 Type of tree (3) 7 Rubbed-out, removed (6) 11 Rise from bed (3, 2) 13 Male wedding attendants (9) 15 Soothe, assuage (7) 16 Thawed, defrosted (6) 17 Vitality, dynamism (6) 20 Large group of bees (5) 22 Donkey, burro (3) 23 Group of items (3)

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AUTO-BIOGRAPHIES

Renault Koleos 2017

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist - tweeting @carwriteups The Renault Koleos won’t rock your world, but it’s a decent enough SUV. It looks a bit too like many other SUVs out there – most noticeably the Skoda Kodiaq, but it’s an impressive car, nonetheless. I got behind the wheel of the flagship trim level – the Signature Nav, which has a generous amount of Kit, comprising big 19-inch alloy wheels, a sat-nav, a touchscreen and leather-bound seats. The car’s infotainment system, accessed via the touchscreen is easy and self-explanatory to use, and the Renault is practical, offering cubby holes and four USB slots. What’s more, the Koleos is endowed with good quality soft-touch plastics and the hide wrapping the seats and steering wheel is top notch.

The top-of-the-tree 2.0 dCi 175 AWD X-Tronic Koleos I drove really is the bee’s-knees, in terms of out-and-out technology and cabin refinement. The layout is well thought out for driver and passengers, and room is more than respectable. The wheelbase is the same as the X-Trail’s at 2,705mm – and this equates to awesome legroom.

Better still, the Koleos’ load area is 29 litres bigger than the Nissan’s – measuring 579 litres. Alas, take a tape-measure to the similar-looking Skoda Kodiaq and the Czech-made car’s boot is 630 litres. Oh well, you can’t have everything. Strangely the Gallic car brand isn’t providing the Koleos with a seven-seat option, though. This could be a deal-breaker as Skoda’s Kodiaq does. Renault gets away with it, however, by explaining that you can always go for the Grand Scenic if you need all those seats.

On the road, the Renault Koleos is well-behaved and easy to like. Zero to 62mph arrives in 9.5 seconds and the top speed is 125mph, so the car has plenty of ‘go’ for motorway commutes or for overtakes on lesser roads. The Koleos has 174 horses under its ample bonnet to provide such power, and this helps tug the car along, even with five-up and a fully laden boot.

The auto ‘box isn’t bad, even though it’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This means the transmission shifts through a constant range of ratios. Alas, CVTs

don’t always work as seamlessly as they should, resulting in a rather jerky driving experience.

Nevertheless, I’m pleased to report Renault has stuck an advanced CVT into the Koleos that uses technology to copy a sequential ‘box. This makes the car painless to operate.

The Koleos’ ride is super comfy, with its soft suspension making you all but forget the existence of potholes. But the squidgy springs don’t wreck the handling; if anything, the French SUV comes across as predictable and steady.

The Koleos I drove had all-wheeldrive, so I also tested it off-road.

Because the car has good ground clearance I could drive it over stones and hummocks without fear of ripping bits off the underneath of the Koleos. Furthermore, the Renault grips well in mud and anything not resembling tarmac.

It’s no Land Rover, but it’s a great asset to have if you live in the sticks, or you plan on lugging a tin-tent to a grassy caravan park or suchlike.

The Koleos is a car that is roomy and well-appointed. It also flies the luxury SUV flag for Renault.

This means it could attract fresh customers to the brand who are looking for an SUV with a bit of French flair.

PROS ‘N’ CONS Comfortable √ Refined √ Commanding √ Off-Road Ability √ Insipid Looks X FAST FACTS ((2.0 dCi 175 AWD X-Tronic 2017 - as tested ) Max speed: 125 mph 0-62 mph: 9.5 secs Combined mpg: 47.9 Engine layout: 1995cc fourcylinder diesel turbo Max. power (PS): 174 CO2: 156 g/km Price: £34,200

74

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

75

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Plant hire company takes to the skies!

Business owners Stuart Morgan and Andy Rohrer have taken their recently launched plant hire company sky high - accepting a job many others would find too daunting.

The company were tasked with transporting two new Hyundai cars from the ground and positioning them inside the fuselage of a Boeing 747 former cargo transporter aircraft. The event, to launch the new models, took place at Cotswold Airport, near Cirencester.

Andy Rohrer said: “This is the most unusual job we’ve been asked to do! The cars weighed two tonnes each so we designed a pallet to support the cars while a forklift – itself weighing more than 15 tonnes – was used to lift each car.

“Forklifts of this size, with the required mast height, are very rare. There are less than five in the UK available for hire.

“It took us four hours to achieve our goal of getting both cars up and inside the fuselage.

“It was a specialist job which took weeks of planning.

As a company we’re incredibly open to unusual requests. We’ll always consider the jobs no one else will do. We are very proud we were chosen by Cotswold Airport to carry out this task.”

sites was getting the right plant to the right place at the right time.

Stuart said: “We will consider any job large or small.

We want people to know they can come to us with any practical concerns about completing a home extension, landscaping a garden, building their own home or putting something into an aircraft! We’ll do our best to provide the equipment, and sometimes the specific skills, they need to do the job efficiently, cost effectively and safely.”

The company, based out of Clearwater Business Park in Swindon, has grown rapidly during its first year of operation. The team offers machines for hire for use by the individual homeowner with smaller building projects right, through to commercial developments.

The range of plant available includes micro diggers, a selection of midi diggers and larger diggers up to 20 tonnes. Also available for hire are telescopic and masted forklifts, one to ten tonne dumpers, compaction machines, fuel bowsers and access equipment.

Jo Welch, PR and Events Manager at Cotswold Airport said: “Stuart and Andy could not have been more helpful. They did everything exactly according to the brief. It was a pleasure to deal with Tiger Plant and we won’t hesitate to use them again.”

Tiger Plant was created when Andy and Stuart, who already worked together as property developers and builders, founded the company when they recognised one of their continuing problems on their building 76

To discuss any job – large or small, domestic or commercial, feel free to get in touch by calling 01793 886444 or emailing info@tigerplant.co.uk

01793 886444 • www.tigerplant.co.uk

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07707 07707 375 375 961 961 01249 01249 892 813 103 486 The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

77

GARDENING

d

The Christmas Wreath

by Rachael Leverton

U

NTIL fairly recently in history, certainly up to Victorian times, people could never be certain they would safely survive the harsh winter. So they developed rituals and displays to help them get through the darker days. One such symbolic display of hope was the Christmas wreath. The circular shape is symbolic of eternity or everlasting life because it has no beginning or end. From a Christian perspective it represents the unending circle of life, with the traditional Holly as the thorns on Jesus’ crown and the red berries as his blood.

Now we hang them on our doors and use them as table centrepieces because they look wonderfully opulent and festive.

The word ‘wreath’ is linked to the word ‘wrist’, both words describing the form of a continuous circular 78

shape. This became fused with ‘wrethe’ from middle English which means a twisted band or ring of leaves.

stick sprigs of evergreen foliage from the garden, flowers, berries, dried fruits, nuts, and bows into it using wire if necessary.

At this bleak time of year, it’s traditional to use evergreens and other brightly coloured flowers, foliage, or fruits to adorn a wreath.

In past times the addition of expensive and rare fruits such as pomegranates, indicated wealth, but wreaths also included the display of pinecones, seashells and even imported products. Once the decorations were taken down, the edible parts would be eaten and the bounty of summer could be enjoyed in the depth of winter.

Or you can make your own base by taking a ring of string wire and covering it in moss or hay. This will need to be held in place using thinner gauge wire. You can then wire in foliage and decorations.

I will just warn you about holly though; working with it can be a painful experience so wear gloves and maybe have a box of plasters handy!

Making a wreath is fun and relatively easy. You can make a simple and cheap evergreen circle or push the boat out and create an elaborate bauble ring. You can buy a ring of flower-arrangers’ foam.

Soak it in tepid water, and then

If you want to try something different you can use a circle of pine cones, dried leaves, threaded popcorn and cranberries or woven red and yellow dogwood cut from your garden and interweaved with battery-operated lights. Use your gardener’s imagination.

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79

GARDENING

Watering and Wellies DECEMBER JOBS

• Cover up your compost bins with carpet offcuts to help keep in the heat.

• Pop some more manure into your beds and dig in.

• Cut back any creeping plants that have encroached too much into space that isn’t theirs.

TOP TIP

ning your When you’re plan xt year consider garden for the ne mmer light colour. Bright, su er colours co e ol will wash out th sitioning the t so think abou po green plants blue, purple and and bringing in shadier spots ary coloured the brighter, prim front. re fo e plants to th

• Continue collecting fallen leaves and add them to your leaf bin.

• Cluster together any potted shrubs as this will help protect the root systems from suffering any frost damage.

• Plant your tulip bulbs if you haven’t already provided the ground isn’t frozen.

• Insulate any outdoor taps or turn them off at the mains.

• Spread fresh gravel or grit around any alpine plants.

PLANT OF THE MONTH

Holly

There are hundreds of species of Holly but the English Holly is our most common native evergreen and is often found among ancient oaks or as a marker in hedges indicating a boundary.

A species that is commonly used for decorations during the Christmas season, holly has been used for centuries as part of pagan celebrations in the winter. Plants are characterised by glossy dark green leaves, many with spiky leaves, and once pollinated by insects, female flowers develop into red berries which remain throughout winter.

Holly shrubs are best planted in spring before they begin growing, in full sun.

They respond well to pruning – use the cuttings in the holiday season to decorate your home!

Choose your location carefully as Hollies can grow from 5-60ft tall dependent on the variety.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

HAVE A GO

!

Make a Chri stma You can gath s wreath. er material from your g arden and simply add th e cuttings to a ring of flora l foam which is available fro m most gard en centres or o nline. Holly berries are a touch but yo traditional u ca different cuts n try many - simply be generous w ith the amo unt you use to cr eate a good effect. You ca n add gold or silver bau bles to create sparkle and then hang o n your front d oor for a natu ral and persona l decoration .

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81

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

JO DEACON

The Dragons Christmas Gift T

WO years had passed since the children of the tiny cliff top hamlet of Cherry mead had come across dragons living in a cave nearby. At first they had been afraid of the huge, leathery winged creatures, but discovering by accident that the dragons had a passionate liking for hot-pot, made a strange friendship between them when the children began to bring pots of the savoury stew to the cave. Gradually they became very fond of the creatures, and were very sad when one day they found the cave empty.

Nothing had changed since then in Cherry Mead, but the children still visited the cave in the hopes of one day finding they had returned.

The month was November, and Bonfire night would be celebrated with fireworks and a fire on the village green in three days time. The children were very excited as there would be hot chestnuts, roasted in the fires embers potatoes, toffee apples, and hot cocoa for all.

One frosty night, when the full moon sailed regally across the starry sky, the children decided to pay the cave one last visit as it was getting very cold as evening fell now and even in their thick coats and scarves the children shivered as they wound their way up the narrow path their feet had trodden in the long grass.

They had brought a big pan of stew with them collected carefully and rather sneakily from every kitchen in Cherry Mead, as Friday was traditionally hot pot day and today was Friday. Each child had scooped a cup of the broth out of the bubbling pan and hurried away to pour it into the large pan they now took turns in carrying.

With their torches turned on, they entered the cave, but to their disappointment there was no sign of their friendly dragons. They felt like bursting into tears.

Their friends couldn’t know just how much they missed them.

Then, suddenly, with a beating of wings and a gentle croak, a great shadow filled the entrance to the cave, and the children ran to throw their arms around the enormous scaly beasts, who rubbed their heads against each cheek in greeting.

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

When they smelled their favourite dish, they politely waited their turn, one after another until the pan was licked clean. There were a few burps which made the children giggle as tiny flames escaped with each one, then the children tried to make the dragons understand how much they had missed them.

Strangely, one creature seemed to understand as he nodded his head as though agreeing with all they told him. They explained about Bonfire Night and somehow the dragon got the message across that he would like the children to visit the cave that night.

At first they weren’t too sure as it would mean missing all the fun, but the dragons looked so pleadingly at them, that they all said they would come when it got dark. “We can bring some potatoes and toffee apples, and all sorts of goodies.” They said in happy voices, and then it was time to go home as it was getting really chilly.

Saying goodbye to their friends, they left the cave and ran home for tea.

When people began to gather on the village green, the huge fire was lit, and the tinkling music of a small roundabout began.

The fire blazed and crackled and the children went from stall to stall gathering treats for the dragons. When their pockets were bulging, they decided it was time to go to the cave, and with their torches to light the way, they climbed the steep path to the opening in the cliff.

Their dragon friends were very happy to see them, and it didn’t take them very long to gobble their various treats, then they had a treat of their own for their human friends.

Very gently, they picked up the children one by one and placed them on each others backs between their powerful wings. As the excited children felt a mixture of excitement and fear, they held tightly on to the edge of the scaly wingtips and with a smooth whoosh, the great creatures swept out into the night, climbing higher and higher over the village. All around them, colourful flashes and rainbows danced through the

night sky, brilliant and sparkling they were all around them. The children were speechless with awe and far below them, they could see the white walls of the cottages lit by the scarlet flames of the bonfire. For a long time the dragons circled and swooped as they flew over other parts of the land allowing their passengers to see other displays and bonfires, then they began to feel quite sleepy – in fact one of the younger dragons yawned, allowing a little puff of smoke and flame to escape. They were getting tired too.

children said the could. The wrapping paper flew in all directions as they excitedly tore it off, and the scarves were wrapped around their necks in the blink of an eye.

They hugged the children gently, mindful of their long claws, and rubbed their cheeks on the childrens – their way of bestowing a kiss. Then the dragon who had seemed to understand them, pointed to a roughly made basket behind him. He beckoned the children forward and pointed to what lay inside. There were several small eggs, and one was placed carefully in each childs hands.

Turning for home, it wasn’t long before they landed gently outside the familiar cave, and as before, lifted the children down onto the dewy grass, which was already beginning to crisp with frost.

As they stared at the eggs, suddenly they began to crack open, and as the children expected a baby dragon to pop out, they were more than a little mystified to see a round, shining grey pebble lying there. The dragon tipped one into a girls hand, and motioned to her to rub it. As she did so, the others did the same, and were startled to hear the dragon chuckle – which emitted another small burst of flame.

The children hugged and thanked them, and promised to come again just before Christmas. Of course they had to explain what that was, but the same dragon as before nodded his head, and the children were sure he understood.

The children went to the green for the last few minutes of the bonfire hoping they hadn’t been missed, then clutching toffee apples and with a steaming, sooty potato warming their mittened hands, they sleepily wandered to their homes and their waiting beds.

For the next few weeks, the children were very busy planning for Christmas. They made cards, paper chains, lanterns, and cut out snowflakes from white card to hang on their Christmas trees.

There were presents to wrap, trees to plant in buckets and decorate with baubles and tinsel, and mothers were busy with mince pies and icing the Christmas cake so that all would be ready for the feast on the special day.

In the week before Christmas, they paid their last visit of the year to the dragon cave. They were bearing gifts sneaked out of the house when no one was about to see. They had mince pies, gingerbread men, and even a few crackers. A tiny Christmas tree in a pot had tinsel wrapped around its branches and a silver cardboard star on top. The children had made cards for them all, and each dragon had a woolly knitted scarf even the boys had made. All wrapped in festive paper, their presents looked very special and they were sure the dragons would like them.

Their friends were sitting round a small fire in the back of the cave where the wind couldn’t reach, and they started in delighted surprise to see the children.

With the tree placed on the floor and the cards stood on the rocky outcrops that were like knobbly shelves, the cave looked inviting and cosy. They obviously wanted to open their gifts right there and then, so the

He spoke to them and they could understand him. He told them that the pebbles were magic ones from the garden of their lair high in the mountains far far away, and whenever they wanted to talk to them, if they rubbed the stone, the dragons would hear them wherever they were. “We will come to this cave at this time every year”, he told them, “And we hope you will come and see us every time, even when you are old.”

“But won’t you be very old by then?” asked a little boy.

“Dragons live for a thousand years and we are not yet one hundred.” Laughed the dragon, which meant more smoke and a little flame.

He went on to tell them that if they needed their help, they would come, otherwise they would see them the next year. “We have to go now but thank you for all you have given us,” “Especially the hot pot,” one of the smaller creatures said squeakily, and they all laughed.

Then the dragons went to the cave opening ready to fly away on their long journey home.

“Merry Christmas to you all.” The creatures chorused, and with a great whoosh of sound and air, they vanished into the darkness, swallowed up by the starry sky.

“Well, that’s that until next year I suppose.” One little boy said sadly, but none of the others answered. They were all feeling too sad.

Then they rememberedtheir precious magic stones, and it was a much happier group of children who snuggled under their quilts that night.

The dragon’s gift had been the best gift of all: Happy Christmas Everybody! ............ Jo Deacon...@...2017 ............

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

83

FAITH MATTERS

It’s a Baby!

T

he winter of 1962-1963, was known as the ‘Big Freeze’ because it was one of the coldest winters on record in the UK. Temperatures plummeted and lakes and rivers began to freeze over. In fact it remains the coldest winter since 1895 except in the far north of Scotland. The 22nd December saw a very cold easterly continental wind drawn in from Russia.

Parts of Southern England had heavy snow on 26th and 27th December and the cold air became firmly established. So firmly that the average temperature for January 1963 was -2.1°C with temperatures as low as -20°C. In fact the ‘Big Freeze’ lasted until March 6th, the first morning without frost when the snow began to melt.

It was 23rd December 1962 that my elder sister, Rachel was born at home in Spalding, Lincolnshire.

Within a few days of her birth the health visitor arrived and one thing she stressed to my parents was not to take her out until the cold spell was over. Little did they realise at the time that it wasn’t going to be until March 1963 that it was safe for my sister to leave the house. Her first visit out was with our father. Like myself, he was a Baptist Minister, and one of his regular pastoral visits was to a local care home. There was one elderly lady resident of the home who was completely blind and deaf so it was always very difficult to communicate with her. My father would often sit beside her and gently place his hand in hers, at which point she would clasp his hand tightly, her face would light up and she would start to talk.

So on that day in March 1963 my proud father with his new daughter Rachel showed her off to all the residents in the sitting room in the care home.

As he approached the lady who was blind and deaf he took Rachel in his arms and gently placed her in the lady’s arms. One can only imagine what that moment must have been like as her face lit up with

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The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

the biggest smile, and she cried out, “It’s a baby!”

Her frail hands gently touching the babies hands and face. It must have been a moment of sheer joy.

That’s a story that has been told many times in my family. It is a reminder each Christmas of what the first Christmas must have been like. God had created his world and given human beings freedom of choice and over the years they had become blind and deaf to their creator. God had sent prophets hundreds of year before the birth of Jesus. They had tried to open the eyes of God’s people so that they might come back to God but with limited success.

So God sent his Son into the world as a vulnerable baby, into poverty, in an occupied land so that we humans who had become blind and deaf to him might be able to look God in the face, and in doing so might discover how much he loves us and longs for us to have a restored relationship with him.

That’s why followers of Jesus around the world will be celebrating this year, as they do every year, recognizing that God has come amongst us in human form to demonstrate forgiveness and his amazing love. So, as you get caught up in the rush of parties, shopping and presents this Christmas I invite you to spare a moment to remember that first Christmas when God surprised the world with a baby. “It’s a baby!” but a baby who came for you and has the power to change your life and mine. Christmas brings the peace of God. My prayer is that you will receive that peace this Christmas. Amen.

Blessings on you all Rev Sam King (revsamking@talktalk.net) Design & Computer Graphics

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Calne Evangelical Church New Sunday Service times from 1st January 2018: Family Service 10.30am (crèche available) Evening Service 6.00pm Weekly activities: House Groups Tots 'n' Dots - toddler group Tuesday Club - primary school age Glow - 9-12 years Lazer - senior school age See church notice board or website, or contact us via email calneevangelicalchurch@yahoo.co.uk or ring 821754 for more information. . www.calneevangelicalchurch.org.uk The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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BOOKS

d

A Good Read

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

by Ransom Riggs

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

15-year- old Jacob lives in Florida and dotes on his elderly grandfather, Abe. From the age of six Jacob listened to his stories about his life during the war.

He escaped from monsters in Poland and was sent to live in a mysterious house on an island just off the coast of Wales run by Miss Peregrine. Abe recounts tales of the other children he lived with and shows Jacob what they looked like using a mysterious set of photographs. As Jacob grows up he comes to view the stories as fanciful and made up, and the images as nothing more than trick-photography.

Everything changes when Abe dies in a violent manner and Jacob alone sees the strange creature in the woods that killed him.

Struggling to cope with the death, Jacob discovers a 15-yearold letter from Miss Peregrine and persuades his parents to take him to the Welsh island to put together the pieces of Abe’s life.

Here Jacob discovers that the monsters his grandfather fled from in Poland were more than Nazis and that the stories were maybe not so fanciful after all. The children his grandfather lived with were very peculiar indeed.

Crossword & Sudoku solution page 72

This first novel (and first in a trilogy) is a fascinating read. Spread throughout the book are authentic photos collected by the author which are weaved into the story. Definitely one for older readers (marketed as young adult and rightly so) this original story will have you reaching for book two immediately.

The Runaway Jury

by John Grisham

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

Whether you read legal fiction or not you have most likely heard of John Grisham. One of the biggest selling authors in the world, Grisham was a lawyer before he turned to writing and his expertise is evident in his novels.

As the title may suggest this novel focuses on the jury in a trial. Whilst we like to think that trial byjury is fair and gives both sides an equal chance, what if it was manipulated from the beginning?

A major case is brought against a tobacco company by the widow of a smoker who died from lung cancer.

A verdict against the tobacco company would have huge implications – and cost - for the industry so naturally they are prepared to fight hard. But it would seem that one person is determined to get a guilty verdict. A young man called Nicholas Easter is selected at random for jury service and ends up in the final twelve. However, when a man employed by the tobacco company to find out more about the jurors tries to look into his background, it appears that he has no background and his selection may not have been random after all.

And Easter is out to ensure that he gets the verdict that he wants – no matter what the cost.

Reviews by Willow Coby 86

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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Painting & Decorating Service

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

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for advice and a quote on Cliff Laney 01666-838096 or 07796000927

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01249 816698 / 07904 466587 Age UK Wiltshire registered trader

Plastering, Painting and Decorating, Coving, Artexing All general maintenance. NO JOB TOO SMALL

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www.asplastering.com The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

93

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

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

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Boilers & Cylinders

T: 01249 818811

9 -10 Porte Marsh Road | Calne | SN11 9BW

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

Free Quotes

Advanced City & Guilds All work Guaranteed Call Dave on

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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 94

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

Special Offer for NEW CUSTOMERS in DECEMBER

BOILER SERVICING from £60 Price inclusive of VAT (excludes parts)

CJ STEEL

All aspects of domestic & commercial installations

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• Oil, Gas, & Solid Fuel Heating Systems • Installation & Service • Bathroom Installation and Tiling • All Types of Leadwork • AGA-RAYBURN SPECIALIST Very Reliable & Friendly Services

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Aquarius Plumbing Steve’s Appliance Services

Fridges - Freezers - in Cookers - Microwaves - Dryers Specialising Full Bathroom

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call Darren Jackson on 07817 052467 Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk

Travertine • Limestone • Marble • Mosaics • Porcelain • Ceramics

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Professional Dog Grooming Environment • Professional Floor & Wall Tiling Award winning friendly salon providing • Specialists in fitting Natural Stone your dog, with a caring, relaxing and • Fully Installed Bespokeexperience.

Wet Rooms and Bathrooms professional • Tile and Stone Floor Installation/Restorations Handstripping & Microchipping available.

• Comprehensive Electrical Underfloor Heating Installation Collection & delivery available within the local area for a small charge.

T: 01249 824704 M: 07798 907852 E: info@afktiling.co.uk For an appointment call Lucy:

Licensed Boarding Kennels & Cattery.

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Robert 01249 890492 mobile 07825 758705 The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

95

BUILDING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Tel/Fax 01249 821936 Mobile: 07877 055680 Email: info@stevesapplianceservices.co.uk 96

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

The care and comfort of your pets is our business

Replace it with an automatic insulated roller shutter.

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Win more precious space in your garage.

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Enjoy the luxury of an automatic garage door.

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

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

The Town Crier Magazine | DECEMBER 2017

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS AUCTIONEERS Wessex Auction Rooms ....................... 108 BEDS Elite Beds .............................................. 45 BOOKEEPING/ACCOUNTANTS AMS Accounting..................................... 31 Duncan Joyce......................................... 39 VFL Business Support............................. 85 BUILDERS/BUILDING SUPPLIES AM Chivers Building............................... 89 All Home Improvements........................ 88 Chalford Building Supplies..................... 90 Corsham Landscapes and Building......... 91 Dearing Construction............................. 89 Downland Construction......................... 88 Ged Byrne.............................................. 89 Ian Lucas Groundworks.......................... 89 Prior & Company Building...................... 88 Tiger Plant Hire...................................... 76 Tim Lee Building.................................... 89 CAR REPAIR/VEHICLE SERVICES AM Autocare.......................................... 73 Cross Country Tyres................................. 75 MW Services.......................................... 75 Sawmills Garage.................................... 75 CARE/CARE HOMES Prestige Nursing..................................... 45 Hill House............................................... 41 Kingston House...................................... 49 CARPENTER/JOINER Contours Carpentry................................ 89 CHIMNEY SWEEP Cleansweep............................................ 96 Hubands................................................ 97 CHRISTMAS TREE Charlton Park Estates............................. 19 CHURCHES Hope Church............................................. 7 Calne Evangelical Church ...................... 85 CLEANING/DOMESTIC SERVICES Cleanstart.............................................. 91 Houseproud........................................... 87 iKlean..................................................... 49 Ovenclean ............................................ 91 Prune and Broom................................... 87 COMPUTER/IT/GRAPHICS/WEB Calne Computer Services ...................... 47 PC Hospital............................................. 91 CONSERVATORY Greenspace UK......................................... 9 Weatherguard........................................ 99 CURTAINS/BLINDS Goldmans Interiors................................. 17 DAMP Eaton Electrical...................................... 93 DANCING Dancing Academy.................................. 18 Quicksteps.............................................. 40 DISCO Disco Mania .......................................... 47

Electrical Man........................................ 92 Electrical and General Maintaining........ 92 Grants Electrical..................................... 26 Nick Pocock Electrical............................. 92 O and J Electrical.................................... 92 WEC......................................................... 5 ESTATE AGENTS Alan Hawkins......................................... 37 FISHING TACKLE TK Tackle................................................ 23 FITNESS/RUNNING Calne Smartt.................................... 42, 44 Suart Dinwoodie.................................... 61 FLOORING/CARPET SERVICES BSB Flooring ......................................... 72 Cleanstart............................................ 104 George Taylor Carpet Fitter ................... 72 iKlean..................................................... 49 Total Carpets & Flooring......................... 37 FLORISTS Shirley’s Florists .................................... 25 FOOD & DRINK Allington Farm Shop.............................. 53 Barbury Inn............................................ 51 Calne Tandoori....................................... 53 Divine on the Green............................... 12 Duke, Hilmarton..................................... 55 Foodalicious........................................... 53 Lansdowne Arms................................... 55 Lysley Arms............................................ 56 Oakmead Clinic...................................... 58 Pear Tree at Purton................................. 52 White Hart............................................. 56 FUNERAL DIRECTORS Johnson & Daltrey.................................. 47 Matthews of Malmesbury...................... 43 Odette.................................................... 29 Tony Warren ......................................... 49 E Wootten & Son.................................... 35 GARDENING/FENCING/LANDSCAPING Acres Ahead........................................... 81 AD Paving & Walling.............................. 81 Corsham Landscapes and Building......... 91 Crapper Compost.................................... 79 Dave Newton Fencing............................ 77 ES Earthmoving Services........................ 81 Garden Room......................................... 81 Graham Fox............................................ 77 Ian Marsh............................................... 79 Jon Burton............................................. 77 MH Tree Services.................................... 77 MR Fencing............................................ 79 Prune and Broom................................... 87 Tiger Plant Hire...................................... 76 Turners Landscapes................................ 77

HEATING/LOGS H&G Sims............................................... 93 Skyline................................................. 102 HOME & INTERIORS Goldmans Interiors................................. 17 Sarah’s Soft Furnishings ........................ 85 Sassy Chic............................................... 23 HOUSE CLEARANCE Crapper.................................................. 72 HYPNOTHERAPY Hypnotherapy of Calne........................... 61 KITCHENS/BATHROOMS Accent Kitchens...................................... 39 Active Kitchens & Bathrooms................. 37 AFK Tiling............................................... 93 Aquarius Plumbing & Heating................ 93 Dream Doors ........................................... 2 Kitchen Makeover ................................. 37 Philip Viles............................................. 87 Premier Kitchen Doors............................ 47 Total Bedrooms/Kitchens/Bathrooms..... 41 INSURANCE Allied Wessex......................................... 27 LEGAL SERVICES / WILL WRITING Awdry, Bailey Douglas........................... 13 Bevirs....................................................... 3 Goodwills............................................... 39 LIGHTING Lightways.............................................. 25 LOCKS & ALARMS Alan Key Locks ....................................... 91 MOBILITY Mobility Store........................................ 29 MODELS/TOYS Modelmaniacs....................................... 23 MORTGAGES & EQUITY RELEASE Aspirations............................................. 24 Providus................................................. 99 MICROLIGHT FLIGHTS Wiltshire Microlight Centre ................... 85 OPTICIAN Outside Clinic ........................................ 15

GOLF COURSE Woodbridge Park Golf Club.................... 16

PAINTERS/DECORATORS/PLASTERERS ACM Decorating..................................... 93 Alan Clifford Painter & Decorator............ 93 AS Plastering.......................................... 93 Cliff Laney.............................................. 93 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 95 Sassy Chic............................................... 23

GIFTS/JEWELLERY Bazaar Gifts & Cards .............................. 23 Deacons................................................. 19 Knees Home & Electrical........................ 21 GUTTERING Cleanstart............................................ 104 Guttering Problems ............................. 104

EDUCATION/CHILDCARE Little Foxes............................................. 31

HAIR/BEAUTY/NAILS HM Hairdressing..................................... 11 LA Barber............................................... 63 Mill Beauty............................................. 59 Pamplemouse........................................ 59

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HEALTH CARE/FOOT CARE Calne Acupuncture................................. 61 Fion Stubbs............................................ 61 Foot Health Care..................................... 63 Harmony Holistics.................................. 59 Malmesbury Osteopathy........................ 25 Oakmead Clinic...................................... 58

GATES Compass Security................................... 27

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES/REPAIRS Calne Appliances.................................... 43 Knees Home & Electrical........................ 21 Steves Appliances.................................. 96

ELECTRICIANS/ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES Calne Appliances.................................... 43 Eaton Electrical...................................... 92

HANDY MAN Cleanstart.............................................. 91 Ged Byrne.............................................. 89 Odd Jobs................................................ 89 Philip Viles............................................. 87

PETS/CATS/DOGS Animals at Home.................................... 70 Corton Kennels....................................... 69 Fern Farm Kennels.................................. 69 Grittenham Grooming............................ 70 Hobsons Regal Hounds........................... 69 Shirleys Pet Shop................................... 70 Thameswood Vets.................................. 67

PEST CONTROL Wiltshire Pest Control ........................... 72 PLUMBING/HEATING/SUPPLIES ABC Plumbing........................................ 95 Active Plumbing Supplies...................... 94 Aquarius Plumbing & Heating................ 95 Max Colbourne Oil & Gas........................ 94 DPS Plumbing & Heating....................... 94 F.S. Plumbing & Heating........................ 94 Graham Gas & Plumbing Services.......... 94 H&G Sims............................................... 95 Plumbing 4U.......................................... 94 RTC Plastering & Plumbing..................... 95 Steve Cowley.......................................... 95 Skyline................................................... 96 RETIREMENT LIVING Abbeyfield ............................................. 35 ROOFING/TILING/THATCHING David Beal Thatcher............................... 97 Daylan Gleed Roofing............................. 97 Marden Roofing..................................... 97 White Horse Roofing.............................. 97 TATTOOS Cosmic Rocket........................................ 25 TAXI Calne's Half Price Taxi............................. 75 TILING AFK Tiling............................................. 101 TRAVEL/HOLIDAYS Marc Fitchett.......................................... 66 Pebbles Travel........................................ 64 TV/SATELLITE Aerial Services ...................................... 43 VISITOR ATTRACTIONS/VENUES Chippenham Museum............................ 33 Hope Church Pantomime......................... 7 Woodbridge Park Golf Club.................... 42 VETS George Veterinary Hospital.................... 69 Hale Veterinary Group............................ 45 Thameswood......................................... 67 WATER SOFTENERS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 87 WEIGHT LOSS Oakmead Clinic...................................... 58 Slimming World .................................... 63 WET ROOMS Wiltshire Wet Rooms.............................. 87 WILL WRITING Goodwills............................................... 43 WINDOW CLEANERS Elmers Window Cleaning Servs. ............ 87 WINDOWS & DOORS Greenspace UK......................................... 9 Weatherguard........................................ 92

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DECEMBER 2017

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The Town Crier

N l PETS 2017

e | DECEMBER

1

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 | DECEMBER 2017

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